Whether youāre gliding across the harbor on a historic ferry or soaring through city tunnels on the MTR, traveling through Hong Kong is not just convenientāitās part of the adventure. With a seamless blend of tradition and technology, Hong Kongās transport network offers tourists efficient, affordable, and thrilling ways to explore the city.
šļø Mass Transit Railway (MTR)
The MTR is Hong Kongās backbone, connecting major districts, attractions, and neighborhoods with clean, modern trains and bilingual signage.
- Covers Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, the New Territories, and Lantau Island
- Trains run from early morning until past midnight
- Octopus Card accepted for all rides
- Tourist passes available, including Airport Express + unlimited travel options
š« Purchase transport passes and reloadable Octopus Cards online from trusted vendors like Klook before arrival.
š¬ Airport Express
The fastest way from Hong Kong International Airport to the city:
- 24-minute ride to Central Station
- Stops at Tsing Yi, Kowloon, and Hong Kong Station
- Free shuttle buses from urban stations to major hotels
- Accepts Octopus Card and offers Tourist Travel Passes
š« Book Airport Express tickets in advance via platforms like Klook for added convenience and potential savings.
š Buses & Minibuses
Over 700 routes crisscross Hong Kong, many offering scenic views:
- Double-decker buses provide great sightseeing above street level
- Green minibuses follow fixed routes and accept Octopus
- Red minibuses are flexible but less predictable (cash fares)
Free mobile apps such as āKMBā and āCitybus NWFBā help navigate routes and schedules.
š¢ Ferries
Traveling by boat offers unforgettable views and easy access to islands:
- Star Ferry crosses Victoria Harbour daily for under HK$5āa nostalgic ride between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central
- Ferries connect to Lantau, Lamma, and Cheung Chau for island escapes
- Regular schedules and comfortable seating make it ideal for day trips
š Taxis & Ride-Hailing
Taxis are widely available and affordable, with three color-coded types:
Taxi Type | Service Area | Color |
---|---|---|
Urban | HK Island & Kowloon | Red |
New Territories | North & Suburban Areas | Green |
Lantau | Lantau Island only | Blue |
- Fares start at ~HK$29
- Cash preferred; some accept Octopus or cards
- Popular taxi-hailing apps:
- HKTaxi
- Uber Hong Kong
- Amap
- DiDi
š± Download your preferred ride-hailing app before arrival to book in advance or avoid street-side waits.
š” Scenic Rides & Quirky Modes
Beyond the basics, Hong Kongās unique transport experiences add extra magic to your journey:
- Trams (āDing Dingā): Vintage double-decker trams glide through northern Hong Kong Island for just HK$2.80āideal for slow sightseeing.
- Mid-Levels Escalator: The worldās longest outdoor escalator transports commuters uphill while connecting vibrant neighborhoods filled with shops and eateries.
- Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car: Soar above Lantauās hills to reach the Big Buddha and Ngong Ping Village with panoramic sea and mountain views.
š« Book priority or glass-bottom cable car tickets through Klook for a seamless experience.
š Peak Tram
The historic Peak Tram offers a steep and scenic ascent to Victoria Peak, one of Hong Kongās most iconic views.
- Recently upgraded with new carriages and modern stations
- Connects Central to the Peak with dramatic skyline views
- Operates daily from 7:00am to 10:00pm
š« Purchase Peak Tram ticketsāincluding combo packages with Sky Terrace accessāfrom Klook
š Travel Smart
With the Octopus Card in hand and transport apps on your phone, youāll find exploring Hong Kong to be effortless. Efficient, reliable, and designed with both locals and visitors in mind, this city’s transport network connects skyscrapers to seashores, ancient temples to urban marketsāall within minutes.
So load up your Octopus card, pick your seat with a view, and explore.hk one ride at a time.
