I've been to Queenstown about 8 times- we got married there! I'm about to take another trip in a few weeks so rather than giving general recs, I figured why not share exactly what I would do if I was planning the perfect Queenstown trip (for a first ...
Map
Sections
6
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Hotels
Day 1
Your first day in Queenstown shoud be all about exploring and getting to know the town, so lets do just that
Spend your day just walking around the main part of town, including the lakefront. There are tons of interesting shops to pop into!
Lake Wakatipu
Some of the best eats in Queenstown <3
Eating My Way Around Queenstown | Ratings, Prices, Ferburger and More!
Getting out onto Lake Wakatipu is an absolute must in Queenstown and TSS Earnslaw accomplishes just that + this tour combines lunch
TSS Earnslaw and BBQ Buffet Lunch in Queenstown
Take the Gondola up (or hike the Tiki Trail up if you're up for it) and take the luge down
Skyline Queenstown
Dinner with a view- take the Gondola up for the best view in Queenstown
Stratosfare Restaurant
Day 2
Let's get to know Queenstown a bit better and visit some famous places
Spend your morning relaxing and walking the botanic gardens with a nice coffee. If you come during Autumn (or anytime) you won't regret it
Queenstown Gardens
Hot take- I actually prefer another burger spot in town (Devil Burgers) but if its your first time, Fergburger is a must. Its famous for a reason
Fergburger
This short 1- hour hike takes you up to the top of the Gondola and is perfect for working up a hunger
Tiki Trail- Top Station
Go to Bunker for dinner- they have a chef's tasting menu that highlights native Kiwi foods
The Bunker | Restaurant Cocktail and Late Night Bar
There are actually two locations of Patagonia Chocolates in town, with one being right on the main thoroughfare- you can't miss it. Have a gelato or hot chocolate before bed!
Most of your day will be spent on a day trip then head somewhere lowkey for dinner because you'll be exhausted!
A trip to Queenstown isn't complete without a side quest to Milford Sounds. Overnight trips are available but personally, I think a day trip is sufficient
Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour from Queenstown
While I recommend visiting Wanaka for at least 2 days, a day trip is possible! This tour also visits Arrowtown
Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour from Queenstown
If Lord of the Rings is your thing, you're in the right country
Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown
If you've got the energy for a pre-dinner drink, go to Habana Bar to pretend you're in Cuba for a moment
Habana Boutique Rum Bar
Another great spot in Queenstown, perfect to end your night
Boardwalk
Day 4
This is the ‘Treat Yourself Day’- live luxuriously from start to finish
My personal favorite cafe in town. I come here everytime! Come for breakfast or coffee before you start your day
Bespoke Kitchen
One of the most famous views in Queenstown. Spend your morning soaking in an onsen while you overlook Shotover Canyon
Onsen Hot pools and day spa experiences
Heralded as the finest meal in Queenstown. Its doesn't come cheap but it will be an experience you'll never forget. Come for lunch or dinner
Amisfield
End your night with a cocktail from Little Blackwood
Little Blackwood
Day 5
If you have time for another day, I'd spend it looking below the surface a bit
Queenstown is the birthplace of Bungy Jumping. If you've got the stomach for it, take the chance to do it here!
Bungy Jumping | AJ Hackett Bungy NZ
If you come during the winter, you can't miss out on world class skiing
The Remarkables Ski Area
Lastly, if you have the time and energy- a hike is a must. This trail will take you 6-8 hours
Ben Lomond Track via Skyline Road - New Zealand - AllTrails
Hotels
Queenstown isn't exactly a budget destination but there are some nice hotels that won't break the bank!
QT is my favorite hotel chain in Australia and New Zealand and the Queenstown lives up to the expectation. This is where we stayed the weekend we got married
QT Queenstown, Queenstown, New Zealand
The Sherwood has got a bit of a summercamp feel to it!
Sherwood, Queenstown, New Zealand
Ski Chalet style- which frankly fits as Queenstown definitely feels like a ski town
Heartland Hotel Queenstown, Queenstown, New Zealand
A more budget option, but if youre like me- a hotel is just a place to lay your head
Ramada Suites by Wyndham Queenstown Remarkables Park, Queenstown, New Zealand
