Canadians will now be able to make the most of long layovers in Hong Kong.
On Monday, travel service site Trip.com announced the launch of its new free layover tour service at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), aiming to transform long layovers into immersive cultural experiences.
“We are delighted to introduce the new free local tour service for transfer passengers at HKIA to turn transit time into cultural exploration opportunities,” said Vivian Cheung, CEO of Airport Authority Hong Kong, in a statement.
The new program follows the success of Trip.com’s similar layover tour services in Shanghai and Beijing.
The Hong Kong program offers six curated half-day itineraries — three free and three premium — that include guided transport and expert English-speaking guides.
According to Trip.com, the service is available to all international travellers transiting through HKIA with layovers of seven hours or more. The program is not limited to Trip.com users.
“By reimagining every point in the journey as an opportunity, we are opening new ways to inspire travellers, empower destinations, and set a new standard for how the global travel ecosystem fosters connection and drives growth,” explained Trip.com Group CEO Jane Sun.
Tour itineraries
Daniel Fung/Shutterstock
The three free tours highlight cityscapes, natural beauty, and local heritage, while the three premium paid itineraries offer tours at iconic attractions such as Lantau Island, Victoria Peak, and Tai O fishing village.
Here are in-depth descriptions of the three free tours and their schedules:
Trip.com
These are the schedules for the premium paid itineraries. Advanced booking is required for these tours by noon the day before, with a minimum of six participants.
Trip.com
How to book a free layover tour in Hong Kong
Trip.com
According to Trip.com, travellers can select an itinerary that best fits their arrival time and layover duration.
You can book one of the Hong Kong tours via the Trip.com app, official website, or in person at HKIA’s transit counters (E134 and E135) or Trip.com Travel Services Counters (A03 and A04) in Arrival Hall A.
The travel company also has a dedicated customer service counter at HKIA, offering one-stop services that include day tours, transportation arrangements, accommodations, attraction tickets, eSIM cards, and other travel essentials. Visitors can also collect an exclusive welcome gift pack upon arrival.
If you booked a tour in advance, all you’ll have to do is meet your guide at the designated Trip.com counter after clearing immigration. Each tour lasts around four hours, accommodates up to 20 guests, and includes airport transfers.
“Carefully timed to coincide with peak transit hours, these tours are designed to help travellers make the most of their layover in Hong Kong,” read the announcement. “With hassle-free transport, expert English-speaking guides, and every detail arranged by Trip.com, passengers can simply relax and enjoy the vibrant sights of the city.”
At the end of the tour, participants receive a fast-track pass to re-enter the restricted area, so you won’t have to stress about missing your connecting flight.
