2026-10
Buy an Octopus at the airport or MTR customer service / convenience stores. It rides the MTR, buses and most ferries, and pays at convenience stores and many restaurants. Tourist vs regular cards have different rules — read the leaflet. Refunds follow official fees. In 2026 phone Octopus / contactless options are more common, but a physical card is still the simplest for short trips.
For cross-district hops, the MTR is predictable with clear English signs. Taxis shine late at night, with heavy luggage or door-to-door needs — but traffic and tunnel tolls add up.
Worth it with luggage, tight connections, or a direct ride to Hong Kong / Kowloon stations. On a tight budget with spare time, Airport buses (A routes) are cheaper.
Malls and most restaurants take cards and mobile pay; wet markets and tiny stalls may still want cash or Octopus. You do not need stacks of HKD for a short visit, but keep small notes for snacks and markets.
Roughly May–November can bring tropical cyclones. At Signal No. 8 or above, much transport and entertainment shuts. Check the Hong Kong Observatory and keep a backup indoor day.
See Transport & arrival, Practical and Itineraries.