Hong Kong Airport: Transport, Services and Travel Tips

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is one of Asia's busiest aviation hubs. It's located on the artificial island of Chek Lap Kok, just 34 km (21 miles) from the city centre.

Whether you're arriving for a short stopover or a longer trip, getting to the city centre is a breeze thanks to the Airport Express, Cityflyer buses, taxis, or rental cars.

To ensure you're fully prepared, Trip.com has put together a comprehensive guide to Hong Kong International Airport just for you: discover the best ways to get to the city centre and get all the practical info you need for a stress-free trip!

About Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Hong Kong International Airport (IATA: HKG, ICAO: VHHH) is located on the island of Chek Lap Kok, just about 34 km (21 miles) from the city centre.

The airport spans approximately 1,255 hectares (around 1,800 standard football pitches), ranking among the largest and busiest airports in the world, handling both passenger and cargo traffic.

The airport has two main terminals:

• Terminal 1: Handles most long-haul and full-service international flights
• Terminal 2: Will reopen on 27 May 2026 with enhanced smart check-in facilities. Fifteen airlines (including HK Express, Hong Kong Airlines, and Greater Bay Airlines) will relocate their check-in counters from T1 to T2 in phases from 27 May to 10 June 2026.

📌 Note: T2 primarily serves short-haul and regional routes. Long-haul flights will continue to operate from Terminal 1.

Transport to and from Hong Kong Airport

Getting to Hong Kong city centre is easy, with several options available depending on how much time you have, your budget, or the size of your group.

Here are the best ways to get around from Hong Kong Airport:

If you're spending a few days in Hong Kong, the Octopus card is an absolute must-have – perfect for public transport, grabbing snacks at convenience stores, or picking up a quick meal.

Make the Most of Your Stay in Hong Kong with an Octopus Card

With the Octopus card, there's no need to fumble for loose change or work out the exact fare. Plus, it offers discounts on certain transport routes. You can use it on the MTR, buses, trams, and ferries, and even make contactless payments in convenience stores, restaurants, or supermarkets.

Where can you get them?

You can pick up your Octopus card as soon as you arrive at the airport from counter A13 in the arrivals hall (08:00–21:00), or at West Kowloon Station at counter B2-15 (09:30–17:30). The card costs approximately 120 HKD (~£12) and comes pre-loaded with credit, so you're ready to start exploring straight away!

How do you use them?

It's simple – just hold your card against the card reader until you hear a beep. The correct amount will be deducted instantly.

Top up card

Once your credit runs out, you can top up your card at thousands of locations across the city:

• MTR stations (self-service kiosks or ticket counters)
• 7-Eleven and OK Stores
• Supermarkets like Watsons and Mannings
• Fast-food restaurants like McDonald's

If you have any credit left at the end of your trip, you can get a cash refund at any MTR station (except at the Airport Express counters). Simply hand over your card at the counter.

Hong Kong Airport to the City Centre By Taxi

Just like at any destination in Asia or elsewhere, a taxi is the ideal choice if you have lots of luggage, are travelling with family, or simply want to avoid public transport. It might not be the cheapest option, but the comfort is unbeatable – just hop in and enjoy the ride!

📌 Trip.com tip: Make sure you have some cash on you, as most drivers don't accept cards. Also, show your address in Cantonese to avoid any misunderstandings.

How much does it cost?

• To the city centre or Kowloon: 300–400 HKD (~£30–£40), depending on traffic
• Potential surcharges: around 50 HKD (~£5) for the airport fee and 15–30 HKD (~£1.50–£3) per piece of luggage. Please note that these surcharges may or may not apply, depending on the taxi.

Where can you find taxis at the airport?

Head to the designated taxi zones outside the arrivals hall, which are colour-coded for your convenience:

• Red taxis: urban areas such as Kowloon and Hong Kong Island
• Green Taxis: New Territories
• Blue Taxis: Lantau Island

Best app for booking a taxi

Download the HKTaxi app for a seamless experience. It's available in English and lets you book a taxi, track your ride, and pay electronically – completely cashless!

