Queenstown is a bustling city known for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're skiing on the slopes, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Queenstown, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Queenstown?
You should plan to spend around $131 (NZ$219) per day on your vacation in Queenstown. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $62 (NZ$104) on meals
- $10 (NZ$17) on local transportation
- $111 (NZ$186) on hotels
A one week trip to Queenstown for two people costs, on average, $1,829 (NZ$3,066). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$915
NZ$1,533
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,829
NZ$3,066
-
One Month
Per person
$3,919
NZ$6,570
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,829
NZ$3,066
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$3,658
NZ$6,132
-
One Month
For a couple
$7,839
NZ$13,140
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Queenstown cost?
A one week trip to Queenstown usually costs around $915 (NZ$1,533) for one person and $1,829 (NZ$3,066) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Queenstown on average costs around $1,829 (NZ$3,066) for one person and $3,658 (NZ$6,132) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Queenstown will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Queenstown on average costs around $3,919 (NZ$6,570) for one person and $7,839 (NZ$13,140) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Queenstown expensive to visit?
Queenstown is a popular city that attracts plenty of visitors with a wide range of travel styles and spending habits. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Queenstown can certainly rack up expenses, but there are strategies to minimize costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $58 (NZ$95) per day, mid-range travelers spend $133 (NZ$219) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $278 (NZ$458) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Queenstown.
Within the Pacific, which is known to be an expensive region, Queenstown is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in the Pacific for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Paihia, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Sydney.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Queenstown Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Queenstown?
The average Queenstown trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Queenstown travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Queenstown cost?
Queenstown on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$24
(NZ$40)
|
$56
(NZ$93)
|
$111
(NZ$186)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$5
(NZ$7.62)
|
$10
(NZ$17)
|
$19
(NZ$31)
|
|
Food 2
|
$26
(NZ$43)
|
$62
(NZ$104)
|
$140
(NZ$234)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$9
(NZ$16)
|
$21
(NZ$36)
|
$43
(NZ$72)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-6
(NZ$3-10)
|
$4-13
(NZ$7-22)
|
$9-27
(NZ$15-45)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Queenstown with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.
The Truth on Budget Travel
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $58 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Fortunately, you'll find plenty of hostels in Queenstown, such as Nomads Queenstown, Adventure Queenstown Hostel, and Absoloot Hostel Queenstown. These hostels provide inexpensive dormitory lodging and a friendly atmosphere, but amenities are quite limited. While food is a highlight for many in Queenstown, budget travelers often resort to street food or self-catering in hostels, which can lead to missed opportunities for savoring the local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
Couples and families traveling for leisure often prefer mid-range hotels, dine at popular eateries, and visit key museums and attractions that require an entry fee. Many visitors to Queenstown are keen to visit the prominent attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. It's important to remember that most activities will cost you money. Consequently, you should anticipate your daily budget to be closer to $133 per person, per day.
Queenstown offers a fantastic variety of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, which can help save money. Families should focus on hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Queenstown House Boutique Bed & Breakfast & Apartments is an excellent choice, while Lomond Lodge Motel & Apartments is also a great option. While in Queenstown, couples should consider staying at Kamana Lakehouse for a romantic getaway. To find more accommodations that are family and couple-friendly, check our hotel guide for Queenstown.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $278 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the city, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as QUEENSTOWN:Private 1 way Airport transfer to/from CBD Hotels - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Queenstown
In Queenstown, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak summer season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $222, but during peak season they jump to an average of $414. You can find budget options starting at $72 up to luxury rates at $1,705. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Queenstown for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $111 (NZ$186). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $56 (NZ$93) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Queenstown? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Queenstown include:
- The Old Ferry Hotel Bed & Breakfast starting at $132
- Queenstown House Boutique Bed & Breakfast & Apartments starting at $183
- Lomond Lodge Motel & Apartments starting at $134
- Kamana Lakehouse starting at $235
- Alexis Motel & Apartments starting at $119
While Queenstown has a good public transit system, staying outside the city to save on accommodation could mean higher transportation costs and less convenience if you're short on time.
In a family-friendly place like Queenstown, finding accommodation with more space is key when traveling with children.
If you're headed to Queenstown for a honeymoon, luxury hotels are your best bet, and top choices include Kamana Lakehouse, Spa B&B, and Heritage Queenstown.
Visitors often spend a week in Queenstown. If you're planning to stay for a while, consider getting a vacation rental with a kitchen so you can cook your own meals.
Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than summer, will allow you to find cheaper accommodation and fewer tourists.
Many enjoy discovering Queenstown by walking, so it's beneficial to stay in a central spot. However, this convenience could lead to increased costs.
Prices often soar during ski season, so make sure to reserve your spot early. Locations with easy access to the slopes fill up quickly and may come with a high price tag.
Transportation Budget in Queenstown
With a good public transit network in Queenstown, many of the main sights are easy to reach. There's a decent bus system that travels around town. Public transit is a great way to save some cash and get around, but only if it's close to your destination. Taxis and rideshares are available, too.
