10 Top Tours & Experiences In Queenstown (With Reviews & Prices)

Queenstown’s reputation as the adventure capital of New Zealand is well deserved. But beyond adrenaline rushes, it offers a wide variety of memorable experiences—delicious farm dinners, stunning fiord cruises, wine tastings, and scenic flights. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing lakeside meal, a high-speed jet boat ride, or a wine tour through lush vineyards, Queenstown has something to match your interests. We especially love the Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise for its combination of great food, scenic views, and farm demonstrations—an authentic taste of rural life. For those with a love of spectacular scenery, the Milford Sound Flight and Cruise offers breathtaking aerial vistas paired with a quiet cruise in a world-famous fiord.

Queenstown’s broad appeal is rooted in its mix of adventure, relaxation, and gourmet experiences. No matter if you want to soar over snow-capped peaks or taste fine wines in historic vineyards, the options are practically endless. The key is picking tours that match your energy level, interests, and how much time you want to spend exploring. Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of our favorite Queenstown tours and experiences, all with detailed descriptions to help you plan your perfect trip.

1. Queenstown: Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise

Discover Queenstown’s top farm-to-table experience with the Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise. This 3.5-hour tour combines a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu with a delicious buffet of local and homegrown produce served at Walter Peak High Country Farm. The experience begins with a return cruise on your vessel of choice, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and water. Once ashore, you’ll enjoy a gourmet BBQ buffet with a selection of meats, salads, and fresh sides, all prepared with ingredients from the farm’s own land.

What makes this tour stand out is the farm dog show that showcases life on a working farm, plus an optional morning or afternoon tea at the old woolshed. The friendly atmosphere, combined with informative farm demonstrations, creates an authentic Kiwi experience. Reviews praise the tour’s excellent food quality—”the buffet was fantastic and the boat ride very scenic,” one traveler noted. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed, culturally rich outing with tasty food and beautiful scenery.

Bottom line: This is a top choice for food lovers and anyone wanting a taste of rural New Zealand with a side of scenic water views.

2. Queenstown: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip

At number 2, the Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip offers a well-rounded day immersed in Fiordland’s stunning landscapes. It’s a 12-hour journey that takes you through the lush rainforests, waterfalls, and towering cliffs of Milford Sound, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings. The tour’s highlight is the cruise around Milford Sound, where you’ll witness breathtaking waterfalls like the Stirling Falls and spot seals and dolphins.

What sets this trip apart is the scenic coach ride, which is about as picturesque as the fiord itself. The guides entertain with insightful commentary about the region’s geology, flora, and fauna. Reviewers love the balance of comfort and scenery—”the coach was very comfortable, and the views unforgettable,” says one traveler. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive experience in a single day, with the flexibility to relax and enjoy nature.

Bottom line: Perfect for those who prefer a full-day, hassle-free scenic adventure with plenty of photo opportunities.

3. From Queenstown: Milford Sound Full-Day Trip by Plane & Boat

The Milford Sound Full-Day Trip by Plane & Boat offers a premium glimpse into this iconic fiord. The tour includes return scenic flights over snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, and lush forests, guaranteeing spectacular views inaccessible by road. Once at Milford Sound, you’ll hop on a 2-hour cruise that gets you close to waterfalls, cliffs, and wildlife, with the added bonus of guaranteed window seats on the aircraft.

This experience is perfect for travelers who crave a bird’s eye view of New Zealand’s wilderness combined with a peaceful cruise. The reviews praise the professional pilots and the stunning photo opportunities, with one traveler describing it as “the best way to see Milford Sound.” It’s a shorter but immersive trip, suited for those who want a luxurious, top-tier experience.

Bottom line: Ideal for photo enthusiasts and those wanting a quick but immersive scenic adventure with excellent flight views.

4. Small-Group Zipline Adventure in Queenstown

For adrenaline lovers, the Small-Group Zipline Adventure in Queenstown delivers a heart-pumping 2-hour ride through mountain forests. This tour features the world’s steepest tree-to-tree zipline, soaring 1,500 feet above Queenstown, with three different course options for varying thrill levels. Beginners can opt for less intense lines, while thrill-seekers might try the 68-foot drop.

The safety equipment is top-notch, and guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness. Reviewers describe the experience as “fun-filled with breathtaking views,” even for those afraid of heights. If you’re looking for a quick, exciting outdoor activity that’s suitable for most ages and skill levels, this is a perfect pick.

Bottom line: A high-energy, fun activity with stunning mountain scenery that appeals to adventure-seekers and first-timers alike.

5. Queenstown ATV Quad Bike Adventure Tour

The Queenstown ATV Quad Bike Adventure offers a 1-hour ride across rugged trails in a 650-acre private park. Helmets, gloves, goggles, and wet-weather gear are included, making it a hassle-free way to explore Queenstown’s outdoors. Guided by an expert, you’ll navigate hill climbs and forest tracks, with stunning views over the lake and mountains.

