Top 15 Cool and Unique Hotels in Wellington 2023

Entering QT Wellington felt like stepping into one of my favorite places where expressive art, luxurious design, and technology seamlessly merge. The warm invitation to explore a captivating collection of art and character made me feel like I found my ideal hub as a cultural connoisseur.

The guestrooms, surrounded by urban hills and offering breathtaking harbor views, became my own creative hideaway. The designer opulence, characterized by abstract lines and playful patterns, added a touch of uniqueness to my stay.

While visiting, I couldn’t resist indulging in the exquisite restaurant, ‘Hippopotamus.’ The menu, ranging from comforting dishes to fine dining options, satisfied my cravings and left me wholly content.

The lavish décor of the hotel, combined with the attentive staff presence, transformed my stay into a truly remarkable experience.

I’m greeted by a sensory wonderland from the moment I step into the grand entrance. The sumptuous lounge, lavish parlour, and lobby all tell the love story of Lady Naumi, the hotel’s original custodian.

The hotel, adorned with the talents of New Zealand artists and designers, is a true masterpiece, perfectly situated against a backdrop of vibrant florals. Wellington, hailed as the world’s coolest Capital City, showcases its electric vibe along Cuba Street, where this extravagant hotel resides. The team here has thoughtfully crafted the ultimate guide for my stay.

I love the warm welcome, encouraging me to unwind with a drink at the bar or indulge in fine cuisine at Lola Rouge.

One of my favorite places, Atura Wellington, is a true urban oasis offering cutting-edge comforts. While visiting, it became my idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The digitally convenient accommodation, set against Wellington’s picturesque central business district, is truly remarkable.

While staying at Atura Wellington, I experienced their commitment to exquisite service and top-notch amenities. Frankie’s Bar + Eatery, nestled within the hotel, became my go-to spot for an evening of exceptional dining. The collision of refreshingly local and savory comfort made it a delicious escape from the boring and bland.

What added to the experience was the complimentary access to City Fitness Gym Thorndon, allowing guests like me to stay active and enjoy more than just a comfortable stay.

Bolton Hotel in Wellington became one of my favorite places during my visit. I love the personalized service and boutique-style atmosphere offered by this premier independent and family-owned property. While staying there, I found myself steps away from the Parliament building and the central business district.

The guestrooms are not just well-appointed; they are my perfect sanctuary amidst the energy and excitement of Wellington. From cozy studios to spacious apartment-style suites, I felt right at home. I enjoyed the exceptional features, including an indoor heated lap pool, a vibrant lobby area, a sauna and spa pool, and an artisan cafeteria offering both light bites and indulgent High Tea.

The downtown location proved excellent for both work and leisure. The Bolton Hotel truly embodies city-center sophistication, making my experience memorable.

The Intrepid Hotel in Te Aro instantly became one of my favorite places for discovery and exploration. Nestled just a stone’s throw from Cuba Street, this gorgeous boutique experience immerses you in the heart of travel vibes. The 18 contemporary guestrooms are a perfect blend of luxury and heritage.

My stay at The Intrepid was nothing short of delightful. The rooms are not only luxurious but also thoughtfully adorned with unique rugs and bespoke artwork. Waking up to a little baked treat every morning made me feel truly pampered.

The in-room amenities at this place are beyond compare. A 50-inch LG Smart TV kept me entertained, and the Real World bathroom products added a touch of luxury to my daily routine. What I loved most, though, was the curated selection of drinks and snacks. It’s these thoughtful touches that make The Intrepid Hotel a standout experience while visiting Wellington.

Just minutes away from the charming harbourside shops and restaurants along the Wellington Waterfront Walk, I found myself at one of my favorite places, the Microtel by Wyndham. Nestled steps from the breathtaking views of the Wellington Cable Car, this hotel offers a truly unique hospitality experience.

During my stay, I opted for the Business Queen Room, where large windows treated me to captivating city views. For a budget-friendly choice, I tried the Standard Queen Room, complete with smart TV streaming. Seeking a restful night.

The hotel’s bar became a go-to spot for me, indulging in New Zealand’s finest craft beers and wines. To satisfy my cravings, Vivians Cate, the on-site gem, offered thick sandwiches and fresh-out-the-oven bakes, providing an awesome food-tasting experience.

Established in 2013, this backpacker hostel in Wellington quickly became one of my favorite places. The goal was clear: to enhance the backpacker experience by offering comfort and style at affordable prices. While visiting, I found it to be a true haven, providing the comfort and amenities that weary travelers like me long for.

The accommodations are designed as an urban sanctuary, offering spacious and ultra-comfortable options to suit any budget. During my stay, I loved the comfy queen-sized beds in private rooms and the custom-made timber bunks in dorms.

What sets this place apart is the dedication to social spaces, making up over half of the hostel. While staying there, I enjoyed a relaxed dining area, a cozy cinema room, a big open garden, and even tennis and squash courts for the energetic visitor.

I discovered one of my favorite places—a newly opened five-star hotel in the vibrant Cuba Quarter. The energy here is simply incredible, blending culture, nature, and amazing gastronomy, making it a standout experience.

