Queenstown is one of the most stunning destinations in New Zealand. Breathtaking mountains, crystal clear lakes, and quaint small towns surround it. If you are thinking of discovering this wonderful destination, let us tell you that there are many incredible day trips from Queenstown that you shouldn’t miss.
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1. Arrowtown – A Charming Gold Rush Village
Arrowtown is a historic gold mining village with plenty of character and is one of the most popular day trips from Queenstown. This gorgeous town is just a short drive away, and it is certainly a town to see.
How long to drive from Queenstown to Arrowtown?
Driving from Queenstown to Arrowtown takes about 20 minutes. The route is gorgeous and has some breathtaking views along the way.
Wander through Arrowtown’s cute streets, visit the Lakes District Museum, and do some gold panning at the Arrow River.
2. Glenorchy – A Paradise for Nature Lovers
If you’re into road trips and scenery, then a trip to Glenorchy is what you need. The 45-minute drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is one of the most scenic in the world.
Take a jet boat trip through the Dart River or go on that famous Glenorchy Wharf and hike Routeburn Track. Outdoor lovers and photographers will have a paradise here.
3. Milford Sound – The Most Famous Fjord
One of the most famous day road trips from Queenstown is to Milford Sound. This breathtaking fjord is known as the Eighth Wonder of the World and is a must-see.
Milford Sound is about a four-hour drive from Queenstown. If you are looking for a bus day trip from Queenstown, then just relax and enjoy the views on your way.
When you get to fiord, take a cruise through and you will see waterfalls, high cliffs and, if you’re lucky, dolphins. A long trip, but worth it!
4. Wanaka – A Beautiful Lakeside Escape
Wanaka is another very good day trip destination. This town is just 1-hour drive from Queenstown, and it offers a stunning lake, adventure activities, and a cozy vibe.
Visit Lake Wanaka, hike Roy’s Peak, wander over to the infamous ‘That Wanaka Tree’, and spend the day in the best place on Earth. If you like puzzles, Puzzling World is a good stop for all ages.
5. The Remarkables – A Scenic Alpine Adventure
With mountain scenery that many love, a trip to The Remarkables is one you don’t want to miss. From year-round activities, it is an iconic mountain range. In winter, it is a paradise for skiing, and in summer, it is an ideal destination for hiking and sightseeing.
The Remarkables ski area is a 30-minute drive from Queenstown, and you can get panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu and further beyond.
6. Te Anau – The Gateway to Fiordland
The lakeside town of Te Anau is 2 hours from Queenstown. It is known as the gateway to the Fiordland National Park.
Te Anau is also the ideal base for exploring Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound if you’re going on a longer adventure.
7. Paradise – A Scenic Hidden Gem
If you’re after a stunning escape, take a day trip from Queenstown to Paradise, a remote and magnificent place close to Glenorchy. Only 1-hour drive from Queenstown, this place is very famous for its unspoiled natural beauty and was also used as a filming location for “The Lord of the Rings.”
This place is a perfect spot for a nature lap-up with not too many people around, making it one of the best day trips from Queenstown for photographers and adventurists.
8. Mount Cook – New Zealand’s Tallest Peak
It takes about 3 hours to drive to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, and it’s worth it. This is a great area to see glaciers, stunning alpine views and short hikes, such as the Hooker Valley Track.
9. Cardrona – A Historic Alpine Village
Cardrona is just about 1 hour from Queenstown but is known for its ski fields in winter and as a scenic locale at other times of the year. Have a meal at the iconic Cardrona Hotel and traverse the mountain trails.
10. Skippers Canyon – A Thrilling Adventure
The adventure trip into Skippers Canyon is just 40 minutes from Queenstown. It is one of New Zealand’s most exciting drives as the road is narrow and winding. A good place to explore this is on a guided 4WD tour.
11. Kingston – A Quiet Lakeside Retreat
Kingston is a peaceful lakeside town nestled at the foot of the Southern Alps of New Zealand, 40 minutes drive south of Queenstown, with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu. It’s a fantastic place to escape from the crowds in a quiet spot.
12. Doubtful Sound – A Remote Fjord Adventure
Doubtful Sound, a less visited but just as beautiful fjord. The journey takes you two hours by car to Manapouri, then gets you on a boat to cross the lake and onto a bus at the fjord. It’s an unforgettable experience.
13. Lake Hayes – A Short Scenic Escape
Only 15 minutes from Queenstown, Lake Hayes is also a fantastic picnic spot. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially at sunrise or sunset.
14. Haast – A Journey to the Wild West Coast
A real adventure deserves a full-day trip to the isolated Haast, which is on the wild and remote West Coast south of Queenstown. It is about a 3.5-hour drive through stunning mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and lush rainforests.
Visit Thunder Creek Falls or take a jet boat ride down the Haast River once you are there. For nature lovers, this trip is perfect and one of the best day trips from Queenstown.
15. Moke Lake – A Serene Hidden Gem
Located 20 minutes from Queenstown, Moke Lake is a peaceful lake. The drive there is scenic, and at once you’re there you can hike, kayak, or hang out among the peaceful waters.
A Day in Queenstown – What to Do If You Stay
If you prefer to stay in town, a day in Queenstown can still be an incredible experience. You can take the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views, go jet boating on the Shotover River, or enjoy a relaxing lakeside stroll.
If you’re into food, treat yourself to a famous Fergburger or enjoy a lakeside meal at one of the many excellent restaurants.
FAQs
1. What are the beautiful towns near Queenstown?
The towns around Queenstown include Arrowtown, Wanaka, Glenorchy, Cromwell, and Kingston.
2. How many days in Queenstown is enough?
A stay of between 3 and 5 days is ideal in Queenstown to have a good experience. It offers enough time to explore the town, take some day trips and do some adventure activities.
3. Where to go after Queenstown?
The next destinations from Queenstown include Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park, together with Dunedin and Mount Cook. These three destinations provide visitors with astonishing views alongside specific attractions for each location.
Conclusion
From Queenstown, there are lots of great options for exploring New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes. There are a lot of best day trips from Queenstown to pick from if you want to explore charming historical towns, visit fjords, or try lakeside serenity. Get ready to pack your bags, hit the road, and have an unforgettable 2025!
