Hong Kong in 5 Days

Currency & Payments

The currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HK$), roughly HK$7.8 to US$1. Cards and mobile payments (Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay) are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but carry cash for markets, street food, taxis, and small eateries. ATMs are everywhere; HSBC and Hang Seng have the widest networks.

Octopus Card (Transit)

Buy an Octopus card at any MTR station (HK$150 including a HK$50 refundable deposit) or add a digital Octopus to your phone wallet. Tap it for MTR, buses, trams, ferries, and even convenience stores. Top up at machines, 7-Eleven, or via the app. It's the single most useful thing you'll buy here.

SIM / eSIM

Grab a tourist eSIM before arrival (Airalo, Nomad, or 3HK offer 5-8 day data plans for around HK$60-120). Alternatively, buy a physical 3HK or CSL SIM at the airport or any 7-Eleven. Coverage is excellent everywhere, including the MTR and Peak.

Weather & Packing

October to December is the best window: warm, dry, and comfortable (18-27°C). Summer (Jun-Sep) is hot, humid, and typhoon-prone. Pack light layers, comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella, and a light jacket for over-air-conditioned interiors. Sunscreen is useful for hikes and island days.

Etiquette & Tipping

Tipping is not expected; restaurants add a 10% service charge. Rounding up taxi fares is polite but optional. Stand on the right on escalators, keep your voice down on the MTR, and avoid eating or drinking on trains (it's fined). English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Getting Around

The MTR is fast, clean, cheap, and signposted in English—your main mode of transport. Iconic double-decker trams ("ding dings") on Hong Kong Island cost a flat HK$3. Star Ferry across the harbour is a scenic bargain at under HK$5. Taxis are metered and reasonable for short hops.