Queenstown is a great destination for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and those looking to unwind in a stunning alpine setting. This vibrant town offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re planning a road trip around New Zealand or looking for a centrally located spot within walking distance of the best attractions, Queenstown has it all.
Choosing where to stay in Queenstown can be overwhelming, but we’ve got you covered. With options ranging from budget-friendly to high-end luxury, and locations just minutes drive from Queenstown’s main attractions, there’s something for everyone. So, get ready to explore Queenstown and make the most of your stay in this beautiful part of New Zealand. Whether you’re here for a ski holiday, a romantic getaway, or an adventurous road trip, Queenstown is a great place to start your journey.
Our List of The Best Hotels in Queenstown 🔝
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Spire Hotel
- ✨ 5-Star: QT Queenstown
- 🏨 4-Star: Scenic Suites Queenstown
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Bolton Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: B-K's Esplanade Motor Lodge
- 🏢 Apartament: Glenorchy Retreat Apartment
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Kinloch Lodge
- 🏩 For Couples: Ecoscapes
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Queenstown 📋
- 🛍️ For Shopping and Nightlife: Central Queenstown
- 🏔️ For Stunning Mountain and Lake Views: Fernhill
- ✈️ For Convenience Near the Airport: Frankton
- ⛷️ For Ski Access and Hot Pools: Arthurs Point
- 🏰 For Historic Charm and Tranquility: Arrowtown
- 🍷 For Wineries and Relaxation: Gibbston Valley
- 🗺️ For Middle-earth: Glenorchy
- ⛳ For Golfing: Kelvin Heights
- 🌅 For Serene Lakeside Walks: Sunshine Bay
1. Central Queenstown – Best Place in New Zealand for Shopping, Dining and Adventure 🛍️
🏔️ Action central: Central Queenstown is the beating heart of this vibrant alpine town, and it’s where I always base myself when visiting. The energy here is electric, with a buzzing dining scene, endless shopping options, and adrenaline-pumping activities right on your doorstep.
🛍️ Shop & dine: Now, let’s dive into some of my favorite things to do in central Queenstown:
- Hit the shops: Queenstown is a shopper’s paradise, and the town center is packed with souvenir stores and outdoor gear shops. Make sure to check out iconic New Zealand brands like Icebreaker and Kathmandu.
- Indulge your taste buds: The dining scene here is out of this world. Some of my top picks include Rata (run by a Michelin-starred chef), Botswana Butchery (amazing lake views), and Fergburger (best burgers in NZ!).
🪂 Thrills & chills: Queenstown is the adventure capital of NZ, and there are countless thrilling activities to try, many just a short walk from the town center. Jet boating on Lake Wakatipu, bungy jumping off Kawarau Bridge, skydiving over The Remarkables – take your pick!
- Relax and unwind: After all that excitement, you’ll be ready for some R&R. Many of the hotels in town have incredible spas where you can bliss out with a massage or facial. I recommend the Eforea Spa at the Hilton – pure heaven.
💡 Insider tips:
- Parking can be tricky (and pricey) in central Queenstown, so I suggest ditching the car and exploring on foot. Everything is so close!
- Queenstown gets busy, especially in peak ski season (June-August) and summer (December-February), so book your accommodation well in advance for the best deals.
- For breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, ride the Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak. The vistas from the top are unbeatable.
Best Accommodation in Queenstown 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in central Queenstown
- The Spire Hotel – The Spire Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel in Queenstown, just a 2-minute walk from Lake Wakatipu. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, featuring free WiFi, a balcony, and a gas fireplace.
- Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa – Located centrally, Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa blends French luxury with local charm. The rooms are elegant, with marble bathrooms, double spa baths, and underfloor heating, making it a perfect choice for a luxurious stay.
- QT Queenstown – QT Queenstown offers luxury accommodation with stunning views of the Southern Alps. The rooms are modern and stylish, and the hotel features an outdoor swimming pool and a vibrant bar.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront – Centrally located, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with great views of the mountains. It features a seasonal outdoor pool, spa pools, and a gym.
