Ultimate 3-day Auckland Itinerary- Must see in 2023

Auckland is the biggest metro city in New Zealand and the most populated with one-third of New Zealand’s population. It is not often the city you’ll fall in love with at first sight to be very honest, it will take some time for it to grow on you. At least for me, it took a while for me to start accepting Auckland haha.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to New Zealand Travel

I’ve lived here for nearly 3 years now, and have explored quite a bit (mind me, nearly 1 year is in lockdown mode). It will take a lot of trips, and time to fully explore Auckland, but if you just want to get a taste of it, this 3-day Auckland itinerary is your friend! Whether you’re an NZ local exploring this part of the country, or an international visitor for the first time, this 3-day Auckland Itinerary will give you a good idea of what to do in Auckland!

This Auckland itinerary doesn’t require a car, it will mostly be near the Auckland City area or those places where buses/trains can reach. Of course, the most convenient way to get around Auckland is by driving, but I understand not everyone can or want to drive! Let’s dive into the specifics now!

Auckland Itinerary- When is the best time to visit Auckland?

Well, depending on what you’re looking for really. But this 3-day Auckland itinerary will have a variety of indoor/outdoor things. So depending on the weather, you can always tweak it around!

Best time to visit Auckland- For the best weather

December- February- New Zealand summer is definitely the best time of year to visit Auckland, a lot drier compared to the other seasons and has warm weather, with an average of around 23-25°C only.

Avoid Winter/ Early Spring months June-October, it’s the wettest months in Auckland, if the weather means a lot to you, these would be the months to avoid!

Best time to visit Auckland- For budget-travellers

June- October- New Zealand Winter time, which as mentioned above has the worst weather out of all seasons. This explains why it would be the cheapest month to visit, as it will also be less crowded. So if you’re on a tight budget and still want to explore Auckland, this is your time! 

And to be fair, there are so many indoor things to do in Auckland, so you can still enjoy Auckland as much when it rains!

But if you don’t mind getting wet in the rain, then perfect! You can save a lot significantly visiting in Winter🙂

Best time to visit Auckland- Shoulder seasons

March- to May (Fall/Autumn) and September- November (Spring) are considered the shoulder months, right before and after the busiest summer season. This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and high prices in summer, but also to avoid the harsh weather in winter.

The weather in spring can still be a bit unpredictable, with spring showers ushering in the transition of season from winter to summer. 

Overall, this 3-day Auckland Itinerary will be suitable regardless of the time you visit Auckland! I understand not everyone has the luxury of choosing when to travel, so don’t worry too much about the best time to visit Auckland, you’ll find what to do in Auckland regardless 🙂 

Summary of this 3-day Auckland Itinerary

Day 1- Exploring Auckland CBD 

Day 2- Waiheke Island

Transport- Ferry (approx 45 minutes one way)

Visit and dine at a few of the many wineries on the island

Take the hop on hop off bus

Enjoy the sunshine at the beach

Day 3- Explore the nature/ history of Auckland

Transport- Bus/ Walking or Driving

Take a small hike up to the Mt Eden Volcano Walk

Spend some time on the Rangitoto Island

Explore the Auckland Museum at Auckland Domain

Venture out a bit to Parnell

Breakdown of this 3-day Auckland Itinerary

For this 3-day Auckland Itinerary, a car isn’t necessary as most of the places will be within walking distance or where buses reach. And choosing accommodation near or in the city would be the most convenient, it will save you time and money waiting for a bus or an uber.

Day 1 Explore the Auckland City

Transport: Mostly walking, have bus/train options if needed as well

Since you’re in the largest city in New Zealand, of course, you’d have to explore the city area and soak in the city vibe.  I have to say though since the pandemic happened, it has made Auckland CBD die down a bit, but hopefully, with more tourists like you, the vibe will bounce back!

Explore Queen Street/ Commercial Bay area

Perfect start to this 3-day Auckland Itinerary. Queen Street is the main street of Auckland CBD, it is one long street adjacent to Britomart train station at the bottom. It is also the best place if you want to do some luxury shopping, where Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dior, and many more are located. Also, there are many shops, cafes, and restaurants hiding away in some alleys off Queen Street.

