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6-Day Itinerary from Queenstown to Mount Cook

Viewed by 94 travelers

Day 1: Explore Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder

Start your day with a delicious homemade granola and fresh fruit bowl, paired with a rich coffee to fuel your adventures.
Located in the heart of Queenstown, a quick 10-minute walk from most accommodations.
NZD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skyline Gondola

Take a scenic gondola ride up to Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.
The gondola station is walkable from Vudu Cafe, about 15 minutes away.
NZD44, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at 1876

Enjoy a relaxed lunch with local ingredients, such as the tasty lamb shoulder burger while overlooking the lake.
Located nearby the base of the gondola.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Jet Boating on the Shotover River

Experience an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride through the stunning Shotover Canyons.
The jet boat centre is about a 20-minute drive from central Queenstown.
NZD135, 2 hours

4:00PM

Walk Through Queenstown Gardens

Stroll through the picturesque gardens, enjoying the beautiful landscapes and views of the Remarkables.
The gardens are located a short walk from the town centre.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bunker

Indulge in a gourmet fine dining experience with inventive dishes made from local ingredients.
Located in the centre of Queenstown, just a 5-minute walk from the gardens.
NZD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 2: Journey to Glenorchy

Glenorchy, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Remarkables Market

Grab a fresh pastry and coffee from the market on your way out of Queenstown, enjoying local produce.
The market is on the way to Glenorchy, located on the Frankton-Ladies Mile Highway.
NZD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Glenorchy

Embark on the scenic 45-minute drive along Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy, a gateway to stunning landscapes.
Follow State Highway 6 to Glenorchy.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Glenorchy

Wander around this charming town and visit the iconic Glenorchy Wharf for stunning lake views.
Glenorchy is a small town and easily walkable.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Glenorchy Cafe

Savour a hearty lamb burger or a vegetarian option, while soaking in the mountain scenery.
Located in the heart of Glenorchy.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Routeburn Track

Take a short hike on a portion of the famous Routeburn Track, known for its breathtaking scenery.
The track is easily accessible from Glenorchy.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Return to Glenorchy and drive to Wanaka

End your explorations in Glenorchy and head towards the stunningest Wanaka area.
Drive back along State Highway 6 towards Wanaka.
NZD0, 1 hour 30 minutes

5:00PM

Check-in at Wanaka Hotel

Unwind at your accommodation before dinner.
Many hotels line the scenic lakefront.
NZD200, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Spice Room

Enjoy an Asian-influenced dinner with delectable dishes like coconut curry.
Located near Wanaka's lakefront.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Glenorchy

Day 3: Explore Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kai Whakapai

Treat yourself to a hearty breakfast with the Big Breakfast option and a delightful coffee.
A short walk from most accommodations in Wanaka.
NZD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Puzzling World

Explore quirky illusions and mazes that entertain both young and old at this fascinating attraction.
Located a short drive from central Wanaka.
NZD20, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Lake Wanaka Walk

Take a pleasant stroll along the lakefront and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
This lakeside trail is easily accessible from the town centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Landing

Have a light lunch with fresh salads and gourmet sandwiches looking at the lake.
Close to the lakefront.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hike Roy's Peak

Embrace the challenge of this famous hike, offering stunning views over Wanaka and the surrounding areas.
Access the trailhead by car approximately 10 minutes from the town centre.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Return from Hike and Refresh

Head back to your accommodation to relax and refresh after the hike.
Drive back from Roy’s Peak.
NZD0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Bistro Gentil

Enjoy fine dining with exquisite dishes made from local produce in a charming garden setting.
A short drive or 20-minute walk from the lakefront.
NZD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 4: Scenic Haast Pass

Haast Pass, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation before starting your scenic drive.
Most hotels serve breakfast; check while booking.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart for Haast Pass

Embark on the stunning drive through Haast Pass, taking in the breathtaking scenery along the way.
Follow the signs from Wanaka to Haast via State Highway 6.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Haast Pass Lookout

Stop at the lookout points for amazing views and great photo opportunities.
Multiple lookouts along the drive.
Free, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at the Haast River Cafe

Rejuvenate with sandwiches or pies made with local ingredients after a morning of travel.
Located along the main road in Haast.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Short Walk to Monro Beach

Stretch your legs with a quick walk to Monro Beach, enjoy the rugged coastline.
Drive to Monro Beach car park from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Arrival at Franz Josef Glacier

Continue onto Franz Josef with stunning views of the glacier upon arrival.
Drive along the Haast Highway north.
NZD0, 1 hour 30 minutes

5:00PM

Check-in at Franz Josef Accommodation

Settle into your accommodation and unwind after an adventurous day.
Multiple accommodation options available in Franz Josef.
NZD180, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Landing

Experience a delightful dinner with a menu focusing on locally sourced, high-quality ingredients.
Located in the centre of Franz Josef.
NZD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Haast Pass

Day 5: Explore Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef, New Zealand

7:30AM

Breakfast at Alice May

Fuel up with an energising breakfast of eggs benny or pancakes to start your day right.
A short walk from your accommodation.
NZD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Franz Josef Glacier Hike

Join a guided hike to the glacier, experiencing its beauty up close and contemplating its ancient nature.
Hiking tours depart from the village centre.
NZD250, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cafe

Relax over a casual lunch with freshly made sandwiches and coffee at the cafe.
Located conveniently in the village centre.
NZD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Glacier Hot Pools

Soak in the luxury of the famous hot pools to unwind from the morning's adventure.
Only a 5-minute drive from the village centre.
NZD40, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Local Scenic Trails

Spend some time exploring the nearby nature trails that showcase the stunning surroundings.
Numerous trails start from the village.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Accommodation

Take some time to relax and refresh after an adventurous day.
A short walk back to your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The White Pub

Enjoy classic New Zealand fare, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
A casual dining spot located in Franz Josef.
NZD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Franz Josef

Day 6: Final Journey to Mount Cook

Mount Cook, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Indulge in a tasty breakfast, usually included in your stay, to start the day well.
Various options depending on your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Mount Cook

Set off on your final journey toward the iconic Mount Cook, with stunning views along the way.
Follow State Highway 8 towards Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Arrival at Mount Cook National Park

Check in at the visitor centre, and plan your walking trails for the day.
Access to the national park is clearly signposted.
Free, 30 minutes

11:30AM

Hooker Valley Track

Enjoy an easy hike along the Hooker Valley Track, featuring spectacular views of Mount Cook and its glaciers.
The trailhead is just a short drive from the visitor centre.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Old Mount Cook Hotel

Relax with lunch with a view at the historic Old Mount Cook Hotel, enjoying a traditional Kiwi meal.
Close to the Park Village.
NZD35, 1 hour

3:00PM

Tasman Valley Explorer Tour

Join an afternoon tour in the Tasman Valley, for stunning views of the glacier and the mountain range.
The tours begin at the visitor centre.
NZD100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Accommodation in Mount Cook

Settle into your accommodation after an adventure-filled day.
Numerous options are available within Mount Cook Village.
NZD200, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at the Alpine Restaurant

Finish your trip with a fine dining experience featuring fresh seasonal produce and a lovely atmosphere.
Located in the MacKenzie Center, within Mount Cook Village.
NZD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Mount Cook
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New Zealand Multi-City Trip (Oct 23 - Nov 8, 2025)
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