🎿 Hostels in Queenstown: Lakeside Vibes, Thrill Seeker Spots & Cosy Cabins
Queenstown in 2025 is pure magic — alpine air, adrenaline adventures and hostels that feel more like mountain lodges with a global twist. Think shared fireside chats, snowboards in the hallway, and skydiving stories over free pancakes. Whether you’re here for bungee jumps, epic hikes, or a chilled lakeside recharge, Queenstown delivers good vibes 24/7.
👉 Not sure where to stay? Our Queenstown hostels include party-ready spots near the bars, eco-retreats in leafy pockets, and chill basecamps with hot tubs and lake views. Use filters or map view to find your perfect match.
🛏️ Where to Stay in Queenstown
With 15 hostels and over 1 verified reviews on Hostelworld.com, Queenstown is the ultimate hostel haven. Whether you're solo, road-tripping with mates, or mid gap-year, there’s a spot that’ll match your pace.
- Dorms with mountain views or ensuites with ski racks
- Communal kitchens, outdoor decks and Netflix lounges
- BBQ nights, bike rentals and trail maps at reception
- Epic social calendars: quiz nights, group hikes, pub crawls
💡 Pro tip: Stay near Shotover Street for nightlife, Lake Esplanade for views, or Fernhill for a quieter, nature-focused stay.
🥇 Top-Rated Hostels in Queenstown in 2025
Travellers on Hostelworld.com love these guest favourites:
📍 Neighbourhoods to Explore
📸 Top photo spot: Bob’s Peak at sunset (via Skyline Gondola) — bring a wide-angle lens and layers!
- Town Centre – Bars, backpackers, and that buzz
- Lakefront – Quiet mornings, SUP rentals and Insta sunsets
- Fernhill – Leafy trails and peaceful vibes
- Arthurs Point – Near the Shotover River, perfect for thrill-seekers
- Frankton – Great for longer stays and airport access
🎯 Best Places to Visit in Queenstown in 2025
- Skyline Gondola – For the best view (and luge rides!)
- Fergburger – Yes, it’s worth the hype
- Lake Wakatipu – Chill zone + sunrise paddles
- Arrowtown – A gold rush village with epic autumn leaves
- Shotover Jet – High-speed boat thrill through narrow canyons
💡 Pro tip: Many hostels partner with local tour operators — ask about discounts for skydiving, Milford Sound trips or skiing!
🚍 Getting Around Queenstown
- From the airport: Local buses (Orbus) connect to town for just a few dollars
- Walking: The town centre is compact — bring comfy shoes and explore
- Biking: Loads of scenic trails, and many hostels offer free rentals
- Local tip: Avoid taxis – walk or take the $2 Orbus around town and to Fernhill/Frankton
🧳 Hostel Life in Queenstown – 2025
Queenstown hostels are a mix of lodge-style comfort and social traveller buzz. Picture mountain views, shared dinners, gear-drying rooms, and après-ski stories from across the globe. Whether you’re nursing a hangover or prepping for a hike, your hostel becomes part of your adventure.
🔥 Pro tip: Use the Hostelworld App to connect with other backpackers before check-in, join hostel BBQs or hikes, and make friends fast in Queenstown.
💬 Why Queenstown?
With over 1 reviews on Hostelworld.com and hostels that mix alpine vibes with social buzz, Queenstown is the ultimate base for adventure and connection.
“The fire pit, the mountain views, and the pancake mornings – I never wanted to leave.”
— Hostelworld guest, Adventure Queenstown Hostel
🌍 Want More Hostel Adventures?
Explore hostels across New Zealand → New Zealand Hostels
