Top Queenstown Day Trips

Milford Sound Coach and Cruise tour from Queenstown

12 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(957)

from $166

Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown

Travel from Queenstown to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Milford Sound on an easy day trip. Enjoy live commentary along the way, and many scenic photo stops. At Milford Sound, don’t worry about waiting in lines as tickets are included. Admire views of waterfalls and Mitre Peak from your cruise. Refuel with a tasty picnic lunch in a scenic location. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from listed locations for added convenience.

Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour & Cruise from Queenstown

Located several hours from Queenstown by car and unreachable by public transport, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (part of Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area) can be tricky for travelers to reach. Cover the journey there and back on this small-group tour, stopping off at several scenic spots along the route, before free time to explore the national park at your leisure. Take a hike along one of its trails, unwind with a hot chocolate (own expense), or take in the dramatic scenery.

(3,622)

from $223

Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park Small-Group Tour from Queenstown

Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park Small-Group Tour from Queenstown

Glenorchy sits along a stunningly beautiful stretch of road from Queenstown to the (aptly named) rural settlement of Paradise. Instead of trying to negotiate these unfamiliar country roads on your own, get a driver who knows the region on a half-day trip. Spend time exploring Glenorchy’s shops and café, take advantage of some remarkable alpine photo ops, and see some of the locations where scenes from famous movies were filmed.

(437)

from $166

Glenorchy & Paradise Half-Day Scenic Tour from Queenstown

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Round-trip flights between Queenstown and Milford Sound save you hours of road-travel time in Fiordland National Park. Following a scenic flight with views of snow-covered peaks, remote valleys, and waterfalls, touch down for a cruise on Milford Sound. Traveling by both air and water takes you to dramatic places you'd miss by sticking to the road. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for selected central Queenstown accommodations.

(483)

from $114

Milford Sound Flight and Cruise Tour from Queenstown

Milford Sound Flight and Cruise Tour from Queenstown

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

(2,168)

from $481

Take a break and escape into nature on this tour of Milford Sound in the World Heritage Fiordland National Park. Relax as you visit one of New Zealand’s notable Fjords, taking in the waterfalls at Mirror Lake and the fresh glacier water at Monkey Walk. Then, take to the water itself with a boat cruise on Milford Sound. Perfect for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in the South Island’s landscape.

Milford Sound Day Tour with Scenic Cruise from Queenstown

Milford Sound Day Tour with Scenic Cruise from Queenstown

Cruise Milford Small Group Day Tour from Queenstown

4.6

(566)

from $192

Milford Sound Cruise with Round-Trip Flights from Queenstown

(45)

from $223

5 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(406)

from $465

Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Small Group Tour from Queenstown

Experience Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park in a small group with a knowledgeable local guide, combining spectacular alpine scenery with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Travel beyond the main tourist route through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge and Lindis Pass, with scenic stops at Lake Pukaki and opportunities to discover local favourites along the way. Once at Mt Cook, enjoy free time to choose how you experience this remarkable landscape, from walking the famous Hooker Valley Track to simply taking in the views of New Zealand's highest peak. With personalised guiding, plenty of photo opportunities, and a relaxed pace, this tour offers more than just a transfer—it’s a memorable journey into the heart of the Southern Alps.

Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Small Group Tour from Queenstown

12 hoursFree Cancellation

See Arrowtown and Wanaka through the eyes of a local rather than a first-time visitor on a half-day tour from Queenstown that explores local history and landscapes. You’ll have time to stroll Arrowtown’s charming main street, built during Otago’s 19th-century gold rush, then enjoy an hour of free time to see Wanaka at your own pace for a balanced sightseeing experience. Return to Queenstown through the Crown Range, winding through towering peaks and high passes.

(337)

from $166

Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour from Queenstown

6 hours

Avoid the stress of self-driving through distractingly beautiful landscapes on a full-day tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Peer through the panoramic windows of a luxury coach as you travel through UNESCO World Heritage–listed Fiordland National Park with a guide, stopping at sites of interest en route. At Milford Sound, board a catamaran for a memorable sightseeing cruise past Mitre Peak and magnificent cliff-side waterfalls. Look out for wildlife, too.

