🇭🇰 Traveling to Hong Kong with Children? Everything You Need to Know (2026)
- 2 days ago
- 10 min read
你好 👋 Nei hou!
Have you ever been to Hong Kong? If not... what’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of it?
Hong Kong is, without a doubt, a fascinating place. It’s efficient, convenient, and incredibly easy to navigate thanks to a world-class transport system. There is so much to see and do.
But it’s also a city of sensory overload: a kaleidoscope of neon signs, constant noise, and lots of "interesting" smells. It’s a place where (almost) everyone is in a rush and a thousand things are happening all at once.
For those who are not used to Asia big cities rhythm, it can definitely feel a bit overwhelming.
On a personal level, Hong Kong is my birthplace. It’s the city where I always cross paths with an old friend called "Nostalgia."
It’s the nest I left behind to migrate, quite literally, to the other side of the world.
As life would have it, we now find ourselves living much closer. This has given us the chance to visit frequently, not just to see family, but to rediscover the city through a new lens: through the eyes of our children!
If this is your first time traveling to Asia, Hong Kong is a fantastic introduction to this intriguing continent. It’s one of the world’s major transit hubs with connections almost everywhere; plus, essential information is readily available in English, and most people (especially the younger generation) speak the language well.
Below, we’re sharing our personal recommendations on what to do, what to see, and—most importantly—what to eat in Hong Kong (need a separate blog post just to talk about food in HK!).
Table of Contents
Before traveling to Hong Kong: Preparations
🛂 Documentation & Entry Requirements
First, check if you need a visa for short-term tourist stays and ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months. [ HK visa requirements ]
Unlike many other Asian destinations, as of 2026, Hong Kong no longer requires you to fill out an immigration arrival card (paper or digital). You can simply walk straight to the counters or use the e-Channels if eligible.
It is also crucial to understand that Hong Kong, Mainland China, and Taiwan maintain completely independent immigration policies. Having permission to enter one does not guarantee access to the others; each territory requires its own passport control and, depending on your nationality, a separate visa or permit.
📶 Connectivity
You can easily purchase an eSIM before you arrive or pick up a local SIM card directly at the airport or in the city. They are affordable and offer excellent coverage across the islands.
[ Klook eSIM | Trip . com eSIM ]
Also, for those who are wondering, In Hong Kong you won't be needing a VPN to use your usual apps, access Google, etc. And we use Whatsapp as the main chat app.
💵 Currency & Payments
While credit cards, Apple Pay, and even Alipay are widely accepted, I highly recommend carrying some cash (HKD - Hong Kong Dollar). Small local shops and traditional markets often prefer it.
Trip to Hong Kong - How to get there
✈️ Hong Kong has one main hub: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). *HKG is very stroller-friendly, in fact they offer their own stroller free to use in the airport, very convenient :) and thoughtful, there are also kids' play area and nursing rooms.
🚕 Arrival Tips: There are plenty of official taxis available right outside. Look for the Red Taxis if you’re heading to Kowloon or Central, and Green Taxis for the New Territories. Alternatively, the Airport Express (the rapid train) and an extensive bus network can take you to every corner of the city. Everything is clearly signposted, so there’s absolutely no need to book private transport in advance as you might in other cities.
🛄 Departure Tips: Give yourself plenty of time for check-in, security, and immigration. Even though the airport is incredibly efficient, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. I once underestimated the size of the terminal and had to literally run to the gate, some gates are only accessible via an underground shuttle train, so don't cut it too close!
⛴️ Other Entry Points
Besides flying, you can also enter Hong Kong overland from Mainland China or by taking a ferry from Macau.
Accomodation - Where to stay
Hong Kong is world-famous for being one of the densest cities on the planet! Space is at a premium here, and you’re definitely going to notice it.
⚠️ A word of caution when booking: Whether you're looking at hotels or Airbnbs, be careful, photos can be very deceiving. Pay close attention to the actual square footage (or square meters) of the room. A great pro-tip is to cross-check reviews; don't just rely on the platform you're using (like Booking or Trip.com), but also search for the property on Google Maps to see what guests are saying there.
That being said, Hong Kong has a massive range of great places to stay. As long as you ensure you are near an MTR (subway) or bus station, you’ll be all set!está!
