Queenstown

Popular Sights in Queenstown

Things to do during your Queenstown vacation

Queenstown, New Zealand, is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by towering mountains, Queenstown offers an endless array of things to do for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

• Skyline Queenstown: Ride the gondola to the top of Bob's Peak for panoramic views of the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu.
• Milford Sound Cruise: Embark on a scenic cruise through the breathtaking Milford Sound, surrounded by towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife.
• Shotover Jet: Experience the thrill of a high-speed jet boat ride through the spectacular Shotover River Canyons.
• Bungee Jumping: Take a leap of faith and bungee jump off the historic Kawarau Bridge or the Nevis Bungy, two of the world's most famous bungee jumping spots.
• Hiking in Fiordland National Park: Explore the majestic landscapes of Fiordland National Park, home to breathtaking trails such as the Routeburn Track and the Kepler Track.
• Wine Tasting in Central Otago: Indulge in a wine tasting tour in the Central Otago region, known for its award-winning Pinot Noir and stunning vineyards.
• Glenorchy: Visit the picturesque town of Glenorchy, located at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, and discover its untouched natural beauty.
• Skydiving: Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a tandem skydive over the stunning landscapes of Queenstown.
• Kawarau River Rafting: Go white water rafting on the famous Kawarau River, tackling thrilling rapids and enjoying breathtaking scenic views.
• Lord of the Rings Tour: Embark on a guided tour to explore the magical filming locations of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, showcasing the stunning landscapes of Queenstown.
• Stargazing at Mount John Observatory: Immerse yourself in the enchanting night sky with a stargazing tour at the Mount John Observatory, renowned for its clear skies and celestial beauty.

Why you should visit Queenstown

A guide To your first day of Queenstown vacation

morning

• Take a scenic drive to Glenorchy and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu along the way.
• Go for a hike on the Ben Lomond Track and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains.

afternoon

• Take a scenic gondola ride up Bob's Peak for sweeping views of Queenstown and the Remarkables mountain range.
• Explore the quaint streets of Arrowtown and visit the historic gold mining sites.

evening

• Indulge in a delicious dinner at one of Queenstown's waterfront restaurants while enjoying the scenic views.
• Join a cruise on Lake Wakatipu and witness the stunning sunset over the mountains.

night

• Experience the thrilling nightlife of Queenstown by visiting the vibrant bars and clubs.
• Stargaze at the nearby Dark Sky Reserve and marvel at the stunning display of stars.

How to get to Queenstown

By Plane

Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is the main gateway to the stunning landscapes of Queenstown. With regular flights from major international cities like Sydney, Auckland, and Melbourne, it offers convenient access for travelers. The airport is located just 10 minutes from the city center, allowing for quick transfers and hassle-free arrivals.

• Check direct connections to ZQN Airport

By other means

Queenstown is well-served by public transportation, with regular bus services connecting the city to nearby towns and attractions. The bus station, conveniently located in the city center, serves as a starting point for scenic tours and day trips to Milford Sound or Glenorchy. Additionally, Queenstown is a stop on the world-famous TranzAlpine railway, offering breathtaking train journeys through the picturesque Southern Alps.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!

Flights

Accommodation

Best for travelers who are ...

Adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a lively atmosphere

How long to stay in Queenstown?

To truly experience the best of Queenstown, we recommend staying for at least 5-7 days. This will give you enough time to indulge in the adventure activities, explore the stunning landscapes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant town atmosphere.