The Ultimate Long Weekend Itinerary for exploring the Tasman region

Looking for the perfect long weekend escape? Nelson, nestled at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, is an absolute gem. Known for its stunning coastline, vibrant arts scene, and award-winning wineries, Nelson is a destination that’s easy to explore—especially if you’re traveling by bus, foot, or bike.

Here is some inspiration of what to do over the long weekend:

Day 1: Arrive in Nelson and Explore the City

Nelson is incredibly well-connected, so catching a bus here is a breeze. Once you arrive, the city center is yours to explore on foot. Stroll around Trafalgar Street, where you’ll find plenty of local cafes, boutique shops, and galleries showcasing the region’s thriving art scene.

Must-do activities in Nelson City:

• Nelson Market: Held every Saturday morning, this vibrant market is a hub of local crafts, food, and entertainment. Pick up some handmade souvenirs or sample local artisan foods.
• Explore the Gardens and Botanic Hill: Nelson has a number of stunning parks and reserves, and two of our favourites happen to be located near one another! The Queens Gardens features tranquil water fountains, beautiful sculptures and a Chinese Scholar's Garden in honour of Nelson's sister city, Huangshi, China. Nearby Botanic Hill contains a sculpture that marks the 'Centre of New Zealand', and is well worth the 20 min climb to tick it off your list.
• Visit the country's Oldest Museum: The Nelson Provincial Museum features both a permanent exhibition exploring both the natural and cultural history of the region, as well as seasonal temporary exhibits and is well worth a visit.

For dinner, try one of Nelson’s many seafood restaurants, like the Tides Bar and Eatery or the Urban Oyster Bar and Eatery, featuring fresh catches from the nearby Marlborough Sounds.

Day 2: Adventure in Abel Tasman National Park

No trip to Nelson is complete without a visit to the famous Abel Tasman National Park. The park is renowned for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and scenic walking trails. If you're up for adventure, rent a kayak and paddle along the coastline or take a water taxi to a more remote part of the park.

For those who prefer to stay longer, the Abel Tasman Coastal Track offers hikes ranging from a few hours to multi-day adventures. Even just a few hours of walking will reward you with breathtaking views of the bays and forests.

Day 3: Wine, Bike, and Blenheim

On your final day, hop on a bus to Blenheim, which is about 1 hr 45min  minutes away by bus. This charming town sits at the heart of Marlborough wine country, and it’s the perfect spot for a day of leisurely wine tasting.

Here’s the best part: Blenheim is made for cycling! Many of the vineyards are close together, making it easy to rent a bike and pedal your way around the region’s award-winning wineries. Try local favorites like Cloudy Bay and Saint Clair Family Estate, or opt for a guided bike tour to learn more about the area’s wine-growing history. Cycling between vineyards is a fun, eco-friendly way to soak up the scenery and taste some of the world’s finest wines!

Wrap Up Your Weekend

If you have extra time or feel like venturing further, there are a few nearby towns worth checking out:

• Picton: If you’re taking the ferry to or from the North Island, Picton is the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. It’s a peaceful spot for walking, boat tours, or visiting the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum.
• Kaikoura: If you have an extra day, you can take a bus down to Kaikoura, famous for its whale watching and rugged coastline.

With buses connecting you to all these incredible spots, a long weekend in Nelson is easy, relaxing, and packed with adventure.