Sydenham Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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.
Activities
Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo
Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch
Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch
Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch
Our pick of the best Sydenham Hotel Deals
Colombo Lodge Christchurch
No staff on site
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
LyLo Christchurch
Room was clean but small.
Reviewed on 18 Feb 2026
Bealey Quarter
Stayed twice over the course of our holiday. Spacious clean room, as there were 3 of us the triple room was perfect. Really comfy beds and pillows and the bed linen and towels were good quality. Staff helpful also. Would stay again.
Reviewed on 19 Feb 2026
Wyndham Garden Christchurch Kilmore Street
Clean room and staff was courteous and responsive
Reviewed on 19 Feb 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
Great stay. Genuinely lovely and oh so quiet room (as long as you are ok with open bathrooms). We arrived after midnight and were setting off on a road trip the following morning so it was a perfect solution for us.
Reviewed on 18 Feb 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Sydenham
Christchurch City Centre
Christchurch City Centre is a destination visitors seek out for its abundant dining options, interesting museums and colourful gardens. You might want to check out attractions like Christchurch Art Gallery or Cathedral Square while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Addington
Unique features of Addington include the theatres and live music. Make a stop by Apollo Projects Stadium or Addington Raceway while you're exploring the area.
Linwood
You'll enjoy the parks and shopping in Linwood. You might want to make time for a stop at Eastgate Mall or Wilding Park Tennis Center.
Woolston
You'll enjoy the restaurants and gardens in Woolston. You might want to make time for a stop at The Tannery or Caddyshack City.
Riccarton
Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.
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.
