Big Bus Hong Kong Open Top Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

Hong Kong’s vibrant skyline, bustling streets, and scenic harbor views are legendary — and what better way to get a taste of it all than on the Big Bus Hong Kong Open Top Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour? This well-rated service offers a flexible way to see many of the city’s must-visit spots at your own pace. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, the convenience of hopping on and off at your chosen stops makes this tour appealing.

What caught our eye is the inclusion of three different routes, covering Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and Stanley, with access to a Star Ferry ride—a truly iconic experience in itself. Plus, the option to upgrade to a 48-hour pass with special add-ons like the Peak Tram or a Sampan Houseboat makes it versatile. But, as with any tour, there are some considerations to keep in mind, like potential wait times and the audio commentary’s depth.

This experience suits travelers who value flexibility and want a broad overview of the city’s highlights without rushing. It’s particularly good for those with limited time or who prefer navigating the city with minimal hassle, especially since the tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off. If you enjoy scenic rides, cultural stops, and discovering the city on your own terms, this could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing: Hop on, hop off at multiple stops along three different routes.
• Includes Star Ferry: Ride one of the most iconic boats connecting Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.
• Upgrade options: 48-hour tickets unlock add-ons like Peak Tram, Water Taxi, or Sampan Houseboat.
• Audio commentary in 9 languages: Provides insights but may feel minimal or basic, depending on reviews.
• Good value for money: With access to multiple routes, ferry, and optional upgrades, it’s a comprehensive way to explore.
• Potential wait times: Some reviews note longer waits, particularly on the Blue route, so plan accordingly.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

The Overall Experience

The Big Bus Hong Kong tour runs approximately two hours per route, but most travelers purchase a 24- or 48-hour ticket—a smart move if you want to explore at a relaxed pace. The open-top double-decker buses are a classic way to experience the city, offering panoramic views and a chance to see both modern skyscrapers and historic sites.

You start your journey at any of the stops, with boarding generally straightforward, especially near major transport hubs like the Central Ferry Pier. Many reviewers appreciate the free WiFi onboard and the audio commentary available in multiple languages, making it educational as well as scenic. However, some note that the info in the headsets is sometimes minimal or somewhat generic, so don’t expect a deep historical narrative—more of an overview.

Route Breakdown

The tour offers three main routes:

• Hong Kong Island (Red Route): This is the most central, taking you through key districts like Central, Admiralty, and Causeway Bay. It’s perfect for those wanting to see the business district, shopping hubs, and some cultural sites.

• Stanley (Green Route): This route ventures out to the south side, offering scenic views of Repulse Bay and Stanley Market. Reviewers love this route for the stunning coastal scenery and the chance to explore a more relaxed, local side of Hong Kong. Many, like Joanne, appreciated exploring areas they had never visited before.

• Kowloon (Blue Route): This route covers the bustling streets of Kowloon, including the famous Temple Street Night Market and the Avenue of Stars. Some reviews mention long wait times for buses on this route, especially at key stops like the Water Taxi and Ocean Park, which can be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule.

The Stops: Highlights and Practical Tips

• Central Ferry Pier No.7: Starting point for many, offering a classic Star Ferry ride included in your ticket. Reviewers mention that the ferry is “the best way to experience Hong Kong’s harbor,” and it’s been transporting passengers since 1888. Getting a seat on the open deck is highly recommended for the best views.

• Mid-Levels Escalator: A must-see for first-timers, this is the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system. It’s a lively, local corridor linking neighborhoods with shops, cafes, and street art. Many travelers enjoy hopping off here to explore on foot.

• Man Mo Temple: A charming historic site that offers a glimpse into traditional Hong Kong spirituality. While the commentary may be brief, the temple’s incense-filled atmosphere is worth a quick visit.

• Tai Kwun: A revitalized heritage site and cultural center set in a former police station complex. It’s a good stop for art lovers and those interested in Hong Kong’s colonial past.

• The Peak Tram: Included in the 48-hour upgrade, this vintage funicular offers spectacular views of the skyline and Victoria Harbour. Many reviewers, like Bronwyn, found this a highlight of their trip, especially when combined with the Sky Terrace 428.

• Stanley & Repulse Bay: These coastal stops are praised for their scenic beauty. Reviewers mention that the green route offers “beautiful scenery” and a chance to relax away from city buzz.

• Ocean Park & Aberdeen: Family-friendly stops, perfect for a day of fun or sightseeing about local fishing villages.

