Tasmania Travelers Recommend

Three days in Hobart offer plenty of time to experience Tasmania’s historic sites, natural wonders, and delicious cuisine. Take advantage of money-saving combo deals and sightseeing passes, spend longer at the sights that interest you most, and customize your itinerary to suit your interests. Here are some ideas.

Day 1: Sightseeing in the City

A hop-on hop-off bus tour is a great way to get around, offering the convenience of a guided tour while leaving you free to decide where to go and how long to stay at each stop. Spot landmarks like Parliament House and Victoria Docks, hop off to explore the historic neighborhood of Battery Point, or visit the Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery.

Time your arrival in Salamanca for lunchtime and visit one of the seafood restaurants along the waterfront before strolling around Salamanca Market (Saturday only) or browsing the shops for souvenirs. In the afternoon, get back to nature with a walk around the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens or pay a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where the animal residents include Tasmanian devils, koalas, platypus, and wombats. 

After sunset, Hunter Street is the place to be, home to some of Hobart’s coolest bars and pubs.

Day 2: Mountains and Museums

The 4,170-foot (1,271-meter) peak of Mt. Wellington is Hobart’s most famous view point and affords stunning views over the city. For the most memorable experience, opt to hike to the summit or drive to the top, then take a thrilling downhill bike ride. Before heading back to the city, make a stop at the Cascade Brewery, where you can enjoy a beer at Tasmania’s oldest brewery.

Spend the afternoon at one of Hobart’s other top attractions, the MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). Tickets include a round-trip ferry ride across the Derwent River and entrance to the Moorilla Estate Winery, where you can enjoy lunch and wine tasting before admiring the museum collections.

Day 3: Take a Day Trip

The most popular choice for a day trip from Hobart is to nearby Port Arthur, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Tasmania’s most visited attractions. The former convict site is one of the most important and best preserved in Australia, and taking a tour offers insight into the country’s dark past. Visit the penitentiary, dockyard, coal mines, and separate prison; cruise around the harbor; then ride the ferry out to the Isle of the Dead, once home to the children’s prison.

Alternatively, set sail for Bruny Island, where you can spend the day wildlife watching, strolling along sandy beaches, and admiring landmarks like Bruny Island Lighthouse. The island is also a top choice for foodies as there are numerous opportunities to taste local specialties, including wine, whiskey, cheese, and oysters.

The island of Tasmania is Australia’s smallest and southernmost state, renowned for its wild landscapes, rugged coastline, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Whether you are sightseeing in Hobart or exploring off the beaten track—don’t miss these must-do activities in Tasmania. 

Explore Hobart

Tasmania's lively capital is the obvious starting point for a tour, and there's plenty to see and do in Hobart. Admire the colonial buildings along Battery Point, visit the busy Salamanca Market, explore the Maritime Museum, and, climb Mt. Wellington for an ocean view.

Take a Day Trip to Bruny Island

Less than an hour's drive south of Hobart, Bruny Island has long been a popular summer retreat for city dwellers, and it’s an ideal choice for a day or multi-day trip. Spend time hiking, fishing, or surfing along the coast; take in the views from the landmark Cape Bruny Lighthouse; and keep a lookout for native wildlife such as penguins, echidnas, and cormorants.

Cruise the Gordon River

Escape the beaten path and set sail along the remote Gordon River for a real back-to-nature adventure. The 117-mile (188-kilometer) waterway winds through Tasmania’s UNESCO-listed wilderness, passing ancient rain forests, the former convict settlement of Sarah Island, and natural landmarks such as Hells Gates.

See Historic Port Arthur

Uncover the truth about Tasmania's convict history at the island's most-visited attraction, the UNESCO-listed Port Arthur. Explore the fascinating ruins and interactive exhibitions of the former convict settlement, take a cruise to the Isle of the Dead, or brave a lantern-lit ghost tour of the notoriously haunted ruins.

