Victoria Peak stands as the highest point on Hong Kong Island. Many travel to Hong Kong just for its magnificent view. It offers a spectacular panorama of the city’s skyline, the harbor, and the neighboring islands.
At its summit, there are various attractions for visitors, like the Sky Terrace 428, Madame Tussauds wax museum, the Peak Tower, and the Peak Galleria. There is also a residential area on Victoria Peak with a rich heritage dating all the way back to the 19th century.
Here are some things you must know about Victoria Peak as you plan your Hong Kong tour.
Victoria Peak Facts
- Location: Central and Western District, Hong Kong Island
- Elevation: 1811 ft (552m)
- Opening Hours:
- The Peak Tower and the Peak Galleria: 10 am-10 pm daily
- The Peak Tram: 7 am-12 am daily, with a frequency of every 10 to 15 minutes
- Tickets:
- Peak Tram Sky Pass (a round-trip on the Peak Tram and access to the Sky Terrace 428): HK$99 for adults, HK$47 for children/seniors
- Peak Tram-only: HK$45 for adults, HK$20 for children/seniors
- No additional cost if you are taking a bus or a taxi, or if you’re hiking to the Peak
- Recommended visit time: from one hour to half a day
- Best time of the day: on a clear day, particularly in the early morning or evening hours for the best view of the sunrise, sunset, or the skyline at night
- Features: scenic views, history, culture, shopping, and dining
Victoria Peak – What to See and Do
Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak offers something for every visitor. Here you can find what you came for and more:
1. Enjoy the Beautiful View from the Summit
Take a stroll to the observation lookouts situated at the summit. Take in the breathtaking scenery standing on the highest 360-degree viewing platform in Hong Kong, the Sky Terrace 428.
Aside from the natural scenery, there are also cultural sights such as the Lions View Point Pavilion and the historic site of the governor’s former summer lodge. Additionally, there are two shopping malls, the Peak Tower and the Peak Galleria, with observation decks that provide remarkable views.
2. Ride the Hong Kong Victoria Peak Tram
Embark on a memorable journey by riding the iconic Peak Tram that has been in operation since 1888. As the first cable railway in Asia and one of the steepest globally, the Peak Tram transports passengers from Central to the Peak in just 8 minutes. Sit back and enjoy the view as the tram climbs up to 1,300 feet above sea level.
3. Take a Hike
If you are physically fit and want to engage closely with the beauty of nature, hiking up to Victoria Peak is also a popular option. There are a few different routes, the Morning Trail, Old Peak Road, and the Hong Kong Trail Section One. Depending on how fast you hike and the trail, it will take about one to two hours to reach the top.
4. Enjoy the Evening Sunset
Experience the sunset on Victoria Peak and the atmosphere of the moment. Watch the city lights come to life, lighting up the skyline and the harbor. Moreover, enjoy the Symphony of Lights, a multimedia light show with colorful beams and music that are synchronized from buildings on the sides of Victoria Harbor.
5. Relax at the Restaurants and Cafes
Satisfy your taste buds at the various restaurants and cafes at the Peak Tower or the Peak Galleria that serve a variety of cuisines. You have plenty of options to find something that suits your mood, from casual to romantic. Or consider patronizing the nearby Peak Lookout, a distinguished structure that once served as a police station.
6. Shop at the Peak Tower or the Peak Galleria
Inside the Peak Tower and the Peak Galleria, you will find a variety of souvenirs, gifts, clothing, accessories, and more. You can also pay a visit to Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, a renowned wax museum showcasing an amazing collection of over 100 celebrities and historical figures.
Best Time to Visit Victoria Peak and Hong Kong
The best time to travel to Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak is generally considered the months of January, February, April, and October through December.
Hong Kong experiences distinctive seasons and has an overall warm and humid climate. The average temperature ranges from 61°F (16°C) in January to 84°F (29°C) in July. During the rainy season, which is usually May to September, Hong Kong sees frequent thunderstorms and typhoons.
The Victoria Peak can be crowded on weekends or holidays. To ensure a better experience and avoid long queues, it is advisable to visit on a weekday or during the early morning. Booking your tickets online in advance can also save you valuable time.
For an optimal view of the city and harbor, it is recommended to visit Victoria Peak on clear days, preferably during the morning or evening to avoid intense UV exposure. Early mornings and evenings are also desirable times for a view of the sunrise or sunset.
How to Get to Victoria Peak
Aside from taking the Peak Tram or hiking up the Victoria Peak, there are other transportation options.
Bus
For a more economical option that avoids potential Peak Tram queues, taking the bus is recommended. Boarding bus No. 15 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus in Central or Admiralty MTR Station Exit C1 allows for a budget-friendly ride. The bus journey typically takes around 40 minutes, stopping at the Peak Galleria.
The bus operates daily from 6:15 am to 12:15 am, with a frequency of every 7 to 15 minutes. The bus fare is HK$9.8 for adults and HK$4.9 for children/seniors on weekdays, or HK$12.4 for adults and HK$6.2 for children/seniors on weekends and public holidays. Cash or Octopus card payment is accepted.
Taxi
Taxis provide an alternative for a more comfortable and flexible travel experience.
Hailing a taxi from the city or booking one online or by phone at any time allows for a personalized ride. Taxi fares vary depending on distance, time, and traffic conditions, generally ranging from HK$80 to HK$100 for a trip from Central to Victoria Peak. The is usually about 20 minutes. You can ask to be dropped off at either the Peak Tower or the Peak Galleria.
Attractions nearby Victoria Peak
- Victoria Peak Garden is a quiet park near the summit of Victoria Peak, if you are looking for a scenic view away from the crowds. (Free admission)
- Peak Circle Walk is a picturesque hiking trail around Victoria Peak. Apart from a beautiful view of Hong Kong, you might be lucky enough for some wildlife sightings.
- Madame Tussauds Hong Kong features over 100 celebrities and historical figures, as well as their life stories. Visitors are welcome to pose and take photographs with the wax figures and enjoy the interactive experience. (Ticket price: HK$290 for adults, HK$210 for children/seniors)
- Trick Eye Museum Hong Kong offers a fun and immersive experience with 3D art and augmented reality effects. It is a great place to spend the afternoon with your children. (Ticket price: HK$150 for adults, HK$100 for children/seniors) (Note: Permanently closed!)
