Content Summary
Discover Wellington's vibrant arts scene, world-class coffee, and stunning harbor. From Te Papa museum and cable car views to craft beer trails and film studio magic at Weta Workshop.
Key Takeaways
- Day 1 focuses on Te Papa Museum and Cuba Street culture (NZD 50-150 total cost)
- Day 2 explores cable car, gardens, and Weta Workshop magic (NZD 80-200 including tours)
- Day 3 combines harbor walks, markets, and craft beer scene (NZD 60-180 budget needed)
- Book Weta Workshop tours 3-5 days ahead, especially weekends
- Stay in CBD or Cuba Quarter for walking access everywhere
- Total 3-day budget: NZD 190-530 per person including all activities, meals, and transport
Common Questions
What is the perfect 3-day itinerary for Wellington?
Day 1 explores Te Papa Museum, waterfront, and Cuba Street culture. Day 2 features cable car, Botanic Gardens, and Weta Workshop tour. Day 3 combines Mount Victoria views with craft beer trail. Budget NZD 100-400 per day.
When is the best time to visit Wellington?
Spring and autumn generally offer the best weather for Wellington.
Practical Information
- Duration
- 3 days
- Budget Range
- EUR 150 - 600
- Best Time to Visit
- Spring/Autumn
- Difficulty Level
- Easy
Location Context
3 Days in Wellington 2025: New Zealand's Cultural Capital & Creative Heart
Discover Wellington's vibrant arts scene, world-class coffee, and stunning harbor. From Te Papa museum and cable car views to craft beer trails and film studio magic at Weta Workshop.
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What's the perfect 3-day itinerary for Wellington?
Day 1 explores Te Papa Museum, waterfront, and Cuba Street culture. Day 2 features cable car, Botanic Gardens, and Weta Workshop tour. Day 3 combines Mount Victoria views with craft beer trail. Budget NZD 100-400 per day.
Related questions:
- • How much does 3 days in Wellington cost?
- • What's the best area to stay in Wellington?
- • Is 3 days enough for Wellington?
Your 3-Day Wellington Adventure
TL;DR: Explore Wellington's highlights in 3 action-packed days covering 16 attractions with a budget of €NZD 285-NZD 1500-2640 per person.
- 1 Day 1 focuses on Te Papa Museum and Cuba Street culture (NZD 50-150 total cost)
- 2 Day 2 explores cable car, gardens, and Weta Workshop magic (NZD 80-200 including tours)
- 3 Day 3 combines harbor walks, markets, and craft beer scene (NZD 60-180 budget needed)
- 4 Book Weta Workshop tours 3-5 days ahead, especially weekends
- 5 Stay in CBD or Cuba Quarter for walking access everywhere
- 6 Total 3-day budget: NZD 190-530 per person including all activities, meals, and transport
Wellington captivates visitors with an extraordinary 3-day journey through New Zealand's coolest little capital, where world-class culture meets harbor beauty and creative energy pulses through laneway cafes. From exploring Te Papa's treasures and riding the historic cable car to Weta Workshop's movie magic and craft beer discoveries on Cuba Street, the windy city delivers authentic experiences in a wonderfully compact setting. With daily costs ranging from NZD 100 to NZD 400 per person, this culturally rich itinerary showcases why Wellington consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities despite its notorious winds. The best time to visit is during summer (December-March) when outdoor festivals thrive, though the city's indoor attractions and cozy cafes make any season rewarding. This itinerary covers approximately 30 kilometers of exploration on foot, perfectly suited to discovering why locals proudly call Wellington the cultural capital of New Zealand.
Your 3-Day Wellington Itinerary
Day 1: Museums, Waterfront & Cuba Culture
Culture & Creativity
Day 1
Immerse in Wellington's cultural heart from national treasures to bohemian streets
Total Cost
NZD50-150
Walking Distance
10 km
Activities
4 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 10 km journey!
