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North Island in 2 Weeks: New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary 🚗⛰️ [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, how to make the most of travelling the north island in two weeks (14 days).

We’re sure you’ve heard that travelling New Zealand in two weeks isn’t nearly enough time to see everything. That’s true, but by just travelling one island like the North Island , you are heading in the right direction to really make the most of your time in New Zealand! Even so, seeing the awesome sights and activities on the North Island in two weeks does mean you will have an action-packed itinerary with your fair share of driving. If you’re up for that, then read on…

This two-week North Island travel itinerary below fits in most of the biggest highlights of the North Island, including spending time in volcanic regions, experiencing Maori culture, a mix of New Zealand wilderness and New Zealand city life and so much more! What’s more, the two-week itinerary allows you to choose from a lot of activities so you don’t need to worry about not finding things to do that you’ll totally dig! We’ll also give you a few tips on car rental and getting around the North Island, as well as how to plan this itinerary the EASY way with First Light Travel .

Other North Island Two-Week Itineraries

Before we jump into the good stuff, we thought you might like to be aware of our other North Island two-week itineraries to compare:

• North Island Budget & Backpacking Itinerary: Two Weeks / 14 Days
• North Island Family Itinerary: Two Weeks / 14 Days
• North Island Luxury Itinerary: Two Weeks / 14 Days
• North Island Honeymoon & Romance Itinerary: Two Weeks / 14 Days
• North Island Food Itinerary: Two Weeks / 14 Days .

North Island Two-Week (14-Day) Itinerary Overview

• Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Hahei
• Day 2 – Hahei to Rotorua
• Day 3 – Rotorua
• Day 4 – Rotorua to Taupo
• Day 5 – Taupo to Tongariro National Park
• Day 6 – Tongariro National Park to the Ruahine Forest Park
• Day 7 – Ruahine Forest Park
• Day 8 – Ruahine Forest Park to Wellington
• Day 9 – Wellington to Whanganui
• Day 10 – Whanganui to Stratford
• Day 11 – Stratford to Waitomo
• Day 12 – Waitomo
• Day 13 – Waitomo to Auckland
• Day 14 – Auckland

How to Get Around on this North Island 2-Week Itinerary

Travelling for two weeks on the North Island and looking for the perfect road trip itinerary? There are two main ways to get around the North Island using the recommended two-week North Island itinerary below: by car/campervan or by bus.

Renting a Car or Campervan for Two Weeks on the North Island

Renting a car or campervan is going to be the best way to squeeze everything you want into 14 days on the North Island. This means no waiting around for buses. Plus, you have the freedom to hit all the incredible North Island destinations listed below. As a bonus, the itinerary below loops the North Island so you can return your rental car where you started. That means no expensive one-way fees! We have more tips like that in our 21 Ways To Save Money on Car Rental in New Zealand .

For a complete comparison of car rental companies, check out The Best Car Rental Companies in Auckland and campervans in   The Best Campervan Rental Companies in Auckland . If you’re unsure about who and how to book, use free online travel agents like First Light Travel ; for on them at the bottom of this itinerary.

Bus Tours for Two Weeks on the North Island

For travellers who would rather let someone else do the driving, escorted bus tours are available to take you around the North Island with like-minded people. Tour companies that offer 12-14-day tours of the North Island, following an itinerary similar to the one featured below, are included in  The Best 10-12-Day Tours of the North Island . Find out more about New Zealand’s bus tours in  How to Travel by Bus in New Zealand .

Day 1 – Auckland Airport to Hahei

Drive time: 2h15mins.

You’ve arrived at Auckland Airport ! Once you have picked up your rental vehicle, jump straight into it and hit the road to Hahei in the Coromandel Peninsula ! Auckland Airport is south of the city, so save on drive time by heading south straight away and exploring the North Island. Don’t worry, you’ll see more of Auckland later. For the first day of your road trip, check out some of the stunning coastal scenery and beaches of the North Island.

Things to Do in Hahei

Depending on what time your flight comes in, you have the option to do one or both of the following in Hahei. These are pretty relaxing and accessible activities/sights to see for your first day in New Zealand:

• Cathedral Cove . Take the easy coastal walk to a beach with white cliffs and a giant archway. There are also options to visit the beach with activity operators by kayak (more info on Viator and KKday ) or boat (on Viator  and KKday )
• Hot Water Beach . Go to Hot Water Beach at low tide to dig yourself a hot pool in the sand.

If you fancy doing some other stuff, check out the   22 Best Things to Do in The Coromandel .

Accommodation in Hahei

Check out the top Coromandel accommodations in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in the Coromandel and   15 Best Hotels & Resorts in the Coromandel . Otherwise, here are our top picks in Hahei:

• Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Hahei Holiday Resort
• Anchor Lodge
• The Church Accommodation
• Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort
• Hahei Beach Apartment

Day 2 – Hahei to Rotorua

Drive time: 3 hours.

Your final destination today is Rotorua , famous for its geothermal and cultural experiences. Before you get there, don’t miss the Karangahake Gorge , halfway through the drive. There are a number of walking tracks in the area between 45 minutes to 4 hours going through a historic mining area taken back by the forest and the river. Walk through mining tunnels, through native forest, alongside mining relics and to magnificent waterfalls. Plus, Lord of the Rings nerds can stop by the Hobbiton Movie Set for a tour around The Shire.

Things to Do in Rotorua

If you have some time to kill this evening in Rotorua, here are a few suggestions.

• Relax in a natural geothermal hot pool. There are paid options, such as the  Polynesian Spa (more info on Klook and  KKday ) , or go find some of the 5 Free Natural Hot Pools in Rotorua
• See an evening cultural performance at one of the Maori attractions. We list most of the options in the 10 Places to Experience Maori Culture in New Zealand .

If they don’t take your fancy, check out the  25 Best Things to Do in Rotorua instead.

Accommodation in Rotorua

See our top recommendations in The 50 Best Accommodations in Rotorua . On the other hand, you’ll probably be happy with any one of these:

• Holdens Bay Holiday Park
• BKs Rotorua
• Rock Solid Backpackers
• Kings On Peace
• Silver Fern Rotorua
• Regal Palms Resort
• Ngamihi Lodge
• Regent of Rotorua
• Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel

Day 3 – Rotorua

Drive time: 0 hours.

There is so much to do in and around Rotorua that we recommend staying here the whole day. Have a rest from driving and do something awesome. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the Maori culture, see some wonderful geothermal parks, do an adrenaline activity or see some New Zealand wildlife, there’s something for every traveller in Rotorua!

• Visit a geothermal park . Geysers, steaming lakes, bubbling mud, silica terraces and so much more can be seen in one of the many geothermal parks of Rotorua
• Catch a Maori cultural performance (if you missed doing so yesterday)
• Do some adrenaline activities. Zorb your way in a giant hamster ball down a hill (more info on Viator  and Klook ) , go Luging from the top of the gondola, mountain bike in the Redwood Forest , jet boat or do a freefall experience at the Velocity Valley (on Viator  and Klook ) , and so much more!
• See native New Zealand wildlife at Wingspan or The National Kiwi Hatchery (on Viator and Klook ).

For more inspiration, get stuck into The Complete Guide to Rotorua or  21 Awesome Places to Visit in Rotorua .

Day 4 – Rotorua to Taupo

Drive time: 1 hour.

Not too far from Rotorua is Taupo on the edge of New Zealand’s largest lake! Again, there really is a lot to do here! If you want to skydive and/or bungy jump on the North Island then Taupo is a great place to do it. Plus, there are plenty of options to get out on the lake, relax in hot pools, see raging waterfalls and more!

Things to Do in Taupo

• Take a trip out on New Zealand’s largest lake, whether it’s fishing, kayaking, sailing, cruising or parasailing – see the  5 Ways to Experience Lake Taupo
• Bungy jump over the Waikato River
• Do a skydive over Lake Taupo
• Go on a  white water rafting trip on the Tongariro River with Rafting New Zealand/TRR
• Walk along the Waikato River to a natural hot pool at Spa Park , then onto Huka Falls .

… And that’s just the beginning! Check out the 16 Best Things to Do in Taupo for more ideas.

Accommodation in Taupo

Get all of our recommendations from the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Taupo  or just take a looksy here:

• Lake Taupo Holiday Resort
• Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort
• Millennium Hotel Lake Taupo
• Baycrest Lodge
• Hilton Lake Taupo

Day 5 – Taupo to Tongariro National Park

Drive time: 1h15mins.

Get up early and drive to the Tongariro National Park to do the Tongariro Crossing , New Zealand’s most popular day hike over the volcanic plateau with lots of geothermal sights. Otherwise, take your time getting to the Tongariro National Park and enjoy one of the shorter hikes in the area , still giving fantastic views of the Central North Island volcanoes. You also have the option of mountain biking or even skiing on the Whakapapa ski field in winter . For the Tongariro National Park, we recommend staying in either National Park Village or Whakapapa Village .

Things to Do in Tongariro National Park

• Tongariro Alpine Crossing . This is New Zealand’s most popular day hike taking you over the volcanoes of the central North Island. The 8-hour hike is one-way and requires some planning in terms of transport and keeping safe. Take a look at our Tongariro Crossing Accommodation and Transport: A Practical Guide to work out a plan
• Ski or snowboard at Whakapapa Ski Field in winter
• Choose from other hikes in Tongariro National Park by looking at the 13 Walks Around National Park Village & Whakapapa Village .

We have much more ideas in the  10 Tongariro National Park Must-Dos  if these aren’t your thing.

Accommodation in National Park Village

• Plateau Lodge
• Manowhenua Lodge
• National Park Backpackers
• The Park Hotel
• Pukenui Lodge
• Tongariro Crossing Lodge

Day 6 – Tongariro National Park to the Ruahine Forest Park

Drive time: 2 hours.

The mission today is to spend some time in the New Zealand wilderness. Ruahine Forest Park is an awesome place to do that and a locals’ favourite! There are a few different wilderness lodges and camping options in the Ruahine Forest Park, as well as activities from hikes to horse riding to white water rafting.

To break up the journey, stop in Ohakune for a coffee or check out the Mangawhero Walking Track to walk in the forests at the base of Mt Ruapehu. Your final destination today will be at one of the accommodation options listed below. You’ll get more time to explore the area or do an activity there tomorrow.

Accommodation in the Ruahine Forest Park

• River Valley Lodge
• Makoura Lodge
• Historic Shearers Quarters
• Mairenui Rural Retreat

Day 7 – Ruahine Forest Park

Drive time: 0 hours.

It’s time to relax/go wild in the Ruahine Forest Park ! Whatever your bag is, you could do some white water rafting or horse riding at River Valley , horse riding, 4x4ing or claybird shooting at Makoura Lodge , or hiking in the Ruahine Ranges. Alternatively, relax in your farmstay or accommodation to get a taste of Kiwi life.

Things to Do in the Ruahine Forest Park

• Go white water rafting on the Rangitikei River
• Horse trek through the stunning landscape with River Valley
• Hike one of many Ruahine tracks listed in the 25 Awesome Hikes Around Palmerston North .

Day 8 – Ruahine Forest Park to Wellington

Drive time: 3h20mins.

Your final destination today is the capital city of New Zealand! However, we recommend breaking up the drive by stopping along the Kapiti Coast , full of beaches and walks to check out! Walk over a sand dune walkway in Queen Elizabeth Park , relax on Peka Peka Beach . How about getting a kite landboarding or kite surfing lesson on Foxton Beach ?

Once you reach Wellington you have the evening to enjoy the eateries and nightlife of the capital city !

Accommodation in Wellington

See more stays in  The 50 Best Accommodations in Wellington or check out these quick links:

• The Marion Hostel
• The Dwellington
• Trek Global
• Willis Village
• U Boutique Hotel
• QT Wellington
• Bolton Hotel
• InterContinental Wellington
• Sofitel Wellington

Day 9 – Wellington to Whanganui

Drive time: 2h30mins.

Take some time this morning to explore the sights of Wellington, such as the Te Papa Museum , the Botanic Gardens or the Weta Workshop , before making the drive to Whanganui later this afternoon.

Things to Do in Wellington

• Visit the Te Papa Museum to learn everything there is to know about New Zealand
• Go to Zealandia to see native New Zealand wildlife
• Do a Lord of the Rings tour
• Tour the city sights of Wellington from the Waterfront to Cuba Street to the Botanic Gardens to Mt Victoria – find out more in our  One Day in Wellington: City Walking Tour Itinerary .

And there’s a lot more to do in Wellington, so wise up with our 25 Best Things to Do in Wellington .

Accommodation in Whanganui

Your final destination is the city of Whanganui, so find a place to stay using the 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Whanganui . Or you might like one of these:

• Whanganui River TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Whanganui Seaside Holiday Park
• Braemar House B&B and Hostel
• Aotea Motor Lodge
• 151 On London Motel & Conference Centre
• Rutland Arms Inn

Day 10 – Whanganui to Stratford

Drive time: 1h30mins.

On today’s drive, you’ll get to see the wild west coast of the Taranaki region as you make your way up to Stratford . Stratford is on the edge of the Egmont National Park with the impressive Mt Taranaki at its centre. Stratford gives good access to the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre and the Stratford Plateau on Mt Taranaki giving you a great deal of walking and hiking options through “enchanted forests” to waterfalls and volcano views!

Things to Do in Stratford

• See the town centre Glockenspiel that performs at 10am, 1pm, 3pm and 7pm
• Do the Wilkies Pools Loop Track  and Dawson Falls near the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre
• Do one of the 5 Walks You Have to do in Stratford .

Or check out the  10 Best Things to Do in Stratford for more inspiration.

Accommodation in Stratford

• Stratford Motel & Holiday Park
• Amity Court Motel
• Antonio Mews Motel
• Regan House

Day 11 – Stratford to Waitomo

Drive time: 3h16mins.

Now it’s time for an ironically unforgettable journey through the Forgotten World Highway . Fill up with fuel before delving into this historical and isolated part of the North Island. You will get breathtaking views of Mt Taranaki as you leave Stratford.

Stop by the Republic of Whangamomona and get your passport stamped. After that, you will go through old tunnels (or over them if you are too scared), as well as through the wild and wonderful Tangarakau Gorge. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way. You can find a few in our 10 Places You Can’t Miss on the Forgotten World Highway .

After a long drive to Waitomo , just relax in Waitomo in one of these affordable accommodations.