Sample Australian Wine with an Ultimate Winery Experience

Discover the secrets of Tasmanian wine at some of the island's most prestigious wineries on a tour. Perhaps combine fine Chardonnay with award-winning cuisine at Josef Chromy Wines in the Tamar Valley or mix wine tasting and modern art at the Moorilla Estate, just outside of Hobart.

Three days in Launceston gives you time to enjoy a combination of activities that showcase the area’s natural and cultural attractions, as well as a day trip to one of Tasmania’s top destinations. Here are some of our favorite ways to spend 72 hours in the city of Launceston and the region.

Day 1: Check Out Local Attractions

Start your stay by visiting one of Launceston’s many museums and attractions: Learn about Tasmanian art and history at the Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery, cars at the National Automobile Museum, and seahorses at the aptly named Seahorse World in nearby Beauty Point. Avoid ticket lines by purchasing admission tickets in advance. 

For an introduction to Launceton’s great outdoors, head to Hollybank Forest Reserve, located about 20 minutes north of town. Explore this lush forest canopy on a Segway tour or treetops zipline course. If you’d rather get out on the water, try a canoe tour on the Tamar River or a Cataract Gorge cruise. Visit the Cataract Gorge on a twilight walking tour for opportunities to see native wildlife, as well as gain insight into the history and natural environment of the area.

Day 2: Discover the Scenic Delights of the Region

Look out on the hills, vineyards, and rivers of the Tamar Valley on a morning hot-air balloon flight. Some balloon tours offer a breakfast option after the flight. Then, see the area outside of Launceston from a different perspective on an excursion such as a river cruise, a wine tour of the Tamar Valley wine region, or an insider winery experience at Josef Chromy Wines. 

If you prefer to stay in Launceston, head to Penny Royal Adventures near Cataract Gorge to enjoy its many family-friendly activities, such as rock climbing, rope bridges, a cliff jump, and a ghost tour. Refuel with drinks and food at the on-site restaurant, tavern, or wine bar.

Day 3: Journey to a Natural Wonder

Opt for a day trip to one of the state’s most popular natural attractions such, as Cradle Mountain, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness Heritage Area and home to wildlife viewing and hiking opportunities; Wineglass Bay, a turquoise bay located in Freycinet National Park; or the Bay of Fires, where orange-colored rocks create a stark contrast to the white-sand beaches. As three of Tasmania’s most visited sights, these day trips can fill up, so book in advance if you don’t want to miss out.

If you’re moving on to Hobart after your time in Launceston, consider a one-way trip that takes you to Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay before arriving in the Tasmanian capital.

Two days in Hobart give you enough time to take in the city highlights and visit nearby Port Arthur, one of Tasmania’s most important historic sights. Plan your itinerary wisely to maximize your time and take advantage of combo tours and super-saver deals for great discounts on Hobart attractions. Here are some ideas.

Day 1: Hop around Hobart

**Morning:**A guided sightseeing tour or hop-on hop-off bus tour is the perfect way to explore Hobart. Jump off to shop for handicrafts at Salamanca Market (Saturday), visit Battery Point and Victoria Docks, or stroll around the beautiful Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.

**Afternoon:**Choose between two of Hobart’s top attractions. Either head to the 4,170-foot (1,271-meter) summit of Mt. Wellington for a stunning view over the city or visit the famous MONA (Museum of Old and New Art); tickets to the museum include a ferry ride across the Derwent River, and you can enjoy wine tasting at the neighboring Moorilla Winery.

**Night:**Continue sightseeing into the evening with a night tour of Hobart, and admire illuminated landmarks such as Tasman Bridge, Cornelian Bay, and Mt. Nelson Signal Station. End the night with a stroll along the picturesque harbor, where you can enjoy a seafood dinner or drinks at a waterfront bar.

Day 2: Visit Port Arthur

**Morning:**Learn more about Australia’s convict history on a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic site. See the penitentiary, dockyard, coal mines, and separate prison; hear stories about colonial times from your guide; and perhaps cruise out to the Isle of the Dead, once home to the children’s prison.

