Author: Denise Sheppard

Rotorua is a city that should be, and often is, on every New Zealand North Island itinerary. It’s home to some of New Zealand’s most impressive geothermal spots, it’s rich in Māori culture and has a reputation for being the North Island’s adrenaline hotspot.

You could easily spend a week in Rotorua exploring and soaking up the best of the area, but if you’re tight on time, this 2-day Rotorua itinerary covers all the must-see spots and unmissable experiences, and also includes a few suggestions of what you can do if you have extra time in the city.

Why Visit Rotorua?

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in New Zealand, but Rotorua has a bit of something for everyone, and has plenty of the highlights you can’t easily find elsewhere on the North Island. Think huge geysers, stunning redwood forests, bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs, rich Māori culture, parks, expansive lakes – yes, plural!– adrenaline-fuelled activities…the list really does goes on! There’s a reason Rotorua is popular with both tourists and kiwis.

Where is Rotorua?

Rotorua’s central location on New Zealand’s North Island makes it a perfect base to explore the region’s thermal attractions and adventure activities. It’s a geothermal wonderland conveniently located to reach from most places on the island, making it perfect for a weekend getaway or a stop on a New Zealand road trip.

Sitting inland on the edge of the Bay of Plenty region, it’s approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Auckland, making it an easy weekend break from the northern city. From the coastal hits of Mount Maunganui and Tauranga, Rotorua is just over an hour’s drive inland, offering a change from the coastal beauty to volcanic landscapes.

And if you’re coming from Wellington, the nation’s capital, you can expect a 6-hour drive or a short 1-hour flight. It is doable to drive from Wellington to Rotorua in a day, but that journey is an experience in itself with the stunning scenery as you pass through and you should factor in an extra day to your weekend trip.

How Long to Spend in Rotorua?

Two days in Rotorua is enough to see the best of the city, but if you can spare extra time then 3 days in Rotorua would be perfect to see even more. If you don’t like to pack up and move around a lot, Rotorua would also be a great place to base yourself to visit nearby hotspots like Taupō and Mount Maunganui, though for the latter I’d definitely recommend spending a few days there too.

Weekend in Rotorua Itinerary

A weekend in Rotorua can be whatever you want it to be, but if you’re making the most of your time and trying to see as much as possible then it’s unlikely to be a relaxing, calming break away. Instead, you’ll want to cram as much in for the time you have, using time in other places with cheaper accommodation to recharge and reset.

Day 1

Welcome to Rotorua, the geothermal city with a slight eggy whiff you’ll likely notice as you start exploring. Will you ever get used to it? Debatable. For your first day in the city, get your first taste of the things that make Rotorua such a popular choice – geothermal highlights, nature and Māori experiences!

Wai-O-Tapu

Wai-O-Tapu, one of Rotorua’s most famous geothermal parks, is a must-visit for its vibrant hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and steaming craters. Known as the Thermal Wonderland, highlights include the Champagne Pool, with its striking orange and turquoise colours, the florescent green Devil’s Bath, and the Lady Knox Geyser, which can reach up to 20 metres high. It’s a geyser that is set off daily at 10:15am, making Wai-O-Tapu a great morning activity.

To wander around the various geothermal pools, there are several walking trails that’ll take you between 30 and 90 minutes to wander, depending on which routes you opt for and how often you stop to take photos.

To get the full Wai-O-Tapu experience, plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours there.

Redwoods
Visiting the Redwoods in Rotorua – Whakarewarewa Forest – is a must whether you’re a nature lover or not. You’ll find gorgeous scenery, plenty of walking trails, and adventure activities.

The expansive forest is home to huge, towering Californian Redwoods, some of which are over 100 years old. It’s quite a sight to see and has such a peaceful and eerily inviting atmosphere. Harry Potter fans might get some Forbidden Forest vibes…

A highlight of any visit to Whakarewarewa Forest is the Redwoods Treewalk, where visitors can walk along a series of suspension bridges high among the trees, offering a unique perspective both during the day and at night when the forest is beautifully illuminated. It’s become quite the hit on social media, and for good reason!

For the thrill-seekers among us, mountain biking trails catering to all skill levels up to world class wind through the forest.

Entry to the forest is free and there’s plenty of parking available though this may be at a cost – check the signs depending where you park. If you want to enjoy the Redwoods Treewalk, there’s an entrance fee for that, but you can wander around the woods themselves for free if you’re on a budget or not a fan of heights.

Māori Experience

Many visitors to New Zealand want to soak up the Māori culture, see a haka or enjoy a hāngī. There are numerous options in Rotorua, but it’s one of best locations to catch a show or cultural experience. For your first day in Rotorua, ending with one of the many shows is a great way to round the day off and really get stuck into the culture of New Zealand.

Day 2

Kiwi Hatchery
The National Kiwi Hatchery in Rotorua is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and pretty much anyone wanting to catch a glimpse of the elusive kiwi bird. This place offers a rare chance to see New Zealand’s beloved kiwi up close without having to scamper around in the dark, while also contributing to the conservation efforts.

Located at Rainbow Springs, this world-leading conservation facility is dedicated to hatching and raising endangered kiwi chicks before releasing them into the wild. You’ll be able to take a guided tour and learn about the important kiwi conservation efforts, see baby kiwis in specially designed incubation rooms, and, if you’re really lucky, see a newly hatched chick!

