Best things to do in Hong Kong for free

Some of Hong Kong’s best attractions prove that experiencing the city doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. From embracing the great outdoors and exploring traditional sights to soaking up one of the world’s most iconic skylines, these are just a handful of the best free things to do in Hong Kong that any visitor can enjoy.

Avenue of Stars 

Best for: movie buffs

Hong Kong’s answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Avenue of Stars offers an accessible introduction to the city’s storied movie industry, once the third largest in the world. Along the waterfront promenade, you’ll encounter the handprints of local cinema legends, etched into the handrails, while QR codes link directly to clips showing the greats in action. At the end, you’ll find a prime selfie spot: a 2.5-metre-tall bronze statue of one of the city’s greatest screen icons, Bruce Lee.

Dragon’s Back 

Best for: hiking

As well as being home to more skyscrapers than any other city (596 at the last count), Hong Kong also boasts nearly as many named peaks spread across 25 country parks. In total, around 40 per cent of the territory is protected countryside that can be explored via a network of more than 130 officially maintained hiking trails. There’s a multitude of hikes suitable for people with a moderate level of fitness, but it’s hard to beat the famed 8.5km Dragon’s Back trail — named after the scaly spine of the animal its crowning ridge resembles.

Mong Kok 

Best for: browsing and old-school charm

With the city’s population spread across all corners of the territory, Mong Kok is the natural meeting spot for people from all walks of life. Its narrow streets are crammed with shops and services meeting every need you ever thought of, as well as a lot of free street entertainment. The area also retains a down-to-earth atmosphere, equal parts everyday grit, colourful flair and enduring tradition. 

Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront 

Best for: skyline views

At dusk, journey to the southernmost stretch of the Kowloon Peninsula and hang out in the waterside plaza marked by the historic Former Kowloon-Canton Railway Clock Tower. Residents and visitors alike gather here to enjoy unrivalled views across Victoria Harbour to Hong Kong Island, where hundreds of skyscrapers rise across the landscape. The skyline is especially dramatic at night, as the lights twinkle on the water. Just make sure you get the best vantage point for this unmissable sight. 

Repulse Bay

Best for: a beach day

Beyond its many peaks to climb, Hong Kong’s nautical maze of 20 inhabited islands means there are miles of craggy coastline and plenty of beaches to discover. The territory’s 100-plus beaches range from secluded stretches to chic seaside hangouts with all the amenities. Leading the pack is Repulse Bay, on the southern edge of Hong Kong Island. While the well-to-do call this neighbourhood home, anyone is welcome to claim their own blissful patch of sand and enjoy life in the sunshine. 

Yau Ma Tei

Best for: neon heritage

Your typical vision of Hong Kong after dark might be rain-soaked streets glittering with neon reflections. While regulation changes have seen these signs slowly being phased out, many of the city’s remaining old-school neon signs can still be found if you know where to look. The Yau Ma Tei neighbourhood is home to some of the best-preserved remaining examples: look out for the Tak Hing Sea Products sign located on Woosung Street, or the neon sign at the heart of the colourful entranceway to Wo Hing Victory Mahjong Gaming, at 385 Nathan Road.

Chi Lin Nunnery

Best for: traditional Chinese gardens

In Hong Kong, quiet reflection is never far away. Across the city, hundreds of temples, shrines and monasteries serve as places where traditional rites are routinely observed. Find a moment of peace at Chi Lin Nunnery, which sits beside the equally tranquil Nan Lian Garden. Opened in 2006, the garden faithfully follows classical Tang dynasty design styles, with a soothing network of curved paths leading through a serene landscape of sculpted trees, calm ponds and ornamental rocks. Though modest in size, it’s easy to lose an hour here in quiet contemplation.