A Guide to Living in Central Hong Kong: Why It’s the Best Area to Stay
Looking for the best area to stay in Hong Kong? Central District stands out as a top choice for both short-term visitors and long-term residents. With its seamless transport links, world-class dining, boutique shopping, and rich cultural heritage, living in Central Hong Kong offers a lifestyle that’s both dynamic and convenient. This guide explores where to stay in Hong Kong, what makes Central so desirable, and how it caters to a wide range of needs from business travellers to families and creatives.
Top Reasons to Stay in Central Hong Kong
Central District isn’t just the financial centre of Hong Kong, it’s also one of the most exciting and convenient areas to explore. From heritage landmarks and creative spaces to boutique shopping and world-class dining, Central offers a lifestyle that makes it one of the best areas to stay in Hong Kong.
What to See and Do in Central Hong Kong: Culture, Creativity and Local Charm
Tai Kwun: A Cultural Landmark in Central
Once a colonial-era prison, Tai Kwun has been transformed into a vibrant arts and heritage centre. It hosts rotating exhibitions—often free of charge—such as “Edge of Light and Shadow: The Undercover World of Hong Kong Cinema”, which recreates iconic scenes from local films. The on-site “Staircase Cinema” also screens themed movies monthly, making Tai Kwun a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.
PMQ: Creative Hub and Workshop Space
PMQ is a hotspot for Hong Kong’s creative industries. From September to November, its annual Coffee Festival draws top baristas from around the world. Visitors can also join workshops in silversmithing, crystal sound bowl meditation, and fluid art—ideal for those looking to unwind or get hands-on with local creativity.
Hollywood Road & Pottinger Street: Iconic Photo Spots
Central’s streets are full of character. Hollywood Road and Pottinger Street feature colourful murals and vintage backdrops, perfect for snapping memorable photos. For a nostalgic touch, rent a cheongsam from Yin Chong Kee and capture the essence of old Hong Kong.
Boutique Shopping in the Mid-Levels
Skip the malls and head to Tai Ping Shan Street, Wing Lee Street, and the Central–Sheung Wan border for boutique shopping. Discover Korean fashion at TAV, stylish eyewear at Polette, and locally designed jewellery at LUAH. Each shop offers a unique take on design and lifestyle, making this area a hidden gem for shoppers.
H2: Where to Eat in Central Hong Kong: Top Dining Spots
Central’s food scene is as diverse as its architecture. From Michelin-starred fine dining to hidden bars and local favourites, the district offers something for every palate. If you're choosing where to stay in Hong Kong, Central’s culinary offerings are a major draw.
Bar Leone: Asia’s No.1 Bar
Address: 11–15 Peel Street, Central
Founded by the former head bartender of Argo, this bar offers Italian-style cocktails with a neighbourhood vibe. Popular items include focaccia sandwiches and cold brew coffee cocktails.
Perfume Trees Gin by Tankyu Distillery : Locally Distilled Gin Bar
Address:35 Hollywood Road, Central
This bar uses local distillation techniques to craft gin with Hong Kong flavours like white orchid and dried tangerine peel. It also offers fruit wines and coffee liqueurs. It’s a great place to savour Hong Kong’s essence.
Foxglove: Hidden Jazz Bar with Dim Sum
Address: 2/F Printing House, 6 Duddell Street, Central
Behind an antique umbrella shop lies Foxglove, a bar combining vintage décor with live jazz. It serves refined Chinese dim sum in an elegant setting, which is far from the hustle of traditional tea houses.
Mono: Michelin-Starred Latin American Cuisine
Address: 5/F, 18 On Lan Street, Central
Led by a Michelin-starred chef, MONO is one of Hong Kong’s few fine dining restaurants focused on Latin American cuisine. It blends French techniques with South American flavours, ideal for gourmets seeking something beyond Cantonese or Western fare.
Fiata Pizza: Best Artisan Pizza
Address: G/F, 2 Staunton Street, Central
Ranked third in “Asia’s Best Pizza,” Fiata Pizza is helmed by Italian chef Salvatore Fiata. Its handmade pizzas are freshly prepared, with chewy crusts and rich flavours.
Vission Bakery: Popular Central Bakery
Address: Lower G/F, Tsui Man House, 7 Staunton Street, Central
Known for Danish pastries and creative desserts like matcha mochi Danish and pistachio tarts, this bakery is a favourite among local dessert lovers.
Jane’s Seafood Hotpot Restaurant: Local Hotpot
Address: G/F, 9 Wo On Lane, Central
Famous for fresh local beef and seafood, Jane’s offers a variety of soup bases such as coconut chicken and pork bone clam broth. It also serves rice dishes at lunch—an affordable choice loved by locals.
Getting Around Central Hong Kong: Transport Convenience
Central boasts one of the most comprehensive transport networks in Hong Kong, making it ideal for commuting, travelling, or living.
To and From New Territories & Kowloon
Central and Hong Kong stations connect the Island Line, Tsuen Wan Line, and Tung Chung Line, offering easy access to Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, Sha Tin, Tsuen Wan, and more. Frequent MTR services and a wide range of buses and minibuses make travel seamless.
To and From Hong Kong Island
The Island Line links Central with Admiralty, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, and North Point. Trams also run across the island, offering scenic views and a relaxed way to explore.
To and From the Airport or Mainland China
Hong Kong Station provides Airport Express service, reaching the airport in about 24 minutes, with in-town check-in available. For travel to Mainland China, transfer to the high-speed rail at West Kowloon Station or take cross-border buses to Shenzhen or Guangzhou.
To and From Outlying Islands
Central Pier offers ferry services to some popular weekend getaway spots such as Cheung Chau, Lamma Island, Peng Chau, and Mui Wo. The iconic Star Ferry connects Central with Tsim Sha Tsui and Wan Chai, offering stunning harbour views.
Local Transport
Walking is the main mode of transport within Central. Streets are well-planned, and shops, offices, restaurants, and residences are close together. The Mid-Levels Escalator connects Central with the residential Mid-Levels area, with cafés, bars, and boutiques along the way, which turns commuting into a lifestyle experience.
Where to Stay in Central Hong Kong: Residential Options for Every Lifestyle
As shown above, Central offers excellent amenities, convenient transport, thriving commerce, and rich culture, making it a best area to stay in Hong Kong. You might ask, “Are there homes in Central?” Absolutely. And the options are increasingly diverse, catering to various lifestyles and needs.
Serviced Apartments: Weave Suites – Central West
Ideal for short stays or business travellers, these apartments offer all-inclusive services and modern design, providing a hotel-like living experience. Located near MTR stations and business districts, with full amenities.
Luxury Apartments: Weave Residences – Mid-Levels
Situated in the tranquil Mid-Levels area of Central, these stylishly designed units offer privacy and convenience, perfect for those seeking a high-quality lifestyle. A rare high-end residential option in Central.
Family-Friendly Apartments: Weave Residences – Robinson
Spacious units suitable for families, close to schools, parks, and shopping centres. Multi-bedroom layouts ensure comfort for all family members, ideal for enjoying urban living with ease.
Final Thought: Is Central a Good Area to Stay in Hong Kong?
Central is widely recognised as one of the best areas to stay in Hong Kong. Its unbeatable location, efficient transport network, and rich mix of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences make it a top choice for both visitors and residents. The district offers a well-rounded lifestyle that suits professionals, families, and creatives alike. If you're deciding where to stay in Hong Kong, Central delivers convenience, character, and quality living—all in one place.