From breathtaking mountain scenery and unforgettable adventures to beautiful wineries, long lunches and luxury accommodation, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Queenstown, New Zealand.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit Queenstown seven times, and somehow, every time I leave, I’m already thinking about when I can return.
I’ve travelled here with my husband, explored with our children, and most recently enjoyed a girls’ getaway with six of us celebrating a 40th birthday. And although every trip has been completely different, there’s one thing that never changes: Queenstown is one of my favourite places in the world.
It’s the kind of destination where you can spend the morning surrounded by snow-covered mountains, the afternoon enjoying a long lunch at a beautiful winery and the evening sipping cocktails overlooking Lake Wakatipu.
You can fill your days with adventure or do very little at all. Both are equally wonderful.
After seven visits, I’ve discovered some incredible restaurants, memorable experiences and places I genuinely love returning to.
So whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, a winter ski trip or a girls’ weekend, I’ve put together my ultimate Queenstown travel guide.
Here are 25 incredible things to do, eat and experience in Queenstown, along with my personal recommendations and practical tips for planning your trip.
If it’s your first time in Queenstown, taking the Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak is a brilliant place to start.
The journey takes you high above town, where you’re rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables and the surrounding mountains.
It’s one of those views that really makes you appreciate just how beautiful Queenstown is.
For families, I’d also recommend looking into the Skyline Luge. It’s a fun activity for different ages, with a combination of scenic views and a little adventure.
You can also enjoy food and drinks at the top, making this more than just a quick sightseeing stop.
My tip: Visit on a clear day and consider going later in the afternoon when the changing light makes the mountains particularly beautiful.
If you’re looking for a special Queenstown experience, Onsen Hot Pools deserves a place on your itinerary.
Imagine sitting in a beautiful private cedar hot tub, surrounded by mountains, with views overlooking the Shotover River.
It’s peaceful, romantic and a lovely way to slow down after several busy days exploring.
On our recent girls’ trip, it was exactly the kind of experience we wanted: beautiful scenery, time together and a little luxury.
Queenstown can be such an adventure-filled destination, so I love that there are experiences like this where the entire point is to relax.
My tip: Book well in advance, particularly if you’re hoping for a sunset or evening session. Check the current package inclusions and any age restrictions when booking.
One of my favourite things to do in Queenstown is book a beautiful long lunch, and Ayrburn is an excellent place for exactly that.
Located near Arrowtown, Ayrburn is a gorgeous food and wine destination featuring restored historic buildings, beautifully landscaped grounds and several dining experiences.
During our recent girls’ getaway, we enjoyed lunch at The Woolshed.
Think delicious shared plates, beautiful surroundings, wonderful wine and the sort of afternoon that you really don’t want to end.
What I particularly love about Ayrburn is that you can make an entire afternoon of your visit. Rather than arriving for a quick meal and leaving, take your time to explore the property and enjoy the atmosphere.
My tip: Don’t squeeze Ayrburn between too many other activities. Allow several hours and enjoy it properly.
Another restaurant worth adding to your Queenstown itinerary is Sunfire.
Located at Steamer Wharf, Sunfire offers Mediterranean-inspired dining with an emphasis on seafood, quality produce and charcoal cooking.
We enjoyed a beautiful meal here during our recent trip, with shared plates, seafood and wine.
I love restaurants that encourage you to order a selection of dishes for the table. There’s something so enjoyable about trying different things, especially when you’re travelling with friends.
Whether you’re visiting for lunch or dinner, it’s a lovely option for a relaxed but memorable meal.
My tip: Make a reservation if you have a particular dining time in mind, especially during busy holiday periods.
If you’re someone who loves food and wine, Amisfield is one of the standout dining experiences to consider in the Queenstown region.
Located in the Gibbston area, Amisfield is known for its creative, seasonal dining and exceptional Central Otago wines.
This isn’t somewhere I’d plan to rush in and out of. It’s the kind of experience you book because you want the meal itself to be a highlight of your holiday.
For a romantic getaway, birthday celebration or special occasion, it makes a wonderful addition to your itinerary.
My tip: Book well ahead and allow plenty of time. If you’re planning a winery day, organise your transport before you go.
One of the reasons I keep returning to Queenstown is the incredible wine region surrounding it.
