Catch the bus Queenstown to Franz Josef with InterCity. The journey from Queenstown takes approximately 8 hours, travelling through some of the most beautiful scenery in the South Island.

The bus from Queenstown to Franz Josef passes through Cromwell and Wanaka, with stops at Makarora and Haast, before arriving in Franz Josef at the bus stop on the Main Road.

Search for a bus to Queenstown to Franz Josef with New Zealand's most popular national bus network.

About Franz Josef

The small town of Franz Josef on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island is the perfect base to explore the world famous Franz Josef Glacier. 

German explorer Julius von Haast named the Franz Josef Glacier after Emperor Franz Josef I of Austria. Located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, it is approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) long and part of a World Heritage Site. Explore its spectacular scenery with one of the many local guiding companies or opt for a flightseeing tour via helicopter or plane.

The population of Franz Josef is approximately 330 permanent residents with upwards of 2,000 people staying overnight in the busy season. There are several accommodation options to suit visitors of all tastes and budgets and a few cafes and restaurants located in the small town centre.

Other things you can do after you've explored the Franz Josef Glacier include taking a Valley Eco Tour to learn more about the flora, fauna and geology of the region or participating in an awe-inspiring kayak tour or scenic boat cruise on Lake Mapourika. Alternatively, if you enjoy day long walks, take a guided walk though the Westland Tai Poutini National Park where you'll see lush native forests, sparkling lakes and old gold mining settlements.

For more information and ideas about what you can do in Franz Josef visit glaciercountry.co.nz

InterCity makes it easy to bus Queenstown to Franz Josef to explore the incredible Franz Josef Glacier. Take a look at the TravelPass and FlexiPass bus pass which provides affordable, flexible bus travel to independent travellers.