Queenstown Airbnb: 15 Magical Properties for an Unforgettable Getaway

written by local expert Jane Elmets

Jane always knew she wasn't destined for a desk job... She has travelled all over the world and is passionate about noodles, sloths and her hiking boots! When she isn't busy adventuring around the world, you can find her reviewing travel gear and dishing out travel tips to all the places she's visited.

Staying at a Queenstown Airbnb is definitely the best way to get a sense of this amazing town. Take it from me – I used to live there! 

Queenstown is a truly magical spot, surrounded by towering mountains and shimmering lakes. It’s also the adventure capital of New Zealand with paragliders soaring overhead, epic bungee jumping locations and more hikes than you could ever imagine.

But even if you aren’t a thrill seeker, you’ll find plenty to do here with a hip dining scene and unmatched nightlife.

To make the most of your time in this awe-inspiring destination, it’s worth booking an Airbnb in Queenstown so that you can come home to your own private paradise after long days of exploring.

Here’s a roundup of 15 best Airbnbs in Queenstown, all located within walking distance of town!

15 Best Queenstown Airbnbs

Check out our 15 top picks for the best Queenstown Airbnbs for a marvelous home base. 

Perfect Getaway in Paradise

Perfect Getaway in Paradise
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR, 1B)

Location: Gorge Road

Superhost: No

Price: $

While Queenstown can be pretty pricey, there are plenty of awesome budget stays, like this Airbnb!

Perfect for a couple of friends traveling together, this stylish apartment has a comfortable lounge with a leather couch and armchair, small dining nook for enjoying home cooked meals, and a simple kitchen where the magic happens.

The bedroom is set up with a queen and single size bed to accommodate whoever you’re traveling with, along with a large bathroom with a walk-in shower and complimentary toiletries. 

Sitting on a quiet side street near Gorge road, you’re within walking distance to all that Queenstown has to offer with this sweet little stay.

Why We Love It: Practical apartment offering great value. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “Had an incredible stay! Teresa was very helpful with everything. Would definitely book this apartment again!”

“We loved our stay at Teresa’s apartment! It’s a stunning place in a great location. It’s super clean and modern.”

“A nice clean apartment that is close to town but still quiet and peaceful at night.”

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In Town, Centrally Located with Views

Queenstown Airbnb in town with incredible views
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR, 1B)

Location: Off Frankton Road

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

Nothing says Queenstown quite like panoramic lake and mountain views, and boy does this Airbnb deliver. 

Located close to the lake near Frankton Road, you’re just a five minute walk to the Queenstown Gardens and a ten minute walk to the center of town. 

One of the coolest parts of this Queenstown Airbnb is that the host will set up the bed in whatever fashion works best for you. Choose between a king size bed, or two separate single beds to suit either a couple or two friends on holiday.

The modern kitchen is outfitted with luxury appliances and there’s a comfortable lounge with a small TV. If you want a better look at the views, step outside onto your private balcony to soak them all in!

Why We Love It: Incredible views with a balcony in a quieter part of town. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “It is clean and cozy with beautiful lake view. There was everything we needed. We enjoyed staying here very much. Highly recommend”

“Jay’s place was so so soooo much greater than we thought. Location was perfect (near to town) and the view was super super amazing! The whole place was so clean, kitchen was perfectly equipped and everything was just so perfect. We will definitely come back to Jay’s place in the future!”

“Great location and place to stay. Parking not so good, but Jay was very accommodating”

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Lovely Penthouse Studio with Stunning Lake Views 

Lovely Penthouse Studio with Stunning Lake Views
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR, 1B)

Location: Queenstown Hill

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

Enjoy a stay high in the sky at this Queenstown Airbnb. This is one of the most sought after neighborhoods in the area (it’s called Queenstown Hill), as the houses are upscale and the views simply don’t get any better. 

Wake up every morning in the king bed overlooking Queenstown Gardens, the lake, and surrounding peaks, and fall asleep to the glitter of the city lights.

This apartment has a studio setup, but the host skimps on nothing, as it’s outfitted with a massage chair, TV with Netflix, an ensuite bathroom with heated floors, and even off street parking under a carport. There’s also a little kitchenette with the fixings for coffee or tea.

While you’ll have to climb a steep hill when you’re coming back from town, it’s a small price to pay for these million dollar views!

Why We Love It: High end studio with million dollar views. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “Cosy place with awesome view. Location is great when u drive. Would definitely recommend to my friends.”

