Dunedin's got a little bit of everything, and I've put together my top picks: where to eat, what to see, where to stay, and day trips that show off the best of this amazing region. I've lived here for years, so these are my recommendations from my ho...
Sections
6
Travel Guides
Activities & Landmarks
Underrated
Food & Drink
Stays
What to Wear
Travel Guides
Everything I'd tell a friend visiting Dunedin for the first time. My go-to guides for planning your trip, seeing the highlights, and finding the good stuff.
My full guide to Dunedin with all the best things to do, where to eat, and how to get around.
Dunedin Travel Guide & Insider Tips — Her Nomad Eyes
If you're here for wildlife, this is the one to read. I break down the best things to do on the Otago Peninsula.
Otago Peninsula Guide — Her Nomad Eyes
I’ve rounded up the best spots for location, comfort, and vibe.
Dunedin Hotel Guide — Her Nomad Eyes
From coastal drives to hidden gems nearby, this guide covers my favourite day trips from Dunedin.
Day Trips from Dunedin (Otago) — Her Nomad Eyes
Activities & Landmarks
These are the spots that make Dunedin special - from wild coastlines to iconic city sights. All places I've explored myself and still love showing people.
Short, dramatic walk down to the cliffs & secret beach. Go at low tide if you can.
Tunnel Beach Walk
On a clear day, this is one of my go-tos. I’ll walk the esplanade, grab a coffee at Long Dog Cafe, and walk along the beach — so good.
St Clair Beach & Esplanade
A quick stop that’s totally worth it. It’s fun to walk up and ridiculously steep at the top.
Baldwin Street (World's Steepest Street)
This scenic rail tour is a great day trip option.
Taieri Gorge Scenic Rail Tour
A gothic revival masterpiece with lovely views & gardens.
Larnach Castle
One of my favourite parts of Dunedin. The drive alone is beautiful, and it’s perfect for a full-day explore. The beaches feel wild and you’ll likely spot seals and sea lions. Head to Taiaroa Heads to see the albatross.
Otago Peninsula
Museum with stories of nature, culture and science (excellent rainy day activity).
Tuhura Otago Museum
A must if you love nature and wildlife. It’s a predator-free sanctuary where you can see native birds in a really peaceful setting. Great walking tracks and a nice escape from the city without going far.
Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Underrated
These are the spots I always recommend when someone wants to see a different side of Dunedin. Quieter, cooler, and full of little surprises you won’t find on every list.
Walking the street art trail is one of my favourite ways to explore the city — you see so much colour and creativity you’d miss if you stuck to the main streets.
Dunedin Street Art Trail
Bit of a drive out to this beach but it feels wild and dramatic, and you often spot seals or sea lions.
Aramoana
This is one of those places even locals forget about. I love walking around the old gun emplacements at Harington Point - it’s a bit eerie, super interesting, and the views over the harbour are incredible.
Harington Point's Old Fortifications
Food & Drink
Where I actually eat and grab coffee in my hometown. From brunch to dinner and everything in between, these are my favourites.
The Farmers Market is open every Saturday Morning at the Railway Station in the city centre.
Otago Farmers Market (Every Saturday Morning)
A wonderful eatery with a central location in the Octagon - so handy!
Commons Eatery
Great coffee & lunch menu!
Vogel St Kitchen
Great spot for delicious food & craft beer. Easy and conveient with carparking.
Emerson's Brewery
The best japanese restaurant in town. I highly recommend.
Jizo Japanese Restaurant
An underrated spot for great coffee and brunch on the Otago Peninsula.
Cove Cafe, Portobello (Otago Peninsula)
Stays
Great places to stay in Dunedin. These are the spots I'd recommend to friends and family.
Boutique, budget, and everything in between - my guide to the best places to stay in Dunedin. Discover charming boutique hotels to practical, budget-friendly options.
Dunedin Hotel Guide — Her Nomad Eyes
An elegant, sophisticated hotel with a central location.
Fable Dunedin - Luxury Boutique Hotel
A lovely boutique art hotel with a central location.
Ebb Luxury Hotel - Boutique Art Hotel
A great affordable, centrally located 3-star hotel.
The Victoria Hotel - Affordable Stay in the City Centre
This motel has self-contained units and a central location.
Amross Motel - Centrally Located Motel
What to Wear
Dunedin weather changes fast, so what you pack really matters. These are the pieces I actually wear living here - practical, layer-friendly, and perfect for coast, city, and wildlife days.
A waterproof rain jacket will be a staple (yes, even in summer). Don't let the rain spoil your plans.
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket (REI)
Perfect for layering on easy walk in the city or at a windy beach.
Warm Fleece Jacket (REI)
These are comfortable, lightweight, and have enough grip for every terrain.
