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How to Get to Victoria

How to Get to Victoria

Victoria Central And Western, Hong Kong Travel Guide

Air Travel

Hong Kong International Airport HKIA

HKIA (airport code: HKG) is the only international airport serving Hong Kong. Located on Chek Lap Kok island, it consistently ranks among the world's busiest and best airports.

Airport Details

  • Major Carriers: Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, Greater Bay Airlines.
  • Extensive global routes: Strong connections to Asia, North America, Europe, Australia.
  • Seasonal prices: Higher during Oct-Dec and major holidays. Dollar Flight Club for deal alerts.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

HKIA is a large international hub with extensive facilities, prioritizing passenger comfort. Various options mean smooth transfers to your city accommodation.

Transfers to City

  • Airport Express (MTR): Fastest to Central (24 min, HKD 115).
  • Public Buses: Cheaper, slower but scenic (e.g., A11, A12 to Central).
  • Taxis: Red taxis to Hong Kong special administrative region Island (HKD 350-400 + tunnel fees).
  • Free shuttle bus from Airport Express stations to major hotels.

Free Wi-Fi

HKIA offers free Wi-Fi throughout its terminals.

Duty-Free Shopping

Extensive duty-free options at HKIA.

In-Terminal Hotel

Regal Airport Hotel connected to HKIA Terminal 1.

Flight Search & Deals

Finding Flights

  • Use platforms like Skyscanner for comparing prices.
  • Sign up for flight deal alerts from Dollar Flight Club.
  • Flexibility with dates often results in better fares.
  • Consider off-peak periods for potentially lower prices.

Departure Information

  • Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights.
  • Utilize in-town check-in for Airport Express passengers (select airlines).
  • Airport Construction Fee (HKD 70-180) typically included in ticket price.
  • No separate exit fees apply for air travelers.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

MTR connects HKIA to Central. High-Speed Rail at West Kowloon Station connects Hong Kong to the main landmass Chinese cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

Long-Distance Buses

Cross-border buses operate between Hong Kong special administrative region and various mainland Chinese cities, using land crossings.

Self-Driving

Driving is on the left. Car rental is not common for visitors in Central plus Occidental due to excellent public transport and high parking costs. DiscoverCars.com for international rental options.

Sea & River Arrivals

Ferry Services

Hong Kong's harbor facilitates extensive ferry services to nearby islands and Macau. Terminals are well-connected to land transport.

Ferry Terminals

  • Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal (Sheung Wan) for Macau and mainland.
  • Central Ferry Piers for outlying islands (Lamma, Cheung Chau, Lantau).
  • Cruise Ports: Ocean Terminal (Tsim Sha Tsui) and Kai Tak Where The cruise ships dock.

Immigration & Connections

Immigration procedures at seaports are similar to the airport. Convenient connections ensure easy onward travel from ferry terminals.

Procedures & Onward Travel

  • Present passport, immigration form (if applicable), and visa (if required).
  • Ferry ports connect properly to MTR and public bus networks.
  • Easy access for onward travel to accommodation or other city areas.

River Travel

River transportation is not applicable for Hong Kong as a destination. Hong Kong is mainly a coastal city with its transportation focused on sea and land routes.

Considerations

  • No river transportation within Hong Kong.
  • Focus on marine transport to isles or mainland.
  • Consider alternative transportation options for inland travel.

Border Crossings

For entry from mainland China, several land crossings facilitate travel. These include specific stations and bridges connecting Hong Kong to its neighbors.

Mainland China Access

  • Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau Spur Line for MTR connections.
  • Shenzhen Bay and Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.
  • High-Speed Rail via West Kowloon Station.

Travel Safety Reminders

  • Be aware of traffic congestion in urban areas.
  • Driving in Hong Kong can be challenging for the unaccustomed.
  • Pedestrians must use designated crossings and remain alert.
  • Typhoon season (May-Nov) brings heavy rain and high winds.
  • Heavy rainfall increases landslide risk in hilly areas.
  • Follow official warnings and instructions from local authorities.

Airport Facilities

Passenger Amenities

HKIA offers comprehensive facilities for both arriving and departing travelers. Its design considers passenger comfort and convenience.

Services

  • Duty-free shopping and a diverse range of dining options.
  • Airport lounges for relaxation and work.
  • Free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminals.

Essential Support

Beyond leisure, HKIA provides critical support services. These range from medical assistance to religious facilities, making travel easier for all.

Support Facilities

  • Medical services available on-site.
  • Prayer rooms cater for various faiths.
  • In-terminal hotel (Regal Airport Hotel) for convenience.

Customer Service

Information desks and helpful staff.

Photo Opportunities

Views of runways and aircraft from observation areas.

Currency Exchange

Exchange services readily available.

Onward Regional Travel

High-Speed Rail

The West Kowloon High-Speed Rail Station, found in the Central and Western District, offers fast and efficient connections to various cities in mainland China.

Destinations

  • Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Shanghai are destinations.
  • Significant time savings when compared to other land routes.
  • Book tickets in advance, particularly during busy travel periods.

Cross-Border Buses

An alternative for regional travel, cross-border buses connect Hong Kong to various mainland Chinese cities, using established land crossings.

Bus Routes

  • Routes operate via land crossings like Lo Wu and Shenzhen Bay.
  • Often a more economical option for specific destinations.
  • Ensure you have correct visa/entry documents for mainland China.

Macau & Ferry Connections

Macau Ferries

High-speed ferries regularly connect Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal to Macau.

Travel Time

Ferry trips to Macau take approximately 1 hour.

Border Control

Immigration procedures apply for entry into Macau.

Travel Planning Tip

Before embarking on regional travel, check the latest entry requirements for your destination (e.g., Macau or mainland China), comprising any necessary visas.