Queenstown’s 10 Best Drinking Tours: Which To Choose?

Queenstown isn’t just about adrenaline-pumping adventures or stunning mountain vistas—it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a well-crafted drink. This lively town offers a surprising range of drinking tours that cater to all tastes, whether you’re into local wines, craft beers, gin, or even ice bars. We love experiences like the Afternoon Wine & Beer Tour with Platters for its relaxed pace and excellent inclusions, and the Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Riding Trek for those who want a bit of adventure with their drinks. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, craft beer lover, or just want to soak up Queenstown’s lively nightlife, this list covers all the bases.

Queenstown’s compact size and friendly local operators make these tours both accessible and fun. The variety—from scenic winery visits to lively pub crawls—means there’s something for all. And with options like the Queenstown Hop-on Hop-off Evening Beer Tour or the Ice Bar Experiences, you can tailor your evening to your mood, pace, or interest level.

1. Queenstown: Afternoon Wine & Beer Tour with Platters

The Queenstown: Afternoon Wine & Beer Tour with Platters is a favorite for its relaxed style and focus on local flavors. For about $158.25 per person, you’ll spend around four hours visiting three different wineries or breweries in the Gibbston region. The tour is especially appealing because it removes the hassle of transportation—you’re driven between stops—and offers a choice between tastings of local wines or craft beers. The final stop features antipasti platters, making it a perfect way to wind down while enjoying regional products.

What makes this tour stand out is its intimate, small-group setting and the depth of tasting options. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides, with one commenting, “The food paired with wine is outstanding,” and another noting how fun and personal the experience felt. The tour’s focus on regional history and drinking culture adds an educational touch that appeals to wine and beer enthusiasts alike. If you want a laid-back afternoon with quality tastings and good company, this tour hits the mark.

Bottom line: It’s an ideal choice for those who want a comprehensive, relaxed introduction to Queenstown’s wine and beer scene, all without worrying about driving.

2. Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Riding Trek (Intermediate+)

For about $365.29, the Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Riding Trek offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and pub culture. This 3.5-hour trek takes you into New Zealand’s rugged wilderness, where you’ll pass historical sites linked to the 19th-century gold rush, cross rivers, and enjoy panoramic mountain views. The highlight? A stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand’s oldest pubs, for a well-earned drink.

This tour’s appeal lies in its combination of scenic riding and storytelling, with guides sharing insights into the area’s gold rush history. The horses are in excellent condition, and riders of all skill levels are welcome, making it accessible for most. The reviews mention the friendly guides, with one stating, “Kel and the other coaches provided such an amazing opportunity,” highlighting the personal touch. You’ll get to trot and canter through beautiful landscapes, making it a favorite for those who want a taste of adventure with their refreshment.

Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who love horses, scenic views, and a bit of history, all with the reward of a cold drink at the end.

3. Queenstown: Minus 5 Ice Bar Experience with Drink Options

The Minus 5 Ice Bar Experience offers a cool escape—literally. For just an hour, you’ll don provided winter gear and step into an ice-carved wonderland where everything, from the bar to the sculptures, is made of ice. You’ll enjoy two drinks of your choice, either cocktails or mocktails, served in glasses made of ice.

What sets this experience apart is the artistry of the ice sculptures and the novelty of sipping drinks in a sub-zero environment. It’s a fun, short activity that makes for great photos and a memorable story. Reviewers love the craftsmanship, with one saying, “The ice structures are incredible,” and “the drinks are delicious and perfectly presented.” It’s perfect for those seeking a quick, themed escape from the usual bar scene or a fun activity with friends.

Bottom line: An excellent addition to any Queenstown night out, especially if you’re after something quirky and Instagram-worthy.

4. Queenstown: Ice Bar Entry with Warm Winter Gear and Drink

For a more relaxed ice experience, the Queenstown Ice Bar Entry offers a 1-hour visit with access to hand-carved ice sculptures and a curated menu of cocktails and mocktails. Included in the experience is the provision of plush winter coats, gloves, and boots if needed, so you stay warm while marveling at the crystal-clear ice architecture.

This venue’s ambiance is enchanting, with the room filled with intricate ice carvings and mood lighting. Visitors praise the cocktails, and many like to try the ice shot luges if available. The experience is ideal for those wanting a unique atmosphere without the full-length commitment of other activities. It’s perfect for couples or small groups looking for a memorable, cozy environment.

Bottom line: A delightful, atmospheric experience that makes for a fun, short outing—especially if you’re after a blend of cool visuals and warm drinks.

5. Queenstown: Twilight Wine and Craft Beer Tour

The Twilight Wine and Craft Beer Tour is a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. For $128, you’ll spend four hours visiting three different local spots, with a focus on both wine and craft beers, so you can tailor your tasting experience. Shared platters are included to complement the drinks, making it more social and relaxed.