- Scenic Suites Queenstown – This hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning views. It’s a great option for a comfortable and affordable stay.
- Turner Heights Townhouses – These apartments are a 2-minute walk from the heart of Queenstown and offer free WiFi, satellite TV, and cooking facilities. The views from the apartments are excellent.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Nomads Queenstown Hostel – Located in the heart of Queenstown, Nomads offers a variety of room types, from dormitories to private rooms. Many rooms have balconies with views of the Remarkables.
- Adventure Queenstown Hostel – This centrally located hostel features a tour desk, free bikes, and a shared lounge. The rooms are comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
- The Flaming Kiwi Backpackers – The Flaming Kiwi offers free WiFi and mountain views from the rooms. The hostel has barbecue facilities, a shared kitchen, and a large common area.
2. Frankton – Best Area to Stay Near the Airport 🛬
🛍️ Shop & dine: The area is packed with shopping centers, cafes, and restaurants. Remarkables Park and Five Mile are the main shopping hubs, offering everything from big box stores to little shops. For dining, you can’t miss local favorites like Fogo Brazilian BBQ and Nest Kitchen + Bar.
🚶 Easy access: One of the best things about staying in Frankton is its easy access to both the airport and central Queenstown. The public bus network, Orbus, connects Frankton to downtown Queenstown, making it a breeze to get around. Plus, many hotels offer complimentary shuttles to key attractions.
🏞️ Amazing views: Frankton is not just convenient; it’s also incredibly scenic. With views of the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu, you’ll find plenty of spots to relax and take in the natural beauty. Frankton Beach is a quieter alternative to Queenstown Beach, perfect for a peaceful day by the water.
⛷️ Adventure ready: If you’re here for adventure, Frankton is a great place to stay. It’s just a short drive to the base of The Remarkables Ski Area, making it ideal for ski trips. Plus, with easy access to hiking trails and golf courses, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy.
💡 Insider tips:
- Parking: Parking is generally easier and cheaper in Frankton compared to central Queenstown.
- Book early: Frankton gets busy during peak seasons, so it’s best to book your accommodation well in advance.
- Local transport: Use the $2 Orbus service for affordable and convenient travel around Queenstown.
Best Hotels in Frankton 🏨
⭐ Luxury hotels in Frankton
- Sudima Queenstown Five Mile – Located in the heart of the Frankton Five Mile Shopping Centre, this hotel features elegant, modern décor with comfortable rooms and large showers.
- Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park, an IHG Hotel – This hotel offers rooms with mountain views, smart TVs, and spacious bathrooms. The lobby café and bar provide stunning views of The Remarkables.
- The Rees Hotel & Luxury Apartments – This highly-rated hotel offers lakefront accommodations with private balconies and views of the surrounding mountains.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Ramada Suites by Wyndham Queenstown Remarkables Park – This hotel offers comfortable rooms with kitchen facilities and great views, located close to shopping and dining options.
- Holiday Inn Queenstown Frankton Road – This hotel offers rooms with panoramic views of The Remarkables.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Black Sheep Backpackers – This hostel offers a range of private and shared rooms, with great amenities like a sauna, BBQ facilities, and a social atmosphere.
- Haka Lodge Queenstown – Haka Lodge provides budget accommodation with a touch of luxury, featuring stylish rooms and a central location.
3. Kelvin Heights – Luxurious Peninsula for Golfing ⛳
🏞️ Scenic beauty: Kelvin Heights is a stunning residential area near the center of Queenstown. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this peninsula offers views of the Remarkables mountain range and the pristine alpine waters. It’s a great place to explore if you want to stay somewhere quieter yet still within easy reach of downtown Queenstown.
⛳ Golf paradise: The Queenstown Golf Club, located in Kelvin Heights, is one of the most picturesque golf courses in the world. With its 18-hole, par 72 layout, this course is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts. The rolling hills and water features create a challenging yet enjoyable experience. Plus, the views from every hole are simply breathtaking.
