Wellington

Wellington is a fantastic city with a vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and, of course, some delightful wine regions nearby. Let’s craft an exciting two-day itinerary that includes a scenic cycling wine tour while also allowing you to soak in the best of what the capital has to offer. Ready? Let’s go!

Day 1: Explore Wellington

Morning:

• Breakfast at Fidel’s Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this iconic café in Cuba Street. Try their famous eggs benedict or a delicious smoothie bowl to fuel up for the day ahead.

• Visit Te Papa Tongarewa: After breakfast, head to the national museum, Te Papa. It’s free and packed with fascinating exhibits about New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural environment. Don’t miss the colossal squid!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the Waterfront: Stroll along the waterfront and grab a bite at one of the many eateries. You could try the seafood at the Wellington Fish Market or a casual lunch at the Boatshed Café.

• Ride the Cable Car: After lunch, hop on the iconic Wellington Cable Car. It’s a short ride but offers stunning views of the city and harbor. Once you reach the top, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Botanic Garden.

• Explore the Botanic Garden: Spend some time wandering through the gardens, enjoying the lush landscapes and unique plant species. Don’t forget to check out the rose garden and the stunning views of the city from the lookout.

Evening:

• Dinner at Logan Brown: Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Logan Brown, known for its exquisite New Zealand cuisine. Make sure to book a reservation in advance!

• Nightcap at a Local Bar: After dinner, head to one of Wellington’s many bars. Check out the rooftop bar at the James Cabaret for a great view of the city at night.

Day 2: Scenic Cycling Wine Tour

Morning:

• Breakfast at your Accommodation or a Local Café: Fuel up for your cycling adventure! If you’re staying in the city center, you can grab a quick breakfast at a nearby café.

• Join a Scenic Cycling Wine Tour: Book a guided cycling wine tour that takes you out to the nearby Martinborough wine region (about an hour’s drive from Wellington). Many tours include bike rentals, so you can enjoy the beautiful countryside while tasting some of the best wines in the region.

Afternoon:

• Wine Tasting: Spend the afternoon cycling from vineyard to vineyard, sampling delicious wines and enjoying the picturesque landscapes. Don’t forget to try the local Pinot Noir! Many tours will also include a gourmet lunch at one of the wineries, so you can savor the local flavors.

Evening:

• Return to Wellington: After a delightful day of cycling and wine tasting, head back to Wellington.

• Casual Dinner at the Wellington Night Market: If you’re up for it, check out the Wellington Night Market (if it’s a Friday or Saturday). It’s a great place to sample a variety of street food from different cultures, and the atmosphere is lively and fun!

• Relax at a Local Pub: Wind down your trip with a drink at a local pub. The Malthouse is a great spot for craft beer lovers, with a wide selection of local brews.

And there you have it! A perfect two-day itinerary in Wellington that combines the best of the city with a scenic cycling wine tour. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🍷🚴‍♂️🌄