Title: Milford Sound Travel Guide: Best of Milford Sound, Southland Travel 2026 | Expedia.co.uk [Hotels in Milford Sound](https://expedia.co.uk/Milford-Sound-Hotels.d2274.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Holiday Rentals in Milford Sound](https://expedia.co.uk/Milford-Sound-Holiday-Rentals.d2274.Travel-Guide-HolidayRentals)[Flights to Milford Sound](https://expedia.co.uk/Cheap-Flights-To-Milford-Sound.d2274.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Things to do in Milford Sound](https://expedia.co.uk/Things-To-Do-In-Milford-Sound.d2274.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Milford Sound Car Hire](https://expedia.co.uk/Compare-Cheap-Car-Hire-In-Milford-Sound.d2274.Car-Hire-Guide)[Milford Sound Holidays](https://expedia.co.uk/Milford-Sound.d2274.Holidays-City-Breaks) # Milford Sound Travel Guide ## Tourist Guide ![Milford Sound](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/181000/181411-Milford-Sound.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Milford Sound showing mountains and a river or creek](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/78000/78067-Milford-Sound.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Milford Sound showing boating, a river or creek and a cascade](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/78000/78071-Milford-Sound.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Milford Sound featuring mountains, boating and a river or creek](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/78000/78075-Milford-Sound.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Milford Sound featuring boating, a river or creek and mountains](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/78000/78079-Milford-Sound.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Milford Sound Things to do #### Majestic sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls and abundant marine life make this beautiful sound one of New Zealand’s most prized destinations. Marvel at snow-capped peaks and cliffs that rise straight out of the water, get close enough to feel the spray of thundering waterfalls and look out for dolphins and sea birds at awe-inspiring Milford Sound. Experience the rugged natural surroundings with a kayak or enjoy the scenery from the comfort of a boat. Milford Sound is a year-round destination. On clear days, take in pristine views of the symmetrical Mitre Peak reflected in the still water. When it rains, the waterfalls are thunderous and the clouds that hug the cliffs create a mystical atmosphere. Without doubt, the best way to explore the sound is from the water. Several operators run boat tours, which vary in length from a couple of hours to overnight cruises. For a more intimate experience with nature, join a kayak tour. Catch a glimpse of dolphins, penguins, fur seals and an array of sea birds as you paddle. During boat and kayak tours, your guide will take you past the sound’s major highlights, including some spectacular waterfalls and the iconic Mitre Peak. This perfectly shaped cone is the tallest of the mountains in Milford Sound and stands at 5,551 feet (1,692 metres). Be sure to check out the Milford Sound Discovery Centre. The underwater observatory plunges 33 feet (10 metres) into the fiord and you can spy a variety of fish, as well as rare tube anemones and deep-water corals through the glass. On the upper floor, interactive videos and displays investigate the history and ecosystems of Milford Sound. A small café is located near the parking area. The closest town to Milford Sound is Te Anau, which can be reached in just over 2-hours’ drive down a scenic road. Regular buses also run from Queenstown, although this is a 6-hour journey. Accommodation in Milford Sound ranges from luxury chalets to tent sites. It’s a good idea to book your trip in advance during summer. - Top hotels in Milford Sound - Top Holiday Rentals in Milford Sound ![Fiordland Discovery](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/21000000/20610000/20608400/20608311/5f2f922b_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Fiordland Discovery Berth 5, Milford Wharf Milford Sound £1,103 13 Jan - 14 Jan 2026 includes taxes & fees Stay at this cruise ship in Milford Sound. Enjoy free breakfast, a rooftop terrace and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Milford Sound and Milford Discovery ... 9.6/10 Exceptional! (46 reviews) Very comfortable experience. Nice small group and a great commentary throughout the trip. Food was excellent as well. Reviewed on 2 Dec 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=13%2F01%2F2026&endDate=14%2F01%2F2026&selected=20608311&PinnedHotelID=20608311&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=2274) [See all properties in Milford Sound](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=29%2F12%2F2025&endDate=30%2F12%2F2025®ionId=2274) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ![Quest Invercargill Serviced Apartments](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/2000000/1370000/1367700/1367694/74f6d2e3_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Quest Invercargill Serviced Apartments Cnr Dee & The Crescent Streets Invercargill Stay at this luxury aparthotel in Invercargill. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (592 reviews) Clean room and staffs are friendly Reviewed on 9 Dec 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Invercargill-Hotels-Quest-Invercargill-Serviced-Apartments.h1367694.Hotel-Information) ![Birchwood Cottages](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/10000000/9630000/9627200/9627187/d360aa9b_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Birchwood Cottages 208 Milford Road Te Anau Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and room service. Popular attractions Fiordland Cinema and Luxmore Jet are located nearby. 9.2/10 Wonderful! (158 reviews) Lovely quaint cottages. Great value for money. Reviewed on 12 Apr 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Te-Anau-Hotels-Birchwood-Cottages.h9627187.Hotel-Information) ![Holiday Home Close to the Lake](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/114000000/113080000/113076300/113076288/c98a5881_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Holiday Home Close to the Lake Te Anau Southland Stay at this holiday home in Te Anau. Enjoy laundry facilities. Popular attractions Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre and Luxmore Jet are located ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (19 reviews) Lovely house, was exactly as mentioned in the app. Couldn’t fault anything Reviewed on 12 Dec 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Te-Anau-Hotels-Holiday-Home-Close-To-The-Lake.h113076288.Hotel-Information) [See all 1,994 properties in Southland](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience®ionId=6047987&sort=VACATION_RENTAL) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ## Check Milford Sound hotel availability [Tonight ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=2274&startDate=2025-12-28&endDate=2025-12-29)[28 Dec - 29 Dec](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=2274&startDate=2025-12-28&endDate=2025-12-29) [Tomorrow night ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=2274&startDate=2025-12-29&endDate=2025-12-30)[29 Dec - 30 Dec](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=2274&startDate=2025-12-29&endDate=2025-12-30) [Next weekend ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=2274&startDate=02%2F01%2F2026&endDate=04%2F01%2F2026)[2 Jan - 4 Jan](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=2274&startDate=02%2F01%2F2026&endDate=04%2F01%2F2026) ### Popular places to visit #### Milford Discovery Centre & Underwater Observatory Make time to visit the sea animals who live in Milford Discovery Centre & Underwater Observatory during your trip to Milford Sound. Discover the area's waterfalls and mountain views. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Milford-Discovery-Centre-Underwater-Observatory-Milford-Sound.d553248621526966873.Attraction) ### Things to do ![Milford Sound Wilderness Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/259336/3ff14164-8877-4fe8-ae32-37d04ab341e9.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Milford Sound Wilderness Cruise £76 per adult **98%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/milford-sound-wilderness-cruise.a259336.activity-details) ![The Milford Adventurer](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/1300174/697d5f80-b13a-4cb7-9557-664a724992e4.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Cruise Milford NZ Small Boutique Cruise Experience £78 per adult **98%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/cruise-milford-nz-small-boutique-cruise-experience.a1300174.activity-details) ![Milford Sound Nature Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/261851/d9e0e712-67bf-4b3e-b0fa-bb17784fda69.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Milford Sound Nature Cruise £72 per adult **88%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/milford-sound-nature-cruise.a261851.activity-details) ![2-Hour Milford Sound Scenic Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/1307452/1b2699b5-53b9-4ff6-b714-1ff03413d51e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### 2-Hour Milford Sound Scenic Cruise £73 per adult **96%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/2-hour-milford-sound-scenic-cruise.a1307452.activity-details) ![Milford Sound: Self-Guided Milford Track Day Walk](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/50417670/218e2486-8f3c-454f-b830-4376b5c4898f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Milford Sound: Self-Guided Milford Track Day Walk £33 per adult [](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/milford-sound-self-guided-milford-track-day-walk.a50417670.activity-details) ![Milford Sound Fly Cruise Fly](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/171800/9b083fa0-4f35-41df-a90d-fac5e7e47605.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Milford Sound Fly Cruise Fly £322 per adult **86%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/milford-sound-fly-cruise-fly.a171800.activity-details) [See all activities in Milford Sound](https://expedia.co.uk/Things-To-Do-In-Milford-Sound.d2274.Travel-Guide-Activities) ## Cities near Milford Sound ![Milford Sound featuring mountains, a pebble beach and forest scenes](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/181000/181041-Southland.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Fiordland National Park ## Explore a world of travel with Expedia - Accommodation - Flights - Packages - Cars - [Hotels near Milford Sound ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Milford-Sound-Hotels.0-l6110756-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) - [Hotels near Mitre Peak ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Mitre-Peak-Hotels.0-l6110754-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) - [Cheap Hotels in Te Anau Downs ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Te-Anau-Downs-Hotels-Budget-Hotels.0-0-d6048064-tBudgetHotels.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) - [Te Anau Downs Hotels ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Te-Anau-Downs-Hotels.d6048064.Travel-Guide-Hotels) - [Te Anau Hill Hotels ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Te-Anau-Hill-Hotels.d6048068.Travel-Guide-Hotels) - [Flights from Auckland (AKL) to Milford Sound (MFN) ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/flights/akl/mfn/auckland-to-milford-sound) - [Flights from Christchurch (CHC) to Milford Sound (MFN) ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/flights/chc/mfn/christchurch-to-milford-sound) - [Flights from London (LHR) to Milford Sound (MFN) ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/flights/lhr/mfn/london-to-milford-sound) - [Flights from Wellington (WLG) to Milford Sound (MFN) ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/flights/wlg/mfn/wellington-to-milford-sound) - [Flights from Queenstown (ZQN) to Milford Sound (MFN) ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/flights/zqn/mfn/queenstown-to-milford-sound) - [Milford Sound ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Milford-Sound-Fiordland-National-Park.d6110756.Attraction) - [Mirror Lake ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Mirror-Lake-Fiordland-National-Park.d553248635919972088.Attraction) - [Mitre Peak ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Mitre-Peak-Fiordland-National-Park.d6110754.Attraction) - [Visit Te Anau Downs ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Te-Anau-Downs.dx6048064) - [Car hire near Milford Sound ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Compare-Cheap-Car-Hire-In-Milford-Sound.d6110756.Car-Hire-Guide) - [Pickup Car Hire near Milford Sound ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Pickup-Car-Rentals-In-Milford-Sound.d6110756-tPickup.Car-Rental-Guide-Class) - [Premium Car Hire near Milford Sound ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Premium-Car-Rentals-In-Milford-Sound.d6110756-tPremium.Car-Rental-Guide-Class) - [People Carrier Car Hire near Milford Sound ](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Van-Car-Rentals-In-Milford-Sound.d6110756-tVan.Car-Rental-Guide-Class) - Cities near Milford Sound - Places of interest [Fiordland National Park](https://expedia.co.uk/Fiordland-National-Park.dx6353314) - [Milford Sound ](https://expedia.co.uk/Milford-Sound-Fiordland-National-Park.d6110756.Attraction) - [Mitre Peak ](https://expedia.co.uk/Mitre-Peak-Fiordland-National-Park.d6110754.Attraction) - [Mirror Lake ](https://expedia.co.uk/Mirror-Lake-Fiordland-National-Park.d553248635919972088.Attraction) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels when you book in the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. 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