Dubrovnik is a mixture of marble streets lined with baroque buildings and beautiful renaissance sculptures. The monumental walls and towers which surround Dubrovnik are the most impressive example of this form of fortification found in the Adriatic region. Don’t be fooled though Dubrovnik offers much more than just a historical journey into the past, it offers visitors a network of beaches to relax on and a collection of trendy bars, cafes and restaurants to entertain visitors day and night.

The best time to visit Dubrovnik is during the summer season (May – October) but generally it has a typical Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot dry summers. A recent poll found that out of the 23 top luxury hotels in Croatia, 13 of these were located in Dubrovnik. The Online Hotel Company lets you compare over 133 Hotels in Dubrovnik so you can be sure to find the best hotels and the most competitive prices, with a selection of hotels for every budget.

Top things to do in Dubrovnik

Farmers Market

A great way to spend a morning in Dubrovnik is visiting the local farmers market found in Gundelic Square. When you arrive you will see a sea of red umbrellas hiding Locals gathering to sell anything from superb olive oils, home made brandies and herbal remedies!

Scale the Town Walls

This is one of Dubrovnik’s most popular tourist trips and an essential part of any visit to the region. The trip can take about an hour or so to complete – The vistas on both the seaside and the town-side are beautiful and the bird’s eye view will give you a insight into all of the key tourist attractions and appreciate fully the beauty and attraction of Dubrovnik.

Day trip to Lopud

Lopud is an island situated about 30 minutes by boat from Dubrovnik. Tickets for the boat are available to buy at the old city port and cost around (£10/ $15). The island is famous for having one of the best beaches in Dubrovnik with the Sunj beach being the pick. The beaches are fine, white sand with a backdrop of lush, green hills. Lopud also has a good selection of cafes, restaurants and hotels if you want to spend longer period on the island.

Trip on the Cable Car

If you get the chance take the Dubrovnik cable car and be amazed with the breathtaking views of the Old City and crystal clear Adriatic Sea, especially just before sunset. There is a restaurant at the top with plenty of seating to enjoy some food or cocktails whilst taking in the stunning views. The cable car is reasonably priced and the ride to the top is a fairly quick one. If you have time there is a brilliant 30 minute walk back down using the zig zag pathway. The path is a little rocky in places but the views are spectacular and worth the effort.

Dubrovnik Old Town

The Old town is a beautiful stone area within the historic city walls – listed as a world heritage site the old town is one of the most popular tourist sites in Dubrovnik. Spend hours wandering the small back streets and have a drink, a meal or a shop – The shops can be quite expensive so you may well want to just window shop. The area can get quite busy especially in peak periods so its always nice to go early in the morning or late at night when the majority of tourists have disappeared.

Houses of Parliament

Located in the Palace of Westminster, this is where the country’s parliament has been meeting since the 13th century. Both the building and the government have gone through several incarnations since that time, but through all these changes it has remained an iconic seat of power. The House of Commons and the House of Lords still meet here today to make decisions affecting the whole country, and guided tours are available to show you the chambers where these weighty discussions take place. There are many fascinating stories about the events that have unfolded in these very rooms, determining the course of Britain’s history, so for anyone interested in history and politics this is an essential attraction.

The Tower of London

This ancient castle was founded during the Norman Conquest of England, led by William the Conqueror, and has since formed an integral part of London’s political history. Originally a royal palace, it has also been used as an armoury and a menagerie, but most significantly as a prison. Royal prisoners were kept here, and you’ll still hear stories of gruesome interrogations and ghostly sightings. Executions often took place on nearby Tower Hill, which these days is a much more pleasant elevated platform overlooking the Thames. It’s worth making some time on your study tour to cross over to have a look at that hill. As well as offering a fantastic view of the Tower, it is home to an impressive sundial, which incorporates a pictorial history of London in the form of relief sculptures all around its base. Today, the Tower still plays a significant role by housing the Crown Jewels and providing informative guided historical tours.

