How to Find the Best Hong Kong Travel Information in 2025? Official Resources, Apps, Maps and Tips

Key Points

Official Sources Matter

Hong Kong Tourism Board, Immigration Department, and HKIA provide verified, up-to-date travel information

Essential 2025 Apps

MTR Mobile, MyObservatory, OpenRice, and Citybus/NWFB streamline transport, weather, and dining

Smarter Navigation

AR-enhanced maps and local trail apps help travelers navigate Hong Kong’s complex, multi-level cityscape

Local Know-How

Mobile Octopus, reliable connectivity, and awareness of vertical building layouts improve daily travel efficiency

How to Find the Best Hong Kong Travel Information in 2025? Official Resources, Apps, Maps and Tips

Planning a trip to Hong Kong is always an exciting experience, thanks to the city’s dynamic mix of skyscrapers, heritage sites, and world-class dining. In 2025, Hong Kong’s digital travel ecosystem has matured, making it easier than ever to navigate the “Pearl of the Orient.”

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, having accurate and accessible information is essential for a smooth journey. This guide brings together the most reliable official resources, must-have apps, updated maps, and practical tips for visiting Hong Kong in 2025.

Start with the Source: Official Government Resources

Before booking your flight, your first stop should always be official channels. In 2025, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has further streamlined its digital platforms to deliver more personalized and real-time information.

Discover Hong Kong (Web & App) The HKTB’s flagship platform remains the gold standard for visitors. Updated 2025 event calendars cover everything from Art Basel Hong Kong to neighborhood festivals. Improved itinerary tools now tailor recommendations for food lovers, hikers, and culture enthusiasts.
Immigration Department Website While post-pandemic travel rules have stabilized, checking the latest visa requirements is still essential. The enhanced e-Visa system now offers faster processing for international travelers.
Hong Kong International Airport – “My HKG” This official airport app provides real-time flight updates, baggage reclaim information, and even allows passengers to pre-order food before landing.

The Digital Toolkit: Must-Have Apps for 2025

Screenshot of the Hong Kong MTR route map and official trip planner interface, showing metro lines, stations, and route planning options for travelers

Your smartphone is your most powerful travel companion in Hong Kong. Local developers and major platforms have refined their apps to make navigating the city seamless.

MTR Mobile Essential for navigating Hong Kong’s vast metro network. Beyond route maps, it provides real-time train schedules, exit information, and fare calculations.
MyObservatory Weather in Hong Kong can change quickly. The Hong Kong Observatory’s app offers precise, location-based forecasts, rain radar, and heat index warnings—crucial during summer months.
OpenRice Widely regarded as the “Yelp of Hong Kong,” OpenRice covers everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional dai pai dongs. Its English interface has improved significantly in 2025.
Citybus / NWFB App While the MTR is efficient, buses reach areas trains do not. This app helps track arrival times and reduces waiting in humid conditions.

Mastering the Geography: Best Maps for Exploring

Google Maps remains useful, but Hong Kong’s multi-level footbridges, elevated walkways, and interconnected malls can make navigation tricky.

Google Maps with Live View AR-based Live View works particularly well in dense districts like Central and Causeway Bay, helping users orient themselves when exiting subway stations.
HKmap.live Originally a real-time data platform, it now provides crowdsourced insights into city conditions and local happenings.
Enjoy Hiking Maps Operated by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, these offline-capable maps cover major trails such as the MacLehose, Wilson, and Hong Kong Trails—ideal for exploring beyond the urban core.

Practical Tips for the 2025 Traveler

Technology helps, but local know-how makes the real difference.

Stay Connected Free Wi-Fi is available at many government venues and MTR stations under the “Wi-Fi.HK” network. For full reliability, a local prepaid SIM or eSIM ensures fast 5G access citywide.
Get an Octopus on Your Phone In 2025, you can add the Octopus card directly to your mobile wallet. Top-ups are instant, and the card works across transport, convenience stores, and vending machines.
Mind the Verticality Many restaurants and shops are located above street level. Always check floor numbers—“Ground Floor” is street level, but businesses may be several floors up.
Carry Cash for Taxis Although digital payments are common, many red urban taxis still prefer cash, especially late at night.

By combining these digital tools with local insights, you can focus less on logistics and more on enjoying Hong Kong’s vibrant street life, harbor views, and cultural richness.