What Are The Best Hotels in Queenstown, New Zealand For Travel and Tourism?

Planning a trip to Queenstown, New Zealand? SIXT.VN understands that finding the perfect accommodation is crucial for an unforgettable experience. This guide dives into the best hotels Queenstown has to offer, ensuring a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. From opulent resorts to thrilling activities, we’ve got you covered for an exceptional Queenstown getaway.

1. Why Choose Queenstown for Your New Zealand Adventure?

Queenstown, New Zealand, is a world-renowned destination, celebrated for its striking landscapes, snow-covered mountains, and a plethora of thrilling activities that entice tourists globally. According to the New Zealand tourism board, Queenstown attracts over 3 million visitors annually, making it a hub for adventure and luxury tourism. The city provides a secure and easily navigable environment, supported by diverse accommodation options suitable for various budgets.

1.1. A Year-Round Destination

Queenstown shines in every season. While it’s celebrated as New Zealand’s premier ski destination, open from June to October with access to esteemed ski fields like Cardrona, Coronet Peak, and The Remarkables, summer in Queenstown offers equally compelling attractions. The warm months are perfect for swimming in Lake Wakatipu and exploring the Queenstown Gardens.

According to Destination Queenstown’s chief executive Mat Woods, Spring and Summer present ideal opportunities to fully appreciate the region. Travelers have a broad range of activities, including multi-day hikes, short walks, exploring over 130 kilometers of trails, or enjoying the region’s acclaimed wineries and breweries.

1.2. Wine and Dine in Style

The local wine industry adds another layer of allure to Queenstown. The Central Otago region features vineyards set against dramatic landscapes, reminiscent of an alpine Tuscany. Amisfield in Lake Hayes is a favorite for relaxed outdoor lunches and its renowned Pinot Noir. The culinary scene in central Queenstown caters to every taste, from après-ski dining to upscale restaurants.

1.3. Queenstown’s Top Highlights

Here’s a quick look at what makes Queenstown a must-visit destination:

2. What are the Best Hotels and Resorts in Queenstown?

For those seeking exceptional accommodation, Queenstown’s hotels and resorts offer unparalleled luxury and comfort. Here are some top recommendations:

2.1. Rosewood Matakauri

Rosewood Matakauri, recently added to Rosewood’s collection, is a luxurious lakeside retreat located just 10 minutes from Queenstown’s city center. This intimate lodge features 13 rooms with stunning views of The Remarkables, providing a peaceful and serene escape.

2.2. Eichardt’s Private Hotel

Eichardt’s Private Hotel is located in the heart of Queenstown, directly on Lake Wakatipu. Housed in a historic building that exudes grandeur, its interiors feature modern opulence, including cozy fireplaces, luxurious furnishings, and marble bathrooms with heated flooring.

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-qt-queenstown-QUEENSTOWNNZ0923-f3e76542841446e498a2ddf4eebe3a71.jpg)

2.3. QT Queenstown

QT Queenstown brings a playful brand of luxury to New Zealand with its location offering panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables. Rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as Dyson Airwraps, cocktail-making stations, and Kevin Murphy bath products.

2.4. The Carlin

The Carlin redefines luxury hospitality in the South Pacific. This hotel offers access to a private jet and airport transfers via Bentley, Porsche, or Maserati. Guests can enjoy fine dining at Oro, where owner Kevin Carlin, a concert pianist, often performs.

2.5. Blanket Bay

Blanket Bay, located a 40-minute drive from Queenstown, is an impressive luxury lodge offering a secluded retreat. Situated in Glenorchy on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, it provides views of the Humboldt Mountains and features rooms in the main lodge, stand-alone chalets, and villas.

3. What Exciting Activities Can You Enjoy in Queenstown?

Queenstown is a hub of adventure and offers many activities to suit all interests.

3.1. Helicopter Tours

Taking a helicopter tour is a magical experience, offering panoramic views of glaciers and rainforests. Over The Top provides tours from a state-of-the-art Eurocopter, offering views of the Southern Alps and Milford Sound.

According to Hoss Vetry, vice president of operations for APAC at Rosewood, a helicopter ride to the west coast and into Fiordland is essential.

3.2. Shotover Jet

The Shotover Jet offers an adrenaline rush as you navigate through narrow gorges and canyons at 50 mph, with 360-degree spins along the way.