Explorers who prefer to walk will have a fantastic time here. In town, many of the sights and activities can be reached on foot.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $10 (NZ$17) per person, per day, on local transportation in Queenstown. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Queenstown is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$10
NZ$17
If you're driving, it's essential to check if your hotel offers convenient parking.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Private Transfers from Queenstown Airport to Wanaka for $177 details
- Private Transfer from Wanaka to Queenstown Airport for $177 details
- Private Transfer from Queenstown Central to Wanaka for $177 details
How much does it cost to go to Queenstown? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Queenstown will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Queenstown
With its world-class cuisine, Queenstown is a food lover's paradise. Make it a priority to eat at local restaurants and try their standout dishes. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Queenstown can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Queenstown is $62 (NZ$104) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$62
NZ$104
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Queenstown is around $63 (NZ$104) per person, with previous travelers spending from $26 to $142. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Queenstown are as follows:
- Breakfast: $6 to $19
- Lunch: $9 to $25
- Dinner: $19 to $44
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $9
You'll find every type of restaurant in Queenstown, from fast food take away that is open all night long, to fine dining seafood restaurants where you can enjoy a nice, well prepared meal. The nicer restaurants in town almost always require a reservation, particularly during peak season when they can fill up quickly. Many of the wineries in the area are also open for lunch.
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
Several hotels include breakfast with your stay, while others charge separately for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can guide your budget decisions. It could be worth it for the tasty buffet available at the hotel, or you may wish to find a cheaper option at a local bakery or cafe.
Enjoy the scenery while saving money by planning a picnic. Find a nearby grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and choose a lovely park or picturesque spot for your meal.
Bring a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing drinks all the time. It's also a great way to help the environment.
If you're considering a tour, double-check which meals are included in the package. There may be instances where you'll have to pay for your own meals, potentially stretching your budget.
If you want to experience the culture in Queenstown, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Queenstown Progressive Dinner Tour | Experience 3 Locations for $227 details
- Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown for $113 details
- Bar Crawl with 5 Free Shots and Pizza for $18 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Queenstown
It's easy to see why people visit Queenstown, given its skiing, food, hiking, and romance.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Queenstown typically cost an average of $21 (NZ$36) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$21
NZ$36
Most people come to Queenstown for the spectacular views of the mountains. The scenery in the area is excellent. You'll find one of the best views of the area from the top of Bob's Peak. This peak can be accessed by the Skyline Gondola and there are views of Coronet Peak, the Remarkables mountain range, and the Cecil and Walter Peaks across Lake Wakatipu.
There is also a beautiful, scenic drive to Glenorchy. It takes about fifty minutes traveling north along Lake Wakatipu. The Gibbston Valley wine area is also just a twenty minute drive from town along the Kawarau Gorge. For even more ideas, read up on things to do in Queenstown such as wineries, gardens, and lakes nearby.
Queenstown offers some excellent adventure sports opportunities. These include skiing, snowboarding, bungyjumping, jet boats and horseback riding among other things. There are several private companies that offer trips out on the lake. This is a great way to enjoy the area's beauty. Several companies also organize scenic flights. Helicopters can take you around the area and offer views that can't be beat.
If you're hoping to relax a little, there are several good wine tasting opportunities as well as the Body Sanctum Day Spa in the area. The Central Oteago wine region produces cool climate wines that are of great quality.
You really won't be at a shortage of things to do if you have a couple days in Queenstown.
Skiing:
In Queenstown, skiing and snowboarding are among the main attractions people flock to. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.
Hiking:
Don't miss out on the wonderful hiking opportunities around Queenstown. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.
Shopping:
Don't pass up the chance to shop here, as it's fun and enjoyable. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Queenstown. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Guided eBike Tour 'Ride to the Sky' for $147 details
- The Wine Trail Tour for $173 details
- Half Day in Middle Earth - Lord of the Rings Tour for $113 details
A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Queenstown are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.
-
Skyline Gondola (for 2)
NZ$50
Nightlife Budget in Queenstown
The nightlife in Queenstown is fun and active, and visitors enjoy spending nights out at the local bars, clubs, and parties. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $8.93 (NZ$15) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Queenstown per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$8.93
NZ$15
While nightlife can be a blast, skipping a few rounds can significantly lower your travel expenses.
Nighttime outings can be fun, but make sure to stay aware of your environment, especially if you've been drinking. Pickpockets or worse could take advantage, so stick to trusted company.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Queenstown. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Gibbston Half-Day Private Wine Tour with Hotel Pickup for $197 details
- Guided eBike Wine Tour Ride to the Vines for $195 details
- Queenstown Afternoon Wine Tour with Wine Dog | Adults Only for $131 details
Traveling in Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is a popular tourist destination on New Zealand's South Island. It is beautifully surrounded by the Southern Alps and sits on the banks of Lake Wakatipu. Across the lake you will find a stunning view of the Remarkables, a dramatic mountain range. The town itself is quite touristy, but prices still remain reasonable. There are options for all travel budgets, whether you're a backpacker hoping to save a few dollars or a family looking for some luxury accommodation. Despite its natural and tranquil setting, Queenstown is actually very much a party town, particularly during the peak seasons. Don't be surprised to find people out enjoying themselves until the early hours of the morning. If you're not into the party scene and are hoping to get a decent night's sleep, consider staying a little outside of town. About an hour outside of Queenstown you'll find Wanaka, which is a much smaller and peaceful town without the party scene.
Queenstown's climate is oceanic, influenced by the town's location on the shore of Lake Wakatipu as well as its relatively moderate altitude and the surrounding mountains. The summers are warm with temperatures that may climb to 30 degrees Celsius. The winters are cold with frequent snowfall, but there is no permanent snow cover.
Neighborhoods & Around
Queenstown has a few neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. The central business district is the best area to stay if you hope to take advantage of the town's nightlife. There are more than fifty bars in the area.
If you want a slightly quieter experience, there are several surrounding neighborhoods that make a quiet base but offer easy access to the center of town. The Glenorchy Road area and the Kingston Road area have great views and a natural setting with high end lodges, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. The Gibbston Valley area has a variety of accommodation options near many of the vineyards. Arrowtown is the historic precinct with much of the area's history and culture.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.