How to get around Hong Kong: Complete Transport Guide

How to get around Hong Kong: Complete Transport Guide

Getting around Hong Kong might look complicated at first. Between the islands, skyscrapers, and huge array of transport options, it can feel overwhelming for first-timers!

But in reality, Hong Kong is one of the easiest cities in Asia to get around! The public transport network is fast, cheap, clean, and incredibly well connected!

I’ve spent more than a month exploring Hong Kong across multiple trips, and I’ve used pretty much every type of transport the city has to offer!

In this guide, I’ll explain exactly how to get around Hong Kong, including which transport options to use, how to pay, how much it costs, and when each makes the most sense. So let’s go!

Best ways to get around Hong Kong

For most visitors, the MTR is the best way to get around Hong Kong. It’s fast, reliable, and connects most of the places you’re likely to visit, no matter how many days you’re spending in Hong Kong.

But I wouldn’t recommend using the MTR for everything, so here’s my breakdown:

Do you need an Octopus Card?

Before you think about getting any public transport in Hong Kong, you should probably decide whether you need an Octopus Card.

What is an Octopus Card?

The Octopus Card is Hong Kong’s rechargeable travel card (just like Oyster cards in the UK).

You can use it on the MTR, buses, trams and ferries as well as in several shops, convenience stores and restaurants around the city.

For longer trips, I think it’s worth having. But if you’re only spending 24 hours in Hong Kong, you don’t necessarily need one.

Where to buy an Octopus Card

You can buy a tourist Octopus in MTR stations, the airport, and some convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Circle K.

If you’re planning on getting one, I recommend buying it as soon as you arrive at the airport.

Once you have it, simply tap in and tap out when using transport. You’ll see your remaining balance on the screen when you do this. Topping up is easy (with card or cash) at stations and convenience stores across the city.

MTR in Hong Kong

The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is Hong Kong’s metro system and the backbone of public transport in the city. It’s clean, air-conditioned and runs every few minutes.

Covering Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and areas of the New Territories and Lantau, the MTR is the quickest and most reliable way to get around for most visitors.

Plus it’s incredibly easy to use! Signs are signposted in English and Chinese, and the network works seamlessly with Google Maps.

There are often multiple entrances and exits for each station, so watch out for the wrong exits; otherwise, you might end up adding long walks to your journey!

MTR Cost

The price depends on how far you’re travelling, but it’s generally the most affordable way to get around the city. Journey planners will check the exact price of a journey if you are interested.

You can pay with your Octopus card, contactless bank card, or purchase a single-journey ticket.

MTR opening hours

Most MTR lines operate from around 06:00 until approximately 01:00, although exact times vary depending on the line. Unless you’re travelling late at night, it’ll usually be available whenever you need it.

Ferries in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s ferries are an important part of the city’s transport network, particularly if you’re heading to one of the outlying islands. From Central, you can catch ferries to popular destinations including Lamma Island, Cheung Chau, Peng Chau and Mui Wo on Lantau Island. There are also smaller ferry routes connecting some of the islands with each other.

They’re a great way to escape the city and see a quieter side of Hong Kong, and provide awesome views along the way!

Fares vary depending on the destination, but they’re generally very reasonable. For example, an adult ferry from Central to Lamma Island cost me HK$24.90.

Hong Kong Trams: The Ding Ding

Ding Dings are Hong Kong’s famous tram. They’re very different from the Peak Tram, which goes up to the highest point in Central!

These skinny, double-decker trams only run along the northern side of Hong Kong Island, passing through Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and North Point.

They’re much slower than the MTR, but that’s part of the appeal. Sit upstairs, watch the streets go by, and take in the skyscrapers and neighbourhoods without disappearing underground. Then hop off at your desired stop.

They’re also incredibly cheap thanks to their flat-fare system, so they’re a great option when you’re not in a rush.

Buses in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s buses are a useful alternative to the MTR.

You’ll often find them in more remote areas where the MTR doesn’t reach. I found this great for reaching trailheads of hikes or getting around Lantau Island

There are a variety of different buses throughout Hong Kong. From long coach-like buses for popular routes to smaller minibus-like buses for quieter areas.