Accommodation in Waitomo

Do your full research on places to stay using the 10 BEST Hotels & Places to Stay in Waitomo . Otherwise, here are some quick recommendations:

• Juno Hall Backpackers
• Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park
• Waitomo Caves Guest Lodge
• Waitomo Boutique Lodge

Day 12 – Waitomo

Now you have the whole day to enjoy one or more of the epic glowworm and caving activities in Waitomo . Join one of the caving operators in Waitomo, throw on a sexy wetsuit and tube/abseil/climb your way through the Waitomo Caves – see the  8 Best Waitomo Cave Tours for a full comparison. There are a few walks in the area too if you are still feeling active.

Things to Do in Waitomo

• Explore the Waitomo Caves by one of the 6 Ways to Take on the Waitomo Caves
• Do a walking tour of the Ruakuri Cave (more info on  Viator  and  Klook )  or the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Do the free Ruakuri Bush Walk at night to see glowworms.

Or head to the  15 Free Things to Do in Waitomo for many more ideas.

Day 13 – Waitomo to Auckland

Take your time driving up to your final destination on this two-week itinerary of the North Island. There are a lot of quirky little towns to stop by on the way like Otorohanga with the best public toilets in New Zealand and the Ed Hillary Walkway in the centre of town.

You’ll then reach Auckland city where you can relax tonight at one of the harbour eateries or on top of the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, the Sky Tower . We’ll give you more ideas on what to do in Auckland tomorrow, but if you have time, you can fit in some activities this evening.

Accommodation in Auckland

See our top picks in The 50 Best Accommodations in Auckland . Otherwise, check these out:

• Attic Backpackers
• Verandahs Parkside Lodge
• Ponsonby Manor
• Empire Apartments
• Auckland City Hotel
• The Grand by SkyCity
• Ohtel Auckland
• Four Points by Sheraton Auckland

Day 14 – Auckland

Drive time: 0.

For your final day in New Zealand, why not have one last day of wild beauty by taking the ferry to one of the off-shore islands , like Rangitoto , Waiheke or Tiritiri Matangi ? Alternatively, this could be your last chance to do a skydive in New Zealand or jump from the Sky Tower . You can even cruise out into the harbour searching for whales and dolphins with a whale safari tour . Auckland really has a lot to offer! Then it’s time to return your rental car and head to the Auckland Airport for your next adventure.

Things to Do in Auckland

• Go to the Auckland Museum
• Walk up the volcanic island of Rangitoto Island
• Drink wine and be merry on Waiheke Island
• See protected wildlife on the Tiritiri Matangi Island
• Do a skydive with Skydive Auckland
• Jump off the Sky Tower with the SkyJump or walk around the top of it with the SkyWalk
• Go whale watching (more info on Viator or  Klook )
• Walk to Mt Eden for some city views.

Finally, if you’re rather do something else, then you might like what we have in the  16 Best Things to Do in Auckland .

Plan This Itinerary with First Light Travel

If you like this two-week North Island itinerary but don’t like the hassle of planning everything yourself, then there’s a way to lighten the load. First Light Travel is an online travel agent specialising in self-drive itineraries in New Zealand at no extra cost to you. Plus, using their service is super simple:

• First, send First Light Travel an enquiry by completing their online form
• Then, you’ll receive your customised self-drive itinerary
• Review your itinerary and work with your First Light Travel agent on perfecting it
• Finally, First Light Travel will organise the rest including the bookings.

First Light Travel has access to more than 20,000 travel products, including almost all the tours and accommodations featured on this list (and more). With that and their local expertise here in New Zealand, they will create a well-catered itinerary to meet your needs while also suggesting some dream travel experiences that you may have never heard of. They only work with companies where their past clients have had positive experiences, so you know you’re in good hands.

What’s more, all of the bookings are arranged by First Light Travel, so instead of having to contact each individual accommodation and operator should your travel plans change, any amendments can be done through your FLT agent – easy! Did we mention the service is at no extra cost to you?!

For more information on planning your own New Zealand itinerary, see  How to Create the Perfect New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary . Or better yet, jump on firstlighttravel.com and start making your own itinerary there.

More About Planning a Two-Week Trip to the North Island

That’s it for our North Island 2-week itinerary but by no means the end of our road trip advice. Check out the following guides if you simply can’t get enough of our NZ tips:

• The Best Time to Visit New Zealand
• 10 Ways to Relax on a Road Trip
• 51 Best Things to Do on the North Island

Finally, be sure to bookmark the  31 Tips for Travelling in New Zealand and  The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand – they’re pretty darn useful.

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Following the Pacific Coast Highway , Thermal Explorer Highway and Volcanic Loop takes you everywhere you want to go. All routes are well signposted (every 14 kilometers) and there are plenty of short detours to be had along the way

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Plan unforgettable road trips!

New Zealand North Island itinerary – 4 options (7, 10 days, 2 weeks)

Last updated on December 11, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Planning your New Zealand North Island itinerary can be daunting. There is so much to see and do: volcanoes, geothermal parks, beaches… But don’t worry, wherever you go, it will be beautiful. Below are my suggested North island itineraries for 7 days, 10 days, 2 weeks or 3 weeks. Have a wonderful New Zealand road trip!

Tips to plan your North Island New Zealand itinerary

Before I share with you my suggested itineraries for your New Zealand North Island road trip, below are a few tips for a better understanding of opportunities and constraints.

TIP1 – Driving times & New Zealand North Island Map Tourism

Let’s start with a simple map of North Island, with the most famous highlights to consider adding to your road plan:

Always plan more time to go from point A to point B than what Google says. I can assure you that on any  New Zealand road trip  you will want to stop all the time to admire the scenery. And New Zealand is much bigger that one imagines. It seems so small compared to Australia that we think we can easily visit the whole country, but it takes quite a long time. Also the roads in North Island are very sinuous, so you don’t drive fast. You can check out my NZ driving guid e.

On the map above you can see many driving times and Auckland to Wellington = 8h drive

TIP 2 – Daylight

Check out sunrise and sunset times, to see how much daylight you have available when you are traveling. This way you will know how long you have to see all the sites during the days. This is important to define the best time to travel around New Zealand .

TIP 3 – Optimize your New Zealand itinerary with tide times and sunrise, sunsets…

There are places in New Zealand that you can only visit a low tide. They are mostly in South Island, but you have a few in North Island such as Piha beach, so that you can walk between the mainland and Taitomo Island or Cathedral Cove. So, if those are must-see for you, make sure you start by planning those first.

Same for sunset and sunrise, there are some great locations for that, and you should book a night there: Piha beach for sunset, Gisborne or Castlepoint for sunrise, Mt Taranaki for both.

TIP 4 – Plan some flexibility

If some locations are really big ticket items for you, I recommend planning a night close by so you can have double the chance to see it under nice weather. For example on my first day in Taranaki, the summit was covered in clouds, but the next morning it was all clear and I could see how magnificent the volcanic cone is.

TIP 5 – You can’t drive everywhere

What I mean is that although some locations seem close by, you sometimes need to do a big detour to travel between 2 places. For example driving from Taranaki to Tongariro is a really a pain. So be sure to check driving times and roads to avoid planning too much in a day.

TIP 6 – Use domestic flights

The driving times being so long, an option to be able to cover more is to start in Auckland and finish in Wellington. Then you take a domestic flight back or fly through by Australia. Just note that rental car price may go up because of it.

Need to rent a car in New Zealand ?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Prefer a car with enough power for the mountain areas
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

TIP 7 – Tool to plan your itinerary with practical maps

I have just noted the really big highlights on the map above. But there are many other fascinating stops along the way. You can find my complete planning maps with my selection of the best stops for each region in my eBooks. Each stop includes GPS coordinates and practical information to make the most of your time:

Plan your dream trip to New Zealand with my guides!

• 12 easy-to-plan maps
• 200+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates 
• Useful planning tips
• 285+ large photos 

• 6 easy-to-plan maps
• 90+ pre-selected locations
• 150+ large photos 

Or jump to the itinerary you want

North 7 days: Beach & Coast

North 7 days: Volcanic Wonders

North 10 days: Highlights

Note: For all accommodations listed below, I selected them myself and paid entirely (no ads).

North Island  New Zealand Itinerary 7 days – Beaches & Coastal gems

STARTS IN – Auckland ENDS IN – Auckland

On this itinerary, you are staying North of Auckland, in the Northland to discover some of the most famous coastal areas in New Zealand

Day 1 – North Beaches & Coastal Gems – Matapouri

• Starts in – ​ Auckland
• Ends in – Matapouri
• Driving time – 2h30 / 3h15 (if return to Whangarei)
• Driving difficulty – Main road + Smaller sinuous roads as you approach the coastal areas
• Main stops to consider – STOP 1 – Whangarei falls – this is an easy stop along the road. The 26m high waterfall is surrounded by native bush. The walkway takes you to 3 top platforms and to the bottom – 30min loop STOP 2 – Matapouri Bay & Whale Bay, next I recommend the detour to Matapouri bay. I think this beautiful shaped cove is stunning. At low tide you can complete a walking loop that also takes you to Whale Bay (1h loop)
• Where to stay – Matapouri / Tutuka – ​ Check out options Or back to Whangarei for more choice of accommodations (+45min drive) – Check out options

Day 2 – North Beaches & Coastal Gems – Bay of Islands

• Starts in –  Matapouri or Whangarei
• Ends in – Paihia
• Driving time – 1 to 2h (depending on departure)
• Driving difficulty – Main road easy, sinuous is choosing the coastal road
• Main stops to consider – Drive straight up to Piahia, the getaway to the Bay of Islands. What to enjoy in Paihia: STOP1 – Paihia beach and city center – this is one of my favorite towns in New Zealand. It has a really good vibe, nice restaurants and a charming waterfront. STOP 2 –  Waitangi Treaty ground – if you are interested in the Maori culture and history, visit the museum and watch the performance – Get your entry pass STOP 3 – Haruru falls – Those are not the most impressive, but it is an easy short stop STOP 4 –  Cruise – The most famous activity in the Bay of Islands is to take a cruise to see the many islands and the Hole in the rock – Book your seats
• Great activities – Other experiences to enjoy in Paihia include: Kayaking to the bottom of the Haruru falls Helicopter Tour of the Bay of Islands to the Hole in the rock with a possible landing on top of it! – Check out details and book Or check out the many activities in Paihia
• Where to stay – Paihia is a great place to spend the night. There is a large choice of accommodations – Check out the best rated options I stayed at the Admirals View lodge which was nice – Check out photos and availabilities

Day 3 –  North Beaches & Coastal Gems – Doubtless bay

• Starts in –  Paihia
• Ends in – Mangonui or Karikari peninsula
• Driving time – Between 1h30 and 3h
• Driving difficulty – Generally easy roads – you can find bumpy gravel roads if you head to some destinations on the Karikari peninsula
• Main stops to consider – STOP1 – Rainbow falls – This is an easy stop at the beginning of the day. The 30min loop takes you to the top and the bottom of the 27m waterfall STOP2 – Taupo Bay – a detour from the main road takes you to this quiet bay on the West Coast. If you want more time to explore Karikari you can skip this detour. STOP3 – Doubtless bay – Drive along doubtless bay. It has several beautiful beaches. And you can also enjoy the quaint little town of Mangonui. There you can go to Rangikapiti Pa, a Maori site with a fantastic view of the harbour STOP4 – and if you are not tired you can go off the touristic path to explore the beautiful Karikari peninsula. This is quite a detour, but the beaches are stunning.
• Where to stay – There are a few accommodations in Mangonui – check out options or you can find a place to stay on the Karikari peninsula – check out options

Day 4 –  North Beaches & Coastal Gems – Cape Reinga

• Starts in –  Mangonui
• Ends in – Kaitaia
• Driving time – 3h20
• Driving difficulty – The roads are easy with one lane in each direction. However, side roads to forested places or to the dunes, are not paved.
• Main stops to consider – Today you are heading to the most Northern region of New Zealand. It is quite narrow, so you can do some stops on the way North and others on the way South. Some of the most famous stops are: STOP 1 – 90-mile beach – this is one of the most famous beaches in New Zealand. Visually it is not much but at low tide it becomes a highway. 4WD go on it to drive. However, if you plan on doing this yourself, be careful, tidal waves can be dangerous STOP 2 – Cape Reinga – at the most northern point you can enjoy a walk to the lighthouse. It offers splendid views and explanations about the Maori cultural elements. STOP 3 – Te Paki Sand dunes – This requires driving on a gravel road for 3,5km but it is worth it! Even if you don’t climb on the dunes, you can stop at the carpark and admire them and the contrast with the green bush.
• Great activities – If you don’t want to drive yourself on the 90-mile beach or to the dunes, but you still want to experience them. You can book a day trip from Paihia – Check out program and book
• Where to stay – Anywhere between cape Reinga and Kaitaia – Check out options in Kaitaia – and use the map, zoom out to see other options

Day 5 –  North Beaches & Coastal Gems – Hokianga

• Starts in –  Kaitaia
• Ends in – Opononi
• Driving time – 2h 
• Driving difficulty – Be careful, Google maps will take you via the ferry. I recommend taking the detour so as not to not be blocked by ferry times (it is not that much longer to drive)
• Main stops to consider – The harbor is stunning with mountains, rock formations and sand dunes on the opposite side. STOP 1 – Relax in the charming town of Opononi STOP 2 – Check out the old Omapere wharf, it is very photogenic STOP 3 – walk around Signal station for beautiful views of the harbor mouth and the sand dunes on the other side
• Great activities – You can take a boat tour from Oponui to see the other shore and go sand boarding if you want There is also a twilight tour of the forest with the old Kauri trees
• Where to stay – Stay in Opononi or nearby – Check out options

Day 6 –  North Beaches & Coastal Gems – Mangawhai

• Starts in –  Opononi
• Ends in – Mangawhai
• Driving time – 2h30
• Driving difficulty – Drive back towards the East Coast. The last section of the road is quite sinuous but not difficult.
• Main stops to consider – STOP 1 – At the beginning of the day, enjoy the ancien forest. Go and see Tane Mahuta, the famous giant Kauri tree. STOP 2 – Then drive to the east coast to reach Mangawhai heads. Plan a walk on the beach (or longer with the cliff walk) at low tide.
• Where to stay – Mangawhai and Mangawhai heads are a great places to stay with a laid back atmosphere – Check out the accommodation options I stayed at the Mangawhai Chalets and love the beach decor. Beautiful room. Check out photos and availability

Day 7 –  North Beaches & Coastal Gems Day – Piha

• Starts in –  Mangawhai
• Ends in – Piha (or Auckland airport)
• Driving time – 2h40
• Driving difficulty – Fast road until you reach the Auckland traffic jam and the narrow sinuous road down to Piha
• Main stops to consider – Today you drive down to the West of Auckland. This is a black sand beach paradise surrounded by bush and forest. STOP 1 – Muriwai cliffs – unless you can’t stand the smell check out Muriwai with stunning cliffs and a gannet colony STOP 2 – Then head to Bethells beach and walk to the black sand dune STOP 3 – Finish the day in Piha beach. Try to be there for low tide and sunset if possible. Climb to the view point and walk in the canyon formed by Taitomo island.
• Where to stay – Check out the accommodations in Piha (mostly rentals) I stayed at the Piha beach stay. Not by the beach but I had a stunning room with a terrace looking at the forested hills – Check out photos and availability

Make it a New Zealand itinerary North island 10 days

If you have 10 days in North Island New Zealand, you can consider the following for your extra 3 days:

• Spend some time in Aukland
• Or drive down to Rotorua for some geothermal wonderlands – my favorite option
• Or if you want more beach time you can head to the surf town of Raglan and add a detour South to the Waitomo glowworm caves
• Or head to the Coromandel peninsula with Hot water beach and Cathedral cove

New Zealand  North Island  Itinerary 1 week – Volcanic Wonders 

On this itinerary, we head South of Auckland to discover the geothermal and volcanic wonderlands of the North Island. My favorite short itinerary.

