By the time my New Zealand trip took me to Queenstown, I had already spent almost 10 days with my jaw on the floor. Everywhere I went, it seemed, was more beautiful than everywhere I’d just been.
Then I got to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital.
Whether you jump out of a plane like I did, or simply take a boat trip along the Milford Sound, I hope you’ll find my Queenstown itinerary inspiring. Certainly, Queenstown is one of many places in New Zealand that will take your breath away.
Where to Stay in Queenstown
The first step of planning a trip to Queenstown is finding a place to stay. Some travelers prefer hotels, such as Sofitel Queenstown or Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, which is right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Personally, however, I’ve found that Airbnb apartments are more affordable and also more unique, particularly if you wish to stay outside the busy town center.
One thing many travelers don’t realize is that Queenstown is home to two casinos. However, these are not Integrated Resort (IR) properties with hotels attached. As a result, some casino gaming-minded travelers may prefer to try their luck with online pokies, be the game of choice blackjack or poker. That way, you can spend your days exploring and enjoying adventure, instead of inside some dark, smoky room.
My Favorite Things to Do in Queenstown
Go skydiving (or bungee jumping)
Without a doubt, my favorite memory of Queenstown was jumping out of a plane several miles above the ground, even if the jump technically took place in Wanaka instead of Queenstown. One Queenstown adventure activity I didn’t consider, however, was bungee jumping. Although bungee operators here have an impeccable safety record, it’s just not something I can imagine myself doing at this point.
Take a jet boat ride
Another exhilarating pursuit you might consider adding to your Queenstown itinerary is a jet boat ride. Although the particulars of both the vehicle and the route it will follow may vary depending on which company you choose, the experience is the same: Speeding atop the water in a way that will make you feel like you’re quite literally rocketing along its surface.
Travel onward to Milford Sound
The bad news? Although Milford Sound looks close to Queenstown on the map, it’s actually nearly four hours by car; many travelers (particularly well-heeled ones) decide to hop propeller plane flights to get there. The good news? If you can bear the drive (or don’t mind taking an all-inclusive tour), a visit to the Sound is very worth it. It evokes the fjords of Norway, albeit without the colorful villages along both sides of it.
(Or Lakes Wanaka and Tekapo)
For some travelers, the larger South Island experience is just as important as the Queenstown itinerary itself. I can empathize with this: It wasn’t until I had spent a day frolicking amid the lupines of Lake Tekapo, and marveling at the bizarre tree submerged in Lake Wanaka that I was able to properly appreciate Queenstown, both its heart-racing adventure tourism, as well as its creature comforts.
Don’t neglect the town center
Indeed, whether because of casinos, hotels or restaurants serving up cuisine from all around the world, downtown Queenstown is developed to an extent that very few other South Island road trip destinations are. Additionally, once you’ve finished eating and drinking, or simply walking along the lake shore, you can ascend the Skyline Queenstown cable car for one of New Zealand’s most stunning panoramas.
How Many Days Do You Need in Queenstown?
I would generally say to spend a day in Queenstown for each activity you plan to do. So if you plan to skydive or bungee jump, go for a jet boat ride, and take a day trip to Milford Sound, I’d suggest spending at least 3 days in Queenstown. You may even spend four, in this case: Weather can cause your skydiving time to get pushed back or even canceled, so you’ll need to be flexible.
Another reason that spending more days in Queenstown rather than less makes the most sense? Queenstown is relatively far away, geographically speaking. It’s a half-day drive from Christchurch, and several hours from Tekapo, Wanaka and Aoraki/Mt. Cook. Therefore, it would be more worth it to spend more days and explore the location in this case.
Other FAQ About Visiting Queenstown
Is Queenstown the most beautiful place on Earth?
Queenstown is a very beautiful city, but it’s hard to say it’s the most beautiful place on earth, or even in Middle Earth (aka New Zealand). What I will say is that seeing the mountains rising above Lake Wakatipu is a sight for sore eyes after the long drive to get there!
Which is better to visit, Auckland or Queenstown?
If you’re looking for a proper city with distinct districts, lots of co-working spaces and excellent air connections, Auckland is your best choice. Choose Queenstown, meanwhile, if adventure activities and a laid-back, small-town vibe are more your speed.
Why do tourists go to Queenstown?
Tourists go to Queenstown for adventure. In the summer, this entails skydiving, bungee jumping and jet-boating; in winter, it’s all about skiing. There are some travelers that come here for the general ambience of the lakeside town center, although not very many.
The Bottom Line
Have you finished planning your Queenstown itinerary yet? New Zealand’s adventure capital has something for everyone. whether you ride the Skyline cable car for an unforgettable panorama, or have a truly adrenaline-inducing experience like jet boating or even skydiving. Queenstown is also the closest major city to Milford Sound, whose fjords are one of New Zealand’s most uniquely beautiful places. Which, let me tell you, is a tough competition in a place as fiercely gorgeous as New Zealand’s South Island. Need personalized help planning your New Zealand trip? Consider hiring me as your Travel Coach!