The hatchery plays a crucial role in New Zealand’s ‘Operation Nest Egg’ program, which has successfully released hundreds of kiwis back into their natural habitat. You’ll need about an hour for a visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery, making it an easy and educational addition to your Rotorua itinerary. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to support kiwi conservation while seeing these iconic birds up close.

Get an Adrenaline Hit!
Rotorua has a reputation as the adrenaline capital of New Zealand’s North Island, and it’s well deserved!

If you’re after a thrill, Rotorua has you covered with plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities to get your heart racing! Start with the Skyline Rotorua Luge, where you’ll zoom downhill on a gravity-powered cart with epic views over the city – it’s fun for all ages and surprisingly addictive. For a serious rush, head to Velocity Valley and try the Shweeb Racer, Freefall Xtreme, or even a giant swing that’ll have you flying through the air at wild speeds.

Want to really test your nerves? Zorbing has gained popularity worldwide but was born in New Zealand and is a Rotorua classic – you’ll roll down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball, laughing – and probably screaming – all the way. Or get wet with a race down the rapids with Rotorua’s whitewater rafting, at one point shooting 7 metres down the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall!

With so many options, and not far from the city centre, Rotorua is an adventure playground where you can go full throttle or mix a bit of thrill into your relaxing weekend.

Government Gardens
In the heart of Rotorua, the Government Gardens is a spacious green area where history, culture, and natural beauty all come together. The park sits on the edge of Lake Rotorua and was originally gifted to the Crown by local Māori in the late 1800s. You’ll find manicured lawns, colourful flower beds, and bubbling geothermal spots – the sulphur smell is quite strong around here.

The stunning Bath House building in the grounds once housed therapeutic mineral baths and now holds the Rotorua Museum – currently closed for renovations, but still worth admiring from the outside. Don’t miss the elegant Blue Baths nearby either, it’s a heritage building with its own unique Spanish charm, though also closed due to structural issues.

Whether you’re into gardens, a bit of history, or just a scenic stroll, the Government Gardens is a must-do for a relaxing break between Rotorua’s adrenaline and geothermal adventures.

Polynesian Spa
By this point, you’ll have been on your feet a lot and some down time to just relax and soak up the views is on the cards. The Polynesian Spa is located in Rotorua’s city centre, just next to the lake and is the perfect choice for a late afternoon moment of zen. With 28 mineral-rich pools fed by two natural springs, it offers a unique blend of alkaline and acidic water pools, perfect for soothing muscles, rejuvenating the skin and giving a warm place to just relax.

There are several packages available at the Polynesian Spa, but the general Pavilion Pools package gives you access to 8 soaking pools that are a mix of temperatures and acidic/alkaline, plus a reflexology walk which winds along the lakefront. It’s the most popular and affordable package at the Polynesian Spa,

If you’re looking to really indulge in luxury the Deluxe Lake Spa package offers entry to 5 pools in fancier surroundings than the Pavilion Pools, plus you’ll find heated recliners and will be given a towel and toiletries as part of your entry ticket.

Want to visit both the Pavilion Pools and the Deluxe Lake Spa pools? Lucky for you they have a ‘Double Dipper’ ticket offering a discounted combination ticket for both sets of pools. As well as these, there are family friendly pools, private pools looking out over the lake and a huge range of spa treatments and packages.

Māori Experience
With so many amazing opportunities to experience a bit of Māori culture, if you weren’t able to fit in a show or hāngī dinner yesterday, today is the perfect time to do that…or to check out a different Māori experience!

Got More Time? Here Are Some Other Things to do in Rotorua!

Secret hot tubs
If you’re after a private, relaxing soak surrounded by nature, the Secret Spot Hot Tubs in Rotorua is the place for you. Tucked away in the lush forest near the Redwoods, this ‘hidden gem’ offers cedar hot tubs filled with fresh, spring-fed water. Each tub is tucked into its own little nook for privacy, with views of ferns, trees and even a stream running nearby for that extra level of zen.

You can order drinks straight to your tub – yes, seriously! – making it perfect for a romantic date or chill catch-up with friends. The only complaint? You can’t soak away forever as you’re given a 45-minute slot.

Kuirau Park
Kuirau Park, located in central Rotorua, is a free public garden with geothermal features, offering bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and relaxing foot baths. It’s the only public geothermal park in New Zealand, making it an accessible, and budget friendly, spot to experience Rotorua’s volcanic activity.

You can stroll along boardwalks to view a number of boiling hot springs and craters while enjoying the park’s lush greenery. You’ll also find picnic areas, a playground, and a Saturday morning market with local crafts and food.

Taupō
Just one hour away, Taupō is the perfect day trip from Rotorua. The drive there is scenic, passing a lot of tourist and geothermal hotspots if you want to break up the journey.

A day in Taupō is pure adventure and relaxation rolled into one! Start your morning with a heart-pounding jet boat ride to the base of Huka Falls or a bungee jump. Then, cruise past the stunning Māori rock carvings on a scenic lake boat tour. After a lakeside lunch, unwind with a soothing soak at Wairakei Terraces, where the mineral pools warm you from the inside out and offer the perfect balance to the adrenaline filled morning.

If you’re more of a relaxed traveller, you can view Huka Falls from the comfort of a walkway at the top of the falls, or stop in at the glass blowing exhibition just outside of Taupō.