🍽️ Dining options: After a day on the greens, you can unwind at the club’s bar and restaurant, which offers a range of delicious meals and drinks. The Boat Shed Cafe and Bistro is another local favorite, providing a cozy spot to enjoy a meal with stunning lake views. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the Wakatipu Grill at the nearby Hilton.
🚶 Outdoor activities: Kelvin Heights is not just about golf. The area is crisscrossed with amazing walking and cycling trails, including the popular Kelvin Peninsula Trail. This 90-minute loop offers beautiful views of the lake and mountains, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. You can also take a water taxi from the peninsula to explore Queenstown central.
💡 Insider tips:
- Transport: While Kelvin Heights is a bit removed from the hustle and bustle, it’s still within a 15-minute drive from Queenstown Airport and central Queenstown. Having a car is convenient, but the area is also well-serviced by public transport.
- Activities: Don’t miss out on a day trip to Coronet Peak Ski Resort. It’s a fantastic way to explore New Zealand’s South Island and enjoy some winter sports.
Where to stay in Kelvin Heights? 🏨
- DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown – This private hotel offers modern rooms with kitchenettes and stunning views of Lake Wakatipu.
- Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa – This Queenstown resort is situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and features 5-star amenities including an indoor pool, fitness center, and day spa. The elegant rooms and suites come with gas fireplaces and great views, making it a great way to explore New Zealand.
- Queenstown Village Apartments – The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, perfect for couples looking for a serene getaway just minutes drive from Queenstown.
4. Fernhill – Stunning Views and Hiking Trails 🥾
🥾 Hiking paradise: One of the best ways to explore Fernhill is by hitting the trails. The Fernhill Loop Track is a local favorite, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike with stunning alpine views. For a longer adventure, you can connect this trail to the Ben Lomond Track and even the Tiki Trail, making it a fantastic way to explore New Zealand’s natural beauty.
🍽️ Dining options: While Fernhill is primarily residential, it boasts some excellent dining spots. Nest Kitchen & Bar at Kamana Lakehouse is a must-visit, offering delicious meals with panoramic views. For a more casual meal, head to South Eatery, where you can enjoy local produce and a cozy atmosphere.
🏞️ Main sights:
- Skyline Queenstown: This iconic sight offers gondola rides with spectacular views and thrilling luge rides.
- TSS Earnslaw: Take a scenic cruise on this historic steamship and enjoy the stunning landscapes of Lake Wakatipu.
- Queenstown Gardens: Perfect for a leisurely stroll, these gardens offer beautiful flora and serene lakeside views.
- Ben Lomond Track: Accessible from Fernhill, this challenging hike rewards you with panoramic views of Queenstown and beyond.
Best Accommodation in Fernhill area 🏨
- Mercure Queenstown Resort – The rooms are spacious and comfortable, featuring free WiFi and air conditioning. The hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool, spa pools, and a gym, making it a great Queenstown accommodation option.
- Heritage Queenstown – This sophisticated hotel, crafted from stone and cedar, offers spectacular views of Queenstown. It features an outdoor swimming pool, spa pool, fitness center, and sauna.
- Kamana Lakehouse – Just a 5-minute drive from the central Queenstown location, Kamana Lakehouse offers beautiful rooms with contemporary decor and premium beds. The hotel features free WiFi, an outdoor seating area, and a restaurant that focuses on local ingredients.
5. Arrowtown – Historic Charm and Gold Panning 🏰
🏞️ Historic charm: Arrowtown is a delightful historic town just a 20-minute drive from the center of Queenstown. This former gold mining settlement is a step back in time, with its preserved 19th-century buildings and charming streets. If you want to experience a slice of New Zealand’s history, Arrowtown is the perfect area to stay.
💰 Gold panning: One of the unique sights in Arrowtown is the opportunity to try your hand at gold panning in the Arrow River. It’s a fun activity for all ages and a great way to connect with the town’s gold rush heritage. You might even strike it lucky and find a nugget or two!
🍽️ Dining options: Despite its small size, Arrowtown boasts some fantastic dining spots. The Chop Shop Food Merchants is a local favorite for brunch, while Aosta offers a unique blend of Italian and New Zealand cuisine. For a special treat, head to the historic Arrowtown Bakery for their famous pies.