Day 1 – North Volcanic Wonders Gems – Blue Spring & Rotorua

• Starts in –  Auckland
• Ends in – Rotorua
• Driving time – 3h
• Driving difficulty -Easy drive
• Main stops to consider – STOP 1  – Hobbiton or Blue Spring – I think the Blue Spring is a wonderful place and should not be missed, but I know some are really big fans of Lord of the Ring, so your first stop can be one or the other. STOP 2  – Pick one of the activities – I think to avoid driving more you should visit Te Puia and its Geyser or Whakarewarewa or both – check out my guide on the best geothermal parks
• Great activities – You can enjoy a scenic flight above the region to see the fault line and many lakes – for example: Book an helicopter tour with the fault line or you can relax at a geothermal spa- The Polynesian Spa is right by the lake: mineral hot pools, cold plunge pools, heated recliners… – pre-book your experience
• Where to stay (book for 2 nights) There is a large choice of accommodations in Rotorua from B&Bs to luxury stays – Check out the best rated options and book I stayed in a room at a B&B (Rotorua City Homestay). They were very welcoming and I enjoyed the breakfast a lot – Check out more photos and availabilities

Day 2 –  North Volcanic Wonders Gems – Rotorua

• Starts in –  Rotorua
• Driving time – No too much driving, depending on what you want to see
• Driving difficulty – Easy to get around Rotorua
• Main stops to consider – STOP 1 – Wai-o-Tapu – in the morning I recommend to most famous valley with the Champagne pool and features with crazy colors. Don’t miss the Lady Knox geyser at 10:15 am. See my article  or  Pre-purchase your entrance ticket in your currency here   STOP 2 – I also recommend the Waimangu valley – it is a walk along several geothermal features to a lake – you can complete different walking tracks and buses take you back. Don’t start too late!  Pre-purchase your entrance ticket in your currency here STOP other – if you want to see only one geothermal valley today, you can also head to the Redwood forest for a peaceful walk or to the Hamurana spring.
• Great activities – There are lots of great activities in Rotorua, I listed the spa and the flight previously. Check out the many other options
• Where to stay – Same as the night before

Day 3 –  North Volcanic Wonders Gems – Taupo

• Ends in –   Taupo or Whakapapa
• Driving time – 1h30 or 2h30
• Driving difficulty – easy drive
• Main stops to consider – STOP 1 – Orakei Karako is my favorite geothermal park in the region of Rotorua -Taupo. It is a small detour from the main road, but what an incredible place. The main terrace has many colors and is surrounded by forest and lake. Breathtaking. pre-purchase your entrance ticket in your currency here STOP 2 – Craters of the moon, close to Taupo is something completely different from the other parks. The 1h walking loop is quite fascinating and worth a stop in my opinion even if it is not as colorful STOP 3 – Huka falls – a powerful rush of water as the river enters a shallow ravine after being 100m wide
• Great activities – Other activities around Lake Taupo include A jet boat experience around the Huka falls – adrenaline rush guaranteed! – Check out details and book For a quieter water experience, discover Lake Taupo and its Maori rock carvings on a small cruise – Check out details and book
• Where to stay – You can either stay in Taupo to be in a large town with a lake – Check out the best rated options and book or you can already head to Whakapapa in Tongariro National Park if you want to enjoy a lot of hiking – Check out the options and book I stayed at Sails on the Lake in an apartment with Lake view and all the equipments I needed –  Check out more photos and availabilities

Day 4 –  North Volcanic Wonders Gems – Tongariro

• Starts in –  Taupo or Whakapapa
• Ends in – Whakapapa or Whanganui
• Driving time – Hiking or 1h around driving or more
• Driving difficulty – Easy
• Main stops to consider – Several options for today. If you are in great shape you can do the famous Tongariro Alpine crossing that takes all day If you enjoy walking but don’t feel like doing it for 10h, you can choose one of the smaller hikes, for example the Taranaki falls 2h loop And if you can’t do a long walk you can still enjoy the roads all around the National park as they offer splendid views. And you can drive up to the ski fields for breathtaking views of the lava flow. If you are not hiking, you can already save driving time on the next day, and head to Wanganui to spend the night
• Great activities – In the region, you can also enjoy intense rafting on the Tongariro river – More info
• Where to stay – If you are hiking all day, stay in Whakapapa in Tongariro National Park if you want to enjoy a lot of hiking – Check out the options and book Or stay in Whanganui on your way to Taranaki – Check out the options and book

Day 5 –  North Volcanic Wonders Gems – Taranaki

• Starts in –  Whakapapa or Wanganui
• Ends in – New Plymouth
• Driving time – 3h or 5h
• Main stops to consider – There are many viewpoints around Mt Taranaki. When it is not in the clouds, it is magnificent Consider: North Egmont visitor center, the Dawson falls area, Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, Lake Mangamahoe, the black sand beaches… There are many walks possible
• Where to stay – New Plymouth has a wide range of accommodations – check out the best rated options I stayed at the Ratanui Villas. Really nice of off the hustle of the town – Check out photos and availability

Day 6 –  North Volcanic Wonders Gems – Waitomo caves

• Starts in –  New Plymouth
• Ends in – Waitomo
• Driving difficulty – OK
• Main stops to consider – If you love volcanic wonders, I am assuming you love caves as well. Waitomo has been made famous for its glowworms, but the caves themselves are worth the visit. I would skip the most touristic cave and rather visit Anuari and Ruakuri for the features. (you can see glowworms in Ruakuri). But there are also other privately-owned caves in the area I also recommend a short drive east to see the impressive Mangapohue Natural bridge and the Marokopa falls
• Where to stay – You can stay in Waitomo or start driving North and stop at Hamilton. If you you are staying in Waitomo, book early as there are limited accommodations – Check out options I stayed at the Waitomo caves guest lodge which was really practical – Check out photos and availability or see the best rated options in Hamilton

Day 7 –  North Volcanic Wonders Gems – Black sand beaches

• Starts in –  Waitomo
• Driving difficulty – Easy drive until you reach the Auckland traffic jam and the narrow sinuous road down to Piha
• Main stops to consider – Today you drive up to the West of Auckland. This is a black sand beach paradise surrounded by bush and forest. STOP 1 – Muriwai cliffs – unless you can’t stand the smell check out Muriwai with stunning cliffs and a gannet colony STOP 2 – Then head to Bethells beach and walk to the black sand dune STOP 3 – Finish the day in Piha beach. Try to be there for low tide and sunset if possible. Climb to the view point and walk in the canyon formed by Taitomo island.
• Where to stay – Check out the accommodations in Piha  (mostly rentals) I stayed at the Piha beach stay. Not by the beach but I had a stunning room with a terrace looking at the forested hills –  Check out photos and availability
• Spend some time in Aukland, you can go to the top of the Mt Eden volcano
• Or head to the Coromandel peninsula with Hot water beach and Cathedral cove and then to the East coast to access white island
• Or spend more time hiking in Taranaki or Tongariro

All the stops listed in these itineraries are included in my eBooks with practical info to make the most of your time

New Zealand 10 day itinerary North Island  – Highlights 

New zealand north island 10 day itinerary – highlights   day 1 – coromandel peninsula.

• Ends in – Hot water beach or Hahei
• Main stops to consider – Drive all the way to the Coromandel peninsula STOP 1 – Cathedral cove , the famous walk must be completed at low tide. It offers beautiful sea cliffs and access to a giant archway and sea stacks STOP 2 – Hot water beach – go dig yourself a hole and soak in hot water
• Where to stay – Depending on your timing with the tide, you can either stay at Hot water beach ( see options ) or in Hahei ( see options )

10 days in North Island highlights   Day 2 – Rotorua

• Starts in –  Coromandel peninsula
• Driving difficulty – easy
• Main stops to consider – STOP 1  – Hobbiton or Blue Spring – I think the Blue Spring is a wonderful place and should not be missed, but I know some are really big fans of Lord of the Rings, so your first stop can be one or the other. STOP 2 – Pick one of the parks – This afternoon I would pick Te Puia with the geyser or the Waimangu volcanic Valley
• Great activities – You can enjoy a scenic flight above the region to see the fault lines and many lakes – for example: Book an helicopter tour with the fault line or you can relax at a geothermal spa at the end of the day- The Polynesian Spa is right by the lake: mineral hot pools, cold plunge pools, heated recliners… – pre-book your experience There are lots of great activities in Rotorua, I listed the spa and the flight previously – Check out the many other options
• Where to stay – There is a large choice of accommodations in Rotorua from B&Bs to luxury stays –  Check out the best rated options and book I stayed in a room at a B&B (Rotorua City Homestay). They were very welcoming and I enjoyed the breakfast a lot –  Check out more photos and availabilities

North Island highlights ​   Day 3 – Geothermal wonders

• Ends in – Taupo
• Driving time – 1h30
• Main stops to consider – STOP 1 – Wai-o-Tapu – in the morning I recommend to most famous valley with the Champagne pool and features with crazy colors. Don’t miss the Lady Knox geyser at 10:15 am. See my article  or  Pre-purchase your entrance ticket in your currency here STOP 2 – Orakei Karako is my favorite geothermal park in the region of Rotorua -Taupo. It is a small detour from the main road, but what an incredible place. The main terrace has many colors and is surrounded by forest and the lake. Breathtaking. pre-purchase your entrance ticket in your currency here STOP 3 – Craters of the moon, close to the Taupo is something completely different from the other parks. The 1h walking loop is quite fascinating and worth a stop in my opinion even if it is not as colorful STOP 4 – Huka falls – a powerful rush of water as the river enters a shallow ravine after being 100m wide
• Where to stay – Book in Taupo for 2 nights You can stay in Taupo to be in a “large” town with a lake – Check out the best rated options and book I stayed at Sails on the Lake in an apartment with Lake view and all the equipments I needed –  Check out more photos and availabilities

North Island highlights ​   Day 4 – Tongariro

• Starts in –  Taupo
• Driving time – 2h or more
• Main stops to consider – Today, head to the Tongariro National Park. There is a large choice of hikes from 30min to a complete day (such as the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing) You can also drive around for wonderful landscapes and drive up to the ski fields for a closer look at the dried lava flow.
• Where to stay – same as night before

North Island highlights ​   Day 5 – 

• Main stops to consider – Waitomo is famous because of its glowworms, but the caves themselves are worth the visit. I would skip the most touristic cave and rather visit Anuari and Ruakuri for the features (you can see glowworms in Ruakuri). But there are also other privately owned caves in the area. I also recommend a short drive east to see the impressive Mangapohue Natural bridge and the Marokopa falls
• Where to stay – If you are staying in Waitomo, book early as there are limited accommodations – Check out options I stayed at the Waitomo caves guest lodge which was really practical –  Check out photos and availability or  see the best rated options in Hamilton , a little more up North (large town, no points of interest)

North Island highlights ​   Day 6 – Black sand beaches

• Ends in – Piha
• Driving difficulty – Easy drive until you reach the Auckland traffic jams and the narrow sinuous road down to Piha
• Main stops to consider – The area West of Auckland is a black sand beach paradise surrounded by bush and forest. STOP 1 – Muriwai cliffs – unless you can’t stand the smell check out Muriwai with stunning cliffs and a gannet colony STOP 2 – Then head to Bethells beach and walk to the black sand dune STOP 3 – Finish the day in Piha beach. Try to be there for low tide and sunset if possible. Climb to the view point and walk in the canyon formed by Taitomo island.

North Island highlights   Day 7 – Bay of Islands

• Starts in – Piha
• Driving time – 3h30
• Main stops to consider – I would spend the morning driving to the Bay of Islands, to enjoy a cruise in the afternoon –  Book your seat Or if you like history, you can visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds
• Great activities – Or check out the many activities in Paihia
• Where to stay – Paihia is a great place to spend the night. There is a large choice of accommodations – Check out the best rated options I stayed at the Admirals View lodge which was nice –  Check out photos and availabilities

North Island highlights   Day 8 – 

• Driving time – 5h (a bit long but if you want to see those famous places, this is what it takes) – however if you don’t want to drive that much and want to be able to see 90-mile beach via 4WD, book a day trip from Paihia and stay a second night in Paihia – Check out program and book
• Driving difficulty – Easy except some gravel road 
• Main stops to consider – STOP 1 – 90-mile beach – this is one of the most famous beaches in New Zealand. Visually it is not much but at low tide it becomes a highway. 4WD go on it to drive. However, if you plan on doing this yourself, be careful, tidal waves can be dangerous STOP 2 – Cape Reinga – at the most northern point you can enjoy a walk to the lighthouse. It offers splendid views and explanations about the Maori cultural elements. STOP 3 – Te Paki Sand dunes – This requires driving on gravel road for 3,5km but it is worth it! Even if you don’t climb on the dunes, you can stop at the carpark and admire them and the contrast with the green bush.
• Where to stay – Anywhere between cape Reinga and Kaitaia –  Check out options in Kaitaia – and use the map, zoom out to see other options

North Island highlights   Day 9 – Drive South

• Driving difficulty – Easy mostly, sinuous at the end
• Main stops to consider – ​STOP 1 – Whangarei falls – this is an easy stop along the road. The 26m high waterfall is surrounded by native bush. The walkway takes you to 3 top platforms and to the bottom – 30min loop STOP 2 – Then drive to the east coast to reach Mangawhai heads. Plan a walk on the beach (or longer with the cliff walk) at low tide.
• Where to stay – Mangawhai and Mangawhai heads are great places to stay with a laid back atmosphere – Check out the accommodation options I stayed at the Mangawhai Chalets and love the beach decor. Beautiful room.  Check out photos and availability

North Island highlights   Day 10 – Auckland

• Ends in – Auckland
• Main stops to consider – Explore Auckland – Climb on Mt Eden, get up the Sky Tower or book a cruise to see the beautiful skyline from the water
• Great activities – See Auckland activities
• Where to stay – Check out the best rated accommodations in Auckland

I don’t drink coffee

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New Zealand  North Island  Itinerary 2 weeks and 3 weeks

Lucky to have more time?