I personally think a weekend in Taupō is needed to really enjoy the town, but if you can only spare a day then it’s still worth seeing!

Lakes
Aside from Rotorua Lake, there are also a number of other lakes in the area that are perfect to venture out to if you have the time.

Rotorua is surrounded by stunning lakes, each offering something unique. Of course there’s Lake Rotorua, the largest, which is perfect for scenic cruises or lakeside walks. Just 15 minutes away, Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and picnics, with crystal-clear water and a relaxed vibe. There’s a small car park on the stretch of land between Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokakahi (Green Lake) where you can see both lakes within a short walk.

Further down the road, Lake Tarawera is a must for nature lovers, giving you the chance to hike to the natural hot water beach or take a boat cruise. It’s also a great one to visit if you go to the Buried Village museum as it refers to the lake a lot. For a quieter escape, Lake Okareka offers peaceful walking tracks and birdwatching.

You’ll find over a dozen lakes in the region, so Rotorua really is a dream for lake-hopping adventures.

The Buried Village
A 20-minute drive outside of Rotorua, the Buried Village is a small museum with grounds to explore focusing on the landscape-changing eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886. The museum is really interesting and informative, covering the experience of people who were living in the area at the time of the eruption and giving a real understanding of what they went through and how it affected the landscape.

The grounds are the second part of the museum experience, and while it’s very peaceful to wander around and see the remains of the various buildings, the scenery is probably more of a highlight. You’re given a map and there’s a trail to follow, and if you have the chance to venture down to the waterfall then you’ll be treated to one of the trail highlights.

Things to Prebook

If there’s anything you’re 100% sure you want to visit, book it in advance. There are usually tickets available on the day for most activities, though maybe not at the time that would suit your schedule. If you book in advance you may also find discounted prices through the bookme website or app. There’s no difference to your experience, it’s just a discounted ticket.

Accommodation across New Zealand is usually available last minute, but Rotorua is one place where you may find that everything is booked up or crazy expensive, especially during peak times. Book as far in advance as you can to make sure you have nice, affordable accommodation for your weekend in Rotorua.

Rotorua on a Budget

Rotorua isn’t the cheapest place to visit in New Zealand. Not only is the accommodation on the pricier side but there are so many activities to do that the costs quickly build up. Don’t worry though, there are a few budget friendly alternatives that mean you don’t have to miss out if you don’t want to rinse your travel budget.

Top tips:

• Book accommodation with free parking or stay outside of the city centre and find a reasonably priced parking option for when you’re in the city centre
• Use the bookme website to find discounted entry tickets for attractions you want to visit
• Go to budget-friendly alternate versions of the big sights

How to Get Around

If you’re visiting the central sights like the lake, Polynesian Spa Pools, city centre and Kuirau park you can easily walk between them. However, if you’re venturing further out around the city then you’ll likely need a car or can jump on the bus.

The bus routes in Rotorua have good coverage, and you can find routes on the Bay Bus website as well as a handy journey planner! If you’ll be in Rotorua for a while you can get a Bee card for cheaper rates (there’s an initial $5 cost for the card) but it’s possible to pay cash for the bus too. If you’ll be getting the bus a lot during the day, ask for a day saver rate.

If you’re exploring by car, parking is readily available at the sights and around the city, just be sure to check for parking restrictions or whether you need to pay. You’ll see these on a blue sign by where you park, and it’ll include a number (how many minutes you can stay) or a dollar sign showing you need to pay to park there.

How to Get to Rotorua

Getting to Rotorua in New Zealand is really easy and convenient with several transport options to suit whichever travel preference you have.

By Car
Driving to Rotorua is probably the easiest way if you already have access to a vehicle. It offers you the greatest flexibility and the chance to explore the scenic countryside en route…there’ll be plenty of places to stop and admire the scenery!

From Auckland to Rotorua the journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. If you’re travelling from Mount Maunganui, it’s just over an hour’s drive and from Wellington to Rotorua, the drive takes approximately 6 hours.

By Plane
Rotorua has a regional airport with direct flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. A flight from Auckland takes around 45 minutes, while Wellington flights take about 1 hour 15 minutes. From Rotorua Airport to the city centre is just 10 minutes with shuttles, taxis, and rental cars readily available.

By Bus
Several bus companies, including InterCity, connect Rotorua to major cities. From Auckland, buses take around 4 hours, offering a comfortable and affordable option if you don’t want to drive. Services also run from Wellington and other North Island locations. Coming in by bus means you’ll have an opportunity to relax and enjoy the passing landscapes.

Kiwi Experience
For backpackers and adventure travellers, Kiwi Experience offers a flexible hop-on-hop-off bus service to Rotorua. This iconic travel network includes stops at key attractions and activities, allowing you to explore geothermal wonders, Māori culture, and thrilling adventures at your own pace. It’s a fun, social way to experience Rotorua and beyond.

Where to Stay in Rotorua

You’ve got a huge range of choice when it comes to accommodation in Rotorua, although you’ll want to book as far in advance as you can as it can get booked up quickly!

