Salt-baked quail’s eggs, soy-braised cuttlefish and typhoon shelter crab: this morning is all about getting to know Hong Kong’s culinary heritage. Starting with its old-fashioned seafood markets and ginseng shops in Kowloon — including a stop at one of its oldest temples — then hop across the water in search of eggettes, stinky tofu and siu mai fish parcels on Hong Kong Island. In the afternoon, head into the suburbs to admire the Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden, both exquisitely designed in the Tang dynasty style against the surreal backdrop of the city skyline. Finish the day back among the fish, flower and bird markets of Mong Kok, under the blinking lights of neon signs.

It’s time to slow the pace with a day on Lantau: Hong Kong’s biggest island. This is where Hongkongers come to escape the breakneck pace of city living, and it’s so green and tranquil that it can feel almost like a different country entirely. Make the most of the laid-back atmosphere as you explore the grand halls, pagodas, courtyards and gardens of Po Lin Monastery, then climb the steps to Tian Tan — the largest seated bronze buddha in the world. The cable car back to the mainland offers stunning panoramic views over sea and city, and you should have no problem locating the perfect sky bar in which to toast your last night as you arrive back in Kowloon.