The Globe Theatre

History is far from dead in London. A study tour in Britain’s capital might mean looking at ancient monuments and exploring the places where famous figures once walked, but it is also an opportunity to experience popular entertainment the medieval way. The original Globe was the theatre to which audiences at the turn of the 17th century flocked to catch the latest Shakespeare. The reconstructed Globe on the very same site upholds that tradition today. Here plays are performed on the Elizabethan-style ‘thrust’ stage, and are the closest modern performances you’ll find to the original productions. You can choose to emulate Shakespeare’s richer patrons, by sitting in the three-layered circular wall of seats, or the ‘groundlings’ who would stand around the stage and could get quite rowdy. In keeping with the original theatre’s lively character, actors have been known to push through, chat with, or tease the audience.

These, of course, are just a few of London’s best historical attractions – the rest of the city is waiting, with countless more corners of Britain’s history to be uncovered.

Article by – Simon Prendergast works for FHT

The Yarra river seperates the city and Melbourne has great combination of modern buildings and victorian architecture to keep tourists fascinated. If you have enough time then it is recommended that you visit some of Melbournes suburbs as each one has a distinctive feel and history. Areas such as leafy Parkville have the university whilst the docklands is a new waterside development all of which have things to keep you occupied and capture the Melbourne vibe.

Melbourne’s has very changeable weather so can be very difficult to predict. Although the best time to visit is between September to March duing the summer period although during certain spells the weather can get very hot. Winter in Melbourne can often be wet and grey although Melbourne has so much to offer you really can enjoy yourself year round.

The Online Hotel Company compares over 378 Hotel Deals in Melbourne so you’re sure to find the best deal that suits your stay, you can even compare for budget or luxury hotels using our advanced Hotel search program.

Top things to do in Melbourne

Melbourne Gaol

This is a great attraction in Melbourne and worth a visit on any trip. The Melbourne Gaol experience lets you wander around Melbourne old prison which was famous for its hangings and harrowing stories. Visitors can look at the old prison cells and even see the face masks used on Prisoners, including Australia’s most notorious fugitive Ned Kelly. The attraction does give night tours which make the experience even more fun. Depending on the day of week you can even visit the magistrates court opposite for a victorian re-enactment of a trial.

Attend a Sporting Event

Melbourne is famed for its great sporting occasions and if you get the change go to an event and see the passion of the locals it will be a great way to feel Melbournes sporting spirit. You can catch an aussie rules match at the MCG or watch some Australian open tennis. If your there during the summer try and catch a Cricket match.

Great Ocean Road

If you want to get out of Melbourne and visit the local area then we highly recommend hiring a car and driving along the Great Ocean Road one of the worlds most famous and scenic coastal roads in the world. This stretch of road is known for long secluded beaches offering some of Australias best surf and the local towns are are packed with cafes, bars and hotels. The Great Ocean Road is also surrounded bu national parks perfect fro those looking to get out of the urban city and into Australia’s bush. One highlight of the route is the Twelve apostles which are limestone pillars which have been seperated from the mainland by the surf and tide and are being reduced in size all the time.

Melbourne Aquarium

If you looking for somewhere to spend a morning then we recommend visiting the Melbourne Aquarium which is situated right on the Yarra River in Central Melbourne. The Aquarium tends to focus on those aquatic fish from the south ocean and has attractions such as Penguins, sharks, stingrays and turtles.

The Centre of Auckland is dominated by the 328 metre Sky Tower which is the southern Hemisphere’s tallest building and if you’re feeling really brave you can even jump off the side. The two best views of Auckland can found from Mount Eden and One Tree Hill, both of which are volcanic cones that were once the sites of fortified Maori villages.

Auckland’s laidback lifestyle means it’s a great place to recharge the batteries whether you want to see the variety of scenic landscapes or just experience the buzz of the city centre. Auckland’s positioning means it’s a great gateway to discover all that New Zealand has to offer and if you have time try to take in the Bay of Islands. The Islands are situated just north of Auckland and are one of new Zealand’s most popular destinations. The town of Paihia which is the central hub of these Islands has a wealth of significant historical sites to explore and a vast collection of outdoor activity experiences.