“Great view over looking Queenstown. Very clean and neat. Check in instruction was clear n hassle free. My Husband n I really enjoyed our time staying over. I post a video on my ig and people started asking me for the link to the apartment. Will sure recommend!”

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Traveller’s Haven 

Traveller’s Haven
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (2BR, 2B)

Location: Queenstown Hill

Superhost: Yes

Price: $

This stylish Queenstown Airbnb certainly offers some of the best value around. It’s a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment, ideal for two couples or a small family who want to be close to town.

You’ll be treated to magnificent views from almost everywhere in the apartment, with a massive deck and outdoor seating to enjoy them from.

On chillier days or during the winter season, curl up on the velour couch next to the fireplace or snuggle under the covers and enjoy the views from bed.

The kitchen is ready for any home cooked meals you may want to whip up, and the washer and dryer (along with heated towel racks) are welcome additions to the apartment.

Why We Love It: Lovely apartment overlooking town with an upscale feel. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “Nice, clean and stylish space. We had a wonderful stay in Queenstown. Near to town centre, great views of the lake in the balcony.”

“Was a nice and relaxing space to come back to after a busy day. Nice and tidy which is always a plus!”

“What an amazing place. Amazing views over the lake and perfect location to explore and experience queenstown. The fire place was an amazing feature. Everything we wanted and needed and we would definitely come again!”

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Hillary’s A-Frame in Central Queenstown

Hillary’s A-Frame in Central Queenstown
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (2BR, 1B)

Location: Queenstown Hill

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

Perhaps one of the most unique Queenstown Airbnbs, this A-Frame cabin in town looks as if it was lifted out of the woods and plopped in the middle of all the action.

It’s a five star stay for a couple or two, with a large bed under the angular roof topped with crisp hotel linens and a wall of windows to gaze out of. There’s a second, smaller bedroom with a queen size bed if you’ll have company at this romantic retreat. 

The home is quite spacious, with an open concept living, dining and kitchen area with Danish midcentury furniture and a tremendous amount of natural light.

Topped off with a modern bathroom and large deck, you may want to live here permanently! 

Why We Love It: Cool A-Frame with modern design and incredible views from walls of windows. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “A great little base in Queenstown. Only a few minutes walk from downtown. Not huge, but well laid out and has everything you need. Great outdoor space with amazing views. Clean, comfortable and recently renovated. The communication with Yvonne was great. Highly recommended.”

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5 Star Views 10 Minutes from Downtown

5 Star Views 10 Minutes from Downtown
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (1BR, 1B)

Location: Suburb Street off of Frankton Road

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

This bright studio is a splendid choice for any solo or couple travelers looking for an Airbnb in Queenstown. 

With a large king bed, lounge area and separate kitchen, this stay is as practical as it is alluring. The luxurious bathroom makes getting ready a pleasure, stocked with posh toiletries, lots of fluffy towels and even a hair dryer!

Though there’s lots to love about this studio, the stunning views are certainly the biggest draw. Coupled with a private parking space and thoughtful touches throughout the apartment and you really can’t go wrong here. 

Why We Love It: Bright studio with a deck and parking, a ten minute walk from town. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “My wife and I stayed at Kirsty’s place for two nights and absolutely loved it (: The unit is well-stocked with everything you need for a comfortable stay, and Kirsty herself was wonderfully warm and accommodating (and really responsive over text too!). The house is located just outside the town centre (no more than a 10-min walk), which means you get peace and quiet yet still the same beautiful view of the lake and mountains. No question that we’d definitely stay at Kirsty’s again the next time we visit Queenstown (:”

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Tops on Turner Street

Tops on Turner Street
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (3BR, 2.5B)

Location: Turner Street off of Gorge Road

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

For a top notch group stay, this townhouse on Turner Street is a superb option. It’s just behind town near Four Square, boasting epic views of the lake and mountains, like all good Queenstown rentals should.

There’s room for six at this two-story pad, with three cushy bedrooms and a pull out couch in the downstairs lounge. There are also two full bathrooms for your group to share, as well as a third toilet upstairs and laundry machines.

When you’re not catching some shuteye or exploring the town, kick back in the humongous upstairs living room, whip up a meal in the state of the art kitchen, or soak in the views from one of the two private decks. 

Why We Love It: Two floor townhouse with great views and room for groups. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “This apartment had by far one of the best views of queenstown. Amazing view from the apartment. It connects to the city center very well and is just 5-10 mins walk. The road has steep climb and most of the members would enjoy that little climb to go to house. Overall it was an amazing stay. Would love to come back and stay again.”