What makes this tour a favorite is the timing—an afternoon departure that allows you to enjoy Queenstown’s evening atmosphere afterward. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of the local scene without a full-day commitment. Reviews mention the excellent value, with one saying, “The late afternoon timing means I could do this and still have time for other activities.” The small-group format makes it easy to ask questions and learn about the region’s drink-making traditions.

Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a casual, social evening of tasting with the flexibility of doing other activities later.

6. Queenstown: Ice Bar Crawl

The Queenstown Ice Bar Crawl combines the fun of a pub crawl with the novelty of the ice bar. Over four hours, you’ll visit five popular bars, enjoying five free shots and free pizza along the way. It’s a lively, social way to experience Queenstown’s nightlife and sample a variety of venues.

What makes this tour appealing is its emphasis on fun and social interaction. Reviewers mention the lively atmosphere and the chance to meet fellow travelers, with one saying, “Playing games and winning prizes made the night even better.” It’s perfect for those looking to party and explore multiple venues in one evening, especially if you enjoy a casual, no-pressure environment.

Bottom line: Ideal for night owls seeking a fun, energetic evening with free drinks and pizza.

7. Queenstown: Craft Beer Brewery Tour with Lunch

For about five hours, the Queenstown Craft Beer Brewery Tour with Lunch takes you behind the scenes of three boutique breweries. For a reasonable price, you’ll sample 13 local craft beers, learn about the brewing process, and enjoy a specially curated lunch. Starting with pickups from multiple hotels, the tour offers a guided experience with plenty of tasting opportunities.

What’s special here is the in-depth, interactive brewery visits and the chance to select beers that interest you most. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and the quality of the lunch, with one saying, “It was a perfect way to spend an afternoon with great beer and food.” This tour suits those eager to explore Queenstown’s craft beer scene more deeply while enjoying good food and socializing in a relaxed setting.

Bottom line: Best for beer lovers who want to learn about brewing and sample a wide range of local beers in one outing.

8. Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour | Adults Only

The Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour is a boutique experience, lasting about 3.5 hours and limited to groups of 10. It features over 12 tastings across wine, gin, and craft beer. Starting at Canyon Brewing with scenic views of the Shotover River, the tour continues to Rifters Gin in Arrowtown, where you can explore small-batch gins and the botanicals that make them unique.

What makes this tour stand out is its curated selection of drinks and scenic stops. Reviewers often mention the guide’s expertise, with one saying, “Emma was very knowledgeable and made the tour extremely enjoyable.” It’s ideal for travelers who want a more intimate, curated tasting experience, combining scenic views with high-quality drinks.

Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a more refined, personalized tasting day with scenic stops and small-group intimacy.

9. Queenstown: Bar Crawl with 5 Free Shots and Pizza

For those who enjoy social nights out, the Queenstown Bar Crawl offers a fun way to explore five top bars in town. You’ll get a free shot at each venue, along with free pizza, making for a casual, budget-friendly evening. The crawl also includes games and prizes, adding a competitive, lively edge.

This tour’s strength is its party atmosphere and the chance to try multiple venues without the hassle of figuring out where to go. Reviewers like the social vibe, with one saying, “Playing games and winning prizes made the night even better.” It’s best suited for travelers who want to experience Queenstown’s nightlife in a relaxed, fun setting.

Bottom line: Great for party-goers and groups looking for a lively, social night with freebies and fun.

10. Queenstown Hop-on Hop-off Evening Beer Tour

The Queenstown Hop-on Hop-off Evening Beer Tour gives you flexibility and variety. Running Thursday through Saturday from 5 pm to 10 pm, you can hop off at any of 15 stops around town, including breweries like Altitude and Searchlight. With maps and drink discounts, it’s a flexible way to explore Queenstown’s beer scene at your own pace.

This tour suits travelers wanting control over their evening and those keen on visiting different venues—without the commitment of a fixed itinerary. Reviewers appreciate the ease of transport and the opportunity to discover hidden spots. It’s perfect for casual drinkers who enjoy a bit of independence during their night out.

Bottom line: Best for independent spirits who want to sample a range of Queenstown’s best beer venues in one evening.

How to Choose Your Drinking Tour in Queenstown

Picking the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you prefer a relaxed, educational experience, the Afternoon Wine & Beer Tour offers a great starting point. For those craving outdoor adventure alongside drinks, the Horse Riding Trek combines scenic riding with pub stops. If nightlife is your focus, the Bar Crawl or the Hop-on Hop-off Beer Tour provide flexible and social options.

Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Twilight Wine & Craft Beer Tour, while those seeking a unique experience should consider the Ice Bar for its novelty. Book early, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.

Queenstown’s drinking scene is diverse, lively, and well worth exploring. From scenic tastings to lively pub crawls and icy marvels, there’s an activity to suit every style. Whether you’re after a relaxed afternoon or an energetic night out, these tours offer authentic, fun ways to enjoy the best of Queenstown’s beverage offerings. Consider your interests and pace, then pick the one that fits you best—most of all, enjoy the journey and the drinks along the way.