Day 1 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Te Papa Tongarewa Museum
Explore New Zealand's national museum with interactive exhibits and cultural treasures
💡 Tip: Free entry. Don't miss Gallipoli exhibition, earthquake house, colossal squid. Māori galleries exceptional. Allow minimum 3 hours
Wellington Waterfront Walk
Stroll the scenic harbor promenade with sculptures and city views
💡 Tip: Free. Start at Te Papa, walk to Queens Wharf. Public art installations. Saturday market at Harbourside. Wind can be strong
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Leeds Street Bakery • Artisan bakery and cafe
💰 NZD12-22 per person
Must try: Croissants, Sourdough sandwiches, Coffee
Popular local spot
Afternoon (1:30 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4.5 hours
Cuba Street & Surrounds
Explore Wellington's bohemian heart with vintage shops, street art, and cafes
💡 Tip: Free to explore. Bucket Fountain midpoint landmark. Best vintage shops, record stores, bookshops. Street performers common
Wellington City Gallery
Contemporary art gallery with rotating exhibitions and local artists
💡 Tip: Free entry. Excellent contemporary art. Building itself architecturally interesting. Good for escaping wind/rain
Evening (6:00 PM - 10:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Courtenay Place Dining & Entertainment
Experience Wellington's dining and entertainment precinct
💡 Tip: Restaurant row - book ahead weekends. Many cuisines. Light House Cinema for arthouse films. Busy Friday/Saturday nights
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Charley Noble • Eatery & Bar with wood-fired cooking
💰 NZD28-45 per person
Must try: Wood-fired fish, Craft cocktails, Shared plates
Buzzy corner location
🌙 Evening Options
- • Havana Bar
- • Cuban-themed bar with live music
- • Until late
- • Live music, cocktails, late-night coffee
🚇 Getting Around
transport: Walking day - all attractions connected
timing: Te Papa needs 3+ hours minimum
weather: Indoor options for Wellington wind
🏨 Where to Stay: Stay in CBD or Cuba Quarter for walking access to all Day 1 attractions. QT Wellington offers quirky luxury near Te Papa, while Nomads Capital provides budget options on Wakefield Street.
Day 2: Cable Car, Gardens & Movie Magic
Views & Behind the Scenes
Day 2
Ride to hilltop gardens then discover Wellington's film industry secrets
Total Cost
NZD80-200
Walking Distance
8 km
Activities
4 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 8 km journey!
Day 2 Schedule
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Wellington Cable Car
Ride the iconic red cable car from Lambton Quay to Kelburn
💡 Tip: Morning light best for photos
Wellington Botanic Garden
Explore 25 hectares of native and exotic plants with city views
💡 Tip: Free entry. Rose garden (Nov-April), native forest, stunning views. Many paths - choose based on fitness. Begonia House beautiful
Carter Observatory
Explore space and astronomy with planetarium shows and exhibits
💡 Tip: NZD 16.50 adults. Planetarium shows hourly. Great for kids. Historic Thomas Cooke telescope. City views from outside
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Kelburn Village or return to city • Cafes and delis
💰 NZD15-28 per person
Must try: Scopa Caffe pizzas, Deli sandwiches
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Weta Workshop Tour
Behind-the-scenes look at film props and effects from LOTR, Avatar, and more
💡 Tip: Book ahead! Standard tour NZD 35. Thunderbirds tour NZD 45. Workshop tour includes props, costumes, weapons. Photo ops
Weta Cave Mini Museum
Free mini museum with props and gift shop at Weta Workshop
💡 Tip: Free entry. Great gift shop for film fans. Life-size characters for photos. Browse before/after tour
Evening (6:00 PM - 9:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Zealandia Twilight Tour
Guided tour of ecosanctuary to spot kiwi and native birds at dusk
💡 Tip: NZD 89 twilight tour best for kiwi spotting. Book ahead. Wear walking shoes, bring jacket. 95% kiwi sighting success
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Logan Brown • Fine dining in former bank
💰 NZD38-65 per person
Must try: Degustation menu, Local seafood, NZ wines
Special occasion dining
🚇 Getting Around
transport: Cable car, bus to Weta, return taxi from Zealandia
timing: Book afternoon and evening tours in advance
alternative: Skip Zealandia for earlier dinner if tired
🏨 Where to Stay: Central city accommodation makes cable car access easy. Consider staying near Cuba Street for dining options after evening activities.
