Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

7-Day Sydney to New Zealand Adventure

Wednesday, December 20: Arrival in Sydney

Morning: Arrive in Sydney and check-in at your hotel. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Sydney Opera House, a must-see landmark. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture.

Afternoon: Explore the Royal Botanic Garden, located near the Opera House. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautiful gardens and take in the stunning views of Sydney Harbour.

Evening: Head to Darling Harbour for dinner and entertainment. The vibrant precinct offers a variety of dining options and lively atmosphere.

  • Sydney Opera House: Cost: Free (Guided tours available at an additional cost), Time: 2-3 hours
  • Royal Botanic Garden: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Darling Harbour: Cost: Varies, Time: Evening
Thursday, December 21: Sydney City Exploration

Morning: Visit the historic Rocks district, known for its charming cobblestone streets and heritage buildings. Explore the local markets and unique shops.

Afternoon: Take a ferry to Manly Beach and enjoy some relaxing time by the ocean. Take a walk along the promenade or try out surfing.

Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife in Surry Hills, a trendy neighborhood filled with bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

  • The Rocks: Cost: Free, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Manly Beach Ferry: Cost: Approximately $15 round trip, Time: Half-day
  • Surry Hills: Cost: Varies, Time: Evening
Friday, December 22: Auckland Exploration

Morning: Fly to Auckland, New Zealand. Upon arrival, visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum, which showcases the country's history and culture.

Afternoon: Explore the charming Viaduct Harbour, lined with restaurants and yacht-filled marinas. Take a yacht or harbor cruise for panoramic views of the city.

Evening: Visit the Sky Tower for stunning views and indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the revolving restaurants.

  • Auckland War Memorial Museum: Cost: $25 per person, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Viaduct Harbour: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Sky Tower: Cost: $32 per person for observation deck, additional for dining, Time: Evening
Saturday, December 23: Rotorua Adventure

Morning: Travel to Rotorua, known for its geothermal wonders. Start with a visit to Te Puia, a Maori cultural center, and geothermal valley.

Afternoon: Experience the thrill of exploring the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, with its colorful hot springs and geothermal attractions.

Evening: Relax at the Polynesian Spa and soak in the healing mineral waters for a rejuvenating experience.

  • Te Puia: Cost: $54 per person, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: Cost: $32.50 per person, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Polynesian Spa: Cost: Varies, Time: Evening
Sunday, December 24: Queenstown Adventure

Morning: Fly to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Start your day with a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River.

Afternoon: Take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob's Peak for breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding Remarkables mountain range.

Evening: Explore the vibrant Queenstown Mall and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants offering local cuisine.

  • Jet boat ride: Cost: $129 per person, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Queenstown gondola: Cost: $44 per person, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Queenstown Mall: Cost: Varies, Time: Evening
Monday, December 25: Milford Sound Tour

Morning: Embark on a full-day tour to Milford Sound, renowned for its stunning fjords and waterfalls. Cruise through the majestic landscape and spot wildlife, including seals and dolphins.

Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of Milford Sound. Take a short hike to experience the area up close.

Evening: Return to Queenstown and relax in one of the lakeside restaurants for a memorable Christmas dinner.

  • Milford Sound Tour: Cost: $170-250 per person, Time: Full-day
Tuesday, December 26: Christchurch Exploration

Morning: Fly to Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand's South Island. Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst beautiful flora and fauna.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant street art scene in Christchurch's CBD. Admire the colorful murals and sculptures that have transformed the city's urban spaces.

Evening: Relax at one of the local gastropubs, known for their craft beers and delicious food.

  • Christchurch Botanic Gardens: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Street art exploration: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Gastropub: Cost: Varies, Time: Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Sydney, make sure to visit the lesser-known gem, Cockatoo Island. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning harbor views and a rich history as a former convict settlement and shipbuilding yard.

In New Zealand, don't miss the picturesque town of Arrowtown, just a short drive from Queenstown. This charming gold rush village is known for its historic buildings, boutique shops, and beautiful autumn foliage.

For nature lovers, a visit to Arthur's Pass National Park near Christchurch is a must. Explore the dramatic alpine landscapes, picturesque trails, and stunning waterfalls.

Click here to check hotel and flight prices.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version