MTR Airport Express: Fastest Way from Hong Kong Airport to the City Centre

If you're looking for the quickest and most convenient way to get to the city centre, the Airport Express is undoubtedly your best bet.

This modern, air-conditioned train is a firm favourite with travellers for its speed, comfort, and reliability. You can reach the heart of Hong Kong in just 24 minutes!

How do I travel on the Airport Express?

Once you've landed, simply follow the signs in Terminal 1 to the "Airport Express" station. You can purchase tickets at the counters, from ticket machines, or online in advance. If you're using an Octopus card, just tap it at the turnstile. Trains depart every 10 minutes.

Here's how it works:

1. Buy your ticket: directly at the station, online, or using your Octopus card
2. Follow the signs: head to the Airport Express station in Terminal 1 – simply scan your QR code at the turnstile.
3. Hop on the train: departures every 10 minutes, so sit back, get comfortable, and enjoy the ride!

Airport Express route & timetable

Operating hours: daily from 05:54 to 01:15, with departures every 10 minutes.

Information is subject to change – please check the latest timetables on the MTR website.

Hong Kong Airport to the City Centre By Airport Bus

The airport bus in Hong Kong is an affordable and convenient way to get from the airport to numerous destinations across the city. The routes are organised by letter:

• Line A: Airport bus connecting the airport with urban areas
• Line E: Bus connections to outlying areas
• Line NA: Night express bus for late-evening travel
• Line N: regular night bus
• Line S: Shuttle buses connecting to and from the airport

Fares for airport buses and night express buses range from 4 to 50 HKD. Regular local buses are even cheaper, with prices between 15 and 30 HKD. Due to the extensive route network, it is recommended to consult the information desks upon arrival to check the latest timetables and routes.

Shuttles for residents

If you're staying in Discovery Bay or Park Island, getting to Hong Kong International Airport is a breeze thanks to the dedicated shuttle services. These buses run regularly, are budget-friendly, and whisk you straight to the airport without the hassle of changing connections.

• The Discovery Bay DB02R shuttle service runs daily from 05:30 to 03:30 for 48 HKD. Departing from the DB Plaza Bus Terminal, the journey takes around 30 minutes and includes a stop in Tung Chung.
• For Park Island residents, the NR334 shuttle service runs from 06:30 to 00:30 for 31.20 HKD, with stops at Cathay City and the airport's Carpark 1 Coach Station.

These shuttles are the perfect way to get to the airport quickly and stress-free. Check the timetables before you set off, travel light, and enjoy the ride.

Car Hire from Hong Kong Airport to the City Centre

A car hire gives you the freedom to explore Hong Kong at your own pace and visit those harder-to-reach spots, such as Lantau Island, the New Territories, or beautiful coastal areas.

Good news for British drivers: Hong Kong drives on the left, just like back home in the UK, making driving feel quite familiar!

How much does it cost?

Rental prices at the airport vary depending on the vehicle type. Here are a few guide prices:

• Small car: from approx. 880 HKD/day (approx. £88)
• Mid-size and large cars: from approx. 1,050 HKD/day (approx. £105)
• SUV: from approx. 1,050 HKD/day (approx. £105)
• Vans: from approx. 1,200 HKD/day (approx. £120)

How do you rent a car?

1. Search for a vehicle: Head over to the 'Car Rental' section on Trip.com, select Hong Kong International Airport as your pick-up location, and enter your travel dates.
2. Choose your car: Compare models, prices, and features, then click "Book"
3. Enter your details: Pop in the driver's information and select any insurance or extras you'd like.
4. Confirm your booking: Pay for your reservation and receive a confirmation email
5. Picking up your car: Head to the car rental desk at the airport to collect your vehicle.

Arrival Requirements in Hong Kong: Visa and Regulations

Great news for British and European travellers: Hong Kong has its own entry policy, independent of mainland China, and it's much more flexible!

