TranzAlpine Train Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the TranzAlpine Train. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Arthur's Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train - Small Group Tour

• Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine Train Day Tour From Christchurch

• Coastal Pacific Train Journey From Christchurch to Picton

• TranzAlpine Train Journey: Christchurch to Greymouth

• TranzAlpine Train Journey from Greymouth to Christchurch 

Tickets for the TranzAlpine Train vary depending on the day, time, and route. Expect to pay between NZ$239 and NZ$269 for an adult one-way ticket from Christchurch to Greymouth, and between NZ$172 and NZ$195 for a child ticket. Scenic plus tickets, including refreshments and premium seating, are roughly double the price.

Yes, the TranzAlpine Train is largely regarded as New Zealand's most scenic train journey, taking you right through the heart of the Southern Alps. Book tickets in advance as the popular route often sells out, and settle in for the about 5-hour journey from Christchurch to Greymouth. To take in more of the sights on route, consider a tour that combines a ride on the TranzAlpine Train with a guided hike in Arthur's Pass National Park, a tour of the Franz Josef Glacier, or other activities. Many tours also include hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you the hassle (and expense) of taking a taxi to the train station.

Per one customer who booked the Arthur's Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train - Small Group Tour, "Should not be missed! Beautiful views, comfortable train ride, and great hiking after we were off the train with the group. Our tour guide, George, was terrific and knowledgeable, taking us to a number of interesting places, including the amazing Castle Hill."

The TranzAlpine Train is a scenic railway journey in New Zealand that traverses the Southern Alps between Christchurch and Greymouth. It's often touted as one of the world’s best train journeys and the route takes passengers past magnificent South Island landscapes, including mountain lakes, river gorges, and forests.

The TranzAlpine Train journey typically takes about 4.5–5 hours to travel coast-to-coast across New Zealand's South Island. Covering approximately 139 miles (223 kilometers) between Christchurch and Greymouth, this world-renowned picturesque journey boasts spectacular scenery and a year-round schedule, offering passengers unforgettable vistas of mountain landscapes and lush forests.

Yes, food and drink are available to purchase onboard the TranzAlpine Train. There’s an onboard Scenic Cafe which serves a variety of different dishes, as well as a fully licensed bar. Sample dishes include a vegetarian pie, lamb shank, chicken salad, and a variety of cakes, snacks, and baked goods.

The TranzAlpine Train offers spectacular views year-round, but many believe the best time to experience it is during the winter months. It’s during this time that the mountains are capped with snow and the landscapes are transformed into a winter wonderland, adding an extra layer of beauty to the journey.

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting the TranzAlpine Train. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in and around Christchurch:

• Lake Tekapo

• Lake Pukaki

• Christchurch Gondola

• International Antarctic Centre

• Arthur's Pass National Park

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Christchurch.