New Zealand North island Itinerary 2 weeks

Combine both 1 week itinerary, with Coromandel to replace the double Black sand dune day 

• Day 1 –  Auckland to Matapouri
• Day 2 – Bay of Islands
• Day 3 – Doubtless Bay
• Day 4 – Cape Reinga
• Day 5 – Hokianga
• Day 6 – Mangawhai
• Day 7 – Black Sand beaches (Piha and others)
• Day 8 – Coromandel peninsula
• Day 9 – Blue Spring/Hobbiton and Rotorua
• Day 10 – Rotorua geothermal parks
• Day 11 – Taupo geothermal parks
• Day 12 – Tongariro
• Day 13 – Taranaki
• Day 14 – Waitomo

New Zealand North island Itinerary 3 weeks

To make the plan above a 3 week itinerary, head South to Wellington between Tongario and Taranaki with a detour to Castlepoint and Cape Palliser. And add some time in Auckland.

Both islands – New Zealand road trip Itinerary 2 weeks

If you are looking for a 2-week NZ itinerary that covers both islands, check out this article

Make your own NZ itinerary for 2 weeks or 3 weeks or more!

But if you have more than 2 weeks or if you want to create your own itinerary from a curated list – I have written my eBooks to help you do that:

And check out my guide about the best places to stay in New Zealand

Itinerary in North Island for Winter

North island does not have too many limitations in Winter. There is snow on the summits, but most roads remain easy to drive. The only constraint is that you will have shorter days to explore, so you should not plan more than 2h30 drive each day. 

Is my New Zealand road trip itinerary good?

You can share your itinerary on online forums, but you will get a lot of different opinions and probably people adding locations because you just ‘have to see this!’. Not so helpful…

Check the following points and you should be ready to go:

• Have I planned less than 4h30 driving per day in Summer and 3h in Winter? and are most days under 3h30 in Summer and 2h30 in Winter?
• Am I clear on the Top 10 locations I don’t want to miss and flexible about the others? (depending on weather conditions)
• Are there available accommodations that fit my itinerary? (If you are late with the planning, the lack of accommodations may influence your itinerary)
• Are you excited and stressed by the itinerary? This might be an indication you have to remove locations…

And then you are ready to go! I wish you a wonderful New Zealand trip!

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New Zealand North Island Itinerary: 2-Week Road Trip

If you’re planning to visit New Zealand’s North Island, you’re in for an amazing experience. There are so many unique and memorable things to do in the North Island.

If you only have a couple of weeks (or less), it can feel like a daunting task choosing what to see and what to skip. That’s where I come in! I’ve lived in New Zealand for two decades and have done multiple trips around the North Island over the years.

This 2-week New Zealand North Island itinerary is based on all the best spots from our own experiences! From amazing beaches, water activities and boat tours to glowing insects, geothermal wonders, world-class hikes and the country’s finest wine regions.

It includes all the best things to see and do, where to eat and places to stay for each location, plus the optimal route to take so you can make the most of your time.

Ready to plan the trip of your dreams? Let’s dive in!

» Read Next: Packing List for New Zealand: What to Wear & Pack

Table of Contents

North Island Itinerary Overview 

This North Island itinerary will take you from Auckland to the Far North and then south to Wellington.

For those arriving at Wellington International Airport or starting with our New Zealand South Island itinerary and taking the ferry from Picton, you can follow this itinerary in reverse starting in Wellington.  

You’ll need a vehicle for this itinerary, and it doesn’t matter whether you rent a car or campervan. I’ve included where to stay for both options. Campermate and DOC are good resources for freedom camping sites.

Who is this itinerary for?

This itinerary is for people who are planning to drive around the North Island and want to see a mixture of New Zealand’s top attractions and authentic experiences out in nature.

You’ll be driving each day and will need to be familiar with New Zealand’s road rules and comfortable navigating the sometimes narrow and winding roads.

This itinerary covers a lot of ground, so it’s best suited for the summer months (November to April) when daylight hours are longer and those who don’t mind starting the day early.

How many days do I need on the North Island?

You can have a great trip with any amount of travel time, but you’ll need to be selective about how you spend your time. Two weeks is a good amount of time to see a lot of what the North Island has to offer including the best highlights.

Our top New Zealand travel tip is don’t try to do everything. We’ve listed a range of things to do in each location to suit a variety of travel styles and budgets. Pick the ones that appeal to you the most so that you can take the time to enjoy them.

I’ve included suggestions on how to shorten or lengthen this two-week itinerary at the end.

North Island Road Trip Overview

Day 1-2 : Auckland & Waiheke Island 

Day 3 : Paihia 

Day 4 : Bay of Islands (stay Paihia) 

Day 5 : Cape Reinga (stay Kaitaia) 

Day 6 : Piha Beach (via Waipoua Forest) 

Day 7 : Coromandel 

Day 8 : Waitomo (via Hobbiton) 

Day 9 : Rotorua 

Day 10 : Taupō 

Day 11 : Tongariro National Park (optional)

Day 12 : Hawkes Bay 

Day 13 : Martinborough 

Day 14 : Wellington 

14-Day New Zealand North Island Itinerary 

Auckland is an ideal place to start your North Island road trip. It’s New Zealand’s largest city and most international flights arrive at Auckland International Airport. 

I recommend grabbing a SIM Card at the airport so you have access to this itinerary while on the road.

I’ve provided estimates for drive times and the time needed for stops and activities to help with your planning. Please note these timeframes are a guide only and subject to traffic, weather conditions and your preferred pace. 

Day 1 – Auckland

These first two days in Auckland are all about easing into your trip with some of Auckland’s highlights before hitting the road.

You can follow our one-day Auckland itinerary or check out the top attractions listed below. These top Auckland tours , are another great way to see the city in a short amount of time.

Sky Tower (1-2 hours)

The Sky Tower is an iconic landmark in the city skyline. There are three viewing platforms at the top of the tower where you can see panoramic views of the city and Hauraki Gulf. You can even jump off or walk around the top of the tower if you’re looking for a thrill.

Due to its popularity, the Sky Tower is a good place to visit in the morning. It opens at 9:30am and we recommend booking your tickets in advance to skip the line.

Auckland Museum (2-3 hours)

The Auckland Museum is a beautiful museum located in the Domain, a 30-minute walk or short bus ride from the city center. It houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing New Zealand’s history and culture.

The museum is open daily from 10am and from 9am on Saturday and Sunday. You can secure your Auckland Museum General Admission ticket here .

There’s a nice café at the museum to stop for lunch.

Alternatively, you may be interested in visiting the Auckland Art Gallery or Maritime Museum, both located in the city center.

Mount Eden (1-1.5 hours)

Mount Eden is a dormant volcano and the highest natural point in Auckland with stunning views over the city and harbor.

It’s a 20-minute walk from the base to the top of the volcano. From here, you can see into the crater that is now covered in grass and stroll around the perimeter for different viewpoints around the city.

You can drive (about 15 minutes), take the bus or hop in an Uber or taxi to get there. If you drive yourself, there’s a small parking lot at the base in Tahaki Reserve or you can usually find parking along one of the side roads.  

Viaduct (2+ hours)

The Viaduct is where you’ll find the largest concentration of bars and restaurants lining the U-shaped marina. This is also where the Maritime Museum is located.

It’s a nice walk across the pedestrian bridge over to Wynyard Quarter and further along to Silo Park.

This is a great area to have dinner. We like Saint Alice for pizza and elevated views over the marina and White & Wong’s for vibrant fusion cuisine. Try to get a table on their outside veranda if it’s a nice day.

The Viaduct is also where you can experience Auckland’s nightlife . Try Dr Rudi’s for craft beer with marina views, HQ for a local pub experience or Parasol & Swing for delicious cocktails.

Where to Eat in Auckland

Here are some other great areas for dining out in Auckland from casual to fine dining.

Viaduct: For upscale dining on the water, try Oyster & Chop or Soul Bar for fresh seafood or Bivacco for delicious Italian cuisine.

Britomart: A nice area near the waterfront with a selection of restaurants and bars. Try Amano for rustic Italian.

Commercial Bay : Features an upscale food hall and restaurants near the waterfront offering cuisine from all around the world.

SkyCity: At the top of the tower, Orbit revolves as you dine, and The Sugar Club is modern and chic with dishes made for sharing. For casual, there’s Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar just across from the tower. It’s a favorite place for locals, myself included.

Fine Dining: Try Sidart Restaurant for New Zealand dishes with wine pairings, The Grove for a degustation of New Zealand food with a French twist or Sails Restaurant for its contemporary surf and turf menu.

Where to Stay in Auckland (2 Nights)

Campervan: Takapuna Beach Holiday Park

Budget-Friendly Stay: LYLO Auckland

Mid-Range Stay: Holiday Inn Express

High-End Stay: The Hotel Britomart (I love this hotel, cannot recommend enough)

Or check out our guide on the best areas to stay in Auckland for more great options.

Day 1 Summary and a suggested timetable

9:30am: Explore the Sky Tower

11:30am: Visit the Auckland Museum + lunch

2:30pm: Travel to Mt Eden

3:00pm: Climb to the top of Mt Eden volcano

5:00pm: Walk around the Viaduct

Day 2 – Waiheke Island

The highlight of day 2 is a trip to Waiheke Island , the ‘island of wine’. It’s covered in vineyards with over 30 wineries and cellar doors around the island.

There’s also secluded beaches, walking trails and activities such as ziplining on the island.

You’ll start by taking the 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island. The ferry boards by your place in line so I recommend getting to the ferry terminal early .

The wineries are spread out around the island so the best way to experience the island is by taking a winery tour.

I particularly like this Gourmet Food and Wine Tour because you can sample local artisan foods along with top local wineries, plus it includes a platter lunch.

If you prefer to explore Waiheke Island on your own you can hire a car, use the public bus or purchase a ticket for the Hop on Hop off bus .

Prefer adventure to wine tasting? This Zipline and Forest Walk Tour on Waiheke Island is good fun.

Alternatively, you can skip Waiheke and take the ferry or even join a kayak tour to Rangitoto Island . Then hike through lava fields to the top of this dormant volcano. There are fantastic views of the harbor and city from the top.

You can stay on Waiheke Island or another night in your Auckland hotel. If you stay on Waiheke Island, you’ll need to get an early ferry back to Auckland.

Where to Stay on Waiheke Island

Budget-Friendly Stay: Waiheke Backpackers Hostel

Mid-Range Stay: Cable Bay Views (we stayed here a couple of times, highly recommend)

High-End Stay: Delamore Lodge

Day 2 Summary and a suggested timetable

9:00am: Ferry to Waiheke Island

10:00am: Explore Waiheke Island

6:00pm: Walk around the Viaduct

Day 3 – Paihia, Northland 

Total Drive Time: 3.5-4 hours | Distance: 230km (143 miles) 

Hope you are feeling rested after a couple of days in Auckland, because today you are heading to sunny Northland.

Paihia is the gateway to the Bay of Islands which has plenty of fun things to see and do in the winterless north. We recommend making an early start for your journey north as it’s a bit of a drive. 

Note: This route has toll roads. You can find out how to pay online or at select service stations on the NZTA Government website .  

Stop 1: Whangarei Falls (30mins) 

Whangārei Falls is an iconic set of waterfalls standing at 26 meters tall. This waterfall was much bigger than I was expecting and a good place to stretch your legs. It’s an easy 10-minute walk from the parking lot to the base of the falls.  

I suggest allocating 30 minutes for this stop. This will give you time to walk to the falls and grab a few snaps.  

Whangarei town center is a good place to stop for a quick lunch before the final one-hour drive to Paihia. There are plenty of cafés and fast-food restaurants to choose from.  

Stop 2: Paihia (final stop) 

Waitangi Treaty Grounds (2- 3 hours) 

Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a historical site regarded as ‘the birthplace of New Zealand’. It’s where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed by the British settlers and the native Māori people in 1840, thus establishing the country’s founding document.  

The grounds have museums, cultural performances, a carving studio, plus a traditional meeting house to explore. 

It’s open every day from 9am to 5pm. Entry is $30 NZD for adult NZ residents and $60 NZD per adult for international visitors. 

Take the Ferry to Russell (2-3 hours) 

Take a 15- minute ferry ride from Paihia to the historic township of Russell. Or you can drive around the coast.   

Russell is New Zealand’s first seaport and European settlement and retains its original layout and quaint architecture.

It’s a lovely place to walk around, visit New Zealand’s oldest church and end the day with dinner at iconic The Duke of Marlborough while watching the sunset over Kororareka Bay. 

Where to stay in Paihia (2 nights) 

Campervan: Falls Motel and Waterfront Campground

Budget-Friendly Stay:  Haka Lodge Bay of Islands (Paihia)

Mid-Range Stay: Admiral’s View Lodge & Motel 

High End Stay: Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel   

Day 3 Summary and a suggested timetable

8:00am: Drive Auckland to Whangarei Falls

10:30am: Visit Whangarei Falls

11:00am: Early lunch in Whangarei

12:00pm: Drive Whangarei to Paihia

1:00pm: Explore Waitangi Treaty Grounds

3:30pm: Ferry to Russell

4:00pm: Walk around + Dinner in Russell

7:00pm: Ferry back to Paihia

Day 4 – Bay of Islands 

Now that you’ve explored the historic town of Russell and learned a bit about New Zealand history, it’s time to experience the real gem of the Bay of Islands. And the best way to do this is by boat! 

Bay of Islands Boat Cruise (4.5-6 hours) 

Spend your morning exploring the Bay of Islands on a boat tour. Take a cruise to one of the 144 islands, including hidden coves, beautiful sandy beaches, and the iconic hole in the rock.   

This Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour will take you around the isles with the opportunity to hop off and explore a couple of the remote islands. You’ll also drop anchor at the best spots for swimming, snorkeling and paddleboarding.  

For a slightly longer tour on a larger boat, this Bay of Islands Island-Hopping Sailing Cruise is the way to go. This tour includes mostly the same but on a beautiful catamaran with a picnic lunch and an additional stop to a wildlife sanctuary.   