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-shot-over-jet-QUEENSTOWNNZ0923-05c1a75325b6478ca130d763839bcf31.jpg)

3.3. Great Walks

Hiking enthusiasts can explore three of New Zealand’s Great Walks accessible from Queenstown: Routeburn Track, Kepler Track, and Milford Track. Bookings are required through the Department of Conservation.

3.4. Skiing

Queenstown is a popular ski destination from June through October. Skiers and snowboarders can visit Cardrona, Treble Cone, Coronet Peak, or The Remarkables. For heli-skiing, Southern Lakes Heliski provides access to 800 runs across seven mountain ranges.

3.5. Wine Tasting

Allocate a day to explore Queenstown’s wineries. Queenstown Wine Trail offers group and private tours, and must-visit wineries include Amisfield, Kinross, Gibbston Valley, and Rippon in Wanaka.

4. What Are The Best Shopping Destinations in Queenstown?

Queenstown offers a variety of shopping experiences, from luxury brands to local boutiques.

4.1. O’Connells

O’Connells features a DFS department store with international brands like Kenzo, Tom Ford, and Gucci Beauty, as well as local designers. Eatspace, located on the lower level, offers a variety of international cuisines.

4.2. Angel Divine

Angel Divine offers a curated collection of women’s designer fashion, shoes, and accessories, including Frame denim, Ulla Johnson dresses, and footwear from New Zealand designers like Kathryn Wilson.

4.3. Remarkable Sweet Shop

The Remarkable Sweet Shop offers candies and homemade fudge, famous for its crème brûlée fudge and Kiwi flavors like rocky road and white chocolate raspberry ripple.

4.4. Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton’s Queenstown boutique showcases design that complements the environment, offering bags, accessories, and leather goods.

4.5. Seletti Concept Store

Seletti is a chic concept store with European fashion brands, stylish furniture, and entertaining goods, with locations in Queenstown and Arrowtown.

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-great-walk-QUEENSTOWNNZ0923-3cbd541a42fc460f9eee924a8f5fbc8c.jpg)

5. What Are The Best Nightlife Spots in Queenstown?

Queenstown’s nightlife offers a range of options, from cozy bars to lively venues.

5.1. Bardeaux

Bardeaux is a cozy bar known for its cocktails, local wines, and whiskeys. It features a fireplace, comfortable seating, and great music.

5.2. Barmuda

Barmuda offers local wine, beer, and cocktails in an indoor or courtyard setting, with DJs playing into the night.

5.3. Eichardt’s Bar

Eichardt’s Bar serves world-class cocktails and an excellent tapas menu in a cozy setting with a fireplace.

6. Where Can You Find The Best Restaurants in Queenstown?

Queenstown’s dining scene is diverse, offering everything from fine dining to casual eateries.

6.1. Botswana Butchery

Botswana Butchery offers a warm ambiance and decadent menu with traditional New Zealand cuisine, including seafood and meat dishes.

6.2. Rata

Rata, launched by Michelin-star chef Josh Emett, offers fine dining with a tasting menu featuring locally sourced specialties like crayfish croustade and wagyu sirloin.

6.3. Fergburger

Fergburger serves delicious burgers with fresh, local ingredients. The menu includes classic beef burgers, chicken, vegetarian, pork, fish, and venison options.

6.4. Jervois Steak House

Jervois Steak House, located within the Sofitel Queenstown, serves signature steaks, seafood, and a six-course degustation menu.

6.5. Madam Woo

Madam Woo offers Malaysian-meets-Asian-fusion cuisine and aromatic cocktails, with dishes like beef rendang and nasi lemak.

7. What Is The Best Time to Visit Queenstown?

Queenstown is a year-round destination, each season offering unique experiences.

Vetry explains that November to March is busiest for international travelers, while April to May offers calm weather, fewer crowds, and fall foliage in Arrowtown. September to October is beautiful with crisp air and snow on the mountains, and July through September offers the best skiing conditions.

In June, the area celebrates Matariki, the Maori new year, with the Winter Lights Festival and Luma light festival.

8. How Can You Get To Queenstown?

The best way to get to Queenstown is to fly into Queenstown Airport. Air New Zealand offers multiple flights from domestic cities, and there are direct routes from Sydney on Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar. From the airport, taxis and rental cars are available.

