I wasn’t certain how much I would appreciate Queenstown. I’m candidly not too big a fan of heights, and haven’t fully convinced myself to try the things Queenstown is truly renowned for – like bungy jumping or skydiving. But after spending 3 days in Queenstown, I realized there is plenty to do both for adrenaline seekers and people like myself. From a superb food scene (still dream of both Fergburger and Taco Medic), to a surprisingly good wine region just outside of town, to some of the finest hiking in New Zealand, Queenstown is absolutely worth your time.
This 3 day Queenstown schedule will assist you in finding the best way to spend your time, whether you’re looking to skydive every day, or just relax on the lakefront with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc in your hand.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I earn a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, I would never recommend something to you that I don’t stand fully behind.
Table of Contents
Logistics for Your 3 Day Queenstown Itinerary
Initially, some swift logistical details for your time in Queenstown.
Where to Stay in Queenstown
There are plenty of lodging options in Queenstown in regards to where to spend the night. Generally, the closer in proximity to downtown, the more expensive it will be. We stayed along the lake east of Queenstown and it was ideal: peace and quiet, privacy, parking, and a convenient bus runs along highway 6, which means you`re not more than a 15 minute trip away from being in the heart of all the activity.
I almost always prefer Airbnb over hotels. The exceptions are when you’re in a place for only a day, when the Airbnb cleaning fee is going to make it more expensive, and when you need to check in early or something like that, where hotels are going to be the way to go.
The Best Airbnb Alternatives in Queenstown
Ultimately, we became deeply fond of this Airbnb with a lakeside patio and a full kitchen and decided to invest a little bit more than we usually would. It was great to enjoy my morning coffee or my afternoon cider on the patio, and it’s an easy 10 minute ride into town on the bus, or 15-20 minute walk.
Now that I’m re-analyzing Queenstown`s Airbnb possibilities, a few others have caught my attention. They`re all potential options for the next time we find ourselves in New Zealand, which I sincerely hope will be soon.
For couples:This Kiwi Chalet is very appealing! It’s a few minutes outside of Queenstown to the north but is isolated, private, and highly modern within. Amazing. We greatly enjoy a good chalet, and this is an excellent one.
For family groups: There are some great options with two bedrooms in and around Queenstown. This extremely stylish accommodation with two bedrooms has a fully equipped kitchen AND a hot tub overlooking the lake! I’m torn between this modern unit that has views of the lake (w/ full kitchen) and this more rustic lodge in the hills northeast of Queenstown, which is right in the middle of wine growing areas.
Explore additional superb Airbnb locations in Queenstown here.
Mid-Range Hotels in Queenstown
I think this is where Queenstown really excels. There are many mid-range hotels to select from that I truly struggled choosing one (which is why we stayed in an Airbnb – more on that shortly). See the top options in Queenstown here (but don’t miss the Glebe Apartments and Lomond Lodge).
Spendthrift
We passed by the Rees multiple times on our way into town. If you are looking for a small splurge (although it truly is not that expensive considering luxury is in the name), take a look at the Rees. View prices, reviews, and more details on Booking.com.
On a Limited Budget in Queenstown?
If you’ve visited New Zealand for some time while watching your budget, you likely resided in either a YHA hostel or a Top 10 Holiday Park at some juncture during your South Island Itinerary. I know we lodged at multiple top 10 Holiday Parks. If not, now presents a great time to commence. View the highly reviewed YHA Queenstown Lakefront or the Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park (which is a bit outside of town) for affordable convenience. The Jucy Snooze is worth examination too for the locale alone – it’s regarding a two minute stroll to both the Queenstown Gondola and Fergburger, so you’ll have all the essentials blanketed (burgers and hikes).
Should you rent a car?
In order to make the most of your 3 days in Queenstown, I’d recommend renting a motor vehicle. Without transportation, you’ll find it difficult to make it to Glenorchy Wharf or the wineries located East of the city. Having a car will provide you with ultimate flexibility of movement.
That said, Queenstown has a fairly robust bus network that we used frequently to travel from our Airbnb into downtown. If you don`t have a vehicle, you`ll manage. But I`d advise having one (particularly since you`ll need it for the rest of your journey). Be sure to locate a place that permits parking.
Need to book a rental car in New Zealand? I recommend using RentalCars.com for great prices and selection.
How to Spend Your 3 Days in Queenstown
With this itinerary, you’ll sample Queenstown`s three premier offerings. Outdoor adventures. Extreme sports. Panoramic vistas.