**Afternoon:**It’s possible to spend an entire day at Port Arthur, but adventurous travelers can also combine it with the natural wonders of the Tasman Peninsula. Set sail along the coast of Tasman National Park on a thrilling wildlife cruise and watch for seals, dolphins, and seabirds.

**Night:**Book a table at one of Hobart’s seafront restaurants—The Glass House and Aloft are popular choices—for dinner with a view. After enjoying tasty Tasmanian dishes and local wines, end the night with a drink at one of the many pubs or bars along Hunter Street.

A visit to the former convict settlement of Port Arthur offers harrowing insight into Australia’s convict history. The vast complex is now both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Tasmania’s most visited tourist attraction. Here are your options for Port Arthur tours from Hobart. 

Full-Day Tours

The easiest way to visit the Port Arthur historic site is on a full-day group tour, traveling by bus or coach from Hobart. Most tours include a walking tour of the sprawling open-air museum, taking in highlights of the Tasman National Park along the way. Expect photo stops at sites like Tasman Arch, Eaglehawk Neck, Pirates Bay, and Devils Kitchen.

Multi-Day Tours

With time to spare, a multi-day tour means you can explore more of Tasmania’s attractions, with an expert tour guide on hand to make sure you don't miss anything. You can combine a Hobart sightseeing tour with a day trip to Port Arthur; journey from Hobart to Launceston with stops at Port Arthur, Freycinet National Park, and Cradle Mountain; or set out on an epic 7-day island adventure. Most tours include accommodation, as well as selected meals, entrance fees, and activities.

Things to Know

• Port Arthur is located on the Tasman Peninsula, about 62 miles (100 kilometers) southeast of Hobart—about a 1.5-hour drive.

• Day tours from Hobart typically last between eight and 11 hours.

• Multi-day tours typically include accommodation, some meals, and round-trip transportation.

• Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as most of the tours are outdoors.

With two days in Launceston, you’ll have time to see the best of this riverside city plus enjoy a wine-tasting experience or outdoor activity in the surrounding region. Here are a few ways to create a 48-hour itinerary that suits your preferences.

Day 1: Local attractions

**Morning:**Begin your stay in Launceston with a visit to a cultural, historic, or wildlife attraction. Options include the Queen Victoria Museum, the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania, and Seahorse World—purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance to save time.

**Afternoon:**Head to Hollybank Forest Reserve, and explore the lush canopy on a Segway or treetop zipline course. If you prefer to be on the water, opt for a Cataract Gorge cruise or a canoe tour of the Tamar River.

**Night:**Learn about the area’s history and natural environment on an evening walking tour of Cataract Gorge, then unwind over dinner at one of the popular seafood eateries in town along the waterfront.

Day 2: Surrounding scenery

**Morning:**Treat yourself to a hot-air balloon flight over the Tamar Valley’s hills and vineyards to start your day on a high note. Some tours even include breakfast. If you’re on your way to Hobart, a 1-way tour from Launceston stops by top attractions like Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay.

**Afternoon:**Discover Tasmanian varietals on a tour of the Tamar Valley wine region, with transportation provided so you don’t have to drive between tastings. Experiences at individual wineries such as Josef Chromy Wines offer a more in-depth look at local wine making.  

**Night:**Make your way to Penny Royal Adventures near Cataract Gorge for drinks or dinner at the on-site tavern, restaurant, or wine bar. If you arrive early enough, take advantage of the complex’s family-friendly activities such as rock climbing, rope-bridge walking, and cliff jumping—or go on a ghost tour.

Among thousands of penal colonies established across the continent of Australia, Tasmania contains five that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Collectively they commemorate the British practice of deporting its own convicts (and other unwanted citizens) for unpaid labor in building the Commonwealth. Here’s what you need to know about these Australian convict sites in Tasmania.

Port Arthur Historic Site

Once known as the Island of the Dead, this isolated prison used to sequester Australia’s most hardened convicts. Few ever escaped from Port Arthur, which served as a labor camp for both men and boys. Finally closed in 1877, the site is now the most popular tourist attraction in Tasmania.