Most of the Queen Street shopping area is covered, so even if it rains it won’t stop you from your shopping spree. And there is also the Event movie cinema, bowling alley, escape rooms, and arcade games along the Queen Street area. 

After you finish strolling around Queen Street, you can then visit Commercial Bay (right next to the H&M building at Britomart). It has got more high-end shops, luxury goods, cafes, and restaurants. It was only built back in 2020 which is really new 🙂

Walk along the Viaduct Harbour 

I live in the city, and this is one of the places I take my walk often. The air feels really good here, and seeing the boats/yachts sailing away is quite relaxing to watch somehow. You can also witness the Wynyard crossing bridge lifting up to let the watercraft pass, it’s nothing super exciting but it’s quite cool if you happen to see it!

Viaduct Harbour offers a variety of restaurants, and bars, it is where many fancy restaurants are located, and if you ask for a good seat you can look out to the harbor. With that in mind, the prices can be quite expensive as well, if you’re on a budget you’d probably want to dine somewhere else.

Be a tourist and visit the landmark- Sky Tower

There’s nothing more touristy than visiting the landmark of Auckland, Sky Tower is the tallest building in New Zealand, and you can go up top to the platform and get a panoramic view of Auckland city and around. 

There are also some thrilling experiences, like the SkyWalk, walking around the outside ring of the structure, the view is breathtaking. Or SkyJump, where you jump off the tallest building in New Zealand. They both are amazing experiences if you’re an adrenaline, thrill seeker, but if you have a fear of heights you might want to skip this!

Drop by K Road and Ponsonby for some good vibes at night and amazing restaurants

Walking Distance from Auckland CBD

If you’re looking for some good vibes and buzzing nights, K Road and Ponsonby are both amazing places to experience that. 

Ponsonby has many good restaurants and bars, from Asian fusion, Italian, Indian, Japanese, Korean, etc. so many cuisine options with different vibes, and buzzing streets. There are also a lot of bars to choose from, all have their own uniqueness so you’ll find one that you love in the end.  It is within walking distance from Auckland CBD, but there’s also a bus if you’re feeling a bit too lazy to walk!

K Road is known for its trendy op shops, bohemian vibe, and LGBT community. Many stylish bars along the road, drag queen shows, gay bars, karaoke bars, etc. It is perfect if you want a good buzzing night out. But do note it is also quite a dodgy area, with a lot of homeless on the street with drugs/alcohol, etc, so be careful of your surroundings and try to stay in a group!

Day 2 Waiheke Island

Ferry- 45 minutes one way

Now you’ve explored a bit of the Auckland City area, it’s time to explore the island off Auckland on the second day of your 3-day Auckland Itinerary! Waiheke Island is only 45 minutes ferry away, and it feels completely different from the CBD. It’s famous for its wineries, beaches, and one of the best day trips from Auckland.

Book your discounted ferry ticket now!

It’s only a 45-minute ferry away from the Downtown Ferry Terminal in Auckland. And once you’ve got to Waiheke. The bus is quite convenient, there is the regular bus or the Hop on Hop off one which takes you to all the touristy places on Waiheke!

Visit a few Wineries in Waiheke

You can’t really say you’ve been to Waiheke without visiting at least one winery. Even if you’re not a big fan of wine, it is still very worth visiting. And if you’re a huge wine lover, you’re in for a treat! The views are usually amazing from the winery, and with good on-site restaurants. 

Depending on what kind of wine you like, there are different vineyards on Waiheke to cater to your taste. French style, Italian style, Spanish Style, etc. Try a few different ones, the Hop on Hop off bus goes to all the wineries, so use that and explore more!

Have some beach fun

Waiheke has a few beaches with white sand, and a clear pristine ocean suitable for a quick swim or stroll on the long white sandy beach. Or just simply sunbathe on the beach, with a drink in your hand or ice cream. It might be too cold to do this in winter, but it is a perfect thing to do in summer!

Some of the most famous beaches are Oneroa Beach, Palm Beach, and Onetangi beach. They all have some really good cafes/ restaurants nearby for you to re-energize after a swim, or sunbathe!

Walk around the Oneroa Village

This is the main village of Waiheke, with many cafes, bars, and restaurants. It is also where the only cinema is on Waiheke. Take your time to explore this cute village!

