Are you looking for a quick break to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Whether you want to spend some time in nature or immerse yourself in culture and history, there are many places near Hong Kong that are perfect for a day trip. We’re listing the best day trips near Hong Kong for you to consider whenever you need.
Being a coastal city located at the southern tip of mainland China, Hong Kong has easy access to many neighboring cities. Thanks to the city’s strong transportation system, many places can be reached by bus, ferry, or train. In addition, Hong Kongers and tourists alike can take advantage of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and the Hong Kong West Kowloon Train Station, which gets them to their destination with minimal effort.
Below we’ve rounded up some of the best places near Hong Kong that make for a great quick stay.
Keep in mind: Buses, ferries and trains run on a specific schedule. Therefore, it is recommended to check the departure and arrival time before traveling. You can buy the tickets at the ports or at the stations. For more information, visit the official websites linked in the “Getting There” section below.
The best day trips near Hong Kong
Macau
Macau is the most popular destination for a day trip near Hong Kong. Our sister SAR may be known for its casinos, but it’s also packed with UNESCO heritage sites, which we don’t have in Hong Kong. While most Hong Kongers are familiar with the St. Paul Ruins, Lou Kau Mansion and Guia Fortress are also perfect for history and architecture buffs. This sleepy town also has several cafes and restaurants, which borrow elements from Portuguese cuisine. Expect to see quaint antique shops, magnificent colonial buildings, and charming cafes among cobblestone streets.
How to get there: Take the ferry from the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan. The trip takes approximately one hour. Click here to see the navigation schedule and the rate. Alternatively, you also take the shuttle bus from Hong Kong port to Macao in 40 minutes.
Shenzhen
Shenzhen is located just across the border from mainland China, making it an easy option for a day trip. Many Hong Kongers flock here for shopping thanks to the cheap and affordable products. Fortunately, the famous Dongmen Pedestrian Shopping Street is within walking distance from Lo Wu Station, the closest stop in Hong Kong. The place is not only packed with shops, but also with food stalls. Those looking for something modern and creative should head to the OCT-LOFT complex, a former television manufacturing base turned cultural space.
How to get there: take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Train Station and reach your destination within 20 minutes. You can also ride the MTR and get off at Lo Wu Station or Lok Ma Chau Station.
Zhuhai
While Zhuhai is closer to Macau, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge made travel into the city easy. Zhuhai is known for its beautiful coastlines, tropical beaches, and enchanting temples. Relax on the beaches of offshore islands like Dong’ao or Hebao, many of which are easily accessible by boat. Explore the bustling city center and choose from the bars and restaurants on Lotus Road or fill up on fresh seafood at Wanzai. We also recommend visiting the New Yuanming Palace, a replica of the same site in Beijing.
How to get there: Take the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge shuttle bus for about 40 minutes. You can also address the high speed ferry from Hong Kong China Ferry Terminal or Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal. Another option is to take the train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Train Station, transfer to Guangzhou South Station and head to Zhuhai Train Station. The trip takes about two hours.
Canton
This bustling metropolis was the capital of China not once but three times! One of the largest cities in the country, Guangzhou is loved for its subtropical climate. Considered the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, it’s no surprise that Guangzhou has more restaurants than any other Chinese city. In addition to being a food mecca, Guangzhou is also a shopper’s paradise and home to a myriad of temples.
How to get there: take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station to Guangzhou South Station. The trip lasts 50 minutes.
Best day trips near Hong Kong – Foshan
Considered the hometown of martial arts, Foshan is a must-see for those interested in history and culture. Kung Fu masters like Yip Man and Wong Fei Hung are from here. Foshan also has many examples of Lingnan architecture, such as Foshan Xintiandi, which has more than 20 historical preservations. Also, a trip to Foshan is not complete without visiting the Temple of the Ancestors, the Nanfeng Kiln, and the Liang Garden.
How to get there: take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station to Foshan West Railway Station. The journey takes about 90 minutes.
Best day trips near Hong Kong – Dongguan
In recent years, Dongguan is slowly transforming into a tourist hotspot for those seeking scenic sea views and interesting historical sites. Dongguan is home to the 800-year-old Nanshe and Tangwei villages that will make you travel back in time. With 94 historical buildings and 32 ancestral shrines, you’ll get an overview of Lingnan’s ancient architecture. When you are here, also visit the Keyuan Garden and the Hermitage Villa.
How to get there: take the high-speed train from Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station to Dongguan Humen Railway Station. Travel time is about 40 to 60 minutes. Alternatively, you can take normal trains from Hung Hom railway station, which takes 70 minutes.
What city are you going to visit next weekend?
