This 7 day Alpine Express journey showcases the very best of New Zealand’s South Island, from the garden city of Christchurch to the dramatic West Coast glaciers and alpine lakes. Travelling independently by coach and scenic rail, you’ll enjoy a seamless experience through ever-changing landscapes. Highlights include the TranzAlpine train, Franz Josef Glacier, and the vibrant resort town of Queenstown .
You’ll spend three nights in Queenstown, perfectly placed to explore its adventure-filled atmosphere or relax by Lake Wakatipu. The tour also includes a memorable Milford Sound experience, where towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls create one of New Zealand’s most iconic scenes. With visits to Aoraki/Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo, this itinerary delivers a well-paced mix of natural beauty, comfort, and unforgettable scenery.
Inclusions
Accommodation for 6 nights staying in Hotel 4 star
Electronic Travel Guide and In-Country Support App
The Visitor Promise - Cultural Learning Course
Private Transfer Christchurch International Airport to Christchurch Accommodation
Shared Transfer from Christchurch CBD Accommodation to Christchurch Train Station
TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Christchurch to Greymouth
Greymouth Train Station to Franz Josef with Hokitika Scenic Tours
Franz Josef Glacier Valley Shuttle
Franz Josef to Queenstown with Glacier Shuttles
Milford Sound Business Class with Real NZ and Altitude Tours - Includes Canapes
Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo with Cheeky Kiwi
Private Transfer from christchurch Accommodation to Airport
6 breakfasts, 1 lunch
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
Arrive in Christchurch and settle into New Zealand’s charming garden city, known for its leafy streets and revitalised urban energy. Take time to explore at your own pace, discovering a mix of historic landmarks and modern creativity throughout the city.
Included: Private transfer from Christchurch Airport to accommodation Enjoy a smooth arrival with a private transfer waiting to take you directly to your hotel. This personalised service ensures a relaxed start after your journey, allowing you to settle in comfortably.
Suggested Activity: Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour Explore Christchurch on a half-day tour that reveals both its historic charm and inspiring rebuild following the earthquakes. Discover elegant architecture, beautiful gardens and key landmarks while gaining insight into the city’s resilience and transformation.
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City
Stay in a stylish central hotel, perfectly positioned near Hagley Park and Christchurch’s vibrant dining scene. Its modern design and boutique feel make it an ideal base for your first night.
Day 2: Christchuch to Franz Josef Glacier
Today brings one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, followed by a stunning drive to the West Coast glaciers. Travel from the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps and into lush rainforest landscapes.
Included: Transfer from accommodation to Christchurch Train Station Begin your day with a convenient transfer to the station, ensuring a stress-free connection to your rail journey. This seamless start allows you to focus on the incredible scenery ahead.
Included: TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Christchurch to Greymouth Experience dramatic alpine views as the train crosses rivers, gorges, and mountain passes. Large panoramic windows provide uninterrupted vistas of one of New Zealand’s most iconic journeys.
Included: Coach transfer from Greymouth to Franz Josef Continue south along the rugged West Coast, passing historic towns and coastal scenery. This journey offers insight into the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
Included: Glacier Valley Shuttle Travel into the Franz Josef Valley for closer views of the glacier and surrounding landscapes. The area offers accessible walking tracks with impressive viewpoints.
Suggested Upgrade: TranzAlpine Scenic Plus Add-On Upgrade your TranzAlpine journey with premium service, featuring spacious seating, panoramic views and priority boarding for a seamless experience. Enjoy regionally inspired cuisine and drinks served onboard, while taking in spectacular Southern Alps scenery from both indoor comfort and the open-air viewing carriage.
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Stay close to the glacier in a comfortable hotel set within the rainforest environment. Its location makes it easy to explore the surrounding natural attractions.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 3: Franz Josef Glacier to Queenstown
Journey from glacier country to the adventure capital of Queenstown, travelling through some of the South Island’s most remote landscapes. The route includes the spectacular Haast Pass and stunning alpine lakes.
Included: Coach transfer from Franz Josef to Queenstown Enjoy a scenic drive through dramatic mountain passes and alongside pristine lakes. This route showcases the diversity of the South Island’s landscapes in a single day.
Suggested Activity: TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner Cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship, taking in stunning alpine scenery en route to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Enjoy a gourmet BBQ dinner featuring local produce, followed by an entertaining farm demonstration before returning to Queenstown under the evening sky.
Accommodation: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Relax in a centrally located hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, just steps from Queenstown’s lively centre. The setting offers both convenience and beautiful alpine views.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 4: Free Day in Queenstown
Spend the day exploring Queenstown at your leisure, a destination known for both adventure and relaxation. Surrounded by mountains and lake scenery, it offers countless ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Suggested Activity: Wilderness Jet Experience with Dart River Safaris Feel the adrenaline rush as you speed through the remote landscapes of Mt Aspiring National Park on an unforgettable jet boat adventure. Surrounded by towering peaks and untouched wilderness, this thrilling journey brings together natural beauty, history and cinematic scenery.
Suggested Activity: Lord of the Rings Glenorchy Tour Travel through the stunning landscapes of Glenorchy and Paradise, where iconic scenes from The Lord of the Rings were filmed. Discover breathtaking alpine scenery and learn behind-the-scenes stories as you explore locations that brought Middle-earth to life.
Accommodation: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Enjoy another night in your lakeside hotel, with easy access to restaurants, shops, and scenic walks. The central location makes it simple to tailor your day to your interests.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 5: Milford Sound Day Tour
Travel to the breathtaking Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders. Towering cliffs, waterfalls, and tranquil waters create an unforgettable experience.
Included: Milford Sound Business Class Experience with Canapés Travel in premium comfort from Queenstown to Milford Sound, enjoying personalised service, scenic stops in Fiordland and rich storytelling along the way. Once in the fiord, relax aboard a luxury vessel with canapés and New Zealand bubbles, taking in breathtaking views of waterfalls, wildlife and dramatic landscapes.
Accommodation: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Return to Queenstown for another relaxing evening by the lake. The familiar comfort of your hotel provides the perfect end to a memorable day.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook
Travel north through the heart of the Southern Alps, passing iconic destinations including Aoraki/Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo. This journey combines scenic highlights with insightful commentary from your guide.
Included: Small group coach tour from Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo Travel through some of the South Island’s most spectacular landscapes, including Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and the striking turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo. This small group journey offers expert commentary and scenic stops, making it an engaging and comfortable way to experience the region’s highlights.
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City
Return to Christchurch for your final night in a modern and comfortable hotel. Its central location makes it easy to enjoy the city one last time.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7: Depart Christchurch
Your journey concludes in Christchurch, offering a smooth and easy departure. Take in a final glimpse of the city before heading to the airport.
Included: Private transfer from accommodation to Christchurch Airport Enjoy a reliable transfer to the airport, ensuring a stress-free end to your tour. This service allows you to depart with ease and comfort.
Coach Tours