I wouldn’t make this your main way of getting around Hong Kong.

Just like the MTR, buses in Hong Kong are very tourist-friendly. Signs are in English, routes are on Google Maps, and there are specific route numbers, so you know where you’re going!

The biggest downside is that they’re a bit slower and not as frequent.

Airport Transfers

There are several ways to travel to and from Hong Kong International Airport.

My favourite is the Airport Express, which is the fastest way between the airport and city centre. Trains take around 25 minutes to reach Hong Kong station.

It’s what I recommend most of the time, but especially if you’re on a short layover!

The cheaper alternative is the multitude of Airport Buses. If you’re staying in Kowloon, Mong Kok, Tsim Sha Tsui, and even parts of Hong Kong Island.

Once again, they’re air-conditioned and clean. I like to use them to save some money and get a good view of the city as we drive through.

Taxis in Hong Kong

Taxis are everywhere in Hong Kong, but do you really need them?

I’d say they’re useful when travelling late at night, carrying lots of luggage, or heading somewhere that’s awkward to reach by public transport (which is rare). They’re metered and can generally be hailed on the street or picked up from designated taxi ranks.

You can still pay in cash (and it’s a nice backup), but since April 2026, taxis have been required to offer at least two electronic payment options.

Taxis in Hong Kong come in three colours: red, green and blue.

• Red taxis: These urban taxis operate across most of Hong Kong and are the most common.
• Green taxis: These only serve the New Territories.
• Blue taxis: Operate on Lantau Island.

Walking around Hong Kong

Whilst I’ve mentioned plenty of ways to get around Hong Kong already, it’s worth mentioning that it’s still surprisingly easy to explore on foot!

One thing many visitors underestimate is how hilly Hong Kong is. A journey that looks short on Google Maps can actually be a mammoth task…

I usually combine walking with public transport: use the MTR, ferry or tram to reach an area; then explore on foot once you arrive.

Peak Tram and Other Tourist Transport

Aside from the regular trams and MTR, there are a handful of ‘one-off’ transport options in Hong Kong that you might come across.

• Peak Tram: Connecting Central with Victoria Peak, it’s as much a tourist attraction as it is a mode of transport.
• Ngong Ping 360: On Lantau Island, this extended cable car takes you all the way up to the Big Buddha.
• Star Ferry: The most scenic way to cross Victoria Harbour, this boat is used by locals and tourists.

How to reach major attractions

If you’re looking for a quickfire way to get to a tourist hotspot, here’s the quick version.

• How to get to Victoria Peak: Take the MTR to Central. From there, you can hike, take the famous Peak Tram, or take a minibus to the top.
• How to get to Lamma Island: Take the ferry from Central (Pier 4) to either Yung Shue Wan or Sok Kwu Wan. They leave multiple times a day.
• How to get to Lantau Island: Whilst there are ferries and buses available, I recommend taking the MTR to Lantau Island (Tung Chung stop). It’s the quickest and easiest way – especially if you’re heading towards the Big Buddha. Simply hop on the Ngong Ping 360 or take a bus to Ngong Ping.
• How to get to Mong Kok: Since it has its own station, simply take the MTR to Mong Kok Station.
• How to get to the Dragon’s Back: Take the MTR to Shau Kei Wan Station, then catch the No.9 bus to Tei Wan. From there, follow signs to the Dragon’s Back Trail to begin your hike.
• How to get to Chi Lin Nunnery: Take the MTR to Diamond Hill Station (Exit C2), then you can walk from there towards Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden.

Google Maps will always give you the easiest route. Just remember, the fastest option isn’t always the most enjoyable. The Star Ferry beats the MTR when crossing Victoria Harbour!

How I got around Hong Kong

If you’re wondering what getting around Hong Kong looks like in the real world, this is what has worked for me.

Over multiple trips to Hong Kong, the MTR has been by far my most-used form of transport.

I’d estimate that around 80% of my journeys were by MTR! That figure has gradually gone down as I explored hiking trails, islands, and more remote areas which require other modes.