Hotel Recommendations:
The "Local" Alternative: New Territories
We personally tend to stay in the New Territories because that’s where our family lives. While it is further away from the main tourist attractions, we actually highly recommend it for families who want a bit more peace and quiet. It’s a chance to see a very authentic side of Hong Kong at more affordable prices: and you’re right by the beach!
Gold Coast Hotel - Tuen Mun, New Territories [ Booking ]
💡 Worldschooling Tip: If you’re planning a longer stay (two weeks or more), always check the hotels' official websites directly. They often have unlisted "extended stay" deals that are much cheaper than the nightly rates on booking apps.
Transport : Getting around HK
Upon arrival, your first priority should be getting an Octopus Card. It is incredibly useful, not just for all public transport, but also for convenience stores, vending machines, and even some small eateries. If you have an iPhone, you can skip the plastic and add a Digital Octopus directly to your Apple Wallet.
For families, the Child Octopus is for kids aged 3 to 11. It offers half-fare discounts on almost all public transport, including the MTR, buses, and ferries. These cards have an initial cost of $100 HKD (which includes a $50 HKD refundable deposit and $50 HKD of pre-loaded credit). You can pick them up easily at any MTR Customer Service Center, including the one right at the airport.
Note: You can also pay with contactless Visa, Mastercard, or UnionPay (physical cards or mobile versions) at the designated light-blue gates on the MTR and on most buses.
Navigating the City
Moving around Hong Kong is a breeze thanks to one of the most efficient transport networks in the world. In fact, several of these modes of transport are iconic Hong Kong experiences in their own right:
MTR (Subway): It’s clean, fast, air-conditioned, and connects almost every key point on the island and Kowloon.
Buses & Minibuses: The classic double-decker buses cover the scenic routes the metro doesn't reach. Pro-tip: Take the very front seat on the top floor for the best views! The green and red minibuses are faster but usually require you to shout to the driver when you want to get off.
Tram (Ding Ding): Found exclusively on Hong Kong Island. You board at the back and pay at the front only when you exit.
Star Ferry: An absolute must-do. This historic (and very cheap) ferry crosses Victoria Harbour between Central/Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui, offering the most iconic views of the skyline.
Outlying Island Ferries: These connect the city center to beautiful islands like Lantau, Lamma, or Cheung Chau for a perfect day trip.
A quick (and honest) note: If you’re like me and aren't a fan of huge crowds, Hong Kong's public transport can feel a bit overwhelming during rush hour. Just take a deep breath, follow the signage, and keep your Google Maps handy, it’s very accurate here!
Useful Phrases in Cantonese
In Hong Kong, the primary language is Cantonese.
If you aren't sure about the difference between Cantonese and Mandarin, think of it like the relationship between Latin American Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese. While they are distinct, they share many similarities in vocabulary and expressions. However, at the end of the day, they are two different languages. One major difference is that Cantonese uses six to nine tones, compared to the four or five tones found in Mandarin.
In terms of writing, Hong Kong and Taiwan both use Traditional Chinese (which uses more complex characters), while Mainland China, Malaysia, and Singapore... where there are large Huaren (Chinese-descent) communities, typically use the Simplified format.
Essential Cantonese for your Trip
Cantonese | Meaning | Pronunciation |
唔該 | Excuse me / Thank you | M-goi |
你好 | Hello | Nei-hou |
多謝 | Thank you (for a gift/favor) | Dor-jeh |
埋單 | The check, please | Maai-daan |
呢個 | This one | Nee-gor |
幾多錢? | How much is this? | Gay-dor-cheen? |
唔要 | I don't want (it) | M-yiu |
好食 | Delicious | Hou-sek |
唔識聽 | I don't understand (speech) | M-sik-teng |
再見 / 掰掰 | Goodbye / Bye-bye | Joy-geen / Bye-bye |
💡 "唔該 (M-goi)" is the most worth learning. You can use it to get a server's attention, ask for help at a hotel, or say "excuse me" to pass someone. It also doubles as a "thank you" when receiving a ticket, info, or if someone holds the door for you.
Food
Hong Kong cuisine is, without exaggeration, some of the most delicious and sophisticated food in the entire world! It is so special that it truly deserves a dedicated post of its own.
