Ilam Travel Guide
Christchurch
Popular places to visit
University of Canterbury
Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Canterbury during your trip to Christchurch. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
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.
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.
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.
Christchurch Gondola
Cruise past shimmering blue lakes and snow-capped mountains on your way to the top of Mount Cavendish.
Things to do
Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch
Christchurch to Arthur's Pass Day Tour: TranzAlpine Train & Lunch
Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch
Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo
Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch with Lunch
Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill
Top hotels in Ilam
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
It's a place that had a hip vibe in the lobby and a fantastic deal for the all you can eat breakfast (pay extra). The location is great in downtown and very near to the bus station. We got a room with a view/window, and had to laugh since the window was about 3ft x 4ft. We ended up keeping the blinds ...
Reviewed on 27 Mar 2026
Bealey Quarter
I did not know there was breakfast. Room clean and comfortable. Road noise present, suggest ear plugs. Parking easy
Reviewed on 1 Apr 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
Love it! Amazing breakfast, right AT the airport. Completely worth it.
Reviewed on 30 Mar 2026
LyLo Christchurch
Yes the shared kitchen and eating area is great, but it is hard to keep it clean the whole time. I only see dish detergent but no cleaning product for the counters and tables. I did not see paper towels. The room is not great but very basic. It is close enough to the airport with a grocery store ...
Reviewed on 1 Apr 2026
Wyndham Garden Christchurch Kilmore Street
The room was large and had everything needed for a longer stay
Reviewed on 25 Mar 2026
Hotel Give
Hostel type accommodation. Shared toilet. Noisy.
Reviewed on 27 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Ilam
Burnside
Travellers come to Burnside for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Jellie Park Recreation and Sport Centre and Nunweek Park while you're in town.
Fendalton
Travellers like the historical sites in Fendalton, and Riccarton House is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Riccarton
Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.
Papanui
Unique features of Papanui include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Northlands Shopping Centre or Papanui Road while you're exploring the area.
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.
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.