“This is a magical apartment, so close to the heart of Queenstown, yet a very private, outdoor deck, plus and upper deck with views of the lake. Enjoyed the sunset through the lounge window over the lake. Very comfortable with all amenities that you would want Highly recommended”

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Instagram Worthy Views 

Instagram Worthy Views
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (2BR, 2B)

Location: Hallenstein Street near Beetham Street

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

This Queenstown Airbnb certainly lives up to its name. As soon as you walk in the door, you’re met with the most breathtaking mountain and lake views imaginable, stretching as far as the eye can see. 

Tucked away on Hallenstein Street, you’re just a quick walk away from the best of Queenstown’s dining and nightlife, while providing peaceful respite from partying travelers.

The apartment boasts two spacious bedrooms, one of which has an ensuite bathroom, and a large living area with a private deck overlooking the water. While this is a great summer stay, it’s equally as cozy in winter with a wood burning stove and lots of extra blankets.

You’ll find the kitchen well equipped with what you may need for cooking, an additional covered seating area outside, and even free parking. Yes, this Queenstown Airbnb truly has it all.

Why We Love It: Most remarkable views with lots of outdoor space. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “A fantastic house in a great, handy location. Lots of space for the four of us. We lit the fire on our first day, which was very cold. Made the house feel super cosy. Paula was an excellent host and gave us very clear instructions about access etc.”

“A wonderful stay! The thought and care Paula has put into her home really came through. My family had a wonderful time :)”

“The title speaks for itself. I got many likes on Instagram. Stunning lake view and proximity to city center, much more than what we have expected. Stay here!!!”

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Queenstown Hillside Villa

Queenstown Hillside Villa
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (2BR, 2B)

Location: Queenstown Hill

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

Perched over town on Queenstown Hill, this Airbnb is one of the best for outdoor lovers. Just next to this rental, you’ll find the start of the Queenstown Hill track, one of the top hikes in town for rewarding views.

The interior of the apartment has a slight bohemian theme, with wood and white furniture, unique decorations and a modern alpine feel. Sink into the living room couch after a long day of exploring, and slide open the glass doors for a breeze!

For extra outside time, there’s super comfortable patio furniture on the private balcony.

This rental has two bedrooms and two upscale bathrooms complete with massive showers, high end toiletries and heated tile floors. 

Why We Love It: Airy apartment with a prime location for outdoor adventures and visiting town. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “Bridget’s place is really amazing and it grows on you. The apartment is cosy and yet has room for 4 people. There’s a private toilet in each bedroom and a washing machine and a dryer in one of the rooms. The kitchen is also filled with cookware so you can do your cooking if you choose to. The apartment is just 5 minutes away from the city centre, really convenient and uber cost us approximately 10 nzd to get there. You can choose to walk to the city centre and it would take you 15 minutes and you will need to walk down 2 hills.”

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Insider Tip: Queenstown is in a prime location for exploring Otago. Click Here to check out rental car options and get ready for some epic day trips! You’ll be surprised at how affordable it is.

Golden #1 on Adelaide 

Golden #1 on Adelaide
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (3BR, 2B)

Location: Adelaide Street off of Frankton Road

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

A completely redecorated Queenstown Airbnb, this stay is super central and right on the lake near Frankton Road. This is an all star position for enjoying town (a ten minute walk along the lake) or taking day trips, as SH 6 is just a stone’s throw away.

This apartment has everything a group needs to enjoy Queenstown, like three modern bedrooms, a living room decked out with comfy seating and a fireplace, and even an outdoor table for dining al fresco.

You’ll find a totally stocked kitchen, as well as two contemporary bathrooms and even laundry! Plus, the floor to ceiling corner windows offer the best view of sunset in Queenstown. 

Why We Love It: Modern and well located apartment for group stays. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “Excellent location and great value, everything clean and in good condition, would not hesitate going back.”

“Very well appointed apartment in great location just around the corner from town. Its an easy and pleasant 5-10 min walk along the lakeside and through the park into town. We found the beds super comfortable and slept very well. My family were super impressed that I found such a great place for us to stay! We were there in summer but it is also well equiped to be warm and cosy in winter. Highly recommended!”

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Stunning House with Magnificent Lake Views

Stunning House with Magnificent Lake Views
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (3BR, 1B)

Location: Queenstown Hill

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$

This Queenstown Airbnb is a true home away from home and will give you a taste of local life. Right next to Queenstown Hill and a quick ten minute walk from town, you’ll have a hefty dose of uninterrupted, magnificent views from this stunning house.

