Exploring the extensive list of things to do in Queenstown, from adrenaline-pumping bungee jumps to serene lake cruises, can leave you wanting more of what New Zealand has to offer. Fortunately, day trips from Queenstown open up a world of adventure, connecting you to the wider natural wonders and cultural highlights beyond the city’s limits.
As you venture from Queenstown, the array of things to do in New Zealand expands, revealing everything from the dramatic fiords of Milford Sound to the tranquil beauty of Lake Wanaka. These excursions not only showcase the breathtaking landscapes of the South Island but also immerse you in the rich heritage and adventurous spirit of New Zealand.
Choosing where to stay in Queenstown is key to experiencing the best of both worlds: the thrill of adventure and the peace of nature’s beauty. The right accommodation ensures easy access to Queenstown’s myriad activities while providing a cozy retreat to recharge for the next day’s adventures, making every moment in New Zealand memorable.
Discover Best Day Trips from Queenstown, New Zealand
1. Milford Sound, New Zealand
Milford Sound, renowned for its stunning fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife, is a World Heritage site offering some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery. Cruise the sound to see the iconic Mitre Peak and possibly some dolphins or seals.
Distance: Approximately 287 km
Travel Time: The journey to Milford Sound from Queenstown typically takes around 4 hours by road
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Stunning fjords, waterfalls, Mitre Peak, wildlife spotting (dolphins, seals)
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Milford Sound Cruise: $50-$100
Budget: Approximately $80-$150 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, Stirling Falls
Travel Tip: Consider taking a scenic flight back to Queenstown for an unforgettable aerial view of the Fiordland National Park.
2. Glenorchy, New Zealand
Glenorchy, located at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, is a gateway to incredible hiking trails and Lord of the Rings filming locations. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like horse riding, kayaking, and jet boating.
Distance: Approximately 46 km
Travel Time: Glenorchy is about a 45-minute scenic drive from Queenstown
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lake Wakatipu, hiking trails, Lord of the Rings filming locations
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Free (activities like horse riding or jet boating have separate fees)
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation and optional activities)
Scenic Spots: Glenorchy Wharf, Paradise, Rees Valley
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Glenorchy Walkway, a leisurely stroll offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
3. Arrowtown, New Zealand
Arrowtown, a historic gold mining town, is known for its well-preserved buildings and autumnal beauty. Visit the Lakes District Museum, stroll through the quaint streets, and explore the Arrow River Trail.
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Travel Time: Arrowtown is just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Historic gold mining town, Lakes District Museum, Arrow River Trail
Best Time to Visit: Autumn (for stunning foliage) or year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Lakes District Museum: $10
- Arrow River Trail: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation and entrance fees)
Scenic Spots: Arrow River, Chinese Settlement, Buckingham Street
Travel Tip: Try your hand at gold panning in the Arrow River, where gold was first discovered in the 1860s.
4. Wanaka, New Zealand
Wanaka offers a mix of adventure and tranquility with its stunning lake, hiking trails, and the famous “That Wanaka Tree.” Activities include skydiving, mountain biking, and wine tasting at local vineyards.
Distance: Approximately 67 km
Travel Time: The drive to Wanaka from Queenstown takes about an hour
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lake Wanaka, Roys Peak, Puzzling World
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Puzzling World: $20
- Roys Peak Track: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation and entrance fees)
Scenic Spots: That Wanaka Tree, Lake Wanaka, Mt. Aspiring National Park
Travel Tip: Visit the Puzzling World in Wanaka, a unique attraction featuring illusion rooms and a large maze.
5. Doubtful Sound, New Zealand
Doubtful Sound, less crowded than Milford Sound, is a deeply serene and majestic fjord. It’s known for its wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and rare birds, and offers a more secluded experience of the Fiordland.
Distance: Approximately 178 km (to Manapouri)
Travel Time: Getting to Doubtful Sound usually involves a bus trip to Manapouri (about 2.5 hours), followed by a boat ride across Lake Manapouri and another bus over Wilmot Pass
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Serene fjords, wildlife (dolphins, seals, birds), untouched natural beauty
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Doubtful Sound Cruise: $150-$250
Budget: Approximately $200-$300 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Deep Cove, Wilmot Pass, Lake Manapouri
Travel Tip: Consider an overnight cruise to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery and tranquility of Doubtful Sound.
6. Te Anau, New Zealand
Te Anau is the gateway to the Fiordland National Park and a base for exploring the famous Milford and Routeburn Tracks. The town itself is picturesque, with opportunities for kayaking, cruising on the lake, and visiting the Te Anau Glowworm Caves.
Distance: Approximately 170 km
Travel Time: It’s about a 2-hour drive from Queenstown to Te Anau
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lake Te Anau, Te Anau Glowworm Caves, Gateway to Fiordland National Park
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Glowworm Caves Tour: $60
Budget: Approximately $70-$120 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lake Te Anau, Fiordland National Park, Murchison Mountains
Travel Tip: Don’t miss a boat trip to the Glowworm Caves for an enchanting and unique experience.
7. Cromwell, New Zealand
Cromwell, situated in the heart of Central Otago, is famous for its stone fruit orchards and as a hub for wine enthusiasts. Explore historic Old Cromwell Town and enjoy the local wineries offering Pinot Noir and other varietals.
Distance: Approximately 60 km
Travel Time: Cromwell is about a 45-minute drive from Queenstown
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Stone fruit orchards, Old Cromwell Town, Central Otago wineries
Best Time to Visit: Summer (for fresh fruit) or year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Old Cromwell Town: Free
- Winery Tours: $20-$50
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation and entrance fees)
Scenic Spots: Lake Dunstan, Bannockburn Sluicings, Kawarau Gorge
Travel Tip: Visit during the summer months to enjoy the local fruit stands offering fresh cherries, apricots, and peaches.
8. The Remarkables, New Zealand
The Remarkables mountain range offers skiing and snowboarding in winter, and hiking trails in summer. The views from the top are spectacular, encompassing vast stretches of the South Island’s dramatic landscape.
Distance: Approximately 24 km
Travel Time: The Remarkables are about a 40-minute drive from Queenstown
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking trails in summer
Best Time to Visit: Winter for snow sports, summer for hiking
Entrance Fees:
- Ski Pass: $100-$150
- Hiking: Free
Budget: Approximately $50-$200 (depending on activities and transportation)
Scenic Spots: Lake Alta, Remarkables Lookout, Shadow Basin
Travel Tip: In summer, hike to Lake Alta, a small glacial lake nestled in the mountains, for a peaceful and scenic experience.
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Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/queenstown-l498?activity_type=dayTrip
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