Dreaming of a trip from Christchurch to the vibrant city of Seattle? Let eDreams help you plan your journey. Seattle, nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, boasts a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Its iconic Space Needle, bustling Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Pop Culture draw travellers from around the globe. Beyond the city's landmarks, explore the Olympic National Park's dramatic rainforests and stunning coastline, or discover the vibrant coffee scene and thriving arts community. A direct flight from Christchurch to Seattle typically takes around 13-15 hours, although flight duration can be influenced by weather conditions and specific flight routes. Air New Zealand and Qantas are two major airlines offering fairly frequent direct flights, although you may need to book in advance, especially for peak season.

If direct flights aren't readily available or fall outside your budget, consider alternative routes with layover cities like Los Angeles, Vancouver, or Honolulu. These routes might add to the overall travel time, but can sometimes offer more cost-effective options. Booking your flight during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) can often help you find the best deals. For budget-friendly travel, these months offer a sweet spot balancing pleasant weather and lower airfares compared to the peak summer months (June-August). Remember, summer is the most popular time to visit Seattle, with a higher influx of tourists and a potentially higher cost of flights and accommodation. In contrast, the quieter months of November to March often provide cheaper flights, although you may encounter more rain and colder temperatures.

Seattle's climate is known for its mild temperatures and significant rainfall. Summers (June-August) offer warm and sunny days, averaging highs in the mid-20°C, but evenings can be cool. Winters (December-February) are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 10°C, and experience frequent rainfall. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are shoulder seasons; they offer a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds but can experience some rain. Spring brings blooming flowers, while autumn shows vibrant foliage. Extreme weather events are uncommon; however, occasional periods of heavy rainfall can occur in any season. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you leave to help plan what to pack.

Christchurch has one main airport currently operating and serving commercial flights: Christchurch International Airport.

Christchurch International Airport

Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is the primary airport serving Christchurch and the Canterbury region. Opened in 1962, it has undergone various renovations and expansions, and currently handles millions of passengers annually. A modern airport, it offers services from various international and domestic airlines and serves as a hub for Air New Zealand.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Qantas
• American Airlines

Seattle has two main airports currently operating and serving commercial flights: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and Boeing Field.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), opened in 1949 and substantially expanded over the decades, is a major international airport serving Seattle and the Puget Sound region. It's a hub for several airlines, handling tens of millions of passengers yearly. From the airport, you can reach the city centre using public transport like the Link Light Rail, taxis, ride-sharing services or rental cars.

Boeing Field

Boeing Field (BFI), a smaller airport primarily serving general aviation, also operates commercial flights, mainly regional or charter services. It is located slightly further from the city center than SEA. Transportation options to downtown Seattle include taxis, rideshares and rental cars. Public transport options may be limited.

Seattle offers a fantastic array of attractions for every kind of traveller. From iconic landmarks to natural wonders, you'll find plenty to fill your itinerary.

• Pike Place Market: Explore this historic public market, brimming with fresh produce, seafood, flowers, and unique shops. Watch fishmongers tossing salmon and grab a coffee at the original Starbucks.
• Space Needle: Ascend this iconic observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains.
• Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): Immerse yourself in the world of music, science fiction, and pop culture at this architecturally stunning museum.