Day 3: Harbor Views, Markets & Craft Beer Trail
Local Life & Views
Day 3
Summit Mount Victoria, explore weekend markets, and taste Wellington's craft beer scene
Total Cost
NZD60-180
Walking Distance
12 km
Activities
4 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 12 km journey!
Day 3 Schedule
Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Mount Victoria Lookout
Hike or drive to Wellington's best 360-degree viewpoint
💡 Tip: Free. Walking track from Oriental Bay (45 mins) or drive/bus to top. Best views in Wellington. Film location for LOTR
Weekend Market Visit
Browse local crafts and food at Harbourside or Underground Market
💡 Tip: Harbourside Market Sunday 7:30-2. Underground Market Saturday 10-4. Fresh produce, crafts, food trucks. Cash helpful
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Prefab Eatery • All-day brunch and lunch
💰 NZD18-32 per person
Must try: Eggs benedict, Chicken waffles, Fresh juices
Hip converted warehouse
Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Oriental Bay & Waterfront
Walk Wellington's golden mile beach and waterfront promenade
💡 Tip: Free. Swimming beach in summer. Cafes and ice cream. Freyberg Pool if weather poor. Band rotunda photogenic
Wellington Craft Beer Trail
Sample Wellington's thriving craft beer scene at multiple venues
💡 Tip: Self-guided trail. Start at Garage Project. Then Little Beer Quarter, Fortune Favours. Many within walking distance
Evening (5:30 PM - 9:00 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Hannah Playhouse or Live Music
Catch a show at intimate theater or live music at San Fran or Bodega
💡 Tip: Check What's On. Hannah Playhouse for intimate theater. San Fran/Bodega for live music. Book ahead for shows
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Noble Rot Wine Bar • Small plates and natural wines
💰 NZD25-45 per person
Must try: Daily specials, Cheese selection, Natural wines
Intimate wine bar vibes
🌙 Evening Options
- • Garage Project Taproom
- • Late night craft beers
- • Until midnight Friday-Saturday
- • Relaxed brewery vibes
🚇 Getting Around
transport: Mix of walking and short bus rides
timing: Start early for Mount Victoria light
flexibility: Weather dependent - have indoor backup
🏨 Where to Stay: Final night near transport links if flying out next day. Willis Street provides airport bus access.
Complete Budget Breakdown
Wellington offers excellent value with many free attractions balanced by world-class dining and unique experiences like Weta Workshop.
Budget Traveler
💰per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
3-Day Total
NZD 285-510 for 3 days
Attractions
N/A
Meals
N/A
Transport
N/A
Extras
N/A
Mid-Range
💎per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
3-Day Total
NZD 780-1530 for 3 days
Attractions
N/A
Meals
N/A
Transport
N/A
Extras
N/A
Luxury
👑per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
3-Day Total
NZD 1500-2640+ for 3 days
Attractions
N/A
Meals
N/A
Transport
N/A
Extras
N/A
💡 Smart Money-Saving Tips
Te Papa Museum and Botanic Gardens are free
Happy hours 4-6 PM at many bars save 20-30%
Harbourside Market Sunday for cheap eats
Walking city saves on transport costs
Many galleries and Cuba Street browsing free
✨ Worth the Splurge
Weta Workshop tour for film fans (NZD 35-45)
Zealandia twilight tour for kiwi sighting (NZD 89)
Logan Brown for special occasion dining (NZD 60-80)
Craft beer tasting trail (NZD 40-60)
Cable car return ticket (NZD 9)
Note: All prices are estimates for 2025 and exclude accommodation. Actual costs may vary by season and booking timing. Prices shown in EUR.
Essential Planning Tips
Wellington Wind
The nickname 'Windy Wellington' is earned - average wind speed 27 km/h. Always carry windproof jacket and layers. Hair ties essential. Choose accommodation in sheltered areas if wind-sensitive. Buildings create wind tunnels.
Compact & Walkable
Wellington is NZ's most walkable city - everything central within 20-minute walk. Good shoes essential for hills. Free WiFi throughout CBD. Snapper card works on buses and cable car. Download Metlink app for buses.