Staying at this hotel meant being in the heart of Wellington’s best restaurants, bars, and shopping spots, all within walking distance. The Forage restaurant offered a taste of New Zealand-inspired cuisine set against a panoramic city backdrop. The Forage Bar treated me to a carefully curated selection of craft beers, wines, and spirits.

My room was an elegant haven, with luxurious textures in gilded shades and rich tones across plush fabrics. The breathtaking city views from my window added to the allure. One of the highlights of my stay was the Chocolate Hour. For 60 mouth-watering minutes, I indulged in decadent cocoa treats, making my time here truly unforgettable.

I love this boutique hotel—a true gem designed by Alan Blundell. The modern, concrete exterior drew me in, but it’s the passion for Fifties and Sixties furniture that makes it one of my favorite places.

While visiting, I stepped into a vintage wonderland in the lobby. Leather easy chairs, a cozy gas fire, and a wooden dining table created a nostalgic vibe. The fusion of modern Kiwi artwork and textiles added a contemporary twist to its mid-century charm.

The guestrooms were a quirky delight, adorned with old clocks, post-war writing desks, and incredibly comfortable king-sized beds. With just 10 rooms, this boutique hotel radiates an easy-going atmosphere that perfectly complements its retro feel.

 I couldn’t get enough of the delicious, homemade local fare. Whether it was meals, coffee, or alcoholic drinks, the menu delighted my taste buds, making my experience even more memorable.

Wellesley quickly became one of my favorite places due to its dedication to preserving a unique historical building. As a guest, I felt like a custodian of this architectural wonder, appreciating every carefully planned action by the staff to enhance my experience while respecting the building’s heritage.

The beauty of the Wellesley extended beyond its historical significance to the guestrooms, where I fell in love with the individually styled spaces. The neo-Georgian furnishings and décor added a glamorous touch, making my stay truly special.

Located in the heart of the Lambton Quarter, Wellesley provided me with easy access to the cool Capital’s gems. It felt like an oasis of serenity, combining intimacy and sophistication in a boutique hotel setting.

U Boutique Hotel quickly became one of my favorite places for a stay, catering to comfort and budget. I love this place’s unique design, inspired by the charming pensione style found in continental Europe. During my visit, I enjoyed experiencing the cozy atmosphere of 2 funky buildings with European-styled boutique accommodation.

I found there truly is something for everyone. The 13 rooms vary from cozy spaces with shared bathroom facilities to spacious 1-bedroom family apartments complete with a modern kitchenette. The quirky design, reminiscent of Europe’s famed accommodations, shines through in communal courtyards, low-scale buildings, and an overall relaxed ambiance.

I enjoyed the continental breakfast served right to my room each morning. The spread included cereal, fruit, yogurt, juice, toast, and cookies, perfectly complementing the personalized and friendly atmosphere of U Boutique Hotel.

Sofitel Hotel, nestled in the heart of lush botanic gardens, became one of my favorite places with its undeniable French luxury. The ‘art de vivre’ style seamlessly blended with the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand’s capital.

During my stay, whether in a luxurious room or a spacious suite, I reveled in the refined French ambiance enhanced by carefully selected amenities. Breakfast rituals, all-day refreshments, Le Goûter afternoon tea, and Apero Chic canapés added a unique touch to my traveler experience.

One of the highlights was the renowned ‘Jardin Grill’ restaurant, where I experienced fantastic food and beverage options. The open kitchen allowed me to witness the Chefs’ miraculous artistry on the apple wood-fired grill, making my stay truly exceptional.

CityLife Wellington is one of my favorite places to soak up the atmosphere of NZ’s eclectic capital. While visiting, I stayed at this state-of-the-art hotel situated in the beating heart of the city on Lambton Quay.

I love this hotel for offering a range of studio, one- and two-bedroom serviced apartments. During my stay, I experienced the exceptional 24-hour reception service and a charming staff presence dedicated to a fantastic housekeeping service.

The rooms are a delight with their simplistic yet encapsulating color scheme and glamorous soft-wood headboards. The dazzling lighting surrounding the hotel’s entrance made my hospitality experience truly unique. I tried out the on-site, fully-equipped gym, which was a perfect way to start and end an exciting day of sightseeing.

One of my favorite places in Wellington’s entertainment precinct is this brand-new, modern hotel, offering spectacular waterfront views and a chic array of amenities.

I love this hotel for its homage to the building’s heritage, seamlessly blending history and style with its fresh and contemporary look.

While visiting, I discovered that the hotel was originally built in 1922 as an iconic Ford vehicle assembly plant. It has undergone a mega repurposing and is now a trendy 9-story hotel.

I experienced the delights of an exquisite on-site restaurant and bar. The tremendous meeting facilities and a well-equipped gym added to the charm of my stay, making it a state-of-the-art experience.

Staying at this BnB quickly became one of my favorite choices while visiting the vibrant capital. I love the perfect blend of value, comfort, and convenience that caters to all types of travelers – be it couples, families, or solo adventurers.

The place adds an eclectic twist to the traditional BnB experience. Mid-century hues and carefully chosen artwork adorn this grand property, featuring two wonderfully appointed bedrooms.

One of my favorite spots was the property’s deck, offering breathtaking views. While staying at the BnB at Bidwill, exploring Wellington’s treasures was a breeze, thanks to its proximity to iconic landmarks like the National War Memorial and the Government House.