Book a hotel in Christchurch

Planning your Christchurch adventure? With its captivating blend of historic charm and modern innovation, finding the perfect place to stay is part of the fun. To help you settle in, eDreams has rounded up everything you need to know about accommodation options in the Garden City, ensuring you find the ideal spot for your visit.

Explore Christchurch, a city reborn with a fresh, innovative spirit, where green spaces and creativity define its urban landscape. Known as the ‘Garden City’, it’s celebrated for its expansive parks and botanical beauty, offering a tranquil escape within its dynamic centre. Stroll through the exquisite Christchurch Botanic Gardens, punt along the Avon River, or discover the street art that adorns many of its buildings, a testament to its artistic resurgence.

Beyond its verdant charm, Christchurch is a hub for arts and culture, with numerous galleries, museums, and performance venues. From the Gothic Revival architecture of the Canterbury Museum to the contemporary design of the Cardboard Cathedral, you will find plenty to engage with. Consider staying in the regenerated city centre to be close to the action, or choose accommodation further out for a quieter experience. Whatever your preference, Christchurch offers a welcoming base for your South Island adventure.

The Central Business District (CBD) is Christchurch's most popular area for booking accommodation, offering excellent access to many of the city’s attractions. It's ideal for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the action.

The CBD offers a mix of hotel types, from modern high-rises to boutique guesthouses. Here, you'll be close to the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, the Canterbury Museum, and the tranquil Botanic Gardens. The Avon River meanders through this area, with punt rides available. East of the CBD, the Innovation Precinct has seen significant development and offers contemporary lodging options, often appealing to business travellers and those seeking newer facilities.

South of the CBD, areas like Addington provide a more local feel. Accommodation here often includes motels and self-contained apartments. It's home to the Orange Theory Stadium (formerly AMI Stadium), making it a good choice if you're attending an event. Further west, towards Riccarton, you'll find larger hotels and motels, particularly around Westfield Riccarton shopping centre. This area offers convenient access to Hagley Park and the university precinct.

When booking your hotel, consider transport links. Christchurch has a comprehensive bus network, with the Bus Interchange in the CBD serving as the main hub. Many hotels in the city centre are within walking distance of attractions. For arrivals and departures, Christchurch Airport (CHC) is approximately 6 miles west of the CBD. There are regular shuttle services and public buses that connect the airport directly with the central city, making travel to and from your hotel straightforward.

To secure a cheaper hotel stay in Christchurch, consider travelling during the shoulder seasons of autumn (March-May) or spring (September-November). You will often find lower room rates and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. Booking your accommodation well in advance, especially if your trip coincides with major events like the New Zealand Agricultural Show in November, can also lead to significant savings. Looking for hotels slightly outside the immediate city centre, perhaps closer to areas like Sumner Beach or Akaroa for a day trip, can also present more budget-friendly options, though transport costs should be factored in.

Another tip for Christchurch is to explore accommodation near the city's innovative Re:START Mall area, where temporary structures and pop-up businesses flourished after the 2011 earthquake. Hotels in the vicinity often provide excellent value, allowing you to be close to the regenerated city centre without the premium price tag. Comparing prices across different booking dates and choosing properties that offer free cancellation can also give you flexibility and potentially better deals.

Book your next Christchurch hotel stay with eDreams today.