Queenstown isn’t just about adrenaline-filled adventures and stunning landscapes; it also boasts a lively scene for those who enjoy a good drink. The town’s diverse drinking tours showcase everything from local wines and craft beers to unique ice experiences and energetic pub crawls. What makes Queenstown especially appealing for these tours is its combination of scenic beauty and authentic local flavors—imagine sipping NZ wines with mountain views or tasting craft beer in lively pubs. We particularly like the Top Rated Afternoon Wine & Beer Tour (see details here), which offers a relaxed way to explore the Gibbston region without worrying about driving. Plus, with shared platters included, it’s perfect for socializing.
If you’re after a bit of adventure combined with your drinks, the Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Riding Trek (details here) offers a scenic horseback ride with stops at historic pubs—an excellent way to combine outdoor activity with tasting local brews and stories of the gold rush era. For a truly cool experience, the Minus 5 Ice Bar Experience (see more) transports you to an icy wonderland where you can enjoy cocktails amid carved ice sculptures. Whether you want an afternoon of fine wines or an evening bar crawl, Queenstown’s drinking tours promise something for all.
1. Top Rated Afternoon Wine & Beer Tour & Platters Included
This highly-rated afternoon tour (check it out here) takes you into the heart of the Gibbston wine region, famous for its pinot noir, or into craft beer heaven. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on small-group intimacy and the flexibility to choose between wine or beer tastings at three different stops. The itinerary includes visits to the GT Tasting Room, Kinross Winery, and Canyon Brewing, with tastings at each. A highlight is the shared antipasto platter at the final stop, perfect for sharing and soaking in the scenery.
The guide shares local stories and region history, making the experience both fun and informative. With transfers included and reviews consistently rating 5/5, this tour offers excellent value—around $133.55 for four hours of sampling and sightseeing. Suitable for those who want a relaxed, guided introduction to Queenstown’s drinking culture without the hassle of driving. The only downside might be that it’s limited to three stops, but the quality and comfort make up for it.
Bottom line: If you prefer a chilled, informative experience with food included, this tour hits the spot.
2. Cardrona High Country Pub Trail Horse Riding Trek (Intermediate+)
For those who prefer a mix of outdoor activity and drinking, the Horse Riding Trek at Cardrona (see more here) offers a 3.5-hour horseback journey into the rugged NZ countryside. The tour is designed for intermediate riders and above, but its friendly guide and well-conditioned horses make it accessible to most. The ride weaves through historic gold rush sites, cattle farms, and river crossings, culminating at the famous Cardrona Hotel, which dates back to the 1860s and is a true piece of living history.
Guests love the mix of stunning scenery, local stories, and the chance to trot or canter, making this a memorable experience. The tour includes free drinks at the pub, which is a fantastic reward after the ride. With consistently high reviews (5/5), it’s clear that participants appreciate the blend of adventure and relaxation. The $365.29 price covers the ride, history, and drinks, making it a bit premium but well worth it if you’re looking for a truly unique day.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for active travelers who want to combine scenery, history, and a cold drink in one go.
3. Queenstown: Minus 5 Ice Bar Experience with Drink Options
If you’re after a cool experience (literally), the Minus 5 Ice Bar (details here) offers a 1-hour adventure into a world carved entirely from ice. Dress warmly in provided jackets and boots, then marvel at ice sculptures, sculptures, and the icy bar itself. The experience includes two drinks of your choice, either cocktails or mocktails, served in glasses made of ice—all in a room kept at -5°C.
Guests often comment on how special and photogenic the environment is, and the drinks are well-curated. The entry fee is just $29 per person, making it a fun, budget-friendly option for a quick outing. The highlight is definitely the photography opportunities and the novelty of sipping drinks amid icy art. It’s a fun, short experience suited for those seeking something truly different from the usual bar scene.
Bottom line: For a memorable, Instagram-worthy activity that’s not overly expensive, this ice bar experience is hard to beat.
4. Queenstown: Ice Bar Entry with Warm Winter Gear and Drink
Building on the ice bar idea, the Queenstown Ice Bar (see more) offers a full hour in an environment filled with hand-carved ice sculptures and crystal-clear architecture. Included are warm winter gear—plush coats, gloves, and boots—to keep you comfortable while you sip a delicious cocktail or mocktail from a curated menu.
This experience is ideal for those who want a luxury touch to their ice adventure, with high-end drinks and a cozy atmosphere. Many reviewers note the beautiful ambiance and attentive staff. The $35 price point is reasonable considering the quality of the environment and the winter gear provided.
The ice shot luges are a fun addition if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s perfect for couples or groups looking for an atmospheric, slightly upscale activity that’s genuinely different from typical bar outings.
Bottom line: If you want a blend of luxury and novelty in an icy setting, this tour offers both with good value for its premium experience.
5. Queenstown: Twilight Wine and Craft Beer Tour
The Twilight Wine & Beer Tour (details here) offers a relaxed 4-hour experience starting in the late afternoon. It includes visits to three different locations, where you can choose between wine or craft beer tastings, paired with a shared antipasto platter. The tour travels to the famed Gibbston region, known for its pinot noirs and boutique breweries.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a leisurely evening activity that allows plenty of time to soak in local flavors without rushing. The reviews highlight its quality and the friendly guides. For around $128, you get a well-rounded taste of Queenstown’s vibrant drinking scene, with the added bonus of a late departure to maximize your day.
