Nestled by the shores of Lake Wakatipu and framed by the majestic Southern Alps, Queenstown is a playground for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Often referred to as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” this South Island Kiwi gem is famous for its stunning landscapes, extreme sports, and vibrant nightlife. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Queenstown, you’ve come to the right place.
Accommodation Options in Queenstown, NZ
Queenstown’s history began in earnest with the discovery of gold in 1862. This brought an influx of miners and prospectors, transforming it into a bustling frontier town almost overnight. Today, remnants of this gold rush era can be found throughout Queenstown, from restored cottages to historic gold mining tours. Tourists flock here all year round, boosting a robust tourism industry that offers hotels catering to all needs and budgets—from luxury lakeside resorts to budget-friendly establishments.
But Queenstown isn’t just for history buffs. Its Skyline Gondola offers panoramic views, or get your adrenaline pumping with bungee jumping at Kawarau Bridge. For a more relaxed day out, take a stroll through the Queenstown Gardens or hop on a steamboat cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw across Lake Wakatipu. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate Jack’s Point Golf Course with its scenic backdrop.
Queenstown has a unique atmosphere that blends adrenaline-fueled excitement with laid-back charm. Its downtown area pulses with energy—bars and restaurants buzz late into the night while street performers entertain passersby. Yet, just a short drive away, you can find peaceful hiking trails that offer solitude and breathtaking vistas.
Keep reading this guide to uncover more about the fantastic city and find the best area to stay in, Queenstown, and your ideal accommodation in this adventurous corner of New Zealand.
What’s the best area to stay in Queenstown?
The best area to stay in Queenstown is the CBD. Short for Central Business District, this central location offers convenience, accessibility, and a lively atmosphere. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, CBD provides exceptional accommodations, exciting nightlife, and countless shopping opportunities. Enjoy easy access to outdoor adventures, such as skiing and hiking trails. Delicious dining options are on every corner, satisfying diverse palates. Art galleries, museums, and theaters provide cultural enrichment for an all-around fantastic stay in the CBD while exploring everything Queenstown has to offer.
Find available accommodation in Queenstown’s CBD.
Best Hotels in Central Queenstown
- Best 5-star hotel: The Spire Hotel
- Best 4-star hotel: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
- Best 3-star hotel: Heartland Hotel Queenstown
- Best B&B: Queenstown House Bed & Breakfast and Apartments
- Best serviced apartments: James Apartments
- Best hostel: Adventure Q2 Hostel
Where to Stay in Queenstown for Sightseeing
As mentioned above, the CBD is the best location for visitors to Queenstown. That said, there are many more areas offering different atmospheres and sights. These are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Queenstown:
- Queenstown CBD is the town’s bustling central area, offering convenient access to shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Staying here ensures you’re always close to the action and within easy walking distance of many attractions and transport links.
- Fernhill offers breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. This tranquil suburb is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat while still being just a short drive away from Queenstown’s central amenities.
- Kelvin Heights is a serene peninsula known for its luxurious homes and golf course. It provides a relaxed atmosphere with scenic walking trails along the lakeshore, making it an ideal spot for leisurely outdoor activities.
- Frankton and the Queenstown Airport area is convenient, offering quick access to flights and essential services like shopping centers. It’s a practical choice for business travelers or those preferring proximity to transportation hubs.
- Queenstown Hill features fantastic hiking trails and panoramic views. Ideal for those who appreciate nature, it offers a serene environment close to the busy town center.
Best Areas to Stay in Queenstown, New Zealand
1. Queenstown CBD (City Center)
The best area to stay in Queenstown, NZ
Queenstown CBD, the city’s epicenter, offers activities, dining options and nightlife.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Queenstown:
- Central location
- Close to Lake Wakatipu
- Stunning mountain views
- Proximity to restaurants
- Vibrant nightlife
- Scenic Queenstown Gardens
- Adventure sports hub
Queenstown CBD, situated on the scenic shores of Lake Wakatipu and framed by the Southern Alps, provides a prime location for travelers. This central business district is widely recognized for its vibrant nightlife, featuring bustling bars, especially during high tourist seasons.
The area is surrounded by spectacular mountain landscapes and the expansive Lake Wakatipu, with many city spots offering beautiful views of these natural features.
Within the CBD, shoppers can find a range of stores, particularly those selling high-quality local products such as knitwear, sheepskin and possum items, greenstone and bone carvings, and fine New Zealand wines.
