Hong Kong is on many people’s bucket list and over the years has gained popularity.

I managed to visit just before the unrest started back in 2019, but hopefully things will calm done and lots of tourist will go and visit again. It is a very interesting and unusual region.

Hong Kong has lots to offer and if you are travelling on a budget, there are a few attractions and sights that are free and absolutely worth visiting.

Some of them are even on the top 10 list of things to do in Hong Kong.

1. HONG KONG MUSEUM OF HISTORY

I always go to the history museums of the countries that I visit as I find it interesting to learn about the culture and history.

The Hong Kong Museum of History is very visual and engaging. The museum has video theaters throughout the building that teaches people about traditions, rituals and of course the different periods of history.

It is definitely worth a visit.

2. VICTORIA PEAK

One of the most famous attractions in Hong Kong is of course Victoria Peak, famous for the amazing view you get of Hong Kong.

You can actually hike up Victoria Peak, which does not take too long and of course does not cost a penny.

3. HONG KONG ZOOLOGICAL MUSEUM AND BOTANICAL GARDEN

Located in the middle of Hong Kong Park you can find the Zoological Museum and Botanical Garden. Both attractions are next to each other and free to enter. They are not big at all, but a nice addition to the park.

The Zoological Museum has a few enclosures that contain mostly different types of monkeys and birds. The Botanical Garden is a greenhouse with different types of plants such as orchids.

4. TEA MUSEUM

I am a tea drinker and Asian countries are of course well known for their tea culture. I had to visit this museum! It you are interested in tea, this museum should be on your list.

It is not too big but has exhibitions about the different types of teas, how to brew them and what their properties are and of course where they come from. The Tea Museum is also located in Hong Kong Park.

Sometimes the museum may have special exhibitions, for instance local school children making tea cups and letting their creativity go wild to engage them in traditions and culture again.

5. SYMPHONY OF LIGHTS

The famous Symphony of Lights show is on every night at 8 pm. The light show can be best watched from Tsim Sha Tsui side by the Star Ferry Pier close to the Clock Tower. They even have some rails there, which you can either sit on or lean against.

6. STREET MARKETS

There are several Street Markets located throughout Hong Kong and you will definitely come across a few.

I personally did not go to one as I am a picky eater and the food there is a bit too experimental for my liking.

7. PO LIN MONASTERY AND TIAN TAN BUDDHA

Both attractions are situated on Lantau Island and can be viewed more or less free of charge.

You have to pay an entrance fee to climb up the 268 steps and get close to the Tian Tan Buddha. But if you just want to see it from afar or do not want to climb all those stairs, you can admire the Buddha statue completely for free.

The statue was erected in 1993 and is 34 meters high. The hand gestures and facial expressions deliver a blessing.

The Po Lin Monastery is one of Hong Kong’s most important Buddhist sacred sites. It is accessible to visitors and they can walk around freely. Still, it is a place of worship and everyone needs to be mindful as people come there to pray.

8. EXPLORE ONE OF THE MANY HIKES

Hong Kong is great for taking a hike. Every little island has its own trails and the scenery and nature is just fantastic.

Some are easy and some are a bit more challenging. But there is walk for everyone. I took on the challenge of climbing the Lantau Peak.

Just make sure you take sun screen, plenty of water and depending on the hike a jacket. When you reach a certain altitude the weather can change rapidly.

9. CHI LIN NUNNERY AND GARDEN

This is such a gem in my opinion as the building and garden are stunning. The Chi Lin Nunnery is a temple complex and was established in 1934, but renovated in the Tang dynasty style in 1990.

It hosts a collection of different Buddhist relics and statues, some made out of wood and others out of gold. It also had a selection of interesting and pretty plants including lotus ponds and different bonsai trees.

The garden is a well planned public park with lots of different features. There is a small pagoda, perfectly shaped trees, exhibition spaces and even a tea house. It is a very relaxing and calming space.

10. A DAY AT THE BEACH

When I went, I was very unfortunate with the weather as it was raining 4 out of the 5 days I was in Hong Kong. I really wanted to go to the beach after a hike, but it was just not possible.

Beaches can be found all across Hong Kong and most of them are accessible via public transport. Therefore, if the weather is great, a plunge might be a good option.

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