The Ultimate Queenstown (NZ) Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Queenstown, NZ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

Queenstown is the largest town in the Otago region of New Zealand, with a population of around 20,000.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Southern Alps, the town is famous for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.
Queenstown has a rich history rooted in gold mining and tourism, with its first gold discovered in the 1860s.
Nickname: The Adventure Capital of the World

Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
Spoken Languages: English, Māori.
Best time to visit: December to February for warm, sunny weather ideal for outdoor activities. Winter (June to August) attracts ski enthusiasts with snow-covered mountains.
Arriving via airport: Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is just 8 km from the town centre. Shuttles to Queenstown cost around NZD 12-15, while taxis will vary from NZD 35-50.

The town centre offers a variety of accommodations, including hostels, hotels, and luxury lodges, making it an excellent base for exploring.
Frankton is a quieter area with breathtaking lake views and a selection of budget-friendly motels.
Arrowtown, a charming historic village just 20 minutes away, offers a unique experience and picturesque surroundings.

Queenstown is well-connected by public transport, including buses that run frequently between various points of interest. Suggested fares are NZD 2-5 for a single journey.
For more flexibility, rental cars are available, starting from NZD 50-100 per day.
Bikes can be rented for cycling around the beautiful trails, with most places charging around NZD 40-60 a day.
For a unique experience, consider the Skyline Gondola which not only provides stunning views but also offers mountain biking trails and dining options at the top.
Lake Wakatipu cruises are both a transportation option and sightseeing activity.

The legal drinking age is 18, and venues typically stay open until the early hours.
For a lively bar scene, visit the town centre, where you will find a mix of pubs, cocktail bars, and nightclubs.
Popular bars to consider: World Bar (famous for its cocktails), Eichardt’s Bar (upmarket atmosphere), and Minus 5 Ice Bar (a unique frozen experience).
For clubbing, check out Club Santiago’s and the famous Base Backpackers nightclub.
Live music enthusiasts can see local acts regularly at various venues; check out local listings for events during your visit.

Skyline Queenstown offers stunning panoramic views of the region and access to thrilling luge rides.
The historic precinct of Arrowtown, with its preserved Gold Rush-era buildings and charming aesthetics.
The Remarkables mountain range is not only a fantastic ski destination, but it also boasts hiking trails and stunning vistas year-round.
Nevis Jump – one of the highest swings in the world (134 meters/440 feet) with 8.5 seconds of free fall.

Kiwi Park: a 5-acre wildlife center in central Queenstown showcasing native wildlife.
Tiki Trail: well-maintained path through pine forest with historical signboards and unique ‘Basket of Dreams’ sculpture.
Lake Wakatipu: crystal-clear waters and opportunities for kayaking and photography.
The Queenstown Hill Time Walk is a picturesque trail that offers stunning views, lasting around 2-3 hours.
Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, is accessible from Queenstown and offers various guided options for longer excursions (generally a multi-day trek).
Lakeside strolls along the Queenstown Waterfront provide a relaxing escape and an opportunity to witness the beauty of Lake Wakatipu.

A must-try local restaurant is Fergburger (or Ferg’s Bar, their sister establishment), renowned for delicious gourmet burgers.
Great restaurant options include:
– The Cow Restaurant (pizzeria)
– Rātā (fine dining)
– Vudu Café & Larder (casual brunch)
– Bespoke Kitchen (for casual dining)
– Jervois Steak House (Price range: NZD 34-90 for mains)
– The Stratosfare Restaurant
Reservations are recommended at popular places, especially during peak seasons.
Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in bars and restaurants.
For a hidden gem, seek out the quaint gardens and tea at the historic Bathhouse.
Food tours are an alternative way to experience local cuisine – the “cruise and BBQ lunch” is a popular experience.

Thrill-seekers should try bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge or enjoy jet boating on the Kawarau River for an adrenaline rush.
Ziplining courses are available year-round, including winter with snow-covered landscapes.
Be cautious around the lakefront and mountain areas—strong winds can change temperatures quickly, and the sun can be deceptive at altitude.
Dangerous areas: look out for any areas with tourist-focused scams. While Queenstown is generally safe, travelers should be cautious in crowded locations.

Recommended trip duration: 3-6 days (depending if you do a multi-day trek or not)