The Star Ferry & harbour tours

The Star Ferry has crossed Victoria Harbour between Central/Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui since 1888, and remains one of the best-value experiences in the city — a working commuter service that also happens to be one of the best short journeys anywhere for the price of a token fare.

Why it's worth doing deliberately

It's easy to default to the MTR for the same crossing, but the Star Ferry gives a sea-level view of the skyline the MTR simply can't — best timed for either sunset or after dark, when the buildings' lights are at their most striking.

Harbour tours

Beyond the ferry itself, a range of operators run longer harbour cruises, from simple sightseeing boats to traditional junk-rigged vessels styled after Hong Kong's historic fishing boats, some including the nightly light show synced to music.

The Tsim Sha Tsui promenade

After crossing, the waterfront promenade running past the Avenue of Stars gives an easy, flat walk with an unobstructed view back at the Island — a natural pairing with the ferry crossing itself.