Queenstown New Zealand 6 Day Itinerary

Queenstown, New Zealand: 6-Day Adventure Itinerary

This itinerary is designed for the adventurous traveler who wants to experience everything Queenstown has to offer. It’s packed with activities, but feel free to adjust it based on your interests and energy levels!

Transportation:

  • Within Queenstown: The town center is easily walkable. You can also use the local bus system or taxis for getting around.
  • Getting Around Queenstown:
    • Walking/Biking: For exploring beyond the city center, consider walking trails like the Queenstown Hill Time Walk (amazing views!) or biking along the Frankton Track. The Queenstown Hill Hike is a great way to get your bearings and explore the beautiful scenery.
  • Public Transport: Queenstown has a reliable bus network that connects most parts of the town and surrounding areas.

Things to Know:

  • Queenstown is in the Central Otago region of New Zealand’s South Island.
  • It’s known as the “Adventure Capital” of the country, offering activities like bungy jumping, skiing, and whitewater rafting.
  • Queenstown is a relatively small town, but it gets busy! Book activities and accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Day 1: Arrival & Scenic Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Queenstown Airport (ZQN). Pick up your rental car or arrange for transport to your accommodation (consider a shuttle from the airport as many tourists prefer this option due to the lack of public transportation).
  • Afternoon: Relax and enjoy the scenic drive from the airport.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious meal at Botswana Butchery, known for its incredible meats and stunning lakeside location.

Activities:

  • Queenstown Gondola & Skyline Luge: Take a ride on the iconic gondola to enjoy panoramic views of the town and lake. Once at the top, experience the thrill of the luge!
  • Hiking: Enjoy a hike up Queenstown Hill for breathtaking scenery or explore the Queenstown Gardens with its peaceful walking paths and beautiful views.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Queenstown Backpackers (hostel), Adventure Queenstown Hostel (hostel)
  • Mid-Range: The Rees Hotel Queenstown (lakeside), Rydges Lakeland Queenstown (mountain views)
  • Luxury:

Food & Drink:

  • Fergburger: This legendary burger joint is a must-visit for any foodie in Queenstown. Be prepared to wait in line, but the burgers are worth it!

Food Recommendations:

  • Botswana Butchery: For a delicious and indulgent meal, try the “Lamb Burger” or the “Hawkeye Burger.”
  • Fergburger: A local favorite with long lines, but you can’t miss their famous “Fergburger” experience.

Things to Do:

  • Explore the Queenstown Gardens: Walk through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and mountains.

Other:

  • Evening: Relax in your accommodation, soak in the views (if applicable), and explore the local area for a scenic evening walk.

Evening:

  • Enjoy a delicious and indulgent meal at the “Fergburger” of Queenstown.

Day 2: Queenstown Adventure Day

  • Morning: Start with a hearty breakfast at “The World Bar,” known for its international cuisine and laid-back atmosphere.
  • Afternoon: Choose your own Queenstown adventure!

Things to do:

  • Go Bungy Jumping: Queenstown is the birthplace of bungy jumping, so why not try it where it all began? The Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump offers an adrenaline-pumping experience with incredible views of the river below.

  • Explore the Queenstown Hill Time Walk: Enjoy this exhilarating activity and take in stunning panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.

  • Whitewater Rafting: Take on the rapids on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure.

Food & Drink:

  • Grab lunch at “The Cow Restaurant” for their tasty pies and delicious milkshakes.

Things to do:

  • Try the Queenstown “Burger Burger” for a unique and tasty lunch experience: This restaurant is known for its creative and flavorful pies, a local delicacy. Enjoy a variety of options like steak & cheese, chicken & cranberry, or vegetarian & mushroom.

Day 3: Relaxing Day on the Lake

  • Morning: Enjoy a scenic cruise on the “TSS Earnslaw” – a historic steam ship – across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a delicious breakfast with a view.

Things to do:

  • Take a relaxing afternoon walk along the Queenstown Gardens’ lakeside path.
  • Enjoy the stunning scenery of the lake and mountains while taking a leisurely walk along the Queenstown Trail.

Day 4: Adventure in the Mountains

  • Enjoy breathtaking views and fresh mountain air with a morning hike.
  • Experience the thrill of the “Queenstown Skyline Gondola” for lunch: Many restaurants offer fantastic views at the top, or you can pack a picnic to enjoy on the summit.
  • Grab a bite to eat:

Food & Drink:

  • Enjoy a coffee and pastry: Check out “The Bakery,” known for its delicious sourdough and pastries.

Things to Do:

  • Explore the Queenstown Skyline: Take the gondola up and soak in the stunning views of the lake and mountains.

  • Visit Arrowtown: This historic gold mining town has charming cafes and restaurants.

  • Enjoy a scenic morning walk along the Queenstown Lakeside, stopping for lunch at one of the charming bakeries or cafes.

Day 5: Exploring the History & Culture of Queenstown

  • Take a “Queenstown Heritage Trail” tour to learn about the history of this quaint town and its role in the gold rush.

  • Visit the Arrowtown Historical Museum: Explore the fascinating history of the area.

  • Enjoy a traditional Maori experience for dinner.

  • Consider a visit to the historic “Kawarau Bridge” where the first commercial bungy jump took place.

Day 6: Queenstown Relaxation

  • Enjoy a picnic by the lake with a stunning view of the Remarkables mountain range.
  • Explore the local shops and cafes in the evening: Queenstown is known for its unique shopping experiences.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy a gondola ride and a breathtaking sunset: The views from the top are spectacular, offering a panoramic vista of the surrounding mountains and lake.

  • Relax and enjoy the beauty of Queenstown: Take a stroll through the town’s charming streets and enjoy the variety of local shops and galleries.

  • Experience an evening at the “Skyline Gondola” for breathtaking views.