Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital in North Island, is a city that perfectly blends natural beauty, cultural treasures, and a buzzing waterfront atmosphere. With its hilltop lookouts, iconic museums, and lively food scene, the city is compact yet packed with experiences. If you only have two days in Wellington, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time—whether you’re drawn to sweeping harbor views, gardens bursting with color, or world-class cultural attractions.

Getting there

Wellington is easily accessible by air, sea, and road. Wellington International Airport welcomes daily flights from major cities across the world. Once you’ve arrived in Wellington, hiring a rental car or relying on public transport makes exploring this compact yet hilly city a breeze. While those heading north enjoy one of the country’s most scenic road trips, the ferries across the Cook Strait offer a stunning journey to the south.

Touch down in the afternoon, pick up your rental car, and check into your hotel. Depending on your energy, you might enjoy a short evening stroll along the waterfront — an excellent way to set the tone for your two days in the capital.

Start your Day 1 with a ride on the Wellington Cable Car, an iconic red funicular connecting the city’s Lambton Quay with the scenic Kelburn lookout. The cable car’s short but spectacular journey rises 120 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views over Wellington’s harbor and city.

At the summit, step out onto the Kelburn platform for a postcard-perfect photo opportunity and soak up the fresh breeze before exploring nearby attractions. The cable car is not only a convenient link between downtown and the Botanic Garden, but also a charming piece of Wellington’s heritage. The ride takes about five minutes, and tickets can be purchased at the lower station or online in advance to skip the line.

After reaching the top, make time to discover the Cable Car Museum, located in the original winding house beside Kelburn station. This free museum delves into the engineering marvel of Wellington’s most beloved transport system. Highlights include two beautifully restored cable cars, interactive engines and machinery displays, historical photos, and a charming mini cinema showing short films about Wellington’s cable cars and tramways. The museum’s exhibits capture the sense of innovation and community that define Wellington’s history, making it a must-visit for curious travelers. Entry to the Cable Car Museum is free, and details including current opening hours, can be found on the official Wellington Cable Car website.

In the next block, you'll explore Space Place at Carter Observatory, a family-friendly science center located atop the Wellington Botanic Garden and accessible from Kelburn station.

Space Place is home to a state-of-the-art planetarium, stargazing experiences, hands-on exhibits, and two historic telescopes. Planetarium shows, Māori astronomy features, and interactive galleries make the mysteries of the southern skies accessible and fun for all ages.Admission fees apply, and it’s advisable to check the official website for opening hours and ticket prices.

After lunch, head to the remarkable Mount Victoria Lookout, perched 200 meters above the city.

This vantage point offers sweeping 360-degree views of Wellington, its harbor, and the surrounding hills. The lookout is easily accessible by car or a short hike from the city center, making it a perfect stop to take in the city’s stunning natural backdrop. Whether you’re admiring the cityscape or spotting sailboats in the harbor, Mount Victoria provides an unforgettable perspective of Wellington’s unique charm.

As evening falls on Day 1, enjoy Wellington’s lively waterfront, stretching from Queens Wharf to Oriental Bay and beyond.

Stroll over the City to Sea Bridge—a striking bi-cultural architectural landmark featuring Māori art—and savor views of the harbor dotted with ferries and yachts. The area is home to public sculptures, memorials, cafes, and the popular golden sands of Oriental Bay. Pause for a waterside dinner or a relaxed picnic with city lights as your backdrop.

Begin Day 2 in the tranquil haven of the Wellington Botanic Garden, an expansive 25-hectare tapestry of native and exotic plants, rose gardens, duck ponds, and winding trails.

Established in 1844, the garden celebrates New Zealand’s pioneering history and natural diversity, with highlights such as the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, Begonia House, Treehouse Visitor Centre, and glow worm walks at dusk. Don’t miss the panoramic city and harbor views available from several spots within the gardens. Entry to the Wellington Botanic Garden is free and it’s open daily from sunrise to sunset. More information can be found on the official website.

After a scenic stroll and lunch, take a leisurely walk downhill from the gardens back into the city, soaking in both natural beauty and city views along the way.

Your afternoon and the final destination in Wellington is the world-renowned Te Papa Tongarewa – Museum of New Zealand, located on Wellington’s waterfront.

Te Papa enthralls visitors with hands-on exhibitions, powerful Māori and Pacific cultural displays, world-class art and natural history, and the famous Colossal Squid. Innovative galleries ensure a memorable experience for every age, and immersive discovery zones engage younger children. Entry is free for New Zealanders and residents, while charges apply for international visitors and some paid exhibitions or experiences. International visitors aged 16 years and older require a museum entry ticket and can be purchased online.

Two days in Wellington is just enough to experience the highlights of this compact yet captivating capital. From the timeless charm of the Cable Car and sweeping panoramas of Mount Victoria to the cultural treasures of Te Papa and the lush Botanic Garden, this city has something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or as part of a longer New Zealand trip, Wellington’s mix of views, culture, and waterfront energy will leave a lasting impression.

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