Ferries to reach the islands probably account for ~10%, whilst buses are another ~10%. Then I used a handful of taxis and ding dings when it made sense.

This is my formula:

• MTR for everyday journeys.
• Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour (or MTR if in a rush)
• Island ferries for islands like Lamma Island
• Buses for hiking trails and harder-to-reach destinations.

Common Hong Kong Transport Mistakes

1. Not getting an Octopus Card: Whilst you don’t absolutely need one. The longer you stay, the more likely you are to get caught out by a route that needs one.
2. Taking a taxi when the MTR is faster: The MTR is often quicker, cheaper, and more predictable than sitting in traffic.
3. Missing the last ferry: Always double-check ferry timetables before heading to the place
4. Using the airport express when a bus would do: Airport Express is excellent, but airport buses are far cheaper if you don’t mind a slower journey.

Whilst we’re here, I’ve got a few tips for getting around Hong Kong too:

• Wear comfy shoes: I always end up walking a lot whenever I visit Hong Kong, so I’m glad to have trainers.
• Keep your Octopus card handy: You’ll use it constantly when relying on public transport. Because of this, I also recommend topping up whenever you’re in a 7-Eleven to save hassle at the station.
• Check your station exit before leaving the MTR. Some stations are huge, and the wrong exit can add a fair amount of walking… Google Maps can help you pick the right one.
• Use Google Maps: It’s my go-to for figuring out which bus, MTR line, or ferry I need.

FAQs

What are the best apps for travelling Hong Kong?

Google Maps is the app I use most. It will help you with routes, walking directions, journey times, and even expected cost.

Aside from that, the MTR Mobile app and HK Bus App can help you keep track of transport.

If you’ve got an Octopus Card, having the Octopus Card app (Tourist Version) can be helpful for topping up. However, I don’t think it offers a great exchange rate, so you’ll probably save money using the physical card.

Is Uber available in Hong Kong?

Yes, Uber operates in Hong Kong. However, most of the time I still ended up using public transport or hailing a red taxi.

Is Grab available in Hong Kong?

No, Grab does not operate in Hong Kong. Instead, you can use a traditional metered taxi or use Uber.

How much does transport cost in Hong Kong?

*Exact prices depend on distance and route, but transport in Hong Kong is generally great value.

Is public transport good in Hong Kong?

Yes – public transport in Hong Kong is one of the best systems in the world!

The MTR is fast and reliable. The buses, ferries and trams cover almost everywhere that isn’t directly connected by train.

Do tourists need an Octopus Card?

Not really, but I’d recommend getting one if you’re staying for more than a day or two.

Can I use credit card on public transport?

Yes, contactless bank cards are accepted on the MTR for eligible journeys. However, acceptance varies between different forms of transport.

An Octopus Card is the easiest all-round option and will guarantee you can get on all forms of transport.

Can I use Google Maps in Hong Kong?

Yes, unlike mainland China, Google Maps works very well in Hong Kong.

How to get around Hong Kong at night?

The MTR is still the easiest option for most evening journeys, though services don’t run all night.

Buses and taxis are useful later at night,

Ferries can stop relatively early, so make sure to check the final departure time so you don’t miss your ride home!

What is the cheapest way to get around Hong Kong?

The cheapest way to get around Hong Kong is on foot…

Whilst this is manageable in some areas like Central or Kowloon, it quickly becomes impractical when you try to go further afield!

For longer distances, the MTR and buses will generally offer the best value.

Should I rent a car in Hong Kong?

Whilst you can rent a car in Hong Kong, I really wouldn’t recommend it.

The city’s public transport is too good to make driving worthwhile, particularly when traffic is heavy, and parking is limited (and expensive).

Even when heading away from the centre, public transport can usually get you pretty close. I’ve never felt the need to rent a car during my time in Hong Kong!

Before you go

Thank you for reading my guide on how to get around Hong Kong. If guides, itineraries and travel content like this interest you, head over to my Homepage to find out more.

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Happy travelling!