Top Places to Visit in Hong Kong on a Private Car Tour
Hong Kong is a city that blends ancient traditions with modern energy. Known for its dramatic skyline, bustling harbors, and rich cultural heritage, it’s a destination that offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore further, a Private Car Tour is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to see the city. With the help of a knowledgeable private guide, visitors can experience the highlights of Hong Kong in just one day, while learning about the stories and significance behind each site. Below is the best example of places you can visit from the Hong Kong island!
Explore the vibrant heart of Hong Kong with our thoughtfully curated private car tour.
A great way to begin the tour is with breakfast at Lin Heung Tea House in Sheung Wan. This traditional Chinese tea house has been serving classic Cantonese dim sum since 1926 and is one of the last places in Hong Kong to preserve the old-school push-cart service. Inside, the atmosphere is busy and authentic, with locals reading newspapers and chatting over pots of tea. A stop here allows visitors to not only sample a variety of steamed dumplings, buns, and rice rolls, but also observe a living tradition of Hong Kong’s culinary culture.
Moving on to the Central banking district, visitors can explore the heart of Hong Kong’s role as a global financial hub. The area is home to some of the most iconic skyscrapers in Asia, including the HSBC Building and the Bank of China Tower. Along the pavements and open spaces, there are photo stands and interpretive displays that explain Hong Kong’s transformation from a small fishing village to an international trading and banking powerhouse. This part of the tour offers a deeper understanding of the city’s economic foundation and its enduring global influence.
A short ride away is the Central–Mid-Levels Escalator, the longest outdoor covered escalator system in the world. Stretching over 800 meters, it connects the central business district with the mid-levels residential area. Riding the escalator gives visitors a unique perspective on Hong Kong’s hilly terrain, along with views of charming alleyways, cafes, and local shops. It’s also an example of how the city’s urban planning creatively adapts to its geography.
One of the most fascinating stops is Tai Kwun, a heritage complex that used to be the Central Police Station, Central Magistracy, and Victoria Prison. This site has been carefully restored and turned into a cultural and arts space while maintaining its original colonial architecture. A visit here allows people to explore the evolution of Hong Kong’s legal and law enforcement system under British rule, with historical exhibits and preserved prison cells that reveal the city’s past justice system. Today, Tai Kwun also hosts contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events, making it a blend of past and present.
Not far away is Man Mo Temple, one of the oldest and most revered Taoist temples in Hong Kong. Built in 1847 during the early colonial era, the temple is dedicated to Man Cheong, the god of literature, and Mo Tai, the god of war. Traditionally, students would pray here for success in exams. The temple is filled with hanging incense coils and richly decorated altars, creating a serene yet mysterious atmosphere. It’s a peaceful place to reflect on local spiritual practices and Taoist traditions that continue to thrive in modern Hong Kong.
Driving along Hollywood Road, one of the oldest streets on Hong Kong Island, visitors pass antique shops, historic buildings, and modern art galleries. This road has long been known for its trade in Chinese antiques and colonial-era artifacts. Just off Hollywood Road is Ladder Street, a steep stairway lined with stone steps and old-style buildings. This street reflects the physical and cultural layers of the city, where old temples, colonial remnants, and contemporary murals exist side by side. It’s a great place to see how Hong Kong’s heritage is preserved amid urban development.
A must-see highlight is Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island. Reached by a scenic drive, the Peak Galleria lookout offers sweeping views of the city’s skyscrapers, Victoria Harbour, and beyond. The Peak has long been a symbol of status and luxury — in colonial times, only the elite were allowed to live there. Today, it’s one of the most visited places in Hong Kong and a perfect spot for panoramic photos. With a private guide, visitors can learn about the transformation of the area and the engineering behind the Peak Tram and its surrounding development.
Crossing over to Kowloon via the harbour tunnel brings travelers to Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, where the famous Bruce Lee statue stands proudly. This site honors the legendary martial arts actor and his connection to Hong Kong cinema. The promenade itself offers some of the best views of the city’s skyline, especially at sunset. Along the walkway, visitors can learn about Hong Kong's film industry and its cultural impact on the world through installations and star plaques.
The Clock Tower nearby is a historic reminder of the old Kowloon-Canton Railway terminus, built in 1915. It stands next to the Star Ferry Pier, a functioning transport link that has been in operation since the late 19th century. These landmarks are part of Hong Kong’s colonial heritage and offer insight into the city’s transport history and maritime importance. Just across the road is the Peninsula Hotel, one of the most luxurious hotels in Asia. Opened in 1928, it has hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries, and is known for its elegant afternoon teas and Rolls-Royce fleet.
A Private Car Tour of Hong Kong makes it easy to explore these varied sites in comfort, with the added benefit of a private guide who brings the city’s stories to life. From ancient temples and colonial buildings to modern skylines and cultural icons, this tour is ideal for anyone looking to experience the best of Hong Kong in a personalized and efficient way.