Queenstown is an outdoor activity hub, catering extensively to hikers, mountain bikers, skiers, snowboarders, and those embarking on expeditions to nearby national parks. Equipment rental shops are plentiful in this area.
Dining in Queenstown offers a variety of options from takeaways to upscale establishments. High-end restaurants in the CBD are known for their freshly sourced seafood like mussels and oysters, game meats, and farmed venison, lamb, and veal.
Thanks to its strategic position, the CBD is an excellent base for exploring the Otago region further. It is especially convenient for those relying on public transportation or hiring local tours. Its central station provides regular connections around Queenstown and adjacent regions through extensive bus and coach services.
Hotels in Queenstown CBD tend to cost more than those in other parts of the city but provide significant advantages in terms of location and access to amenities. These accommodations range from budget-friendly options to luxurious five-star hotels.
Best Hotels in Queenstown CBD
The Spire Hotel
The Spire Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Queenstown. Just a 2-minute walk from the shores of Lake Wakatipu, it offers rooms with free WiFi, a balcony, and a gas fireplace.
Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Novotel Queenstown Lakeside is just a 1-minute walk from many shops, restaurants, nightlife, and activities.
Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Heartland Hotel Queenstown is in central Queenstown, a short walk from town. It offers panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains. Free parking is available, subject to availability, and guests enjoy complimentary WiFi.
St James Apartments
St James Apartments feature a kitchenette or kitchen with a dishwasher and microwave. The tour desk can book scenic helicopter flights, kayaking, and wine tours.
Adventure Q2 Hostel
Adventure Q2 Hostel is located in Queenstown, an 8-minute walk from Skyline Gondola. It features barbecue facilities, a shared kitchen, a lounge, and free Wi-Fi.
2. Fern Hill
Great Views and Apartments in Queenstown
Fernhill is a peaceful residential area that offers stunning lake and mountain views. It is perfect for travelers seeking tranquility.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Queenstown:
- Stunning panoramic lake views
- Proximity to downtown Queenstown
- Peaceful and quiet surroundings
- Luxurious accommodations
- Easy access to hiking trails
Fern Hill, or Fernhill, is a residential suburb on the western side of Queenstown. The area is elevated, providing panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding Remarkables mountain range. Known for its serene and scenic environment, Fern Hill offers a peaceful retreat just a short distance from downtown Queenstown.
Among the attractions near Fern Hill is the Skyline Gondola, which provides access to Bob’s Peak. The top offers striking vistas, luge tracks, and walking trails. For those interested in exploring local flora and fauna, the nearby Ben Lomond Track presents an excellent hiking opportunity with breathtaking alpine scenery.
Fern Hill’s proximity to central Queenstown means that cultural activities and nightlife are easily accessible. Queenstown CBD is a hub for dining and entertainment venues featuring international cuisine and traditional New Zealand fare.
Public transport, such as bus line number 1, connects Fern Hill to central Queenstown. Additionally, taxis and rideshare services are readily available.
The accommodation options in Fern Hill range from luxury hotels to serviced apartments catering primarily to families and upscale travelers.
Best Hotels in Fern Hill, Queenstown
Hidden Lodge Queenstown
Located in Queenstown, 2.5 miles from Skyline Gondola and Luge, Hidden Lodge Queenstown provides accommodations with free WiFi, a garden with a terrace, mountain views, and access to a fitness room and a sauna.
Mercure Queenstown Resort
The Mercure Queenstown Resort is located on a vantage point overlooking the Remarkables Mountains and Lake Wakatipu. It features a seasonal outdoor pool, spa pools, a gym, and a sauna.
Alpine Retreat
Alpine Retreat provides a garden and accommodations in Queenstown. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking, and free Wifi. The accommodation offers full-day security and private check-in and check-out for guests.
Ora Retreat
Located in Queenstown, Ora Retreat provides accommodations with free WiFi and a seating area.
Distinctive Alpine Meadows
Distinctive Alpine Meadows provides accommodations with access to a hot tub. With lake views, this accommodation features a balcony. The apartment offers rooms with air conditioning, free private parking, and free Wifi.