The best time to visit Auckland is during the summer season (November – February) but with its variety of attractions and entertainment it really is a great place to visit all year round. A great way to travel round the city centre is using the free city bus which operates a small circuit covering most of central Auckland and key destinations in the city and runs every 10 minutes. Auckland’s temperate climate, easy access to the coast and variety of activities earn the city consistent top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys. The Online Hotel Company lets you compare over 130 Hotels in Auckland so you can be sure to find the best hotels and the most competitive prices.

Top things to do

Auckland Sky Tower

The Sky Tower in Auckland has become the icon of the city, most notably to outsiders. A trip to the observation deck to see 360 degree views of Auckland is a must when visiting the city. If you are feeling really brave then you can even jump of from the top.

Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is a great way to spend a few hours in Auckland. With exhibits of New Zealand Fauna the Zoo is more advanced than many in thw World. If you have children then this is a must see on any visit

Auckland Art Gallery

The Auckland Art Gallery is a great way to see some on new Zealand’s taste of culture. This pretty structure overlooks central Auckland from Albert Park, the art gallery is a great way to spend a few hours in Auckland.

Coast to Coast Tour

This is a great tour to experience west Aucklands countryside attractions, including historic farms and Homesteads. Hosted by NZ and Maori operators, you can explore the region. Visits include food, rainforest tours, craft shopping, wine and honey tasting. This is a great way to understand the history and culture of Auckland.

Rugby Match

Rugby is the national sport in New Zealand and a must if you get the chance to visit Eden Park and see a match. Depending on the time of year you can either see the famous All Blacks or watch the local Auckland Blues in Action.

Cairns is the centre of Australia’s thriving fishing industry and you’ll be sure to get some of the best seafood Australia has to offer during your visit. Cairns positioning in the tropical far north means it gets very humid during the summer months. The best times to visit is from May to August when temperatures are lower and with less likelyhood of experiencing cyclone or monsoon activity. Although Cairns is situated on the sea often travellers are not advised to go in the waters as they are home to some of Australias more dangerous aquatic species. The Great Barrier Reef which sits just offshore is the number one destination within the region, it is one of the worlds most recognisable attractions – Trips and tours run daily from the centre of Cairns to the reef where you can dive or just take in this world renowned site.

Cairns also captures Australia’s cultural diversity and this is encapsulated by the vibrant art scene found in the region. A collection of exhibitions, galleries and communities of established and emerging artists are located in Cairns – This art reflects both modern australia and also its aborignial origins. The Online Hotel Company compares over 170 Hotels in Cairns so you’re sure to find the best deal that suits your stay, you can even compare for budget or luxury hotels using our advanced Hotel search program.

Top Things to do.

Great Barrier Reef

Running for more than 2000km along the coast of Queensland the Barrier Reef is one of the earths largest natural sites – its so large it can even be seen from Space. Brimming with tropical fish and organisms no visit to Australia would be complete without visiting this region. Tours leave daily and allow you to visit the reef up close, the most popular way being scuba diving. Most of the tours allow complete beginners to dive the reef after they are given training or alternatively many glass bottom boats allow tourists to take in the natural wonder without getting wet.

Daintree National Park

Found 3 hours north of Cairns Daintree is a great place to take in Australias northern rainforests. The park consists of lowland and upland tropical rainforests with a vast collection of flora and fauna. Daintree is also home to some of Australia diverse wildlife including the saltwater crocodile. Whilst visiting the region you can experience lots of rainforest bushwalking tours with Aboriginal guides or take a boat ride down Daintree River and Coopers Creek

Kuranda

A great Day trip is to visit Kuranda which is a small town close to Cairns and gets very busy during peak times. Once in Kuranda there is plenty of attractions to keep you occupied – one which we recommend is the Kuranda Birdworld which is a great way to see some of Australia’s most diverse birdlife. Also in the town is the Kuranda Koala Gardens which is a small zoo housing not only Koalas but other native species such as kangaroos, snakes and crocodiles

Cairns Art Galleries

Cairns is a very cultural city with an abundance of art galleries to experience. Most of the galleries are free to visit so we strongly recommend if you get the chance go to visit one of them. The most popular one is the Cairns regional gallery which is found in a two storey heritage building and hosts exhibitions of fine arts from major australian and international collections . Visitors can expect to see a collection which covers historical and contemporary art including the work of Aboriginal artists. The Gallery exhibits the work of artists based throughout the tropical north so you can really get a flavour of northern Queensland.