Central Otago is particularly famous for Pinot Noir, but even if you’re not a serious wine drinker, the wineries are worth visiting for their spectacular settings, beautiful restaurants and relaxed atmosphere.
Some of the places I’d recommend researching for your itinerary include:
Each offers something a little different, from picturesque cellar doors and tastings to long lunches and special-occasion dining.
On our recent girls’ trip, exploring the wineries was one of the highlights.
My tip: Rather than trying to visit every winery in one day, choose a few that genuinely interest you. Book a driver or winery tour so everyone can enjoy the experience.
The Bathhouse is one of those Queenstown locations that combines a beautiful setting with a little history.
Located directly on the shores of Lake Wakatipu at Queenstown Bay, this historic building is a lovely place to enjoy breakfast, coffee or a relaxed meal.
What makes it particularly special is the location.
You can sit overlooking the lake, watch people strolling along the waterfront and take in the surrounding mountain scenery.
For me, these slower moments are just as important as the big-ticket experiences.
My tip: Visit during the morning for a lovely start to your day, and try to secure a table with a lake view.
If you love finding a good coffee spot when travelling, add Wolf Coffee Roasters to your list.
During our recent visit, I enjoyed grabbing a coffee and taking in the beautiful Queenstown surroundings.
One of my favourite things about staying in Queenstown is that you can enjoy an excellent coffee and, within minutes, be walking alongside one of the most spectacular lakes in New Zealand.
Sometimes the simplest experiences become the most memorable.
My tip: Take your coffee to go and enjoy a relaxed walk along the lakefront.
You can’t write a Queenstown travel guide without mentioning Fergburger!
This iconic burger restaurant has become one of the town’s most famous food stops, and for good reason.
The burgers are enormous, delicious and definitely worth trying at least once.
Ryan and I have enjoyed Fergburger on previous visits, and it’s one of those Queenstown experiences that always brings back happy memories.
Yes, there can be queues. And yes, it’s incredibly popular with tourists.
But sometimes a place becomes famous because it genuinely delivers.
My tip: Try visiting outside the busiest lunch and dinner periods if you want to avoid the longest queues.
While everyone talks about Fergburger, don’t overlook Fergbakery.
Located nearby, it’s another great stop for pastries, baked treats and something delicious to enjoy while exploring town.
I love destinations where you can wander around without a strict plan, stopping whenever something catches your eye.
Queenstown is perfect for that.
Pick up something from the bakery and head towards the lake to enjoy it with a view.
My tip: This is a great option for an easy breakfast or snack between activities.
For something sweet, Patagonia Chocolates is another Queenstown favourite worth adding to your list.
It’s particularly appealing if you’re visiting with children, but honestly, it’s just as enjoyable for adults.
Depending on the season and the weather, you might prefer a rich hot chocolate or a delicious ice cream.
After a morning of sightseeing, it’s a lovely excuse to stop and enjoy a treat.
My tip: On a cold Queenstown day, a hot chocolate is especially appealing.
One of the best things to do in Queenstown is also completely free.
Lake Wakatipu is the heart of the town, and its beautiful waterfront is somewhere I always find myself returning to.
The lake is surrounded by dramatic mountains, and the views seem to change throughout the day depending on the weather and light.
You can enjoy a morning walk, sit on the waterfront with coffee, stop for a photograph or simply take in the scenery.
I think it’s important not to overplan every moment of a Queenstown holiday.
Some of my favourite memories are from the moments between activities.
My tip: Make time for a lakeside walk around sunset. The colours over the mountains can be spectacular.
If you’re visiting during warmer weather, you might be tempted to take a dip in Lake Wakatipu.
We did exactly that during our recent girls’ getaway!
Although the sunshine can make the lake look inviting, remember that it’s an alpine lake and the water can be extremely cold.
For families, there are lakeside areas where you can enjoy a picnic, relax on the shore or paddle in suitable conditions.
My tip: Choose a safe, sheltered swimming location, check conditions and don’t underestimate the cold water.
Queenstown is an incredible winter destination, and we’ve loved experiencing it as a family.
Ryan and I snowboard, while our children ski, so finding mountains with options for different abilities is important to us.
There are four major ski areas to consider around the Queenstown and Wānaka region:
Coronet Peak: A popular choice close to Queenstown, with terrain for different abilities.
