The perfect Romantic Queenstown Escape - 7 Days / 6 Nights in paradise

Your romantic Queenstown escape itinerary is packed with Queenstown’s most searched romantic experiences

If you’re flying into Queenstown and you want a romantic Queenstown escape that feels effortless (but still hits all the bucket-list moments), this is the plan I’d hand to friends.

It blends the “iconic Queenstown” stuff people Google for—lake cruises, Skyline views, Milford Sound, Pinot Noir in Gibbston Valley—with slower, more intimate moments like hot pools, Arrowtown wandering, and sunset dinners.

And if you are flying in, your adventure begins with one of the most scenic landings in the world. Surrounded by the towering Remarkables mountain range, Lake Wakatipu unfolds below you, and every time we land here, the flight in is a highlight, and is the perfect introduction to Queenstown.

Where to stay (6 nights): romantic mid-range and 5-star options

No romantic Queenstown escape would be complete without somewhere special to stay. So here are our personal recommendations, featuring some outstanding Queenstown hotels and lodges.

Our selections are much more than just somewhere to sleep. They all have that important combination of wonderful facilities, prime location, impeccable service, and luxury.

Mid-range (romantic, great value, consistently well-reviewed)

1) Kamana Lakehouse (139 Fernhill Road, Fernhill, Queenstown)

• Where: Fernhill, 7–10 minutes by car from central Queenstown.
• Why it’s highly rated: huge Lake Wakatipu and mountain views, stylish rooms, and a peaceful setting that feels tucked away from the busy town centre. Onsite "Nest" restaurant and "Kamana Soak" hot tubs.
• Seasonal factors: incredible year-round; winter is especially cozy with that “mountain lodge” vibe.
• Why it’s top of the list: views are one of the most romantic “extras,” and here they’re basically built in. 

Book your Romantic Queenstown escape at Kamana Lakehouse here.

2) The Dairy Private Hotel (21 Brecon Street, Central Queenstown)

• Where: right in town, easy to walk to the lakefront and restaurants.
• Why it’s highly rated: boutique feel, warm service, intimate atmosphere—perfect for couples who want charm without going full luxury resort.
• Seasonal factors: great in winter because you’re close to dining (no driving/parking in the cold).
• Why it’s top of the list: convenience + romance, with a “small hotel” personality.

Book now: to read reviews and to book your stay click here.

5-star (special-occasion romantic; the “we’ll never forget this” stays)

1) Eichardt’s Private Hotel (2 Marine Parade, Queenstown. On Queenstown waterfront)

• Where:  On the lakefront in the heart of Queenstown.
• Why it’s highly rated: iconic heritage luxury, impeccable service, and a location that makes your whole trip feel elevated.
• Seasonal factors: perfect year-round; winter + lake views + luxe interiors is a strong combo.
• Why it’s top of the list: it’s one of the most celebrated luxury stays in Queenstown—very “romantic escape” coded.

Book now: you can book your unforgettable romantic Queenstown escape at Eichardt's here.

2) Rosewood Matakauri (569 Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, Closeburn, Queenstown)

• Where:  About 7 minutes from Queenstown, lakeside with Remarkables views.
• Why it’s highly rated: ultra-luxury, serene, impeccable food and service, and a “retreat” atmosphere.
• Seasonal factors: winter is magical; summer sunsets are stunning.
• Why it’s top of the list: if you want the most romantic, peaceful version of Queenstown, this is it.

Book your stay now: click here to book.

booking tip for your romantic queenstown escape

If your budget allows, split your stay. Consider 3 nights central (walkable romance) and 3 nights in a lakeside retreat (quiet luxury).

Day 1: Welcome to Queenstown. Prepare to be "wowed"

Your romantic Queenstown escape begins today as you land at one of the most scenic spots on earth.

Enjoy!

Arrive at Queenstown Airport (ZQN.

• Transfer to your chosen accommodation: taxi/rideshare, hotel shuttle, or rental car (useful for day trips like Arrowtown/Glenorchy).
• Check-in + reset - don’t over-schedule today. The best first day is always a gentle one.

Romantic afternoon activity take a stroll in the beautiful Queenstown Gardens or along the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

• Where: central Queenstown, a short walk from the waterfront.
• Why it’s highly rated: easy, beautiful, and instantly delivers Queenstown’s signature scenery—lake, mountains, willow trees, and quiet little corners.
• Seasonal factors: Summer: long golden evenings for slow walks. Winter: bring layers; it’s crisp but gorgeous.
• Why it's top of the list: it's free, scenic, and it sets the tone for your romantic week in Queenstown.

Optional “first-night wow”take the Skyline Queenstown Gondola to Bob’s Peak, 450 metres above town.

• Where: Brecon Street - walking distance from town centre. Uphill for around 10 minutes, but there is a pay for use car park at the gondola base. 
• Why it’s highly rated: unbeatable panoramic views; couples love it for sunset photos. Be sure to book a window table for a sunset dinner looking over Queenstown.
• Seasonal factors: winter sunsets happen early—go mid/late afternoon. Summer sunsets are late—book around golden hour.
• Why it’s top of the list: it’s one of the most searched and iconic Queenstown experiences.

