22 hr layover (overnight). Where to stay, what to do

Question

Hi everyone.

Hubby and I have along 22:30hr layover in Hong Kong this coming Monday and our first time in Hong Kong. We arrive at 5:30pm and depart the following day at 4pm.

Questions:

- Where would be the best place to stay in the city that would allow us to explore a little (shopping, sightseeing, grab lunch) but also close enough that we can catch the train or bus back to the airport?

- is it best to catch a bus or take the train in and out of the city?

- Any hotel recommendations say $250AUD for the night?

- what time would we need to be back at the airport to catch our 4pm flight?

Answer

With a 22.5-hour layover in Hong Kong, you have enough time to stay overnight in the city, explore a bit, and still comfortably catch your next flight. Here’s a detailed breakdown for your plans.

Best Area to Stay:

Since your time is limited and you want to explore sightseeing, shopping, and grab lunch, staying on Hong Kong Island or in Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon) is ideal. These areas are central, have easy access to transport, and are vibrant with restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon): Close to the Star Ferry, Harbour City Mall, and walking distance to Nathan Road shopping. Convenient for catching the Airport Express from Kowloon Station.
Central / Admiralty (Hong Kong Island): Good for first-time sightseeing, nearby luxury shops, and close to the Peak Tram. You can reach Hong Kong Station for the Airport Express.

Transport Options to/from Airport:

Airport Express: Fastest and most convenient for a short stay. From Hong Kong Station or Kowloon Station, the journey takes 24–28 minutes. Trains run every 10–12 minutes until around midnight. You can also use the Airport Express bus if arriving late at night.
City Buses / Shuttle Buses: Cheaper but slower (45–60 minutes depending on traffic). Less ideal if you want to maximize sightseeing time.

Hotel Recommendations (~$250 AUD / night):

Holiday Inn Express Hong Kong Kowloon East: Affordable, clean, and near MTR stations.
ibis Hong Kong Central & Sheung Wan: Compact, central, good for first-time visitors.
Hotel ICON (Tsim Sha Tsui): Slightly higher end but offers excellent service and location for sightseeing.
Other mid-range options in Tsim Sha Tsui or Central: Novotel Century Hong Kong, Eaton HK, or City Garden Hotel.

Suggested Itinerary:

Arrive 5:30 PM: Clear immigration, collect luggage, and take Airport Express or taxi to hotel.
Evening: Explore Tsim Sha Tsui promenade, Victoria Harbour view, grab dinner at local restaurants or street food.
Next morning: Quick breakfast, shopping at Harbour City or local markets, or short sightseeing (Central, Peak Tram, or Man Mo Temple).
Leave for airport: For a 4 PM flight, aim to arrive at the airport by 1:30–2 PM. This allows 2–2.5 hours for check-in, security, and boarding.

Additional Tips:

Consider using a taxi or Airport Express to maximize sightseeing time. Late evening taxis are convenient and reasonably priced for short distances.
Pack light or use airport luggage storage if needed to move quickly in the city.
Check hotel check-in/out policies; some hotels offer early check-in or late check-out for transit passengers.

In summary, Tsim Sha Tsui or Central is the most convenient area for a 22-hour layover. The Airport Express is the fastest option for travel to/from the airport, and a mid-range hotel within $250 AUD will keep you centrally located for sightseeing, shopping, and dining.

22 hr layover (overnight). Where to stay, what to do

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