3. Kelvin Heights
Best area for a luxury holiday in Queenstown
Kelvin Heights is an upscale neighborhood known for its luxury homes and pristine golf courses.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Queenstown:
- Spectacular lake views
- Close to Queenstown Golf Club
- Beach access at Sunshine Bay
- Beautiful walking trails
- Quiet, residential atmosphere
- Easy access to water sports
Kelvin Heights is a scenic suburb located on the southern shore of Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown. Known for its picturesque views, Kelvin Heights offers visitors unparalleled vistas of the Remarkables mountain range and easy access to outdoor activities.
Kelvin Heights developed over the years into a sought-after residential area characterized by its tranquil environment and proximity to natural attractions.
One of the key attractions in Kelvin Heights is the Queenstown Golf Club, situated on the Kelvin Peninsula. This prestigious golf course is renowned for its challenging layout and stunning lakefront setting. Additionally, numerous walking and cycling trails around the peninsula, such as the Kelvin Peninsula Trail, offer beautiful lakeside paths ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Kelvin Heights has a calm atmosphere primarily due to its suburban nature, making it an ideal location for those looking to escape the more bustling areas of Queenstown. Its close-knit community vibe serves as an inviting aspect for longer stays.
Transport-wise, Kelvin Heights is accessible by road and water. Regular water taxis operate across Lake Wakatipu, linking it to Queenstown’s town center. This makes commuting both practical and scenic. The drive from Kelvin Heights to central Queenstown typically takes about 15-20 minutes by car.
Kelvin Heights’ accommodation options include upscale hotels and private holiday homes that capitalize on the stunning natural scenery.
Best Hotels in Kelvin Heights, Queenstown
Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa
Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa offers 5-star amenities, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a day spa. The elegant rooms and suites feature gas fireplaces.
DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown
With majestic mountains and Lake Wakatipu as a backdrop, DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown offers luxurious self-catering rooms with flat-screen cable TV and a DVD player.
Queenstown Village Apartments
Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown Village Apartments is in Kawarau Village, which features restaurants, bars, and ski shops. Guests can enjoy unlimited free Wi-Fi.
4. Queenstown Hill
A quiet area close to central Queenstown
An excellent location for hikers and nature lovers, Queenstown Hill boasts incredible panoramic views of the town and lake.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Queenstown:
- Stunning panoramic views
- Proximity to Queenstown CBD
- Queenstown Hill Time Walk hiking trail
- Tranquil and peaceful environment
- Luxurious accommodation options
Queenstown Hill offers scenic beauty northeast of the main town center. This area is famed for its panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding Southern Alps.
The hill itself is part of local history, with indigenous Maori groups traditionally using the area’s pathways as they traveled between settlements. The name “Queenstown Hill” was assigned during the mid-19th-century gold rush era when European settlers established the town below.
The Queenstown Hill Time Walk is a notable attraction here. This trail extends for about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) and climbs approximately 500 meters (1640 ft). Along the path, informational plaques detail significant events in Queenstown’s development. Upon reaching the summit, known locally as Te Tapu-nui, you are rewarded with vistas over the Remarkables mountain range and Cecil Peak.
Accommodation options on Queenstown Hill range from luxury retreats offering extensive amenities to more basic lodgings.
Reaching Queenstown Hill from downtown is straightforward; it’s about a five-minute drive or a half-hour walk if starting from central Queenstown. Public transport includes local bus routes that navigate up Melbourne Street and Frankton Road.
Best Hotels on Queenstown Hill
Karamata
Karamata is located in Queenstown. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking, and free Wifi. The accommodation features an elevator and a concierge service for guests.
Turner Heights Townhouses
Just a 2-minute walk from the heart of Queenstown, these apartments include free WiFI, satellite TV and cooking facilities.
Cranbury Court Apartments
Cranbury Court Apartments is located a 5-minute walk from the center of Queenstown. Every apartment offers alpine views, free WiFi, and free parking. The gondola is a short walk away.
5. Frankton & Queenstown Airport
Convenient for long stopovers and short trips
Frankton and the Queenstown Airport area are convenient bases for short trips or early flights.
Frankton & Queenstown Airport are situated approximately 8 kilometers northeast of Queenstown, New Zealand, and serve as a significant entry point to the region. The area is not only a transportation hub but also a suburban community with residential and commercial facilities.
Queenstown Airport opened in 1935 and has grown substantially to accommodate the increasing number of travelers visiting this scenic part of New Zealand. It may be small compared to major international airports, but it is well-equipped with modern amenities, and its runway offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Wakatipu during takeoff and landing.