This part of the 3-day Auckland Itinerary is supposed to be more relaxing, laid back, and just indulge at the moment. Stroll around the island, lie on a beach, and taste some wine; and if you have time do some of the other activities mentioned below! 

Other activities on Waiheke Island

Horse Riding

Zip Lining

Archery, Clay Shooting

Cycling

Art Galleries

Day 3 Explore the nature/ history

Explore the nature and history part of Auckland, it’s a day filled with knowledge and outdoor nature! 

Explore Parnell

Parnell is known for its upscale, sophisticated vibe. It has boutiques, galleries, and many cute cafes and dining options. 

Only around 40 minute walk from Auckland CBD or a few minute’s car ride to Parnell. This part of the town is famous for having high-scale boutique shops, cafes, and some chocolate stores. 

Come here early in the day so you can walk around and find a perfect cafe for you, or you can bring some food and find a perfect picnic spot at the Parnell Rose gardens while enjoying some whiff of roses. It is a perfect place for a date, a family outing, or friends catching up. 

Browse around the boutique shops in Parnell, pay a visit to the Chocolate Boutique, and pick out your favorite chocolates or drinks. 

A small hike up to the Mt Eden Volcano Walk

It is one of the must-do when you visit Auckland, it is an easy walk up; around 1 hour to complete to see the volcanic crater, its unique landscape, and a panoramic view down to the Auckland skyline. 

It is suitable for everyone, if you want to explore the nature part of Auckland but don’t want to drive out too far or do a difficult hike; this Mt Eden Volcano walk is definitely for you! Many locals come here to walk their dogs, jog, or cycle, so expect some crowd especially during the peak months in late Spring, or early Summer!

To get to the starting point of this hike, you can either walk from the Auckland CBD which will take you around 45 minutes, take a bus or drive here. Check out here for more Mt Eden Volcano walk information.

Rangitoto Summit Hike

25 minutes ferry from Auckland CBD to Rangitoto Island

Located on Rangitoto Island

It’s a perfect half-day hike, it is an easy walk and takes much more time than the Mt Eden Volcano walk. If you’re an early bird, this will be suitable for you 🙂 You’d climb through the pohutukawa forest and a lava field to reach the summit. 

You will be rewarded with an Auckland view from afar, and look out onto the Hauraki Gulf, it is the main walk on Rangitoto Island and the most popular walk as well! If you have more time to explore the island, you can also extend your walk to other tracks. But if you only have time for the Summit walk, then it is absolutely worth it as well!

Auckland War Memorial Museum at the Domain

This part of the 3-day Auckland Itinerary is very cultural and full of knowledge. Learn about the history and story of New Zealand and its people and explore the unique collection of Maori and Pacific treasures kept here. If you want to learn about New Zealand culture and gain a deeper understanding of the country, this is where you should visit!

And after your visit to the museum, Auckland Domain is a very nice park to explore, relax or have a picnic there. The Auckland Museum building itself is also very photo-worthy, so snap some photos standing in front of it!

Also, it is very close to Newmarket, which got many restaurants, and a big Westfield Mall for shopping, movies, or some arcade fun! 

Auckland Museum is open all year round except for Christmas Day. Check here for the opening time and more info!

Where to eat in Auckland City for this Auckland Itinerary 

Auckland CBD area

High Street or Lorne Street

If you’re looking for good Asian/Korean food in the CBD, these streets are basically the Asian cuisine area. From Korean BBQ, and Hong Kong Style diners, to dessert/ bubble tea shops. It also connects to Chancery Square, which has more Asian-style restaurants. 

Twelve, Obar, or Pocha

All are located at Chancery Square, which has Korean cuisine with a perfect atmosphere for social drinking, from soju, beer, or soju with beer! The portions are all very big as well, so the more people the better!

Faro or Red Pig

Those are Korean BBQ restaurants, both have good quality meat with nice banchan (Korean side dishes). They have a set BBQ course which is perfect for those always struggling to make a decision or A la carte for those who like to be in control haha!

Tsujiri or Meet Fresh

Japanese and Taiwanese dessert shops on Lorne Street, right by each other. Both have very nice desserts, and drinks and both get very busy, especially on the weekends.