Each of the three bedrooms looks out over the lake and the deck is prime for warm, sunny days and the best photo ops around.

The lounge is full of plush couches and is lit up by the overhead skylights and massive windows, drenching the room in natural light. 

When it comes to eating in, you’ll be delighted to know that the kitchen has a pantry stocked with breakfast items, a drawer full of spices and snacks, and a fridge with the basics. Oh, and fresh fruit, too! 

Why We Love It: Full of natural light and little conveniences to make your stay pleasant… With an insanely beautiful view. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “It’s a great homely place that we fall in love with during our stay. Super cozy and clean! It’s also very sweet of Chloe and Chris to provide us with bread and milk during our stay. The scenic view from the balcony is definitely worth every single cent paid which we can literally sit there whole day, looking at the view. We definitely will come back to stay should we return back to Queenstown for our next trip. The late checkout was really a big saviour too! Thank you, Chloe & Chris!”

“Breathtaking views and very comfortable property. Great shower, comfy beds, well appointed kitchen and clean. Brilliant location – 15 min walk to the centre of town, bit longer on the way back (steep hill). Super easy to deal with Chloe and Chris – very responsive and very clear. Highly recommended”

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The Aerie 

The Aerie
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (2BR, 2B)

Location: Base of Queenstown Hill

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

A modern haven just outside of town, this Queenstown Airbnb is everything if you want to wake up and fall asleep to the best views around. 

This gorgeous corner apartment has floor to ceiling windows in the master bedroom that look out over the lake and mountains. There’s even a sliding door in the room with direct access to the patio for morning coffee or a late night drink.

The apartment as a whole is contemporary and fresh, with fun patterns, leather furniture and a gas fireplace under the TV. 

With an open floor plan, it’s easy to navigate between the apartment’s living room, dining area and kitchen, all of which are well stocked and ready for your frequent use. 

Why We Love It: Gorgeous corner apartment with floor to ceiling windows in the master. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “Apartment is in the perfect location with incredible views. Ideal spot for the month.”

“Jen is a great host and the place is outstanding. Epic views of the lake and town – the place is furnished well; very stylish. Thanks for a great stay.”

“Jen’s apartment was strategically located just outside of the crowded town centre, and offered a spectacular view from the balcony overlooking Lake Wakatipu. The Queenstown Hill hike is also easily accessible from the apartment, and it is highly recommended if you are looking for a short hike.”

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The Wheelhouse

The Wheelhouse
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (3BR, 3B)

Location: Lake Street / Hay Street

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

Full of timber and radiating alpine vibes, this Airbnb in Queenstown is a luxurious place to call home while visiting this special corner of New Zealand. 

It’s large, with a homey feel, able to accommodate up to eight guests across three plush bedrooms, all with ensuite bathrooms and doors opening to outside. The master even has a shower and a jacuzzi tub. 

This is the perfect home for summer or winter in Queenstown, with a big deck to enjoy during the warmer months, and a stone fireplace to gather around when the snow starts falling. 

You’ll find plenty of fun spaces to enjoy like an entertainment room, front courtyard, and a private sauna!

Why We Love It: Outstanding group home with lots of outdoor space and a sauna. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “THE PERFECT STAY!! Would absolutely recommend this property for the best time in Queenstown. The location is prime, you’re literally 2 minutes away from the main city centre with an array of eats and the waterfront. If you’re wanting to go on any tours – Crowne Plaza is right at the end of the hill so we were easily picked up for all our tours. Most of our attractions were a 5/10 min drive so it was perfect. The property itself is amazing! So beautiful and very clean. We enjoyed breakfast in the morning sitting on the beautiful balcony admiring the amazing landscape. Andrae was very welcoming and helped us with everything! Cannot recommend this place enough”

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Lake View on York with Spa

Lake View on York with Spa
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (4BR, 2B)

Location: Queenstown Hill

Superhost: Yes

Price: $$$

For the ultimate relaxing vacation getaway, it doesn’t get much better than this Queenstown Airbnb. It sits high on Queenstown Hill, providing picturesque views and an unmatched guest experience. 

This sunny home really excels in the window department. Everywhere you look, there are walls of glass allowing you to enjoy the stunning scenery no matter where you are. From the kitchen encapsulated in curving windows, to the floor to ceiling sliding glass doors, you won’t miss a thing at this Airbnb in Queenstown!

