Burnside Travel Guide
Christchurch


Popular places to visit

Sumner Beach
The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.

Lyttelton Harbour
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.

Hagley Park
Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.

New Brighton Beach
Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.

University of Canterbury
Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Canterbury during your trip to Christchurch. Visit the shops and charming cafes in this walkable area.

Cathedral Square
You can learn about the history of Christchurch when you stop by Cathedral Square. Visit the cathedral in this walkable area or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Things to do

Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram

Arthur's Pass Full-Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train and Lunch

Christchurch: Orana Wildlife Park Admission

Chairlift Sightseeing Pass at the Christchurch Adventure Park

Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch
Top hotels in Burnside

Airport Gateway Motor Lodge
Everything was brilliant. From the midnight airport pick up to the easy check-in, late check out & yummy breakfast. Thank you for a great stay!
Reviewed on 20 Feb 2026

Commodore Airport Hotel
Clean, quiet, just a quick one night stay with a free shuttle to airport
Reviewed on 18 Feb 2026

Airport Palms Motel
Room and bathroom were spotless, kitchen was fully equipped and organized to the “T”, and the front desk clerk was extremely kind and professional. A great location for a late night flight arrival just 5 minutes door to door.
Reviewed on 16 Feb 2026

Airport Christchurch Motel
Clean
Reviewed on 19 Feb 2026

Airport Delta Motel
Good motel
Reviewed on 17 Feb 2026

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Small room but felt adequate for one person for short stay. Great location, excellent staff. Great breakfast as well.
Reviewed on 20 Feb 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Burnside

Ilam
Ilam is well liked for its bars. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Christchurch area, you might plan a trip to Jellie Park Recreation and Sport Centre or Bush Inn Centre.

Fendalton
Travellers like the historical sites in Fendalton, and Mona Vale is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Upper Riccarton
Upper Riccarton is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Riccarton Road and Bush Inn Centre.

Riccarton
Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.

Christchurch Airport
While Christchurch Airport may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like International Antarctic Centre and Harewood Golf Club.

Merivale
Travellers come to Merivale for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Merivale Mall and Papanui Road while you're in town.

