5-Day Queenstown & Milford Sound
Combine adrenaline and serenity in one epic trip
The ultimate southern New Zealand adventure — three days of Queenstown thrills followed by a journey to the dramatic Milford Sound fiord.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Queenstown
Settle in and explore the lakefront town at your own pace.
Queenstown Gardens Walk
Stroll through the botanical gardens on the lake peninsula. Disc golf, rose gardens, and mountain views.
Dinner on Steamer Wharf
Waterfront dining with views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains.
Overnight: Queenstown CBD
Adventure in Queenstown
A full day of iconic Queenstown experiences.
Skyline Gondola & Luge
Panoramic views and gravity-fuelled luge rides.
Shotover Jet
Canyon jet boat thrills at 85km/h.
Overnight: Queenstown CBD
Combo deals are often available for Skyline + Jet Boat.
Glenorchy & Middle-earth
Journey to the stunning Glenorchy wilderness and LOTR filming locations.
Glenorchy Lord of the Rings Tour
Visit iconic filming locations with an expert Tolkien guide.
Gibbston Valley Wine Tour
Afternoon wine tasting in Central Otago.
Overnight: Queenstown CBD
The Milford Road
One of the world's great drives — Queenstown to Milford Sound via Te Anau.
Drive to Milford Sound
296km scenic drive via Te Anau. Stop at Mirror Lakes, The Chasm, and the Homer Tunnel.
Milford Sound Scenic Cruise
2-hour cruise past Mitre Peak, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Return drive or stay in Te Anau
Drive back to Queenstown or overnight in Te Anau for a more relaxed pace.
Overnight: Te Anau or Queenstown
Leave early — the road is spectacular but slow. Fill up fuel in Te Anau.
Departure Day
Last-minute Queenstown experiences before heading home.
TSS Earnslaw Cruise
A gentle farewell cruise on the vintage steamship.
Depart Queenstown
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Overnight: Departure
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
November to April for the best driving conditions on the Milford Road.
Budget Estimate
Approximately $2,500–3,500 per person for 5 days.
Insider Tips
- ✦ The Milford Road can close in winter — check conditions at milfordroad.com
- ✦ Book Milford Sound cruises early in peak season
- ✦ Consider a scenic flight one way if budget allows