Milford Sound
From sunset spots to wine country magic, here’s where to point your camera to capture the jaw-dropping beauty of Queenstown.
Let’s be honest, Queenstown offers an Instagram moment around every corner, but if you’re short on time and are looking to track down the absolute best views in Queenstown, we can help. Here are eight of the best Queenstown photo stops that will make your friends back home green with envy (or start planning their own South Island adventure).
Queenstown Hill / Te Tapu-nui
The locals’ favourite. Ask any local where they escape for views and they’ll point you toward Queenstown Hill. This moderate 2-3 hour return walk starts minutes from downtown, winding up to the iconic Basket of Dreams sculpture where sweeping Lake Whakatipu views reward your efforts. This location is not on the tour group itinerary, so you can expect it to be a whole lot quieter than other tourist stops.
Skyline Gondola & Bob’s Peak
The classic Queenstown must-do. This photo expedition adventure begins by taking the Skyline Gondola to the viewing platform, 450 metres above town. From Bob’s Peak, you can capture what many consider the definitive Queenstown shot. Lake Whakatipu stretches out below, while The Remarkables creates an incredible backdrop for family photos. This is a location that is incredible any time of day, but sunset is truly special. The evening colours put on a mesmerising show across sky and lake.
Milford Sound Scenic Flight
Views that very few get to see. While technically not a Queenstown view, you can access this jaw-dropper of a viewpoint from Queenstown Airport. Take to the skies on a scenic flight to Milford Sound departing from Queenstown for a view that is reserved for the lucky few. The route to Milford Sound takes you above Fiordland National Park, where you can catch a glimpse of hidden lakes and valleys and see how glaciers have formed the landscape. Combine it with a Milford Sound cruise and you’ll be coming home with photos from both water level and high above.
Ben Lomond Summit
The ultimate challenge for keen photographers. Ben Lomond separates the weekend warriors from the serious adventurers. This 6-8 hour return hike demands proper fitness and gear, but rewards you with arguably the region’s ultimate viewpoint. Up here, 360-degree vistas span the Southern Alps, Lake Whakatipu, and all of Queenstown spread out below. Without doubt, a challenging expedition but one that is truly worth it.
Bob’s Cove
A quiet treasure. Just 15 minutes from Queenstown, Bob’s Cove is a sheltered cove on Lake Whakatipu with gentle nature walk. Follow the lakeside track to capture stunning views of Lake Whakatipu or explore the remnants of a historic lime kiln. This tranquil spot delivers stunning lakeside beauty without the crowds.
Gibbston Valley Vineyards
Scenery is better with wine. Sometimes the best Queenstown views come with a glass of wine in hand. A short drive from Queenstown will take you to Gibbston Valley and its world-famous vineyards. This so-called “valley of the vines” is dotted with beautiful cellar doors and restaurants serving award-winning Central Otago wines. Eat, drink, and photograph! If you’d rather visit the vineyards without having to drive, you can join one of our small group wine tours.
Bennetts Bluff Lookout
A jaw-dropper on the way to Glenorchy. The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy ranks among New Zealand’s most spectacular routes—and Bennetts Bluff is the showstopper moment. You’ll know it when you see it: a perfectly positioned viewing platform overlooking Lake Whakatipu framed by the dramatic peaks of Mt Aspiring National Park. Pull into the car park, grab your camera, and prepare to be impressed.
Queenstown’s waterfront walks
Sometimes the best views are right in front of you. The beauty of Queenstown is that you don’t need to hike mountains or catch flights to find knockout views. Some of the most stunning perspectives are found right in the centre of town. From the lakefront or downtown marina you can catch views stretching toward Cecil Peak and Walter Peak with mountains stacked beyond. Perfect for that golden hour evening shot or romantic dinner backdrop—sometimes the obvious choice is obvious for good reason.
Pack your camera, charge your batteries, and prepare for views that will have you planning your return visit before the memory cards are full.
Ready to capture some incredible Queenstown views for yourself? Southern Discoveries offers Milford Sound scenic flights and Queenstown Wine Tours.
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