This tour is perfect for those who want a hands-on outdoor experience but don’t want to commit to a full day. Reviewers rave about the friendly guides and the stunning scenery—“the views at the top were incredible,” one writes. It suits all skill levels, making it ideal for beginners or seasoned riders. The short duration allows for a quick dose of adventure without taking up your entire day.

Bottom line: Great for a quick, adrenaline-filled outdoor activity that combines scenery and fun.

6. Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride

At number 6, the Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride is a classic Queenstown thrill. The 1-hour ride takes you over Lake Wakatipu and through the Shotover and Kawarau rivers, where your driver performs expert 360° spins and high-speed passes. The boat is designed for all-weather comfort, with heated handrails and safety features.

This tour is perfect for thrill-seekers who want an authentic adrenaline rush while enjoying some of New Zealand’s most famous rivers. Reviews highlight the exciting spins and spectacular scenery—“absolutely exhilarating,” says one. It’s a fun, fast-paced activity suited for most visitors who can handle high speeds and quick turns.

Bottom line: The ideal choice if you want a quick, adrenaline-filled ride in a beautiful setting.

7. Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown (incl Lunch)

For a luxurious day out, the Milford Sound Flight and Cruise with Lunch combines scenic aerial views with a relaxing water cruise. It includes a flight over the mountains and a 2-hour cruise in Milford Sound, with a delicious lunch served onboard. The live commentary enriches the experience, pointing out glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full sensory experience—sights from the sky, serenity on the water, and excellent food. Reviewers emphasize the luxury and personalized service—“the perfect blend of adventure and comfort,” one says. It’s suited for those with a slightly higher budget who value quality and exclusivity.

Bottom line: Excellent for those seeking a luxury, all-inclusive experience with spectacular views.

8. Boutique Wine Tour – visit Central Otago, 4 Wineries & Lunch

Wine lovers will appreciate the Boutique Wine Tour in Central Otago. This 5.5-hour tour visits four renowned wineries, including Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell, with tastings and a gourmet lunch included. The small-group format allows for a more personalized experience, and transportation is provided so you can drink without worry.

Guests praise the knowledgeable guide and the variety of wines—”the wines at Gibbston Valley were fantastic,” says one reviewer. The walk through Cromwell’s scenic streets adds a bit of local flavor. This tour suits wine enthusiasts eager to explore Otago’s best vineyards with ease.

Bottom line: Perfect for wine aficionados wanting a relaxed, informative day with excellent food and tastings.

9. From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

This Milford Sound Cruise & Coach offers a comprehensive 12-hour journey that combines scenic bus travel with a boat cruise deep into Milford Sound. The luxury coach provides panoramic views en route, and the 2-hour cruise features waterfalls, towering cliffs, and wildlife sightings like seals and dolphins.

Ideal for travelers who want to cover lots of ground in one day without sacrificing comfort, this trip receives high marks for its value and scenery. One traveler notes, “the coach was very luxurious and the cruise was breathtaking.” It’s a good pick for those with a tighter schedule but a desire for a full experience.

Bottom line: A solid, all-in-one option for seeing Milford without a multi-day commitment.

10. Award Winning Premium Wine Tour Queenstown Tasting at 4 Wineries

For true connoisseurs, the Premium Wine Tour of Queenstown’s 4 Wineries offers in-depth tastings and behind-the-scenes cellar tours. Over 6 hours, you’ll explore Gibbston Valley, Kinross, Mt. Rosa, and Ayrburn, sampling a variety of wines, from crisp whites to bold reds. Travel is in a luxury Mercedes van, and hotel pickup is included.

Reviewers comment on the knowledgeable guides and the quality of wines—“a wine lover’s dream,” one says. The tour balances relaxed sampling with insightful commentary, making it well suited for those who want to learn about New Zealand’s wine regions.

Bottom line: Ideal for seasoned wine enthusiasts seeking an immersive, premium experience.

How to Choose the Perfect Queenstown Tour

Choosing among Queenstown’s wide array of tours depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you want a delicious farm-to-table experience, the Walter Peak BBQ is a relaxing choice. For a full day of scenery, the Milford Sound Flights & Cruises and Cruise & Coach are excellent, especially if you love seeing mountains from above.

Adrenaline seekers should look at the Zipline Adventure or the Shotover Jet Ride. For those interested in wine, the Boutique Wine Tour or the Premium Winery Tour offers an immersive tasting experience.

Consider your available time, budget, and whether you prefer relaxing water cruises, scenic flights, or active adventures. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like Milford Sound or exclusive wine tastings.

Queenstown’s variety of tours ensures you’ll find something that suits your travel style. Whether you want to sip wine in the vineyards, cruise among waterfalls, or zipline through the forest, this adventure hub delivers. For a balanced mix of scenic beauty and adventure, the Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ and Milford Sound Flight & Cruise are particularly outstanding. No matter your interest, booking ahead will help ensure you don’t miss out on these spectacular experiences during your visit to Queenstown.