Getting Around Hong Kong
How to get around Hong Kong like a local — the MTR, buses, trams, the Star Ferry, taxis and the Airport Express, plus the passes that save you money.
Hong Kong is one of the easiest cities in the world to get around
Between the MTR metro, double-decker buses, century-old trams, the Star Ferry and a fleet of red taxis, you can reach almost anywhere in Hong Kong quickly and cheaply. The trick is knowing which to use when — and tapping it all with a single card.
Start with an Octopus Card
One stored-value card covers the MTR, buses, trams, ferries and most shops. It's the first thing to sort out — see how to add an Octopus Card to Apple Wallet or where to buy one at the airport.
From the airport to the city
The Airport Express gets you to Hong Kong or Kowloon station in about 24 minutes, and it's the fastest option on arrival. If you're staying a while, an unlimited MTR pass can pay for itself.
Getting around once you're here
- MTR — fast, cheap, signed in English; your default for longer hops.
- Trams ("ding dings") — slow, scenic and a flat fare along Hong Kong Island.
- Star Ferry — the cheapest harbour cruise in the world between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui.
- Taxis — handy late at night; carry small cash and your destination in Chinese.
The guides below break down each option, what it costs, and the passes worth buying.