Paihia Town and Opua Forest Lookout Track (3+ hours) 

Spend the rest of day exploring Paihia’s town center. Take a walk along the Opua Forest Lookout Track for stunning views. Visit Haruru Falls and afterward stop at PhatHouse Brewing Co to sample a selection of craft beer.  

Stay in Paihia for another night.  

Day 4 Summary and a suggested timetable

10:00am: Bay of Islands Boat tour

4:00pm: Explore Paihia and Lookout Track

6:00pm: Visit Haruru Falls

7:00pm: Dinner at PhatHouse Brewing Co.

Day 5 – Cape Reinga 

Total Drive Time: 5.5 hours | Distance: 347km (215 miles) 

Today we are heading as far north as you can go in New Zealand, and you have a couple of options for the how to explore the awesome gems you’ll find up here.  

Day Tour from Paihia (11.5 hours) 

One option is to take this full day tour from Paihia and stay in Paihia for a third night. It’s a full 11-hour day that takes you to all the best spots, including a drive along the spectacular Ninety Mile Beach.  

Most rental car companies don’t allow you to drive their vehicles onto the beach for safety reasons. It’s only suitable for 4WD vehicles and the tide can be tricky to navigate so you don’t get stuck!   

If you want the full experience of driving along Ninety Mile Beach or just want a break from driving, a tour may be worth considering. 

Drive Yourself to Cape Reinga  

Otherwise, continue making your way north to wild beaches, massive sand dunes and a picturesque lighthouse perched on the tip of New Zealand.  

There aren’t any amenities after Kaitaia, so be sure to have enough fuel, water and food to get to Cape Reinga and back to Kaitaia. I recommend bringing a packed lunch for today. 

Stop 1: Ninety Mile Beach (1 hour) 

On your way to Cape Reinga, make a stop along Ninety Mile Beach to stretch your legs. It’s not actually 90-miles long as the name suggests, but an 88 kilometer (55 mile) stretch of pristine white sand.  

Although the beach is officially a highway (crazy I know) you’ll have to leave the rental in the parking lot and wander down the beach on foot. Plan to spend up to an hour walking the golden sands and taking in the scenery. 

Stop 2: Cape Reinga (1-1.5 hours) 

Cape Reinga sits at the top of New Zealand and is the furthest accessible point you can get, marked by a beautiful lighthouse.  

Look out from the cliff face and watch as the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean collide into one.  

Also keep an eye out for the old Pohutukawa tree at the tip of the cape. According to Māori belief, this 800-year-old tree is the point where the spirits of the deceased leap into the ocean and return to their ancestral homeland. 

On your way back to the parking lot take a quick detour to see the cliffs surrounding the area without the crowds. Follow the path to the right where it splits and go down the steps for spectacular cliffside views.  

Tapotupotu Campsite (optional)    

If you have a campervan and prefer to stay in Cape Reinga for the night, the Tapotupotu Campsite is a scenic Department of Conservation (DOC) campsite right next to the ocean. it’s an incredible spot with basic amenities for a real off the beaten path experience.  

Just bear in mind, if you stay here for the night, you’ll have an extra hour of driving time tomorrow which is already a big driving day. If you do stay, you may want to visit our next stop on the way to Cape Reinga, so you don’t have to backtrack. 

Stop 3: Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes (1 hour) 

We’ve saved the sand dunes for your way back because after a few trips down you’ll have sand coming out of places you didn’t know was possible!  

These giant sand dunes are truly impressive and so much fun to slide (or roll as the case may be) down. They go up to 150 meters tall and are steep. It’s hard work getting up there but once you’re at the top it feels like you’ve arrived in the desert.  

Be sure to get a sandboard from one of the vendors along the road. Climb as far up as you can then hop on the board and slide down. It’s good fun! 

After shaking out as much sand as you can, make your way to Kaitaia for the night. We recommend getting an early night because tomorrow is the biggest driving day for this North Island itinerary. 

Where to Eat in Kaitaia 

There are plenty of restaurants, cafes and takeaway establishments along Commerce Street in Kaitaia. We had take out from Kai Thai Restaurant which was good. The portions were huge. I’ve also heard good things about Beachcomber Restaurant.   

Where to Stay in Kaitaia 

Campervan:  Norfolk Motel & Campervan Park

Budget-Friendly Stay: Beachcomber Lodge & Backpacker  

Mid-Range Stay: Kauri Lodge Motel

Day 5 Summary and a suggested timetable

8:00am: Drive Paihia to Ninety Mile Beach

10.30am: Walk along Ninety Mile Beach

11.30am: Drive Ninety Mile Beach to Cape Reinga

12.30pm: Explore Cape Reinga

2:00pm: Drive Cape Reinga to Sand Dunes

2:30pm: Sandboarding at the Sand Dunes

3:30pm: Drive Sand Dunes to Kaitaia

5.00pm: Arrive in Kaitaia

Day 6 – Piha Beach (via Waipoua Forest) 

Total Drive Time: 6-7 hours | Distance: 400km (248 miles) 

Today you’ll be driving along the largely untouched west coast of the North Island. The scenic route from Kaitaia down the west coast to Auckland is a lot quieter than the main highway because it takes a little longer.  

It’s a big driving day and we recommend starting early. You can take the ferry from Kohukohu to Rawene instead of driving around, which will save you a considerable amount of time and distance. 

If you opted to take a tour to Cape Reinga and stayed in Paihia for an extra night, you can take SH12 to Waipoua Kauri Forest which will take a little under two hours.   

Stop 1: Waipoua Kauri Forest (20 minutes) 

The first major stop is to a huge forest that is home to many kauri trees, which are native to New Zealand’s North Island.  

Tane Mahuta (aka ‘Lord of the Forest’) is the most famous of them all. In Māori belief, this tree is considered a God. It’s estimated to be 2000 years old and is massive, standing 51 meters tall and a girth of 14 meters. Try to wrap your arms around that!  

The parking lot for Tana Mahuta is well signposted from SH12 and it’s an easy 5-minute walk from the parking lot. 

Stop 2: Kauri Walks (50 minutes) 

A few minutes’ drive down the road from Tane Mahuta is another nice walk where you can visit Te Matua Ngahere , meaning Father of the Forest, and the oldest and second largest living kauri tree in New Zealand. 

This walk starts from the Kauri Walks parking lot. Then, it’s a 20-minute walk through the beautiful, lush forest to Te Matua Ngahere. 

Stop 3: Dargaville (1 hour) 

Continue following the scenic highway through towering green forest and massive ferns until you reach Dargaville, the Kumara Capital of New Zealand. This historic town was built on the timber and gum industries until it was replaced by farming in the 1920s.  

It’s a good place to stop for lunch. This small coastal town offers a surprising selection of restaurants and cafes. Try Moa Bakery and Café for a fresh baked savory pie. 

From Dargaville, the rest of the drive back to Auckland is mainly through flat farmland. At Wellsford you have the option to carry on State Highway 1 for the most direct route or follow the scenic route (State Highway 16) to Piha Beach with an optional stop at Muriwai Beach.  

I recommend taking the direct route, otherwise you won’t get to Piha until the evening.

However, I’ve included the scenic route below with a stop at Muriwai Beach in case you prefer this option.  

Stop 4: Muriwai Beach (1 hour – optional) 

If you opt for the scenic route, you can stop at Muriwai Beach to see the Gannet Colony if you’re traveling between August and March . Note: The walking track to the Gannet Colony is currently closed due to cyclone damage. 

Head to the upper car park for elevated views over the black sands of Māori Bay and the rugged and picturesque coastline.  

Down on the beach there’s caves you can explore if it’s low tide and you can see the gannets flying around the rocks overhead. 

Stop 5: Piha Beach (final stop) 

The wild and rugged black sand beaches of Auckland’s west coast are magic, and we highly recommend spending the night here. Or you can head back to the city center and stay in the same place as day one. 

Food options are limited in Piha, so your best option is stop for dinner in Kumeu, which you’ll pass through after leaving Muriwai.  

Try the Huapai Tavern for classic pub food or Morepork BBQ for American style food. You’ll also find a variety of eateries along the main road for something quick and easy.

Once you arrive in Piha, take a walk along the black sand beach surrounded by rugged coastline. Follow the path up Lions Rock for elevated views over the beach. It’s a great spot for sunset, just be sure to climb down before dark. 

Where to Stay in Piha Beach 

Campervan: Domain Motor Camp 

Mid-Range Stay: Piha Beachstay Hostel

High-End Stay: Romantic Piha

Day 6 Summary and a suggested timetable

7:00am: Drive Kaitaia to Waipoua Forest

10:30am: Waipoua Kauri Forest

10:30am: Kauri Walks

11:30am: Drive Waipoua Forest to Dargaville

12:30pm: Lunch in Dargaville

1:30pm: Drive Dargaville to Muriwai Beach (optional)

4:00pm: Muriwai Beach (optional)

5:30pm: Dinner in Kumeu

7:30pm: Piha Beach

Day 7 – Coromandel 

Total Drive Time: 4.5 hours | Distance: 272km (169 miles) 

Today you’re heading to the picturesque Coromandel Peninsula with its secluded bays, pristine beaches and cliffside views.

Roads are both scenic and winding on the Coromandel Peninsula so allow extra time for a relaxed drive and photo stops. 

The total drive time and distance are based on the most direct route from Auckland to Hahei Beach and then down to Whangamatā via State Highway (SH) 1 and SH 25, since most activities listed below are on the east coast.  

Stop 1: Hahei Beach & Cathedral Cove (2-3 hours) 

Hahei Beach is an absolute gem and one of my favorite spots on the Coromandel. It’s a long white sandy beach with calm turquoise water. You can go for a walk, take a swim or enjoy snorkeling and sea kayaking in the pristine water. 

Cathedral Cove is known for the giant arched rock cavern that joins two pristine beaches. The walking track is currently closed but you can catch a water taxi from Hahei Beach to Cathedral Cove which takes 10 minutes and runs every 30 minutes, no booking required.  

It costs $80 NZD per adult for a return trip which isn’t cheap, but you’ll get to enjoy this incredibly picturesque spot with a lot less crowds than there used to be.  

You can see updates about the track on the DOC website . 

Stop for lunch at one of the cafes in Hahei before heading to your next stop. 

Stop 3: Hot Water Beach (1-2 hours optional)    

Hot Water Beach is world-famous because you can dig your own natural hot pool during low tide, thanks to geothermal activity below the sand.

It’s certainly a unique attraction and with that comes a huge crowd. This beach is packed in that two hour window before and after low tide.  

If your timing doesn’t line up with low tide or you simply want to skip the crowds, continue to our next stop. It’s a good one!  

Stop 4: Donut Island (2 hours) 

Whenuakura Island is the official name for Donut Island, a large volcanic blow hole that has collapsed and created a turquoise lagoon in the center of the island. It’s surrounded by native fauna and volcanic cliff rock and pretty spectacular.  

You can paddleboard or kayak to the island from Whangamatā Beach. 

I highly recommend taking this guided kayaking tour to Donut Island because the wind and current can shift quickly, plus there is only one spot where you can enter the middle which they will help you find.  

The last tour departs at 3pm, so you will probably need to choose between Hot Water Beach and Donut Island unless you leave Auckland super early. 

Stop 5: Whangamatā (final stop) 

Check out the quirky boutique shops along main street and grab dinner at Soul Burger . They are one of my top 3 burgers in the country! 

Where to Stay in Whangamatā: 

Campervan: Wentworth Valley Campground  

Budget-Friendly Stay: Surf N Stay Whangamatā 

Mid-Range Stay: Palm Pacific Resort & Motel 

Day 7 Summary and a suggested timetable

8:00am: Drive Piha to Hahei Beach

11.30am: Hahei Beach & Cathedral Cove

1:30pm: Drive Hahei Beach to Whangamatā

3:00pm: Kayak tour to Donut Island

5:00pm: Dinner in Whangamatā

Day 8 – Waitomo (via Hobbiton Village) 

Total Drive Time: 3 hours | Distance: 209km (130 miles) 

Today we are heading to the small town of Waitomo, known for its underground cave systems that are home to the unique glowworms. 

On the way, we’ll be stopping at the Hobbiton Move Set, a must-do experience for LOTR fans. If this isn’t for you, then skip this stop and enjoy a leisurely morning in Whangamatā. 

Stop 1: Paeroa (10 minutes) 

About an hour from Whangamatā you’ll come to the town of Paeroa, home of the famous New Zealand soft drink , Lemon and Paeroa (aka L&P). There’s a giant L&P bottle that sits at the entrance to the town.  

Make a pit stop and grab of snap of this iconic statue. Better yet, grab a bottle of L&P to try if you haven’t already. It’s sweet and refreshing. 

Stop 2: Hobbiton Movie Set (2.5-3 hours) 

Visit the Hobbiton Village Movie Set, just outside Matamata. This guided 2-hour tour takes you all around the village including to Hobbit Holes, the Shire Mill and finishes with a pint at the Green Dragon Inn.

Tours run throughout the day, every day but you’ll need to book your tickets in advance for entry.

The Shire’s Rest Café is a good place to stop for lunch after your tour.  

Stop 3: Waitomo Glowworm Caves (1.5 hours) 

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves is one of the top places to see glowworms in New Zealand. A guided boat tour is the best way to explore the underground cave system to see how thousands of luminous glowworms light the dark caverns.  

Tours run throughout the day but bookings are essential , and you need to be there 30 minutes before the start of your tour. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, this black water rafting tour inside the caves is a must-do and my preferred choice, highly recommend. You’ll need 3 hours in total for the black water rafting experience.

There’s also the Ruakuri Cave which is incredible. It provides a more immersive experience with a walking tour through Waitomo’s longest underground cave .

Stop 4: Marokopa Falls (1 hour) 

Marokopa Falls is an impressive 35-meter-high waterfall that cascades over a rockface and is surrounded by native tawa and nikau forest.

It’s a 35-minute drive past Waitomo and then a 20-minute walk from the parking lot. Worth a visit if you have some extra time before it gets dark. 

Stop 5: Waitomo (final stop) 

Head back to the peaceful rural town of Waitomo for the night. For dinner try the HUHU Café or Tomo Bar & Eatery .  

Where to Stay in Waitomo 

Campervan: Waitomo Top 10 Holiday Park (they also have motel rooms and cabins) 

Budget-Friendly Stay: JunoHall Backpackers  

Mid-Range Stay: Waitomo Village Chalets  

Day 8 Summary and a suggested timetable

8:00am: Drive Whangamata to Hobbiton Movie Set

10:30am: Hobbiton Movie Set

1:00pm: Drive Hobbiton to Waitomo

3:00pm: Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

5:00pm: Marokopa Falls (optional)

6:30pm: Waitomo

Day 9 – Rotorua 

Total Drive Time: 2 hours | Distance: 139km (86 miles) 

Ready to experience the geothermal wonders of Rotorua? Don’t let the rotten egg smell put you off. It’s a truly unique place that you’ll struggle to find anywhere else in the world.  