Aside from the show stopping design, this rental is outfitted with a large living room with a wood stove that opens out onto a deck, a spacious dining area, and four bedrooms with king, queen and single beds.

Though the windows and modern design of this home already set it apart from other stays in the area, the real cherry on top is the private hot tub overlooking the mountains and lake. 

Why We Love It: Modern home with heaps of windows and a private outdoor hot tub. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “Just an incredible place… So close to town ..,easy walk, comfy beds, great BBQ and the hot tub was just brilliant”

“We had great time in Amanda’s amazing house. It’s nice, clean and comfortable, big enough for the whole family, very close to town center, nice view. Everything is perfect for holiday. Highly recommend this lovely house.”

“Nice house, clean, well furnished with a very beautiful view. Good location in the city. Very well welcomed with Christmas gifts when we arrived. Thanks”

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Town Center Retreat

Amazing mountain views from a Queenstown Airbnb
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Type: Entire Home (3BR, 2B)

Location: Beach Street in Town

Superhost: No

Price: $$$

If you want to be smack in the center of town, this Queenstown Airbnb has one of the most central locations around. It’s right over the water on Beach Street, which means that anywhere you want to go in town is less than a five minute walk away. And best of all? No hills to climb!

The open plan living room, dining area and kitchen features wrap around floor to ceiling windows, providing unparalleled views of town and the Remarkables. Just wait until the sun hits the mountains… There’s truly nothing more beautiful! 

Exceptionally spacious and very modern, you can expect a spotless master bedroom with an ensuite bathroom and private balcony, a second king size room, and a bunk room for little ones or non-fussy guests.

To make your stay even more pleasant, the apartment is full of thoughtful touches such as coffee and tea, extra towels, toiletries, and even a private parking space for a single car. 

Why We Love It: Best location of all Airbnbs in Queenstown with an extravagant vibe. 

What Past Guests Have Said: “Great place to stay, right amongst it all. Owner is so helpful and checking in was as simple as possible.”

“What a wonderful place to spend time in Queenstown. The apartment has everything you need, is spacious, clean and ridiculously close to town. We had 7 people staying for 3 nights and it was a very comfortable stay. The parking was convenient and the washing and drying facilities perfect for our needs on a road trip! Highly recommend staying here.”

“Fantastic location. Impressive property. Comfortably and stylishly appointed. Amazing balcony.”

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✨The 1 Thing We Never Leave Home Without…

Travel Insurance

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Things to Do in Queenstown

While there’s certainly no shortage of things to do in Queenstown, check out these local Airbnb experiences for unique activities that can’t be found elsewhere!

  • Packrafting Queenstown: License to ChillThis off the beaten path adventure starts with a two hour flat hike through picturesque river valleys, waterfalls and glacier covered peaks. After a big lunch, you’ll hop in an inflatable raft to explore canyons and drift downstream. P.S., This is a great tour for solo travelers.
  • The Contemporary JewellerLearn how to craft your own piece of jewellery at a studio in Arthur’s Point. The activity typically runs from 10:30am – 3:30pm and includes lunch… What a fun way to commemorate a trip to Queenstown! 
  • Winemaker’s WorldGo behind the scenes at some of Otago’s finest boutique wineries. You’ll learn how grapes are grown, try wine straight from the barrel and learn how a vineyard runs and operates. With more than 25 different local wines to taste and lunch in Gibbston Valley, you really can’t go wrong with this unique, all day wine tour.
  • Hike the Back Country with Lunch – If Queenstown hikes are a bit intimidating or you’re simply looking for a break from the crowds, this guided tour is the perfect choice. You’ll take off into the back country with a local guide and enjoy a leisurely trek and lots of photo ops. There’s even a picnic lunch included! 
  • An Evening of IllusionDinner and a show, what could be better?! Illusionist Declan Wong will treat you to an evening full of homemade, authentic Chinese food, New Zealand wine and a magic show that you’re sure to remember for years to come… 
  • Wine Tour & Maori Culture – This Airbnb experience brings together two of New Zealand’s greatest treasures: local wine and Maori culture. This is a great chance to become acquainted with both. You’ll learn about wine, but also the most integral aspects of Maori life. You’ll learn Maori greetings, watch a Haka, and learn about the Maori impact in Otago stretching back several centuries. 

For more Airbnb experiences in Queenstown, click this link to see more options.

Packing for Your Airbnb

Before you take off for your trip, check out our Airbnb Packing Guide to make sure you don’t miss out on anything important!


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