Cascades Female Factory Historic Site

The former disease-ridden Cascades Female Factory in Hobart, used as a workhouse for female convicts from 1828 to 1856, is now open to the public as a museum. 

Brickendon Historic Farm and Convict Village

The adjacent Brickendon and Woolmers Estates were farmed by convicts in exchange for food, shelter, and clothing, representing a prevalent 19th-century system of consigned labor. Both sites are now historical attractions. 

Coal Mines Historic Site

A forced coal-mining labor camp for male convicts from 1833 to 1848, Coal Mines Historic Site now lies in ruins near Port Arthur. 

Darlington Probation Station

The most intact of Tasmania’s 78 former probation stations, Darlington Probation Station on Maria Island was built by and provided shelter for convicts from 1825 to 1850. 

Strap on your walking boots and heed the call of the wild in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed wilderness of Tasmania. From bushwalking and wildlife-watching safaris to thrilling rafting excursions—Tasmania’s national parks are the perfect backdrop for an outdoor adventure. Here are five of the best national parks in Tasmania.

Mount Field National Park

Just an hour’s drive northwest of Hobart, Mount Field National Park is the oldest in Tasmania, and a popular choice for a day trip, made easy with included transport and a guide. Highlights include natural wonders such as Russell Falls, Lake Dobson, Junee Cave, and Mount Field itself, and tours often follow the Pandani Grove and Tall Trees trails, as well as visiting nearby attractions such as Bonorong Wildlife Park or Something Wild Wildlife Sanctuary.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Overlooked by the mighty Cradle Mountain, the Lake St. Clair National Park is a dramatic expanse of rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and wildflower valleys, and home to the Overland Track, one of Australia’s most famous long-distance hiking trails. Most day tours leave from Launceston, about a 2.5-hour drive away, and include guided walks through the park or the chance to spot native wildlife like echidnas, wallabies, and Tasmanian devils.

Freycinet National Park

The windswept beaches, pink granite mountains, and rocky coves of Tasmania’s east coast are at their most enchanting within the boundaries of the Freycinet National Park. Visit on a day trip from Hobart and marvel at the views over Wineglass Bay, Coles Bay, and The Hazards mountain range, or take the scenic route from Hobart to Launceston, stopping at the park, Cradle Mountain, and Port Arthur along the way. 

Southwest National Park

Southwest National Park is Tasmania’s largest national park and a big part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, sprawling along the island’s southwestern coast. The remote landscapes need time to explore, so choose to visit on a multi-day camping tour or fly in from Hobart and enjoy unbeatable aerial views of the bushlands, rivers, sea cliffs, and islets.

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

With four rivers—the Franklin, Gordon, Jane and Denison—flowing through its heart, it’s no surprise that Wild Rivers National Park is best explored from the water. Set sail from Strahan on a cruise (some with lunch of traditional Tasmanian foods included) around the jagged peaks, rainforest blanketed gorges, and historic islands.

Tasmania’s capital has it all—historic sights, stunning natural scenery, and lively neighborhoods—but with just 24 hours in Hobart, it’s best to focus on the highlights. Plan your itinerary wisely to maximize your time, or join a guided tour to ensure you don’t miss anything. Here are some ideas.

Morning: Visit Mount Wellington

Make an early start and head for Hobart’s most famous view point: Mt. Wellington. Known to locals as The Mountain, the 4,170-foot (1,271-meter) peak affords stunning views over Hobart, and a guided visit helps you save time and drive directly to the summit.

At the foot of the mountain, the Cascades Brewery, Tasmania’s oldest brewery, is a popular stop for refreshments before returning to the city to explore the neighborhoods of South Hobart. If you’re visiting on Saturday, Salamanca Market is a must, filled with art, handicrafts, and delicious foods. Even if you miss the market, Salamanca is the perfect spot to shop for souvenirs and enjoy fish and chips as you stroll around the harbor.

