Ultimate 3-Day Wellington Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See
Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, delights visitors with its creative spirit, harborside beauty, eclectic cuisine, and windswept hills.

Day 1: City Sights & Waterfront Wonders
Morning
Start your Wellington adventure at the Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum, renowned for its interactive exhibits on Māori culture, natural history, and art.
Grab a coffee and breakfast at Moore Wilson's Cafe, a beloved local spot known for fresh pastries and artisan goods.
Afternoon
Stroll the picturesque Wellington Waterfront, lined with sculptures, pop-up markets, and lively eateries, perfect for people-watching and harbor views.
Pop into Gelissimo for award-winning gelato, made with unique Kiwi flavors and local ingredients.
Evening
Dine at Ortega Fish Shack, a quirky, much-loved eatery serving the freshest local seafood in a relaxed, maritime-inspired setting.
Cap off the night with craft cocktails and creative vibes at Havana Bar, famed for its live music and vintage Cuban décor.
Day 2: Hills, Gardens & Hidden Lanes
Morning
Ride the iconic Wellington Cable Car up the hillside for panoramic city and harbor views—a classic Wellington experience.
Wander through the lush Wellington Botanic Garden, bursting with native plants, vibrant flowers, and tranquil walking paths.
Afternoon
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Picnic Cafe, nestled within the gardens and offering seasonal Kiwi fare in a serene setting.
Discover quirky boutiques, coffee houses, and street art along Cuba Street, one of Wellington’s most colorful and creative precincts.
Evening
Experience modern New Zealand cuisine at Logan Brown, set in a stunning former bank with soaring ceilings and a reputation for creative, sustainable dining.
Finish your night at Fortune Favours, a hip craft brewery where you can sample inventive beers and mingle with locals in a lively, industrial-chic space.
Day 3: Nature, Film & Local Flavors
Morning
Take a morning walk at Zealandia, a groundbreaking eco-sanctuary where you can spot rare native birds and experience New Zealand’s forest as it once was.
Stop for a hearty breakfast at Prefab, a local institution celebrated for its roasted coffee and bustling brunch scene.
Afternoon
Step into the world of movie magic at Weta Workshop, where you’ll discover behind-the-scenes secrets from The Lord of the Rings and other cinematic epics.
Head to Chocolate Fish Cafe for a laid-back seaside lunch, famous for its seafood sammies and sweeping views over Evans Bay.
Evening
Have a memorable dinner at Shepherd, acclaimed for creative shared plates and a passion for local, sustainable ingredients.
End your Wellington journey with a nightcap at The Library, an intimate lounge bar filled with books, delectable desserts, and live jazz.
Customize Your Wellington Experience
Quick suggestions