Top tips for enjoying queenstown:A guide for first time visitors

If you’re heading to Queenstown, you’re in for one of those trips that makes you wonder why you don’t travel more often. It’s beautiful in a “how is this even real?” way, packed with things to do, and somehow manages to feel both adventurous and relaxing at the same time.

But here’s the thing: Queenstown can also be a place where people accidentally overbook themselves, spend too much time commuting, and leave feeling like they need a holiday from their holiday.

So, here's our top tips for enjoying Queenstown — including the must-do things that give you the best chance of having a truly great Queenstown holiday.

Top Tips for Enjoying Queenstown: Must-Do Ideas for a Holiday You’ll Never Forget

1) Don’t Rush Queenstown: Give Yourself Enough Time

This is the single biggest tip we can give you.

Queenstown looks small on a map, but there’s a lot packed into the region: lake walks, mountain viewpoints, wineries, day trips, ski fields (in winter), and all the famous adventure activities. If you only have 1–2 days, you’ll spend half your time deciding what to skip.

How much time do you need in Queenstown?

• 3 days: A great “taster” with a few must-do highlights. Check our "Weekend in Queenstown" page for some ideas.
• 4–5 days: The sweet spot for most visitors (include a day trip Milford Sound if possible).
• 7+ days: Ideal if you want day trips (Milford Sound, Wanaka, Glenorchy, Aoraki Mount Cook) and plenty of downtime. 

Quick tip: be sure to build in some “white space” — those unplanned hours where you can wander the lakefront, grab a coffee, or take a detour because the view is too good to ignore. That’s where Queenstown really shines.

2) Stay Centrally (You’ll Thank Yourself Later)

If you want an easy, low-stress holiday, stay somewhere central in Queenstown.

Why staying central matters:

• You can walk to restaurants, cafes, shops, and the lakefront.
• Many Queenstown tours pick up from central locations, which makes mornings smoother.
• You avoid driving and parking hassles (Queenstown parking can be a pain, especially in peak season).
• You can enjoy a drink with dinner and stroll home.
• You can avoid those nasty uphill walks home.

If you’re choosing between “a cheaper place far out” and “a slightly more expensive place near town,” the central option often wins once you factor in time, transport, parking, and convenience.

Quick tips: if you’re travelling in summer holidays or winter ski season, central accommodation books out early (often 6-12 months in advance), so lock it in as soon as you can. You can learn more about the different accommodation regions (and our top picks) in Queenstown here.

3) Pick Accommodation With a View (It Changes the Whole Trip)

This sounds like a luxury tip, but in Queenstown it’s honestly part of the experience.

Queenstown is all about the scenery: Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables, snowy peaks in winter, golden light in autumn. If you can book accommodation with a view—lake view, mountain view, or both—you’ll get those “wow” moments without even leaving your room. And if you can, opt for a room or apartment that has its own balcony. Breakfasts or evening drinks in the comfort of your own balcony or deck is a very much underrated experience.

Why a view is worth it:

• Mornings feel special (coffee + mountains = instant calm).
• Evenings are magic (sunset over the lake is next-level).
• On rest days, you still feel like you’re “doing Queenstown.”

What to look for when booking:

• Photos that clearly show the view from the balcony/window (not “nearby views”).
• A balcony or outdoor seating if possible.
• Reviews that mention the scenery (guests will tell the truth).

If your budget is tight: consider staying slightly smaller/older but prioritising the view. In Queenstown, the view is the upgrade.

4) Do the Must-Do Queenstown Lakefront Walk (More Than Once)

This is one of the easiest and best things to do in Queenstown, and it’s free.

Start in town, wander along the lakefront, and just let the place work its magic. You’ll see why people fall in love with Queenstown so quickly. Head over to the Queenstown Gardens for some beautiful trails and sensational views. Or just take the time to explore Lake Wakatipu.

Best times to go:

• Early morning for quiet, calm water and crisp air.
• Sunset for those famous Queenstown colours.

If you like gentle activity, consider a guided segway tour. What a relaxing way to experience our lakefront.

5) Get Up High: Skyline Gondola + Views (And Maybe the Luge)

If you want a “Queenstown postcard moment,” head up the Skyline Gondola.

The gondola ride is memorable, with  ever expanding views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. Before you know it, you reach Bob's Peak and alight from your gondola car.

From the observation decks you’ll get sweeping views over:

• Queenstown town centre.
• Lake Wakatipu.
• The Remarkables mountain range.

And yes, the Luge is as fun as people say. It’s one of those activities that makes everyone laugh, even the people who claim they’re “not really into that kind of thing.”

