We have put the ultimate Queenstown itinerary together for you. From adventure sports and outdoor activities to fine dining and luxury accommodations, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
A 7-day itinerary is a perfect way to experience the best of what Queenstown and the surrounding area have to offer. This itinerary provides a mix of adrenaline adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxation places to stay and eat. You will have the best opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and rich culture of the region. This itinerary can be extended, shorten and day trips can be alternated this itinerary to suit your trip specifically.
Day 1: Explore Queenstown
After arriving in Queenstown, take some time to explore the town and get settled into your accommodation. There are plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. For those looking for luxury, several upscale hotels and resorts offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Wakatipu. Check out the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa or the Heritage Hotel. Alternatively, there are also many budget-friendly options such as The Tahuna Pod Hostel or Absoloot Hostel QT, that provide comfortable and affordable accommodations.
Queenstown is a small town, so it's easy to walk around and discover the many shops, cafes, and restaurants that line the streets. Take a stroll down Camp Street to explore the number of adrenaline-pumping activities on offer. We have outlined some highly recommended attractions in this itinerary.
One of the top things to do in Queenstown is to visit Skyline Queenstown. Take a ride on the Skyline Gondola, which provides spectacular views of the Wakatipu Basin and surrounding mountains. At the top of the gondola, hop into the driving seat at the Skyline Luge, where you can race down the mountain against your friends on a self-controlled cart. You can enjoy a meal at the Skyline Restaurant or ride the Gondola back to town to dine at one of Queenstown's many excellent restaurants.
For dinner, Fergburger is a favourite with visitors and locals, FOGOs Brazilian BBQ Experience serves up delicious lamb, beef and chicken dishes or treats yourself to a delicious meal with Blu Kanu.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures in Queenstown
After a good night's sleep, start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of the many delicious breakfast places in Queenstown. Check out Yonder which caters for any dietary requirement or Vudu Café & Larder which makes a tasty cup of coffee.
On day 2 of this itinerary, it is time to experience your first thrill-seeking and exhilarating experience. Choose from skydiving, paragliding, white water rafting or canyon swinging. There are many activities to get your heart racing! Our recommendation is to take a jet boat ride on the Shotover River. Book with Shotover Jet who will take you on a jet boat ride like you never have experienced before. Hold on tight while you jet through narrow canyons and deep gorges. They have located a short 8-minute drive from Queenstown.
To recover after your adrenaline rush, make your way to the Onsen Hot Pools, only a 4-minute drive from Shotover Jet. It is a boutique retreat and day spa with pools that are fed by natural hot springs. Enjoy a soak in the hot pools while taking in the wonderful view of the Shotover River. It’s the perfect place to sit back and unwind.
After your soak in the hot pools, head back to town for dinner at one of Queenstown's many excellent restaurants and get ready for your next day of exploring.
Day 3: Arrowtown Day Trip
Drive time: 20 minutes (19.7 km)
On day 3 of the itinerary, a full day has been allocated to explore Arrowtown. This historic and charming town is a short 20-minute drive from Queenstown. Established back in 1862 during Otago’s Gold Rush, when you arrive in this town you will feel like you have stepped back in time. Much of the architecture in the town still resembles the style from that era.
First, visit the Lake District Museum & Gallery, located in the heart of town. The museum offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of the region, with displays of artifacts and exhibits that tell the history of the Wakatipu region.
Next, take a short stroll from the town to visit the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement. The settlement is a historic site that offers a glimpse into the lives of the Chinese gold miners who once lived in the area. The settlement features restored buildings, exhibits, and a museum that tells the story of the Chinese community.
For lunch, Arrowtown has an awesome selection of restaurants. Check out The Chop Shop Food Merchants, Slow Cuts or the Arrowtown Bakery to refuel for more activities in the afternoon.
The landscape surrounding the town is simply stunning especially if you visit in autumn time. Before you leave, explore the many walking and biking trails along the river arrow including Tobins Track, Sawpit Gully or Arrowtown Millennium Walk. Or you can try your luck at gold panning at the river where the workers spent a lot of time hoping to find their fortune.
After you have struck gold (hopefully) make your way back into Queenstown to enjoy dinner and drinks and rest up for the next day of exploring.
Day 4: Milford Sound Day Trip
Drive time 3 hours 35 minutes (288 km)
While staying in Queenstown, it is highly recommended to book a day tour of Milford Sound. On day 4 of the itinerary, we have assigned a full day for you to explore this stunning natural wonder that offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.