Tsujiri specializes in Matcha, and other Japanese tea drinks, and desserts. I love their Hojicha (Japanese roasted green tea) Ice blended, and the sesame soft serve. 

Meet Fresh specializes in soft taro balls, herbal jelly, and snowflakes ice. They have seasonal items as well, warm dessert soup for winter, and cold refreshing desserts for summer!

Plus Chicken/ Chimac

Both are fried chicken shops

Plus chicken is more like Chinese-style fried chicken with burgers, original or spicy chicken, and some other sides. It doesn’t have any seats, so takeaway only. The portions are big at a very reasonable price.

And Chimac is Korean-style fried chicken, with more flavors like sweet and spicy, sweet soy, wasabi onion, etc. They also have other side dishes, like Korean rice cakes, cheese balls, beer, and more. There is a seating area for dining in!

Auckland Harbour/ Viaduct

This side of the CBD is more elegant, with fancy restaurants and bars. If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, this would be very suitable for you! 

Soul/ Oyster and Chop

They’re both located on the harbor front, and if you get an outdoor seat you’ll have the viaduct harbor as your view. High-end western-style cuisine, with a range of seafood, poultry, etc. 

White & Wongs/ Hello Beasty 

Modern Asian fusion restaurant, whose menu is inspired by a combination of cuisines from Vietnam, Thailand, Korea, Chinese, etc.

Ghost Street

Hidden underneath the Britomart alley, Chinese-inspired food with strong flavors. With its lamb skewers, biang biang pulled noodles, dumplings and so much more variety. I love the atmosphere, it reminds me of back in Asia, the dark secretive underground dining haha.

There are so many more restaurants on the street, so browse around and choose one or two of your favorites!

Ponsonby/ K Road

Azabu/ Inca

They’re both Japanese/Peruvian fusion restaurants, both very well-known and famous in Auckland. 

I’ve personally been to Azabu more times than I can remember, and it never disappoints. YES, it is quite expensive, but it’s definitely worth it (except for some dishes haha). Must order for me are the Tostada, Volcano Sushi rolls, and the Shiitake dumplings, all very unique and taste amazing! Also, don’t forget to order cocktails to complement all the good food 

Dante’s Pizzeria Napoletana

It is ranked 65 in the top 100 pizzerias in the world, so why not give it a try yourself? Variety of pizzas, different flavors, and some other Italian sides, salads, and desserts. It is located in Ponsonby central.

Takara Ramen/ Taiko

Both Japanese restaurants

Takara specializes in ramen as the name suggests, all the ingredients are fresh, raw ingredients from local produce. An authentic taste with a twist of Kiwi flavor, and they cater to different dietary requirements!

Taiko is more of a mix of everything, from sushi, and don to hotpot and teppan dishes, etc. I especially love their wagyu sukiyaki, they are not stingy with the wagyu! I went back a few times, especially for the wagyu.

I have been to all of the restaurants mentioned above, except for a very few. Nonetheless, they are all very good with their own unique twist. There are also many many other restaurants to explore, so check out their menus, and prices and decide which best suit your taste buds. 🙂 And remember to make reservation especially on weekends!

How to get around in Auckland

As I said, this 3-day Auckland Itinerary does not require a car to get around. All the places are within walking distance or very convenient by bus if you stay within Auckland CBD. 

Walking

If you decide to walk to most places, remember to bring some rain gear as it does rain quite often in Auckland, especially during the Winter, Spring months! Also, wear comfortable shoes, there are a lot of hills in Auckland, and you will likely encounter them everywhere you walk!

Watch out, especially for the electric scooters on the street, they are everywhere and often very quiet until they approach you. 

Electric Scooter

You can download the Lime, or Uber app to rent them, they are parked everywhere on the streets. It is very convenient when you’re running late, or just too lazy to keep walking! But be careful when you use them, especially when going downhill you don’t want to lose control and fly off!

Driving

It is a headache driving in Auckland CBD, traffic is usually quite bad, crazy drivers everywhere and road works. And parking is also a hassle, and expensive 🙁 If you only plan to explore the city area and nearby, I wouldn’t recommend renting a car!

