Hotels in Queenstown

Queenstown: Where Majestic Mountains Embrace Tranquil Waters

Nestled in the heart of Otago, Queenstown, New Zealand, is a breathtaking playground where the stunning shores of Lake Wakatipu meet the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps. Known for its thrilling outdoor adventures, from skiing at Coronet Peak to bungee jumping over deep gorges, Queenstown offers an exhilarating escape for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. With a vibrant atmosphere, charming holiday homes, and a diverse range of accommodations, it’s perfect for romantic getaways or family vacations. Immerse yourself in this enchanting destination and discover a blend of adventure and serenity that will leave you spellbound. For the best hotel rates in Queenstown and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Queenstown

Some of the best places to stay in Queenstown are Queenstown City Centre, Frankton and Fernhill. Queenstown, New Zealand, offers a vibrant mix of locations for travelers. The Queenstown City Centre is bustling with shops and restaurants, making it perfect for first-time visitors. Frankton provides a quieter atmosphere with convenient access to the airport, while Fernhill offers stunning views and a more relaxed vibe. Accommodation ranges from luxury hotels to cozy lodges in all areas, ensuring options for every budget and preference, including suites and family-friendly options. Enjoy your adventure in this stunning destination! Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Queenstown:

1. Queenstown City CentreOpens in a new window: Queenstown City Centre is a vibrant hub for adventure seekers and families alike, offering stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. With attractions like Skyline Queenstown for spectacular views and Queenstown Gardens for a peaceful retreat, it’s a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. Notable hotels include Hulbert HouseOpens in a new window, a boutique lodge offering business services and child-friendly amenities, and Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown - MGalleryOpens in a new window, which provides exceptional skiing experiences along with business facilities. For a unique stay, consider Eichardt's Private HotelOpens in a new window, featuring direct beach access and nearby hot springs.
2. FranktonOpens in a new window: Frankton is an outdoor paradise, located near the Remarkables Ski Area and Onsen Hot Pools, ideal for skiing and wellness enthusiasts. Its proximity to the city center makes it convenient for travelers. Stoneridge EstateOpens in a new window is a great pick for adventure lovers, offering various recreational activities and business amenities. Another option is Lanah ResidenceOpens in a new window, which specializes in skiing and adventure sports, while Hilton Queenstown Resort & SpaOpens in a new window combines luxury with a full spa experience for ultimate relaxation.
3. FernhillOpens in a new window: Fernhill is known for its breathtaking outdoor scenery, making it a romantic getaway destination. With attractions like Skyline Queenstown and Onsen Hot Pools nearby, it’s perfect for couples and families. Azur Luxury LodgeOpens in a new window offers a romantic ambiance with unique decor and spa services, ideal for couples. Rosewood MatakauriOpens in a new window is a family-friendly option that provides business amenities and beach access, while Hidden Lodge QueenstownOpens in a new window features direct beach access and various adventure sports activities.

Things to do in Queenstown for first time

Queenstown is a stunning destination perfect for a three-day getaway, where visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes of mountains, lakes, and lush forests. Enjoy a range of activities like hiking, skiing, and boating, making it an ideal spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Queenstown:

• Day 1: Start your Queenstown adventure at the picturesque Queenstown Beach, where you can take in stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore. After soaking in the scenery, hop on the historic Kingston Flyer, a vintage steam train that offers a scenic ride along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Finally, venture into the breathtaking Skippers Canyon, known for its dramatic landscapes and rich gold mining history. Be sure to keep your camera ready as you navigate through its winding roads and stunning viewpoints.
• Day 2: Begin your day at the serene Moke Lake, a perfect spot for a peaceful morning surrounded by mountains and wildlife. After enjoying the tranquility, head to Off The Wall Gallery, where you can admire unique local art and perhaps find a perfect souvenir. Conclude your day back at Skippers Canyon, where you can delve deeper into its rugged beauty and learn more about its fascinating history.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Frankton Beach, where you can relax by the water and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains. Next, stop by St Patrick's Catholic Church & Mary MacKillop's Cottage, a charming historical site that offers insight into the local heritage. Finally, spend some time at Lake Wakatipu, taking a scenic walk along its shores and enjoying the stunning vistas as the sun sets, wrapping up your Queenstown experience on a high note.

5 tips to find a great Queenstown hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Queenstown is during April, May, and October, when hotel rates are generally lower. For international travelers, it's wise to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure more affordable fares. To truly experience the great value for money that Queenstown offers, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days, allowing ample time to explore its stunning lakes and majestic mountains.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for exciting last-minute deals to Queenstown, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find great discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances of snagging the latest prices, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize any opportunities to score amazing rates on Queenstown accommodations.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Queenstown.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Queenstown is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like buses, cars, or bicycles to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Queenstown and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in Queenstown

Here are a few popular dishes in Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand:

• Fergburger: This iconic burger joint in Queenstown is famous for its gourmet burgers, crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Each burger is made to order, allowing for customization that suits individual tastes. The lively atmosphere and the line of eager customers outside are part of the experience, showcasing the local love for this culinary staple. Don't miss trying the 'Fergburger' with its mouthwatering toppings and perfectly grilled patties!
• Fish and Chips: A quintessential Kiwi dish, fish and chips in Queenstown are often enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Typically made with fresh catch from the surrounding lakes, this dish is deep-fried to golden perfection and served with a side of crispy chips. It's commonly eaten by the lakefront, embodying a casual dining experience that reflects the region's coastal heritage and social vibe.

Best time to go to Queenstown

Queenstown experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 34.9°F (1.6°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 56.7°F (13.7°C). May is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Queenstown, January, July, and December are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, September, and October are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

Queenstown Travel Information