Rotorua Accommodation Booking Tips

• Book as far in advance as possible: Accommodation in Rotorua gets booked up quickly and is one of the few places I’ve visited where booking last minute hasn’t always been possible.
• Check the parking situation: If you’re staying in the city centre, some places won’t include free parking with your accommodation and it ends up adding quite a bit to your accommodation costs & daily stress trying to find parking. Be sure to check the small print!
• Explore options outside of the city centre: One of the great things about Rotorua is that a lot of the things you’ll want to see and do are outside of the immediate city centre, so you don’t necessarily need to stay right in the middle of the city.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, affordable stay with hot springs, Terume Hot Spring Resort is the place for you! It’s basic accommodation a short walk from the city centre, but it comes complete with hot springs to relax in after a hard day sightseeing and exploring.

My personal favourite while travelling New Zealand is the Haka House chain of hostels. Haka House Rotorua is well located, with parking at an additional cost, and a range of dorms and private rooms. One of my favourite things about Haka House hostels is that they’re not often ‘party hostels’ and the age range of visitors is quite wide, with families, older visitors, solo travellers and groups of people all choosing to stay in the comfortable accommodation.

Haka House don’t offer social events so if you’re travelling and hoping to meet people, it’s best to opt for a hostel with social events on offer too.

When to Visit Rotorua

The best time to visit Rotorua depends on your interests, but spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are ideal for an ideal time to spend a weekend in Rotorua. During these months you’ll find milder weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes. Spring is perfect for enjoying Rotorua’s gardens and parks as flowers bloom, while autumn welcomes the stunning foliage around the lakes and geothermal areas.

Summer (December to February) is the peak tourist season, with warm temperatures ideal for outdoor activities like mountain biking, ziplining, or lake adventures. However, good weather brings the crowds and popular attractions can be busy, so early bookings are recommended to secure tickets and also secure a better deal on accommodation. It is possible to get last minute deals during this time, but you’ll be very limited on what’s available and it’ll cost more than average.

Winter (June to August) offers a quieter, cozy experience. Crisp, colder mornings and steaming geothermal pools create a magical atmosphere, and it’s a great time to enjoy spa treatments or soak in the famous Polynesian Spa.

Regardless of the season, Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, cultural experiences, and adventure activities make it a year-round destination so you can’t go far wrong with whenever you choose to visit.

Is Rotorua Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, yes! There’s a reason Rotorua is so popular, and whether you’re a New Zealand local or visiting from overseas there are a lot of things to see and do here that you won’t be able to do elsewhere in New Zealand, or do so easily at least! A weekend in Rotorua is the perfect introduction to the city, but you could easily spend longer in the area soaking up the gorgeous scenery at a slower pace.

Solo Travel in Rotorua

I visited Rotorua as a solo traveller, and met other people in the hostel also travelling alone so there’s definitely the chance to meet up with other travellers if you want to. There are a number of hostels with social spaces, but you can also meet people on organised trips to events around Rotorua such as rafting down the river and visiting Māori culture experiences.

However, if you’re like me and happy to just go it alone and see who you meet along the way, then Rotorua is definitely a solo travel friendly city! The people are friendly and in general I felt safe walking around during the day and night, though maybe not at night by myself as the streets can be quite quiet and some areas don’t have a great reputation for safety.

Extend Your Trip – Pair Rotorua With Another City!

If you’ve got the time or are road tripping around New Zealand, there are so many amazing places near to Rotorua to consider pairing up with your trip! The closest and most obvious are Taupō and Tauranga. Taupō is like the quieter, more relaxed version of Rotorua, with a stunning lake complete with mountain backdrop. You’ll find a lovely boardwalk to explore, plus the impressive Huka Falls and Wairakei Terraces. It’s the base most people choose when undertaking the Tongariro Crossing, so there’s a good traveller presence in the town.

Tauranga is an hour-ish away, and a larger city that is home to the gorgeous Mount Maunganui. If you’re after chill beach vibes, want to learn to surf or just watch people splashing about with a board this is the place for you. The sunsets from one side are the perfect way to start the day, and walk a couple of blocks in the other direction to end the day with breathtaking sunsets over the harbour. There’s a real chilled vibe in Mount Maunganui, and a popular walking spot for loops around or to the top of the Mount.

Venturing further afield, you’ll also find Hamilton, the Coromandel Peninsula, Auckland, Napier and Taranaki region. Each of these places have tons to see and do with their own personality and character to keep you interested. And of course, plenty of gorgeous scenery to explore!

There are some European sights that are well known across the world, and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa is among the greats that grace the postcards. To be able to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa and see it in all its wonky glory is really cool, but you can go one step further and climb to the top of the popular landmark.

Climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of those experiences that’s even more interesting than you initially think. Taking pride of place in the heart of Pisa, this iconic tower’s unique slant gives a quirky twist to every step you take up the spiral staircase.

It’s a mix of history, confusion over climbing stairs but feeling like you’re on the flat, and stunning panoramic views that make climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa truly unforgettable.

History of the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Pisa’s famous tower started life back in 1173. Originally designed to be a freestanding bell tower for the adjacent Pisa Cathedral, it quickly became apparent that something wasn’t quite right. By the time they reached the third storey, the ground beneath the tower had started to sink, causing the start of that now-famous lean. They stopped building, and it took 100 years for the land to settle and before work restarted.

Fun fact: Pisa was named in 600BC from the Greek for ‘marshy land’. Explains why the land might not be great for huge towers!

Work on the tower was completed in 1372, and although the tower continued to tilt, it did so at a much slower rate than it had previously. It’s believed that the full weight of the building may have helped, but it got to a point in 1835 where they realised some intervention was required to stabilise the building. The result was a dashing marble base which replaced a lot of the muddy soil that had been sat under the tower.