• Kowloon Highlights: Stops like Temple Street and Avenue of Stars offer a taste of local markets and entertainment. Some reviews point out long waits here, so patience is key.

The Extras: Upgrading For More

Your 48-hour ticket unlocks some popular add-ons:

• Peak Tram Special Combo: Skip the queues and enjoy the spectacular ride up Victoria Peak followed by entry to Sky Terrace 428, the highest viewing platform.

• Hong Kong Water Taxi or Sampan Houseboat: For a more intimate harbor experience, these add-ons provide a different perspective of the city’s waterside life.

Many reviewers found these options worthwhile, especially the Peak Tram combo, which saved time and offered incredible views.

The Practical Side

Ticket pricing at $53.01 per person offers good value when you consider the convenience of multiple routes, ferry rides, and optional upgrades. The tours run most of the day, but some reviews note long waits, especially on the Blue Route, so utilizing the live tracking app is highly recommended. The buses are generally punctual, but be prepared for possible delays during peak times or in traffic.

Children under 3 travel free, and the pass must be used consecutively over the chosen days, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll want to coordinate your start point with your accommodation’s location.

Review Insights and Authentic Feedback

From real travelers, the most praised aspects are the stunning views from the open-top buses and the good value for multiple routes and ferry rides. Several reviewers, like Tracey, recommend this especially for limited time, as it covers a lot without the hassle of multiple tickets or separate bookings.

However, some noted disappointing moments—such as the lack of detailed commentary (Julie) or long waits at key stops (Scott, David). One reviewer expressed frustration, believing the tour covered only one route rather than all three, highlighting the importance of clarifying expectations before booking.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a convenient, flexible way to get an overview of Hong Kong’s major sights. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic rides combined with the freedom to hop off and explore independently. It’s especially good for those on a tight schedule, as the multiple routes and ferry integration offer varied perspectives of the city.

If you enjoy good views and want to learn some quick facts about the city’s neighborhoods, you’ll find it engaging. However, if you’re after deep historical insights or guided tours, this might feel a bit surface-level. Still, upgrades like the Peak Tram are well worth considering to enhance the experience.

The Sum Up

The Big Bus Hong Kong hop-on hop-off tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to see the city without the stress of navigating public transport or hailing taxis. With three different routes, access to the iconic Star Ferry, and optional upgrades for scenic or cultural experiences, it caters well to travelers wishing to maximize their limited time.

While some may find the audio commentary underwhelming or the bus frequency less than ideal during busy periods, the overall value remains high—particularly for those eager to enjoy stunning vistas and efficient city exploration. It’s a solid choice for first-time visitors, families, or anyone who prefers a less hectic, more relaxed sightseeing method.

In the end, this tour balances cost, convenience, and scenic appeal, making it a reliable option for discovering the diverse faces of Hong Kong.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, children under 3 travel for free, and the flexible hop-on hop-off style makes it easy for families to explore at their own pace.

Does the ticket include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to start your tour from a designated stop or arrange your own transportation.

What are the main routes available?
You can choose from three routes: Hong Kong Island (Red), Stanley (Green), and Kowloon (Blue), each covering different parts of the city.

Can I buy a 24-hour or 48-hour ticket?
Yes, you can opt for either a 24-hour or 48-hour pass, with the longer option unlocking additional extras like scenic add-ons.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
The main tour cost is around $53.01 per person. Upgrades, like the Peak Tram or Sampan Houseboat, are optional and available with the 48-hour ticket.

Is the audio commentary in multiple languages?
Yes, it’s available in 9 languages. However, some reviews mention that the information is sometimes minimal.

What should I know about wait times?
Longer waits are possible, especially on the Blue Route and at popular stops. Using the live tracking feature on the app can help plan better.

Can I explore sites on foot after hopping off?
Absolutely. The stops are near major attractions, and many travelers enjoy wandering around neighborhoods, temples, markets, or scenic spots.

Is the tour worth the price?
Considering the multiple routes, ferry ride, and optional upgrades, many find it offers good value, especially if you want a broad overview without multiple separate tickets.

What should I pack for this tour?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, water, and comfortable shoes. The open-top buses are great for sunshine but offer little protection from rain.

In essence, the Big Bus Hong Kong tour provides a practical, scenic, and flexible way to experience this dynamic city — perfect for those wanting a broad, convenient overview with options to customize your adventure.