Our Top 3 Ideas for a relaxing day in queenstown

Looking for ideas for how to spend a relaxing day in Queenstown?

Queenstown has a well-earned reputation for adrenaline and big adventures. Jumping off the historic bridge at the Kawarau Gorge, or thundering down the Shotover River are favourites.

But we love how it’s also one of the easiest places in New Zealand to slow down, breathe deep, and enjoy a genuinely relaxing day.

If you’re visiting Queenstown for the first time, the secret to relaxing is simple: stay close to the lake, keep your schedule light, and build your day around great views, good food, and gentle, scenic moments.

Below are three easy, low-stress Queenstown itineraries. Each one runs from breakfast to bedtime, with optional tweaks depending on your energy levels, weather, and season.

option 1: A relaxing day in queenstown: Lakeside Leisure (Easy, central, no rush)

Best if you are looking for a classic Queenstown day with minimal planning. Strolls, lake views, warm cafés, and an early night.

Breakfast (8:00–9:30am)

Start slow with a lake-view café. Begin your day in central Queenstown with breakfast near the waterfront. Choose a café with outdoor seating if the weather’s kind—Queenstown mornings are crisp, bright, and perfect for a long coffee.

Tip for first-timers: Dress in layers. Even sunny days can start cool near the lake.

Takeaway option: for something different (and if you can brave the queues), try a legendary Fergburger (or one of the treats from their bakery), then stroll over to the lakeside, relax on a bench, and enjoy.

Morning (10:00–11:30am)

Take a gentle walk in the Queenstown Gardens. Accessed from the town centre, the Queenstown Gardens offer flat, scenic walks, designed for slowing down—think huge trees, birdsong, and little photo spots looking over Lake Wakatipu.

Optional add-on: If you feel like something different, the gardens are a great place to try frisbee golf (low effort, lots of laughs).

Late morning (11:30am–12:30pm)

Browse local shops and galleries. Head back into town and browse boutique stores, local art, merino wool shops, or small gift stores. This is a great “wander hour” that feels relaxing because there’s no fixed end point. On weekends the Queenstown Markets feature a range of arts and crafts by local artisans, and we've picked up some lovely keepsakes over the years.

Lunch (12:30–2:00pm)

Relax with an unhurried lunch in town. Keep it simple: choose a spot with a view, order something fresh, and make lunch a real break (not a quick refuel). If you are still recovering from travel, this is the perfect time to linger and admire the views. Steamer Wharf has several great options. We love the casual dining at Pog Mahone's and the Pub on Wharf. 

Afternoon (2:00–4:30pm)

Lake cruise or just a lakeside lounge.

Option A (very relaxing): Take a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu for calm water, mountain views, and an easy way to “see Queenstown” without effort. The historic TSS Earnslaw is a great way to see Queenstown from a different perspective, and from out on the lake, you really get an appreciation of how vast the area is. A wonderful option is to combine the cruise with a delicious BBQ lunch at Walter Peak. These buffets are legendary.

Option B (even calmer): Grab a takeaway drink and sit by the water—Queenstown’s waterfront is made for doing very little.

Late afternoon (5:00–6:30pm)

Sunset at Bob’s Peak (Skyline gondola). For a gentle “wow” moment, ride the gondola up to Bob’s Peak. Even if you skip the luge, the viewpoint alone is worth it—especially as the light changes. Avoid the rush and head up a little earlier for a more relaxing vibe. You can roll your experience into a dinner date at the Stratosfare restaurant, but you will need to book ahead. The window seats are worth the extra cost. Access to the Skyline Gondola is from Brecon Street, and it's about 15 minutes walk from the town centre. It's up a bit of a hill, but there's a pay as you use parking station at the gondola base if you prefer to drive.

Dinner (7:00–8:30pm)

A cozy meal with local flavours. Choose a warm, welcoming restaurant in town. Queenstown evenings can feel magical—streetlights, lake air, and that holiday feeling kicking in properly. There's over 100 bars, pubs, reataurants and cafes to choose from, so there's something to cover all tastes and budgets. We love Flame Bar and Grill (steak and ribs), and for a special night, Botswanna Butchery is a standout. Bookings are essential for both.

Discount tip: If you don't mind eating early, First Table offer discounts of 50% off the bill for the food portion your meal. We've also got a special $5 bonus if you sign up. Check out availability and options here.

Bedtime wind-down (9:00–10:00pm)

Easy stroll + early night. Finish with a gentle walk along the waterfront, then head back to your accommodation for an early night. Queenstown has a way of making you sleep well. During the summer months (Dec-Feb) our daylight hours are long, stretching out to 9.30pm and later, perfect for your stroll.

A quick refreshment before bed: One of our favourite spots to relax with a local wine or beer is Perky's Floating Bar.

Accommodation tip: we always stay in central Queenstown. No need to get the car out, and everything on your doorstep. We talk about where to stay and our favourites here.

Option 2: A relaxing day in queenstown: Spa, Soak & Scenic Calm (Restorative and indulgent)

This is a great option for couples, honeymooners, or anyone who wants pure relaxation. Featuring hot pools, minimal walking, and “treat yourself” energy.

Breakfast (8:00–9:30am)

Start with a leisurely café breakfast—think eggs, fresh fruit, good bread, and a second coffee if you feel like it. The goal today is calm, not crammed.