🏞️ Main sights:
- Arrowtown Chinese Settlement: Explore this historic area to learn about the Chinese miners who came during the gold rush.
- Lakes District Museum: A must-visit for history buffs, this museum offers fascinating insights into Arrowtown’s past.
- Arrow River Trail: Perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride, this trail offers beautiful scenery and a glimpse into the town’s gold mining history.
Where to Stay in Arrowtown? 🏨
⭐ Luxury hotels in Arrowtown
- Millbrook Resort – This luxurious 5-star retreat is set on 650 acres of beautiful countryside, featuring a 27-hole championship golf course, a health and fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- Arrowtown Lodge – Located just a 2-minute walk from Arrowtown’s shops, bars, and restaurants, this charming place offers luxury accommodations in heritage-style cottages.
- Arrowtown House Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel in Arrowtown offers stylish rooms with modern amenities and a cozy atmosphere. It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore the town’s sights and enjoy the local dining scene.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Arrowtown Motel – This lovely motel offers comfortable studios and apartments with patios and outdoor seating. It’s within walking distance to Arrowtown’s popular restaurants and cafes.
- New Orleans Hotel – Situated in the heart of Arrowtown, this historic hotel offers comfortable rooms with a touch of old-world charm.
- Arrowtown Born of Gold Holiday Park – This holiday park offers a range of accommodation options, from cabins to powered sites for campers. It’s a great budget-friendly option.
6. Arthur’s Point – Outdoor Adventures and Hot Pools 🚣
🏞️ Adventure hub: Arthur’s Point is a fantastic area to stay if you’re looking for outdoor adventures. Just a 10-minute drive from the center of Queenstown, this spot offers easy access to some of the best activities around. Whether you’re into jet boating, hiking, or simply soaking in hot pools, Arthur’s Point has it all.
🚤 Thrilling activities: One of the main sights here is the Shotover Jet, an exhilarating jet boat ride through the Shotover River canyons. It’s a must-do for adrenaline junkies. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the area offers beautiful walking trails with stunning alpine views.
🛁 Relaxing hot pools: The Onsen Hot Pools are a highlight of Arthur’s Point. These private outdoor hot tubs offer a serene and relaxing experience with spectacular views of the Shotover River. It’s the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring.
🏞️ Main sights:
- Shotover Jet: Experience the thrill of jet boating through narrow canyons at high speeds.
- Onsen Hot Pools: Enjoy a private hot tub with stunning river views.
- Moonlight Track: A popular hiking trail offering beautiful scenery and a chance to spot local wildlife.
- Coronet Peak Ski Field: This ski field is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.
Best Hotels in Queenstown, Arthur’s Point 🏨
⭐ Luxury hotels in Arthur’s Point
- Nugget Point Resort and Spa – This intimate boutique hotel offers spacious rooms with patios or balconies, stunning views of the Shotover River, and luxurious spa facilities including an indoor pool, steam room, and sauna.
- QS Marina Apartments – These self-contained apartments are located on the Queenstown waterfront, offering modern kitchens, balconies, and stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range.
- La Residence du Parc 18 – Set in a quiet area of Queenstown, this apartment hotel offers self-contained units with kitchens, laundry facilities, and free parking, some with lake or mountain views.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- The Canyons Lodge – This luxury hotel in Arthurs Point features villa-style suites with private balconies, fireplaces, and spa baths, along with amenities like an outdoor pool and hot tubs.
- Sherwood – Located in a quiet area of Queenstown, Sherwood offers rooms, suites, and self-contained villas with kitchenettes, an outdoor pool, hot tubs, and an on-site restaurant.
- Goldridge Resort – Situated in Arthurs Point, this resort features self-contained villas with full kitchens, private patios, and amenities like an outdoor pool, hot tubs, and tennis courts.
7. Sunshine Bay – Best Place for Serene Lakeside Walks 🌅
🏞️ Tranquil escape: Sunshine Bay is a peaceful lakeside suburb near the centre of Queenstown. It offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the town center, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil base to explore the region.
