A complete and up-to-date accommodation guide for where to stay in Queenstown, New Zealand. Features the best Queenstown hotels, ranging from luxury lodges to budget backpacker accommodations.
Queenstown is New Zealand’s adventure capital, and perhaps one of the most scenic mountain towns in the world. There is an abundance of activities and things to do in Queenstown, from skiing to hiking to just enjoying the ambience of The Remarkables Mountain Range above beautiful Lake Wakatipu.
It’s no wonder then that this town attracts over three million visitors every year, all looking for the best places to stay to make the most of this incredible pocket of New Zealand.
In this accommodation guide, I aim to arm you with all the knowledge you require to help you find where to stay in Queenstown. I’ve included a summary of the best areas, as well as hotel options, ranging from luxury mountain lodges with mountain views and spas to budget-friendly, backpacker hostels.
A Quick Rundown of Where to Stay in Queenstown
Best Queenstown Luxury Hotel: Shotover Penthouse
Where to Stay close to Queenstown Airport: The Rees Hotel
Best Value Hotel: Melbourne Lodge
Top Budget Accommodation: YHA Lakefront
Best Area to Stay in Queenstown
The actual town of Queenstown is remarkably small for its huge tourist draw. However, before you dive into the accommodation list for where to stay, you might want to understand a little more about Queenstown and the different areas.
Below is a quick summary to help you pick the best place to stay, depending on the activities you'd enjoy.
- Queenstown - Refers to downtown, it's quite small, you can walk to pubs, clubs, restaurants, shops, the Gondola and Lake Wakatipu. Most tours and activities include transport from town.
- Fern Hill - A residential hill just above the town. Many locals and seasonal workers live here as it's more affordable. It's a little bit harder to walk to the main attractions from here.
- Bob's Cove - A small, beautiful lakeside township offering short walks and luxury accommodation just 15 minutes out of town.
- Arrowtown - Another small, historic mining town 18 minutes from Queenstown. The much quieter and quaint atmosphere with walking tracks and river close by. Also good for Queenstown accommodation for skiing as it's close to the Mount Coronet Ski Slopes.
- Frankton & Shotover - Closer to the airport. Many Queenstown hotel options are found alongside the Shotover River. It's close to attractions like the Shotover Bridge, Kawarau Gorge Bungy and the Remarkables Ski Area.
To summarise, if you're looking for where to stay in Queenstown for nightlife, restaurants and being close to the action, choose a hotel or hostel close to town. If you're looking for Queenstown accommodation for skiing, you could also consider lodging in either Arrowtown or in Shotover. If you're looking to get away somewhere quieter, check out Bob's Cove.
Summary of the Best Hotels in Queenstown
Before we get into the detailed recommendations for where to stay in Queenstown, check out this quick summary table.
The prices indicated are average and can vary, but is a good estimate of what to expect. Click the name of the hotel to check up-to-date prices on Booking.com for the best deals on accommodation.
Luxury Hotels
| Option | Area | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Shotover Penthouse | Queenstown | $$$$ |
 | Commonage Villas | Queenstown | $$$$ |
 | Azur Lodge | Fern Hill | $$$$ |
 | Remarkable Escape | Fern Hill | $$$$ |
Best Mid-Range Hotels
| Option | Area | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | LakeRidge | Queenstown | $$$ |
 | The Rees Hotel | Frankton | $$$ |
 | Kamana Lakehouse | Fern Hill | $$$ |
 | Millbrook Resort | Arrowtown | $$$ |
 | The Canyons B&B | Shotover | $$ |
Best Budget Hostels
| Option | Area | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Melbourne Lodge | Queenstown | $$ |
 | The Black Sheep | Queenstown | $ |
 | Tahuna Pod Hostel | Queenstown | $ |
 | YHA Queenstown | Queenstown | $ |
Best Places to Stay in Queenstown
For those looking for a bit more information on where to stay in Queenstown, I've included a summary with photos of all the Queenstown accommodation options listed below.
Best Luxury Hotels
Shotover Penthouse & Spa
- Area: Queenstown
- Best for: Incredible views and outdoor hot tub
Shotover Penthouse & Spa is an incredible apartment that features an outdoor terrace with a barbecue and hot tub. It is situated 200m from the Skyline Gondola and Luge and is 1.3km from the Shotover river.
The apartment offers three large bedrooms and a spacious dining and kitchen. Wi-Fi and free parking is available on-site. Shotover Penthouse & Spa is a perfect holiday option all year round and a great place to stay in Queenstown if a luxury, central location is important.
Commonage Villas
- Area: Queenstown
- Best for: Panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu
Commonage Villas offers 5-star luxury views over Lake Wakatipu and its surrounding landscapes. There are two styles of villas to choose from but both are luxury-style with mountain views. Each Villa offers large dining and seating areas and is a great place to stay in Queenstown if you're looking for a hotel with a spa bath.
Commonage Villas is situated on Queenstown Hill and is only a 7-minute walk downhill to Queenstown Centre. These villas are a great pick for families or small groups who want to explore Queenstown and want to enjoy the mountain views.
Azur Lodge
- Area: Queenstown
- Best for: Spa bath with panoramic views
Azur Lodge features panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu and is situated on the foot of Fern Hill (Sunshine Bay). It offers room service breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and runs a private shuttle to and from the town center every day. Each bedroom provides spectacular views of the Remarkables Mountain Range and Lake Wakatipu.
This one is a great luxury hotel option for those interested in where to stay in Queenstown for a romantic getaway or a relaxing solo retreat.
