Blog

27th April 2026

Time is valuable, and making the most of a short break matters, but with so many choices, where do you begin? We’ve created a tailored itinerary for a 3-night winter escape to Queenstown to inspire what your trip could look like.

Day 1:

Jump off the plane and head to your accommodation. Pop open a bottle of bubbles, or delve into a cheese board – you’ve made it! As you are settling into the villa and checking out the views, ski technicians make their way to you for your in-villa equipment fitting.

With everything taken care of, the team will have you fitted and ready to hit the slopes tomorrow, with no stress involved. You’ll be perfectly prepped to enjoy Queenstown’s famous night skiing!

Afterwards, wrap up warm and head into town. Take your time exploring the streets or enjoy a walk by the lake, where you’re likely to stumble across street performers from all over the world. The lineup is always changing, so you never quite know what you’ll find – maybe a juggler, a pianist, or even a dog with a talent for singing.

Queenstown’s winter food scene won’t disappoint either. From the bold flavours of Margo’s, to the vibrant dishes at Madam Woo, or a more refined meal at Botswana Butchery, there’s something to suit every taste.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, Soda is a great shout. This stylish rooftop bar serves up inventive cocktails alongside beautiful lake views, making it an ideal spot to ease into your weekend.

Day 2:

Waking up to your first full day is always exciting and what a day you have in store!

First on the agenda is breakfast, at the ever-popular Bespoke Kitchen Café. If last night’s cocktails are still hanging a little heavy, you’re in the right place for a good coffee and decent feed. Think smashed avo, eggs benny and chilli scrambles. Conveniently located a few minute’s walk from the Skyline Gondola, this is setting you up for a fun filled morning.

Once you’re ready, head on up to the recently upgraded Gondola to catch a ride up the hill. This is a really special trip that gives you a stunning vantage point over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the towering mountains that surround the town.

Arriving at the top of the hill, there is an array options to keep you busy. From the jellybean store, café, ziplining, bungy jumping, paragliding and of course – the luge! You really could spend hours here but for this whistlestop itinerary, we are going to focus on the luge.

Hopping on the gondola to take you to the luge area, there are two tracks to choose from (red and blue), and countless rides of fun to be had. We recommend starting off with 3 or 5 rides each so that you have time to get a feel for it and hone in on your skills! This is one of the most popular activities for all ages, from little ones right through to the grown-ups, and for good reason.

From one activity to another, it’s time to head back down the hill on the Gondola and make your way to the jetty on the lakefront. There are many jet boats to choose from in and around the area, all with their own unique differences. Kjet is perfectly placed on the lakefront making it easy to access for all, offering a 1-hour thrill ride along Lake Wakatipu, the Shotover River and Kawarau River. Hold on tight and squeal as your highly skilled driver navigates the waters at high speed and throws the boat into 360 spins.

Having worked up an appetite, head to Shotover Street and the world famous Fergburger. This burger joint is open close to 20 hours a day to meet demand….so queueing is to be expected. We recommend asking for your burgers to be cut in half – this way you can swap with your travel companions and try two burgers at once!

After what has been a busy day filled with iconic Queenstown winter moments, why stop there?  Don your ski gear and head to night ski at Coronet Peak to top it all off! With DJ’s, unreal sunsets and good vibes, this is a memory in the making.

Day 3:

After an action-packed day ticking off Queenstown’s must-do winter experiences, today takes a slower, more scenic turn – highlighting some of the region’s most breathtaking spots you won’t want to miss.

Start your morning at Yonder, a favourite among locals for coffee and brunch. Think towering stacks of pancakes, velvety matcha lattes, and creative takes on eggs benedict. Once you’ve indulged, it’s time to set off on the road.

At the far end of Lake Wakatipu lies the small township of Glenorchy, home to just a few hundred residents. Around a 50-minute drive from Queenstown, it offers a peaceful escape into a charming, remote setting that perfectly captures the essence of Kiwi life.

With plenty of back country to explore, Glenorchy is well loved by hiking, fishing and outdoor enthusiasts. It is also home to many Lord of the Rings filming locations! If you don’t have a vehicle, or prefer to be a passenger, check out this half-day scenic tour to enjoy some ‘behind the scenes’ access to these famous filming locations.

The drive winds its way along the hillside, with plenty of spots to pull over and take it all in. Following the lake the whole way, it’s easily one of the most scenic journeys on the South Island. If you feel like a walk after breakfast, stop at Bob’s Cove, famous for its bright turquoise water and an easy viewpoint track. Otherwise, keep going to Glenorchy and check out the Lagoon Walkway. It’s an easy loop through wetlands where you might spot black swans, shovellers, or even falcons.

Right in the middle of Glenorchy, Mrs Woolly’s Café is a local institution. With produce grown just across the road, it’s the perfect place to try a classic Kiwi meat pie – there are plenty of options to pick from.

Glenorchy is the kind of place that encourages you to slow down and take it all in. Once you’re ready, head back to Queenstown.

Later, freshen up and get ready for a special evening. Your guide will pick you up and take you to Arrowtown for a night of great food and local stories. Start at La Rumbla with tapas and cocktails, then stroll through the historic streets while learning about the gold rush days. Dinner is a four-course experience at Aosta, before ending the night at the stylish and cosy Little Blue Door.

Day 4:

Day 4 is upon us and with that, your journey home! However, there is usually time to squeeze in one final brunch before hopping on the plane.

Perfectly positioned on the Frankton Marina, is The Boatshed Café. With the fire roaring, and snowcapped mountains as your view, this is a magical spot to finish your holiday. It pays to call ahead and reserve a table here – with wonderful service and delightful food, this is a hit with holidaymakers and tourists alike.

From the marina it’s only a 5-minute drive to the airport where we bid you farewell.

If you did have a little extra time to spare, then a walk along Frankton Beach is easily accessed from the café, or a 10-minute drive will see you at the Lake Hayes loop track.

So that’s it, your trip is coming to its end, and we hope that you’ve had a spectacular time making memories and experiencing just some of what winter in Queenstown has to offer. A 3-night getaway is perfect for combining a busy lifestyle and commitments, but still getting that break that you deserve.

Thinking of a little Queenstown winter getaway? Book your stay with the assistance of MajorDomo Luxury Villas and start planning a getaway you won’t forget!