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-skiing-QUEENSTOWNNZ0923-481e0081a9bc4079ae67fddc269f2515.jpg)

9. What Other Areas Should You Visit Near Queenstown?

Explore the surrounding areas for a fuller experience of the region.

9.1. Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a historic gold mining town with boutiques, eateries, and art galleries. It’s a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, offering walking trails and the Blue Door bar.

Vetry advises travelers who like to hike to explore the walking trails from Arrowtown Village up into the beautiful hills.

9.2. Glenorchy

Glenorchy is an outdoor paradise for walkers, photographers, and adventurers. Explore it by TSS Earnslaw, a historic boat offering tours and a barbecue dinner at Walter Peak.

According to Gabriella Diaz, Imperium Collection’s operations manager, walkers, photographers, and adventurers have found themselves captivated by this amazing wilderness and a quieter way of life in Glenorchy.

9.3. Gibbston

Gibbston offers cycling through the wine region, home to the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, the site of the world’s first commercial bungee jump.

Vetry suggests that a cycle ride through Gibbston Valley wine region is the perfect way to taste the area’s world-class wines.

10. How Can You Get Around Queenstown?

Getting around Queenstown is easy with various transport options available.

Woods advises that once you’ve arrived in Queenstown, you don’t need independent transport as most of the activity operators provide transfers as part of their experiences. Diaz agrees, adding that everything is within walking distance, and transport options are plenty.

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-arrowtown-QUEENSTOWNNZ0824-014b4ea357e14a33a075579b147b262d.jpg)

10.1. Rental Cars

Rental cars are available at Queenstown Airport from companies like Sixt, Avis, Europcar, and Hertz.

10.2. Bus

Buses are clean, reliable, and offer connections near and far. Timetables are viewable here.

10.3. Ferries

Ferries are available for commuters in the broader region. Timetables can be viewed here.

10.4. Taxis

Queenstown Taxis offers 24/7 service with the largest fleet of cars in Queenstown, but it can be expensive.

FAQ about Hotels Queenstown New Zealand Travel and Tourism

1. What is Queenstown known for?

Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, offering activities like bungee jumping, skiing, and jet boating amidst stunning scenery. It’s also known for its luxury accommodations and world-class wineries.

2. When is the best time to visit Queenstown for skiing?

The best time to visit Queenstown for skiing is from July through September, offering optimal snow conditions.

3. Are there luxury hotels in Queenstown with airport transfer services?

Yes, hotels like The Carlin offer airport transfers via luxury vehicles such as Bentley, Porsche, or Maserati.

4. How can I get to Milford Sound from Queenstown?

You can take a helicopter tour with providers like Over The Top for a scenic flight to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most famous natural wonders.

5. What are some top wineries to visit in Queenstown?

Top wineries to visit include Amisfield, Kinross, Gibbston Valley, and Rippon in Wanaka, offering a range of Pinot Noirs and scenic vineyard settings.

6. Is it necessary to rent a car in Queenstown?

No, it’s not necessary to rent a car as many activity operators provide transfers, and the town is walkable. However, a rental car can be useful for exploring surrounding areas like Arrowtown and Glenorchy.

7. What kind of cuisine can I expect in Queenstown restaurants?

Queenstown offers a diverse culinary scene, including traditional New Zealand cuisine, Asian-fusion, and international dishes, with options ranging from fine dining to casual eateries.

8. Are there family-friendly activities in Queenstown?

Yes, families can enjoy activities like visiting the Remarkable Sweet Shop, taking a boat tour on the TSS Earnslaw, and exploring the Queenstown Gardens.

9. What is Matariki, and when is it celebrated in Queenstown?

Matariki is the Maori New Year, celebrated in June with events like the Winter Lights Festival and Luma light festival.

10. How can SIXT.VN enhance my travel experience in Queenstown?

SIXT.VN offers convenient rental car services at Queenstown Airport, ensuring you have a reliable vehicle to explore the region at your own pace. Plus, SIXT.VN can assist with booking accommodations and tours, making your trip seamless and enjoyable.

Elevate Your Queenstown Adventure with SIXT.VN

Ready to explore Queenstown? SIXT.VN is here to help you plan the perfect trip. From airport transfers to luxurious hotels and thrilling activities, we ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Don’t let planning challenges hold you back. With SIXT.VN, you can easily book accommodations, arrange transportation, and discover the best attractions Queenstown has to offer. Contact us today to start planning your dream vacation.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN