10 Best Things to do in Dunedin, New Zealand

Planning a trip to Dunedin and wondering what to do? You’re in the right place!

Dunedin might be a small coastal city, but there’s a TON to do. You’ve got charming historic buildings, quirky streets, sandy beaches, surf culture, wildlife, scenic train rides, and the Otago Peninsula right there when you need an escape from the city.

With so much to choose from, it can be tricky to figure out what’s actually worth your time! To make things easier, I’m sharing the 10 best things to do in Dunedin, from free attractions and scenic walks to wildlife tours, train rides, and more. Let’s get into it!

Dunedin at a Glance 

Before I get into the best things to do in Dunedin, here are a few practical things worth knowing before you arrive. Dunedin is fairly easy to get around, but a few things, especially the weather and getting out to the Otago Peninsula, need some extra planning!

Important tip: Pack those layers! Dunedin can be chilly and windy, especially around the coast, so don’t assume it’s warm just because the sun is out.

Plan your transportation: Central Dunedin is easy to explore on foot, but you’ll probably need a car or tour to get to the Otago Peninsula and some beaches. Local buses are always an option, but a car will save you a lot of time.

Check the tide for Tunnel Beach: Don’t make the mistake of visiting Tunnel Beach at high tide. You’ll get much more out of it at low tide, when you can actually explore the tunnel and beach.

Wear comfortable shoes: Dunedin is hilly, and you might come across steep walks or steps. Baldwin Street alone might have you questioning your shoe choices! Pack those trainers!

How I Would Spend 3 Days in Dunedin

🏖️ Day 1: Beach Time, Dolphins & Sunset Cruise 
Start with breakfast and some beach time, head out on a dolphin-watching cruise at sunset, and finish your first day with a casual beachfront dinner. 

🍺 Day 2: Dunedin, Boat Time & Sunset at Pier 60
Spend the morning exploring Dunedin, grab lunch at a local brewery, then relax on a private boat tour before sunset at Pier 60 and dinner by the water. 

🛶 Day 3: Aquarium, Kayaking & A Final Night Out 
Wrap up your trip with Clearwater Marine Aquarium, lunch at Kaia Bowls, a clear-kayak adventure, sunset drinks, and one last dinner by the beach.

Things to do in Dunedin 

1. Explore the wild side of the Otago Peninsula 

Wildlife, dramatic coastal scenery, and a little adventure? Count me in! The Otago Peninsula is one of Dunedin’s most beautiful spots, and I couldn’t wait to explore it. This half-day small-group tour was the perfect way to do just that, taking me to incredible viewpoints and a private conservation area without the hassle of renting a car!

It was such a fun day, and I think my guide, Ashley, definitely helped. She knew the area really well and shared a lot of history. Better yet, she kept things relaxed, so we never felt rushed from one stop to the next.

I was lucky enough to see SO much wildlife along the way! Ashley helped us spot everything from pukeko and black swans to spur-winged plovers and Buller’s albatross. But honestly, I was most excited about the sea lions and yellow-eyed penguins. Seeing these amazing animals in their natural habitat was such a special experience, and easily my favorite part of the tour!

And the views? Just as impressive! I found myself reaching for my camera constantly as we explored the peninsula’s rugged coastline. With only 10 people in our group, it felt really relaxed and personal, and we had plenty of opportunities to ask Ashley questions and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

I appreciated that they provided binoculars, which made spotting wildlife even more fun! They also had waterproof jackets available, though I’d recommend packing a few snacks and water since there are no food stops along the way.

Between the incredible wildlife, beautiful scenery, and Ashley’s fantastic guiding, this was such a memorable way to explore the Otago Peninsula. And with HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews, it’s clear I’m not the only one who loved it! If you’re hoping to see some of Dunedin’s famous wildlife without the hassle of driving, I can’t recommend this tour enough.

2. Hop aboard a train through the dramatic Taieri Gorge 

I never thought a five-hour train ride would be one of my favorite experiences in Dunedin, but here we are! This Taieri Gorge rail tour completely won me over with its jaw-dropping scenery and historic railway. Trust me, this is one train ride where you’ll want a window seat!

The adventure starts at the beautiful Dunedin Railway Station, and it’s worth arriving early to look around. The building is gorgeous, but make sure you head upstairs for a great view of the incredible mosaic floor below!