The new base helped massively, but the government had to yet again request help to stabilise the tower in 1964. In an ever-ongoing challenge, the tower was closed in 1990 as a safety measure before reopening in 2001 after its latest restructuring project.

During this time, the tower, along with the other buildings in Cathedral Square, was declared Patrimony of the Humanity by UNESCO.

Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa

If you’re tight on time then being able to just see the tower is pretty cool. It’s architecturally gorgeous and feels like a mind bend that it’s structurally safe. But if you have the time and ability to climb the tower, it’s absolutely worth doing!

There’s a very strange feeling when you make your way up the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The stairs wind around the inside of the tower, and you’ll find that when you are climbing the stairs going with the lean of the tower it takes very little effort and actually feels like the steps are tiny. When climbing against the lean of the tower the steps feel much steeper than usual and it’s harder to climb than a normal set of stairs.

Once at the top of the tower, you can walk around the rooftop. Again, it feels strange as though you are sometimes walking uphill and other times that you are walking downhill even though in your mind you expect to be flat. Be sure to check out the slant of the bells that you would usually expect to sit centrally in the gaps built for them.

Although the climb and walking around feel a little…wonky…it’s definitely an experience and the views from the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa make the climb very worthwhile. On a clear day you can see for miles, and it’s also very amusing to see all the people on the ground in the iconic push pose as if they are holding up the tower. From the top of the tower though it just looks like hundreds of people lining up waiting for a high five!

If you have mobility issues or aren’t able to climb a lot of steps with minimal breaks, this probably isn’t an activity for you. The staircase wasn’t built for masses of people, hence the timeslots to control capacity, and as such it’s not the easiest climb to just be able to take at your own leisurely pace without affecting other people. The stairs are also worn where they’ve been climbed for hundreds of years, so attention is definitely required as you go up and down.

Buy Tickets

Tickets for the Leaning Tower of Pisa are allocated to a time slot to control the number of people in the tower at one time. You can buy a ticket for just the tower and cathedral, or for a small amount more buy a combo ticket for all of the 5 main sights in Pisa; the Tower, Baptistery, Cathedral, Cemetery, Opera del Duomo and Sinopie Museum.

It is recommended to buy your ticket in advance to ensure there’s a time slot to climb the tower. All other sites on the ticket can be visited as and when you like in the day. When you buy your ticket, make sure there’s the option to book a time slot at the same time otherwise your ticket isn’t worth much at the tower.

Tickets are available from the ticket office if you haven’t bought them in advance, subject to availability.

Please note: children under 8 are not permitted to climb the tower. Visitors aged 8-18 require an adult to accompany them.

Best Time to Climb the Tower

Pisa is a popular day trip destination, meaning the middle hours of the day are the busiest once all the tour buses and day trippers have arrived. If you’re visiting for the day, it’s best to get to Pisa as early as possible and book the earliest slot to climb the tower. The tower will be quieter at this time, your time slot is less likely to be full because you’ll be there before the day trippers and you’re then free to enjoy the rest of your day without clock watching.

If you can’t get an early slot, then timing your climb with the sun going down is the next best option. The views from the top of the tower are gorgeous over the Tuscan countryside, and seeing that with a beautiful sunset would be just breathtaking.

While early or late slots are preferable to avoid the day tripper crowds, the reality is that you may be visiting Pisa on a day trip and are limited on times. In this case, it’d be best to book the middle of the day slot to avoid any delays you may encounter getting to Pisa – if you miss your slot you may not be able to reschedule.

Take the Iconic Photos

Have you even been to Pisa if you didn’t get a photo of you trying to hold the tower up?

Chances are you’ll easily find where to take these photos due to the crowds, but make your way to Piazza del Duomo (the road just south of the complex) to have a photo as if you’re holding the tower up, or to Via Cardinale Pietro Maffi to take a photo looking like you’re trying to blow the tower over.

Height of the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The tower height varies depending which side you measure – y’know, what with the lean and everything – but the 8 floors rise up a maximum height of 55.86m. If you’re planning to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa, you’ll have over 250 steps to tackle before you get to the top.

To put those 250+ steps into context, if you climb the stairs to the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, that’s 327 steps. If you’ve just been to Florence and climbed the bell tower there, that’s a staggering 414 steps, so Pisa’s tower will be easy in comparison!

The step count for Pisa’s tower vary depending on who you ask, but that’s because there are the internal staircase stairs, but there are also steps to get into the tower, and additional steps when you get to the top to get out and see the views from the very highest point of the tower. It’s best to expect about 300 steps in total.

What Else to Do in Pisa?

Pisa is a compact city and you can easily see the highlights in a couple of hours. The main sights visitors flock to the city for are all in one square, Piazza dei Miracoli. You’ll find Pisa Cathedral alongside the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Baptistry, Sinopie Museum and the ornate cemetery. They’re easy to see quickly from outside, or combination tickets are available to go inside them all.

Away from the tourist sites in Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa has a number of other spots that are worth checking out. There’s Iglesia de Santa Maria della Spina on the banks of the River Arno, a small church but worth popping by if you’re walking from the train station to Piazza del Miracoli. The view from the river as you cross by the church is also really pretty and worth checking out on a sunny day.

