Is Hong Kong Expensive to Visit?

“Is Hong Kong Expensive?” is a common question I receive from readers, specifically those contemplating and/or planning a trip to ‘Asia’s World City’. Without sounding too much like a clickbait YouTube thumbnail (and failing), the answer might actually shock you, as Hong Kong may be more affordable than you initially might think. 

However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of the weeds as several key expenses can ‘break the bank’ (so to speak).

Below, I’ll walk you through the cost of travel in Hong Kong, using anecdotes and personal experiences from my nearly seven years living here. You’ll walk away with a sound understanding of prices in terms of specific items but also experiences, things, and other categories of travel essentials.

You’ll also get a rough feel of exactly how much your trip to Hong Kong may cost. So, without further ado, how expensive is Hong Kong? 

Pale Ale Travel Note: As people from all over the world are reading this post, I’ve decided to use Hong Kong Dollars (HKD/HK$) as the main currency for all costs – just to keep things simple. 

Explaining the Cost of Travel in Hong Kong

No trip to Hong Kong is complete without seeing this view from Victoria Peak!

Look, I fully understand the trepidation and uncertainty about traveling to what has frequently been cited as one of the most expensive cities on Earth. 

I’ll be honest with you, costs can add up quickly if you aren’t careful or strategic. But that isn’t meant to fearmonger or deter you from visiting this incredible city, as there surely are exceptions to the rule. 

Further, what if I were to tell you that BUT FOR one or two key expenses, the cost of travel in Hong Kong may actually be significantly cheaper than cities like London, New York City, Singapore, and Sydney, particularly on the eating, drinking, and activity front?

But Big Body, if what you’re saying is true, then where does this reputation come from? 

For starters, only (roughly) 25% of all land in Hong Kong is habitable, viable for commercial development, and able to be ‘built up’, so expensive (and exorbitant) housing and property costs are at the root of this reputation. Supply and demand. The less space there is, the higher the prices. 

Second, as a city with a substantial expat presence, Western and international-style amenities, bars, cafes, and restaurants, along with specific areas (such as SoHo and Mid-Levels) that cater to this demographic have contributed to the city’s image as a prohibitively costly destination. 

Hotels, Hostels, & Airbnb

When it comes to accommodation in Hong Kong, this will almost certainly be your biggest expense. This especially rings true after those several dark years when we had to stay inside. 

In major areas of Hong Kong, specifically Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, you will find most standard 2 to 4-star hotels (a single room) beginning at HK$550 to HK$800 per night, sometimes less. Luxury hotels typically clock in around HK$1500 to HK$4000 per night. 

Mini hotels and capsule hotels can generally be found for roughly HK$250 to HK$400 per night, while hostels clock in just slightly cheaper at HK$150 to HK$250 per night. 

Prices will trend on the lower end of these estimates in off-peak tourism months and those without major holidays. For example, January, March, May, June, July, August, and September are typically considered ‘low season’ for tourism and can be a fantastic time to snag a quality (or luxury) hotel at a reduced rate. 

A view from the pool at one of my favorite affordable hotels in the city – the Bishop Lei International House.

Further, a good rule of thumb is that the farther you stay away from Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, the more affordable the accommodation, with an approximately 20-30% decrease in Kowloon areas like Mongkok and Jordan and a 30-50% decrease in the New Territories (Sha Tin, Tsing Yi, Tsuen Wan).  

Hong Kong is unlike a good chunk of other cities and countries I’ve traveled to, where you can generally book an Airbnb at a semi-reasonable and affordable price, especially compared to what the apartment and/or room rents for the long term. 

Expect to pay roughly 50% to 100% more than what an apartment, room, or home would normally rent in Hong Kong. It’s an incredibly tiny Airbnb market as well which undeniably has a significant impact on rental prices. 

If I had to put a general range of accommodation in Hong Kong for the majority of travelers, I’d estimate it to range from HK$400 to HK$900 per person, per night.  

Pale Ale Travel Tip: As I’ve had to “apartment hunt” several times in Hong Kong, I’ve spent a considerable amount of time in hotels while I searched. Here is a list of 5 of my favorites and what I consider to be the most affordable hotels in Hong Kong. 

Transportation

For a local experience, make sure to hop on a minibus!

Hong Kong is one of the most well-connected cities for transportation in the world. It is also one of the most affordable.

From the second you land at Hong Kong International Airport, you know you’ve landed in a city with efficient, punctual, and affordable transportation when you hop on the Airport Express into the City Center for just HK$105 for a single journey adult ticket and HK$205 for a round-trip ticket. 

The Mass Transit Railway (MTR), a system that includes heavy rail, light rail, and buses, and spans nearly 180 stations, covers all corners of the city, meaning nowhere is off limits. MTR fares range anywhere from HK$3.50 to HK$51, with the latter (or close to) only coming into play for long-distance, cross-harbor rides. 

