OceaniaQueenstown
Alpine peaks, high-octane thrills, and cool-climate Pinot Noir.
Why visit
01 / 10The 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
02 / 10Ways to spend a day
Activities €100–300 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)
Book activities & tickets
Alpine peaks, high-octane thrills, and cool-climate Pinot Noir.
Where to stay
03 / 10The right base
Accommodation €60–120/night
In Queenstown
Queenstown Central
the lakefront hub, bars and adventure desks
Fernhill
hillside above town, quieter, big views
In Arrowtown
Arrowtown
a gold-rush village, calmer, autumn colour
Find a place to stay
How to get there
04 / 10Easiest way in
How to get around
05 / 10Once 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.
Get around
What to eat
06 / 10Order this
Food €20–40/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
07 / 10Cards on the table
Safety index
92/100
General guide, not advisory data
Best seasons
Spring · Summer · Fall
When it's at its best
Stay for
5 days
The sweet spot
Daily spend
$$$
A splurge
How to fit in
08 / 10Read 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
09 / 10What 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
10 / 10The boring bits
Three things worth sorting before you fly.
Tomorrow's detour
One place worth the trip.
Hand-picked, one a day.