Once we got moving, I could barely take my eyes off the scenery. The train winds through the rugged Taieri Gorge, crossing towering viaducts and disappearing into tunnels carved by hand over a century ago. There are 10 in total, which is pretty impressive when you think about it!

One of my favorite moments was getting off the train to walk across a viaduct on a special footpath. Watching the train cross from outside was such a cool experience! There were also local stalls to browse for souvenirs near the end of the gorge.

I also loved the live commentary, which brought the railway’s fascinating history to life. Plus, there’s a small café, bar, and restrooms on board, making the journey surprisingly comfortable.

Yes, this tour takes up a good chunk of your day, but I honestly wouldn’t have wanted to rush it! Between the incredible views, fascinating history, and the novelty of traveling through the gorge by train, it was such a memorable experience!

3. Cruise the coast in search of albatrosses and seals 

If there’s one thing I love about Dunedin, it’s the incredible wildlife, and seeing it from the water makes it even more exciting! This cruise around the Otago Peninsula takes you along the rugged coastline in search of albatross, sea lions, and other fascinating creatures. And the best part? You never know what might pop up along the way!

The cruise departs from Port Chalmers or Portobello, so it’s easy to fit into your Dunedin plans. Groups are kept small, which I love because it means more room to move around and get a good look whenever wildlife appears. Plus, having a knowledgeable skipper like Rachel makes all the difference when you’re trying to spot animals in the wild!

One of the coolest things about this cruise is the chance to see albatross up close. These enormous seabirds are incredible to watch, especially when they’re soaring just above the water! Keep your eyes peeled for sea lions and shags too, although wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

It’s not all about the animals, either! You’ll also hear fascinating stories about old whaling stations, shipwrecks, and the harbor’s history. There’s even a wildlife checklist to help you keep track of what you spot, along with binoculars for a closer look.

And if that chilly coastal breeze gets to you, there’s an enclosed cabin where you can warm up before heading back out for more photos.

For such a short cruise, there’s so much to see! If you’re a wildlife lover like me, this is a fantastic way to experience Dunedin’s wild side without taking up your entire day.

4. Walk down to Dunedin’s iconic Tunnel Beach 

Tunnel Beach is one of Dunedin’s most popular and photographed beaches. It’s just 11 minutes from Dunedin CBD and is famous for its sandstone cliffs, natural rock arch, sea caves, and historic hand-carved tunnel leading down to the beach. So if you’ve got a couple of hours to spare, I’d make the short trip here.

The walk is around 2.6 km (1.6 miles) return and takes about an hour if you go all the way down to the beach and tunnel. You’ll start at the car park on Tunnel Beach Road, but you can also stop at the viewpoint if you don’t feel like doing the whole thing.

There are quite a few steps, and they can get slippery, so don’t rush down. You can also spot the bones of an extinct whale species along the track, which is pretty cool.

Just remember, what goes down must come back up! The return walk is steep, so sturdy shoes will definitely help. Also, check the tide before you go, as low tide is best for exploring the beach and tunnel. And if you want to avoid the crowds, go early or around sunset.

Overall, this is one of the best free things to do in Dunedin, especially if you want dramatic coastal scenery without traveling far from the city.

5. Feel the thrill of exploring by V8 trike 

Forget the big tour bus for an hour and hop on this V8 trike adventure instead! It’s a fun choice if you’re short on time but still want to see a bit of Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. Better yet, with a maximum of just four passengers plus the driver, it feels much more personal than a crowded bus tour.

You’ll kick things off in central Dunedin, cruising past landmarks like First Church of Otago, Speight’s Brewery, and the quirky Harbour Molars. And while riding around on a V8 trike sounds exciting enough, I love that you also get to hear some of the city’s history and local stories along the way. A little sightseeing with a lot more horsepower!

Then it’s off toward the Otago Peninsula, where the city streets give way to gorgeous coastal views. There’s even a quick photo stop, and let’s be real, you’ll probably want a picture of yourself on that awesome trike just as much as the scenery!

You’ll also cruise past St Clair Beach, one of Dunedin’s most popular coastal spots. It’s definitely somewhere I’d make a mental note to revisit if you have extra time, especially if you fancy a beachside stroll or a coffee with an ocean view.

Just keep the weather in mind, though, because it can get pretty chilly on an open trike! Luckily, warm jackets and sunglasses are provided if you need them. But even if it’s a little cold, I think the thrill of cruising around Dunedin on a V8 trike is worth bundling up for!

6. Walk up the world’s steepest residential street

Would you believe the world’s steepest residential street is right here in Dunedin? Yep, Baldwin Street is officially recognized as the steepest street in the world, with a gradient of 34.8%. When you see it in person, you’ll understand why. I honestly don’t know how the people who live at the top deal with that hill every day!

There’s not much to do here, but that’s part of the fun. Start at the bottom and walk up to the top. Stop for a breather if you need one, and check out the houses sitting at such a strange angle. And if you think walking up sounds tough, imagine running it! Baldwin Street used to host the annual Gutbuster race, where hundreds of runners raced to the top. It ran from 1988 to 2011. I definitely wouldn’t have signed up!

Bring your camera too. The steepness makes for some fun perspective photos, especially if you stand at the bottom and shoot upward. Some of the mailboxes are even tilted to match the street, which makes it look even more bizarre.

Best of all, it’s completely free. So if you’re nearby, why not stop and see just how steep it really is?

7. Take in Dunedin’s gardens, architecture, and city views

Dunedin has some seriously cool sights, but trying to squeeze them all into one day can be a challenge! That’s why I love this 5.5-hour sightseeing tour. From gorgeous historic buildings and sweeping city views to a castle on the Otago Peninsula, it packs in so much without the stress of figuring out how to get everywhere yourself!

One of the first stops is Baldwin Street, where you can see just how ridiculously steep this famous road really is! If you decide to tackle the climb, your legs might have a few complaints. Luckily, the next stop at Signal Hill is much easier on the legs, with sweeping views over Dunedin that are well worth pulling your camera out for!

I also love that this tour shows off Dunedin’s historic side. You’ll get to see the University of Otago, New Zealand’s oldest university, with its beautiful clock tower, before checking out the grand Dunedin Railway Station. Between the impressive architecture and intricate mosaics, it’s easy to see why this building is such a local landmark!

But the real treat is heading out to the Otago Peninsula to visit Larnach Castle. Yes, New Zealand has a castle! You’ll have about an hour to explore the gorgeous gardens and grab a bite to eat. Just remember that garden entry is included, but going inside the castle costs extra.

And the best part? Hotel or Port Chalmers pickup and drop-off are included, so you can leave the driving to someone else. If you want to see a little bit of everything Dunedin has to offer without spending your day planning routes, this tour is a fantastic choice!

8. Slow down in the Dunedin Botanic Garden 

Dunedin Botanic Gardens is a great place to wander around for an hour or two, and you don’t even have to pay a cent to get in. This is New Zealand’s oldest botanic garden and covers around 28 hectares (about 69 acres), so you probably won’t see it all in one visit, and there’s lots to see!

You’ll find formal gardens, open lawns, rhododendrons, native plants, and thousands of other species throughout the grounds. Definitely make time for the Native Plant Trail. It features 21 native plants and explains how Ngāi Tahu Māori used them for food, clothing, medicine, and even musical instruments. 

You also have the Winter Garden glasshouse, where you might come across the giant corpse plant. Yes, that’s really its name! When it blooms, the smell is supposed to be awful, and it has even made some visitors feel faint. I’m not sure I’d be rushing in to smell it myself!

Bird lovers can visit the Aviary near the Upper Garden car park, although the birds tend to sleep during the middle of the day. Go early or later in the afternoon if you want to see them active.

I’d save the gardens for a morning or afternoon when you don’t have too much planned. It really is a nice break from sightseeing.

9. Taste your way through central Dunedin

One of my favorite ways to get to know a new city is through its food, and Dunedin certainly didn’t disappoint! This three-hour walking food tour was such a fun way to discover the local food scene, with some delicious surprises along the way. And trust me, you’ll want to arrive hungry!

I got to try everything from classic fish and chips at New Zealand’s oldest fish and chip shop to one of Dunedin’s famous pies. But things got a little more adventurous when I sampled botanical gin from a local sustainable distillery and even tried traditional haggis! I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with that last one, but it was all part of the fun.

What I really liked was how relaxed the whole experience felt. We never spent too long at any one stop, so it was a fun mix of walking, eating, and discovering new places. Plus, the route was mostly flat and paved, which made it easy to get around.

Our guide, Ross, was fantastic! He had a great sense of humor and kept us entertained with stories about Dunedin’s history, quirky buildings, and local characters. Honestly, I enjoyed hearing his stories almost as much as the food! With a maximum of 12 people, it also felt really friendly and personal.

By the end, I was full, happy, and had discovered a whole new side of Dunedin! If you love trying local food and getting off the usual sightseeing trail, I can’t recommend this tour enough.

10. Hunt down colorful murals across the city 

If you’re wandering around central Dunedin, keep an eye out for the street art. More than 50 commissioned murals dot the city center, created by local and international artists.

You can follow the self-guided Dunedin Street Art Trail, which starts on Vogel Street, but you don’t have to commit to the whole route. Just pick a few murals that fit into your day.

Some murals are HUGE. Australian artist Fintan Magee’s “Chasing the Thin White Cloud” covers the side of a three-story building on Rattray Street, while “Toothfish” on Wharf Street is a black-and-white mural that’s hard to miss. 

Then there’s the giant Ed Sheeran mural just off George Street. Tyler Kennedy Stent painted it in 2018, and it caused quite a stir. It’s still one of the murals people tend to look for.

What I really like is the mix of old and new. Modern artwork pops up on heritage buildings and in laneways, often near cafés. It’s a fun contrast to look at.

If you want to follow more of the trail, you could easily spend a couple of hours doing it. Otherwise, just pick a few and admire away as you come across them. This couldn’t be easier: no ticket, no lines, no schedule, no fuss, really, just pure street art.

Related Read: Planning to explore more of New Zealand? Check out my 2-week South Island itineraries for three tried-and-tested routes packed with incredible scenery, unforgettable adventures, and must-see stops!

Where to Stay in Dunedin

After a busy day exploring Dunedin, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to come back to! I recommend staying in the city center because it’s walkable, packed with great restaurants and cafés, and close to attractions like The Octagon and Dunedin Railway Station. Plus, it’s a convenient base for heading out on tours and exploring the Otago Peninsula!

Dunedin House – $$$ 

If you’re looking for somewhere with character, Dunedin House is my top luxury choice here. This lovely 4-star boutique stay feels nothing like your typical hotel. It feels more like a private members’ club, which I like most about it. The original wood floors remain, along with antique furniture, stained glass, and classic artwork, all of which add to that exclusive feel.

The rooms are spacious, and you get a few extra perks like free breakfast and parking, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs. There’s also a pool room and a lounge with a big-screen TV and Sky Sports if you feel like hanging out and cheering. Plus, there’s a terrace and shared outdoor spaces with amazing views over Dunedin and the harbor.

Location-wise, it’s just a short walk from The Octagon and Speight’s Brewery. Prices start at around $300 NZD per night. See current rates and lock in your dates here! 

Distinction Dunedin Hotel – $$ 

Distinction Dunedin Hotel is my favorite mid-range stay in the city center. This was my base in Dunedin, and honestly, I’d book it again in a second! It’s housed in the former Chief Post Office building, built in 1937, and it still has the original facade. Inside, though, it’s been transformed with sleek, modern design, which I really enjoyed.

And did I mention the rooms? They’re some of the largest in Dunedin, and even the studios come with fully equipped kitchens, so they’re pretty handy if you’re looking to save on food. The restaurant is set inside the original steel-doored postal vaults, and I must admit, dining there is pretty cool.

Location-wise, you’re just a stone’s throw from Queen’s Gardens and the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum. Better yet, the area is completely flat, so getting around on foot is never a hassle. Prices start at around $250 NZD per night. Check availability and book our favorite stay in Dunedin here!

The Victoria Hotel Dunedin – $ 

If you’re trying to save and want something practical, The Victoria Hotel Dunedin is a fantastic choice. You’ve got studios and apartments with kitchenettes, so you can save a bit more if you like cooking instead of eating out every night. There’s also on-site laundry, which is handy if you’re staying for a while.

There’s a restaurant and lounge bar too, but what I really like (and you probably will too if you’re into rugby) is that the hotel sponsors The Highlanders rugby team. You might even spot fans here, supporting their team at the nearby Forsyth Barr Stadium.

You’re also right next to The Octagon and big supermarkets like Countdown and New World, so you won’t have any trouble stocking up. Prices start at around $170 NZD per night, so not bad at all for a central stay with a kitchenette! Check dates and book The Victoria Hotel Dunedin here!

Want to see more great options for Dunedin? Browse more popular hotels here!

Related Read: Not sure if the City Centre is right for you? Check out my detailed guide on the best areas to stay in Dunedin and find the best neighborhood for your trip!

Thanks for reading!