Top 20 Best Things to Do in Christchurch
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Top 20 Best Things to Do in Christchurch

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • International Antarctic Centretop_1
    30.28
    Christchurch8.7 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Christchurch
    Highlights:
    Experience Antarctic life on a snowmobile
    󱓊Five themed hotels for variety
    󱨠Saved by 217 users󱨠128 positive reviews
    4.5/5
  • Christchurch Botanic Gardenstop_2
    Christchurch1.1 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    Ralston Avenue Flowerbed and Garden Show
    󱨜Enjoy the fragrant beauty of the Rose Garden
    󱨠Saved by 144 users󱨠113 positive reviews
    4.6/5
  • Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)top_3
    16.8
    Christchurch691m from downtown
    Highlights:
    Punt along the Avon River
    󰀆A boatman explains the history and charm of Christchurch
    󱨠Saved by 103 users󱨠69% positive reviews
    4.8/5
  • Christchurch Tram
    4
    15.67
    Christchurch275m from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 1 of Night Attractions in Christchurch
    Highlights:
    Tour the streets of Christchurch on a vintage tram
    󰀆Listen to the streetcar driver tell stories about the city
    󱨠Saved by 144 users󱨠92% positive reviews
    4.7/5
  • Cardboard Cathedral
    5
    Christchurch551m from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Night Attractions in Christchurch
    Highlights:
    󱨜A unique landmark building constructed from cardboard
    󱨜A-shaped temporary church by Shigeru Ban
    󱨠46% positive reviews
    4.2/5
  • Hagley Park North
    6
    Christchurch1.4 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    Unlimited fun with boating and fishing on the lake
    󱨜Admire rare plants by Lake Victoria
    󱨠25% positive reviews
    4.7/5
  • Christchurch Gondola
    7
    17.3
    Christchurch8.2 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoUnique things to do in Christchurch, including cable car and penguin experiences
    Highlights:
    Take a cable car to watch sheep frolicking in the foothills.
    󱨜Get a close-up view of the collapsed crater's topography
    󱨠Saved by 129 users󱨠60% positive reviews
    4.5/5
  • The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora
    8
    Christchurch674m from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoThe Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, a floating magic house awaits your visit
    Highlights:
    Observe the creative process at an artist's workshop
    󱨜Admire the Gothic walls with their intricate stone carvings
    󱨠29% positive reviews
    4.1/5
  • Mona Vale Garden Park
    9
    Christchurch2.5 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰀆Summer concerts and sculpture exhibitions
    󱨜Stroll by a Victorian manor on the banks of the River Avon
    󱨠31% positive reviews
    4.4/5
  • Avon River / Ōtākaro
    10
    Christchurch3.2 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    Enjoy a tranquil punt ride on the Avon River
    Punt along the Avon River and enjoy the sights of Christchurch
    󱨠32% positive reviews
    4.4/5

Best things to do in Christchurch (2026)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Christchurch? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Christchurch offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Christchurch

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Christchurch experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

International Antarctic Centre

• Christchurch | 8.7 km from downtown

• : Experience Antarctic life on a snowmobile,Five themed hotels for variety

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

• Christchurch | 1.1 km from downtown

• : Ralston Avenue Flowerbed and Garden Show,Enjoy the fragrant beauty of the Rose Garden

Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)

• Christchurch | 691m from downtown

• : Punt along the Avon River,A boatman explains the history and charm of Christchurch

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Christchurch

If you want to explore attractions just outside Christchurch, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Christchurch, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Christchurch special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Christchurch

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Christchurch

Ready to explore the best of Christchurch? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What are the best things to do in Christchurch?
The best things to do in Christchurch include: International Antarctic Centre | Christchurch Botanic Gardens | Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds) | Christchurch Tram | Cardboard Cathedral. These activities offer a mix of cultural experiences, sightseeing, and entertainment suitable for all types of travelers.
How much do the top attractions in Christchurch cost?
International Antarctic Centre:From £30.28 | Christchurch Botanic Gardens:Free | Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds):From £16.80 | Christchurch Tram:From £15.67 | Cardboard Cathedral:Free
What amenities or facilities can I expect at top attractions in Christchurch?
Most attractions in Christchurch provide facilities such as visitor centers, guided tours, parking, rest areas, dining options, and accessibility features to ensure a comfortable experience.
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