(285)

from $126

Special Offer

Glass Roof coaches with free WiFi to soak up the views

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise & Glass-Roof Coach Tour

12 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Come aboard New Zealand’s first and only winery cruise tour. Whether you’re celebrating with a memorable birthday outing or simply treating yourself, this is a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else. Your day includes: - Visits to three standout Central Otago wineries: Matt Connell Wines, Carrick, and Cloudy Bay's "The Shed" - A guided experience with relaxed, informative commentary throughout the day - Three scenic cruises, one between each winery - Complimentary pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation within the Cromwell area — anywhere from Bannockburn to Pisa Moorings - Complimentary tastings at Matt Connell Wines

Winery Cruise Tour

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Combine our Half Day in Middle Earth with a second Half Day Adventure into another part of Middle Earth with our partner company. We have a 1-1.5 hour lunch break back in Queenstown and change buses for the afternoon tour. Morning and Afternoon Tour itineraries are interchangeable and can be switched due to availability or weather conditions. You will be visiting the Skippers Canyon Lookout (weather permitting), Arrowtown, The Gibbston Valley, Glenorchy and Paradise. You will admire LOTR locations such as The Ford of Bruinen, The Gladden Fields, Pillars of the Kings, Ithilien, Isengard, Beorn's House, Lothlorien, Amon Hen and more!

(1)

from $178

Special Offer

Private Lord of the Rings Full Day Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Mt Cook Private Day Trip from Queenstown Discover the very best of New Zealand with Ultimate New Zealand Tours on a fully personalized private journey. Visit the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, explore a scenic lavender farm, and experience the grandeur of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak and a place of deep Māori significance. See the mighty Tasman Glacier, unique alpine flora and fauna, and learn about the region’s rich mountaineering history. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers alike.

Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo the Ultimate combo from Queenstown

10 to 12 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

(5)

from $393

Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

This Epic Snow Day Tour offers a delightful alpine adventure for families, couples, and travelers wanting to enjoy the snow without skiing. Travel along the stunning Crown Range Road to Snow Farm, where you can engage in snowball fights, craft snow angels, or simply relax amid breathtaking mountain views. Warm up at the iconic Cardrona Hotel before exploring the picturesque town of Wānaka, famous for the That Wānaka Tree. The day wraps up with a visit to the historic Cromwell Heritage Precinct, making it a perfect mix of fun and history. - Enjoy nearly two hours of snow play at Snow Farm - Visit iconic locations like the Cardrona Hotel and That Wānaka Tree - Relax in small groups aboard comfortable minibuses - Full-day tour lasting approximately 8 hours, with pick-up from Queenstown

(1,470)

from $120

Epic Snow Day Tour from Queenstown

8 hoursFree Cancellation

(11)

from $136

Ready for a full-day adventure? Begin with a scenic shuttle from Queenstown to Arrowtown, where you’ll be fitted with a premium electric bike, helmet, & given a map and full safety briefing. Enjoy a self-guided cycle along the stunning Arrow & Kawarau River Trails toward Gibbston, crossing the Edgar Swing Bridge & the famous Kawarau Suspension Bridge — the world’s first bungy site. Enjoy winding trails past historic gold-mining cottages with breathtaking scenic views. At Gibbston Valley Winery, you swap your bike for the Wine Hopper Shuttle then relax as our friendly Qualified Wine Guide takes you to boutique wineries, cellar doors, & even a charming church or tavern. Enjoy wine tastings, divine platters or lunch options, & soak in the spectacular vineyard scenery. After a day of adventure, you'll return to Queenstown CBD around 6PM, relaxed, happy, & full of great memories! Pickup: Queenstown, Frankton, or Arrowtown Dropoff: Arrowtown, Ayrburn, Frankton, or Queenstown

ARROW RIVER TRAIL | Ride over suspension bridges and scenic trails, soaking up the golden sunlight and stunning colours on your Wine Hopper e-bike adventure.