Remarkable Escape
- Area: Fern Hill
- Best for: Luxury holiday house with mountain views
Remarkable Escape is a luxury four-bedroom holiday house located just a five minute drive from central Queenstown. This property also features stunning views over lake Wakatipu and the Remarkable mountain range. It offers open living areas with a spa pool, a large kitchen, and an outdoor fireplace.
Remarkable Escape is located in a quiet street and has outstanding restaurants within a short walking distance. Walking to the town center can also be done by taking the beautiful lake walkway.
Best Mid-Range Hotels
LakeRidge
- Area: Queenstown
- Best for: Stunning Remarkables Mountain views
Did you come looking for a luxury place to stay in Queenstown, complete with stunning views at an affordable price? LakeRidge offers two and three bedroom apartments that each include a large lounge room area, equipped kitchen, spa, and indoor fireplace.
LakeRidge is a short five-minute walk to the town center and an eight-minute walk to the Skyline Gondola. It is a top pick for families and groups due to its indoor and outdoor living areas.
The Rees Hotel
- Area: Queenstown
- Best for: Lakefront balconies and spectacular views
The Rees Hotel and Apartments offers one to three-bedroom modern rooms equipped with private balconies which overlook Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding Remarkable mountains.
This stunning Queenstown accommodation is a short ten-minute drive from the town center towards Frankton and it provides a range of services to its guests such as massage, body and facial treatments and mountain bike hire. Perfect fit for families or groups wanting a luxury experience for an affordable price.
Kamana Lakehouse
- Area: Queenstown
- Best for: Buffet Breakfast and incredible views
Kamana Lakehouse is just a short five-minute drive from Queenstown center at the base of Fern Hill. It offers incredible views of the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu. Additionally, guests can also enjoy a range of modern rooms which cater for up to two adults and two children.
For hiking enthusiasts, Kamana Lakehouse is a good pick for where to stay in Queenstown as it's only a five-minute walk from the entrance to the famous Ben Lomond track and Fernhill Loop Track.
The Millbrook Resort
- Area: Arrowtown
- Best for: Affordable Luxury Lodge in Arrowtown
The Millbrook Resort is an award-winning 5-star retreat located on 650 acres of beautiful countryside near Arrowtown. For those people looking for an all-inclusive retreat away from the hustle and bustle but still close enough to get in on the highlights, look no further.
The Millbrook has elegantly decorated suites with mountain views and features a Fitness Centre and three outdoor hot pools!
The Canyons B&B
- Area: Shotover
- Best for: Shotover river views outdoor spa pool
The Canyons B&B just a short five-minute drive from the town center offers spectacular views of the Shotover River and surrounding mountain peaks.
This Queenstown B&B features spacious rooms with private patios and an outdoor spa pool. This is a great place to stay for those wanting to immerse themselves within the landscapes that this incredible region has to offer. It's also a great lodge for skiers as it's closer to the Remarkables Ski Fields and the incredible Lake Alta hike.
Bonus Accommodation: Glam Camping Queenstown
- Area: Moke Lake
- Best for: Glamping experience
Glam camping is a glamping experience you don't want to miss. Situated off the grid overlooking Moke Lake the views are incredible. All tents have access to a shared cooking facility and bathroom. The tents sleep two people and are a popular choice for those who want peace and quiet whilst being surrounded by mountains and nature.
Glam camping is a twenty-minute drive from Queenstown and has a range of outdoor hikes and activities nearby.
Best Budget Hostels & Value Hotels
Melbourne Lodge
- Area: Queenstown
- Best for: Mountain views at an affordable price
Melbourne Lodge is located five minutes walk from central Queenstown. It offers picturesque views of the Remarkable mountains and has a large shared outdoor sundeck.
This is a great choice for where to stay cheaply in Queenstown. This lodge is suitable for families or those traveling solo on a budget.
The Black Sheep Backpackers
- Area: Queenstown
- Best for: Backpackers close to Skyline Gondola and Luge
The Black Sheep Backpackers is a fun-filled hostel that features pod beds, an outdoor hot tub, and loads of storage for your ski gear. It is located within walking distance from central Queenstown and it also offers free bike rental. It's an excellent Queenstown backpacker accommodation option as the hostel is very close to the action and has great reviews for the vibe.
This is a great choice for those wanting to socialize and meet other travelers.
Tahuna Pod Hostel
- Area: Queenstown
- Best for: Pod hostel with city views and location
Tahuna Pod Hostel offers exceptional views of the Remarkable mountains and is situated in central Queenstown. This one is commonly referred to as one of the best hostels in the world, so don't miss it!
Tahuna Pod Hostel is close to the Skyline Gondola and Luge and is surrounded by a range of different restaurants and cafes. It is also a short walk from the entrance of Queenstown hill. I would recommend this to those traveling solo in Queenstown and who want an affordable place to stay and are looking for privacy.
YHA Queenstown Lakefront
- Area: Queenstown
- Best for: Atmosphere and Location
YHA opposite the incredible Lake Wakatipu is one of the best and highest-rated hostels in Queenstown. If you’re looking to meet other adventure travelers, be close to the action, and prefer a comfortable dorm bed, don’t look past YHA Lakefront.
This is one of the most popular cheap accommodation options for where to stay in Queenstown.
More Travel & Adventure Guides to Queenstown & New Zealand
I hope that you've found this accommodation guide to the best places to stay in Queenstown helpful for planning your next trip to New Zealand's adventure capital!
If you're still planning your travels, don't miss out on some of my other articles for things to do including hikes, adrenaline activities, and tips to finding hidden gems in Queenstown, New Zealand.
