Hotels in Hamilton

Hamilton: Where Lush Gardens Embrace the Serenity of Nature

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, Hamilton is a vibrant city radiating charm and natural beauty. Known for its stunning gardens, including the renowned Hamilton Gardens, this destination invites visitors to stroll through themed landscapes that celebrate cultures from around the world. The nearby Waikato River offers picturesque walking and biking trails, while the lush countryside beckons for weekend escapades. Explore the rich Maori heritage at local landmarks and indulge in the thriving café culture. With a blend of urban flair and tranquil nature, Hamilton is the perfect getaway for adventure seekers and serenity lovers alike. For the best hotel rates in Hamilton, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Hamilton

Some of the best places to stay in Hamilton are Hamilton East, Te Rapa and Whitiora. Hamilton, Waikato, offers diverse neighborhoods for travelers. Hamilton East is vibrant, featuring parks and local cafes, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Te Rapa is known for its shopping and entertainment options, perfect for those seeking convenience. Whitiora boasts a mix of residential charm and accessibility to attractions. Accommodation in these areas includes everything from luxury hotels to cozy suites, ensuring options for every budget and preference. Whether you want a modern hotel or a comfortable stay, Hamilton has it all. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Hamilton:

1. Hamilton EastOpens in a new window: Hamilton East is a vibrant area perfect for families, offering attractions like the romantic SkyCity Hamilton casino and the beautiful Hamilton Gardens, ideal for outdoor adventures. For accommodation, consider Huntington Stables Retreat AccommodationOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel that focuses on adventure and wellness, providing activities such as hiking and kayaking. Another option is Sarnia ParkOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star hotel, which caters to both business and romantic travelers with amenities like a spa and pool services. Lastly, Lakeview Lodge KarapiroOpens in a new window offers a luxurious lodge experience with various adventure sports nearby, ideal for those looking to explore nature.
2. Te RapaOpens in a new window: Te Rapa is a family-friendly location known for its proximity to attractions like SkyCity Hamilton and Waikato Stadium. For those traveling for business, Distinction Hamilton Hotel & Conference CentreOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel equipped with multiple meeting rooms and a business center. Alternatively, Manor ViewsOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star guesthouse featuring a full-service spa and relaxation services, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Another option, Foxgloves Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window, offers a cozy Bed and Breakfast experience with adventure sports readily available nearby.
3. WhitioraOpens in a new window: Whitiora is an engaging area with family-oriented attractions, including the SkyCity Hamilton casino and Waikato Stadium. Consider Atrium on UlsterOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star motel that features various sports and recreation options onsite. For business travelers, Novotel Tainui HamiltonOpens in a new window offers luxurious accommodations with a full suite of business amenities, including meeting rooms and childcare services. Lastly, Barclay MotelOpens in a new window provides a comfortable motel experience with entertainment options, making it suitable for both families and business travelers alike.

Things to do in Hamilton for first time

A three-day trip to Hamilton offers a delightful escape into lush gardens, serene parks, and picturesque countryside. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and wildlife encounters, along with vibrant local festivals and relaxing spa experiences, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Hamilton:

• Day 1: Start your adventure along the stunning Waikato River, where you can enjoy picturesque views and perhaps take a leisurely walk or bike ride along its banks. Next, immerse yourself in the beauty of Moondance Manor Gardens, a tranquil spot filled with vibrant flowers and charming pathways. Conclude your day at the TreeChurch and Gardens, a unique attraction that combines nature and artistry, offering a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection and relaxation.
• Day 2: Set off for an enchanting experience at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you can explore the iconic film set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Afterward, head to Lake Karapiro for some outdoor fun; you can enjoy activities like kayaking or simply relax by the water's edge. Conclude your day at Chiddingfold Garden, a delightful garden known for its diverse plant life and serene environment, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
• Day 3: Begin your day at Zealong Tea Estate, where you can learn about tea production and enjoy a tasting session amidst lush greenery. Following your tea experience, visit Turangawaewae Marae, a significant cultural site that offers insights into Māori heritage and community. Finally, unwind at Waingaro Hot Springs, where you can soak in the therapeutic mineral waters and relax after a day of exploration.

5 tips to find a great Hamilton hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Hamilton is from October to December, when hotel prices drop significantly. If you're an international traveler, aim to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure cheaper fares. A stay of at least 1-2 days is perfect for discovering the city's highlights, which include beautiful gardens and scenic natural parks. Hamilton offers great value for money, making it an ideal destination for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you’re looking for last-minute deals to Hamilton, you might find great hotel rates that align with your travel plans. To explore these options on Hotels.com, check the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you're more likely to uncover discounted prices on nearby accommodations. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, ensuring you can seize any opportunities for savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Hamilton.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Hamilton is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the downtown area, you can take advantage of transportation options like car rentals or buses to explore the region, which can help you save on expenses.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Hamilton and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Hamilton

Here are a few popular dishes in Hamilton, Waikato, New Zealand:

• Poutine: This beloved Canadian dish has made its way into the hearts of many in Hamilton. It features crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy, making it a perfect comfort food. Local variations often include unique toppings, reflecting the creativity of Hamilton's culinary scene.
• Butter Tarts: A quintessential Canadian dessert, butter tarts are sweet, gooey treats made with a flaky pastry shell filled with a rich mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs. In Hamilton, you can find artisanal versions that incorporate local ingredients like walnuts or chocolate, adding a delightful twist to this classic treat.
• Peameal Bacon: Often referred to as Canadian bacon, peameal bacon is made from lean pork loin rolled in cornmeal, giving it a distinctive texture. In Hamilton, it's frequently served on a fresh bun for breakfast or brunch, making it a local favorite.

Best time to go to Hamilton

Hamilton experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 48.0°F (8.9°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 65.5°F (18.6°C). September is usually the wettest month. January to March are the peak travel months in Hamilton, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, May, June, and August tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.