Victoria Peak

A visit to Victoria Peak should be the first stop on all itineraries. The iconic carnation-red funicular tram that runs from Central to the top of the Peak has been doing so since 1888. The ride affords views of the shrinking skyscrapers as you make your way toward the highest, and most dramatic, point on Hong Kong Island. The top, apart from offering a thrilling, near-vertical views, also allows a chance to see the layout of the city.

Immediately below the Peak are the skyscrapers of the Central district, followed by the impossibly busy harbor, with a cast of nautical characters that include hulking container ships and tiny sampans. Beyond sit the promenade of Tsim Sha Tsui and the imposing mountains of Kowloon.

Most people enjoy the view from the Peak Tower but, given time, the 2.2-mile walk around the tree-lined pathway is worthwhile. The Peak Tower, said by some to resemble an upside-down wok, is ostensibly a massive mall. Expect to share the space with lots of tour groups, in particular busloads of happy snappers from the People’s Republic.