East Asia
Hong Kong
Hong Kong's night markets are where the city's haggling culture comes alive - if you enjoy the back-and-forth, you'll have fun, though prices can tumble so far after negotiation that it almost feels too easy for my taste. The food and the atmosphere are the real draw, dense and energetic in a way that rewards just wandering. Don't be thrown by the construction either; there always seems to be some underway whenever I visit, but in my experience it rarely snarls traffic the way you'd expect in a city this compact. Getting around is straightforward on the MTR, and an Octopus card covers transit, shops, and most small purchases.
Last updated May 2026
Money & Payments
Currency
HK$
Hong Kong Dollar
HKD
Cash Tip
Bills and coins are widely used.
Denominations range from 10¢ coins to HK$1,000 notes.
Some traditional wet markets and local eateries are cash-only.
Card Rating
How widely cards and contactless payments are accepted
8 / 10.0
The contactless Octopus card is accepted across public transport networks, convenience stores, and many restaurants. Credit cards are standard at hotels and large retail shops. Select traditional markets and small street vendors require physical currency.
Daily Budget
Estimated daily costs per person
Budget
Meals & Transit
HK$150–HK$270
Local cha chaan teng meals and street food (HK$30–$60 per meal). MTR and bus travel (HK$15–$30/day with Octopus card).
≈ $20–$35
Meals & Transit
HK$150–HK$270
≈ $20–$35
Local cha chaan teng meals and street food (HK$30–$60 per meal). MTR and bus travel (HK$15–$30/day with Octopus card).
Accommodation
HK$235–HK$430
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic guesthouses with shared facilities.
≈ $30–$55
Accommodation
HK$235–HK$430
≈ $30–$55
Hostel dorm beds, capsule hotels, or basic guesthouses with shared facilities.
Mid-Range
Meals & Transit
HK$390–HK$620
Dim sum restaurants and casual dining (HK$80–$150 per meal). Mix of MTR and Uber rides (HK$50–$100/day).
Entry & Documents
Visa Requirements
Check entry requirements for your passport
Select your passport to view visa requirements.
On the Ground
Power & Plugs
Voltage, frequency, and plug types
Type G220V50Hz
Bring a universal travel adapter to stay powered up regardless of plug type.
SIM Card Guide
Stay connected while traveling
Typical price range
HK$70–HK$150
≈ $9–$19 USD
Validity: 7-day tourist SIM
Practical Info
Apps & Getting Around
Essential apps and transport info
Transport
- MTR MobileForeigner-friendly
Official app for Hong Kong's MTR metro system. Route planner, real-time updates, and fare calculator. Essential for getting around.
- UberForeigner-friendly
Available in Hong Kong. Accepts international credit cards. Good alternative to taxis, especially for airport transfers.
Other
- OctopusForeigner-friendly
Digital Octopus card app for contactless payments on MTR, buses, ferries, convenience stores, and many restaurants. Provides transit and commercial payment capability.
Navigation
- Google MapsForeigner-friendly
Provides routing for public transport networks and pedestrian paths within Hong Kong.
Food
Before You Go
Rules & Restrictions
Important laws and customs to be aware of
Always verify current laws before travel. Laws can change and penalties vary.
Legal
- No smoking in all public indoor areas including restaurants, bars, shopping malls, and public transport. Designated smoking areas exist outdoors. Fines of HK$1,500 for violations.
- Drug laws are strict. Possession, trafficking, and use of illegal drugs carry severe penalties including long prison sentences.
- Littering carries fines of HK$1,500. Keep the city clean and use designated bins.
Cultural
- Remove shoes when entering someone's home. Modest attire is customary when visiting temples and religious sites.
Other
- Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and other standard international services function normally in Hong Kong without any network access restrictions or VPN requirements.
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