Dinner (romantic, reliably excellent)  Botswana Butchery (17 Marine Parade, Queenstown - central, near the waterfront).

• Where: close to Queenstown Bay.
• Why it’s highly rated: consistently praised for service, atmosphere, and a “special night out” feeling. A great selection of locally sourced produce and an extensive wine list.
• Why it’s top of the list: it’s a classic romantic restaurant for couples in Queenstown— but book ahead.

After-dinner head onto Perky's Floating Bar for an evening drink,  followed by a leisurely waterfront stroll, and take in the lights reflecting on the lake. A perfect ending to a long day.

• Where: at the pier, town centre.
• Why it's highly rated: wonderful views, a unique concept (you can take your own food on board).

Day 2: Onsen Hot Pools + cozy Arrowtown date day

Time to explore this amazing region. Swap morning and afternoon activities around if it better fits your schedule.

Morning Onsen Hot Pools (private hot pool session) Arthur's Point, around 10-15 minutes drive from central Queenstown.

• Why it’s highly rated: private cedar hot pools overlooking the Shotover River canyon—this is one of the top “romantic things to do in Queenstown” for a reason. There's also some other great hot tub options in town.
• Seasonal factors: Winter: peak romance (steam + cold air). Year-round: still amazing; book well in advance.
• Why it’s top of the list: it’s intimate, scenic, and feels tailor-made for couples.

Afternoon Arrowtown (heritage village + easy walks).

• Where: about 20 minutes drive from Queenstown.  
• Why it’s highly rated: charming historic streets, boutiques, and a relaxed pace that feels like a mini escape inside your escape. Be sure to try a delicious New Zealand ice cream from "The Shed" in Buckingham Street (Hokey Pokey is our favourite).
• Seasonal factors: autumn is spectacular (gold leaves everywhere). Spring and summer are perfect for walks along the river.
• Why it’s top of the list: it’s one of the easiest, most romantic half-day trips from Queenstown.

Dinner (Arrowtown special): Aosta

• Where: 18 Buckingham Street Arrowtown.
• Why it’s highly rated: intimate Italian-inspired dining, warm ambiance, and “date night” energy. Try the "Royal Burn Lamb" for a taste of one of our best local treats. 
• Why it’s top of the list: it’s one of the most-loved romantic restaurants near Queenstown.

Day 3: Milford Sound day trip (the bucket-list romance day)

Full day: Milford Sound cruise + scenic journey

This is perhaps New Zealand's number one attraction, and is a "must do" if you are here. It's a BIG day, and involves a four hour coach trip each way, plus your 2-3 hour cruise. But it is worth every minute. Please have a look at our dedicated page where there's lots more information on what to expect.

• Where: Fiordland National Park (day trip from Queenstown).
• Why it’s highly rated: Milford Sound is iconic New Zealand—towering cliffs, waterfalls, and dramatic views that feel unreal in person. The drive there, particularly once you leave Te Anau, is regarded as one of the most spectacular in the world. Try for a tour that has a glass top coach to maximise your views (when you get to the Homer Tunnel you will be looking up quite a bit).
• Seasonal factors: Rainy days often create more waterfalls (it can be even better). Winter has fewer crowds and dramatic alpine scenery, but daylight is shorter.
• Why it’s top of the list: it’s one of the most searched day trips from Queenstown and a true “once in a lifetime” shared memory.
• How to do it (couples tip): Coach + cruise is the easiest and most relaxing (no long driving day for one of you). Flights provide a much more direct option, but are very much dependent on the weather, and cancellations can happen.
• What to wear: Bring layers and a thermos/hot drink in winter.

Late Dinner back in Queenstown (keep it easy but good) Blue Kanu 16 Church Street, Queenstown (central)

• Why it’s highly rated: lively, flavorful “Pacific Rim” style menu, great for sharing plates—fun and romantic without feeling too formal.
• Why it’s top of the list: popular, central, and reliably satisfying after a big day.
• Tip: your tour will not return to Queenstown till 7.30-8pm so please pre-book your dinner.
• See available tours: you can search for and book your tour below.

Day 4: Gibbston Valley wine romance + food worth dressing up for

Late morning: Gibbston Valley wine tour (Pinot Noir country)

• Where: Gibbston Valley, around 25 minutes drive from Queenstown.
• Why it’s highly rated: Central Otago Pinot Noir is internationally famous, and the cellar doors are beautiful and relaxed.
• Seasonal factors: Summer: vineyard views, warm afternoons, long tastings, autumn: harvest vibes and golden vines—very romantic.
• Why it’s top of the list: wine tasting in Gibbston Valley is one of Queenstown’s most classic couples activities.
• Smart choice: book a wine tour like this one. That way you can both enjoy tastings safely—no stress, no driving.

