How much would it cost to travel to Hong Kong? - 2026 Guide

How much does it cost to go to Hong Kong?

The total cost of a vacation to Hong Kong fluctuates depending on how you travel. You'll mostly be spending your money on three things:

• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Food and drink

Accommodation in the city center generally consumes the largest portion of your daily budget.

What is a realistic daily budget for a budget traveler?

Backpackers can explore Hong Kong for as little as $47 to $80 per day. To hit this target, you'll need to find affordable accommodation, which is often your largest expense. Hostels and guesthouses, particularly in areas like Kowloon, typically charge between HK$300 and HK$600 per night.

Use the rest of your cash for street food and low-cost local dining options instead of international restaurants. You can keep travel costs down with the Octopus card for travel across the city.

How much does a mid-range or luxury trip cost?

If you want a bit more comfort, you should plan for approximately $132 per day. For this price, you can expect private rooms in 3-star or 4-star hotels, which are common in districts like Tsim Sha Tsui.

Luxury travel averages around $330 daily. High-end accommodation in Central or near Victoria Harbour often costs between HK$1,500 and HK$2,500 per night. A higher budget allows for fine dining on Hong Kong Island rather than relying solely on street stalls.

Hong Kong travel cost breakdown

What is the cost of flights to Hong Kong?

Airfare is a huge upfront cost. Prices swing wildly depending on where you're flying from and the chosen airline class.

For those focusing on budget travel, roundtrip economy tickets typically start from approximately $588. If you opt for business class seats, expect prices to start from $4,772. Such a massive jump in cost eats into your budget before you even arrive in the city.

When is the cheapest time to fly to Hong Kong?

Timing your visit during the low season can save you a lot of money. The high season generally runs from October to April, driving up demand and prices. However, if you book flights for off-peak months like January or June, prices can drop by 30% to 40%. Saving on flights frees up cash for accommodation and other expenses.

How much should you budget for accommodation?

Accommodation will be your biggest expense in a typical Hong Kong budget. Costs depend heavily on the chosen district, with significant price differences between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Popular areas like Tsim Sha Tsui offer a mix of value and convenience, whereas Central is known for premium pricing. Don't forget to account for the 3% Hotel Accommodation Tax introduced in 2025, which slightly raises overall travel costs.

What are the prices for hostels and guesthouses?

You'll find the best deals by booking hostels or guesthouses in Kowloon. Prices generally range from HK$300 to HK$600 per night. Popular districts for budget travel include Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok. Chungking Mansions is the place to go for cheap stays. Speaking from experience, the elevators can be a tight squeeze, but the savings are undeniable.

How much do mid-range and luxury hotels cost?

Mid-range travel accommodation generally costs between HK$800 and HK$1,500 per night. These properties are more comfortable and you'll find most of them in convenient districts like Tsim Sha Tsui.

Travelers seeking luxury experiences should budget between HK$1,500 and HK$2,500 or more nightly. Premium hotels, such as Hotel Icon, charge more due to their prime locations in Central or near Victoria Harbour. Prices for these establishments on Hong Kong Island reflect the prime views and luxury.

What are the costs of food and dining in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong offers incredible culinary variety, allowing you to eat well on a budget or splurge on world-class dining. Dining at a dai pai dong or enjoying street food keeps your costs down. On the other hand, international restaurants and hotel dining will drive up your bill.

How much is street food and local dining?

Street food and local eateries are your cheapest bet. Eating at street stalls and cha chaan tengs saves money while still tasting delicious. Classic snacks like egg waffles or curry fish balls typically cost between HK$20 and HK$40, though you can find cheaper stalls in districts like Mong Kok selling them for as little as HK$10.

A set meal at a local diner generally ranges from HK$50 to HK$80, while breakfast options are particularly affordable, often priced around HK$30 to HK$45. A classic bowl of Wonton noodle soup averages around HK$70 ($9) at local dining venues, and Char Siu with rice is another great budget option. Trust me, the rich shrimp broth alone is worth the trip. You'll get authentic flavors at a fraction of the cost of sit-down restaurants.

What is the cost of fine dining and international cuisine?

Fine dining and international cuisine can get expensive fast. Lunch sets in business districts like Central usually cost between HK$200 and HK$400. Dinner prices at fancy restaurants frequently start at HK$800 per person excluding drinks, with cocktails and wine adding HK$100 to HK$150 per glass.

Premium dim sum parlors charge between HK$100 and HK$200 per meal, and have a better vibe than street stalls. International cuisine costs substantially more due to imported ingredients, so if you're on a budget, save these for a special night out. A 10% service charge is standard at these higher-end venues.

How expensive is transportation in Hong Kong?

Public transportation in Hong Kong is world-class, highly efficient, and remarkably affordable. Compared to the high cost of accommodation, getting around Hong Kong is refreshingly cheap. You have plenty of options:

• The extensive MTR network
• Historic trams
• The iconic Star Ferry

These low prices ensure that transportation won't take up much of your budget.