Cairns Skydive

If you want to see Cairns in a more extreme way then we recommend skydiving from 14,000ft. The 30-60 seconds of freefall and then a gentle parachute descent will give you great views of the region and offer a truly exhiliarating experience. Although Skydiving is offered throughout Australia due to the competition you can find it cheapest here if your brave enough.

Darwin has a great historical heritage to discover with Aboriginal people having lived in the region for thousands of years, fishing, hunting and foraging for survival. The discovery of Gold in the Pine Creek Region brought many investors and workers to the region from throughout Australia and further afield. During WW2 Darwin formed the frontline of the allied action in the Pacific and was bombed over 50 times during the period, the only Australian city to experience attack. Many museums exist in the city which give visitors an understanding of Darwins varied history so be sure to check them out when you visit.

The small population of Darwin is made up of over 50 nationalities giving it a unique multicultural feel in everyday life – indeed Australian National Trust has recognised the city as a multicultural icon of national significance. This diversity is seen in every day Darwin life with many varied markets, bars, restaurants and festivals occurring every day in the center. Darwin’s location is at the top end of Australia and the region is famed for its ancient landscapes, aboriginal culture and unique mix of dry plains and wetlands.

Darwin is often used as a gateway to the Kakadu national park, an ancient area of significant beauty, surrounded by waterfalls, rainforests and the oldest collection of aboriginal rock art in the world. The Online Hotel Company compares over 55 Hotels in Darwin so you’re sure to find the best deal that suits your stay, you can even compare for budget or luxury hotels using our advanced Hotel search program.

Top Things to do

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is over 100 Sq km of diverse landscape found in the north east corner of the Northern Territory and the largest national park found in Australia. This diverse landscape has the world’s largest collection of aboriginal art sites and the region is made up of woodlands, forests, hills and floodplains. The region is famous for its collection of natural scenery and wildlife in the area and the park has been recognised as a world heritage site. Kakadu’s dramatic landscape, wildlife and aboriginal heritage mean that the region gets over 250,000 visits every year with most people using Darwin as a gateway. Beware the region is home to large saltwater crocodiles and they can be seen at Yellow Water and East alligator River and have been responsible for a number of fatal attacks when tourists have strayed from the recommended areas.

Mindil Beach Sunset Market

This Sunset Market in Darwin is popular amongst locals and tourists and runs from May to October. This is where Darwin’s vast and varied multicultural population shows of its heritage. You’ll find vast collections of chocolates, meats, vegetarian foods and other food stalls. The bonus to this market is once you have wandered around and taken it all in you can find a spot on the beach and watch the magnificent sunset.

World War II Oil Storage Tunnels

This is a great way to spend a morning in Darwin and get an understand how locals coped during the war period. Located beneath the cliffs of Darwin City, your guided tour will provide you information on how the tunnels worked during war time. You can also view the photographic displays which have been set up to give visitors a glimpse of war time Darwin.

Crocodylus Park

Crocodylus Park is a great place to come face to face with Crocodiles and has been built on over 35 years of crocodile research and conservation. Situated just 5 minutes drive from Darwin airport , this park houses thousands of crocodiles as well as species of birds, lizards and big cats. The park is home to many of the crocodiles found by conservationists throughout the region and offers daily tours, including actual crocodile feeding.