Fans of art will enjoy walking past Tuttomondo, a wall mural by Keith Haring completed in 1989. It’s on the back of a church, yet another to have a look at if you’re a fan of religious buildings.

Aside from these few additional sights, there’s not a huge amount of ‘things to see’ in Pisa, but it’s a lovely city to wander and check out the cafes and charmingly colourful streets.

If you have a full day in Pisa and see everything in the morning, there’s a thermal spa in a town close by that you could spend the afternoon in. You’ll need to catch an additional train to get to Bagni di Pisa, but it’s one of the few thermal spas in Europe, and is housed in a grand hotel. You’ll find multiple spa pools to explore in the sleepy little town, just be sure not to miss the not-so-frequent train running back to Pisa!

Where is the Leaning Tower of Pisa?

Would you believe it…Pisa!

Pisa is a small city in Italy, in the gorgeous Tuscany region of the north. It’s about an hour from Florence, but has its own airport and multiple train stations. Once you’re in Pisa, it’s fairly easy to find the tower because it’s usually a case of ‘follow the crowds’ but if you’re lucky enough to miss the crowds then just head for Piazza del Duomo. You’ll spot the tower soon enough once there!

How to Get There

Train: Pisa train station is easily accessible from Florence and Rome, with those cities both being large transport hubs offering access to other cities in Italy. The most popular route by train is Florence to Pisa (Firenze SMN to Pisa Centrale) taking about 1hr 20 minutes.

Organised day trip: Pisa is a popular day trip choice, so you’ll find a wide range of organised day trips. Many will pair Pisa with one or more other cities, and while it can be tempting to squeeze in as much as possible in one day, you’ll want to make sure you have at least a couple of hours in Pisa to see the main sights. If you have all day to spend in Pisa, it’s a lovely city to have a wander and explore the sleepy streets.

Tower of Pisa Links with Galileo

As if the Leaning Tower of Pisa isn’t famous enough, it has links with the Italian scientist, Galileo Galilei. He studied at Padua University, made great strides in Physics and is believed to have held an experiment at the tower to prove his theory that objects of different weights fall at the same speed.

I’ll be honest, this isn’t a science site for a reason but other people do explain the experiment very well. But, it is quite interesting and adds an extra point of interest to the tower, so fun for us non-sciencey people too!

Tucked away in the heart of the Tyrol region in Austria, Innsbruck is a gem of a city perfect for travellers who love to explore smaller cities while being surrounded by jaw-dropping sights of a mountain range. It’s got the charming architecture the region is known for, plenty of nature just a stone’s throw from the city centre and has amazing travel links to nearby European countries.

With just one day in Innsbruck, you can enjoy a morning exploring the city centre highlights, tuck in to lunch by the river before catching the funicular up into the mountains to soak up the stunning panoramic views.

Where is Innsbruck?

Sitting in the western stretch of Austria, Innsbruck is the capital city of the Tyrol region. Despite being surrounded by mountains, it has fantastic travel connections by train to nearby cities in Italy, Germany and Switzerland, as well as having its own airport offering connections to further afield.

Top Things to Do in Innsbruck in One Day

The Innsbruck sightseeing list isn’t super extensive, but this is a city of quality over quantity. With just one day in Innsbruck, you’ll be able to see a lot as you wander around the compact city, but here are a few of the top things to do in Innsbruck, and sights you want to make sure you don’t miss!

Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)
This is arguably Innsbruck’s most famous landmark, and it’s a must see for any visitor. There’s a fair bit of history behind the golden roof, but the structure was initially commissioned by Emperor Maximilian I to celebrate his second marriage in the 16th century. They would use the balcony under the golden roof when they were in Innsbruck so they could observe festivities and events that would take place in the square out front.

The roof itself is stunning, decked out with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles that look golden, hence the name. But the structure under the roof is also well worth checking out, with sculptures and murals covering the front of what was intended as a kind of ‘royal box’.

If you look closely, you might even spot the Emperor who commissioned the structure. He’s on there twice, once with his first wife and again with his second wife whose wedding was the reason for the golden roof being built.

You might notice that the carvings are in excellent condition, especially given that they date back to the 16th Century. These are actually replicas, but you can see the originals in the nearby Tyrolean State Museum.

Old Town
Innsbruck Old Town – the altstadt – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is one of the most charming and well-preserved old towns in Europe. It’s an easy tick off for anyone looking to visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, and it’s a lovely area of the city to explore with the narrow streets, colourful buildings, and plenty of history.

City Tower
Starting life in 1450 as an observation tower for guards to watch over Innsbruck, announce the time and keep an eye out for danger, the city tower still stands proud in Innsbruck city centre. Gone are the days when the lower levels would be serve as a prison, instead the 51-metre tall tower now gives tourists an opportunity to soak up panoramic views of Innsbruck.

Visitors these days are still able to climb the 148 steps to the viewing deck – it’s an old building, there’s no lift – which has some of, if not the best views in the city. From the narrow viewing deck that wraps around the city tower, you’ll have panoramic views of Innsbruck and the gorgeous mountain range that surrounds the city.

Historic Buildings
Austria has three buildings which are considered to be ‘culturally significant’ and one of them just happens to be in Innsbruck!

