Queenstown New Zealand 5 Day Itinerary

Queenstown, New Zealand 5-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Queenstown

  • Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Peppers Beacon, a luxurious hotel with stunning lake and mountain views.
  • Things to Know: Queenstown is famous for its adventure activities, scenic beauty, and vibrant nightlife. The town operates on New Zealand Standard Time (NZST).
  • Activities: Take a leisurely stroll along the Queenstown Waterfront or Lake Esplanade. Visit the Queenstown Memorial Centre and Art Gallery.
  • Where to Eat: Have dinner at Fergburger, a local institution known for its delicious burgers.

Day 2: Adventure Day

  • Activities: Experience the thrill of bungee jumping at the Kawarau Bridge, the original bungy site. Take a scenic gondola ride up Bob’s Peak for breathtaking views and lunch at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar. Don’t miss the luge rides!
  • Where to Eat: Dine at Rata, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern New Zealand cuisine with stunning lake views.

Day 3: Milford Sound Tour

  • Transportation: Book a full-day tour to Milford Sound (recommend Real Journeys). The journey includes coach travel, boat cruise, and lunch.
  • Things to Know: Milford Sound is a must-visit for its fjord landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. Remember to bring warm clothing and rain gear.

Day 4: Wine Tasting & Relaxation

  • Activities: Visit Gibbston Valley Winery for wine tasting, cellar door sales, and a delicious lunch at their restaurant. Explore the Gibbston Valley Bike Park if you’re into mountain biking.
  • Where to Eat: Dine at Amisfield, located in the picturesque Gibbston Valley, for a memorable dining experience among vineyards.

Day 5: Day Trip to Glenorchy & Paradise

  • Transportation: Rent a car or join a day tour to explore Glenorchy and Paradise, both filming locations of Lord of the Rings. Dart River Adventures offers scenic tours with various activities like jet boating and hiking.
  • Things to Know: The drive to Glenorchy is spectacular, so make sure to take your time and stop at beautiful spots along the way. Don’t forget your camera!
  • Where to Eat: Enjoy lunch at the quaint Paradise Food & Provisions before heading back to Queenstown.