Day 1: The Best Hike in Queenstown
For an early start to your day in Queenstown, fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your lodging before your morning cup of coffee. Then hit the road by 8am to reach the top hike with fewer crowds.
More trail information here.
It’s a truly amazing hike that originates from the Queenstown Gondola. One can either hike up the Tiki Trail, which will add to the distance and elevation gain, or take the Gondola up and begin from there, which is what we did.
Explore the Old Town on foot one day, and spend a day touring either Kakheti or Kazbegi the other day.
It will require you 6-7 hours from the base of the Gondola to the top of the peak and back downward, a 8.1 mile roundtrip hike gaining over 4,000 feet in elevation. But allow me to tell you – it’s 100% worthwhile.
Reaching the topmost point involves fairly strenuous effort. Proceed gradually, bring ample snacks and water, and you`ll be fine. If you`re not comfortable with the difficulty, we recommend hiking up to the midpoint, where the views are already spectacular, spanning the lake and townscape below. See for yourself.
Getting on the trail at 8am should allow you to complete the route and return to Queenstown by around 3 or 4pm, affording time to shower, unwind, and set out to explore the town later.
For your initial dinner, head to either Taco Medic or Erik’s Fish and Chips to recover from the day’s hiking.
Day 2: When in Queenstown, do as the Queenstowners do!
On the second day of your trip, take advantage of Queenstown`s adventures by challenging yourself physically. A thrilling option includes bungy jumping from the site credited with inventing the daring activity.
However, taking a leap into the sky by bungee jumping isn’t the only thrill-seeking activity available in Queenstown. You could literally spend your entire three days in Queenstown exclusively participating in adventure experiences. Here are a few others that may intrigue you:
- Sailing at high speed on the Shotover River
- Experiencing aerial acrobatics from above the clouds!
- Floating downstream along the scenic Shotover River
- Paddling through stunning Mt. Aspiring National Park
- A daring canopy tour through nature`s playground
An activity I regret we did not partake in was Canyoning. We were aboard a watercraft in Abel Tasman with a group raving of their canyoning excursion, and I had never formerly heard of Canyoning, and had NO IDEA what they were discussing.
The key lesson is to think about canyoning in Queenstown, and at minimum learn what it involves.”
Afternoon: Wine-ing Down in the Central Otago Wine Region
After an active morning, you`ll probably want to unwind as the afternoon arrives. What better way than at a winery that ALSO hosts a cheese tasting? Head to Wet Jacket Wines where you`ll likewise discover the Whitestone Cheese tasting room.
Earlier in our travels, we came upon Whitestone Cheese and were immediately won over after our first taste. I believe it was the brie, but over three weeks in New Zealand, we ended up selecting around four or five varieties from them.
Each time we entered a grocery store, we hurried straight to the cheese section to see if they had Whitestone. You can sample quite an extensive range of their cheeses at the tasting room just outside of Queenstown, and Wet Jacket wines has an outdoor seating location that’s the perfect place to unwind after a morning of activities.
Be sure to sample the Wet Jacket Gewurztraminer. It’s the only wine I’ve ever tasted that felt just like getting smacked in the face by a handful of apricot. It was delectable. Regrettably, Queenstown was the final stop on our trip and I didn’t have space to bring some bottles of it home with me, otherwise I would have grabbed a few bottles of it.
Numerous other wineries populate the area, but that one stood out as my preferred choice.
Interested in exploring additional wineries, but don`t want the hassle of driving yourself?
Try a guided wine tour out of Queenstown! You`ll get to learn about New Zealand winemaking, tour the Central Otago wine region, and visit 4-5 wineries. Check prices, reviews, and availability here.
Day 3: A Scenic Drive to Glenorchy & Exploring Downtown Queenstown
On your last of 3 days in Queenstown, venture somewhat out of town and explore the road to Glenorchy.
Firstly, pack a picnic. You’ll need it for lunch. Secondly, definitely don`t skip the drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy. It’s a scenic stretch of roadway. I’m not going to pretend and say that it’s THE MOST scenic, because there are many beautiful routes. But it`s pleasant, I promise.
Take your time, and be sure to pause at all the lovely spots along the route, like Bennett’s Bluff and Bob’s Cove (I wonder who Bennett and Bob were? They sound like cool persons).
The drive should take you a little under an hour, depending on traffic flow. Which could be busy with all the tour buses heading in that direction.
I found it truly challenging to be upset about slow motorists in New Zealand, which happened all the time, because the views are so exceptionally beautiful. Difficult to be irritated when you’re gazing across the lake at breathtaking views of the Remarkables. Take your time, be tolerant, and it will all be fine.