Afternoon: Sightseeing in the City

A sightseeing tour is the ideal way to take in the highlights of Hobart, but travelers who want a bit more flexibility can opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Perhaps stop at nearby Battery Point to admire central landmarks like Parliament House and Victoria Docks, or take a stroll around the beautiful Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.

Alternatively, pay a visit to the MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), one of Tasmania’s most beloved art museums. Reached via a scenic ferry ride across the Derwent River, the museum is a must for art lovers and is home to the Moorilla Winery, where you can sample Tasmanian wines.

Night: Hobart Lights Up at Night

Hobart’s picturesque waterfront and harbor are even more stunning at night. Sign up for an evening city tour and admire illuminated landmarks such as Tasman Bridge, Cornelian Bay, and Mt. Nelson Signal Station.

Back in the city, book a dinner date at one of Hobart’s top restaurants—The Glass House and Aloft both offer waterfront views—or head to Hunter Street, where you’ll find some of the city’s coolest bars.

With attractions that highlight the natural beauty and history of the area, Tasmania’s Launceston is a lovely place to spend an active day. Here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in this city located at the confluence of the Tamar, South Esk, and North Esk rivers.

Morning: Local happenings

Get acquainted with Launceston’s sights and scenery on a walk through the town center or along the waterfront. Then, hop on a Cataract Gorge cruise to take in views of Royal Park, the wharf, and the cliffs from the river—or check out one of the local attractions, such as the Queen Victoria Museum, the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania, or Seahorse World.

Afternoon: Wine tasting or outdoor adventures

Head to a nearby winery, such as Josef Chromy Wines, for the chance to sample different Tasmanian varietals. Some wine experiences include lunch, a walk through the vineyards, a special tasting session, or a behind-the-scenes tour. For something more active, visit Hollybank Forest Reserve, about 20 minutes north of Launceston. Zoom around the lush forest on a Segway, or admire the canopy from above on a treetop zipline course. If you’d rather be on the water, opt for a canoe tour of the Tamar River.

Night: Cataract Gorge

If you have time left in the afternoon, travelers of all ages will have a blast at Penny Royal Adventures near Cataract Gorge: go rock climbing, walk along rope bridges, jump off a cliff, or go on a ghost tour. Then, unwind over drinks or dinner at the on-site restaurant, tavern, or wine bar. Alternatively, explore Cataract Gorge on a twilight walking tour, learning about the area’s history and natural environment as you go.

Home to the famous Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park in Tasmania offers some of Australia’s best hiking opportunities. From short day hikes through rain forests and alpine heaths to strenuous treks to the summit of Cradle Mountain, these are a few trails you shouldn’t miss.

Enchanted Nature Walk (easy)

This short 0.7-mile (1.1-kilometer) loop begins near the park entrance and circles through moorland and rain forest, past waterfalls and pools, before returning to the Cradle Mountain Lodge. Interpretive tunnels along the way appeal to kids. The relatively flat trail is suitable for all levels.

Dove Lake Circuit (easy to moderate)

One of the most popular walks in Tasmania, the Dove Lake Circuit circumnavigates Dove Lake beneath the shadow of Cradle Mountain. Much of the 3.5-mile (5.6-kilometer) loop is on a boardwalk, and there’s only one short moderate hill to climb.

Marions Lookout (moderate)

There are a couple of ways to access the spectacular views from the top of Marions Lookout, each suitable for those with some bushwalking experience. The easier route passes Lake Lilla and Wombat Pool, while a more direct (and strenuous) path heads up the rough and steep terrain along the Marions Lookout Link Track. Both trails have some steep areas and take about three to four hours.

Cradle Mountain Summit (difficult)

Views in the park don’t get much better than from the top of Cradle Mountain, accessed via a 4-mile (6.4-kilometer) 1-way trail involving nearly 2,000 feet (610 meters) of elevation change. This challenging hike takes around six hours.

Overland Track (multi-day)

Perhaps the park’s most famous hiking trail is the Overland Track, a 6-day, 40-mile (64-kilometer) trek through the national park from Ronny Creek to Cynthia Bay.