With so many great things to see and do, I’m listing the top activities so you can pick and choose how you spend your time in Rotorua. 

Hell’s Gate (1-3 hours) 

Visit Hell’s gate to experience boiling hot pools, Sulphur rocks and erupting waters at New Zealand’s most active geothermal reserve.

Dip your feet in a genuine mud pool or go for the full experience with a thermal mud bath and sulphur spa . Just bring an old bathing suit, they’re never quite the same after.

ZORB Rotorua (1 hour) 

Zorbing is where you get inside a big, wet inflatable ball and roll down a hill, and Rotorua is where this bizarre activity started. It’ll probably be the most hilarious (and expensive) 3 minutes of your life, but so worth it. Bookings are essential . 

White Water Rafting (2.5 hours) 

Thrill seekers may want to try the Kaituna Rafting experience . Learn the history of the Kaituna River from expert guides as you make you way down the river, over rapids and small waterfalls, and ultimately the 7-meter high Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world. It’s a must-do for adventure lovers. 

Skyline Rotorua (2 hours) 

Skyline Rotorua is the go-to place for fun adventures for the whole family. You can ride the gondola for spectacular views over Mt Ngongotaha and Lake Rotorua, zip down the luge, zipline through the Redwood Forest or try the adrenaline pumping Skyswing.

The amount of time you spend here will depend on the number of activities you do and how crowded it is. There’s also a Skyline in Queenstown in case you don’t get a chance to do it here and are heading to the South Island next. 

Rotorua Tree Top Walks (45 mins) 

The Redwoods Treewalk is where you can walk across a series of suspended bridges and platforms amongst the giant redwood trees of the Whakarewarewa Forest.

At night the forest lights up with lanterns and art installations for an enchanting experience. They are open until 10:30pm during summer and until 9:30pm in winter. 

Tamaki Māori Village (4-hours) 

An evening at Te Pā Tū (formerly Tamaki Māori Village) is must-do cultural experience. Over the course of the evening, you’ll get to know Māori song, tradition, and kai (food) through interactive experiences in this fully recreated traditional Māori Village.

It’s recognized as one of the Top 10 Experiences in the World. We recommend booking your Te Pā Tū tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Geothermal Spa (1-2 hours) 

Relax in one of Rotorua’s famous spa pools. The Polynesian Spa and Secret Spot are both good options.  

The Polynesian Spa is the original and a larger complex. There is a large indoor pool and 5 mineral hot pools overlooking Lake Rotorua filled with geothermal water, plus a cold plunge.  Book your Polynesian Spa experience and let the day melt away.

The Secret Spot is smaller and more intimate. Each guest gets their own cedar hot tub filled with forest spring water that is heated and freshly circulated for each visitor. The tubs are lined up amongst native plants for a serene and relaxing experience.  Reserve your spot here .

Where to Eat in Rotorua 

Eat Street is Rotorua’s food haven, where you’ll find a dozen or so restaurants and bars lining the street offering everything from Thai to Italian. We particularly like BREW | Craft Beer Pub for good casual food and craft beer. 

Where to stay in Rotorua 

Campervan: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park 

Budget-Friendly Stay: Crashpalace Backpackers  

Mid-Range Stay: Jet Park Hotel

High-End Stay: Karanda B&B

Day 9 Summary and a suggested timetable

8:00am: Drive Waitomo to Rotorua

10:00am: Zorb or Treetop Walk

11:30am: White-Water Rafting

2:00pm: Hell’s Gate or free time in town

5:00pm: Te Pa Tu Cultural Experience

9:30pm: Geothermal Spa or Redwood Treetop Walk

Day 10 – Taupō 

Total Drive Time: 1 hour | Distance: 80km (50 miles) 

Today we are making the short drive to Taupō, with some fantastic stops along the way. Taupō is a small town that lies on the shores of Lake Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake.

The lake is actually the caldera of a supervolcano which is responsible for a lot of the geothermal activity in the area, like you’ll see at this first stop.

Stop 1: Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland (2 hours) 

On your way to Taupō, visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and take one of the many walking tracks to experience this geothermal park.  

Each track can take from 45 – 90 minutes as they wind their way through unique and world-famous attractions like the Champagne Pool, bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and volcanic craters.  

The Lady Know Geyser goes off at 10.15am daily reaching heights of up to 20 meters. Be sure to arrive by 10am to see this spectacular feature. You can book you tickets in advance to save time.

Stop 2: Huka Falls (10 minutes) 

Stop at Huka Falls just before Taupō and take the short walk across the bridge to access the lookout. From here, you can watch as more than 220,000 liters of crystal blue water thunder over the 11m cliff face every second.  

Stop 3: Taupō (final stop) 

Taupō is your final stop for today. There’s plenty of bars, restaurants and cafes in Taupō to grab some lunch. The Two Mile Bay Sailing Club does awesome pizzas with outdoor seating. 

Māori Rock Carvings (2-4 hours) 

After lunch take a scenic cruise around the blue waters of Lake Taupo to see the extraordinary Maori Rock Carvings, accessible only by water.

The massive carvings are the work of a local master carver from the 1970s. They depict Ngatoroirangi – a visionary Maori navigator who guided the local tribes to Taupo over 1000 years ago.  

We like this Eco Sailing Cruise on New Zealand’s only electric yacht. You’ll explore the rock carvings at Mine Bay and several other bays during the 2.5-hour cruise with a complimentary drink. You can even go for a swim. 

Or this Half-Day Kayak to the Māori Rock Carvings is a fun way to see the rock carvings, and my preferred option. You can get up close to the carvings and explore tiny inlets along the way, plus a chance to swim or go rock jumping. This one starts at 1:30pm and lasts for 4 hours.  

Hot Water Beach (1 hour) 

Did you know there’s a Hot Water Beach in Taupo ? In case you missed the chance to dig your own hot pool at Coromandel, you can dig one on the shores of Lake Taupo without the crowds. You can find it along the Great Lake Pathway. Just dip a toe first, it can be hot.  

Otumuheke Spa Park (1 hour)

End the day with a relaxing soak in these natural hot pools. The Otumuheke Spa Park is where hot water from the ground creates a stream that flows into the Waikato River.

Find a spot close to where the stream meets the river and dip a toe until you find a comfortable temperature. Just be sure to avoid where the water bubbles up because it’s very hot and can cause serious burns.

Also, don’t put your head under water as there can be certain bacteria that thrive in the warm temperatures that can cause serious illness.

To get here, park in the County Avenue carpark and follow the path to Otumuheke Spa Park . Oh, and did I mention it’s free!

Where to Eat in Taupo 

There’s plenty of restaurants to chose from in Taupo town center. Try The Bistro for a nice sit-down meal, Jimmy Coops Lakehouse for good burgers with outdoor seating or grab fish and chips to go from the Grasshopper and eat it by the lake. 

Where to Stay in Taupo 

Campervan:  Taupo TOP 10 Holiday Park  

Budget-Friendly Stay:  Finlay Jack’s Backpackers  

Mid-Range Stay:  Chevron Motel 

High-End Stay: Sacred Waters Taupo

Day 10 Summary and a suggested timetable

9:00am: Drive Rotorua to Wai-O-Tapu

9:30am: Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

11:30am: Drive Wai-O-Tapu to Taupo

12:00pm: Huku Falls

12:30pm: Taupo (lunch)

1:30pm: Māori Rock Carvings

5:30pm: Hot Water Beach or Otumuheke Spa Park

Day 11 – Tongariro National Park 

Total Drive Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Distance: 100km (62 miles) 

This next stop is an action-packed adventure around Tongariro National Park. Be sure to bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.

If you prefer, you can skip this stop and spend an extra day in Rotorua or Taupo, or head straight to Napier for a relaxing day among vineyards instead of hiking through ancient lava flows. 

Tongariro National Park encompasses three volcanoes and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Choose from the following walks to experience emerald lakes, steaming volcanic crates, ancient lava flows and Mt Doom!  

Tongariro Alpine Crossing (7-9 hours) 

Regarded as one of the best hikes in the world and the most popular hike in the North Island. At 19.4 kilometers long, over exposed and steep terrain, it’s not for the faint hearted but arguably one of the most rewarding experiences. 

The walk takes about 7-9 hours in total and can only be walked as a one-way track. This means you’ll have to arrange for return transportation.

The best option is to get a park and ride from Ketetahi , located close to the end of the crossing, which gets you a one-way shuttle service from there to the start of the crossing. This way your car is waiting for you at the end of the hike.  

Tama Lakes Walk (6 hours) 

A scenic alternative to the Tongariro Crossing without the crowds. This 17.6-kilometer walk takes you through tussock and alpine herb fields until you reach the emerald waters of the Tama Lakes, one of New Zealand’s most iconic geographic attractions. 

Taranaki Falls Walk (1 hour) 

An easy loop walk that takes you to some of the Park’s best sites, including the 20-meter-tall Taranaki Falls, which tumbles spectacularly over the edge of a 15,000-year-old lava flow. 

Tawhai Falls (5 minutes) 

A quick walk to a pretty waterfall which featured in Lord of the Rings. 

After your walk, you can drive back to Taupo and stay at the same place (book 2 nights) or stay in Tongariro National Park. 

Where to Stay in Tongariro National Park 

Campervan & Budget: National Park Alpine Lodge

Mid-Range Stay: Plateau Lodge (they offer a shuttle service to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing)

Day 11 Summary and a suggested timetable

6:30am: Drive Taupo to Tongariro

8:30am: Shuttle to the start of the crossing

5:30pm: Pick up car at end of track

7:00pm: Drive to Taupo or stay in Tongariro

Day 12 – Napier & Hawkes Bay 

Total Drive Time: 2.5 hours (from Taupo) | Distance: 165km (102 miles) 

Today we’re heading over the mountain range to the beautiful Hawkes Bay, a renowned wine-producing region of New Zealand. 

There’s plenty of things to do in Hawkes Bay whether you enjoy wine tasting, hiking or nature. Here’s a list of activities so you can choose what suits you best.  

Stop 1: Napier  

Art Deco Trail (2 hours) 

Explore the beautiful town of Napier, the art deco capital of New Zealand. Take a walk along Marine Parade to see the art deco landmarks and architecture the city is known for along with beautiful views of coast.

There’s plenty of places to stop for lunch in Napier. We had a nice sandwich from That Sandwich Place for something quick and easy. 

Bike Tour (1-6 hours) 

Rent an E-bike and explore the incredible network of cycle trails. It’s also a great way to visit some of the many wineries in the region.

You’ll get a map for a self-guided tour that takes you to a selection of wineries and other points of interest including breweries, classic kiwi pubs, wildlife estuaries and seaside pathways. 

Stop 2: Havelock North (final stop) 

Wine Tasting (2-6 hours) 

Havelock North is home to some of New Zealand’s best Wineries & Cellar Doors. Here are some of our top choices.

Craggy Range Winery: Set at the foot of Te Mata Peak, this stunning Cellar Door offers a relaxed and intimate tasting experience and exceptional restaurant. I like the Te Muna Road Pinot Noir and Te Kahau, a Bordeaux style blend. 

Te Mata Estate: Established in 1896 and one of New Zealand’s oldest wineries open for walk-in wine tastings and cellar doors. I love the Gamay Noir. 

Heretaunga Wine Studio: An interactive experience offering a range of wine varietals and exclusive samples straight from the barrel. Their studio theatre offers an immersive audio-visual treat. Try the Heretaunga Syrah. This is a good one to end the day, it’s open until 9pm.  

Cape Kidnappers (3 hours) 

Cape Kidnappers is a beautiful reserve and home to Gannet Colonies. It’s worth a visit if you didn’t get to see the Muriwai Gannet Colony in Auckland.  

The beach walk has reopened following a significant landslide but risk of rockfall and further slips remains high. The best way to see the Gannet Colony is to take this Gannet Safaris Overland Tour across a private farm.  

Tours run twice daily from September to April . You’ll learn about the area and these unique birds from an expert (and entertaining guide). The scenery is breathtaking and for many, a highlight of their North Island itinerary.  

Te Mata Peak (2 hours) 

Hike up Te Mata Peak for a chance to see incredible 360-degree views of Hawke’s Bay and the Heretaunga Plains. 

There are a series of well-graded tracks that vary in length and difficulty. For experienced hikers, it’s about a 2-hour return walk from the Main Gates Car Park to the summit on the blue trail. Just make sure you’re back by 10pm when the gates close.

Alternatively, you can drive to the summit. Just a heads up, the road is narrow and winding with a steep drop off in parts. It gets a little scary near the top with one way sections so do take care.

Where to eat in Havelock North 

For dinner, head to Alessandro’s Pizzeria for good Italian food, our preferred choice. We’ve also heard good things about Deliciosa Restaurant .  

Where to Stay in Havelock North:  

Campervan & Budget: Hastings TOP 10 Holiday Park  (10 minutes from Havelock North)

Mid-Range Stay:  Guest House on Guthrie 

High-End Stay: Porters Boutique Hotel   

Day 12 Summary and a suggested timetable

8:00am: Drive Taupo to Napier

10:00am: Art Deco Trail or Bike Tour

1:00pm: Drive Napier to Havelock North

1:30pm: Wine Tasting or Cape Kidnappers

5:30pm: Te Mata Peak

Day 13 – Martinborough 

Total Drive Time: 3 hours 15 min | Distance: 250km (155 miles) 

Today we’re heading to the underrated town of Martinborough, another top wine-producing region with a charming small town feel and one of the country’s best kept secrets nearby.

Stop 1: Greytown (30 minutes) 

On your way to Martinborough, stop in the small town of Greytown to stretch your legs and explore the cute boutique shops housed in restored Victorian buildings along the high street.  

Stop 2: Martinborough (final stop) 

Martinborough is a little gem with a population of just 2000-ish people. The town is loosely shaped on the Union Jack with a square at its center and various roads named after the travels of the towns founder, John Martin. 

You have a few options for how to spend your time here.  

Explore the Town Center (1-2 hours) 

Martinborough town center has a hipster flair but with a small-town charm. The shops are all super cute, even the butcher shop. Explore the fresh cafes with vibrant mural walls, rustic bakeries and boutique shops selling unique items.  

Hire a Bike (2-4 hours) 

There are over 60 vineyards on your doorstep, regarded as some of the best in the country. Being a compact area with relatively flat terrain, renting a bike is a great way to explore the cellar doors on a warm sunny day. 