Although Airlie Beach is located on the beach it is not advised to swim in this area due to the number of marine stingers which populate the waters surrounding the shores. The local government have built a medium sized swimming lagoon on the shore which offers not only swimming facilities but also parkland to sunbath on. This area can get quite busy during peak times especially from the vast number of backpackers who descend upon the town.

The Online Hotel Company compares over 40 Hotels in Airlie Beach so you’re sure to find the best deal that suits your stay, you can even compare for budget or luxury hotels using our advanced Hotel search program.

Top Things to do

Sail Whitsunday Islands

The main reason people visit Airlie Beach is as a gateway to the remarkable Whitsunday Islands. The port at Airlie Beach offers every conceivable way to see the islands and allows even novice sailors the chance to sail around. The Whitsunday Islands are characterised by turquoise blue waters, lush islands and sandy beaches. The most popular and scenic beaches in the Whitsundays is Whitehaven Beach which offers powdery sand and crystal clear blue waters. Most sailing trips take in Whitehaven beach and you can even camp here overnight with a camp site run by the National Parks Service offering basic toilet facilities. Diving in the waters surrounding the Whitsundays is possible but most trips will offer you wetsuits which must be worn on account of the high jellyfish and stinger populations in the region. There is no doubt that any trip to Airlie Beach wouldn’t be complete without visiting one of Australia’s most popular tourist attractions.

Cedar Creek Falls

A popular way to spend a few hours near Airlie Beach is to visit Cedar Creek Falls which is just outside the town. The Creek had a stunning waterfall and water pool which is great for swimming. The turquoise water also has areas for a picnic so you can enjoy your time relaxing and taking in the stunning setting.

Vic Hislops Shark Expo

A popular attraction in the centre of Airlie Beach is this Great white shark expo. All the memoribilia is collected by this self proclaimed shark expert, although Vis Hislops is centainly no conservationalist. The display is famous as the exhibition is home to the worlds largest known shark jaw. Some videos will show how the expert goes about catching his prey and although a very small centre its an interesting place to visit if you have a few hours free.

Christchurch lies one third of the way down the South Islands east coast, just north of Banks Peninsula. Christchurch is a flat city which enabled settlers to base the city design on a grid of organised streets and tree lined avenues. The flat terrain means many people get around on bicycles and special bicycle lanes have been established to make this a great way of discovering Christchurch.

Christchurch is one of the best places to see a local festival as it has by far the busiest schedule of festivals of any New Zealand City. Festivals include the world buskers festival, the festival of Romance, the garden festival and the Christchurch arts festival. On the way into the city and only 5 minutes drive from the airport, Willow bank Wildlife Park has the only viewing area not behind glass for the national icon bird, the Kiwi. You can join a guided tour through the bush-like setting and encounter a variety of rare birds native to New Zealand.

As the South island’s major international gateway, Christchurch is a great starting and finishing point for discovering everything New Zealand’s south Island has to offer. The Online Hotel Company compares over 160 Hotels in Christchurch so you’re sure to find the best deal that suits your stay, you can even compare for budget or luxury hotels using our advanced Hotel search program.

Top things to do

Gondola

Take the express shuttle bus from Cathedral Square and take a ride on the Christchurch Gondola. The Gondola takes you to the summit of the Port Hills and gives you great views over the city and surrounding landscape. Also included in your entry fee is the heritage time tunnel and outdoor nature walk. Remember the best time to visit is on a clear day to ensure you get the best pictures.

Lyttelton Farmers Market

Lyttleton Farmers Market can be found at the Lyttelton School grounds every saturday morning, 10-1pm. The Market is an authentic farmers market which offers fresh local and seasonal foods. Food is not always the cheapest but you can pick up a variety of goods including fruit, vegetables, bread, coffee, cheeses and preserves. Even if your not looking to buy anything this is a great place to hear some live music and take in the locals.

Botanic Gardens

A visit to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens is a must on any visit to the City. This attraction symbolises why Christchurch is known as the ‘Garden City’ and offers over 30 hectares of exotic plants and trees native to the region. Situated on Rolleston Avenue these gardens also let you take in the Avon River and the popular Hagley Park.