Coffee Capital
Wellington has more cafes per capita than NYC. Coffee culture serious here - flat white invented in Wellington (disputed with Australia). Try: Flight Coffee, Havana, Midnight Espresso. Most cafes excellent.
Weather Variability
Four seasons in one day common. Layer clothing always. Rain jacket useful year-round. Best weather January-March but wind constant. Museums and cafes provide weather escape. Earthquakes possible but rare.
Cultural Scene
Check event listings - always something on. Free concerts at Civic Square summer. Night markets various locations. Wellington on a Plate (August) huge food festival. Book shows early - intimate venues sell out.
Weekend vs Weekday
Government city quieter weekends - better hotel deals Friday-Sunday. Restaurants busier weekends. Te Papa less crowded weekdays. Markets weekends only. Adjust itinerary based on arrival day.
Customize Your Itinerary
Customize your Wellington experience based on interests, weather, and energy levels with these alternatives.
Film Buffs
- ✓ Add Weta Cave extended visit with workshop tour
- ✓ LOTR filming locations tour around Wellington
- ✓ Embassy Theatre for premieres and events
- ✓ Roxy Cinema for boutique movie experience
Additional cost: NZD 50-150 for specialized tours
Foodie Focus
- ✓ Wellington Food Tours guided experience
- ✓ Moore Wilson's fresh market exploration
- ✓ Chocolate factory tour at Wellington Chocolate
- ✓ Progressive dinner through different neighborhoods
Additional cost: NZD 80-200 for tours and tastings
Active Outdoors
- ✓ Mountain bike Makara Peak tracks
- ✓ Red Rocks seal colony coastal walk
- ✓ Kayaking Wellington Harbor
- ✓ South Coast walk to Island Bay
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
summer
Dec-Feb • Warm (18-25°C), still windy
Highlights:
• Beach swimming, outdoor events, festivals, longest days
Events:
• Summer City, outdoor concerts, night markets
fall
Mar-May • Mild (12-20°C), settled weather
Highlights:
• Best weather, fewer tourists, autumn colors, calm days
Events:
• Wellington Jazz Festival, CubaDupa
winter
Jun-Aug • Cool (8-15°C), wettest season
Highlights:
• Cozy cafes, winter beers, indoor culture, local vibe
Events:
• Wellington on a Plate, Matariki, LUX Light Festival
spring
Sep-Nov • Variable (10-18°C), improving
Highlights:
• Gardens blooming, wildlife active, increasing sunshine
Events:
• World of WearableArt, Wellington Marathon
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Days in Wellington
Yes - Wellington is the world's windiest city with average speeds of 27 km/h. The wind is strongest in spring but present year-round. Pack layers and a good windproof jacket. Hair ties essential. Most locals just embrace it as part of Wellington's character.
3 days covers major attractions comfortably. Add extra days for more museums, day trips to Wairarapa wine region, or Kapiti Coast. Weekend visitors should note government buildings closed but cultural attractions busier.
Mid-range for New Zealand - cheaper than Auckland/Queenstown but pricier than smaller cities. Many free attractions (Te Papa, Botanic Gardens) balance paid experiences. Eating out reflects capital city prices but excellent quality.
No - Wellington is New Zealand's most walkable city with good public transport. Everything central is within 20-minute walk. Buses serve outer suburbs. Only rent for Wairarapa wine tours or Kapiti Coast trips.
Coffee culture (flat white arguably invented here), film industry (LOTR, Weta Workshop), craft beer scene, Te Papa museum, government seat, arts/culture, and being incredibly windy but wonderfully creative.
Book 3-5 days ahead minimum, especially weekends and school holidays. Tours run regularly but small groups mean they sell out. Can sometimes get last-minute spots on weekdays. Don't risk it - book early.
Ready for Your Wellington Adventure?
Continue Planning Your Wellington Trip
Official Resources & Booking Sites
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About the Author
David Thompson
A digital nomad since 2015, David has road-tripped across every US state and explored the diverse landscapes of North America and Oceania. His background in tech and remote work makes him the go-to expert for digital nomad destinations. Based between Denver and Melbourne, he focuses on outdoor adventures and urban exploration with a laptop-friendly twist.