Tucked between hills and the craggy shoreline on a wind-whipped peninsula, Wellington is an unusually small capital city. What it does have, though, is a brilliant big city buzz, a plethora of galleries, museums and eateries, and an appealingly walkable centre. With accommodation options ranging from self-catering apartments to swish hotels, our list of the best places to stay in Wellington caters to a whole host of tastes and budgets. We’ve even chosen a beautiful Palliser Bay lodge for couples, families or friends looking to escape together!

Museum-goers will find Wellington fascinating. The Wellington Museum recalls the city’s maritime and social history, whilst Te Papa — New Zealand’s National Museum — unpicks the country’s broader identity. Admire the New Zealand Parliament, ponder the Pukeahu National War Memorial and visit the City Gallery Wellington on Civic Square. For panoramic views, head to the Mount Victoria Lookout. Nature lovers will delight in the 25-hectare Botanical Gardens and the Zealandia eco-sanctuary. Play a round of golf at the Royal Wellington Golf Club, hike, cycle or horse ride in the surrounding countryside, or try your hand at sailing.

This buzzy little city is also known for its foodie and craft beer scene — you’ll find that big nights out balance out well with laid-back mornings at one of the best places to stay in Wellington.

The Best Places to Stay in Wellington

For City Style

• Ohtel is a small design-led hotel on Wellington's seafront promenade. With just 10 guestrooms, this is an intimate and stylish base for a harbour view stay in the city. Savour big brunches at the Ohtel Pantry before heading out to explore nearby museums. Pets are welcome in some rooms.
• Sofitel Wellington offers luxurious rooms and suites for well-heeled holidaymakers or business travellers. Set in the CBD, the hotel has a fantastic gym, hip restaurant and whimsical bar. A sleek city stay.
• QT Museum Hotel has a funky buzz, with glamorous arty interiors, two eateries and a bustling bar. Rooms and suites are more minimal, and some have impressive harbour views. With a swimming pool and gym, this is a top-notch city bolthole. Right opposite Te Papa Museum.
• Bolton Hotel is a brilliant business or leisure choice in the heart of Wellington's CBD. Expect swish rooms and suites, a swimming pool and delectable fare. Chef MacLean Fraser's gourmet dishes have made Artisan a foodie favourite. High teas and Sunday roasts are not to be missed.
• InterContinental Wellington has 236 stylish rooms and suites, just 200m from the coast. With the city's largest indoor swimming pool, a well-equipped gym, cocktail bar, restaurant and meeting facilities, it's a brilliant luxury choice. Great for business trips.

For a Country Escape

• Wharekauhau Country Estate is a fabulous lodge with cottages and a three-bedroom villa overlooking Palliser Bay. Brilliant for a country escape as a couple or with friends and family, the lodge promises exceptional interiors and heaps of activities -- including tennis, a spa, farm tours, hiking and cycling along 10 miles of Pacific coastline. Exquisite.

For Great Value

• U Residence offers 13 studios and apartments with well-equipped kitchens, dining areas and private terraces. A great value bolthole for a longer city stay within reach of bars and restaurants, just opposite Te Papa. For families, friends or solo travellers.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Wellington?

• Fly to Wellington Airport, just seven kilometres from the city centre. Alternatively, arrive by train with Rail New Zealand, or InterCity bus.
• The Wellington region is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the spring or summer (October to March) for slightly warmer weather, with temperatures peaking at around 17°C. Do remember that Wellington is known for its wind and rain.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Martinborough.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the North Island.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Wellington