Queenstown New Zealand 3 Day Itinerary

Queenstown, New Zealand: 3-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on the classic Queenstown experiences, with options for adventure and relaxation. Feel free to adjust it based on your personal preferences and energy levels!

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Queenstown Backpackers, Nomads Queenstown, YHA Queenstown Lakefront Hostel
  • Mid-Range: The Rees Hotel & Residences, Rydges Lakeland Resort Queenstown, Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
  • Luxury: Eichardt’s Private Hotel, The Spire Hotel, Sofitel Queenstown

Day 1: Adventure & Adrenaline

Morning:

  • Activity (9am - 12pm): Start your day with an exhilarating adventure! Choose from one of these iconic Queenstown experiences:
    • Bungy Jumping: Head to the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping and take the plunge with AJ Hackett Bungy or other reputable operators. Enjoy breathtaking views while conquering your fears.

Afternoon:

  • Activity (12pm - 4pm): Shotover Jet - Experience the thrill of the “world’s most exciting jet boat ride” as you skim across the rapids and navigate through a narrow canyon on this high-speed adventure.
  • Food (Lunch & Dinner): Grab a quick bite at Fergburger in Queenstown for a legendary burger experience before your afternoon activity. For dinner, enjoy a scenic lakeside meal at Botswana Butchery (reservations recommended).

Evening:

  • Activity: Take a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and enjoy the stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range.
  • Food: Grab a drink and some delicious food at The Cow Restaurant & Bar, known for its relaxed atmosphere and tasty pizzas.

Accommodation Options:

  • Budget: Experience the social scene at Queenstown Backpackers or stay in a cozy cabin with scenic views at the YHA.

  • Mid-Range: Enjoy a luxurious lakeside experience with a stunning view of the mountains while you stay at the Rees Hotel.

Night:

  • Relax and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Queenstown.

  • Budget: Check out the bars and pubs along the waterfront, like The World Bar or Atlas Beer Cafe.

  • Mid-Range: Enjoy a craft beer with a view at The Bunker or try their cocktails at the top floor bar.

Evening: Catch a movie at the historic Dorothy Brown’s Cinema in Queenstown, or enjoy a delicious dinner and drinks at one of the many bars and restaurants along the waterfront.

Things to Consider for Day 1:

  • Weather: Check the weather forecast and be prepared for changes as it can be unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproof clothing and jackets, and sturdy footwear for hiking.

  • Fitness Level: Be honest about your fitness level when booking adventure activities. Some, like the Shotover Jet, may require a certain level of physical ability.

  • Reservations: Booking in advance for the jet boat ride is highly recommended.

Day 2: Exploring Nature & Relaxation

Morning:

  • Activity (9am - 12pm):

    • Take a scenic hike up one of the Queenstown Hill trails (Queenstown Hill Time Walk is a popular option).
    • Enjoy the stunning views from the Skyline Gondola.

  • Food:

    • Lunch: Grab a delicious lunch at the top of the gondola with panoramic views of the lake and mountains.

Afternoon:

  • Activity: Relax by the shores of Lake Wakatipu, enjoying a picnic (pack your own or grab some goodies from a local deli) while soaking in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
  • Enjoy: A leisurely boat ride on the lake, cruising among the breathtaking scenery and taking in the fresh mountain air.

Evening:

  • Dinner: Experience the culinary delights of Queenstown with a fancy dinner at Rata, a restaurant focusing on local ingredients and offering a delicious tasting menu.

Day 3: Adventure & Culture

  • Morning:

    • Visit the Arrowtown Village - Explore its charming historic streets, browse through unique shops and art galleries, or enjoy a coffee and pastry at one of the cozy cafes while soaking up the gold rush atmosphere.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy an adrenaline-pumping activity like whitewater rafting or canyon swinging on your last day.

  • Food:

  • Dinner: Indulge in a final meal with a view, enjoying the fresh catch of the day at The Cow Restaurant and Bar.

  • Evening: Try a local brewery for dinner like Altitude Brewing - enjoying a final taste of Queenstown’s adventurous spirit.

  • Explore: Experience the rich history and culture of Queenstown with a visit to the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement, a preserved 19th-century village, or enjoy a show at the Queenstown Skyline Complex.

Things to note for your nature & adventure experience:

  • Day 2:

  • Fitness Level: For a more relaxed day: Consider a leisurely stroll through the Queenstown Gardens, enjoying a stunning view of the lake and surrounding mountains.

    • Morning: Enjoy the peaceful setting and take in the beauty of Lake Wakatipu from the shores while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.

  • Transportation:

  • Bus: The local bus system (Orbus) is efficient and can get you to most locations in and around Queenstown.

  • Car: Rent a car for easier access to scenic spots outside the town center, but be prepared for winding roads.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Available within the city limits, convenient for short trips.

  • Walking: Explore the vibrant Queenstown Gardens on foot!

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing:

  • Uber and Ola are popular options for getting around town.

  • Gondola rides: Enjoy a relaxing ride to the top of Bob’s Peak and soak in the stunning views from the Queenstown Skyline Complex.

  • Carpooling:

  • Consider using a carpool service: For those who want to be more adventurous and explore areas outside the town, try a local carpool service for a scenic drive up to the Remarkables mountain range.

Things to note about transportation in general:

  • Parking: Parking in Queenstown can be limited and expensive, especially during peak season. It’s best to utilize your accommodation and public transport for travel.

  • Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the town center of Queenstown, which has a compact layout and many attractions within walking distance.

  • Alternative Transportation:

    • Consider using public transport: Queenstown is a walkable town with many attractions within walking distance from the centre.

  • Car: Consider the cost of parking (often $10-20 per hour in downtown areas) and potential traffic congestion during peak season.

  • Walking & Hiking:

    • Utilize Queenstown’s scenic walking trails for exploring the town and enjoy a cheap and cheerful way to travel around, but be aware that some may be crowded during peak times.

Enjoy:

  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy the stunning scenery and take in the fresh air while experiencing the beauty of Queenstown.

  • Public Transport: Consider using the Orbus system for transportation within Queenstown.

  • Travel:

  • Try a local bus: Shotover Brewing Co. offers scenic brewery tours with a focus on the history and process of brewing.

  • Enjoy: Enjoy the stunning views from the top of the gondola, which is a popular tourist attraction.

  • Consider: Consider joining a tour for a unique way to explore Queenstown’s breathtaking scenery.

Remember:

  • Check the weather: The weather in Queenstown can be unpredictable. Be sure to check the forecast and dress accordingly.
  • Book early: Popular tours and activities fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It’s recommended to book in advance.

Day 3:

  • Enjoy: Enjoy a day of relaxation and exploring the natural beauty of Queenstown.

  • Consider:

  • Try a gondola ride: The Queenstown Gondola is a great option for short trips to the top of the mountains, offering various options for scenic views and outdoor activities.

This is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your interests. For example, if you’re into adventure:

  • You could go bungy jumping off the Kawarau Bridge or white-water rafting in the nearby rivers.
  • Explore the stunning Queenstown Gardens with its picturesque trails and views of Lake Wakatip

Things to consider:

Enjoy: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Queenstown, a charming town nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Gondola options:

  • Day 3:

  • Consider: The Queenarrow Queenstown Gondola offers a variety of adventure activities and stunning views of the lake and mountains.

Enjoy the experience!