Queenstown is the world's adventure capital, nestled on the shores of the crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu against the dramatic backdrop of the Remarkables mountain range. It is a vibrant, year-round destination known for adrenaline sports, alpine scenery, and a lively après-ski culture. The best time to visit is from December to February for warm hiking weather or July to September for world-class skiing.
Top Things to Do in Queenstown
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Getting Around Queenstown
From the Airport
Bus. The Orbus service runs the Number 1 line frequently between Queenstown Airport and the town center, taking about 25 minutes and costing approximately $10 NZD. Rideshare. Uber is widely available at the airport and provides a convenient door-to-door service to your accommodation in the town center. Shuttle. Various private shuttle companies like Super Shuttle offer pre-booked shared rides directly from the airport terminal to your hotel door.
Once You're There
Walking. The Queenstown town center is very compact and easily navigated on foot, making walking the best way to see the main sights. Rideshare. Uber is the standard app for getting around if you need to travel to destinations slightly outside the town center, such as the Onsen Hot Pools. Car Rental. Renting a car is highly recommended if you plan to visit Arrowtown, Gibbston Valley, or the various hiking trailheads, as public transport can be limited outside the town core.
Where to Stay in Queenstown
Hotel picks for Queenstown are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Queenstown
Fergburger★ 4.6 (25,759)42 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New ZealandThis legendary spot is famous for its massive, gourmet burgers that draw long queues around the block at all hours.
Rata★ 4.6 (435)43 Ballarat Street, Queenstown 9300, New ZealandFounded by celebrity chef Josh Emett, this upscale restaurant showcases the very best of contemporary New Zealand cuisine in a refined setting.
Flame Bar and Grill★ 4.5 (3,925)Entrance on Street Level Steamer Wharf 88 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New ZealandRenowned for its South African-inspired ribs and steaks, this lively spot offers incredible views over the lake.
Botswana Butchery★ 4.5 (2,479)17 Marine Parade, Queenstown 9300, New ZealandKnown for its premium cuts of meat and extensive wine list, this restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience in a historic lakeside cottage.
The Bunker★ 4.5 (916)14 Cow Lane, Queenstown 9300, New ZealandThis intimate, hidden gem specializes in high-end game meats and craft cocktails, perfect for a cozy evening out.
Yonder★ 4.4 (2,481)14 Church Street, Queenstown 9300, New ZealandA trendy, eclectic space that offers creative brunch options and live music in the heart of the town center.
Vudu Cafe & Larder★ 4.4 (1,917)16 Rees Street, Queenstown 9300, New ZealandThis waterfront cafe is the go-to spot for artisanal coffee and sophisticated cabinet food with a scenic view.
Madam Woo★ 4.2 (1,501)5 Lower Ballarat Street Queenstown 9348, The Mall Ballarat Street, Queenstown 9300, New ZealandThis vibrant eatery serves up delicious Malaysian-inspired street food, with the Hawker Roll being a local favorite.
Amisfield Bistro★ 4.0 (726)10 Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Road Lake Hayes, 10 Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Road, Queenstown 9371, New ZealandLocated in a stunning stone building, it is famous for its 'Trust the Chef' degustation menu paired with local Central Otago pinot noir.
Fishbone Bar & Grill★ 4.0 (283)7 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New ZealandThis long-standing establishment focuses on sustainable, fresh-caught New Zealand seafood prepared with local flair.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Queenstown
Heights & Lake Views
Morning. Start your Queenstown adventure by heading straight to the Skyline Queenstown complex. Take the gondola up Bob's Peak for an unparalleled panoramic view of the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu. Spend an hour wandering the observation decks before taking a thrilling ride on the Luge track. Aim to arrive right when they open at 9:00 AM to avoid the mid-morning tour bus crowds. Afterward, head back down to the town center to stretch your legs at the serene Queenstown Gardens, which sits on a peninsula jutting into the lake.
Afternoon. After a morning of heights, walk along the waterfront toward the Earnslaw Park area to soak in the atmosphere. Grab a coffee and watch the TSS Earnslaw steamship depart from the Steamer Wharf. If you are feeling adventurous, book a jet boat ride on the Shotover River, which is just a short shuttle ride away from the town center. The ride is fast, loud, and incredibly fun, offering a unique perspective of the river canyons. Return to the town center by late afternoon to explore the boutique shops along the Queenstown Mall.
Evening. Wind down your first day by settling into the cozy, upscale vibe of the town center. Wander toward the waterfront to catch the sunset, which paints the mountain peaks in brilliant shades of pink and orange. For dinner, head to a restaurant overlooking the water to enjoy the shifting light over the lake. End the night with a craft cocktail at a local bar like The Bunker, which offers a dark, moody, and sophisticated atmosphere. It is the perfect way to cap off an action-packed first day in the mountains.
Canyons & Gold Rush History
Morning. Head out of the main town toward the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown, about a 20-minute drive away. Spend your morning wandering the charming Buckingham Street, where original miners' cottages still stand, giving you a glimpse into the 1860s gold rush. Walk down to the Arrow River to see the Chinese Settlement, a preserved area that tells the story of the Chinese miners who once lived there. The morning light filtering through the trees makes the river area particularly photogenic. Before leaving, grab a coffee at one of the rustic cafes lining the main street.
Afternoon. On your way back toward Queenstown, stop at the historic Kawerau Bridge to watch the bungy jumpers take the plunge. Even if you don't jump, the engineering of the bridge and the turquoise water below are sights to behold. Continue toward the Gibbston Valley, known as the 'Valley of the Vines,' to sample world-class pinot noir. Spend a couple of hours at Amisfield Bistro for a long, lazy lunch paired with some of the region's best vintages. It is a relaxing, scenic way to spend the afternoon surrounded by rolling vineyards.
Evening. Return to Queenstown and prepare for a relaxed evening. Since you spent the afternoon in wine country, keep the theme going by visiting a local wine bar in the town center to try a flight of Central Otago wines. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant that focuses on fresh, local ingredients. If you have energy left, take a moonlit stroll along the lakefront near the main pier to enjoy the quiet reflection of the town lights on the water. It is a peaceful contrast to the excitement of the previous day.
Alpine Trails & Adrenaline
Morning. Dedicate your final morning to the great outdoors by tackling the lower sections of the Ben Lomond Track. You don't need to hike all the way to the summit to get incredible views; even the first hour of the trail offers sweeping vistas of the lake and the town below. Pack plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain can be uneven. Start early to beat the heat and the midday sun, as the trail is quite exposed. Once you descend, you will feel invigorated by the fresh alpine air and ready for a hearty lunch.
Afternoon. After your hike, head toward the base of Coronet Peak for a different kind of mountain experience. Even outside of the ski season, the drive up the mountain road provides some of the most dramatic photography spots in the entire region. Spend the afternoon exploring the trails around the base or simply relaxing with a view of the Wakatipu Basin. If you prefer something more relaxing, head to the Onsen Hot Pools, located just a few minutes outside of town, to soak in private cedar-lined pools overlooking the Shotover River canyon.
Evening. For your final evening, treat yourself to a memorable meal that celebrates the best of New Zealand's produce. Book a table at a restaurant that offers a view of the mountains to soak in the landscape one last time. After dinner, walk through the town center's nightlife district to see the lively pubs and bars that make Queenstown famous. If you want a sweet treat, grab a dessert from a local bakery or an ice cream to enjoy while walking along the pier. It is the perfect, relaxed conclusion to your three-day alpine getaway.