The Hofburg, a former imperial palace of the Habsburgs (a big deal family in Austria dating back to 1361!), is a massive complex. It started life in 1460 and was extended and expanded over the following centuries. It includes defensive structures, a giant hall, a chapel…all the usual things you’d find in a home, right? These days it still has pride of place in the centre of Innsbruck and is home to a number of different museums areas that allow visitors to wander through and soak up the history of the building.

Aside from the Hofburg, Innsbruck has a wide range of gorgeous and colourful architecture to admire as you wander around the city. Much of it you’ll see in the old town and along the river banks.

Hungerburgbahn Funicular

Fun to say, fun to ride! This funicular takes you up the side of the mountain to Hungerburg in just 8 minutes, where visitors are treated to stunning, panoramic views of Innsbruck. From Hungerburg, you can also go for a hike in the Nordkette mountains or catch the cable car further up to Nordkette a spot of skiing.

The funicular stations are eye-catching with their modern design, and are recent additions to the line that has been in use since 1906. It had a bit of a revamp and redesign in 2007 which caused a bit of controversy in the city, but still serves as an efficient way for people to get up and down the mountain.

Although the Hungerburgbahn funicular runs from Innsbruck to Hungerburg, it does also stop along the way for anyone wishing to visit the Alpenzoo without having to trek up the mountain. If you’re not mountain-trekking levels of fit, it’s nice to catch the funicular up and walk back down, with a walk of about 45 minutes from Hungerburg to Innsbruck city centre.

Nordkette Mountain
The Nordkette mountains are a great place to go hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying the views. There are trails for all levels of experience, and the views from the top are just amazing.

To get to the top of Nordkette, you need to catch the Hungerburgbahn funicular and then the cable car further up to Seegruben and then another to Hafelekar.

Museums
For such a small city, Innsbruck actually has a number of museums to check out. With just one day in Innsbruck though, time is limited so you’ll want to make sure you pick one that aligns most with your interests.

Traditional museums come in the form of the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum. This museum is home to a collection of, you guessed it, traditional Tyrolean folk art! You’ll also be treated to displays of traditional costumes, furniture, and household objects. Innsbruck is also home to the Swarovski museum which is a mix of interesting displays and of course a very sparkly, somewhat pricier version of a gift shop.

For something more modern, check out Experience Tirol or AUDIOVERSUM. They immersive, interactive and just more fun to visit than your standard museum!

Alpenzoo
How often do you get the chance to visit a zoo on the side of a mountain? Alpenzoo has a unique location just outside of Innsbruck on the incline of one of the mountains, accessible either by foot (if you’re a fan of uphill walks) or you can jump on the Hungerburgbahn funicular which stops as the zoo on it’s ascent to Hungerburg.

This zoo is home to over 150 species of animals from the Alps, including bears, wolves, ibex and reptiles. Great for families, it’s an interesting insight into the wildlife of the region.

Bergisel Ski Jump
Just a short 10-minute drive outside Innsbruck city centre, the Bergisel Ski Jump is a popular tourist destination. It was the site of the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics, and just in case you’re not looking to test out your Olympic skiing skills, it also offers visitors stunning panoramic views of Innsbruck.

Markthalle – Food Market
There’s something about visiting a market when you’re overseas that is just fun. And it’s no different in Innsbruck. If you have time to spare or are looking to pick up a bite for lunch, Markthalle in Innsbruck is an interesting mix of small stalls and farmers market. It’s not huge, but definitely big enough to make it worth a visit.

Innsbruck Cathedral
There are a handful of churches in Innsbruck to check out, but if you’ve got time for just one then it should be Dom St. Jakob. It’s the cathedral in Innsbruck and very centrally located making it easy to pop by for a visit. You won’t find the huge breathtaking size of cathedral that you’d get in large cities, but the modest Dom St. Jakob is still worth a visit for its impressive decor.

Is One Day in Innsbruck Enough?

You can easily spend one day in Innsbruck and see a lot of the city. It’s very compact and if you’re staying elsewhere and want to take a day trip to Innsbruck then it’s the perfect choice!

With such amazing travel connections to other cities and countries, it’s a great choice for anyone city hopping through Europe to spend a short time exploring before leaving and moving on to the next stop.

Ultimately it really comes down to your travel style. If you want to cram in as much as you can to your trip, then one day in Innsbruck is fine. If you have time to spare, then a relaxed couple of days in Innsbruck is the perfect opportunity to recharge and enjoy slow travel before moving on to another city.

Accommodation isn’t cheap in Innsbruck and for budget travellers there aren’t many hostels or cheaper options to stay so arriving in the morning and leaving in the evening would be ideal to stay in a cheaper city. If you’ve got luggage with you there is limited luggage storage in Innsbruck train station, or facilities nearby that cost a little more if the station luggage storage is full.

Innsbruck City Card: Is it Worth it?

If you’re spending just one day in Innsbruck, it might not seem very worthwhile to buy a city card, especially if you’re travelling on a budget. The Innsbruck Card has a few duration options, but the 24-hour card comes in at €69*.

This doesn’t initially seem worth it if you’re visiting Innsbruck on a budget, but to work out if the card is really worth it, you’ll need to see what you plan to do for the day. There are a number of great sights mentioned above included in the card, plus city transport and the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus.

If you plan to take the Hungerberg funicular, visit the city tower, Swarovski museum, Golden Roof (museum, not just the outside) and Bergisel stadium then you’ll be saving money. There’s a handy savings calculator on the Innsbruck Card site to help you work out if it’s worth getting.

