Weekend getaway: 3 days in Christchurch!

Explore the natural wonders and vibrant culture of Christchurch, New Zealand.

22 April 2023

A trip to Christchurch, New Zealand, promises to be an unforgettable experience for any tourist. The city's stunning natural beauty, including the nearby hills, rivers, and forests, provides a backdrop for an adventure-filled vacation. With a range of attractions, including Botanic Gardens, the Canterbury Museum and Christchurch Gondola, visitors can enjoy a unique blend of culture, history, and outdoor adventure.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Christchurch

  • Check-in to Hotel Montreal, a chic boutique property with a funky lounge.
  • Start at the beautiful Botanic Gardens, where you can stroll through a rose garden, feed ducks and check out the conservatory.
  • Take a tram ride around the city and learn about its history.
  • Shop for souvenirs on New Regent Street, a colorful strip with cafes, shops and street performers.
  • Grab a coffee at C1 Espresso, a quirky spot with a pneumatic tube delivery system.
  • Dine at Twenty Seven Steps, a cozy restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine.
Day 2

Beaches and Bubbles

  • Have breakfast at Little Pom's, a cheerful café with delicious pastries and a great vibe.
  • Drive to Sumner Beach, a gorgeous spot where you can surf or sunbathe.
  • Visit Pegasus Bay Winery, a family-owned vineyard that produces award-winning wines. Enjoy a tasting and a cheese platter.
  • Sip cocktails at The Last Word, a hidden bar with a retro vibe.
  • Have dinner at The Monday Room, a trendy restaurant that serves creative dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
Day 3

Outdoor Adventures

  • Start at The Caffeine Laboratory, a funky café with exceptional coffee.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride with Ballooning Canterbury and admire the stunning views.
  • Visit Quake City, a museum that tells the story of the devastating earthquakes that shook Christchurch in 2010 and 2011.
  • Drive to Lyttelton Harbour and go for a hike in the Port Hills, which offer panoramic views of the city.
  • Have a final dinner at The Curator's House, a stylish restaurant housed in a historic building with a lovely garden.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Christchurch, New Zealand by plane is to fly into Christchurch International Airport from major international airports such as Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. You can also fly from other regional airports within New Zealand such as Auckland or Wellington.

Car

Driving to Christchurch, New Zealand is a great option if you want to explore the stunning scenery of the South Island. The most popular route is to travel from Auckland to Wellington, and then take the Interislander ferry to Picton. From Picton, you can drive down the east coast to Christchurch.

Train

There is no direct train service to Christchurch, New Zealand. However, you can take the TranzAlpine train from Greymouth on the West Coast of the South Island, which is renowned for its stunning scenery.

Boat

You can take a cruise ship to Christchurch, New Zealand which docks at the Lyttelton Port. Another option is to take the Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton and then drive down the east coast to Christchurch.

Bus

The best way to get to Christchurch, New Zealand by bus is to take a direct bus service from major cities such as Auckland, Wellington or Queenstown. Alternatively, you can take a hop-on-hop-off bus service to explore the South Island at your own pace.

More travel plans

Romantic Weekend in Christchurch, New Zealand

A romantic trip to Christchurch, New Zealand offers breathtaking scenery and romantic rejuvenation. Take a beautiful stroll through the Botanic Gardens or enjoy a delicious cuisine in the inner city. Experience the captivating views from the Christchurch Gondola and discover the charming architecture of Christchurch's city center.

The Ultimate Long Weekend in Christchurch, NZ

Christchurch, New Zealand is a must-visit destination for any avid traveler seeking a perfect blend of scenic landscapes, captivating culture, and historical significance. Delight in the stunning art scene of the city, savor the rich cuisine, and explore the heart-warming hospitality of the locals. Moreover, your trip to Christchurch would be incomplete without taking a gondola ride to the top of Port Hills, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and beyond.

Christchurch Adventures: A 5-Day Family Trip on a Budget

A family-friendly trip to Christchurch, New Zealand offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Explore the stunning botanic gardens and get up close with wildlife at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, where the kids can hand-feed adorable animals. Enjoy a ride on the historic Christchurch Tramway, go punting on the Avon River, and immerse in fascinating exhibits at the Canterbury Museum for an unforgettable family vacation.

Christchurch on a Budget: Garden City Adventures

Christchurch, New Zealand offers budget-friendly accommodation options that cater to travellers on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's vast parks, including Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens, free of charge. Additionally, cheap food options include local markets and food trucks that offer a taste of New Zealand's diverse cuisine.