- Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon): the best choice for a first visit. Harbourfront views, the Avenue of Stars and evening light show, many MTR lines, and the Star Ferry to Hong Kong Island. Hotels at every budget.
- Central and Sheung Wan (Hong Kong Island): close to Victoria Peak, Soho and Lan Kwai Fong; great for food, cafés and nightlife; rooms cost more.
- Causeway Bay and Wan Chai: busy shopping districts with lots of restaurants and easy tram ("Ding Ding") access.
- Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei: cheaper, near Temple Street Night Market and the Ladies' Market; crowded, with small rooms.
Tips: pick a hotel within walking distance of an MTR station; Hong Kong rooms are usually very small. For early flights, you should stay near an Airport Express station (Hong Kong or Kowloon).