Long lunch / early dinner: Amisfield Restaurant

• Where: Amisfield, 10 Lake Hayes Road, Queenstown.
• Why it’s highly rated: frequently recommended for its food quality and setting; a high end “destination meal” that feels celebratory. Certainly not cheap, but well worth it.
• Seasonal factors: bookings are essential so book ahead year-round; peak summer and winter weeks fill fast.
• Why it’s top of the list: this is the kind of meal couples talk about long after they’ve flown home. Multiple awards including "World's 50 Best Restaurants 2025". 

Evening: back to Queenstown for a quiet night

After a wine day, the most romantic thing can be doing… less.

Day 5: Glenorchy scenic drive + sunset lake cruise

Morning: Glenorchy scenic drive (one of NZ’s prettiest roads)

• Where: 45-60 minutes drive from Queenstown along the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
• Why it’s highly rated: constant lake and mountain views; it’s famously photogenic and feels more “wild” than town. Prepare for lots of photo stops. The Dart River Adventures wilderness tour is memorable. For lunch stop off at Mrs. Woolley's.
• Seasonal factors: winter: watch for icy roads; go slow or book a tour. Summer: stop at viewpoints and linger—light lasts ages.
• Why it’s top of the list: it’s a top Queenstown couples day trip because it’s easy and jaw-dropping.
• Easy romantic walk: Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway. Flat, scenic, reflective water, big skies—excellent for relaxed couples selfies.

Evening: TSS Earnslaw cruise + Walter Peak dinner (classic Queenstown romance)

• Where: departs Steamer Wharf, central Queenstown.
• Why it’s highly rated: vintage steamship vibes + lake crossing + historic station dinner. It’s nostalgic in the best way.
• Seasonal factors: evenings on the lake can be cold any time of year—bring a warm layer.
• Why it’s top of the list: it’s one of the most iconic “Queenstown romantic activities” and very easy to book.The cruise offers Queenstown views from a different perspective, and the meals at Walter Peak are legendary. You can also choose a "cruise only" option.

Day 6: Choose-your-adventure romance (big views or deep relaxation)

Option A: Scenic helicopter flight + alpine landing

• Where: flights depart from Queenstown Airport (operators vary). Check out this highly rated experience.
• Why it’s highly rated: the “Queenstown from above” perspective is next-level, and an alpine landing feels incredibly special as a couple.  The sense of isolation is spellbinding.
• Seasonal factors: weather dependent—keep flexibility in your schedule.
• Why it’s top of the list: it’s a high-impact romantic splurge and a signature Queenstown experience.

Option B: Slow day in town (cafés, spa, shopping, lake time) 

• Sleep in, then take your time to explore the local shops or the weekend markets, or perhaps try a game of frisbee golf in the Queenstown Gardens.
• Book a couples massage or soak in a hot tub.
• How about a long late lunch or dinner at one of our great pubs.

Add-on romantic activity: Queenstown Hill (Time Walk) OR Bob’s Cove

• Why they’re highly rated: accessible hikes with huge views.
• Seasonal factors: winter trails can be icy/muddy—proper footwear helps.
• Why top of the list: views + quiet moments + “we did something together” feeling. There's more info here.

Final-night dinner (make it your “toast to us” night)

• Where: Rātā (Te Nuku, 43 Ballarat Street, central Queenstown)
• Why it’s highly rated: refined modern New Zealand dining, consistently recommended for special occasions.
• Why top of the list: it’s the kind of place that turns your last night into a highlight.
• After dinner: dessert then a lakeside stroll. Perhaps a nightcap at Pog Mahone's?

Queenstown is built for romantic slow endings.

Day 7: Depart by air + farewell breakfast

Morning: one last lake moment

• Grab coffee and breakfast in central Queenstown, then take a short waterfront stroll.
• Transfer to Queenstown Airport (ZQN). Give yourselves extra time in peak season (winter ski weeks and summer holidays).

seasonal swaps for your romantic Queenstown escape (so this itinerary works year-round)

If you’re visiting in winter (June–August)

• Prioritize: Onsen Hot Pools, cozy restaurants (Botswana Butchery, The Bunker), Skyline views in late afternoon, and consider a ski day at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables if that’s your vibe.
• Pack: warm layers for lake cruises and Milford.

If you’re visiting in summer (December–February)

• Prioritize: late sunsets (Skyline at golden hour), lake cruises, winery afternoons, and more time outdoors (Queenstown Hill, Bob’s Cove).
• Book: restaurants and cruises earlier—summer is busy.

Autumn (March–May) is a romantic sweet spot

• Arrowtown and the vineyards glow—perfect for couples photos and calmer travel.

Why these activities should be at the top of your Queenstown romantic escape list

These are our top romantic picks for your romantic Queenstown escape:

• Onsen Hot Pools: private, scenic, intimate—consistently one of the most recommended romantic experiences in Queenstown.
• Milford Sound: a world-famous day trip that delivers maximum “wow” and shared memories.
• Gibbston Valley wine: Central Otago Pinot Noir + beautiful vineyard settings = effortless romance.
• Glenorchy: cinematic scenery and quiet moments that feel like you escaped the world.
• Skyline Gondola + lake cruises: classic Queenstown icons that consistently rank highly because they truly deliver.