A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hong Kong or Florence?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Florence, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a diverse , compact, and dense city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hong Kong and Florence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore)
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Florence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hong Kong than Florence. Hong Kong is bigger than Florence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hong Kong is better known for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Florence is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Florence is more touristy than Hong Kong and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Hong Kong is well known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Also, Hong Kong is famous for Victoria Peak.

How is Hong Kong different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence and Hong Kong. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Florence?

Hong Kong
Florence

Florence is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.


Is the Food Better in Hong Kong or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hong Kong
Florence

Dining out at restaurants in both Hong Kong and Florence can be an enjoyable experience.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hong Kong is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Many restaurants in Florence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Is Hong Kong or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Hong Kong
Florence

Hong Kong is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Hong Kong has something for everybody. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Hong Kong or Florence Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong
Florence

Hong Kong is a great city for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hong Kong. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Florence is not a beach destination.


Is Hong Kong or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Hong Kong
Florence

Florence is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Florence offers plenty to see. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or Florence Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong
Florence

Hong Kong is a great city for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Hong Kong for the hiking trails. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Florence?

Hong Kong
Florence

Hong Kong is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.


Is Hong Kong or Florence Better for Families?

Hong Kong
Florence

Hong Kong is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Hong Kong or Florence Better for Couples?

Hong Kong
Florence

Hong Kong and Florence are both amazing to visit as a couple.

Hong Kong has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Florence is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Is Hong Kong or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hong Kong
Florence

Florence is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.


Is Hong Kong or Florence Better for Students?

Hong Kong
Florence

Florence is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Is Hong Kong or Florence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hong Kong
Florence

Hong Kong is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Hong Kong can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Hong Kong or Florence a more walkable city?

Hong Kong
Florence

Hong Kong and Florence are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Getting around Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Florence?

Both Hong Kong and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Hong Kong has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hong Kong than Florence. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

Families should spend more time in Hong Kong than Florence. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hong Kong, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Hong Kong than Florence. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hong Kong that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Hong Kong if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Florence.


  • How many days in Hong Kong or Florence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hong Kong 3-7 
    Florence 2-7

One day in Hong Kong or Florence?

Hong Kong is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Florence. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hong Kong or Florence?

Hong Kong is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Florence?

Hong Kong is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hong Kong, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the historical city of Florence. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


A week in Hong Kong or Florence?

Hong Kong is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hong Kong has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Florence or Hong Kong?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hong Kong is $159, while the average daily cost in Florence is $167. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hong Kong and Florence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hong Kong $75
    Florence $94
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hong Kong $150
    Florence $188
Compare Hotels in Hong Kong and Florence

Looking for a hotel in Hong Kong or Florence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hong Kong


Hotels in Florence


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hong Kong Hotel Prices and Florence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hong Kong $8.70
    Florence $24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.81
  • Local Bus
    $2.81
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $14

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Florence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:


  • Taxi Ride Within City
    $8.67
  • Taxi from Airport
    $27
  • In City Parking (Full Day)
    $32
  • Bus Pass (Full Day)
    $5.42
  • Bus From Airport
    $5.42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florence

Also for Florence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from Florence to Arezzo with a stop at The Mall Outlet: $153
  • Transfer Florence - Bologna with stop at the Barberino Outlet: $142
  • Transfer Between Florence and Rome with Sightseeing Stop: $1,172
  • San Gimignano & Volterra: Private Transfer from Florence: $863
  • Private transfer: $256
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Florence (hotel OR airport pick-up): $85
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Florence: $114
  • Private Transfer: Florence to Florence Firenze-Peretola Airport (FLR): $153
  • Private Transfer: Florence City Center to Peretola Airport (FLR): $63
  • Private Transfer from Ulignano to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $251
  • Private Transfer from Scandicci to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $110
  • Private Transfer from San Casciano in Val di Pesa to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $292

Is it cheaper to fly into Hong Kong or Florence?

Prices for flights to both Florence and Hong Kong change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hong Kong $33
    Florence $39
Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $11

Typical Food Prices in Florence

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:


  • Panini Sandwich
    $7.04
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Florence

For Florence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Walking Food Tour at Sunset with Tastings: $23
  • Florence Street Food Tour: Market & City Center: $25
  • Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Virtual Live Cooking Class What Do You Have in Your Pantry: $35
  • Virtual Cooking Class: Bruschetta & Tiramisù: $35
  • Italian Fresh Pasta Private Virtual Cooking Class: $40
  • Street Food Tour with Local Expert Guide: $40
  • Florence Food Tour: Home-Made Pasta, Truffle, Cantucci, Olive Oil, Gelato: $41
  • Street Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Expert Guide in 2.5 hours : $41
  • Food Tour in Santo Spirito: $47
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $61
  • Pasta and Dessert Cooking Class with Drinks: $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hong Kong $95
    Florence $32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.66
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Tours and Activities in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ma On Shan Climbing Adventure: $115
  • Plover Cove Bicycling and Hiking Adventure: $110

Typical Entertainment Prices in Florence

For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Admission to Uffizi
    $12
  • Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi
    $4.33
  • Firenze Card (for Two)
    $108
  • Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two)
    $22
  • Giotto's Tower Entrance Fee
    $6.50
  • Boboli Gardens Entrance Fee
    $7.58

Tours and Activities in Florence

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Florence.

  • Best of Florence walking tour & Accademia Gallery- monolingual small group tour: $92
  • Florence FoodTour with Local Guide: $191
  • Florence-Private bike tour: $98
  • From Sunset Panoramic e-Bike or Classic Bike tour : $38
  • Semi-Private Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour: $71
  • Tour Private of Florence in electric car : $41
  • VIP Uffizi Gallery Tour: $75
  • "Good Morning Chianti Classico" - Tour in 2 wineries with lunch: $196
  • 1-Hour Experience with Brunello. Visit to the Vineyard and Cellar: $35
  • 1-Hour Golf Cart Private Tour through the Center of Florence: $49
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Tour: Uffizi Galleries for Families: $38
  • 2-Hour Guided Tour to Uffizi Gallery and its Symbols: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hong Kong $21
    Florence $20

Typical Alcohol Prices in Florence

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:


  • Glass of Chianti
    $4.55
  • Bottle of Wine
    $8.12

Sample the Local Flavors in Florence

Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting by CarusVini in San Casciano in val di Pesa: $16
  • Great wine tasting at Tenuta Moriano: $25
  • Biodynamic Wine Tasting with Producer in Vinci: $28
  • 3 Types Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $29
  • From Florence to Chianti Rufina: Wine Tasting Experience: $32
  • Classic Wine Tasting in Montalcino: $33
  • Discover Artimino wine tasting, a few steps from Florence: $33
  • Three Types of Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $37
  • Wine Tasting and Paring Class Guided Tour in Florence: $42
  • Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $43
  • Chianti Wine Tour: Tuscan Reds : $43
  • Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $43


When comparing the travel costs between Hong Kong and Florence, we can see that Florence is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Hong Kong is in Asia and Florence is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hong Kong Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Florence?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong and Florence, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.