A hotspot for thrill-seekers and adventurers, Queenstown is one of the South Island’s most popular destinations. Set around scenic Lake Wakatipu, the town overlooks the Remarkables — home to superb ski slopes — and is within easy reach of the Fjordland National Park’s many marvellous attractions. If you’re in Queenstown for the buzzy café and nightlife scene or a busy family holiday, look to stay in a cosy B&B, contemporary apartment or luxurious, centrally located hotel. For a romantic and restful escape, our list of the best places to stay in Queenstown promises tranquil lakeside lodges and wine country retreats, too!

Close to the shores of Lake Wakatipu, downtown Queenstown is a hive of activity, with shops, eateries and bars aplenty, as well as artists’ studios and frequent musical or foodie events. Out on the lake, try fishing, sailing and kayaking or take a sunset trip on a modern yacht or heritage steamboat. Cyclists and hikers will find hundreds of kilometres of trails criss-crossing the mountain foothills, whilst keen riders can canter through landscapes immortalised in the Lord of the Rings saga, much of which was filmed in the area. Adrenaline junkies can take things up a notch with a sky dive, bungee jump or helicopter ride.

During the winter months, the Coronet Peak and Remarkables Ski Areas are brilliant for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, and many hotels have crackling fireplaces, sumptuous spas and saunas for après-ski unwinding. This is a particularly popular time to visit — as is the autumn harvest season at Otago’s world-class vineyards, and the annual NZ Open, when golfers congregate in Queenstown. Book your trip well in advance, as the best places to stay in Queenstown are likely to fill up fast!

The Best Places to Stay in Queenstown

For a Boutique Bolthole

• Eichardt's Private Hotel is a chic boutique hotel housed in a heritage property. Highlights include the beautiful lake-facing deck with hot tub, the Vault Spa — housed in a historic gold vault — and sumptuous rooms and suites with roaring fireplaces and big cosy beds. Very romantic and central.
• The Central Private Hotel has just 14 lavish suites, decorated in jewel-like pink, blue and green tones. The trendy Central Bar is a buzzy hub, with craft cocktails, evening canapés, an espresso station and an old-school selection of sweets. For cool couples or friends.
• The Spire Hotel offers 10 smart and spacious suites clad in black and white with pops of red. For sophisticated travellers in search of a lively evening scene, the hotel has a well-stocked bar and an atmospheric restaurant specialising in gourmet fare. Within walking distance of other nightlife spots, this is a grown-up boutique choice.
• Hulbert House is idea for history buffs eager to experience life in an elegant Victorian mansion. Guest rooms offer views of Lake Wakatipu or Skyline Hill, breakfasts are generous, and your hosts will point you in the right direction for golf, kayaking and more. A charming luxury B&B.
• Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is an ultra-modern property with crisp, clean interiors and views of Queenstown from a hillside setting. Events for up to 40 guests can be arranged, along with gourmet catering. A chic, 19-room spot for business or pleasure.

For City Style

• St Moritz Hotel has 134 rooms with cosy throws, studded leather headboards and bold wallpapers. Shared spaces have a classic alpine feel, inviting guests to unwind after days of skiing, cycling or hiking. Enjoy bespoke cocktails at the hotel's Lombardi Bar. Very smart.
• Sofitel Queenstown is an opulent city hotel with 82 rooms and suites featuring velvet accents and big marble bathrooms. Sample tapas at the hotel's stylish 1789 Wine & Jazz Lounge after a rejuvenating spa treatment. A luxurious choice.
• The Rees Hotel offers 155 spacious, contemporary rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and indulgent bathrooms. Grand lake-facing views, fine dining and restorative wellness therapies further add to the appeal. A smart city hotel for couples, friends or families.
• QT Queenstown has a playful feel, with bright, bold interiors, welcoming shared spaces and beautiful views. Kick back in the sauna and plunge pool, sample international fusion cuisine with friends and family or taste cocktails at the hip bar. A brilliant city choice.

For a Romantic Escape

• Azur Lodge is made up of nine villa-suites, with striking views across Lake Wakatipu to The Remarkables beyond. Tranquil and secluded, villas have floor-to-ceiling windows and appealing living and dining areas. Foodies will love the big breakfasts, scrumptious afternoon teas and canapés eaten around the fire. For honeymooners or quiet couples.
• Matakauri Lodge promises a luxurious stay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The 16 rooms, suites and villas have private balconies or decks, there's a heated infinity pool, a gym and a rejuvenating spa. A delightful hideaway.
• Stoneridge Estate is a nine-room boutique hotel set amongst vineyards. Choose a traditional or more contemporary suite, and don't miss the chef's 5-course degustation menus paired with local wines. The Queenstown Wine Trail is fabulous, as is the 7km loop around Lake Hayes for morning jogs or cycles. Very romantic.
• Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa is one for wine lovers. Stylish villas sit within a Pinot noir vineyard, and offer spectacular views, indulgent bathrooms and open-plan living spaces. With a superb spa, delectable private dining experiences and a fantastic cellar door onsite, this is a real romantic gem.

For Families or Groups

• Villa Del Lago promises 16 fully serviced suites and apartments, all with kitchens, dining rooms and living rooms, as well as outdoor patios or balconies with private gas fires. Family-friendly, ideal for fishing and close to the Frankton trail. Also fun for longer winter or summer holidays as a group or family.
• Queenstown House offers a collection of well-priced modern apartments facing Lake Wakatipu. With self-catering facilities and multiple bedrooms, these are great for more affordable family or group trips.
• Hidden Lodge is a smart B&B with just four inviting suites, an outdoor wood-fired hot tub, terrace and superb views. Book the whole place for a fun group trip, feast on big breakfasts and explore Queenstown with the owners' recommendations. Can feel very private.

For Great Value

• Melbourne Lodge offers 34 rooms, suites and apartments priced to suit a range of budgets. They’re all simply styled and have big windows and fantastic views. Breakfasts are available, but guests can also self-cater. An affordable choice in central Queenstown.
• Sherwood is a simple, eco-friendly choice outside Queenstown. Expect excellent organic food, spacious rooms with spectacular views, and very attractive rates. Ideal for relaxing after days on the slopes, the property has a table tennis table, bike storage, a communal firepit and some bunk rooms.
• Queenstown Country Lodge has five comfortable contemporary rooms, a hot tub and lovely views. Breakfasts are served on the terrace, the vibe is intimate and relaxed, and prices are very reasonable given the chic interiors and wonderful team.
• The Canyons is a small rustic B&B overlooking Shotover Canyon. Pick this place for a quiet escape as a couple, or book the whole house — which sleeps up to eight — for a family or group trip. Affordable, laid-back and inviting as a base for nature enthusiasts.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Queenstown Airport, just 15 minutes from town. Alternatively, there are regular buses to Queenstown from Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill, Te Anau, Wanaka and the West Coast.
• New Zealand is famously wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the winter months (May to August) for skiing and snowboarding in 4 ski areas, or come in the summer for golf, cycling, horse riding, rafting and more. You'll find that food festivals and wine tastings are best in the autumn — also a beautiful season, with golden leaves and crisp evenings for cosying up by the fire.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay In Te Anau.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the South Island.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

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