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Hong Kong Travel Guide

Kowloon vs. Hong Kong Island: Which Side Should You Stay On?

By Fred Edward on April 19, 2025

Planning a trip to Hong Kong and not sure whether to stay in Kowloon or on Hong Kong Island? You’re not alone—this is one of the most common questions travelers ask, and the good news is… you really can’t go wrong. But depending on your travel style, one side might suit you just a little better. Let’s break it down.

Kowloon: For Culture, Street Eats & Buzzing Markets
Kowloon is vibrant, colorful, and packed with local flavor. Think neon signs, bustling night markets, and mouthwatering street food. Staying in areas like Tsim Sha Tsui or Mong Kok puts you close to must-sees like the Temple Street Night Market, the Avenue of Stars, and sweeping views of the Hong Kong skyline from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. If you're into bargain shopping, authentic eats, and a slightly grittier, more “real” vibe—Kowloon is your place.

Hong Kong Island: For Skyscrapers, Nightlife & Iconic Views
Hong Kong Island is the city’s polished, cosmopolitan side. It’s home to the Central business district and upscale shopping in Causeway Bay. You'll find iconic attractions like Victoria Peak and the super-efficient Mid-Levels Escalators. If you like fine dining, rooftop bars, and easy MTR access, staying on the island might be your best bet.

The Verdict?
Honestly, you can’t go wrong. The Star Ferry makes it super easy (and scenic) to hop between the two. Want a more local, energetic vibe? Kowloon wins. Prefer modern comforts and sleek city life? Go with Hong Kong Island.

Still can’t decide? Split your stay and enjoy both worlds—Hong Kong is compact and easy to explore either way!

Inside Hong Kong’s World-Class Cocktail Bar Scene

Hong Kong might be famous for its skyline and street food, but its cocktail bar scene is making serious waves on the global stage—and it’s not just locals who’ve noticed. Several bars in the city are consistently featured on the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Bars list, and for good reason.

Step into any of these award-winning spots and you’ll find more than just drinks—you’ll experience craft, creativity, and some serious cocktail theater. Coa, a mezcal-focused bar in the heart of Central, has topped the Asia list multiple times and is often ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars as well. It's dimly lit, effortlessly cool, and a paradise for agave lovers.

Another standout is ARGO, located in the Four Seasons, known for its “combinations” menu highlighting cocktails that use fruits and botanicals available in Hong Kong. Then there’s Darkside, located in the Rosewood Hong Kong on the Kowloon “dark side,” offers an elegant experience with dark spirits, cigars, chocolate, live music, and stunning views of Victoria Harbour.

But it’s not all high-concept. Hong Kong’s bar scene thrives on contrast. You’ll find hidden speakeasies behind unmarked doors, neighborhood bars with a cult following, and rooftop lounges with jaw-dropping harbor views.

If you love cocktails, Hong Kong is a must-sip destination. Whether you're a seasoned spirits connoisseur or just want a great drink in a stylish setting, the city’s bartenders are ready to impress.

Where to Eat (& Drink) in Hong Kong

ARGO. Address: 8 Finance St, Central, Hong Kong
The Aubrey. Address: 5 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong
Bar Leone. Address: 11-15 Bridges St, Central, Hong Kong
Blend & Grind Mid-Levels. Address: Shop A2, 1 Princes Terrace Central, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong
COA. Address: Shop A, LG/F Wah Shin House, 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central, Hong Kong, Central, Hong Kong
DarkSide. Address: Victoria Dockside, 2/F, Rosewood, 18 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Dim Dim Sum Jordan. Address: Hong Kong, Jordan, 佐敦文匯街28號文景樓地下
HOT-STAR Large Fried Chicken (Take Away). Address: Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Science Museum Rd, 14號, New Mandarin Plaza Tower B, 地下G61號鋪
Mostly Harmless. Address: 2 f, 110 Queen's Rd W, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
N1 Coffee & Co. (Tsim Sha Tsui). Address: 34 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
NOC Coffee Co. (Tsim Sha Tsui East). Address: G35-37, G43-47A G/F, Empire Centre, 68 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Penicillin. Address: L/G, Amber Lodge, 23 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong
Quinary. Address: 56, 58 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong
Sang Roastery (Central). Address: 66 Staunton St, Central, Hong Kong
The Savory Project. Address: 4 Staunton Street, Soho, Central, Hong Kong
SHARI SHARI Kakigori House (Tsim Sha Tsui). Address: G/F, 83-85A Chatham Rd S, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Temple Street Night Market. Address: Temple St, Jordan, Hong Kong
Vesu Pizza Bar. Address: 30/F, One Peking, Peking Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong