How to Spend TWO DAYS in Christchurch, New Zealand: 2-Day Itinerary 

Heading to Christchurch soon? You’re in the right place!

This South Island city blends history, culture, and natural beauty, with everything from historic trams and riverside strolls to alpine adventures, quirky neighborhoods, and a thriving food scene. With so many options, it can be tricky to know where to start. That’s where I can help!

After living in New Zealand and exploring Christchurch more times than I can count, I’ve put together this two-day itinerary that mixes iconic highlights with local favorites. You’ll experience the city from every angle—by river, tram, gondola, and even train—while still leaving time to slow down and enjoy. Here’s exactly how to spend two unforgettable days in Christchurch!

Itinerary Overview

Christchurch is a compact city, and if you’re staying in the CBD or nearby suburbs, it’s easy to get around on foot, by metro, or even on the iconic Christchurch tram. If you’re based further out or planning to explore more of the South Island, having a rental car will make things much more convenient.

This 2-day itinerary is designed to give you a balance of sightseeing, culture, food, and nightlife without feeling rushed. Follow this plan and you’ll see Christchurch from every angle, while also enjoying some of the city’s best dining and nightlife.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect on this two-day Christchurch itinerary:

Day 1: Start with breakfast at The Apron Cafe before joining a small-group tour to see Christchurch by river, tram, and gondola with lunch in the Botanic Gardens. Spend the afternoon at a museum, enjoy dinner on colorful New Regent Street, and finish the night with drinks and music on lively St Asaph Street.

Day 2: Board the TranzAlpine train for a full-day trip through the Canterbury Plains, Waimakariri Gorge, and Southern Alps, with guided walks in Arthur’s Pass and lunch at a country hotel before returning to Christchurch. Cap off your trip with dinner at Fiddlesticks, followed by gelato at Rollickin or a nightcap at Kong.

Day 1

Breakfast – The Apron Cafe

You’ll want to make the most of your morning in Christchurch, so starting with a good breakfast is key. The Apron Cafe is my go-to spot, just around the block from the Canterbury Museum, where the morning tour begins. Since it opens at 6 am, you can grab a relaxed meal before meeting your group without worrying about time. I recommend skipping the hotel pickup so you can stop here first—it makes the morning flow so much better.

The cafe has all the essentials done right: hearty breakfast plates, lighter bites if you prefer something small, and a strong cup of coffee to wake you up. The service is quick, and the laid-back vibe makes it feel like a true local gem. From there, it’s only a short walk to the meeting point, so you can head into your tour feeling fueled and ready for the day.

Morning – See Christchurch’s top sights with a local guide

If you’re short on time but still want to see the best of Christchurch, this small-group highlights tour is hard to beat. Running from 9 am to 3 pm, it manages to pack in a lot without ever feeling rushed, giving you a real sense of the city’s history and character. Sure, you could ride the tram or gondola on your own, but the beauty of this tour is how much you get included—and how easy it makes the day.

You can meet your tour guide downtown Christhchurch, or get picked up from your hotel, depending on the number of people in your group. Double check before you head out!

Things start with a peaceful gondola-style boat ride down the Avon River, which feels like the perfect introduction to the city. From there, you’ll hop on the historic tramway and circle through the central city, using your included pass for unlimited rides while learning more about Christchurch along the way.

The afternoon takes you up the Christchurch Gondola for sweeping views of the Port Hills, Lyttelton Harbour, and the city below. It’s the kind of perspective that really ties everything together, especially with your guide adding stories and context you’d miss on your own. 

Midday, there’s also a relaxed lunch break in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a beautiful spot to pause and recharge before heading back out.

By the time everything wraps up, you’ll have seen Christchurch from the water, the streets, and the hills above, all in one seamless day that makes it easy to understand why travelers consistently rave about this tour—read the glowing five-star reviews here!

Afternoon – Visit a museum

The tour wraps up around 3 pm, leaving just enough time to fit in one museum before they close at 5 pm. Conveniently, the tour can end at the Canterbury Museum, which makes it easy to head straight inside. If you’d rather branch out, a couple of other excellent museums are close by, so you can pick whichever best fits your interests.

• Canterbury Museum – A Christchurch classic, this museum dives deep into New Zealand’s natural and cultural history. You’ll find everything from Antarctic exploration exhibits to Māori artifacts and quirky local collections. Since the morning tour can end here, it’s the most convenient choice if you want to make the most of your limited time.

• Quake City – This small but powerful museum focuses on the 2010–2011 Canterbury earthquakes and their impact on Christchurch. Through multimedia displays and personal stories, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s resilience and its people. It’s both moving and informative, making it well worth a visit.

• Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū – If you prefer art over history, head to this striking glass-fronted gallery instead. The rotating exhibitions showcase contemporary and traditional works, often highlighting New Zealand artists. Even if you’re not a big gallery-goer, the building itself is stunning and worth stepping inside.

Dinner – New Regent Street

From the museums, it’s just a 10-minute walk to New Regent Street, one of the most charming spots in Christchurch. This pedestrian-friendly street is lined with colorful Spanish Mission–style buildings from the 1930s, making it a great photo stop as well as a lively place to wander before dinner. It’s often called New Zealand’s prettiest street—and for good reason!

After the 2011 earthquake, it was carefully restored and reopened in 2013, and today it’s home to more than 40 boutique shops, bars, and restaurants. It’s also the only remaining heritage street in Christchurch, so it feels like you’ve stepped into a little pocket of history.

As the evening sets in, grab a seat outside one of the many restaurants and enjoy some people-watching before dinner. My top recommendation here is Twenty Seven Steps, a local favorite that has consistently earned awards for both its hospitality and incredible food. The menu changes seasonally, but the venison and fish of the night are always excellent choices, and you really shouldn’t skip dessert. 

While this is one of the pricier meals you’ll have in Christchurch, the quality and atmosphere make it worth every cent, and making reservations here is a must—it’s popular for good reason! Open Monday through Saturday from 5 pm to 10 pm, it’s the perfect spot to cap off your first day in the city.

Evening – Go for drinks on St Asaph Street

To finish off the evening, head over to St Asaph Street, just a 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from New Regent Street. This part of Christchurch is packed with lively bars and creative venues, making it a fun way to cap off your first day.

One of my favorite spots is Scoundrel, a laid-back warehouse bar with quirky decor (there’s even a vintage truck filled with plants parked inside). They have plenty of drink options and a friendly atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in. Right next door, you’ll find Space Academy, another warehouse-style venue that often hosts live music and community events. It has a relaxed, artsy feel and serves great drinks—plus, their pizza is a solid choice if you’re still a little hungry.

If you’re after something with more of a retro vibe, Retropolitan Social brings the fun with its ’70s-inspired decor, classic drinks, and live music on weekends. It’s the kind of place that instantly puts you in a good mood. And for something a bit different, check out Serve Ping Pong Club, where you can book a table for ping pong or smart darts and end the night with a little friendly competition.

No matter which spot you choose, St Asaph Street is the perfect place to toast the end of day one in Christchurch!

Day 2

Full day – Ride the TranzAlpine Train to Arthur’s Pass

Day two starts early, but it’s worth setting the alarm for this one. The TranzAlpine train journey has been called New Zealand’s most scenic rail trip, and this small-group tour combines it with an unforgettable day exploring Arthur’s Pass National Park. The tour departs at 7:30 am and returns around 4:30 pm, so you’ll have a full day of mountains, rivers, and forests ahead.

After a hotel pick-up, you’ll board the TranzAlpine and settle into your carriage as the scenery unfolds. The train glides across the flat farmlands of the Canterbury Plains before winding through the Waimakariri Gorge and into the heart of the Southern Alps. 

The ride also takes you through a series of tunnels and across dramatic viaducts, including the impressive Staircase Viaduct, one of the engineering highlights of the journey. The views are spectacular the entire way, and you can step out onto the open-air viewing platform for photos. If you’d rather stay cozy, the oversized windows at your seat frame the landscapes perfectly. 

On arrival at Arthur’s Pass, your guide takes over for a deeper dive into the area. You’ll travel by minivan along the old stagecoach route through Otira Gorge, stop for short guided bushwalks by the rivers, and see natural landmarks like Cave Stream and the dramatic limestone formations of Castle Hill (you might recognize them from The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe). 

Along the way, your guide shares stories of how Māori once crossed this region in search of precious greenstone, adding cultural context to the already breathtaking landscapes. Plus, Castle Hill itself is unforgettable—its huge limestone boulders are a favorite with climbers and photographers alike.

Lunch at a local country hotel is included, giving you a chance to refuel before heading back. By the time you return to Christchurch, you’ll have crossed plains, gorges, and alpine passes, covering an incredible amount of ground in just one day. It’s one of the most rewarding ways to experience New Zealand’s South Island without ever feeling rushed. Just check out HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here if you still need convincing!

Dinner – Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar

After a full day out on the TranzAlpine, you’ll be ready for a relaxed but memorable dinner back in Christchurch. One of the city’s top-rated spots is Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar, conveniently located near the Arts Centre and Canterbury Museum. The space feels modern and stylish but still welcoming, with a lively atmosphere that works just as well for a casual meal as it does for a special night out. Because it’s such a popular choice, I’d recommend booking a table here in advance to avoid missing out.

The menu is seasonal and always highlights fresh, local ingredients, so no matter what you order, it feels thoughtfully prepared. From hearty mains to lighter plates, there’s plenty of variety, and the drink list makes it easy to pair your meal with something you’ll love. After a long day of sightseeing, this is the kind of place where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy excellent food in a comfortable setting.

Evening – Dessert or drinks

If you’ve still got some energy after dinner, Christchurch has a couple of great options for ending the night on a high note. With just an eight-minute walk, you can find yourself at Rollickin Gelato Café, a playful dessert spot known for its quirky flavors and fun vibe. It’s always buzzing with locals and visitors alike, and there’s something so satisfying about finishing the day with a scoop (or two) of creamy gelato.

If a nightcap sounds more appealing, take a six-minute stroll to Kong, a cozy lounge with a sophisticated speakeasy feel. The bartenders here know their craft, and the intimate setting makes it a nice contrast to the bustle of the day. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat or a crafted drink, either choice makes for a relaxed and memorable way to wrap up your two days in Christchurch.

Related Read: Find yourself with extra time? Check out my guide to the best things to do in Christchurch for even more fun activities!

Where to Stay in Christchurch

Now that you’ve planned your trip, you need the perfect place to stay! I recommend staying in Christchurch CBD, which will be the most convenient location with plenty of accommodation options. If these hotels are still available, they are my top choice for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay.

Luxury – $$$

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch is a five-star gem right in the heart of the city, blending history, culture, and modern comfort. The rooms are elegant and thoughtfully designed, featuring plush bedding, air-conditioning, minibars, and luxurious touches like bathrobes and executive lounge access. Guests also rave about the warm service, 24-hour front desk, and the convenience of private parking.

Rooms typically range from $230 to $1,700+ NZD per night, depending on the suite and season. Check rates and book this stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Hotel 115 is a stylish boutique property in Christchurch CBD, offering a modern stay with a unique twist—the historic tram literally runs through the hotel! Rooms vary in style and layout, and each is fitted with flat-screen TVs, unlimited Wi-Fi, and sleek private bathrooms. Guests also enjoy access to a partner gym, pool, and spa, which is a real perk for a mid-range property. 

Expect to pay between $180 and $660 NZD per night, depending on the room type and season. Check availability and book this stay here on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Southwark Hotel & Apartments offer a modern and affordable base right in the center of Christchurch. The property features a range of studios and apartments, each with kitchenettes, Netflix, and unlimited free Wi-Fi—ideal for longer stays or anyone who likes to self-cater. Guests can also use a large communal kitchen, plus the on-site laundry facilities add to the convenience.

Nightly rates for a one-bedroom stay generally start around $110 NZD and go up to about $375 NZD, depending on the size of the studio or apartment. Book this stay here on Booking.com!

Thanks for reading!

Two days in Christchurch is a great amount of time to explore the city’s top sights and discover some of my favorite local spots. Many travelers use Christchurch as a base for exploring the South Island, so don’t just fly in and out – hang out for a while, it’s worth it!

If you need help planning more of your travels, see all of my South Island blogs here! After living in Queenstown and traveling to nearly every corner of the island, I have a lot of resources to share. Here are a few related blogs to get you started:

13 BEST Day Trips from Christchurch to Explore More

6 BEST Campervan Rentals in Christchurch + My Essential Rental Tips!

5 BEST Mount Cook Tours from Christchurch