The Remarkables: Another convenient Queenstown option, known for its spectacular alpine setting.
Cardrona: A popular family-friendly ski area between Queenstown and Wānaka.
Treble Cone: Located near Wānaka, with challenging terrain and incredible views.
Whether you’re travelling with children who are learning to ski or experienced snowboarders looking for a challenge, there are plenty of options.
My tip: Book lessons and equipment hire ahead of time during peak winter. Always check the mountain forecast, road conditions and snow report before setting out.
If there’s one piece of practical advice I’d give anyone planning a Queenstown holiday, it’s to seriously consider hiring a car.
I’ve visited Queenstown seven times, and having a car has always been such a valuable part of our trips.
It gives you the freedom to visit wineries, discover beautiful viewpoints, explore nearby towns and stop whenever something catches your eye.
During our recent girls’ getaway, we hired a Kia Carnival Hybrid through Hertz.
With six of us travelling together, having a spacious vehicle was incredibly convenient for luggage, shopping and getting around.
For families, it’s equally useful when you’re carrying ski gear, extra clothing and everything else that comes with travelling with children.
My tip: Compare car hire prices early and consider the amount of luggage you’ll be travelling with, not just the number of passengers.
Just a short drive from Queenstown, Arrowtown is one of the loveliest places to explore.
This historic gold-mining town is full of character, with charming streets, independent boutiques, cafés and beautiful surrounding scenery.
It’s a wonderful place to spend a relaxed morning or afternoon.
I particularly love destinations where you can simply wander, browse the shops and stop for coffee without needing a detailed itinerary.
Arrowtown is exactly that kind of place.
It’s especially beautiful in autumn when the trees turn shades of gold, orange and red.
My tip: Combine your Arrowtown visit with a winery or lunch booking nearby.
The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is one of the most beautiful road trips in the region.
Following Lake Wakatipu, the road offers breathtaking mountain scenery and plenty of places to stop and admire the views.
Glenorchy itself is a small settlement surrounded by spectacular landscapes, making it a lovely destination for a day trip.
You don’t need to have a particular activity booked to enjoy this excursion.
For me, the drive is a huge part of the appeal.
My tip: Allow extra time for photo stops and check road conditions before travelling, particularly during winter.
If you’re exploring beyond Queenstown, the historic Cardrona Hotel is another famous stop worth considering.
Its distinctive old-world appearance makes it one of the most recognisable buildings in the region.
It’s a popular place to stop for a meal, a drink or simply to enjoy the atmosphere.
If you’re travelling between Queenstown and Wānaka, it’s an easy destination to consider incorporating into your day.
My tip: Combine Cardrona with a scenic drive or a day exploring the wider Wānaka region.
Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary natural destinations.
Located in Fiordland National Park, it’s famous for its towering cliffs, dramatic waterfalls and the unmistakable silhouette of Mitre Peak.
A cruise through the fiord offers an incredible opportunity to appreciate the scale of the landscape and potentially spot wildlife.
You can visit Milford Sound from Queenstown by coach and cruise, by self-driving or through scenic flight packages.
However, it’s important to understand that this is a substantial excursion.
Travelling by road from Queenstown takes approximately four to five hours each way before allowing for sightseeing stops, weather and your cruise.
My tip: Treat Milford Sound as a full-day experience. If your budget allows, consider a scenic flight option, but remember flights are weather-dependent.
If you love dramatic wilderness landscapes, Doubtful Sound is another spectacular Fiordland destination to research.
Compared with Milford Sound, it offers a more remote and peaceful experience.
Surrounded by rainforest, towering mountains and waterfalls, it’s the kind of place that feels wonderfully removed from everyday life.
Getting there is an adventure in itself.
Most visitors travel to Manapouri, cross Lake Manapouri by boat and then continue over Wilmot Pass before boarding a cruise through Doubtful Sound.
It’s a very different journey from simply driving to a viewpoint.
My tip: Allow a full day from Queenstown or consider an overnight cruise if you want more time to experience the scenery.
For something a little different, Queenstown’s Minus 5 ICE BAR is a fun experience to add to your itinerary.
As the name suggests, the bar is kept below freezing, with ice sculptures and frozen surroundings creating a completely different atmosphere from your typical cocktail bar.