Timing tip: Go up mid-to-late afternoon and stay through golden hour if you can. We can highly recommend a sunset dinner at Stratosfare. But be sure to book ahead, and to choose a window table to maximise those views.

6) Pick One “Big Adventure” (Even If You’re Not an Adrenaline Person)

Queenstown is famous for adventure activities, and you don’t have to do all of them. But choosing one iconic experience is a great way to make your trip feel memorable.

Popular Queenstown adventure options:

• Jet boating (high energy, lots of fun, very Queenstown). The Shotover and Kawarau jetboats are probably the best known, and for a wilderness adventure, the Dart River adventure is a classic.
• Bungee jumping (Kawarau Bridge is the original, and we loved it).
• Skydiving (spectacular views on a clear day).
• White-water rafting (a great group activity).

Not sure what to choose? If you want the biggest thrill with the least “commitment fear,” jet boating is a fantastic start.

7) Do a Day Trip That Shows Off the Region

Queenstown is incredible, but the surrounding region is part of what makes it world-class. A good day trip adds variety and gives you those “I can’t believe we saw that” moments.

Top day trips from Queenstown:

• Milford Sound: Famous for a reason—waterfalls, cliffs, dramatic scenery. It’s a long day, but unforgettable. This coach tour from Queenstown is a great choice, but if your time is limited, consider a fly/cruise combo like this one.
• Glenorchy: One of the most scenic drives you’ll ever do, with great walks and a quieter vibe.
• Arrowtown: Historic and charming, perfect for an easy afternoon (especially in autumn).
• Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. A World Heritage listed region with our tallest peak and stunning turquoise lakes.

Tip for Milford Sound: Don’t panic if the forecast shows rain. Rain often creates more waterfalls, which can actually make Milford even more impressive.

8) Eat Well (Because Queenstown Is Also a Foodie Town)

No list of top tips for enjoying Queenstown would be complete without mentioning our food scene.

Between the adventure and scenery, it’s easy to forget: Queenstown has seriously good food. With more than 100 bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants (plus dozens of wineries), there's something here to suit all tastes and budgets.

Must-do food experiences in Queenstown:

• Try a legendary Fergburger (go at off-peak times if you hate queues). And then take your burger onto Perky's Floating Bar. Oh those views!
• Book at least one “nice meal” with a lake or mountain view.
• Enjoy slow brunches—Queenstown does café culture well.

Consider dining early to avoid the rush. First Table offers a 50% discount to your food bill at selected restaurants.

If you’re travelling in peak season, make dinner reservations. The popular places fill up quickly, and nobody wants to spend their holiday wandering around hungry.

Money saving tip: Head over to First Table for a 50% discount on your meal, plus a bonus $5 credit.

9) Build Your Days Around Balance (Not Just Activities)

A common holiday killer is treating your time here like it’s a checklist. "Tick that one off, now for the next one".

A better plan:

• Choose one main activity per day (gondola, adventure, day trip, hike).
• Allow one flexible, slower block (lake walk, markets, spa, café time, views).
• Build some flexibility into your plan to allow for bad weather.

Queenstown is a place where “doing less” often feels like you experienced more—because you actually had time to notice the details.

10) Our Top Tips For Enjoying Queenstown Checklist (If You Want the Highlights)

If you want a quick set of Queenstown must do things to build your itinerary around, here’s a solid list:

• Stay centrally in Queenstown so you can walk everywhere.
• Choose accommodation with a lake or mountain view if possible.
• Give yourself at least 3–5 days so you don’t rush.
• Walk the Queenstown lakefront (and the Queenstown Gardens).
• Ride the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views (add the Luge and a meal if you want).
• Do one iconic Queenstown adventure activity (jet boat, bungy, skydive).
• Take one day trip (Milford Sound, Glenorchy, Aoraki Mt Cook or Arrowtown).
• Plan at least one slow day with great food and no tight schedule.

The Real Secret to Enjoying Queenstown

Queenstown delivers the big-ticket experiences—stunning scenic views, adventure, food, day trips. But the best holidays here have one thing in common: they’re not rushed.

Stay central, choose a place with a view, and give yourself enough time to breathe. The magic of Queenstown isn’t just what you do—it’s how it feels when you finally slow down and let the scenery sink in. Sit on your balcony or at a lakeside cafe or restaurant, or go for a stroll. And just take it all in.

As we say, "Adventure awaits, serenity beckons".

We Are Here to Help

We hope you've enjoyed reading our "top tips for enjoying Queenstown".

If you tell us how many days you have, who you’re travelling with (couple, family, friends, solo), and what season you’re visiting, we can help you map out a simple Queenstown itinerary that fits your style—without turning your holiday into a sprint. We would love to hear from you. 

Contact us.

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