[ click here ] to read our complete guide on what to eat, what to drink, and exactly how to order it like a local!
Top 5 Things to Do in Hong Kong with Kids
1 - Hong Kong Disneyland and/or Ocean Park: While Hong Kong Disneyland is more compact than its counterparts, it features exclusive, world-class attractions like Mystic Manor. On the other hand, Ocean Park offers a unique blend of a massive aquarium, giant panda habitats, and a cliffside amusement park with stunning ocean views.
2 - Ferry from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central or viceversa, Avenue of Stars, HK Skyline and Symphony of Lights: A ride on the ferry from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central (or vice versa) is an absolute classic. Stroll along the Avenue of Stars to soak in the famous Hong Kong skyline. Stick around for the Symphony of Lights at 8:00 PM to see the laser and light show dance across the harbor. The area is also home to the Science Museum, Space Museum, and Museum of Art. For families, the K11 Musea mall is a great stop—it even houses the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre.📍Google Map
3 - Central: Hong Kong Park and Causeway bay: Hong Kong Park is a true oasis tucked between skyscrapers. It features a massive walk-through aviary where you can stroll right at the treetop level. The Central Mid-Levels Escalators are also a quirky and fun way to explore the hilly streets. A few stops away is Causeway Bay, a shopping district with endless local food spots that you and your kids will love!
4 - Mong Kok & Sham Shui Po: These districts are the heart of Hong Kong’s urban culture. You’ll find the famous Ladies’ Market, as well as dedicated streets for flowers, birds, goldfish, and even sneakers! Sham Shui Po is the go-to spot for electronics. The best way to recharge between markets is at a Cha Chaan Teng (local cafe) for some street food.
The kids' favorite? Toy Street (Tai Yuen Street). We didn't buy much, but they loved window-shopping and seeing the incredible variety of toys at great prices.
5 - Victoria Peak Garden and the Peak Tram: While many consider the historic funicular to the Peak an "must-visit" classic, be prepared for long lines and wait times depending on the day.
If your kids are older or enjoy walking, we highly recommend the Peak Circle Walk instead. It offers breathtaking views with much less stress. 📍 Peak Trail (Victoria Peak Circle Walk)
Off-the-Beaten-Path Family Adventures in Hong Kong
1 - Hong Kong Crossroads Foundation
If you’re looking for a truly meaningful and memorable experience, I cannot recommend Crossroads enough. They offer unique programs you won't find anywhere else.
We did the "Trail of World Needs," an interactive tour that helps children understand complex issues like poverty and the refugee experience in an empathetic, visual way. They also offer the powerful "Blind X-perience" (better for teens/adults) where visually impaired guides teach you to navigate in total darkness.
Afterward, you can volunteer in their destribution center. Our kids loved the playground made of recycled materials, feeding the goats, and browsing the Fair Trade shop full of ethical treasures. It’s a beautiful place that invites children to see the world through a different lens.
2 - Hong Kong Wetland Park: Located in the north (Tin Shui Wai), this ecological park is perfect for spotting migratory birds and exploring mangroves. It’s a very relaxing family day out in nature. 📍 Google Map
3- West Kowloon Cultural District (Art Park)
A new local favorite! This is a massive waterfront green space perfect for a sunset picnic. It’s home to the M+ Museum and the Palace Museum, and you can even catch a water taxi or ferry back to Central from here.
4 - Dragon's Back Hiking Trail
Difficulty: Low-Medium (mostly flat after the initial climb).
Time: 2–3 hours with kids.
Distance: Approx. 8.5 km (if finishing at the beach).
Ages: Great for kids 5–6 and up (not stroller-friendly).
Getting there: Take the MTR to Shau Kei Wan (Blue Line, Exit A3). Take Bus No. 9 toward Shek O and get off at To Tei Wan.
The Reward: The trail ends at Big Wave Bay, a cool surfer beach, or you can head to Shek O for a nice meal.
5 - Repulse Bay Beach and/or Stanley Beach: Beautiful beaches just 30–45 minutes from Central Station. Perfect for a sandy break from the city heat.
💜 We hope you enjoyed this guide and that it inspires your own Hong Kong adventure!
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