To visit Milford Sound from Queenstown, you can book a guided tour or self-drive. A guided tour usually includes transportation to and from Milford Sound and a boat cruise on the sound itself. This is a convenient option, as it takes care of all the logistics and allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenery.
If you decided to self-drive to Milford Sound, it takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Queenstown. This option allows you more flexibility to stop and explore along the way. The drive to Milford Sound is scenic, with several highlights to see en route, including the Mirror Lakes, the Chasm, and the Eglington Valley.
The most popular activity is a boat cruise on the sound, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the chance to see dolphins, seals, and other wildlife. You can also book a kayak tour on the sound.
Please be aware if you plan to self-drive, Milford Road is busy with cars, campervans, and tour buses. In the winter months, snow chains must be carried in case of snowfall on the road.
Day 5: Wanaka Day Trip
Drive time: 1 hour 7 mins via Crowne Range (68.4 km)
Drive time: 1 hour 29 mins via State Hwy 6 (111 km)
On day 5, your itinerary will take you on a day trip to Wanaka. Located just a short drive from Queenstown, Wanaka is a picturesque town that offers stunning scenery and a wide range of tourist activities.
From Queenstown, driving over the Crowne Range is the fastest way to get to Wanaka. The Crowne range is the highest main road in New Zealand and reaches an altitude of 1121m. Make sure you stop at the lookout point to take in the beautiful views of Queenstown & Gibbston Valley. Please be mindful, the road is steep and with sharp turns in some sections. If you don’t feel comfortable driving on this type of road, there is an alternative route. When leaving Queenstown, take State Highway 6 which will take you through the Gibbston Valley and past Cromwell.
Once you arrive in Wanaka, you will be treated to magnificent views of Lake Wanaka. Enjoy the beautiful scenery by getting out on the water. Wanaka offers a range of water-based activities. Hire a kayak or paddle board with Paddle Wanaka. Or book a boat trip with Wanaka Water Taxi to visit Mou Waho Island and Ruby Island.
If you would prefer to stay on land, there’s still plenty to see and do. Visit the Lavender Farm, just outside Wanaka where you can experience 20 acres of lavender fields, honey tasting, farm animals and display gardens. Test your brain at Puzzling World with different games to complete, illusion rooms and the great maze. If the weather takes a turn for the worst, go see a movie at Cinema Paradiso. Sit back and relax on their comfy sofas with a serving of their homemade ice cream and cookies.
If you are a keen hiker, Wanaka is the place to be! There are many trails to choose from, but the most popular day hike is the Roy Peaks track. The track is located just outside of the town, it is a 16km return and steeply climbs to 1,500m but it is worthwhile for the amazing views from the summit.
Or you can take on an easier stroll, and enjoy the walkways along the lake or Mt Iron track which offers panoramic views of the township.
Before heading back to Queenstown, enjoy a meal in one of the many restaurants along the lakefront. Choose from Indian, bar, or Chinese food, or head to Brownstown Street to order from the food trucks.
Day 6 Gibbston Valley Day Trip
Drive time to Gibbston Valley: 30 minutes (28.5 km)
On day 6 of the itinerary, we have included time to explore Gibbston Valley, home to some of New Zealand’s best vineyards. Located a short 30-minute drive from Queenstown, spend the day visiting vineyards to learn about their wine-making process and try some tastings. You can choose to drive yourself or book a guided vineyard tour where you will bring to visit a selection of wineries. If you are self-driving, remember to choose a designated driver!
A popular activity is a winery bike tour, where you can enjoy a leisurely bike ride to a choice of vineyards. The tours include drop off and pick up, so you don’t need to worry about transport from Queenstown. This is certainly a must-do activity for any wine enthusiasts!
Day 7 Before Departing Queenstown
For your final morning in Queenstown, take some time to enjoy being in this beautiful place. Take a stroll in the picturesque Queenstown Gardens which has views of Lake Wakatipu. It’s an ideal place to take a moment to relax and take in the stunning views.
Or take a walk-up Queenstown Hill walk, one of the local’s favourite tracks. The track is 4.2km long and offers spectacular views of the township and surrounding areas. It is a great way to get some air and reflect on your week of adventure before hitting the road again before to your next destination.
Overall, a trip to Queenstown will be an unforgettable experience. Whether, you are an adventure seeker, foodie, wine enthusiast, or history fan, there’s something for everyone on this 7-Day itinerary. We hope this itinerary will help you plan the best adventure when you visit Queenstown. Happy travels from all of us at __mode!
