Queenstown was the last stop of our 3-week trip around New Zealand. We were expecting it to be too crowded and touristic, but the fact is that we’ve fallen in love with this little resort town. Yes, you will find many more people than in other places, and the city relies almost completely on the travel industry. On the other hand, Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world, and it is nearly impossible to get bored with so many activities to choose from (you can even go gold panning!). Did we mention that it is probably the most staggering beautiful city we’ve ever seen?
If you don’t know where to begin, here are our favorite things to do, in order to help you plan your Queenstown itinerary!
1. Skyline gondola and luge at the top
Begin at the bottom of the Skyline and get prepared for the steep Gondola ride that will take you up to the Skyline Building. After properly soaking up the INCREDIBLE views of Queenstown, head even higher to start the fun! The Luge is suitable for all family members, and it feels like a real-life Mario Kart race with some awe-inspiring views. We would recommend you buy your tickets on their website to avoid waiting in line.
2. BE ADVENTUROUS - Experience extreme activities
Even if you’re not the adventure type, you’ll feel keen to try something radical simply because it is everywhere! As the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping, Queenstown offers everything you can think of, for instance, Rafting, Skydiving, Mountain Biking, Jetboating, or Parasailing. Plan your days accordingly, but we bet you won’t find the time to do everything you want!
3. SPLURGE A LITTLE - Queenstown aCCOMMODATION
Since Queenstown was our last stop in New Zealand, we knew exactly how much money we had left. Therefore, it gave us the possibility to spend a little more and pick an exceptional accommodation. If it fits your budget, choose one of the many amazing hotels/Airbnb there are in town, as we did by staying at Kamana Lakehouse. This town offers some astonishing views, and it’s well worth some extra money to wake up to them.
4. Head to Glenorchy town
With so much in your hands, try to save some time to drive to the lovely town of Glenorchy. Unfortunately we didn’t have time to visit it which made us very sad due to the amazing stuff we’ve heard. It’s a 50 minutes scenic drive each way, but make sure you pack some food to have a delightful picnic beside the lake.
5. onsen hot pools
If you’re lucky enough to have visited Japan before, you’ve already heard/experienced this bathing tradition. This New Zealand company decided to twist it around, creating a similar relaxation experience, in a very unique setting. The Queenstown Onsen pools get booked up very quickly, so make sure you do it in advance through their website.
Pictures kindly provided by Onsen Hot Pools
6. hiking TRAILS IN QUEENSTOWN
There’s no shortage of fantastic hiking trails in Queenstown. The difficult part is to choose which one is perfect for you!
Queenstown Day Hikes:
- Queenstown Hill
- Ben Lomond Track
- Bob’s Cove Trak
- Moke lake Loop Track (also, search for the Secret Moke Lake Viewpoint)
- Lake Rere Track
- Devil’s Creek Track
- Gibbston River Trail
- Lake Hayes Walkway
- Lake Alta Track
Great Walks accessible from Queenstown
- Routeburn ( You can also opt to just walk a section of the 32km trail, on a day hike)
- Milford Track
- Kepler
Check out the Official Department of Conservation website to find out more details.
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