What Are The Best 2-Day Tours In Christchurch? Our Top 6 Picks

Christchurch is a fantastic base for exploring some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes in just two days. Its strategic location and excellent transport options, like scenic trains and private tours, make it easy to see both iconic sights and off-the-radar treasures. Whether you’re craving a whirlwind trip through glacial valleys, a scenic train ride, or exploring local towns, Christchurch offers a variety of options tailored to different interests and travel styles. We particularly recommend tours that combine natural beauty with authentic experiences, like walking through the Devil’s Punch Bowl or stargazing at Lake Tekapo.

One of the reasons Christchurch stands out for 2-day tours is its proximity to the Southern Alps, glaciers, and some of New Zealand’s most photogenic lakes. For example, the From Christchurch: 2 day tour to Queenstown via Franz Josef offers a balanced mix of driving, walking, and relaxing in small-group settings, giving you an immersive taste of the West Coast and alpine scenery. For those short on time but eager to cover a lot, the 2-Day Christchurch to Queenstown Tour via West Coast includes a scenic train ride across the Southern Alps, with stops in Hokitika and Franz Josef. For a more personalized experience, the Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook private tour offers custom stops, guided walks, and gourmet meals.

Below, we explore each of these tours in detail to help you decide which one best suits your travel style and interests.

1. From Christchurch: 2 day tour to Queenstown via Franz Josef

This 2-day adventure takes you from Christchurch to Queenstown, with an overnight stay in Franz Josef to explore the stunning glaciers and rainforests of the West Coast. The tour is designed for travelers wanting a mix of scenic highlights and authentic experiences. You’ll start with a drive through Canterbury’s landscape, then visit the iconic Lake Matheson, famous for perfect reflections of the Southern Alps, and the Wanaka Tree, a beloved photo subject. Spending the night in Franz Josef allows for more relaxed exploration—think short walks to glacier viewpoints or even a helicopter ride to see the Southern Alps up close.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of small-group travel and flexible accommodations, letting you tailor your stay. The scenery along the way is constantly changing, from lush rainforests to towering glaciers and mountain vistas. The guide’s local knowledge enriches your understanding of this wild corner of New Zealand. Reviewers appreciate the diverse itinerary and the chance to photograph the Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall and Lake Matheson in their prime.

Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded, scenic trip with a night in Franz Josef, this tour offers excellent value for $340, with plenty of photo opportunities and chances to stretch your legs.

2. 2-Day Christchurch to Queenstown Tour via West Coast

This highly-rated tour is perfect for those short on time but eager to see the highlights of the South Island’s rugged West Coast. It’s a small-group experience that covers a lot in just under two days, starting with the world-famous TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth. It’s widely regarded as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, crossing the Canterbury Plains and the Waimakariri River gorge. Once in Greymouth, a comfortable vehicle will take you through Hokitika—famous for greenstone and arts—and onto Franz Josef Glacier.

What makes this tour unique is the seamless combination of train travel and road trips, giving you a comprehensive taste of the region’s natural beauty and history. You’ll get short walks to glacier viewpoints and the chance to learn about the area’s geology and Maori heritage. The tour’s high rating (5.0/5) is partly due to the attentive guides and the personalized small-group experience.

While hotel costs in Franz Josef are extra, the tour’s structured itinerary means you’ll spend your time seeing the landscape rather than planning logistics. If you’re after efficiency and authentic scenery, this tour does not disappoint.

Bottom Line: For around $1,506, this tour is a great choice for travelers wanting an efficient, immersive experience of the West Coast with minimal hassle and maximum scenery.

3. Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook – Two Day Private Tour

This private 2-day tour offers a relaxed and customizable way to explore the highlights of Canterbury, Mount Cook, and Queenstown. Starting with hotel pickup, this tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a personalized experience with flexibility. You’ll visit Lake Tekapo and see the Church of the Good Shepherd, known for its iconic setting and stunning star-gazing possibilities, then continue to Mt Cook National Park, where guided walks bring the landscape to life.

On day two, the journey includes scenic stops at Lindis Pass and optional walks in the alpine scenery. The guide’s commentary enhances your understanding of the region’s geology and Maori culture. This tour is particularly suited for travelers looking for a stress-free, intimate experience with tailored stops, including lunch and personalized attention.

Because it’s private, it’s more costly at around $145 per person but offers a level of comfort and customization that larger group tours can’t match. Reviewers enjoy the seamless logistics and the opportunity to take their time at each stop.

Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a flexible, private experience with in-depth exploration and no rush.

4. Christchurch to Queenstown 2 Day Tour via Franz Josef

This well-rated tour by Cheeky Kiwi Travel combines the best of the West Coast’s glaciers with the journey to Queenstown. Starting in Christchurch, your first stop is Lake Lyndon, a peaceful spot for photos, followed by the awe-inspiring Castle Hill limestone formations, which have appeared in many movies. Your journey continues through Arthurs Pass Village with excellent mountain views and an optional walk to the Devils Punchbowl waterfall.

The highlight is exploring Franz Josef Glacier with a shuttle transfer and optional helicopter ride to get close to these massive ice formations. The tour emphasizes personalized service and small-group comfort, making your experience more intimate. Reviewers mention the professionalism of guides like Clive and Lynette and appreciate the flexible itinerary.

A key benefit of this tour is the mix of scenic stops, glacier exploration, and mountain views, all at a reasonable price of $359.93. Its inclusive approach balances sightseeing, light walking, and comfort, making it suitable for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed experience.

Bottom Line: If you seek a well-organized, scenic, glacier-focused tour with personal touches, this tour offers great value and memorable landscapes.

5. Christchurch: Lake Tekapo Stargazing & Mount Cook 2-Day Tour

This specialized tour combines natural beauty with the magic of the night sky. You’ll explore Lake Tekapo, known for its Church of the Good Shepherd, then head to Mt Cook for daytime hikes and sightseeing. What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to stargaze at Lake Tekapo, renowned for its clear skies and minimal light pollution.

During the day, enjoy walking along the Hooker Valley Track or visiting the local alpaca farm for a fun feeding session. The combination of daytime scenery and nocturnal star-gazing makes this a perfect choice for those interested in both nature and astronomy. The tour offers a cozy overnight stay and a chance to see the Milky Way with your own eyes.

While priced at a premium, this tour is geared toward travelers who want a deeper experience of New Zealand’s night sky and stunning alpine lakes. It’s highly rated (5/5), with reviews praising the itinerary and the unique stargazing experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for romantics and astronomy buffs wanting a memorable overnight adventure with scenic walking and stargazing.

6. Lake Tekapo Stargazing & Mount Cook 2-Day Tour from Christchurch

This comprehensive overnight tour takes you through the Mackenzie region, stopping at Geraldine for local cheese, then visiting Lake Pukaki and the Lavender Farm. The highlight is the stargazing session at the Church of the Good Shepherd, combined with daytime walks in Mount Cook National Park.

The tour balances scenic stops, farm visits, and the chance to feed alpacas, making it appealing for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration. The itinerary is well-paced, and the small-group setting ensures personalized attention. The price of about $359.31 per person reflects the inclusion of visits to multiple top attractions and the starry night experience.

Guests appreciate the detailed itinerary and the opportunity to see five of New Zealand’s most beautiful highlights without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for those who want a full experience packed into two days.

Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a detailed and leisurely exploration of Tekapo and Mt Cook with a focus on stargazing, this tour offers excellent value.

How to Choose the Right 2-Day Tour in Christchurch

When selecting your ideal trip, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For instance, if you love scenic train journeys and glaciers, the 2-Day Christchurch to Queenstown via West Coast delivers impressive scenery with less walking. If a private, tailored experience appeals, the Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook private tour offers flexibility and comfort, though at a higher cost.

For those interested in astronomy and lakes, the Lake Tekapo Stargazing & Mount Cook provides a memorable combination of daytime sightseeing and nighttime star-gazing. Budget travelers might prefer the more affordable From Christchurch: 2 day tour to Queenstown via Franz Josef, which balances scenic highlights with flexible overnight options.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons (summer and holiday periods). Also, clarify what’s included—like accommodation, meals, and optional activities—to ensure the best value for your interests.

Final Thoughts

Christchurch offers a wide array of 2-day tours suited to different tastes and travel styles. For those wanting spectacular scenery combined with local charm, tours like the Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef and the West Coast train journey stand out as top picks. If you prefer a more personalized, private experience, the Mt Cook private tour is a fantastic choice.

Travelers seeking a mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic experiences will find plenty of options to suit their needs. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, booking early will help secure the best tours and accommodations. These carefully curated adventures turn Christchurch into a gateway to some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes, all within a manageable two-day itinerary.