Public transport

Overall Auckland’s public transport is not reliable or convenient. But within the Auckland CBD area and its surroundings, it is still passable and convenient! There is a red city-loop bus which only costs around 65 cents, they run from the bottom of Wynyard Quarter to K Road. 

Buy an AT HOP card to easily take the bus or train, remember the buses don’t take cash. Or sell tickets on board anymore, you’d need an AT HOP card to ride. You can still buy a paper ticket for the trains 

Where to stay in Auckland for the 3-day Itinerary

I’d 100% recommend staying in Auckland CBD for this 3-day Itinerary, it is the easiest and most convenient for you to get around, and have the most time exploring the city. 

Budget Accommodation

Haka Lodge- Check availability

Booking.com

Is Located on K Road, a vibrant location close to all the buzzing restaurants and bars in Auckland. With dorm rooms or private room options, catering to different budgets and preferences!

You will have your privacy even in a dorm room, with your own reading light and privacy curtain. Also a lockable storage for each bunk! The design of the hostel is very unique, and clean, and all the shared facilities are kept tidy and very modern 🙂

The Attic Backpackers- Check availability

Booking.com

Located right in the heart of Auckland CBD, a street away from the landmark Sky Tower, and a few minute’s walk down to Queen Street. Also with options of private rooms and dorm rooms!

The hostel has a young, social vibe. The rooms can use some renovation, but the location is hard to beat!

Mid-Range accommodation

Marsden Viaduct Hotel- Check Availability

Booking.com

Located at the harbor front, an amazing location with a mid-range price. Spacious modern rooms with balcony/patio, catering to families, couples, individuals, or business travelers. 

It is such a good steal, some people think they’ve hit a jackpot with this place! The price is unbeatable for a harbourfront location. Note they don’t have parking on site, so it might be expensive trying to find a park, but you really won’t need a car if you’re staying at a location like this! 

Ramada Suites Victoria Street West- Check Availability

Perfect for those who are on a budget but don’t want to stay in hostels. They have rooms with kitchenettes, which most hotels don’t offer, so you can cook your own meals instead of eating out every day! Good location near SkyCity, and right near to the Les Mills gym making it a perfect location for gym lovers out there 🙂

The reception isn’t 24/7 so if you arrive a bit later at night, it will be self-check-in. But the process is simple and efficient. 

Mercure Auckland Queen Street- Check Availability

Booking.com

Located in upper Queen Street, very close to K Road, and with many restaurants/cafes nearby. They have a restaurant, fitness center, and bar on site!

It is located on a hill, so it might be an issue for some guests!

Top star accommodation

The Hotel Britomart- Check Availability

Booking.com

Right in the heart of Britomart, in the center of all the haps in Britomart, with amazing restaurants, bakeries, bars, and clubs within walking distance. Very close to Britomart train station, so perfect for people coming to Auckland for a sports event/concert. 5 stars services, rooms, and facilities! 

An aesthetic hotel that recently opened back in 2020. Great design of the rooms, with good in-room facilities. Also, it has an on-site restaurant, Kingi, which is well-known in Auckland!

So/ Auckland- Check Availability

Booking.com

A 5-star hotel with its very own rooftop bar, and a very stylish, chic, and funky design throughout the whole hotel. It has the wow factor when you first walk into the reception. The view from the rooftop bar is top-notch!

All rooms have a complimentary mini-bar, a Nespresso machine, and a bath. With an indoor pool, on-site spa, restaurant, and bar; you can spend the whole day in this hotel if you want! But you’d want to go out to explore as it’s so convenient to get everywhere from So/ Auckland!

Park Hyatt Auckland- Check Availability

Booking.com

Waterfront hotel in Viaduct Harbour is very new and modern with a touch of nostalgic style 5-star hotel

With Spacious rooms with very well-equipped amenities. On-site outdoor pool, spa services, and a few restaurants catering to different tastes. Diverse staff, with many languages spoken at the hotel!

↓ ↓ Explore more Auckland CBD accommodations below ↓ ↓ 

Booking.com

Incorporate this 3-day Itinerary before or after the 5-day trip up to Northland! Let me know what’s your favorite things to do in Auckland 🙂