Remember packing the provisions for the picnic? This is the part where you employ them. On the way back, drive out to Moke Lake for a feast on the overlooked body of water that is somehow spared from the multitudes of tourists in and encompassing Queenstown. Stroll a distance along the trail, locate a serene spot, and lay out for some cheese, crackers, wine, and whatever else you brought along.
Spend the rest of the last of your 3 days in Queenstown circulating in and around town, taking in the relaxing vibes with a glass of lakeside wine or beer, or a game of frisbee golf on the lake.
For the evening meal to conclude your 3 day Queenstown agenda, end with the globally prestigious Fergburger. I’m especially fond of the Sweet Bambi – a deer burger with cranberry conserve and brie cheese – but you really can’t make a bad choice with any of their selections. Celiac Note: Informing them of having Celiac Disease, they will craft your burger separately with a gluten free bun. A dedicated fryer produces gluten free fries.
Other Things to Do During Your 3 Days in Queenstown
If you find yourself with over three days in Queenstown or some downtime, here are some other things to do in Queenstown.
Premier Places to Dine and Imbibe
When I reminisce about my journeys around the world, my favorite recollections generally have something to do with cuisine. I was not expecting New Zealand to be about the food, and in a lot of ways, it wasn’t. However, Queenstown (and nearby Wanaka) were a pleasant surprise. Here are some of my favorites (all have gluten free alternatives, if needed):
Fergburger: Nearly every list covering food in Queenstown includes Fergburger. If a list doesn`t, find an alternative. Fergburger serves up enormous, fantastic burgers in the heart of Queenstown. They offer gluten free choices, and informing them of a Celiac condition means your meal will be cooked separately “out back.” Order the Sweet Bambi, which is a personal favorite burger name.
Erik’s Fish and Chips: 100% gluten free fish and chips shop near the waterfront. Get everything from fish and chips to fried calamari, to fried desserts. Amazing.
Taco Medic: I’m inclined to return to a reputable eatery specializing in tacos. In that manner, I suppose I`m not particularly one-of-a-kind. But who doesn`t appreciate a quality taco? Taco Medic offers delectable tacos. And it`s completely gluten free and remarkably cost effective. Undoubtedly worthwhile visiting there on your 3 days in Queenstown AT LEAST once.
The Spice Room: Highly rated Indian cuisine. They also have another location in Wanaka.
Public Kitchen and Bar: Nice waterfront restaurant that has adequate food, great atmosphere, and a menu that differentiates between “gluten free” and “suitable for Celiacs.”
The Abundant Fig: Excellent locale for breakfast or lunch options where patrons select their preferred portion size and choose items like slow cooked lamb or glazed vegetables to enjoy. An additional location exists in Wanaka, where collectively over four visits we dined at both establishments.
The Best Coffee in Queenstown
📍 Google Maps location | Phone: (702) 437-7439 | Website address | Hours: 9 am – 12 am Sunday-Thursday, 9 am – 1 am Friday-Saturday | Entrance: free | 👉 Browse Tours on Viator
Taste some Wine
Unknown to me until arriving for 3 days in Queenstown, there’s a wine region situated about a short distance drive from the town. You can either experience one or two by self-touring in your own vehicle, or reserve a guided excursion where a local expert will guide you around to additional wineries, removing the need to worry about driving under the influence of alcohol (DO NOT DO IT). Here’s a highly rated wine tour.
Take a Scenic Flight to Milford Sound
If, for some strange reason, you’re not visiting Milford Sound on your New Zealand South Island Itinerary, then you should certainly book a day tour from Queenstown.
It’s one of the most beautifully stunning places I’ve had the pleasure of visiting, and it’s truly worth a trip there to spend a few days in complete awe of its sheer natural splendor. A scenic aerial tour and nature excursion provides an even better perspective, allowing you to see the scenery from a vantage point unavailable to the vast majority of travelers.
Final Thoughts: 3 Days in Queenstown
Queenstown is among the finest cities in New Zealand, and serves as an ideal point of entry and exit for a Two Week New Zealand Itinerary. No matter if your interests lie in adventure sports or laidback vibes, you’re certain to enjoy your time in Queenstown.
If gluten free eating is important, I have some helpful resources – I`ve compiled a couple posts you may appreciate. First is my guide for going gluten free in Queenstown and my guide for going gluten free in Wanaka, both can be found in the overall gluten free guide for New Zealand.
What aspects of Queenstown did you most enjoy? Leave me a comment – I`d be pleased to hear about your trip!