Christchurch Cathedral

No other attraction symbolises Christchurch more than the Cathedral. Situated in the central square this landmark is a great picture opportunity for visitors. Visitors also have an opportunity to climb the bell tower during the day. The square usually has activites going on during the day such as food and craft stalls and in the evening it sometimes turns into a music venue.

Summit Road

If you want to take in Christchurch’s surroundings then you are well advised to go along the Summit road. The road which you can drive to, bike to, or get the bus to passes through the Port Hills which separate Christchurch from Lyttelton Harbour. The road offers breathtaking views of the local area so remember to pack the camera.

Queenstown was originally settled by Europeans and Chinese settlers in the 1860’s as a gold mining and farming town but its modern tourist features were put in place in the 1940’s when the area became a commercial skiing region. Since then the area has transformed into a world class tourist attraction and known around the world for its adventurous side. During Hign Season Queenstown can become a party town with pubs and clubs open till late so if you want a quiet nights sleep you might be advised to stay slightly out of town. Use our location search when looking for hotels in Queentown and you can find the perfect hotel outside centre of town.

Queenstown is a year round tourist venue, In the winter time you will be able to ski on the majestic slopes and by summer you can be water skiing on Lake Wakatipu. Don’t be put off if you adventure is not for you, Queenstown offers much more than just an adventurers paradise. Infact Queenstown is a sophisticated holiday resort and a great place to simply relax and wind down. Just outside of Queenstown you can drive north to Glenorchy which passes up Lake Wakatipu and is known as one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand or visit the Gibbston Wine region just outside Queenstown.

Queenstown also has a vibrant but small town centre, with a plethora of lively bars, cafes and boutique shops. You can be sure that whatever way you turn you will be greeted by a beautiful view of the surrounding mountain or lake scenery. The Online Hotel Company compares over 90 Hotels in Queenstown so you’re sure to find the best deal that suits your stay, you can even compare for budget or luxury hotels using our advanced Hotel search program.

Top Things to do

Queenstown Wine Tour

If your looking for a more serene activity to do in Queenstown then you would do well to try out some of Queenstowns premier vineyards. Wineries you could visit inclue Gibbston Valley, Peregrine Winery, Waitiri Creek Vineyards, Chard Farm Vineyard and Amisfield Cellars at Lake Hayes. You can either visit these wineries yourself or join one of the many touring groups that leave Queenstown everyday.

Queenstown Skyline Gondola

No visit to Queenstown would be complete without taking a trip to the top of Bobs Peak via the Skyline Gondola. The summit lets you take in majestic landscape views across the lake, mountain range and beyond to Cecil and water peaks. You can enjoy a drink and a snack in the cafe at the top as well a more formal meal in the restaurant. At the top you also have the chance to in the thrilling Skyline luge, an exhilarating ride suitable for all ages, sizes and abilities.

Queenstown Bungy Jumping

The Queenstown area houses three bungy sites, The main jump over the city starts at 400m, that’s 1300ft! and you can choose to jump normally, or swing over the township, night or day. Also you can travel to the Kawarau suspension Bridge which is located 13 miles outside Queenstown beyond historic Arrowtown and 43 meters above the crystal waters of the Kawarau River. Kawarau bungy is the world’s first bridge Bungy established in November 1988 and has been the home of Bungy ever since. If you’ve never jumped off a bridge before, this is the place to start. Kawarau Bridge Bungy is also the only Bungy in Queenstown where you can choose to bob above the water, touch it, or be fully immersed.

Shotover River: Jet Boat Ride

The Shotover River is a short ten minute drive from Queenstown and the setting is in a dramatic rocky canyon with a ribbon of tourquoise blue water that in itself is breathtaking – its often billed as the world’s most exciting Jet Boat Ride. The jet boats used on the Shotover ride are designed specifically for this venue. Each boat carries up to 14 passengers. They are powered by twin engines powered by V6 Buick engines each thrusting over 800 liters of water per second. They can operate in water as low as 10cm in depth, so you can get very close to the edge of the river banks and skim across rocks, The ride includes many 360 degree spins, water spraying everywhere as you careen up and down the Shotover Canyon. You will come so close to rocks, canyon walls, trees and other boats making this ride a definite must in Queenstown!