Patuna Chasm (3 hours)

The Patuna Chasm is that best kept secret I mentioned, located 20 minutes’ outside Martinborough.

It’s a huge chasm carved out of limestone where you can walk through the clear stream at the bottom of the chasm to see the impressive rock formations, stalactites and fossils.

The Patuna Chasm is open from November until March . It’s on private land so you’ll need to book through Patuna Farm Adventures for access.

Visit The Runholder (3 hours) 

The Runholder is home to Te Kairanga wine, Martinborough Vineyard and Lighthouse Gin, and a mere four minutes from Martinborough town center. Housed in a slick black barn amongst the vineyards, The Runholder has a light and airy contemporary design, a huge tasting room and an open plan dining area.  

Book in for lunch (or dinner on Friday and Saturdays) and wine tasting. Then head downstairs for a behind-the-scenes tour of the modern wine cave.

Finish off the day with gin tasting and learn about the impressive story and meticulous care that goes into producing Lighthouse Gin. 

Putangirua Pinnacles (4 hours) 

Note: The Putangirua Pinnacles track is closed due a large slip. Check the DOC website for updates.

For something a little off the beaten path, the Putangirua Pinnacles are a 1-hour drive from Martinborough. These ancient spires jut out of the forest providing a dramatic landscape.  

There are tracks where you can hike to the lookout and get right up close to these giant formations. It should take around 2 hours all up to see the pinnacles. Wear sturdy shoes, the gravel can be slippery.

Where to Eat in Martinborough 

For dinner you could try Karahui Wine Bar & Eatery , or the York Bistro located in Parehua Resort. For a light meal, Martinborough Brewery has a good snack and beer menu. 

Where to Stay in Martinborough 

Campervan: Martinborough Top 10 Holiday Park

Mid-Range Stay: The Vicarage Martinborough

High-End Stay: Parehua Resort  

Day 13 Summary and a suggested timetable

8:00am: Drive Havelock North to Greytown

11:00am: Greytown

11:30am: Greytown to Martinborough

12:00pm: Explore town center

1:00pm: The Runholder (lunch & wine tasting) or Patuna Chasm

6:00pm: Dinner in Martinborough

Day 14 – Wellington 

Total Drive Time: 1 hour 17 min | Distance: 82km (51 miles) 

Your final day starts with a short drive over the winding Remutaka Range to Wellington, New Zealand’s capitol city and the final stop on this North Island itinerary.  

Here are some of the top ways to spend your time in Wellington. 

Te Papa (2-3 hours) 

Te Papa is New Zealand’s national museum where you can explore everything from Māori and European settlement to Giant Squids. There’s plenty of interactive displays and activities, including an earthquake simulation.  

It’s open daily from 10am-6pm. You can explore the museum on your own or take a one hour guided tour to see the highlights. Entry is free for everyone, although charges apply for some short-term exhibitions and special events.  

Wellington Cable Car (1 hour) 

Ride the Wellington Cable Car from Lambton Quay to the top of Kelburn for spectacular views of the city and harbor. The ride takes only a few minutes and there’s a Cable Car Museum and Botanic Gardens at the top.

Once you’re finished exploring you can ride the cable car or walk back to Lambton Quay. 

Zealandia (2-3 hours) 

Zealandia is an urban sanctuary located on the outskirts of the CBD where you can see native birds and wildlife. It’s a 10-minute drive or there’s a free shuttle you can take from the Wellington isite at top of the Cable Car. 

This ecosanctuary has reintroduced 18 native species into the region. You can walk the beautiful grounds on your own or take a tour. Keep a look out for native birds such as the tui, kaka and kereru and reptiles such as the tuatara.  

Cuba Street (1-2 hours) 

Cuba Street is a historic part of Wellington with old buildings and a bohemian vibe. It’s nice to walk around the pedestrian only walkways. There’s an eclectic mix of shops, cafes and art galleries.

Wellington is known for fantastic coffee roasters so be sure to stop at one of the cafes if you’re a coffee lover. We had a nice meal and great coffee at Fidel’s Café on Cuba Street. 

Mount Victoria (1.5 hours) 

The Mount Victoria Lookout Walkway is a 4.2km (2.6km) walkway that climbs through pine forests to a lookout point that offers spectacular views of Wellington Harbor and the city. 

It’s an easy well-maintained path that starts from Courtenay Place with a steep bit through the town belt. You can return the same way or loop down to return to Oriental Bay.  

Where to Eat & Drink in Wellington 

You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants in Wellington.  

For lunch we like the Dockside Restaurant & Bar and the Crab Shack . Both have outdoor seating on the wharf.  

For dinner, Charley Noble specializes in delicious wood-fired dishes. Or Burger Liquor is good for a casual meal. 

If you like craft beer, be sure to check out the craft breweries around town. The Garage Project and Parrotdog Brewery is a good place to start.

Where to stay in Wellington

Campervan: Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park

Budget-Friendly Stay:  Trek Global Backpackers

Mid-Range Stay:  West Plaza Hotel 

Luxury Stay:  Intercontinental Wellington 

Day 14 Summary and a suggested timetable

9:00am: Drive Martinborough to Wellington

10:30am: Te Papa

12:30pm: Cuba Street

1:30pm: Wellington Cable Car

2:30pm: Zealandia

4:30pm: Mount Victoria

6:30pm: Dinner/Craft Beer Brewery

10 Day and 3-Week North Island Road Trip

10-day north island itinerary .

If you have 10 days on the North Island, then follow this itinerary but skip going north of Auckland (days 3, 4, 5, and 6). Start with days 1 and 2 in Auckland then to go straight to day 7.  

3-Week North Island Itinerary  

If you have more than two weeks – Fantastic! You can see even more unique places and some of the more remote areas of New Zealand’s North Island.  

We recommend changing the route from day 8 and adding some stops as follows:  

Day 1-7 same as above – Day 8 Tauranga – Day 9 Waitomo (via Hobbiton) – Day 10-11 Taranaki – Day 12-13 Tongariro National Park (via Forgotten World Highway) – Day 14 Taupo – Day 15-16 Rotorua – Day 17 Napier (Hawkes Bay) – Day 18 Masterton/Castle Point – Day 19 Martinborough – Day 20-21 Wellington.  

New Zealand North Island Road Trip Planning Guide & FAQ 

Best time to visit new zealand’s north island .

The best time to travel around the North Island is between late October and early May (Spring, Summer, and Autumn). This gives you the most daylight hours, warmer days and relatively stable weather, although we get rainy days throughout the year on the North Island.  

December to February (summer) is peak travel season and school holidays in New Zealand. It’s a fantastic time of year with summer vibes in full swing, although It’s worth noting the roads will be busier and there will be more people around in general. 

Be sure to book activities, car rentals and accommodation as early as possible if you plan to visit in the summer months. 

November (late spring) is a great time to visit the North Island, the weather is getting warmer, days longer and the summer holidays haven’t started yet so it’s not too busy.

March / April (autumn) is my personal favorite time to travel New Zealand, with less crowds and comfortable temperatures for hiking.

The winter months of June to August are an ideal time to visit if you are here for the winter sports. Mount Ruapehu is the best place for skiiing on the North Island. Away from the mountains, the crowds have gone and the cost of car rentals and accommodation are at their lowest.

What to Pack for the North Island 

Layers are you best bet as the weather in New Zealand is changeable. How many layers will depend on the time of year and areas you’ll be visiting.

Here are some other top things to bring on your North Island road trip.

• Sturdy walking shoes / hiking boots
• Waterproof jacket
• High deet insect repellent
• Head torch / flashlight
• Quick dry towel
• Travel first aid kit
• Water bottle

Tips for Driving in New Zealand

• New Zealand drives on the left side of the road.
• Outside of the cities, roads can be narrow, winding with steep drop offs and sometimes gravel. Allow for more time than stated on maps and take lots of breaks.
• Road conditions can vary and maximum speed limits aren’t always safe. Take your time and use pull over bays to let traffic pass when needed (it’s common to do that here and you’ll probably get a ‘toot’ of thanks).
• You can keep an eye on road closures or alerts on the NZTA website .
• Mobile reception can be patchy in places, if you’re traveling with others get two SIM cards on two different networks for the best chance of continuous coverage. Spark, 2Degrees and One NZ (formerly Vodafone) are all different networks.

Picking up your rental car 

There are over a dozen car and campervan rental companies based in or near Auckland airport. This makes it easy if you plan on picking up your vehicle as soon as you arrive.  

Another option is to book your vehicle starting from day 3 and arrange to pick it up in Auckland City. Many companies have locations based in the city center in addition to the airport.

You won’t necessarily need a car to get around for the first two days in Auckland so this will save you money on rental and parking costs. Many hotels charge extra for parking, and it can be expensive. Plus, Auckland traffic is a pain.  

If you are getting a campervan, the cost of staying in a hotel for a couple of nights may be a little more expensive than your daily rate for the campervan, but you’ll be able to explore the city without trying to find parking and having to travel back to a campground or holiday park each night. 

Same goes for Wellington. Provided you aren’t traveling in your campervan via the ferry to the South Island, you may want to return your campervan before heading into central Wellington.

Getting from the Airport to Auckland City 

You have few options to get from the airport to the city center (aka Auckland CBD) if you don’t pick up your rental car from the airport. The airport is located about a 30–60-minute drive (depending on traffic) from city center.  

Taxi/Uber: Ask if they have a fixed fare rate to the CBD. Expect to pay around $70 to $80 for a fixed fare with Alert Taxis and Auckland Co-op Taxis (Corporate Cabs is more expensive). Uber is normally cheaper unless there is a surge in peak times.  

SkyDrive: An express bus service between the Auckland International Airport and SkyCity. A one-way ticket costs $18 per adult.  

Super Shuttle : A shared transfer in a minivan with one-way bookings starting at $36 for one person plus $8 for each extra person in the same group. 

Heading to the South Island Next?

Fantastic! You’re in for a who new adventure. The South is very different but equally impressive. Our 2-week New Zealand South Island itinerary will take you on a loop around the island with a mix of experiences from top attractions to off-the-beaten-path experiences in nature.

You can fly from Wellington to Christchurch and pick up a fresh rental vehicle for your South Island road trip. Or you can take your vehicle and cross over to the South Island by ferry.

There are two ferry companies that operate the crossing between Wellington and Picton, Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries and the Interislander . 

There is little difference between the two, although the Interislander has larger boats and more sailings per day. Both are comparable in price which varies depending on the day and time of sailing. 

Be sure to check if your rental car company allows their vehicles on the ferry before making your booking. Some companies don’t allow their vehicles on the ferry and have depots in both Wellington and Picton for you to drop off and pick up their vehicles, in which case you’d book as a walk-on passenger.

Wrapping Up

That’s a wrap on this New Zealand North Island itinerary. Thanks for reading! I hope you have an amazing time on your North Island road trip.

Travel Planning Guide

🚗 Where should I book my rental car?

Renting a car is one of the best ways to get around New Zealand. Public transportation can only get you so far, even in the cities. I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks the prices of all major rental car companies, so you get the best rates.

🚐 What about a campervan?

Renting a campervan is a fantastic way to experience the more remote areas of New Zealand. I really like JUCY because they have a big range of vehicles and locations around the country, which offers more flexibility with pick-up and drop-off. I also like Motorhome Republic , which compares all the campervan options available in NZ.

🛏 What’s the best way to book my accommodations?

For hotels and vacation rentals, Booking.com or Expedia.com are the best sites. You can also book through TripAdvisor. If you’re considering renting a house instead, try VRBO which often has good deals.

🛩 What’s the best site to buy flights to New Zealand?

For finding the best deals on flights to New Zealand from around the world, I recommend Kayak.com .

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Heather is a travel enthusiast living in New Zealand with her family. She writes about living in and enjoying travel to New Zealand.

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New Zealand - North Island Journey Times Map

The North Island of New Zealand has good roads and driving times are very reasonable.

More on New Zealand

Kate Abroad

10 Day North Island New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary (2024)

New Zealand is a small country but that doesn’t mean you can see it quickly, instead, it’s best to split your time by island and this 10 day North Island New Zealand itinerary is a great place to start.

This itinerary is really the highlights of the North Island as it’s impossible to see the whole place North Island in 10 days. However, if you have a bit more time, there’s a 2 week variation that squeezes more in.

The itinerary is designed to start in Auckland , which is the easiest place to fly into, and end in Wellington so you can jump on the ferry and continue on with my 10 day South Island itinerary for a total 3 week trip.

If you don’t have time for the South Island, then you can return to Auckland for your flight home.

To save a bit of money on this trip, I’d suggest looking into a bundled attractions pass which includes Rotorua hot springs, the Hobbiton movie set and a bunch of other top NZ activities you might want to do on this road trip.

How to get around the North Island on this itinerary

To be honest, this really only works well as a North Island road trip itinerary.

If you don’t have your own vehicle, you could travel by bus (see my full guide to New Zealand by bus ) but you will need to allow a few more days as there are limited intercity bus services each day.

I would recommend picking up your vehicle on the morning of day 4 when you leave Auckland. You won’t need a vehicle to get around Auckland and Waiheke Island is a ferry trip from central Auckland. You can save money by not paying for those days, plus you’ll avoid the hassle of Auckland parking. 

If you’re renting a campervan/motorhome/RV, I can tell you it’s almost always going to be cheaper to book cheap central accommodation in Auckland for the first 3 nights than paying for hireage for an extra 3 days plus paying for an Auckland campground that will be far from the city centre plus paying for Ubers/public transport to get in from the campsite.

Likewise, if you aren’t going to the South Island, it’ll be cheapest to do a one-way hire and drop off your car/van as soon as you get to Wellington as there are no central campgrounds in Wellington and you don’t need a vehicle to explore the city.

You can check out rental car prices and book on RentalCars.com

Where to stay on your 10 day North Island road trip

This itinerary works equally well for campervanning or driving and booking nightly accommodation. I have included both campground and hotel/motel accommodation options for each location. 

It’s worth noting that big hotels are only really available in Auckland, Wellington and Rotorua. Outside of there, it’s mostly small motels.

If you usually use points to book chain hotels, you won’t have any luck.

The 10 day North Island road trip itinerary

Days 1-2: auckland.

Start your trip off with two days of exploring New Zealand’s biggest city. If you’re coming from further afield than Australia, you might want to make this a slow start and give yourself some time to get over any jet lag.

The main activities for these days are a trip up the iconic Sky Tower (New Zealand’s tallest building) to see views of the city and exploring the waterfront. 

