Do you need a car around Queenstown?

The best way to get around Queenstown is by car, since many of the city's activities are spread apart. Plus, there's limited public transportation to get you from point A to point B. That said, you can certainly walk around downtown Queenstown and get a feel for the city.



You do not necessarily need a car to enjoy Queenstown, as it is one of the most walkable and tourist-friendly hubs in New Zealand. The town center is compact, and major attractions like the Skyline Gondola, the TSS Earnslaw steamship, and the Queenstown Gardens are all within easy walking distance. For excursions further afield, there is an excellent public bus system ("Orbus") that runs to Arrowtown and Frankton for a few dollars. Most adrenaline activities, such as bungy jumping, jet boating, and Milford Sound tours, include complimentary shuttle pick-ups from central locations. However, if you plan to explore remote trailheads, visit several wineries in the Gibbston Valley at your own pace, or take a road trip to Glenorchy or Wanaka, renting a car for a day or two provides much-needed flexibility to escape the main tourist crowds.

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Getting around Queenstown is easy, whether you use the $2 public bus network, explore the region by foot or by bike on the Queenstown Trail, or hire your own car. For an extra scenic option, hop on the Queenstown ferry network which operates scheduled daily services from Frankton to Queenstown.

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In Queenstown, a little light exercise is rewarded with big spectacular views. The Whakatipu Basin is a walkers' paradise. You don't even need to go far from the town centre to connect deeply with nature and experience some of the best day walks in Queenstown.

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A week in Queenstown is perfect to really take in everything this town has to offer and explore some of the surroundings. With 7 days at your disposal, you'll be able to take it easy in Queenstown or, if you prefer your holiday to be packed, you can squeeze in a few more hikes and activities.

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Getting around Queenstown is easy, whether you use the $2 public bus network, explore the region by foot or by bike on the Queenstown Trail, or hire your own car.

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You just have to follow the normal common sense rules you would follow anywhere. Drunks tend to be noticeable and easy to avoid. Queenstown is well lit and there are always people around. Violence is rare.

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Taxis and shuttles are available directly outside the airport terminal. You can also catch a taxi in the centre of town at a taxi stand, or you can book a taxi over the phone or online.

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Is there a dress code? Pretty much anything goes in terms of dress code in Queenstown. We've never seen anyone get refused with flip flops/jandals/thongs on but, to be safe, we recommend you stick to enclosed shoes.

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With warmer weather, summer is the most popular time to visit, especially for crazy adventure sports and activities.

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InterCity operates a regular bus from Queenstown to Wanaka. The InterCity bus leaves Queenstown at Athol Street and arrives in Wanaka at the Log Cabin on the Lakefront, 100 Ardmore Street.

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5 days in Queenstown will give you enough time to see and do all of the highlights in and around this picture perfect mountain town. If you have less or more than 5 days in Queenstown, then use this itinerary as a guide and pick out the activities that will suit the length of your visit.

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The biggest tourist trap and most expensive place in New Zealand is undisputably Queenstown, but there is a reason why so many people get stuck in Queenstown; it is A LOT of fun!

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