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

Should you visit Hong Kong or Genoa?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Genoa, 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a vibrant, colorful, and energetic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hong Kong and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Genoa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hong Kong than Genoa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hong Kong is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Genoa is known for its historical sights. Hong Kong is popular for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. It is also home to Victoria Peak. Genoa is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Hong Kong different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Genoa 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 Genoa?

Hong Kong
Genoa

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Hong Kong and Genoa.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hong Kong can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.


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

Hong Kong
Genoa

Hong Kong is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Genoa makes for a great culinary experience. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Hong Kong or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Hong Kong
Genoa

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

Many people head to Hong Kong for the nightlife scene. 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 Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Hong Kong or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong
Genoa

Hong Kong is great for the beach. However, Genoa is not a good destination for its beaches.

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.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.


Is Hong Kong or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Hong Kong
Genoa

Genoa is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Genoa. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or Genoa Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong
Genoa

Hong Kong is great for hiking. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or Genoa?

Hong Kong
Genoa

Hong Kong is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Hong Kong specifically to go shopping. 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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.


Is Hong Kong or Genoa Better for Families?

Hong Kong
Genoa

Hong Kong is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port 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.

Genoa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Is Hong Kong or Genoa Better for Couples?

Hong Kong
Genoa

Hong Kong is terrific for couples. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

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.

Genoa is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

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

Hong Kong
Genoa

Genoa is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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 Genoa Better for Students?

Hong Kong
Genoa

Genoa is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Genoa is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

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

Hong Kong
Genoa

Hong Kong is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Hong Kong can take you anywhere. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Genoa. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Is Hong Kong or Genoa a more walkable city?

Hong Kong
Genoa

Hong Kong is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

Hong Kong is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Hong Kong or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hong Kong due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

Families should spend more time in Hong Kong than Genoa. 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 Genoa. 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 Hong Kong than Genoa 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 Hong Kong.


  • How many days in Hong Kong or Genoa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hong Kong 3-7 
    Genoa 2-4

One day in Hong Kong or Genoa?

Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Genoa. 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 Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hong Kong. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the energetic destination of Genoa. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Genoa?

Hong Kong is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic port city of Genoa. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Hong Kong or Genoa?

Each neighborhood in Hong Kong has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Genoa is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Genoa or Hong Kong?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hong Kong is $160, while the average daily cost in Genoa is $160. 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 Genoa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hong Kong $75
    Genoa $95
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hong Kong $150
    Genoa $190
Compare Hotels in Hong Kong and Genoa

Looking for a hotel in Hong Kong or Genoa? 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 Genoa


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 Genoa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hong Kong $8.73
    Genoa $9.31
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

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


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.82
  • Local Bus
    $2.82
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Genoa

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

  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $118
  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $59
  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa Airport Private Departure Transfer: $59
  • Private transfer from Genoa to Portofino with Hotel or Cruise Port pick-up: $120
  • Private Transfer: Genoa Cruise Port to Genoa City in Minivan: $66
  • Private Transfer from/to Genoa to/from Portofino: $124
  • Private Transfer from/to Genoa Airport: $71
  • Private Transfer from Santa Margherita Port to Genoa Airport GOA: $44
  • Private Transfer from Santa Margherita Cruise Port to Genoa city: $44
  • Private Transfer from Genoa, Savona or Portofino to Genoa Port by Luxury Vehicle: $66
  • Private Transfer from Genoa city to Santa Margherita Cruise Port: $44
  • Private Transfer from Genoa Airport GOA to Santa Margherita Port: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Hong Kong or Genoa?

Prices for flights to both Genoa 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
    Genoa $55
Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

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


  • Dinner for 2
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Genoa

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

  • Genoese cooking lesson in the garden with lunch: $68
  • Genoa Old town Food Tour: $74
  • Itinerant dinner in the old town: $75
  • Street Food Tour: $85
  • Do Eat Better Experience - Food Tours in Genoa: $86
  • Traditional Food Tour: $91
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Camogli: $93
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Savona: $93
  • Dining experience with cooking demo and wines in Rapallo: $93
  • Traditional Home Cooking Class in Genoa: $93
  • Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner: $93
  • Small-group Street food tour in Savona: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hong Kong $95
    Genoa $21
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
    $7.68
  • 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

Tours and Activities in Genoa

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

  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Genoa: $104
  • 3 Hours Private Walking Tour of Genoa from the Cruise Terminal: $240
  • 7 Islands 7 Stops Tour of Archipelago La Maddalena: $90
  • Aquarium of Genoa + Panera Ice Cream Taste experience: $32
  • Aquarium of Genoa Ticket and Whale Watching Cruise: $70
  • Aquarium of Entry Ticket and Aperitif: $31
  • Cesarine: Market Tour & Dining at a Local's Home in Genoa: $152
  • City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $27
  • Departure by Private Car from Genoa City to Genoa Cruise Port: $44
  • Discover Genoa, old town walking tour: $131
  • E-Bike, Scooter and Scooter Tour: $38
  • E-bike tour in Genova: $82

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hong Kong $21
    Genoa $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Genoa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Genoa:

  • Guided Eco Hiking and Sea View Wine Tasting in Portofino Park: $75
  • 3 Hour Pesto Making and Wine Tasting Activity in Campetto Genoa: $105
  • CAMOGLI: PRIVATE Ligurian Wine Tasting Experience and walking on National Park: $126


When comparing the travel costs between Hong Kong and Genoa, we can see that Genoa 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 Genoa 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 Genoa Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Genoa?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Genoa. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong and Genoa, 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.