It’s an entertaining activity for a group of friends or anyone looking for something a little unusual.
I love that Queenstown has such a wide variety of experiences, from beautiful wineries and fine dining to quirky attractions like this.
My tip: Check session times, booking requirements and current age policies before visiting.
Queenstown has a wonderful atmosphere after dark.
Whether you prefer a stylish cocktail bar, a cosy pub or somewhere lively to spend the evening with friends, there are plenty of options.
During our recent girls’ getaway, we loved having the opportunity to dress up, enjoy beautiful meals and make an evening of it.
And after a busy day exploring, there’s something particularly enjoyable about settling into a warm bar with a drink and good company.
My tip: If you’re travelling with a group, book dinner in advance and leave the rest of the evening a little more flexible.
For adrenaline lovers, jet boating is one of Queenstown’s most famous adventure experiences.
The Shotover River provides a spectacular setting for high-speed jet boat rides through narrow canyons and dramatic landscapes.
It’s the kind of activity that makes Queenstown such a popular adventure destination.
If you love fast-paced experiences, this is one to consider.
For families, be sure to check the operator’s height requirements and suitability for younger children before booking.
My tip: Wear appropriate clothing and check what you can safely take onboard, particularly cameras and loose belongings.
If you’d prefer something a little more relaxed, consider a cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw.
This heritage steamship is one of Queenstown’s most recognisable attractions.
You can enjoy the scenery from the water, admire the surrounding mountains and experience a different perspective of the lake.
Some packages also combine the cruise with experiences at Walter Peak High Country Farm, including dining and farm activities.
This is a particularly appealing option for families or anyone who enjoys scenic experiences without the adrenaline.
My tip: Compare cruise-only tickets with packages that include Walter Peak before booking.
One of my favourite things about Queenstown is that you can enjoy an incredible holiday without filling every hour with organised activities.
On our recent girls’ trip, we made time for shopping, coffee, wandering through town and simply enjoying being away together.
Queenstown has a mix of boutiques, outdoor clothing shops, souvenir stores and places to stop for a bite to eat.
For families, the Queenstown Gardens and its seasonal activities are also worth exploring.
You might find that these relaxed afternoons become some of your favourite holiday memories.
My tip: Leave at least one afternoon of your itinerary completely free. You never know what you’ll discover.
Choosing where to stay in Queenstown can make a big difference to your experience.
For our recent girls’ getaway, we stayed at Lakeside on Park Street with MajorDomo, a beautiful luxury holiday home with incredible mountain views.
One of the things I particularly love about staying in a holiday home when travelling with friends is having the space to spend time together.
Instead of retreating to separate hotel rooms, you can enjoy relaxed mornings, share meals and make the accommodation part of the holiday itself.
For families, this can be just as valuable, particularly when you want access to a kitchen, laundry facilities and extra living space.
If you’re planning a winter ski holiday, I’d also recommend considering how easy it will be to reach the mountains from your accommodation.
My tip: When comparing hotels and holiday homes, look at the total cost for your group, parking, location and included facilities rather than just the nightly rate.
One of the things I love most about Queenstown is that it genuinely works as a year-round destination.
Summer (December to February)
Expect longer days, beautiful lake scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. It’s a wonderful time for walking, winery visits, boat trips and lakeside activities.
Autumn (March to May)
Autumn is particularly beautiful around Arrowtown, where the changing leaves create incredible scenery. It’s also a lovely time for long lunches and exploring the wine region.
Winter (June to August)
If skiing or snowboarding is on your itinerary, winter is the obvious choice. The mountains are spectacular, and Queenstown has a wonderful alpine atmosphere.
Spring (September to November)
Spring brings changing landscapes, blossom trees and a mix of seasonal experiences. It’s a beautiful time for scenic drives, dining and exploring the region.
Personally, I think Queenstown is somewhere you could visit in every season and have a completely different holiday.
If it’s your first visit, I’d recommend allowing at least four or five days.
That gives you enough time to experience Queenstown itself, enjoy a winery day, explore nearby towns and fit in a few activities without feeling too rushed.
If you’re planning a ski holiday or want to include Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, I’d consider staying longer.
Here’s how I would approach a five-day itinerary.
