Getting around Hong Konb

Question

We will be in Hong Kong for 3 days. What is the best way and value for money to get around? Hop on hop off Bus, Rail or foot? What is the weather like in April? We are staying in Kowloon

Answer

Hong Kong is compact and very well connected, so getting around efficiently during a 3-day stay is straightforward. Since you are staying in Kowloon, you are already in a central area with easy access to public transport, shopping, and dining.

Transportation options:

MTR (Mass Transit Railway): This is the fastest, most convenient, and cost-effective way to get around Hong Kong, including both Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Trains are frequent, clean, and air-conditioned. You can easily reach popular attractions such as Central, Victoria Peak, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Mong Kok.
Octopus Card: Purchase an Octopus card for easy payment on MTR, buses, trams, and even some ferries and convenience stores. For 3 days, it’s more convenient and cost-effective than buying single tickets repeatedly.
Double-decker trams (Ding Ding): A scenic and fun way to explore Hong Kong Island at a slower pace. Great for kids and photo opportunities. Less practical for long distances.
Buses: Useful for routes not covered by the MTR. Some buses are scenic, especially routes crossing Kowloon to New Territories or along the coast.
Hop-on Hop-off buses: They can be convenient for tourists who want a guided, sightseeing-focused experience. However, for only 3 days, using the MTR plus a few trams or ferries is usually faster and cheaper.
Ferries: Star Ferry between Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon) and Central (Hong Kong Island) is a must-do experience and very inexpensive. It’s also scenic for photography.
Walking: Many attractions in Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Central areas are walkable. For short distances, it’s often quicker than taking transport and allows you to explore streets, markets, and small alleys.

Suggested approach:

Use the MTR for major transfers and longer distances.
Walk within neighborhoods to explore markets, shops, and street food.
Take Star Ferry for one scenic cross-harbor ride.
Optional: Ride a tram or hop-on-hop-off bus for a fun sightseeing experience if you want a more relaxed pace.

Weather in April:

Average temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). Comfortable for walking and sightseeing.
Humidity starts increasing, but it’s generally pleasant and sunny with occasional light rain showers.
Bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings/evenings and an umbrella just in case.

In summary, for 3 days staying in Kowloon, the most value-for-money and efficient way to get around is a combination of MTR, walking, and a few scenic rides (Star Ferry, tram). Hop-on Hop-off buses are optional and more for sightseeing than practicality.