Best Things to Do in Queenstown

Queenstown is more than just adrenaline-pumping adventures. It’s also a place where you can slow down, take in the scenery, and enjoy experiences that are just as unforgettable without pushing your limits. Whether it’s a lake cruise, a gondola ride or a vineyard visit, these softer adventures let you soak up the magic of Tāhuna – Queenstown at your own pace. These are our top five picks if you want to keep things relaxed while still experiencing what makes this alpine town so special.

Toni and I love visiting Tāhuna – Queenstown and the surrounding areas, because no matter how many times we return, there’s always something new to discover — a hidden walking track, a little pop-up coffee shop, or simply soaking up the buzz of the town centre.

1. Cruise on Lake Wakatipu

One of the Best Things to Do in Queenstown is taking to the water. A cruise on Lake Wakatipu lets you soak in alpine beauty at a slower pace. Whether you choose the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship or a modern catamaran, the views of the Remarkables and the clear mountain air make this a peaceful highlight of your visit.

• Why go: Scenic cruise with Remarkables views.
• What you’ll see: Walter Peak Station, vast alpine horizons.
• Good to know: Pair the cruise with a farm visit or enjoy a relaxed drink on deck.

2. Ride the Skyline Gondola

Floating above the township to Bob’s Peak is one of the Best Things to Do in Queenstown for visitors who want a wow factor without breaking a sweat. The gondola glides smoothly up the hillside, opening up jaw-dropping views over the lake, the Remarkables, and beyond.

• Why go: Quick and easy way to panoramic views.
• What you’ll see: Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown township, alpine peaks.
• Good to know: Coffee stops, restaurants and short alpine trails await at the top.

3. Explore Arrowtown

If you’re craving a touch of history and charm, Arrowtown delivers. This old gold-mining settlement is just a short drive away and feels like stepping into another time. Boutique shops, riverside walks and autumn colours make it one of the Best Things to Do in Queenstown for a cultural outing.

• Why go: Historic village with rich gold-mining heritage.
• What you’ll see: Arrow River, colourful tree-lined streets.
• Good to know: Autumn is especially stunning but cosy cafés shine all year.

4. Taste Central Otago Wines

The Central Otago wine region is world-famous for Pinot Noir and a tasting tour is one of the Best Things to Do in Queenstown for food and wine lovers. Just a short drive from town, you can relax among rolling vines while sipping award-winning wines with a mountain backdrop.

• Why go: Home of New Zealand’s celebrated Pinot Noir.
• What you’ll see: Vineyards framed by rugged peaks.
• Good to know: Gibbston Valley wineries are closest to Queenstown.

5. Dine at the Cardrona Hotel

Taking a trip over the Crown Range to the Cardrona Hotel is both a scenic drive and a destination in itself. This historic pub is one of the oldest hotels in Aotearoa, known for hearty meals, roaring fires in winter and a garden bar in summer. Adding it to your trip is easily one of the Best Things to Do in Queenstown for travellers who want an alpine experience with flavour.

• Why go: Historic alpine pub full of Kiwi character.
• What you’ll see: Rustic façade, alpine views, relaxed dining atmosphere.

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.

• ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
• 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
• 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
• 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
• 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
• 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
• 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
• 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
• 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
• 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
• 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.

🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.