What It Costs In Hong Kong

Part of our Hong Kong guide.

Hong Kong can be done on a budget if you know where to look. The biggest costs are accommodation and transport. Here’s what you can expect to pay for a thrifty visit, based on our recent guides.

10 Best Cheap Hotels In Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

In Tsim Sha Tsui, the most affordable hotels cluster around the southern end of Nathan Road and the alleys off Cameron Road. These are the 10 best cheap hotels we found, chosen for room rates, location, amenities, and guest reviews. You’ll be close to the Avenue of the Stars and the Star Ferry pier, and the area is packed with shopping and dining. Budget rooms here typically run from HK$300 to HK$600 per night, depending on the season and how far in advance you book.

10 Best Budget Hotels In Hong Kong: Affordable Accommodation

Beyond Tsim Sha Tsui, budget hotels are scattered across Mong Kok, Wan Chai, and Causeway Bay. These are the 10 best budget hotels we recommend, from cozy guesthouses to modern boutique hotels. Expect to pay HK$250 to HK$500 per night for a double room with a private bathroom, though some hostels offer dorm beds for as little as HK$150. Prices rise during festivals and major events, so book early.

Transport On A Budget

Getting around Hong Kong is cheap and efficient. The MTR subway network is the fastest option; a single ride from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central costs about HK$10, while an Octopus card gives you a small discount on every trip. The iconic red trams run across the north of Hong Kong Island for a flat fare of HK$3, and the Star Ferry between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central costs HK$4 for adults on the upper deck. Buses and minibuses are slightly more expensive but still under HK$20 for most routes. If you plan to do a lot of riding, a day pass for the MTR costs HK$50 and covers unlimited travel on the subway and light rail.

10 Best Things To Do In Hong Kong On A Budget

Many of Hong Kong’s best experiences are free or nearly so. The top 10 things to do on a budget include hiking the Dragon’s Back trail, visiting the Big Buddha on Lantau Island, and exploring the street markets in Mong Kok. A ride on the Star Ferry is a must—it’s one of the cheapest sightseeing cruises in the world. Other low-cost highlights include the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, the Hong Kong Museum of History (free on Wednesdays), and the nightly symphony of lights show from the harbourfront. Avoid the expensive restaurants in tourist zones; instead, eat at dai pai dong stalls where a full meal costs HK$40–60. With careful planning, you can easily keep your daily spending to under HK$500, not counting accommodation.