How to Get to Innsbruck

By plane: The nearest airport to Innsbruck is…Innsbruck Airport! The airport is well connected across Europe and it’s a short transfer from Innsbruck airport into the city centre with just 5 minutes by taxi or about 10 minutes on the bus.

By train: Travelling by train in the Alps is a stunning experience, with the trains snaking through the mountain range, sometimes even venturing into a tunnel through the mountains themselves. Innsbruck is well connected to other cities in Austria, Germany and Italy, so if you’re within a reasonable travel distance the train is a great and very comfortable choice!

By bus: Innsbruck is covered by the old favourite, Flixbus. As with the other modes of transport, travelling by bus may not be quick in this region but you’ll have gorgeous views (when not in the tunnels…) and you can reach other European countries with relative ease from Innsbruck.

How to Get Around Innsbruck

Being such a compact city, it’s more than easy to get around Innsbruck by foot. If you’re looking to explore a little further around the city or are tight on time, you can hire a bike to get about.

To visit Hungerburg and Nordkette, you’ll likely want to jump on the funicular which gets you from Innsbruck city centre to Hungerburg in about 8 minutes. From there it’s another cable car further up the mountain, but Hungerburg is a great compromise to get panoramic views of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains while also remembering you have just one day in Innsbruck and giving you enough time to explore the rest of the city.

When to Visit

Innsbruck is a great city to visit year round. While the weather can vary quite a lot, the different seasons show Innsbruck in different ways. Visiting Innsbruck in summer obviously means you’ll have warmer weather, though the chance of a rainy day is higher.

A winter trip in Innsbruck will mean colder weather, but hello cute hat season! Plus, you’ll get to see the mountains in all their snowy glory. There’s less chance of rain in the colder months and you can indulge in the winter sports that the region offers.

Got Longer Than a Day? Pair It!

The beauty of Innsbruck is its amazing location. Not only does it have an airport for easy international access, it is also really conveniently connected by rail. Although part of the journey will cut through the mountains (as in through tunnels) the majority of it does wind through the gorgeous Alps regardless of which direction you travel.

If you’re looking to explore more of Austria, the obvious choices are to jump on a train to Salzburg or Vienna. From Innsbruck to Salzburg by train it’s under 2 hours, while Innsbruck to Vienna by train is about 4 hours 20 mins.

Heading north from Innsbruck, the German city of Munich is an easy choice. It’s just under 2 hours by train from Innsbruck to Munich, and once in Munich there’s plenty to fill a weekend in the city, or you can use it as a hub for travelling further afield as it also has excellent transport connections.

Keeping the international theme, Italy is within easy reach of Innsbruck, and you can jump on a train to my personal favourite, Verona, in 4 hours 45 mins. Verona is a on the east to west trainline that connects Milan and Venice, meaning you can explore both cities, or smaller cities like Padua and Bergamo on day trips from Verona.

There are so many options that you really cannot be blamed for using it as an excuse for a multi-city trip to make the most of the amazing location!

Some cities have certain buildings or landmarks that are instantly recognisable and remind you of certain places. This is certainly the case with the cube houses in Rotterdam, with their unique architecture and signature yellow decor.

Rotterdam is a city that suffered greatly in the Second World War. After most of the historic city centre was flattened in the Rotterdam Blitz, it gave the city the space and opportunity to rebuild and lead the way with modern and interesting architecture. One of the iconic buildings that puts Rotterdam on the map for many are the yellow cube houses.

Built by Piet Blom over thirty years ago, the residential development is similar to one he completed in nearby Helmond. The challenge was to build homes while being economical with the space, leading to the homes being above the usual ground floor level. Inspired by nature, the complex represents a forest, with each structure like a tree.

Primarily a residential community, there are 38 houses and 2 ‘super cubes’. The cube houses drew so much attention from people that Kijk-Kubus opened up as a museum style show-home. Anyone curious enough now has the opportunity to step inside and see for themselves what’s held inside the elusive cube houses.

A Tour Inside the Cube Houses

Ever wondered what it looks like inside the cube houses in Rotterdam?

Stepping in from the street, a steep flight of stairs greets you. This is the ‘tree trunk’ of the house, and also serves as a storage area. Up a tight staircase to the first floor and the main living area opens up, made up of a lounge and kitchen with dining area.

From the outside, you wonder how they manage to fit a whole home in there, but it’s surprisingly spacious inside and the space is well used. The central walls are vertical, while the exterior walls are obviously slanted and it’s interesting to see how the furniture fits.

Heading up another floor, there are more rooms, used in the show home as a bedroom and study. Growing up in a home with square rooms and straight walls, as many of us probably have, it’s interesting to see how the different angles affect the feel of the room.

Another flight of steps up – how are they fitting all these floors in?! – and light floods a small room in the top tip of the cube from the large windows that aren’t present in the rest of the house. It’s a lovely, warm space that feels like a conservatory, and although all of the furniture is somewhat dated, it actually feels futuristic. From here, the views of the other cube houses really gives the feel of being on the treetops.

Cube House Rotterdam Tickets

The tour of the show home is an interesting insight into how these structures can be a home, and worth the small entrance fee. You can buy tickets on the door for €3,50*, and there are discounts for students, 65+, and for holders of the Rotterdam Welcome Card. If you have a Rotterdam Pas, entry is free!