Dart River Funyak Safari

If you’re looking for an adventure around Queenstown but not the bungee jumping, skydiving type then the Dart River Funyak safari is a good choice. You will get taken on a jet boat ride up the Dart River into a desolate area where much of Lord of the Rings was filmed. You get off the jet boat and everyone uses a pump to air up your own “funyak”…think inflatable canoe. You can then canoe downstream for 2 hours taking in small canyons and caves before stopping for lunch. This is a better option than just a jet boat tour that lasts only 10 minutes and more relaxing than a rafting tour. This tour will let you take in the local scenery and beautiful scenery this part the world offers.

Although sometimes covered in grey cloud its mystery lies in its dramatic scenery, historical buildings and internationally recognised wildlife reserves, where some of the world’s rarest wildlife can be viewed in its natural habitats. Dunedin’s links to its Scottish heritage makes it often referred to as the ‘Edinburgh of the south’ and this Scottish history is recognised by the statue of Poet Robbie Burns which stands in the centre of Dunedin.

Dunedin also claims to have the steepest street in the world ‘Baldwin Street’. If you visiting during the annual Chocolate festival you can see locals roll 10,000+ Jaffa’s down the street in celebration of this fact. If you are feeling extremely active then you can hire a bike in the city centre and try to cycle to the top of the street. The cycle is rewarding but many fail to get to the top and eventually have to walk the remaining distance. Other activities in Dunedin also include swimming or surfing the beaches. Be warned you might need to wear a wetsuit as the waters surrounding Dunedin are constantly cold even in the summer time. For those not brave enough to sample the waters you can still swim in the heated saltwater pool adjacent to the the main beach. The Online Hotel Company compares over 50 Hotels in Dunedin so you’re sure to find the best deal that suits your stay, you can even compare for budget or luxury hotels using our advanced Hotel search program.

Top Things to do

Penguins and Albatross Centre

Penguin Place is a privately funded penguin reserve which specialises in the preservation of the Yellow-Eyed Penguin. The trenches and hides mean that you can view this almost extinct species close-up in their natural environment without interfering with, or disturbing them. Remember to dress up warm and wear walking shoes as some of the terrain is a bit rocky. They are shy creatures but do actually come out of the sea before dusk and so are very easy to spot. The albatross centre has fantastic displays and you can either take a tour ($30) or go to the cliff tops and watch these fantastic birds soaring through the skies. Binoculars are recommended for both trips, but are not a must.

Larnach Castle Gardens

There are nine different gardens, something for everyone – rockeries, perennial borders, deciduous azalea beds, ‘forests’, succulents and everything between. Scattered throughout are rhododendrons, a species that thrives in this climate. The differing gardens seamlessly merge from one to another; each contained yet still connected to its neighbour. Where possible, the gardens have the magnificent backdrop of the Otago Peninsula, always there but always different.

Whale Watching Tour

One of the most popular fun things to do in Dunedin New Zealand is to explore its marine life. The best way to experience the marine life, it’s by arranging a whale watching tour with one of the tour companies there. A typical whale watching tour takes you out in the Otago Peninsula and allows you to get close to seals as well as swimming with dolphins and whales.

Otago Museum

The Otago museum is a must see when you visit Dunedin. The exhibits and collections are exceptionally well presented and there’s something for everybody. Highlights within the Museum include The large-scale model ships in the Maritime Gallery, the collection of ships’ bells and the accompanying history of the Union Steamship Company. The Nature Gallery, with its digest of NZ animals, birds and insects, The Animal Attic, a refurbished 19th-century animal exhibit of immense historical interest and Southern Land, which is a biorama of the discovery, history and life in Southern NZ. All these great attractions and more make the museum worth a visit.