Wellington-4-day-itinerary
Day 1: Wednesday
Morning
- Start the day at the Wellington Cable Car, a historic funicular that takes you from Lambton Quay to the top of the hill. ($6 return)
- Visit the Te Papa Museum, a world-class museum with interactive exhibits and a stunning view of the city. (Free admission, donations welcome)
Lunch
- Head to Fidel’s Cafe on Courtenay Place for delicious Mexican food and a lively atmosphere.
Afternoon
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Wellington Botanic Garden, which features a variety of plants and flowers from around the world.
- Visit the City Gallery Wellington, which showcases a range of contemporary art exhibitions.
Dinner
- Try Logan Brown’s Restaurant on Courtenay Place for upscale New Zealand cuisine in an elegant setting.
Accommodation
- Stay at The Grand Hotel Wellington, a luxurious hotel with stunning views of the city.
Things to Know
- Be prepared for windy weather, as Wellington is known for its strong gusts.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to try some local fish and chips at one of the many cafes or food trucks around the city.
Transportation
- The Wellington Cable Car is a convenient way to get around the city, but you can also use the bus network or walk/bike if you prefer.
- If you’re staying at The Grand Hotel Wellington, take advantage of their airport shuttle service.
Day 2: Thursday
Morning
- Visit the Wellington Zoo, which is home to over 500 animals from around the world. ($25 adult admission)
- Take a short walk to the nearby Karori Cemetery, a historic cemetery with beautiful views of the city.
Lunch
- Try The Coffee Works Project on Courtenay Place for specialty coffee and delicious sandwiches.
Afternoon
- Visit the Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington Harbour, where you can take a walk along the waterfront or rent a bike and ride along the harbour path.
- Stop by the Wellington Arts Market, which features local artisans selling handmade crafts and artwork. (Saturdays only)
Dinner
- Head to The Crab Shack on Courtenay Place for fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere.
Accommodation
- Stay at Ibis Wellington, a modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
Things to Know
- Don’t miss the opportunity to take a harbor cruise, which offers stunning views of the city.
- If you’re visiting in February, be sure to catch the Wellington Sevens rugby tournament.
Transportation
- Use the bus network or walk/bike to get around the city, or take a taxi if needed.
- If you’re staying at Ibis Wellington, ask about their airport shuttle service.
Day 3: Friday
Morning
- Visit the Old St Paul’s Church, a historic church that dates back to 1866 and features stunning stained-glass windows. (Donations welcome)
- Take a short walk to the nearby Cable Car Museum, which showcases the history of Wellington’s cable car system.
Lunch
- Try The Coffee Club on Courtenay Place for specialty coffee and delicious sandwiches.
Afternoon
- Visit the Wellington Museum of City & Sea, which features exhibits on the city’s maritime history. (Free admission, donations welcome)
- Take a short walk to the nearby Marine Parade, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the harbour.
Dinner
- Head to Garagiste Bistro on Courtenay Place for delicious wine and food pairings in an intimate setting.
Accommodation
- Stay at Novotel Wellington, a modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
Things to Know
- Don’t miss the opportunity to take a scenic flight over the city, which offers stunning views of Wellington.
- If you’re visiting in November, be sure to catch the Wellington Jazz Festival.
Transportation
- Use the bus network or walk/bike to get around the city, or take a taxi if needed.
- If you’re staying at Novotel Wellington, ask about their airport shuttle service.
Day 4: Saturday
Morning
- Visit the Wellington Farmers Market, which features local producers selling fresh produce and artisanal goods. (Saturdays only)
- Take a short walk to the nearby Cuba Street Mall, where you can browse shops, cafes, and street performers.
Lunch
- Try The Sandwich Board on Courtenay Place for delicious sandwiches and salads.
Afternoon
- Visit the Wellington Botanic Garden’s Rose Garden, which features over 2,000 roses in a stunning display of color and fragrance.
- Take a short walk to the nearby Wellington Museum of Art, which showcases a range of contemporary art exhibitions. (Free admission, donations welcome)
Dinner
- Head to Boulcott Cafe on Courtenay Place for delicious New Zealand cuisine in an elegant setting.
Accommodation
- Stay at The Bolton Hotel Wellington, a luxurious hotel with stunning views of the city.
Things to Know
- Don’t miss the opportunity to take a wine tasting tour, which showcases some of Wellington’s best wines.
- If you’re visiting in January, be sure to catch the Wellington International Film Festival.
Transportation
- Use the bus network or walk/bike to get around the city, or take a taxi if needed.
- If you’re staying at The Bolton Hotel Wellington, ask about their airport shuttle service.