How does the Octopus card work for travel expenses?

The Octopus card is a smart card that makes paying for transport easy. You can buy a standard On-Loan Octopus for a refundable deposit of HK$50 (approximately $6.40) plus an initial top-up amount. This card automatically applies slight discounts to MTR fares compared to single-journey tickets, saving you money on every trip.

It works for more than just transit—you can use it at over 180,000 spots:

• Convenience stores
• Supermarkets
• Vending machines

Such widespread acceptance makes it super convenient for daily transactions without handling cash. Honestly, I don’t know how I’d survive the city without one. It's a must-have for any traveler.

What are the fares for the MTR and Star Ferry?

Crossing Victoria Harbour on the iconic Star Ferry is one of the most affordable sightseeing experiences, with rides costing approximately HK$3.3 to HK$6.5 depending on the day. It connects Kowloon and Hong Kong Island for pennies. It is hands down my favorite way to see the skyline on a budget. MTR fares are just as cheap, typically ranging between $0.50 and $2.00 USD (HK$4 to HK$16) for standard urban routes.

Fares for the tram on Hong Kong Island are as low as HK$3.00 per ride. Trips crossing the harbour to Tsim Sha Tsui generally cost slightly more than local stops on the same side. These low prices make it cheap and easy to get around.

How much is the airport express transfer?

The Airport Express is the quickest way from Lantau Island to the city, taking just 24 minutes to reach Central. A single-journey ticket to Hong Kong Station costs HK$115 ($14.70), while a trip to Kowloon is HK$105 ($13.40). Although more expensive than the A11 bus, which costs HK$40, the Express is much faster and more comfortable.

Travelers typically use an Octopus card to hop on this premium MTR line. It's worth the extra cost if you're in a rush.

Why is an eSIM recommended for travel in Hong Kong?

Using an eSIM is the cheapest way to stay online in Hong Kong without incurring high roaming charges. Digital SIM cards are better than physical ones because you don't have to swap tiny chips or visit a store after landing. You can buy a specialized eSIM for Hong Kong online that activates immediately to keep travel costs low.

Providers such as AloSIM and Holafly offer competitive rates that work well for tight budgets. You'll get instant access to maps and apps, which you'll definitely need to get around.

What do sightseeing and attractions cost?

Hong Kong offers lots to see that fit every budget. Costs vary significantly, ranging from completely free cultural landmarks to expensive theme park tickets. Travelers often balance high-cost activities with zero-cost visits to temples or public parks. Purchasing attraction passes is a smart way to save money, as these bundles frequently offer discounted access to multiple sites including day trips to Macau.

How much are tickets for major theme parks?

Theme parks are the priciest sightseeing expense in Hong Kong. A one-day ticket to Hong Kong Disneyland, located on Lantau Island, currently costs between HK$639 and HK$879 depending on the tier and seasonal demand. Ocean Park is slightly more affordable, with general admission priced around HK$498 for adults. These attractions take up a big chunk of your budget for families, often making a mid-range trip feel like a luxury one cost-wise.

What does it cost to visit Victoria Peak and the Big Buddha?

Visiting iconic landmarks often costs money for transport rather than entrance tickets. The Peak Tram return ticket to Victoria Peak costs approximately HK$88, and adding the Sky Terrace 428 brings the total to HK$148. For the Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island, a round-trip cable car ride on Ngong Ping 360 runs about HK$270 for a standard cabin. Access to the Buddha statue itself is free.

Are there free attractions in Hong Kong?

Many of the city's most famous sights are entirely free, balancing out the cost of paid activities. The Symphony of Lights show at Victoria Harbour costs nothing to watch every night at 8:00 PM; you can join the crowds at the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade for the best vantage point. Public museums offer free admission to permanent exhibitions on Wednesdays.

Exploring cultural sites like Man Mo Temple, hiking the Dragon's Back trail, or visiting public green spaces like Hong Kong Park and the Zoological and Botanical Gardens gives you a great experience without costing a dime. Browsing the bustling markets in Mong Kok also is free fun.

How can you save money on your Hong Kong trip?

Planning your transport and dining in advance can save you a lot. Travel insurance is a smart buy that costs approximately $4 per day but prevents minor medical issues from costing you a fortune.

You can save significantly on food by prioritizing dai pai dongs and street food stalls over western restaurants, often reducing meal costs to under HK$50. Using the MTR and the Octopus card keeps transport costs low compared to taxis or private transfers. Visiting museums on free admission Wednesdays and hiking trails like the Dragon's Back helps you stick to your budget while still having fun.

Sources

• https://www.ird.gov.hk/eng/tax/hat.htm
• https://www.octopus.com.hk/en/corporate/media/press-releases/2025/20250218.html
• https://www.np360.com.hk/en/tickets-promotions/tickets-tours/other-tickets/single-round-trip-cable-car-ticket