Why Hong Kong Is the Best Base for Traveling Around Asia

Hong Kong is more than just a vibrant city known for its skyline and bustling streets. It is also one of the best starting points for exploring Asia. Whether you are planning a short getaway or a longer journey across multiple countries, Hong Kong offers unmatched connectivity, convenience, and experiences that make it the perfect hub for travelers.

Flying to Hong Kong With KLM

One of the easiest ways to reach Hong Kong is with KLM’s direct flights from Amsterdam. On our recent trip, we partnered with KLM and found the Amsterdam to Hong Kong route to be a convenient and comfortable option for long-haul travel. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is one of Europe’s best-connected hubs, making it easy to connect to Hong Kong from cities across Europe as well as from the United States.

Whether you are flying from another European country or starting your journey in North America, connecting through Amsterdam offers smooth transfers, reliable schedules, and a seamless travel experience. For travelers planning to use Hong Kong as a base to explore Asia, KLM’s strong network makes the journey both efficient and stress-free.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider Hong Kong as your starting point to explore Asia.

Easy Day Trips

One of the key advantages of using Hong Kong as a base is its proximity to other destinations. Macau and Shenzhen are both less than one hour away, making them ideal for day trips. Macau offers a fascinating mix of Portuguese colonial architecture and modern casinos, while Shenzhen combines contemporary urban development & technology with local culture.

In addition to these cross-border trips, there are plenty of options within Hong Kong itself. Lantau Island, Lamma Island, Tai O fishing village, and Sai Kung are all excellent day-trip destinations. From tranquil beaches to scenic hiking trails and traditional villages, these locations provide a peaceful escape from the city while still being easily accessible.

Budget-Friendly Flights

Hong Kong is a hub for low-cost carriers, making it easy and affordable to explore the wider region. Airlines such as HK Express, AirAsia, Scoot, and Peach offer regular flights across Asia at competitive prices. Whether you are planning a quick weekend trip or a longer journey, these airlines allow travelers to reach neighboring countries without breaking the bank. I am talking one way tickets for under 50€.

Being based in Hong Kong allows you to maximize your travel options without constantly changing cities or dealing with long and exhausting flights. This makes it an ideal base for those who want to see more of Asia efficiently and affordably.

Short Flight Times to Major Asian Cities

Flying from Hong Kong to many major cities in Asia is super convenient. Taipei is only about 1.5 hours away, Hanoi around 2 hours, and Shanghai approximately 2.5 hours. Bangkok is reachable in about 3 hours, Seoul in 3.5 hours, Tokyo in 4 hours, Singapore in 4 hours, and Bali in 5 hours.

This short flight connectivity means you can plan multiple trips across the region without spending days in transit. For anyone looking to explore Asia from a single base, Hong Kong’s central location and excellent flight connections make it a practical choice.

A Destination in Its Own

Hong Kong is not just a stopover city. It is a destination worth exploring on its own. The city offers a remarkable mix of modern architecture, stunning natural scenery, and unique cultural experiences. It's truly one of the most unique cities out there. From the iconic skyline to peaceful hiking trails, from serene beaches to vibrant local markets, Hong Kong has something for every type of traveler.

Additionally, Hong Kong is renowned for its food scene. From traditional street food and local dim sum to international fine dining, the culinary offerings are diverse and exceptional. Spending a few days in Hong Kong allows travelers to enjoy the city’s unique charm while still planning quick trips to other Asian destinations.

So, should you travel to Hong Kong?

Using Hong Kong as a travel hub allows you to combine the best of both worlds. You can experience a dynamic, fascinating city while taking advantage of its connectivity to explore Asia efficiently and affordably. With easy day trips, budget-friendly flights, short connections to major cities, and a vibrant local culture, Hong Kong remains one of the most strategic and enjoyable bases for anyone planning to travel across Asia.