Queenstown

Travel Guide

A large white boat with a red funnel and cabin, sailing on a turquoise lake with mountains in the background.
A red jet boat named "SHOTOVER" moving through clear water near a rocky shore.
A white boat docked at a pier with a floating bar named "Perky" and a sign that says "OPEN COME ABOARD".
A cable car system over a lake with a town below.
A coastal town with a lake, mountains, and dense forests.

Travel to Queenstown for stunning mountain views, botanical gardens, local crafts, and a range of outdoor adventures.

Queenstown is an ideal destination for outdoor and scenery travelers. You can explore the Queenstown Gardens, a botanical garden that showcases a variety of plants, or visit Steamer Wharf, a popular tourist precinct with shops and dining options. For a stunning view, head to Bob's Peak, a mountain that offers breathtaking panoramas. You can also enjoy activities like the Skyline Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Luge for an adventurous ride. If you prefer hiking, the Ben Lomond Track provides a great trail, while the Queenstown Ice Arena is perfect for ice skating.

Spend some time exploring the different neighborhoods of Queenstown. Sunshine Bay, Fernhill, and Queenstown City Centre are known for outdoor and scenic experiences. In Fernhill, you can hike the Mt Crichton Loop Track, while the City Centre features attractions like Toi o Tahuna, a gallery, and the Cookie Time Cookie Bar for a sweet treat. Additionally, the Creative Queenstown Arts & Crafts Market offers a taste of local craftsmanship. Each area has its unique charm, making them worth a visit.

The best time to visit Queenstown is from December to March, when the weather is cool, mostly dry, and often sunny. During these months, you can enjoy outdoor activities without the challenge of heavy rain. While this period attracts many travelers, making accommodations in advance can help you secure your plans. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder months, but be aware that the weather may vary.

Queenstown Travel Guide Video

Where to stay in Queenstown

Find the best Queenstown areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Queenstown
Learn more about Queenstown

Queenstown City Centre

The panoramic lake views and popular shops are just a few highlights of Queenstown City Centre. Make a stop by Skycity Queenstown Casino or Queenstown Mall while you're exploring the area.

Fernhill

Fernhill is well-regarded for its captivating mountain views, ample dining options, and fantastic lake views, and you might also want to make a stop by Lake Wakatipu, a top sight in the neighborhood.

Frankton

Frankton is known for its lake views, and you can plan a trip to Remarkables Park Town Centre and Lake Wakatipu while you're in town.

Sunshine Bay

Mountain views and restaurants are just a few things travelers like about Sunshine Bay. A stop by Lake Wakatipu is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.

Boydtown

Though Boydtown might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Skyline Queenstown and Kiwi Park.

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

4 out of 5
16 - 18 Mountain Ash Drive Queenstown
$152 nightly
The price is $174 total per night from Dec 12 to Dec 13
$174 total
Dec 12 - Dec 13
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this aparthotel in Queenstown. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour fitness center, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,700 reviews)
"Quiet spot nice staff"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Kamana Lakehouse

Kamana Lakehouse

4.5 out of 5
139 Fernhill Road Queenstown
$229 nightly
The price is $265 total per night from Dec 12 to Dec 13
$265 total
Dec 12 - Dec 13
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Queenstown. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and hot springs on site. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
Kamana Lakehouse
Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central

4 out of 5
24 Frankton Road Queenstown
$204 nightly
The price is $235 total per night from Dec 12 to Dec 13
$235 total
Dec 12 - Dec 13
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Queenstown. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,082 reviews)
"Lack of furniture, cigarette smell inside of room, lack of amenities, lack of customer service and etiquette by desk people, cleaning of room deficient"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Ramada by Wyndham Queenstown Central
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown

4 out of 5
16 - 18 Mountain Ash Drive Queenstown
Stay at this aparthotel in Queenstown. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour fitness center, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,700 reviews)
"Quiet spot nice staff"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

La Quinta by Wyndham Remarkables Park Queenstown
Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown

5 out of 5
110 Frankton Road Queenstown
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Queenstown. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,601 reviews)
"Nice big open room and received a upgrade"

Reviewed on Nov 9, 2026

Swiss-Belsuites Pounamu Queenstown
Garden Court Suites And Apartments

Garden Court Suites And Apartments

4.5 out of 5
41 Frankton Road Queenstown
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Queenstown. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,122 reviews)
"Ours was a large, clean room with a small outside space. Not sure if it was a disabled room as it was one of 2 near the accessable parking spaces, the bed was quite low as were the chairs and toilet. However the microwave was high and the toilet very close to the sink not giving much movability. ..."

Reviewed on Nov 10, 2026

Garden Court Suites And Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Getting around Queenstown

Renting a car for your stay in Queenstown is the best way to get around, since you’re likely to travel out into the countryside. Car rental companies can be found in town or at the airport. Motorhomes and campervans are popular rental choices, and offer fun ways of seeing the beautiful landscape. In Queenstown itself, explore on foot, use the affordable public bus network or travel by taxi. Visit the The New Zealand Transport Agency Opens in a new window website.Browse Queenstown rental cars.

Stay near popular Queenstown attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Queenstown worth visiting?
Queenstown is worth visiting for its standout attractions like Skyline Queenstown and Queenstown Gardens. Travelers can also enjoy a diverse food scene, with Asian and Italian dining options, and explore distinct areas such as Queenstown City Centre and Frankton.
When is the best time to visit Queenstown?
The best time to visit Queenstown is from December through March, when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities. For fewer crowds and better value, the cooler months of June through September are a good option, offering opportunities for winter sports.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Queenstown?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Queenstown depend on what you want to see:


What is Queenstown known for?
Queenstown is known for attractions like Skyline Queenstown, which offers great views and activities. Travelers can also explore the beautiful Queenstown Gardens and find shopping at Queenstown Mall. The city also has a strong Asian food culture, providing diverse dining options.
What is a good itinerary length for Queenstown?
A good itinerary length for Queenstown is two to three days to experience highlights like Skyline Queenstown, Queenstown Gardens, and Queenstown Mall. An extended stay of four to five days allows travelers to enjoy activities such as a Small-Group Zipline Adventure or a Half-Day Guided Routeburn Track Walk, and explore areas like Queenstown City Centre and Frankton more thoroughly. See Queenstown Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Queenstown?
Queenstown offers thrilling adventures, beautiful natural spaces, and unique local attractions for travelers to enjoy:


How do I plan a trip to Queenstown?
To plan your Queenstown trip, search for places to stay in Queenstown City Centre or Frankton. Book flights, rental cars, and popular activities like a Small-Group Zipline Adventure or a Half-Day Guided Routeburn Track Walk in advance. When planning, remember to pair outdoor activities with indoor options for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Queenstown?
In Queenstown, travelers can find Thai cuisine, with dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum soup. You'll also discover other Asian options, including Japanese, Chinese, and Indian. Additionally, there are Italian and European choices, as well as dedicated seafood and steakhouse restaurants.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Queenstown?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Queenstown by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Queenstown with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Queenstown trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Queenstown?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Queenstown can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Queenstown trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Queenstown trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Queenstown trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Queenstown trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Queenstown?
If it's your first trip to Queenstown, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Queenstown hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Queenstown hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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