Iconic Shore Excursion: Iconic Larnach Castle Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a personalized small group tour of Larnach Castle and Dunedin City. This is a 6 hour fully guided tour that lets you explore Dunedin and Larnach Castle at a leisurely pace. Included is a fully guided tour of Larnach Castle's unique interior. Chilled spring water is provided complimentary to those who bring their own re-useable water bottles.
The tour takes in many interesting buildings and landmarks in Dunedin city such as the Larnach family tomb, the old University and all the main city attractions. The drive to Larnach Castle offers spectacular views from the Otago Peninsula with a lookout stop along the way. On arrival at Larnach Castle, your table will be reserved for lunch at the Ballroom cafe (lunch is own cost). After lunch and the guided tour inside the Castle, your guide will also take you through the award winning gardens offering fantastic views over the Otago Harbour.
Available options
10:30am Dunedin City Pickup
Starting point:<br/>Dunedin Railway Station, 3074332, Central Dunedin, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
Iconic Shore Excursion: Iconic Larnach Castle Tour
Starting point:<br/>Beach Street Wharf, 46C Beach Street, Port Chalmers, Dunedin 9023, New Zealand
What's included
Guided tour of Larnach Castle
Port pickup and drop-off
Entry fee to Larnach Castle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We stop here at this magnificent old Railway Station to admire the architecture and take photos.
2
Drive through the oldest cemetery in Dunedin and view the spectacular family tomb of William Larnach. Designed by famed architect Robert Lawson in the image of Dunedin's Scottish First Church. The cemetery hosts a number of exquisite grave sites belonging to wealthy prestigious Dunedin people, nestled on a lovely wooded hillside.
3
Stop 3
Iconic Tours provide a fully guided small group tour of the Castle's interior. Smaller group size allows us to navigate the Castle with ease, keeping away from the larger groups and fitting much more into the day.
New Zealand's infamous castle was built over a century ago by William Larnach high up on the hills of the Otago Peninsula. Experience breath-taking views along the Peninsula's high road with photo stops en-route to the Castle. Upon arrival it will be time for a light lunch in the Ballroom Cafe (at own cost). We reserve a table for our group and a variety of food is available at good prices.
After lunch, your guide will escort you throughout the entire castle, from the gun room below to the views from the turret and all the marvels in between. Get all the details as you explore the Larnach family’s legacy and hear the tale of their amazing story.
4
Stop 4
Stop and view the street from below, or have a go at walking to the top. Baldwin Street is known as the World's steepest and no visit to Dunedin is complete without seeing this famous landmark.
5
We drive through the University Campus area to view the student flats and interesting buildings. If time permits we will stop to view the old Clock Tower Building
6
We take you on a scenic drive along the high road for a lookout stop before reaching Larnach Castle, located high up on the hills of the Otago Peninsula
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
43 reviews
5★
41
4★
2
3★
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Tripadvisor
4.9
48 reviews
5★
45
4★
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3★
1
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please provide the name of your cruise ship at time of booking
Some steps to negotiate during the tour of Larnach Castle
The Castle interior is not wheelchair accessible, however the Castle Gardens, Gift Shop and Ballroom Cafe are. Please notify us if you intend to bring a fold up wheelchair or walking aid on this tour.
Passengers must be able to get on and off the bus steps unassisted.
Meeting point
For city based passengers (non-cruise ship) please meet us at the main entrance of Dunedin Railway Station. The tour will start approximately 30 minutes after the stated start time. Please be ready 10 minutes prior.
*Please let us know if you are not a cruise ship passenger
Important notes
• Departure is 10:00am for cruise ship passengers
• Departure is 10:30am for city based passengers (meet at Dunedin Railway Station front steps)
• Cruise passengers meet your guide inside the main Visitor Terminal on the Ship's Wharf, Port Chalmers. Look for a sign ICONIC CITY SIGHTS TOUR
• If you are delayed you must contact us as soon as possible. If your cruise ship is delayed we may adjust the start and end times for the tour accordingly. Please ask the information desk on ship's wharf for more information on the day.
• If you are lost, delayed or for any other urgent reason, call the local operator direct on +64 34 72 7776
About Port Chalmers
Port Chalmers is a historic port town on the Otago Peninsula in New Zealand's South Island. Known for its charming Victorian architecture, rich maritime history, and stunning coastal scenery, it offers a peaceful yet culturally vibrant experience just a short drive from Dunedin.
Top Attractions
Port Chalmers Historic Walk
This self-guided walk takes you through the town's historic sites, including Victorian architecture, maritime history, and significant landmarks.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Otago Peninsula
The Otago Peninsula offers stunning coastal scenery, wildlife viewing, and hiking opportunities. It's home to the world's only mainland royal albatross colony.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees
Port Chalmers Maritime Museum
This small museum showcases the town's rich maritime history, with exhibits on shipping, whaling, and local heritage.
Museum
30-60 minutes
Free or donation-based
Must-Try Local Dishes
Whitebait Fritters
A traditional New Zealand dish made with whitebait, a small type of fish, mixed with egg and cooked in a fritter.
Appetizer
Contains fish and eggs
Seafood Chowder
A hearty soup made with a variety of local seafood, such as fish, mussels, and crab, in a creamy broth.
Soup
Contains seafood and dairy
Lamb Rack
A tender rack of lamb, often served with a mint sauce or red wine reduction, a classic New Zealand dish.
Main Course
Contains lamb
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Wildlife Viewing
Beachcombing
Picnicking
Waterfront Dining
Exploring Historic Sites
Visiting Museums
Best Time to Visit
Summer (December to February)
Summer is the best time to visit Port Chalmers, offering warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the coastal areas.
15-20°C
59-68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Port Chalmers is a very safe town with low crime rates. However, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when walking alone at night
- • Stay informed about weather conditions
Getting there
By air
- Dunedin International Airport • 25 km from Port Chalmers
By bus
Dunedin Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available for travel between Port Chalmers and Dunedin, but within the town, walking is the best option.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No specific apps, but taxis can be booked by phone
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Waterfront
Day trips
Dunedin
20 km from Port Chalmers • Half day to full day
Dunedin is a vibrant university city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a variety of cultural attractions.
Moeraki Boulders
50 km from Port Chalmers • Half day
The Moeraki Boulders are large, spherical boulders found on a stretch of Koekohe Beach. They are a unique geological feature and a popular tourist attraction.
Festivals
Port Chalmers Music Festival • Annual, typically held in February
Otago Peninsula Festival of the Arts • Annual, typically held in November
Pro tips
- Visit the Port Chalmers Maritime Museum for a deeper understanding of the town's history
- Explore the Otago Peninsula for stunning coastal scenery and wildlife viewing
- Enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant for beautiful views and fresh seafood
- Pick up a map of the historic walk from the local information center
- Check the opening hours of attractions and museums before visiting
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