Day 1 — Explore Queenstown
Arrive, settle into your accommodation, walk along Lake Wakatipu, enjoy a Fergburger and take the Skyline Gondola for beautiful views.
Day 2 — Wineries and Long Lunches
Spend the day exploring Central Otago’s wineries. Book lunch at Ayrburn or Amisfield and allow time to visit a couple of cellar doors.
Day 3 — Adventure and Relaxation
Choose an adventure activity such as jet boating or the Skyline Luge, then enjoy a relaxing session at Onsen Hot Pools.
Day 4 — Scenic Drive
Hire a car and explore Arrowtown, Glenorchy or Cardrona. Stop for coffee, take photographs and enjoy the incredible scenery.
Day 5 — A Slow Queenstown Morning
Have breakfast at The Bathhouse, wander through town, enjoy some shopping and make time for one last look at Lake Wakatipu.
If Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound is a priority, dedicate an additional day to it or replace one of the days above.
After visiting Queenstown seven times, there are a few things I always recommend.
Hire a car if you want to explore beyond town. Queenstown itself is easy to enjoy on foot, but having your own vehicle makes wineries, scenic drives and day trips much more convenient.
Book your must-do experiences early. Popular restaurants, Onsen Hot Pools, ski lessons and special experiences can fill up quickly, particularly during peak holiday periods.
Don’t underestimate driving times. Mountain roads, changing weather and frequent photo stops can make journeys longer than expected.
Pack layers, whatever the season. Queenstown’s weather can change quickly, and temperatures can feel very different between town and the mountains.
Make time for good food and wine. Queenstown isn’t only about adventure. Some of my favourite experiences have been beautiful lunches, wonderful restaurants and exploring the wine region.
Leave room for spontaneity. You don’t need every minute planned. Some of the best Queenstown moments happen when you simply slow down and enjoy where you are.
Is Queenstown worth visiting?
Absolutely. Queenstown combines spectacular natural scenery with incredible food, wine, outdoor adventures and beautiful accommodation. It’s a destination that suits couples, families and groups of friends.
Is Queenstown good for families?
Yes! We’ve loved visiting Queenstown with our children. Depending on their ages and interests, families can enjoy skiing, the Skyline Gondola and Luge, scenic cruises, lakeside activities and day trips.
Do you need a car in Queenstown?
Not necessarily if you’re staying in the centre of town and mainly booking organised tours. However, I personally love having a car because it gives us the flexibility to explore wineries, nearby towns and scenic locations.
Is Queenstown expensive?
Queenstown can be an expensive destination, particularly during peak ski season and summer holidays. However, there are plenty of free or low-cost experiences, including lakeside walks, scenic drives and exploring nearby towns.
My approach is to mix special experiences with simple pleasures, so we can enjoy a little luxury without needing every activity to be expensive.
Can you visit Milford Sound from Queenstown in one day?
Yes, but it’s a long day. Coach-and-cruise excursions typically take around 12–13 hours. Scenic flight packages can reduce travel time, subject to weather conditions.
Which is better: Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound?
Both are spectacular, but they offer different experiences.
Milford Sound is famous for its iconic mountain scenery and waterfalls, while Doubtful Sound offers a more remote wilderness experience.
Your choice will depend on how much time you have, your budget and the type of experience you’re looking for.
How many nights should you spend in Queenstown?
For a first visit, four or five nights is a great starting point. I’d allow longer if you want multiple ski days, winery experiences or Fiordland excursions.
After seven visits, Queenstown still manages to surprise me.
I’ve experienced it with my children, enjoyed romantic moments with Ryan and celebrated special occasions with friends.
We’ve spent days skiing, explored beautiful wineries, enjoyed incredible food and wine, and made memories against some of the most spectacular scenery I’ve ever seen.
And yet, some of my favourite moments have been the simplest.
A coffee overlooking Lake Wakatipu. A scenic drive with nowhere in particular to be. A beautiful lunch that turns into an entire afternoon.
That’s what I love about Queenstown.
You can visit for the adventure, the luxury, the food, the scenery or simply the opportunity to spend time with people you love.
And if you’re anything like me, one visit won’t be enough.
Have you visited Queenstown? I’d love to know your favourite experience, restaurant or hidden gem. Leave a comment below!
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