I especially love the Britomart area which is full of cafes, bars and boutique stores.

While at the sky tower, you could also check out the All Blacks exhibition to get a sense of our national obsession with rugby. Or try the reverse bungy or skyjump for something a bit more adventurous.

If you’re up for venturing a bit further afield, you could take a trip out to Piha, the rugged west coast beach not far from Auckland.

Swimming is not recommended here; we literally have a TV show – Piha Rescue – dedicated to saving tourists who get caught in the rough conditions at Piha.

Alternatively, jump on the ferry to Devonport to visit the more family-friendly North Shores beaches .

There are also some good walks around Auckland. Mount Eden or One Tree Hill are short options that will get you good views for not much effort. Otherwise, head to the Waitakere Ranges for serious hiking.

• Luxury: Hilton Auckland
• Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express
• Budget: Attic Backpackers

Day 3: Waiheke Island 

On day 3, jump on the ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island. The island is in the middle of the Hauraki Gulf less than an hour’s ride from the city.

A return ferry trip to Waiheke Island costs $46 per adult (sometimes there are specials) and ferries run hourly. You can buy tickets at the wharf or online . Advance bookings are a good idea on weekends, in summer or on public holidays.

The highlights of Waiheke Island are the wineries and galleries, and you can either walk, hire bikes or jump on an organised tour to get between them. My favourites are Mudbrick and Stonyridge.

Waiheke is also a beachy spot with lots of options for sunbathing, coastal walks and kayaking or paddle boarding.

If you’re visiting in summer, take the bus to Oneroa Beach and spend some time in or on the water there. You can easily hire boards or kayaks from Kayak Waiheke.

This is a day trip so you can stay in your same Auckland accommodation from Days 1-2.

Day 4: Coromandel

Drive time from Auckland to Coromandel (Whitianga):  2.5-3 hours

Distance: 200km

The Coromandel Peninsula is where many North Islanders come for holidays because of the miles of beautiful swimmable beaches.

I grew up going to Whangamata and Pauanui which are great family beaches in the Coromandel. 

However, the main attractions for visitors and the places you absolutely must hit up on your 10 day north island road trip are Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach which are just south of the town of Whitianga. 

You might recognise Cathedral Cove from the Narnia movies as the rock archway has become one of New Zealand’s most famous photo spots .

Hot Water Beach is known for its warm water rock pools which are heated by thermal hot springs and mean you can swim year-round.

If you’re ok with ait of extra driving, I’d recommend spending some time driving around the coast and checking out all the beaches along the way.

• Luxury: Esplanade Apartments
• Mid-range: Beachside Resort Motel
• Budget/Camping: Harbourside Holiday Park

Day 5: Hobbiton 

Drive time from Coromandel (Whitianga) to Hobbiton (Matamata): 2.5 hours

Distance: 170km

Whether you’re a Lord of the Rings fan or not, visiting Hobbiton is a must-do experience in New Zealand. The cute hobbit-sized houses make great photos if nothing else. 

You can do the standard movie set tour or time your visit for the second breakfast or evening banquet options. The food spread almost looks like something from Harry Potter.

Hobbiton is the main event of Day 8 so if you aren’t interested in staying long there you could spend the morning exploring more of the Coromandel or push on to Cambridge which is a really pretty small town in the Waikato region of the North Island with lots of great food options.

Find more ideas in my Waikato road trip guide .

• Luxury: Villa Walton Bed & Breakfast
• Mid-range: Broadway Motel
• Budget/Camping: Opal Hot Springs Holiday Park

Day 6: Waitomo

Drive time from Hobbiton (Matamata) to Waitomo: 1.5 hours

Distance: 100km

Today it’s time to visit Waitomo Caves. On the way, stop at Mount Pirongia and/or Otorohanga.

Mount Pirongia is a great day hike for the committed tramper, otherwise, you can do shorter walks in Pirongia Forest Park, find the trail details on the DoC website.

Otorohanga is the Kiwiana capital of New Zealand and you’ll notice that when you drive past the giant kiwi on the way into town.

While you’re there you can see the Kiwiana Walk which takes you through the history of some of New Zealand’s cultural icons. There are real live kiwis too at the Otorohanga Kiwi House.

The Waitomo caves are a huge favourite of mine since childhood, although I still can’t remember the difference between stalactites and stalagmites! Either way, you can see both at Waitomo as well as glow worms. Plus, there is black water rafting which is cold, dirty and heaps of fun!

If you aren’t keen on fitting into a tube, then you can do guided walking tours of the caves. The Waitomo Caves Tours Guide has a comparison of the different options available.

• Luxury: Waitomo Boutique Lodge
• Mid-range: Woodlyn Park Motel
• Budget/Camping: Waitomo Top 10 Holiday Park

Day 7: Rotorua

Drive time from Waitomo to Rotorua: 2 hours

Distance: 150km

Rotorua is the number one tourist location on the North Island because it offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions plus lots of adventure options.

One thing you need to be aware of when you visit Rotorua though is that it stinks like rotten eggs. That’s the sulphur from the geothermal hot springs . The benefit is that you can go soak in the springs at Polynesian Spa or see the geysers around town and near the lakeside. 

Other than spas and geysers, you can check out some fun and thrill-seeking activities like the zorb or the luge or mountain biking. Or just take a ride up the gondola to enjoy the views.

Rotorua is also known for Maori culture as it’s a place of historic significance and the home of the Arawa tribe.

There are plenty of cultural experiences on offer, which allow you to learn about Maori culture and history. Just please don’t go thinking modern Maori live in grass huts or cook all their food in the ground.

• Luxury: Pullman Rotorua
• Mid-range: ibis Rotorua
• Budget/Camping: Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park

Day 8: Tongariro

Drive time from Rotorua to Tongariro (National Park): 2 hours 15 minutes

Distance: 180km

By the time you get to Day 8 you will have seen coastal New Zealand, city New Zealand and farming New Zealand, so now it’s time for mountains.

As you approach Tongariro, you’ll see views of the perfectly conical Mount Ngaurahoe which features as Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings movies.

Tongariro National Park is famous for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the most popular day hike in New Zealand with phenomenal views.

If possible, plan to get to Tongariro in time to devote a full day to the walk (it’s about 8 hours).

There are affordable shuttle options to help you get to/from each end of the trail.

If you don’t have time or want to hike or the weather packs in, then you can simply enjoy exploring the cute mountain towns of Ohakune and National Park. Make sure to grab one of the famous eclairs from the dairy in Ohakune.

In winter, it’s also possible to ski on the slopes of Ruapehu, using National Park as your base. All gear can be hired either in the towns or on the mountain and lessons are available. You can also buy day passes for the lifts on the mountain.

• Luxury: Chateau Tongariro
• Mid-range: Mountain Heights Lodge
• Budget/Camping: Tongariro Holiday Park  

Days 9-10: Wellington

Drive time from Tongariro (National Park) to Wellington: 4 hours

Distance: 330km

Day 9 will be the biggest driving day as you cover half the length of the North Island, so you’ll need at least one extra day to see New Zealand’s capital city. 

On your way from Tongariro to Wellington, you could stop at Otaki (for cafes and outlet shops) or the Kapiti Coast beaches (for walks and swimming). I wouldn’t bother stopping at Palmerston North.

There are so many things to do in Wellington but the top of your list should be Te Papa , the national museum located on the waterfront which contains so many stories of New Zealand’s history.

Don’t miss a trip on the iconic red Wellington cable car that runs from the main street of Lambton Quay up to the historic suburb of Kelburn.

I’d recommend taking the cable car uphill then walking down through the Botanic Gardens. You can buy your tickets online here .

You can also check out the city beaches around Oriental Bay and enjoy ice-cream or fish and chips on the beach.

Wellington is a foodie city and obsessed with coffee. To discover the best the city has to offer, head to the laneways which contain lots of art, awesome cafes and hidden cocktail bars .

• Luxury: Bolton Hotel
• Mid-range: Quest The Terrace
• Budget: The Marion Hostel
• Camping: Capital Gateway (this is a train ride from the city)

Find more options in my Wellington luxury hotel guide , Wellington Airbnb guide or Wellington camping guide .

Alternative: 1 week North Island itinerary

Having only one week in the North Island is really pushing it to squeeze everything. I’d recommend taking the full 10 days or even better, 2 weeks so you can properly see everything.

However, if you are really short on time, then you could skip Wellington and spend only one day in Auckland. The best parts of New Zealand are outside the cities after all and cutting the southernmost point will really reduce your driving time.

Alternative: 2 week North Island itinerary 

This extended itinerary fits even more in but is very action-packed. It works because many of these places are more about natural attractions than activities, so you don’t need as much time there.

For a more slow-paced option, you could take the 10 day itinerary and add extra days in the Coromandel and Rotorua.

• Waiheke trip

As a kiwi, it’s hard to narrow down my favourite parts of my home country to a short itinerary. There’s so much to see and do and there’s no wrong way to see New Zealand.

If you try this 10 day North Island New Zealand itinerary, I’d love to hear what you think. Let me know in the comments below.

Happy travelling!

New Zealand Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Pre-book your tickets to attractions on Get Your Guide
• Find awesome day tours on Viator
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your New Zealand dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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New Gateway Expressway now open in Pinellas County

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The new Gateway Expressway opened in Pinellas County on Friday afternoon, according to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

For the first time, drivers have new connections between U.S. 19, the Bayside Bridge and Interstate 275.

What You Need To Know

The long-awaited gateway expressway opened on friday afternoon two new elevated, four-lane toll roads connect drivers to i-275 — one from u.s. 19 and the other from the bayside bridge the project also includes new tolled express lanes along i-275, from just south of gandy boulevard to 4th street north, one in each direction below: more about the new road names, toll pricing.

The $600 million project opened after more than six years of construction and several delays that included the pandemic but also the large scale of the work.

🚗It's the big day! The new Gateway Expressway in Pinellas County is opening this afternoon. Drivers will have new connections between US 19, the Bayside Bridge and I-275. Here's a breakdown of what to expect: pic.twitter.com/FU1kaiX5rF — Tim Wronka (@TimWronka) April 26, 2024

Two new elevated, four-lane toll roads connect drivers to I-275. One from U.S. 19 and the other from the Bayside Bridge.

The project also includes new tolled express lanes along I-275, from south of Gandy Boulevard to 4th Street North, one in each direction.

FDOT on Wednesday said using the new lanes will be free for the first seven days after they are opened. After that, pricing will be:

Map and toll information for the new Gateway Expressway in Pinellas County, set to open Friday afternoon! The first 7 days will be toll free so drivers can try it out. @BN9 pic.twitter.com/FKG2BO1VwS — Tim Wronka (@TimWronka) April 24, 2024

The biggest change drivers should see is less congestion and easier access to and from I-275.

Greg Deese, an FDOT engineer, has worked on the project since the beginning.

"Really going to become a highly used facility. You have a lot of regional traffic between U.S. 19 and I-275," he said. "It really was about five projects in one. So a project that complex inevitably runs into delays."

The Gateway Expressway is part of several state projects to help ease traffic congestion in the area as the population grows.

What are the new roads?

State Road 690: A new elevated four-lane tolled expressway from U.S. 19 to I-275. The road is built in the median of 118th Avenue North.

State Road 686A: A new elevated four-lane tolled expressway from the Bayside Bridge to I-275. The road is built in the median of Roosevelt Boulevard between the Bayside Bridge and Ulmerton Road.

I-275 Express Lanes: I-275 has been widened to add tolled express lanes, one in each direction from south of Gandy Boulevard to 4th Street North.

Impact on St. Pete-Clearwater Airport:

As part of the project, FDOT rebuilt Roosevelt Boulevard near the airport from the Bayside Bridge to Ulmerton Road as two one-way roads.

Crews also built a new airport access road that runs parallel to Roosevelt Boulevard. There's also a new traffic light at the intersection at Terminal Boulevard.

The new configuration is expected to ease traffic congestion by the airport.

Other improvements:

FDOT also repaved 118th Avenue North from U.S. 19 to 31st Court North as part of the project. Existing sections of U.S. 19 and 118th Avenue North were rebuilt, including new ramps and bridges.

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Moscow (Idaho) to Boise drive

Moscow (idaho) to boise road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Moscow (Idaho) to Boise. If you're planning a road trip to Boise, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Moscow (Idaho) drive for about 41 minutes

10:41 am   Hells Gate State Park stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:41 am drive for about 1 hour

12:53 pm   White Bird (Idaho) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:53 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

3:22 pm   McCall stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:22 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

6:05 pm   Horseshoe Bend (Idaho) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 7:05 pm drive for about 40 minutes

7:45 pm  arrive in Boise

driving ≈ 5.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Hells Gate State Park White Bird (Idaho) McCall   (2 answers) Horseshoe Bend (Idaho)

What are some things to do in Boise?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Boise. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Boise.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Boise to Moscow (Idaho) drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

Looking for ideas for more destinations within driving distance of Moscow (Idaho)? Try searching for places within 5.5 hours of Moscow (Idaho) .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Moscow (Idaho) to Boise . Or get a full Moscow (Idaho) to Boise flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Moscow (Idaho) well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Moscow (Idaho)!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Moscow to Boise

places to eat

flattest route

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The flight time from United States to Moscow, Russia is:

11 hours, 24 minutes.

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Flight map from United States to Moscow, Russia

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Flying time from United States to Moscow, Russia

The total flight duration from United States to Moscow, Russia is 11 hours, 24 minutes .

This assumes an average flight speed for a commercial airliner of 500 mph, which is equivalent to 805 km/h or 434 knots. It also adds an extra 30 minutes for take-off and landing. Your exact time may vary depending on wind speeds.

If you're planning a trip, remember to add more time for the plane to taxi between the gate and the airport runway. This measurement is only for the actual flying time. You should also factor in airport wait times and possible equipment or weather delays. If you're trying to figure out what time you'll arrive at the destination, you may want to see if there's a time difference between United States and Moscow, Russia .

The calculation of flight time is based on the straight line distance from United States to Moscow, Russia ("as the crow flies"), which is about 5,446 miles or 8 764 kilometers .

Your trip begins in the United States. It ends in Moscow, Russia.

Your flight direction from United States to Moscow, Russia is Northeast (24 degrees from North).

The flight time calculator measures the average flight duration between points. It uses the great circle formula to compute the travel mileage.

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Travelmath provides an online flight time calculator for all types of travel routes. You can enter airports, cities, states, countries, or zip codes to find the flying time between any two points. The database uses the great circle distance and the average airspeed of a commercial airliner to figure out how long a typical flight would take. Find your travel time to estimate the length of a flight between airports, or ask how long it takes to fly from one city to another.

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