One Week in Queenstown Itinerary: Your Local’s Guide

A perfect week in Queenstown combines thrilling adventure with serene scenery. Start downtown exploring Lake Wakatipu and riding the Skyline Gondola. Dedicate two days to adrenaline activities like bungee jumping and jet boating. Take a day trip to breathtaking Milford Sound, then unwind with Central Otago wine tours. Discover hidden gems in Glenorchy and Paradise Valley before saying goodbye with Bob’s Peak panoramas and a meal at The Grille. This local’s guide guarantees you’ll experience Queenstown’s true magic.

Day 1: Getting Your Bearings in Downtown Queenstown

After arriving in Queenstown, you’ll need to spend your first day exploring the downtown area to get oriented. Start with a morning stroll through Queenstown Gardens for stunning lake views. Then snap a photo at the iconic Moa Statue.

Begin your Queenstown adventure in the heart of town – the Gardens and Moa Statue provide perfect first-day orientation.

For lunch, join the queue at Fergburger – trust me, it’s worth the wait.

In the afternoon, ride the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak for panoramic views of the entire region. The Queenstown Gondola provides access to extensive bike trails and is popular for first-time zip lining enthusiasts. If you have more time in New Zealand, consider adding Dunedin’s attractions to your itinerary. As the day winds down, walk along the lakeshore and watch the sunset over Lake Wakatipu.

Cap off your evening with dinner at Blue Kanu, followed by drinks at 1876 or The Sundeck to experience Queenstown’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Days 2-3: Adrenaline Rush – Adventure Activities Around Lakeside

Now that you’re familiar with downtown, it’s time to kick your Queenstown experience into high gear. The next two days are all about embracing the town’s adventure heritage.

Head to the iconic Kawarau Bridge for a classic bungee jump where this commercial thrill began in the 1980s. If you’d rather stay dry, book a Shotover Jet boat ride for heart-pounding rapids navigation.

For breathtaking perspectives, try skydiving or paragliding over Lake Wakatipu – the views are unbeatable. Tourism data from the MBIE Tourism Centre reveals these adventure activities remain consistently popular with international visitors.

Start Day 3 with white-water rafting on the Kawarau River, suitable for all experience levels. Later, take the gondola up to Bob’s Peak for mountain biking or luge rides. Queenstown offers something for every visitor with its local’s ultimate guide providing insider tips on the best adventure spots.

These activities aren’t just tourist attractions; they’re deeply connected to Queenstown’s pioneering spirit dating back to 19th-century mountaineering and gold mining adventures.

Day 4: Scenic Day Trip to Milford Sound

Considered by many to be the highlight of any South Island journey, a day trip to Milford Sound offers some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery. You’ll depart early from Queenstown on a luxury glass-roof coach that makes the journey as memorable as the destination.

Along Milford Road, you’ll stop at Mirror Lakes and Homer Tunnel for quick photos before entering Fiordland National Park.

The cruise itself showcases towering Mitre Peak, with chances to spot seals and dolphins in their natural habitat. Most tours arrive at Milford Sound at lunchtime and include a comprehensive cruise with expert commentary.

For the adventurous, upgrade to a scenic flight return option for spectacular aerial views.

Pack layers, as weather changes quickly, and don’t forget your camera! Book this popular excursion well in advance, especially during peak season.

This majestic fiord is widely recognized as one of New Zealand’s attractions that absolutely cannot be missed on any comprehensive South Island itinerary.

Day 5: Wine Tasting and Relaxation in Central Otago

Following the adrenaline and natural wonders of Milford Sound, your fifth day invites you to savor Central Otaga’s renowned wine region at a more leisurely pace.

Book a small-group wine tour departing from Queenstown to explore the region’s world-class Pinot Noir. Most tours visit 4-5 wineries across Gibbston Valley and Arrowtown over 4-6 hours, with knowledgeable guides sharing local insights. Popular stops include Amisfield, Peregrine, and Gibbston Valley Winery. Consider booking with Appellation Wine Tours, offering 23+ years of experience as Queenstown’s leading premium wine tour company.

For something different, try a self-guided bike tour through vineyard trails with a shuttle return option. Many tours include a gourmet lunch stop at a vineyard restaurant, where you’ll pair local cuisine with spectacular mountain views.

While enjoying the local wines, you might learn about Māori traditions that have influenced New Zealand’s unique cultural landscape.

Remember to book your experience in advance—these popular tours fill quickly, especially in peak season.

Day 6: Exploring Hidden Gems in Glenorchy and Paradise

After unwinding among vineyards, your sixth day takes you to one of New Zealand’s most magical areas. Drive 45 minutes from Queenstown to Glenorchy, where the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu reveals breathtaking landscapes that captivated Lord of the Rings filmmakers.

Start at the Glenorchy Lagoon Scenic Walkway, a 5km boardwalk perfect for birdwatching and photos. After lunch, venture to Paradise Valley – aptly named for its serene beauty. You’ll recognize several filming locations that doubled as Middle-earth. The area offers a completely different experience from the geothermal attractions you might find in other regions of New Zealand. Consider joining the highly rated Glenorchy & Paradise Half-Day Scenic Tour for expert commentary on the region’s highlights.

For adventure seekers, try jet boating on Lake Wakatipu or book a guided safari. Don’t miss the Isengard Lookout for spectacular mountain views.

End your day at the Glenorchy Waterfront Reserve, where the sunset creates a photographer’s dream against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks.

Day 7: Farewell to Queenstown – Final Views and Local Favorites

As your Queenstown adventure draws to a close, make your final day count with a perfect blend of scenic views and local treasures. Start with breakfast at Vudu Cafe, a beloved spot for locals that serves delicious morning fare.

Take a leisurely morning stroll through Queenstown Gardens to soak in peaceful waterfront views.

For your final adventure, ride the Queenstown Gondola up to Bob’s Peak for panoramic vistas of the town, Lake Wakatipu, and The Remarkables.

Treat yourself to lunch at Fergburger—you can’t leave without trying their famous burgers.

Spend your afternoon walking along Queenstown Bay, reflecting on your week’s adventures and perhaps exploring some of the free activities that showcase the region’s natural beauty. If you’re planning future New Zealand travels, consider adding Rotorua’s attractions to your itinerary for an entirely different Kiwi experience.

End your visit with a farewell dinner at The Grille by Eichardt’s, sampling local specialties before bidding farewell to this breathtaking destination.

Last Words

Your Queenstown week’s a perfect blend of heart-pumping thrills and soul-soothing beauty. Don’t telegraph your departure by acting like a tourist on day 7—real locals know the best farewell is watching sunrise at Bob’s Peak. Pack these memories tighter than a telegram from the old country. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or wine trails, you’ve now got the inside track on experiencing Queenstown like a true local.