The best cheap things to do in Hong Kong right now

Hong Kong is a global art and cultural hub. While international fairs like Art Basel and Art Central and special exhibitions in museums require tickets, roaming Central to admire the latest street art from HKwalls, exploring numerous art exhibitions in various galleries, and visiting multiple outdoor installations is an experience that won't cost you a dime. Check out the large-scale Doraemon exhibition; free entry to the outdoor areas will continue until August 11. And visit the Inside Out 2: Emotion Playpark @Times Square running until September 1.

Ditch your four-walled restaurants, and bounce from food stall to food stall while stuffing your face with delicious, cheap eats. Known to locals as 'so gaai' (which literally translates to sweep street), you can enjoy a diverse snacking experience for less than $50. From egg waffles to cheung fun (rice noodle rolls) to fish balls and siu mai, the choice is yours.

Click here for a list of Hong Kong’s best street food essentials. 

If you have time to spare, spend an afternoon exploring Hong Kong Island on the tram. Also called ding-ding, Hong Kong trams are one of the cities' oldest modes of transportation. Though not the fastest way to get around the city, the tram ride ($3 per ride) is the perfect way to sightsee. From Kennedy Town to Shau Kei Wan, there are many things to see along the tracks. Stay on the tram and marvel at Central's skyscrapers, watch the people going to and from the busy stalls or ​​tenement buildings, or hop station by station to explore the nearest attractions in the area from the historic Western Market in Sheung Wan, Victoria Park on Causeway Bay, and Happy Valley Cemetery and racecourse. 

Hong Kong is a shopaholic's paradise, but if you need some retail therapy without emptying your piggy bank, skip the designer aisle and hit up the city's famous shopping streets, including the Mong Kok Ladies' Market for affordable fashion items, Temple Street Market for some eclectic bric-a-brac, Golden Computer Arcade in Sham Shui Po for deals on all sorts of electronics, or shop for accessories or fabrics at the district's relocated fabric market in Tung Chau Street.  

Click here for other cheap shopping recommendations. 

Dai pai dongs are synonymous with good cheap eats in Hong Kong. Fill up on congee, noodles, fried rice, and sweet soups at one of the city's iconic – though sadly dwindling in number – open-air food stalls, all without forking out more than $100. Despite their shabbiness and lack of air conditioning, dai pai dongs are the best way to experience a slice of old Hong Kong.

Hidden gardens in the city offer an excellent opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and enjoy the benefits of green spaces. These hidden gems are often free to visit and provide a peaceful retreat where you can breathe fresh air, relax, and enjoy a moment of tranquillity. Click the link below to discover a list of the best hidden green spaces in Hong Kong. 

Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour is one of the city's iconic attractions. While you can enjoy the beautiful harbour view from the best rooftop bars and restaurants in town, a stroll along photo-worthy piers and promenades can give you a cheaper yet scenic experience. Head down to the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, soak in the views and walk along the Avenue of Stars to check out over 100 handprint plaques of the city's most famous stars. Alternatively, you can stroll the Wan Chai promenade, glide on your rollerblades or skateboards, or dog-watch at the fenced pet park. There are two-seater and four-seater pedal boats in the area; if you're not up to shelling out $100 to $200 on the rides, sit by the dock and watch people cruise the harbour. Every night at 8pm, watch the skyline and harbour lit up with 'A Symphony of Lights', the world's largest permanent light and sound show. 

The world is familiar with Hong Kong's bustling metropolis, but only some are aware of all the scenic hiking routes we have in the city. Our concrete jungle is wrapped in lush verdant hills with magnificent islands and dramatic rock formations surrounding us, some just 15 to 30 minutes away from the main CBD. Whether you're a hiking novice or an expert hiker ready to check off some of Hong Kong's best hiking trails, we've outlined our favourites with tips and directions to help you on your way. Click below for a list of the best hiking trails in Hong Kong. Once you have conquered all these, you can add these alternative trails to your bucket list.

Hong Kong is home to some pretty awesome places to get moving outside. And enjoying a fun jog or a brisk walk will not cost you a cent. Go for the scenic routes and breathe in the city. Iconic runs in Hong Kong include the circuit around Victoria Peak – where you can appreciate panoramic views of the city below – or head for routes around the promenades to enjoy views of the famous harbour. 

Click here for a list of breathtaking routes perfect for your next workout.

If being on two wheels is more your speed, get your bikes ready, or rent one in the nearest bike shop and pedal around incredibly scenic landscapes. West Kowloon Art Park provides well-paved, flat biking trails overlooking the harbour. Visit the SmartBikes kiosks available throughout the park and rent bikes for $30 per hour. If you want to go somewhere in the countryside, take a short ferry ride to Cheung Chau, an island to the southwest of Hong Kong Island, famous for its bun festival. Cars are not allowed on the island, so the best way to explore it is on a bike. Around the isle, you can check out tons of hipster cafés and hidden shops.

Click here for a list of Instagrammable bike routes. 

Hong Kong provides one of the best public transport services in the world, but aside from the regular commute, you can also use our transportation to sightsee around the city. Our bus services cover almost every corner of Hong Kong, from bustling business districts to tranquil areas and hilly terrains. Bring your Octopus card, sit in front of the upper deck and soak in all the picturesque sights. Click here for a list of the best scenic bus rides in Hong Kong.