Morning (10:00am–12:00pm)

Today takes you on a short (20 minute) scenic drive to Arrowtown (gentle exploring). It’s charming, historic, and much quieter than central Queenstown—perfect for first-timers who want a peaceful “small town” feel. Stroll the main street, browse local shops, take photos, and take your time. The Lakes District Museum and Gallery is a great spot to learn about the region's history, and if you are feeling energetic, you can even hire a pan and trowel and try your hand at gold panning in the Arrow River. Stop off in Ramshaw Lane for a delicious ice cream (we love the strawberries and cream), gelato, or some handmade chocolate treats at Patagonia Chocolates.

Tip: stop off on the way at Arthur's Point and watch the Shotover Jet as it thunders along the Shotover River.

Lunch (12:00–1:30pm)

Arrowtown is made for a long lunch—choose a cozy spot, enjoy the relaxed pace, and don’t worry about squeezing in too much.

Afternoon (2:00–4:30pm): Onsen Hot Pools (the ultimate Queenstown unwind)

Head back toward Queenstown for a soak at the Onsen Hot Pools (162 Arthurs Point Rd Arthurs Point). This is one of the most relaxing things you can do in the region, and the combination of warm water, private pools, and dramatic views (see the pic below) make this an experience to remember. Well worth it.

Planning tip: Book ahead, especially in peak seasons (summer, winter ski season). 

Late afternoon (5:00–6:30pm): Nap, read, or simply do nothing

Build in a “blank space” before dinner. This is what turns a nice day into a truly relaxing day—no schedule, no pressure.

Dinner (7:00–8:30pm): A special meal (without the bustle)

Choose a restaurant slightly away from the busiest strip if you prefer quieter dining. A warm, intimate setting pairs perfectly with your spa day. The Nest Bar and Kitchen at Kamana Lakehouse is a five minute drive from the town centre and has wonderful views and an excellent menu featuring local produce. 

In town, The Bunker is tucked away down Cow Lane and has an intimate feel with selective lighting and a crackling fire place in the cooler months.  Their "Taste of the South" menus features dishes showcasing some South Island gems from the paddock and the sea.

Don't forget to check for your dining discount here.

Bedtime wind-down (9:00–10:30pm): Herbal tea + tomorrow’s simple plan

Back at the hotel, keep it gentle: a cup of tea, a quick look at tomorrow’s weather, and lights out when you feel ready.

Option 3: A relaxing day in queenstown: Easy Nature Day (Scenic, gentle movement, big views)

Perfect for active-but-not-intense travellers who relax best outdoors, featuring fresh air, light walking, picnic-style moments, early sunset dinner.

Breakfast (7:30–9:00am)

Fuel up for a simple scenic day. Pick a café with hearty options (or grab takeaway) because today includes a little more movement—still easy, still relaxing. 

For a special treat, catch the water taxi from downtown, out to the marina at Frankton, for a hearty waterfront breakfast at the Boat Shed Cafe. Their "Boat Shed Benedict" is not to be missed.

Morning (9:30am–12:00pm): Choose one easy walk (don’t overdo it)

Pick a single “signature” easy walk to keep the day calm. Walks like the Sunshine Bay Track, the Queenstown Hill Time Walk and Bob's Cove Track are all easily accessible, and can all be done in under 3 hours. 

Here's our selection of the best short walks in Queenstown.

Tip: The most relaxing version of an outdoor day is doing one walk well—then stopping. Not stacking three walks back-to-back.

Lunch (12:30–2:00pm): Picnic-style lunch by the lake

Grab something from a bakery or café and eat outdoors by the water. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and feels like a holiday in the best way. If you feel like something more substantial, grab some fish and chips from Erik's and wash it down with a local wine or beer on Perky's Floating Bar, or just pick a spot on the beach.

Afternoon (2:00–4:30pm): Choose your “calm activity”

Pick one low-effort highlight:

• A gentle e-bike ride on a lakeside trail (if comfortable).
• A relaxed scenic boat ride. The Million Dollar Cruise has afternoon departures, runs for 90 minutes, and departs from the wharf in town. Perfect!
• A winery visit in nearby Gibbston Valley (tasting + scenery, very mellow).

Late afternoon (5:00–6:00pm): Golden hour photos + slow wander

Queenstown’s light in the late afternoon is stunning. Take the time to grab some more photos, and don't be hesitant to ask for someone to take some snaps of you. People here are very friendly and always happy to help. Maybe a pre-dinner cocktail at the ice bar?

Dinner (6:30–8:00pm): Something a little different?

After a nature-focused day, consider an earlier dinner.

Perhaps somewhere a little different to what you are used to? Blue Kanu (16 Church Street) is a bit of a Queenstown institution and their Pacifica/Asian blend has some really flavour packed dishes like the Kaimoana Boil Up (seafood) and the Fijian Chicken Curry.

Remember to check for your early diner discounts here.

Bedtime wind-down (8:30–10:00pm): Bath or shower + sleep like a local

Finish with a hot shower, comfy clothes, and an early night. 

Quick tips for a relaxing day in queenstown

• Do fewer things, more slowly. Queenstown is scenic everywhere—rushing isn’t necessary.
• Build in “empty time.” A 60–90 minute gap is often the most relaxing part of the day.
• Book key relaxation activities in advance. Hot pools and popular cruises can fill quickly.
• Dress for four seasons in a day. Layers = comfort = a calmer day.

If you need some help to plan a relaxing day in Queenstown (or a longer stay), just ask us. We are here to help.

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