OceaniaQueenstown
Alpine peaks, high-octane thrills, and cool-climate Pinot Noir.
Why visit
The case for going
Queenstown's reputation as the adventure capital is well-earned, born from its dramatic glacial landscape of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountains.
This same geology carved Milford Sound, making it an accessible day trip from the town, placing world-class alpine hiking, jet boating, and bungy jumping just minutes from a glass of Central Otago Pinot Noir.
What to do
Ways to spend a day
Activities 100-300 EUR total
- 01Bungy jump from the iconic Kawarau Bridge — book on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)
- 02Experience the Shotover Jet boat thrill ride — book on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)
- 03Take a day trip cruise through Milford Sound — book on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)
- 04Hike the Ben Lomond Track or part of the Queenstown Trail — book on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)
- 05Enjoy a wine tasting tour in Central Otago — book on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)
Alpine peaks, high-octane thrills, and cool-climate Pinot Noir.
Where to stay
The right base
Accommodation 60-120 EUR/night
Queenstown
Queenstown Central
Fernhill
Arrowtown
Arrowtown
How to get there
Easiest way in
How to get around
Once you land
Within Queenstown, the Orbus local bus system covers main areas, while many core activities are walkable from the centre. For Milford Sound and Central Otago wineries, guided coach tours or a rental car offer the best access.
What to eat
Order this
Food 20-40 EUR/day
- TasteAtlas (opens in a new tab)
New Zealand lamb
farm-to-table roasts
- TasteAtlas (opens in a new tab)
Fish and Chips
battered fish, fried potatoes
- TasteAtlas (opens in a new tab)
Whitebait Fritters
delicate fish patties
- TasteAtlas (opens in a new tab)
Hokey Pokey ice cream
vanilla, honeycomb pieces
By the numbers
Cards on the table
Safety index
92/100
General guide, not advisory data
Best seasons
Spring · Summer · Fall
When it's at its best
Fly into
ZQN
Queenstown Airport
Daily spend
$$$
A splurge
How to fit in
Read the room
Embrace the 'give it a go' attitude; even if you're not bungy jumping, try the shorter walks that lead to incredible views, then unwind at one of the lakeside bars as the sun sets over the Remarkables.
How to pack
What goes in the bag
Best in Spring
Spring: mild, clear days around 10-18C, ideal for hiking and watersports, with alpine flowers in bloom.
- sturdy hiking shoes
- versatile waterproof layers
- quick-dry activewear
- swimsuit for hot tubs
- strong sunscreen for the intense alpine sun
How to prepare
The boring bits
- Open (opens in a new tab)
Get a local eSIM
Airalo
- Open (opens in a new tab)
Travel insurance
SafetyWing
- Open (opens in a new tab)
Check entry requirements
Visa & vaccinations
Tomorrow's detour
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