Frankton itself serves as a functional gateway to the larger Queenstown area. Its proximity to the airport makes it convenient for those who prefer to stay close to their point of arrival or departure. The commercial center in Frankton caters well to everyday needs, containing retail outlets, supermarkets, and dining establishments.
One noteworthy attraction in Frankton is the Remarkables Park Town Centre, which offers shopping opportunities complementing those found in central Queenstown. Another point of interest is the Lakes District Museum located in nearby Arrowtown, about a 20-minute drive away. This museum provides a deeper understanding of the area’s gold mining history.
Queenstown itself needs no introduction as a premiere adventure tourism destination with activities such as bungee jumping from the Kawarau Bridge, jet boating on the Shotover River, and skiing in winter at nearby resorts like Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.
Public transportation options are available for moving between Frankton, Queenstown Airport, and central Queenstown. Local buses operated by Orbus connect these points frequently throughout the day. Additionally, taxi services and rental car facilities are readily accessible for more personalized travel needs.
Hotel accommodations in Frankton range from budget-friendly motels to more luxurious resorts offering extensive amenities. This allows for flexibility whether visiting for leisure or business purposes.
In summary, Frankton & Queenstown Airport area provides convenience and functionality with essential services and connectivity for travelers keen to explore the broader attractions available within the Queenstown Lakes District.
Best Hotels near Queenstown Airport
Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park
Located in Queenstown, Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park provides accommodations with a fitness center, private parking, a shared lounge and a restaurant.
Where to Look for Accommodation in Queenstown: A Personal Take
During my recent visit to Queenstown, I found that staying in the CBD is incredibly convenient if you want to be within walking distance of key attractions. I stayed at the Heartland Hotel Queenstown, a three-star establishment that provided a decent balance of cost and comfort. The rooms were clean and equipped with basic amenities. It is located on Stanley Street, which makes it easy to explore the nearby areas.
Queenstown’s central area has plenty to offer, including the pristine Lake Wakatipu, just a short walk away from many accommodations. This proximity makes it effortless to enjoy the lakeside views and activities without much hassle. Additionally, being in the CBD means you’re close to many cafes, shops, and entertainment options. Thus, choosing accommodation in this central location can enhance your Queenstown experience by providing easy access to its many attractions.
Staying in Queenstown: Useful Information for Your Visit
Queenstown is located in the southern lakes region of the South Island of New Zealand. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and the crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is famous for its spectacular scenery, four seasons, and world-class activities and attractions.
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Queenstown for kayaking, bungee jumping, jet boating, rafting, hiking, and skiing. For more tranquil adventures, cruises through nearby Milford Sound—a part of the World Heritage area of Fiordland National Park—or sampling Pinot Noir from one of over seventy wineries in the region are excellent options.
While Queenstown is often dubbed the Kiwi capital of extreme activities, there is more to this beautiful town than just bungy jumping and speedboats. The city is situated on the edge of impressive mountain ranges that offer hikes for all levels of experience.
In winter, Coronet Peak and The Remarkables range provide some of the best skiing spots in the country. In downtown Queenstown, a plethora of nightlife and gastronomic options await visitors.
The surrounding region is characterized by rugged mountains, deep canyons, wild waterfall rivers, crystal-clear lakes, rainforests, meadows, and fresh mountain air—making it one of New Zealand’s most wondrous natural areas.
Queenstown is 483 km from Christchurch—a 5-and-a-half-hour drive or a 50-minute flight away.
The climate in Queenstown varies with the season. Winter (June to August) temperatures range from -2°C to 8°C (28°F to 46°F), perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Summer (December to February) sees temperatures between 10°C and 22°C (50°F and 72°F), ideal for outdoor activities. Spring and fall bring milder weather with highs around 15°C (59°F).
A must-see attraction is the Skyline Gondola, which offers panoramic views of the town and Lake Wakatipu. Also worth visiting are the Shotover Jet for an adrenaline-pumping river ride, Milford Sound for breathtaking fjord scenery, and The Remarkables for excellent skiing.
For accommodation, consider staying near Lake Wakatipu for stunning views. Affordable options can be found in Frankton or Fernhill, just a short drive or bus ride into town.
Travelers on a budget should look at hostels or holiday parks for economical stays. Booking in advance can help secure better rates and ensure availability.
Remember to check if your chosen accommodation offers heating for winter stays or cooling options for warmer months.