Queenstown Electric Bike and Wine Tour

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Our Queenstown More Than A Wine Tour is not so much about swirling, sniffing and chatting about gooseberries, oak and tannins. It’s more an opportunity to soak up some extraordinary scenery and discover the amazing flavours of Central Otago. We love to showcase our wine and local cheese/food. If the Mountain is more for you, think champagne in the snow! Afterwards enjoy the Cardrona Distillery and Hotel for some mulled Wine and marshmallows. This tour is for anyone wanting some private time, romantic and special or thrill seeking time. Wine, whiskey, beer, gin, food, mountain biking, snowboarding/skiing, hiking. This is your day so the itinerary is set precisely to blow away your expectations. Others say "this was hands down one of the best days of our lives" "We cant wait to come back and do this again with friends" "Every moment was spectacular" "We loved every second" "We loved our guide, she looked after all our needs and requirements, she made the day so special" "We will be back"

(7)

from $114

Queenstown More Than A Wine Tour

6 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

Mt Cook Full-Day Small Group Tour from Queenstown

(1)

from $847

Per group

12 hoursFree Cancellation

(261)

from $175

Queenstown Wine Tour

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Queenstown: Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise (90 Minutes)

(25)

from $163

90-Minute Scenic Cruise on Lake Wakatipu – Explore Queenstown from the Water

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.8

(1,564)

from $48

Photography Tour from Queenstown to Glenorchy - 1/2 Day

5 hoursFree Cancellation

(37)

from $230

Macetown 4WD Adventure – Full Day Guided Tour from Queenstown

9 hoursFree Cancellation

With waterfalls cascading down mighty cliffs and some of New Zealand’s most impressive natural scenery, Milford Sound is one the South Island’s must-see destinations—but its remote location makes it hard to reach alone. On this tour, spin through the New Zealand countryside in comfort from central Queenstown with your guide. Admire panoramic views from your glass-roof, low-emissions coach, and cruise the calm waters.

(68)

from $403

Special Offer

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise from Queenstown: Panoramic Views

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise from Queenstown: Panoramic Views

12 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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Top Attractions in Queenstown

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What are people saying about Queenstown

Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Adventure

April_S, Aug 2026

Walter Peak Farm

My family and I live on a farm, but just seeing how they do things at Walter Peak was well worth it. From the cute Valais Sheep to the Highland cows, this was an absolute masterpiece experience. And if you don't like the sound of a farm, at least go for the views; they're incredible. After taking a trip across the lake from Queenstown aboard the TSS Earnslaw, complete with a cafe on board and incredible views of the snow-capped peaks surrounding the lake, we were greeted by the Lovely Georgia. She is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic, no matter the weather. Her special bond with Kimberly, the Herding Dog, was so special. The High-Tea was absolutely delicious. Every Staff Member was so lovely and friendly. Just be prepared for wet weather, but don't let that scare you off and enjoy everything it has to offer.

Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown

Richard_B, Aug 2026

A Must For Any Lord of the Rings Fan

Incredible experience! Our guide Dan was both extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the tour. He took us all over, providing insights, trivia knowledge, offering to help with pictures, and answering any questions we had about the country as a whole. The sights were great, truly a highlight of our trip. We are big LoTR fans and pride ourselves on our knowledge of the films, but we learned so much! Thank you Dan we had a great time! This experience is a must for any LoTR fans or anyone who is just excited to experience the natural beauty of NZ!

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise & Glass-Roof Coach Tour

Gloria_J, Aug 2026

Fabulous beginning to end

Our driver Hammi ( I think that's how you spell it ) he was polite, funny and genuine about making sure all his guests had a good time. The boat trip /cruise was fabulous. The driver/captain was again full of great information, considerate of his passengers.

Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park Small-Group Tour from Queenstown

Lori_A, Aug 2026

A magical day!!

We had an absolutely fantastic day!! Abbey was wonderful!! She shared interesting history about New Zealand along the way and took the time to connect with every single guest. It was very obvious that she loves what she does!! And Mt. Cook itself was simply magical. We did the Hooker Valley Track, and it was spectacular!! Also, Abbey made great stops to and from the mountain, which added to the trip. Thank you!!

Award Winning Premium Wine Tour Queenstown Tasting at 4 Wineries

Alisha_M, Aug 2026

One of our favourite days...

One of our favourite days of the trip! We had Caleb as our tour guide and he definitely brought the vibes, making the whole day so much fun and bringing the group altogether. The wineries included were beautiful and the service was great. Perfect amount of time at every winery. Would highly recommend to go with friends!