Available options

Hong Kong has a very generous visa policy for tourists:

• Visa-free entry for 90 days: for citizens of most Western countries, including Switzerland, France, Belgium, Canada, and the European Union – no prior application required.
• Visa-free entry for 180 days: for British National (Overseas) citizens
• Transit without a visa: for all travellers with a connecting flight who do not leave the airport area

Requirements

To take advantage of visa-free entry to Hong Kong, you need to:

• Hold a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry
• Present a confirmed return or onward flight ticket
• Provide proof of sufficient funds for your stay
• Have no intention of working or living in Hong Kong

📌 Trip.com Tip: Hong Kong and mainland China are two separate territories with different entry requirements. If you're planning to visit Shenzhen or Guangzhou from Hong Kong, you'll need a separate Chinese visa – make sure to apply well in advance of your trip!

Hotels Near Hong Kong Airport with Free Shuttle

If you're catching an early morning flight or arriving in Hong Kong late at night, a hotel near the airport with a free shuttle can be a real lifesaver. Here are two excellent options close to the airport 🏩

Airport Lounges and Premium Areas in Hong Kong

If you're travelling through Hong Kong International Airport, VIP lounges are your ticket to a more comfortable and relaxing experience. The good news: Trip.com members enjoy complimentary access to select lounges, including those in Hong Kong!

Hong Kong Airport lounges by terminal

How can I get free lounge access with Trip.com?

Trip.com VIP members enjoy exclusive access to airport lounges worldwide, including Hong Kong International Airport. Depending on your subscription level, you may be eligible for complimentary access. Check your eligibility and find out how to activate your benefits!

Services and Facilities at Hong Kong Airport

Free Wi-Fi

Like most major airports, Hong Kong International Airport offers free public Wi-Fi throughout all terminals with no time limits. Simply connect to the "HKAirport Free WiFi" network and accept the terms and conditions – no code or password required!

💡 Trip.com tip: For even faster and more secure internet access outside the airport, you can purchase a Hong Kong eSIM on Trip.com before your trip, so you can stay online as soon as you land!

Public relaxation areas

The terminals at Hong Kong Airport feature several complimentary rest areas for all passengers:

• Sky Garden (T1): a green oasis filled with tropical plants, perfect for relaxing between flights.
• Aviation Discovery Centre (T2): a fun, educational space for families with children
• The Arcade (T1): a bustling shopping arcade with integrated seating areas

While these areas don't offer the food and drink services you'd find in paid lounges, they are still lovely spots to relax before your flight.

Essential local services

All terminals offer:

• ATMs and Currency Exchange
• Duty-free shops and a wide variety of dining options
• Pharmacies and 24/7 medical services
• Luggage Services and Baggage Wrapping
• Tourist information desk with maps, brochures, and tips

Restaurants and Duty Free at Hong Kong Airport

Hong Kong International Airport offers a fantastic variety of restaurants and duty-free shops across both its terminals.

Restaurants and Cafés

You'll find restaurants both before security and near the departure gates. Here's a quick look at your options:

• Starbucks and Pacific Coffee
• KFC and McDonald's
• Authentic Cantonese cuisine (dim sum, wonton, Cantonese barbecue)
• International cuisine (Japanese, Thai, Western)
• Bakeries and local patisseries

Duty-free shopping

Duty-free shops are available in both terminals. You'll find the most convenient stores located right after security.

Our offers include:

• Luxury goods (Hermès, Gucci, Dior, Burberry, Chanel)
• Duty-free alcohol and tobacco (whiskies, cognacs, wines, champagne)
• Souvenirs from Hong Kong (teas, jade products, figurines, local handicrafts)
• Electronics and high-tech gadgets
• Cosmetics and Perfumes

From the Airport to Hong Kong's Top Attractions

Here's a handy guide on how to easily reach Hong Kong's highlights straight from the airport:

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