There may be times when taking a taxi is the most convenient and/or logical mode of transport. All taxis start at roughly HK$30 and increase around HK$2 per 200 meters and/or 1 minute of waiting. Or, maybe you want to experience a piece of true Hong Kong history and unhurriedness by taking one of the many trams on Hong Kong Island – adult fares cost just HK$3. 

Finally, let’s not forget my number one gem in the city – the Star Ferry. Cross harbor ferry rides cost just HK$4 to HK$6.5 per single trip, which is criminally underrated and the best way to see Hong Kong’s skyline. 

Pale Ale Travel Tip: If you’re big on ride-hailing apps like Uber and Grab, don’t forget to read my article answering ‘Is Uber in Hong Kong?’. It walks through everything you need to know about ride-hailing in the city along with other navigational tips and tricks. 

All in all, setting aside a transportation budget of HK$70 to HK$100 per day per person is prudent, understanding that costs can well exceed that (HK$150-$300-plus) for someone taking multiple or long-distance trips, or frequently using taxis/Ubers. It can also be significantly lower should you choose to walk and/or stick to one particular area each day.

To put things into perspective, my morning commute via MTR from Sheung Wan to Wan Chai (several stops on the Island Land) costs around HK$12 for a round trip fare. However, when I travel from Central to Sai Kung (New Territories) to visit my father every other Friday, it costs me roughly HK$50 round trip, totaling over HK$30 in MTR costs and HK$20 for the minibus. 

Simply put, transportation costs will be the least of your worries in Hong Kong, especially now that you’ve gotten the accommodation costs out of the way. 

Make Sure to Grab an Octopus Card

The largest transportation expenditure for tourists will be HK$150 for the popular contactless smart value payment ‘Octopus card’, which can be picked up at the airport, MTR stations, and major convenience stores across the city. 

I call it the ‘largest expenditure’ because it is a pre-loaded card that comes up with an initial top-up value of HK$100 and a HK$50 refundable deposit. You can use the Octopus card for nearly every form of transportation in the city along with select restaurants, convenience stores, vending machines, retail outlets, and more. 

While you don’t have to pick up an Octopus card to travel around/navigate the city, I strongly recommend doing so as it really takes out the worry of needing to purchase single-ticket journeys at MTR station kiosks or gathering up change for bus rides. 

Pale Ale Travel Tip: Don’t forget to read my essential Hong Kong packing list, which includes everything I’ve forgotten over the years.

Food & Drink (Local & International)

Insane roast goose from Kam’s Roast Goose.

Hong Kong is a beauty in the way that food and drink can be as expensive as you want it to be and as cheap as you want it to be. For me, it’s typically the former. You might have guessed that since my nickname is ‘Big Body’. I also love a good pint or six.  

Whether you hit up one of Hong Kong’s iconic cha chaan tengs (Hong Kong-style cafes/diners), dai pai dongs (open-air food stalls), siu mei (Cantonese BBQ) haunts, cooked food markets, or dim sum institutions, a normal person can easily stuff themselves for less than HK$200 to HK$300 per day. Both local and international fast food chains, along with the beloved ‘two-dish-rice’ canteens, can be enjoyed for as little as HK$20 to HK$50. 

A favorite spot out on Cheung Chao for cart noodles – 多多麵 (Dao Dao Noodles).

Specialty drinks like coffee, bubble tea, and juices typically clock in anywhere from HK$25 to HK$40, which can sneakily increase your budget if you aren’t careful. 

Western and international restaurants offer great lunch specials for HK$100 to HK$200, with dinners costing a good chunk more – ex. HK$300 to HK$500 per person. For example, a pizza, several appetizers, and dessert – shared by two people – with non-alcoholic drinks, could reasonably clock in from HK$500 to $800. 

For fine-dining and internationally acclaimed restaurants, prices can easily exceed HK$1200 to HK$2500-plus per person. 

Expect a 10% service charge tacked onto most bills as well. Because of this, tipping in Hong Kong is generally not expected. 

Pale Ale Travel Tip: If you really want a taste of high society and the finer things of life, i.e. some of the best Michelin star restaurants in Asia, but don’t want to break the bank, go for lunch. Many fine-dining restaurants offer a 3 to 5-course lunch set (or more) at just a fraction of the cost of what you would pay for dinner. In my opinion, Hong Kong is home to some of the most affordable, bang-for-your-buck luxury lunch specials in the world. 

Mizunara: The Library – one of my favorite whiskey bars in the city.

