Nelson, New Zealand, is a city that’s easy to fall in love with—its friendly vibe, lively arts scene, and stunning natural surroundings make it perfect for exploring on foot. What sets Nelson apart is its walkability combined with a rich mix of attractions, from historic sites to modern galleries. We particularly love the Nelson City Walking Tour, which offers insider insights from a local guide, and the Abel Tasman trips, which combine walking, sailing, and wildlife spotting—giving you a taste of everything this beautiful region has to offer.
If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of Nelson’s highlights, the guided city walk is a great starting point. For nature lovers, the Abel Tasman National Park offers an active day out that combines land and sea. For those with a longer vacation and a love of immersive experiences, the 3-day Abel Tasman Guided Walk promises a more relaxed, in-depth adventure. Below, we detail each of these top-rated options to help you decide which suits your style best.
1. Nelson City Walking Tour – Guided
The Nelson City Walking Tour is a fantastic way to get to know Nelson’s streets with a knowledgeable local. Priced at $29.27 per person and lasting about 2–3 hours, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a thorough introduction to the city’s character. Your guide, a lifelong Nelson resident, takes you past key sights like Christ Church Cathedral, Queen’s Gardens, and the Suter Gallery, providing both historical context and engaging stories.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of art, architecture, and local lore, all with admission tickets included—saving you the hassle of entry fees. The walk begins on Nelson’s main street, where the variety of architectural styles immediately sets the tone. You’ll venture into the Queen’s Gardens, a Victorian-era park with a historic eel pond, and then visit the Nelson Provincial Museum, home to artifacts that reveal the area’s story. The highlight for many is Jens Hansen’s gold and silversmith studio, famously linked to the “Lord of the Rings” jewelry, and a peek at the studio’s craftsmanship.
With rave reviews praising guides like James for their storytelling and local knowledge, this tour offers good value and a chance to see Nelson’s artistic and natural side. Plus, the small group size and included tickets make it a practical choice. Bottom line: perfect for history buffs, art lovers, and those wanting a friendly, no-stress introduction to Nelson.
2. Cruise, Walk, and Sail in Abel Tasman National Park
Coming in at $125.28, this half-day combined cruise, walk, and sail tour is a favorite for travelers wanting a multi-faceted experience. Starting at Kaiteriteri Beach, you’ll hop aboard a water taxi to explore the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, with its iconic Split Apple Rock and diverse islands like Fisherman and Adele. This tour is a wonderful mix of scenery and adventure, perfect for nature lovers.
After a scenic cruise, you’ll disembark at Anchorage Bay to walk the Pitt Head Loop, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and offers fantastic views of golden beaches and bushland. Then, you’ll join a catamaran sail for approximately three hours, enjoying the ocean breeze as you cruise past secluded coves, native wildlife such as fur seals, and sandy beaches. The tour includes complimentary drinks, making it a relaxing way to experience the park’s natural beauty.
Guests often comment on the friendly crew and the variety of landscapes seen along the way. The combination of sea and land activities means you get a well-rounded taste of Abel Tasman. This tour is ideally suited for travelers who want to see the coast from multiple perspectives and enjoy wildlife spotting.
Bottom line: a fun, active, and scenic experience for those short on time but eager for a true taste of New Zealand’s coast.
3. 3 Day Abel Tasman Guided Walk
If you’re in for a longer, more relaxed journey, the 3 Day Abel Tasman Guided Walk offers a comprehensive experience at $1,049.60 per person. Over three days, you walk through the park’s varied landscapes, cruise between eco-lodges, and enjoy comfortable accommodations, including Torrent Bay Lodge and Meadowbank Homestead. The tour includes boat transfers, so you only carry a light day pack, leaving your shoulders free to enjoy the scenery.
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of walking, cruising, and relaxing in eco-friendly lodges with ensuite rooms and hot showers. Meals are cooked for you, and the travel logistics are handled, making this ideal for travelers who want an immersive experience without sacrificing comfort. The itinerary is flexible, with options to shorten walks or cruise instead of walk if preferred, and the boat transfers mean the walking distances can be adjusted based on your fitness level.
While there are no reviews yet, similar multi-day tours in the area tend to attract those seeking a more leisurely pace and a deeper connection with the landscape. This is best suited for active travelers with several days to spare who want to experience Abel Tasman in a less hurried, more comfortable way.
Bottom line: excellent for those wanting a detailed, relaxed exploration of Abel Tasman with a focus on comfort and flexibility.
$1,049.60 per person
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour for You
Selecting the best tour depends on your budget, time, interests, and physical fitness. If you’re new to Nelson and want a quick, engaging introduction, the Nelson City Walking Tour offers excellent value and insider knowledge. For a day of scenic sightseeing and wildlife, the Cruise, Walk, and Sail tour in Abel Tasman provides a balanced mix of land and sea adventure. If you have a longer stay and love to hike with a touch of luxury, the 3-day Abel Tasman Guided Walk will reward you with a deep dive into this stunning national park.
Consider what’s most important to you—whether it’s learning about Nelson’s art scene, experiencing New Zealand’s coast from multiple angles, or traveling comfortably over several days. Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours in high season.
Final Thoughts
Nelson’s walkable city streets and nearby national parks offer a variety of enjoyable ways to explore on foot. Whether you prefer a casual city stroll, a day at sea, or a multi-day adventure, there’s a walking tour to match your style. We recommend starting with the Nelson City Walking Tour if you want a quick, insightful overview, or the Cruise, Walk, and Sail for a scenic day out. For more immersive experiences, the 3 Day Abel Tasman Guided Walk is hard to beat.
Whatever your choice, Nelson’s warm hospitality and stunning scenery will make your walking adventure memorable—just don’t forget your comfy shoes and camera. Book early, and get ready to explore this delightful corner of New Zealand.