It’s perfect for wine lovers and craft beer enthusiasts alike, especially if you prefer a more intimate and laid-back atmosphere. The only potential downside is it’s limited to just three stops, but this ensures a deeper experience at each.
Bottom line: A solid choice for those seeking a balance of tasting, scenery, and socializing in a relaxed setting.
6. Queenstown: Ice Bar Crawl
For those who enjoy party-style nights, the Ice Bar Crawl (see more) combines Queenstown’s coolest bar with lively pub hopping. The crawl includes visits to five top bars, with free shots and pizza included at each stop. The tour is designed for fun, with games and prizes to keep the energy high.
Priced at only $23, it emphasizes value and entertainment. It’s a great way to experience Queenstown’s nightlife, especially if you love socializing in a party atmosphere. Reviews note the friendly guides and good vibe, making it a top pick for travelers looking for a lively, informal night out.
Keep in mind, this tour is more about fun and less about tasting specific drinks, so it’s best suited for those wanting to dance, play games, and meet people.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a fun, energetic evening with a focus on socializing and nightlife.
7. Queenstown: Craft Beer Brewery Tour with Lunch
Beer enthusiasts will love the Craft Beer Brewery Tour with Lunch (see details here), which combines visits to three boutique breweries over five hours. Each stop offers sampling of 13 different local craft beers and a curated lunch to match.
The guide, a local born and raised in Queenstown, makes the tour both educational and personal. It’s suitable for all levels of beer drinkers and those interested in learning about local brewing techniques. Guests praise the friendly atmosphere and the chance to handpick beers they prefer. It’s a good value at $108 considering the quantity and quality of beers and the included lunch.
This tour is ideal for beer lovers who want an in-depth tasting experience combined with a scenic tour of Queenstown’s brewery scene. The only downside may be the 5-hour duration for travelers with tight schedules.
Bottom line: A must-do for craft beer fans wanting a full day of tastings and good company.
8. Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour | Adults Only
This adults-only tour (see more here) offers a boutique tasting experience combining wine, gin, and craft beer. Starting at Canyon Brewing, you’ll enjoy a flight of local beers or wine, with stunning scenery as your backdrop. Next, visit Rifters Gin in Arrowtown for a small-batch gin tasting with botanicals from New Zealand.
Guests find the well-curated tastings and personalized attention highly rewarding. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours and costs around $164.39, making it a bit more premium but covering a variety of drinks in a relaxed setting. Many describe the guides as knowledgeable and friendly, enriching the experience.
Ideal for curious drinkers who want to explore multiple beverages and enjoy scenic views along the way. The small group size (max 10) enhances the intimate atmosphere.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, boutique tasting experience in Queenstown’s scenic spots.
9. Queenstown: Bar Crawl with 5 Free Shots and Pizza
The Queenstown Bar Crawl (details here) offers a lively, budget-friendly way to explore the city’s nightlife. Over four hours, you’ll visit five popular bars, receiving free shots at each stop and pizza to keep your energy up. The tour also features games and prizes, making it a fun, social night out.
At just $18, it’s an affordable way to experience Queenstown’s late-night scene and meet fellow travelers. Reviewers praise the friendly guides and lively atmosphere. It’s best suited for those who want a casual, social night rather than a structured tasting tour.
While it’s more about party than drinking quality, it’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience Queenstown’s nightlife with a fun group.
Bottom line: Great for budget-conscious travelers wanting a fun, social night out.
10. Queenstown Hop-on Hop-off Evening Beer Tour
Finally, the Hop-on Hop-off Evening Beer Tour (see more) provides maximum flexibility. Running Thursday–Saturday from 5 pm to 10 pm, you can hop off at any of the multiple stops, including Gibbston Valley Cheesery, The Winery in Arrowtown, and Canyon Brewing. This allows you to tailor your evening, sampling different local brews at your own pace.
With maps provided and drink discounts, it’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, personal experience of Queenstown’s beer scene. Reviewers love the convenience and variety, especially if you want to explore multiple venues without a fixed schedule.
This tour is best for independent spirits who enjoy choosing their own adventure and want to experience Queenstown at their own pace.
Bottom line: Excellent for flexible, self-guided beer tasting with the comfort of guided support.
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in Queenstown
Choosing among these options depends largely on your interests and travel style. If you prefer a relaxed, scenic wine or beer tasting with food included, the Top Rated Afternoon Wine & Beer Tour (see it here) offers great value. For those seeking adventure combined with drinks, the Horse Riding Trek (details here) provides a memorable outdoor outing with a pub stop. If you’re after something quirky and cool, the Ice Bar experiences (see more) are perfect for a short, fun escape.
For nightlife lovers, the Bar Crawl (more info) or the Hop-on Hop-off Beer Tour (see details) are ideal. Those interested in boutique tastings and premium experiences should consider the Gin, Wine & Beer Tour (check it out).
Consider your budget, time available, and whether you prefer guided experiences or exploring independently. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours during peak seasons.
Queenstown offers a diverse array of drinking tours that cater to all tastes—whether you want to sip wine amid vineyards, enjoy a craft beer in scenic breweries, or have a night of lively pub hopping. With so many options, you’re sure to find an activity that fits your style. We recommend trying at least one of these experiences to truly enjoy Queenstown’s vibrant drink scene—just remember, pace yourself and savor every sip.