Alcohol really is where you notice a significant dent in the budget as standard cocktail prices range anywhere from HK$80 to HK$200. I’d realistically say that most bars and restaurants in central areas cost HK$120 to HK$160 per cocktail and/or mixed drink. Standard wines and champagne by the glass clock in from HK$70 to HK$130 (bottles are always more economical in my opinion!). Beers are more moderately priced at these establishments (but still high by my standards) and cost HK$60 to HK$90.

Hong Kong is home to some fantastic happy hours which can see prices greatly reduced for each, so keep an eye out and/or consider doing your ‘drinking/bar hopping’ from early afternoon until 7 PM or 8 PM. Or, consider picking up a few beers, ciders, or mixed drinks from the local 7-Eleven for HK$15 to HK$35 per can/bottle. 

Pale Ale Travel: As a millennial, one of my favorite activities is the boozy brunch. They also happen to be a fantastic deal in Hong Kong (HK$600 to HK$1300), as they include free-flow booze for 2 to 3 hours, unlimited appetizers, and a single main and dessert. Check out my post breaking down the best free-flow brunches in Hong Kong. 

How Much Things Cost to Do in Hong Kong

Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery are two of my favorite places to go in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is incredibly affordable and often free when it comes to things to do. 

Unlike in Japan, where it generally costs money to enter most temples, shrines, and gardens (albeit a negligible fee), admission is free in Hong Kong. Spots like Wong Tai Sin Temple, Man Mo Temple, Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden, Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, and Wan Chai Pak Tai Temple, are all free. 

One of the most epic hikes during a Typhoon 8 – Mui Wo to Discovery Bay (Tiger’s Head).

Walks along the Victoria Harbour promenades, both Hong Kong Island and Kowloon side, free. Some of the best hiking trails in all of Asia, like Lion Rock, Buffalo Hill, Sunset Peak, and Dragon’s Back – all free. Beaches like Repulse Bay, Big Wave Bay, Shek O, Upper/Lower Cheung Sha, and Ham Tin – free. 

A walk or hike up to The Peak (and High West) for a view of the best skyline in the world is also free, while a journey up via the Peak Tram costs HK$80 to HK$110.

Exploring outlying islands like Cheung Chau (ex. Po Tsai Cave), Lamma Island, and Peng Chau – free. The only cost is a HK$30 to HK$50 ferry ride!

An exhibit at M+ in the West Kowloon Cultural District.

Many museums and heritage-arts venues, like the Hong Kong Art Museum, Hong Kong Museum of History, and Tai Kwun, are also free. Admission to museums like the Hong Kong Science Museum, Hong Kong Palace Museum, and the Hong Kong Maritime Museum range from HK$20 to HK$50.  

The HK$4 to HK$6.5 Star Ferry cost? The best value for activity in the city (in my humble opinion). 

The Big Buddha/Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car and Hong Kong Disneyland are two of the ‘pricier’ things to do in Hong Kong, clocking in from HK$250 to HK$350 for the former and over HK$600 for the happiest place on earth. Both are well worth it by my standards. A snack bender on Temple Street or a shopping spree at the Ladies’ Market, as much or as little as you want to spend on food and souvenirs!

Frankly, I think you could come to Hong Kong and accomplish a staggering amount without ever actually paying for admission/entrance to anything. For me, the main draw of the city is its proximity to incredible nature. And nature is always free, baby. 

The only real costs would be transportation and food and drink while there!

Note: If you do decide on a Macau day trip (or night trip), which is popular in Hong Kong itineraries, a round-trip high-speed ferry ride will run you HK$300 to HK$400 round trip, excluding any activities (like gambling) you might get into while over there.

Pale Ale Travel Tip: If you want to get out there and see Hong Kong’s slept-on natural landscapes, beaches, and mountains, make sure to check out my post breaking down the best hikes in Hong Kong for all skill levels!

Additional Hong Kong Expenses

I walk this route home from Wan Chai to Central almost every day of the week!

There are some additional expenses you may run into or require when coming to Hong Kong. 

I know an essential for myself when touching down in any city is staying connected, so I usually pick up a country-specific SIM (ex. Prepaid SIM) and/or eSIM. 3 to 7-day SIM prices in Hong Kong may range from HK$50 to HK$150 and can be picked up at the Airport or convenience stores like 7-Eleven or Circle K. 

Luckily, most Hong Kong banks/ATMs do not charge withdrawal fees. However, keep in mind that these may be charged by your home bank/provider. 

Further, gifts, souvenirs, and other goods can significantly add to the budget, especially if you’re in the market for luxury, designer, or handcrafted items. 

Pale Ale Travel Tip: If you need to exchange money at a fair/honest rate in Hong Kong, I’ve got you covered. Make sure to check out my post detailing my go-to spot to exchange currency in Hong Kong. No one should get ripped off and lose exorbitant amounts of money due to a dishonest currency exchange. 