🚶♀️ Lakeside trails: One of the main draws of Sunshine Bay is the opportunity to enjoy scenic walks along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The Sunshine Bay Track is a popular 4km loop that takes you through native bush and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
🍽️ Dining delights: While Sunshine Bay itself is primarily residential, it’s just a short drive from the dining and entertainment options in central Queenstown. Alternatively, you can pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the lake after your walk.
🏞️ Main sights:
- Sunshine Bay Track: This 4km loop trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Two Mile Creek Falls: A short side trail off the Sunshine Bay Track leads to a beautiful waterfall.
- Bob’s Cove: This scenic spot offers breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
Where to Stay in Sunshine Bay? 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- Boulcott Suites – The hotel offers a range of stylish accommodations from studios to four-bedroom townhouses, featuring fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and free WiFi.
- Bolton Hotel – This elegant boutique hotel in the Wellington central business district offers spacious studios and suites with free WiFi, in-room iPad minis, and views of Bolton Memorial Park or downtown Wellington.
- InterContinental Wellington – This 5-star hotel features elegant rooms, an indoor heated pool, and a fitness center.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Museum Apartment Hotel, Independent Collection by EVT – This hotel offers luxurious accommodations with excellent amenities, including an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining options.
- B-K's Esplanade Motor Lodge – This motor hotel offers comfortable and modern accommodations with free WiFi, kitchen facilities, and private balconies.
8. Glenorchy – Gateway to Middle-earth 🗺️
🏞️ Scenic gem: This area is a picturesque town located just a 45-minute drive from Queenstown. Nestled at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, it offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. If you’re a fan of “The Lord of the Rings,” you’ll recognize many of the landscapes from the films, making it a must-visit for any Tolkien enthusiast.
🗺️ Middle-earth magic: The area is often referred to as the “Gateway to Middle-earth” due to its breathtaking scenery and its role as a filming location for the iconic movie series. Take a guided tour to explore the exact spots where scenes from “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” were filmed. It’s a magical experience that brings the fantasy world to life.
🍽️ Dining options: While the town is small, it boasts some delightful dining spots. The Glenorchy Cafe is a local favorite, offering hearty meals and a cozy atmosphere. For a more upscale experience, head to The Dining Room at The Headwaters Eco Lodge, where you can enjoy gourmet dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
🏞️ Main sights:
- Paradise: This area offers stunning landscapes and was a key filming location for “The Lord of the Rings.”
- Dart River: Take a jet boat tour or a guided kayak trip to explore this beautiful river and its surrounding wilderness.
- Routeburn Track: One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, this track offers breathtaking views and a chance to experience the country’s natural beauty up close.
- Glenorchy Animal Experience: A fun stop for families, where you can interact with farm animals and learn about rural life in New Zealand.
Where to Stay in Glenorchy? 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- Glenorchy Retreat Apartment – This beautifully designed apartment offers a fully equipped kitchenette, washing machine, and free WiFi, with a private entrance and soundproofing, located 22 miles from Lake Wakatipu.
- Kinloch Lodge – Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this hotel offers a range of accommodations from dormitory rooms to private suites, featuring a hot tub, sauna, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
- Ecoscapes – Located in a stunning natural setting, Ecoscapes offers eco-friendly accommodations with modern amenities, including a private deck with lake views, a kitchenette, and a luxurious bathroom.
FAQs about Visiting Queenstown❔
What area of Queenstown should I stay in?
Stay in central Queenstown for access to nightlife, dining, and activities
Is it better to stay in Wanaka or Queenstown?
Queenstown is better for more activities and nightlife, while Wanaka offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere
How many days do you need in Queenstown?
You need at least 3-4 days to experience the main sights and activities in Queenstown.
Is Queenstown a walkable city?
Yes, Queenstown is very walkable, especially in the downtown area.
What is the best month to go to Queenstown?
The best month to visit Queenstown is December for warm weather and outdoor activities.