Mt Cook Full-Day Small Group Tour from Queenstown

Vikrant_K, Jul 2026

Amazing trip

The trip was amazing and contained a few highlights, including the hooker valley trek and a paid upgrade option to experience alpine snow landing. Everything was smoothly organised and run by the tour operators (altitude) and our guide for the day, Sinchan, was amazing, helpful and super knowledgeable.

Milford Sound Premium Coach & Cruise from Queenstown with Lunch

Joanne_F, Jun 2026

Highly Recommend.

What an amazing experience! This trip was absolutely worth every cent. Our guide was a standout — super knowledgeable, very respectful, and always making sure we had enough breaks and felt well-rested. The glass bus was a real highlight because everyone had a great view the whole way. The ferry ride was brilliant, and I loved the lunch options. The buffet was fantastic, but you can also choose a picnic box or bring your own food. Snacks and drinks are easy to grab on the boat too. The ride back was so comfortable that most of us drifted off to sleep. I’d recommend this tour to anyone heading to Milford Sound — it’s a must-do.

Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour from Queenstown

Lauren_C, May 2026

Loved every second of this tour!

Being able to visit Wanaka & Arrowtown on the same day was an amazing experience. Both places are breathtaking, even more in Autumn. We even got lucky with the weather. What I really enjoyed with this tour is that we were traveling with a small van to all the spots, it was very confortable and we also had some free time in some locations as well. Thank you to Remarkable Scenic Tours for the lovely day. I will remember it for a long time! If you are short on time, this is the tour for you.

Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Small Group Tour from Queenstown

Vicki_W, Apr 2026

This was a very long tour...

This was a very long tour but well worth it. There were stops along the way to stretch and grab a bite to eat. When we reached Mt cook Didn’t think we could do the hike up. Was very tiring and pretty high up there. But so glad we did the view of the glaciers was so spectacular. Took a lot of pictures. Hike down was much easier. Saw another path lake view wish I could have seen that one too. But it took us to long to climb up the mountain. When we got the bus they took us to where the trails was where we had our free time. A lot of different hikes to take. Which we ended up by a suspension bridge which was so pretty.After went to high county salmon. The salmon was so fresh and delicious had to hurry up and eat was only there for a short time. Then went to the orchard where we bought some goodies there . Can’t remember the drivers name. Did a really good job.We had done so many different tours but we would highly recommend this one if you want to venture out.

Queenstown: Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise (90 Minutes)

Jitendra_S, Mar 2026

Wonderful scenic tour of Queenstown!!

Great experience! Tour narrator (and Captain) Dan was insightful and kept the tour entertaining. Very scenic and informative tour! Refreshments available for purchase on the tour was a plus. Captain Dan took pictures of those wanting a scenic photo, as well as allowed a select few to steer the boat. Overall, a wonderful tour and experience!! Highly recommend!!

Milford Sound Day Tour with Scenic Cruise from Queenstown

Ruth_M, Mar 2026

Fantastic 10/10

Really great day out to Milford sound! Matt was a fantastic driver/tour guide, giving us great information throughout the journey. The boat around the fjord was great, some amazing views. Bus was comfy and well air conditioned - great music played too - thanks Matt! Defo worth the money!

Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Queenstown

Rachel_H, Jan 2026

We did the half day tour...

We did the half day tour & would recommend! Loved: - Both drivers (Kerry & George) - Mt Rosa (1 - small great vibe), Nockies Palette (2 - beautiful views & scenery), the Winery in Arrowtown (3 - so fun to dispense the wine ourselves and I think a really fun way to start), Gibson Valley (4 - could take or leave but I think it’d be better if we did a formal tour with them) - we fit in 4 stops! Felt like we made good use of our time. Tour ended approx 5-5:15pm. - drivers offered to call and make bookings for tasting when we got on the bus - bus very comfy, not super windy or bumpy Of Note: - you get a timetable & map immediately upon getting on the bus. You need to be a bit flexible with the wineries you go to since you don’t have access to it beforehand. There must be some reason they don’t give it out but 🤷🏼‍♀️ - the stops are approximately 50mins so it’s fast!! You would definitely need to spend two spots for lunch in order to have enough time to get your food & eat it. Since we were the halfway, we ate beforehand and had plenty of time to get a cheeseboard, bread, fries, etc during one stop Overall really fun & would do again!