Queenstown is famous for its stunning landscapes, adrenaline thrills, and a sense of adventure that’s hard to match. But what makes it even better for travelers is its diverse range of 2-day tours—perfect for squeezing the most out of your trip without rushing. Whether you’re a shutterbug eager to capture snow-capped mountains, a wine lover happy to pedal through vineyards, or a nature enthusiast ready for a multi-day scenic journey, Queenstown has options that fit. Our favorites include a photography tour that takes you to filming locations from The Lord of the Rings, a bike and wine adventure through the Gibbston Valley, and a multi-day tour that travels from Queenstown to Christchurch via Franz Josef. Each offers a unique way to experience the area’s natural beauty and local charm.
If you’re planning a quick trip, these 2-day tours provide a mix of spectacular scenery and authentic experiences, all with practical logistics that keep things simple. For those who want to make the most of their limited time, these options deliver in value and adventure—each with their own distinctive flavor.
1. Photography Tour from Queenstown to Glenorchy – 1/2 Day
This half-day photography tour is a must for anyone who loves stunning landscape shots and wants to learn how to frame them perfectly. Starting in Queenstown, you’ll head to Glenorchy, a tiny town famous for its film sets, ancient forests, and mountain views. The tour is led by Glen, an expert who shares tips on how to make your photos pop—whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or a professional camera.
The highlight is capturing scenes from The Lord of the Rings and Narnia, which Glen knows intimately. As you cruise along Lake Wakatipu, you’ll enjoy snacks and the chance to ask questions about photography techniques, especially long exposures and landscape lighting. Glenorchy’s surroundings, with their snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and native beech forests, are as captivating as they are diverse—perfect for creating dramatic images.
What sets this tour apart are the personalized tips and the chance to photograph iconic scenery during the best light. Reviewers praise Glen’s knowledge, calling him “an expert and a great teacher,” with many leaving with “cracking photos” and memorable experiences. The trip is suitable for all skill levels, and a tripod is available upon request.
Bottom Line: This tour combines expert guidance with access to some of the most photogenic spots in the region. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a quick, immersive photography session that rewards with memorable images.
2. Bike The Wineries (1/2 Day) – Quick Pedal to Pinot
For those who want a leisurely day combining cycling and wine tasting, this self-guided bike tour hits the mark. Your journey begins with a pickup in Queenstown, followed by a smooth ride along the Arrow and Kawarau River gorges to the famous Kawarau Bungy Bridge, home to the world’s first commercial bungy jump. After a quick thrill, you’ll pedal along the Gibbston Valley wine trail, a route well-suited for various abilities and bike types.
This tour includes mountain bikes and helmets, plus a detailed map and tips on the best wineries to visit. You are free to stop at different wineries like Gibbston Valley Winery, known for its wine caves, or Mt Rosa Wines, which boasts regional specialties in both food and drink. Enjoy wood-fired pizza at the Gibbston Tavern or a relaxing coffee break at The Church Cellar Door.
Guests love the flexibility and scenic route, with many praising the ease of riding and the chance to sample local wines. One reviewer says, “Very much recommended,” while others note that some parts can be a bit challenging for amateurs, so a reasonable level of fitness helps.
Bottom Line: This fun, active experience suits those who enjoy combining outdoor exercise with wine tasting. It offers excellent value given the included gear, transfers, and the chance to explore top vineyards at your own pace.
3. Queenstown to Christchurch via Franz Josef 2-Day Small-Group Tour
This two-day tour is a scenic journey from Queenstown to Christchurch, venturing through some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes. With a small group for a more intimate experience, you’ll travel across Crown Range to Wanaka, where the famous Wānaka Tree provides the perfect photo opportunity. The tour then continues past Lake Hawea and Thunder Creek, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.
On Day 1, you’ll visit the Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand’s oldest, and enjoy free time in Wanaka. The second day features a coach and TranzAlpine train combination, taking you through the Southern Alps to Christchurch. Along the way, you’ll see glaciers, lush rainforests, and mountain streams, making this a comprehensive snapshot of the South Island’s diversity.
Rated 5.0/5 by travelers, this tour is praised for its well-organized itinerary and personalized touch. Price-wise, at about $354 per person, it’s an investment in spectacular scenery and hassle-free travel. Ideal for travelers who want a detailed, comfortable overview of this region without the stress of planning each stop.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a guided, scenic, and flexible journey across the South Island with plenty of photographic moments and local insights.
4. 2 Day West Coast Glaciers and TranzAlpine Train: Queenstown to Christchurch
This two-day experience is for travelers seeking a comprehensive taste of the West Coast’s glaciers and scenic train rides. Starting in Queenstown, you’ll travel by coach and the famous TranzAlpine train, one of the world’s top scenic rail journeys, passing through lush rainforests, alpine zones, and rugged coastlines.
Included in the trip are shuttle transfers to the glaciers and one night’s accommodation—making it a seamless experience. Day 1 involves a scenic coach trip across the Haast Pass, with stops at key viewpoints and optional walks. Day 2 continues along the rail route, giving travelers time to relax and enjoy the incredible views of the Southern Alps and glaciers.
Rated 3.0/5 based on a few reviews, this tour offers a premium experience with comfort and flexibility. It’s suited for those with a bigger budget who want to see a broad spectrum of West Coast highlights without the hassle of self-driving.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for travelers eager to combine scenic train travel with glacier viewing, especially if comfort and convenience are priorities.
$1,498.99 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Queenstown 2-Day Tour
When selecting your ideal 2-day experience, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If photography is your passion, the Glenorchy tour offers unmatched landscape shots. For a relaxed yet active day, the Bike & Wineries provides a scenic ride with plenty of tasting stops. If you prefer a broader adventure, the Queenstown to Christchurch or the West Coast glaciers tours cover more ground and showcase New Zealand’s diverse landscapes.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the multi-day trips and popular tours, to secure your preferred dates and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Queenstown’s 2-day tours offer something for every type of traveler—whether you’re into photography, wine, scenic train rides, or glacier adventures. The photography tour is perfect for capturing the region’s cinematic scenery, while the bike and wine adventure combines active exploration with a tasting for a relaxed day. For a more comprehensive exploration, the small-group journey from Queenstown to Christchurch offers a well-rounded taste of the South Island’s highlights.
No matter which you choose, booking these tours ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on some of New Zealand’s most spectacular sights. These experiences are carefully curated to give you a taste of Queenstown’s natural beauty and adventure—without being overwhelmed.