Bustling Hong Kong is far more than a megacity and financial capital: Located on southeastern corner of Mainland China, it comprises hundreds of islands, the Kowloon Peninsula, and the New Territories. Set amid rolling hills, soaring mountains, and the glistening waters of the South China Sea, the urban landscape of Hong Kong shows many different faces. Sparkly skyscrapers are ringed by narrow alleyways full of shops and markets, and throughout the city, you’ll find remnants of Hong Kong’s past as a British colony, mixed with its Cantonese heritage.

Here, historic buildings have been transformed into upscale shopping malls, and Buddhist temples peek out between high-rise apartment buildings. Beyond the buzzing activity of Hong Kong and Kowloon, you’ll find jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery, including lush forests, white-sand beaches, and even the ruins of 19th-century villages.

A petty little issue like weather does not slow Hong Kong down. During the summer, the city is a steambath; however, most places are air-conditioned, providing a chance to cool down quickly. Although summer is the monsoon season, the hard rains pass quickly, so most days are still filled with sunshine. The lovely weather in spring and fall make for a great time to explore Hong Kong’s hiking trails or head to the beach on one of the Outlying Islands. Winter can get a little chilly but don’t worry — you will only need to throw on a sweater or light jacket.

Victoria’s Peak

Take the iconic Hong Kong tram up the mountain to Victoria’s Peak, high above Central. From the peak, you can see both Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. If you’re feeling hardier, you can also hike up to the peak on the Old Peak Road, a well-maintained walkway that passes by beautiful historic mansions and offers expansive vistas along the way.

Mong Kok

The bustling, ever-crowded Mong Kok neighborhood is home to several markets selling all manner of necessities, from fresh seafood to homewares. As you wander the crowded streets, the swaggering smells of stinky tofu and fish balls fill the air. This is Hong Kong at its most raw, buzzing with cacophonous noise, conversation, and culinary prowess.

Dragon’s Back

While Hong Kong offers endless hiking trails, one of the most famous is the Dragon’s Back. This stunning trail takes you up and over the tree-covered Shek O Peak to the southern shore of Hong Kong Island. It finishes at Big Wave Bay, where you can go for a quick swim in the South China Sea to cool down and then seek out fresh seafood.