Hong Kong is one of those cities best understood from the water: Victoria Harbour separates Hong Kong Island from Kowloon, and the old Star Ferry remains one of the cheapest and most beautiful rides for a couple. Behind it are green mountains, double-decker trams, markets, temples, neon districts and a public transport network that ties it all together. It is also a city with its own rules, different from those of mainland China, and you should know them. We have not found any lifestyle venue, club or event in Hong Kong with a verifiable official website, so we recommend none. We include nothing related to sex tourism: it is a different field, with legal risk and the exploitation of people, and BarSwinger does not promote it.
What to do as a couple
Start with a walk along the harbour and, at dusk, find a viewpoint to watch the lights of the buildings on both shores. Take the funicular or tram up Victoria Peak for the panorama of the city. Wander the old neighbourhoods, with markets, shops and small temples, and try dim sum in a traditional restaurant. Lantau Island offers a nature escape with a great seated Buddha and fishing villages. For the evening, bars and nightlife areas are concentrated in several districts; the official advice reminds you to watch your drinks and belongings in any night-time setting.
Getting there and around
The international airport is on Lantau Island and connects to the city by express train, bus and taxi. Inside the city, the metro (MTR), buses, trams and ferries cover almost everything; a rechargeable transport card saves time. If you plan to drive, the FCDO says that with a UK licence you can do so for up to 12 months, but for visitors public transport is the most practical.
Entry
According to the FCDO (Hong Kong advice, updated on 1 April 2026, consulted on 7 November 2026), holders of a British passport can visit Hong Kong for up to six months without a visa, with a passport valid for at least one month after the date they leave. If your passport is from another country, check the Hong Kong SAR government's website. Hong Kong is part of China but is a Special Administrative Region with its own immigration controls: to return to mainland China you will need the right visa.
Vaping, CBD and other rules that surprise
This is the part that surprises visitors most. The FCDO says it is prohibited to bring e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, herbal cigarettes or related devices into Hong Kong, even in personal luggage, and that from 30 April 2026 possessing any e-cigarette or "alternative smoking product" in a public place is illegal, even if you are not using it. Penalties can include prison and heavy fines. CBD is classed as a dangerous drug, and all cannabis products are illegal, including oils, creams, capsules and food. Littering, jaywalking or spitting can bring an on-the-spot fine. Importing ivory, even as a souvenir, is illegal.
Safety and the national security laws
Violent crime is low, but there is pickpocketing and street crime; the FCDO asks you to take care of passports, cards and money in crowded areas and when checking in or out of hotels. Assaults, including sexual assaults involving spiked drinks, are rare but do happen: do not leave your glass alone or accept drinks from strangers. The national security laws of 2020 and 2024 can be interpreted broadly, apply to anyone regardless of nationality and to activities inside and outside the territory; the advice warns that some people have been prosecuted for publishing or supporting statements critical of the authorities. Avoid demonstrations: they are rare but can happen at any time.
Health
Medical treatment for uninsured visitors is expensive. Buy insurance that covers evacuation. The emergency number is 999. Prescription medicines are only obtained through a local doctor, unless your UK prescription specifically says the medication will be required in Hong Kong. Check recommended vaccines at least eight weeks ahead.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my vape? No. The FCDO says it is prohibited to bring one in and, since 30 April 2026, possessing one in public is illegal.
Is it safe at night? Violent crime is low, but there are thefts and cases of spiked drinks. Look after your belongings and your glass.
Can I bring CBD? No: it is treated as a dangerous drug.
Is there a verifiable lifestyle scene? We found no venues with a verifiable official website, so we recommend none.
To plan your trip better, read our guide to Hong Kong and Macao. This page is informational and does not replace legal advice. Source: the FCDO travel advice for Hong Kong.
Keep exploring: all destinations, the guide to entry, registration and payments in China and the one on Hong Kong and Macao.