The Most Expensive (& Cheapest) Areas in Hong Kong

Yes, Bakehouse’s egg tarts are worth the wait but my favorite is actually over at Macau Restaurant in Tsim Sha Tsui. No line at all.

When traveling to Hong Kong, there are specific areas that are more expensive and more affordable than others:

• Central: The priciest area in all of Hong Kong, home to 5-star hotels, international banks, financial institutions, and top-tier dining. Because of its prominence and central location, there are however plenty of affordable and quality lodging, dining, and drinking options as well. 
• Sheung Wan: A trendy, vibrant neighborhood that is an intersection of old Hong Kong and the new. Known for its artsy vibe, cool cafes, Cooked Food market, and boutique hotels, it’s more affordable than Central and still puts you right in the middle of the action.
• Tsim Sha Tsui (TST): Packed with luxury hotels like The Peninsula, along with hostels and what some consider the cheapest accommodation in the city (in Chungking Mansions), and everything in between, TST provides great value for mid-range hotels, local restaurants, and even world-renowned cocktail lounges and bars.
• Wan Chai: An eclectic area blending nightlife, local markets, and mid-range hotels (with several 5-star institutions), Wan Chai is considerably more affordable than Central and what I consider to be one of the last bastions of ‘Old Hong Kong’ on Hong Kong Island. 
• North Point/Quarry Bay: Possibly the best bang-for-your-buck area on Hong Kong Island where 3 to 4-star hotels clock in at extremely reasonable prices – and you’re only a 20-minute MTR ride from Central. Home to wet markets, noodle shops, and cha chaan tengs, the North Point/Quarry Bay area is suited for more budget-conscious travelers or those who want a quieter, more local experience. 

Keep in mind that the further away from Central and Tsim Sha Tsui you are, the more affordable it will be on all fronts – eating, drinking, accommodation, etc… Hotels and restaurants in the New Territories and pockets of Kowloon are by far the most affordable in Hong Kong!

Pale Ale Travel Tip: If you’re considering moving to Hong Kong and want to know what it costs to rent an apartment in Mid-Levels, one of the more expensive areas of Hong Kong Island (and the city), make sure to check out my post ‘How Much Does It Cost to Rent an Apartment in Mid-Levels?’. 

How Much Will My Trip to Hong Kong Cost?

I’ll take one of these sunsets with a McDouble over a Michelin star meal any day of the week.

I’m going to ballpark things here and provide a general estimate of exactly how much your trip to Hong Kong could cost. 

The minimum you can expect to spend in Hong Kong for accommodation, transport, and three square meals, is roughly HK$800 per day. However, that is on the lower end and for those staying at a budget/mini hotel or hostel, eating primarily local meals and snacks, taking the bus and MTR everywhere, and partaking in the free experiences (ex. Hiking, beaches, etc…) I listed above.  

A mid-range budget will realistically range from HK$1500 to HK$2750 per person, per day. This gets you a comfortable, sleek hotel, includes a mix of both local eateries and mid-range restaurants, occasional taxi/Uber use, and several paid attractions (ex. The Peak Tram). For couples, consider halving the accommodation cost, which could see this number hover between HK$1250 to HK$2250 per person, per day. 

For high-end, luxury travelers, you probably aren’t reading this right now as money ain’t a thang. However, daily budgets per person may typically begin around HK$3750 to HK$6000. 

However, if you’re staying in a 5-star hotel and planning on going to one of Hong Kong’s countless fine-dining restaurants, drinking/getting bottle service at a club, using taxis all day, and shopping for luxury goods, I’d estimate your daily cost per person begins around HK$6000 to HK$8000. 

Pale Ale Travel Tip: If you have any questions about where you should allocate your budget for Hong Kong, such as adding onto a certain activity or experience or cutting one out, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me!

Hong Kong Can Be Whatever You Want It To Be

Love going out to Sai Kung.

As someone who isn’t really making much money at the moment (not like I ever earned a ton), I’m learning more and more that cost-wise, Hong Kong really can be whatever you want it to be. 

But for a few exorbitantly priced necessities, especially accommodation, Hong Kong can be experienced in a more affordable way than you might have initially anticipated. 

However, it’s important to understand that while Hong Kong can be done more affordably than you might have initially thought, you need to be careful. Costs can add up quickly if you aren’t careful. 

Trust me, I know that feeling all too well. 

My biggest tip: take advantage of all the free beauty, culture, and heritage that Hong Kong has to offer. As someone who has lived here for roughly seven years now, no paid activity outshines exploring Hong Kong’s free vibrant landscapes.

If you have any questions about traveling to Hong Kong (or moving) and/or need help planning your trip, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at info@palealetravel.com. 

Travel well everyone,

Big Body