Take an overseas trip without leaving Australia! There is no shortage of things to do on a Tasmania trip, and this travel guide maps out the best places to visit and sights to see.
No Tasmania trip is complete without a visit to the fast-growing capital city of Hobart. With its modern vibe and growing appeal to a younger crowd, Hobart has plenty to offer.
Take a walk through Salamanca Market, Tasmania’s most visited tourist attraction. Browse produce from local grocers, plenty of on-the-go food options, and handmade mementos from over 230 stallholders every week. In the future, live events and activities will also be available to market goers. While you’re near the market, visit the historic Battery Point suburb, only 10 minutes from the city centre. You’ll see charming 19th-century sandstone and weatherboard cottages, many of which have been internally renovated. There are also plenty of options for dining in this area, such as the Lark Distillery, which helped the whisky industry in Tasmania to flourish.
© Luke Tscharke
Must-visit Hobart attractions
No visit to Hobart is complete without a stop at MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art. Known for its eccentric exhibits, the art at MONA changes as the creators’ ideas change about what art is. There’s live music and places to dine, plus the thrill of not knowing when a new exhibit will arrive.
If you’re looking for an outdoor getaway within a busy city setting, go no further than Wellington Park. Right on Hobart’s doorstep, this park offers walking tracks, horseback and bike riding, and plenty of climbing options. There are also picture-perfect picnic spots. Mt Wellington, traditionally known as Kunanyi, is only a 20-minute drive from the city centre. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from a lookout or while hiking and climbing. Be prepared for the unpredictable weather.
Dining and accommodation in Hobart
Hobart offers plenty of impeccable dining options. Take a seat at the oldest operating brewery in Australia, Cascade Brewery. Beneath Mt Wellington, the brewery offers food and drink that is sure to appeal to all. For those with a sweet tooth, Daci & Daci Bakers has a lovely dining space for breakfast, lunch and tea. You’ll feel like you’re in a true European coffee house where everything is made from scratch.
For accommodation, try the Vibe Hotel Hobart. Brand-new yet situated in the heart of historical Hobart, you’ll experience modern comfort while exploring the well preserved Tasmania of days gone by. Another option is Wrest Point, where you’ll also have access to a casino, bars and other entertainment.
Curious about the other attractions Hobart has to offer? Take a look at our guide to Hobart.
© Poon Wai Nang
Plan the ultimate Northern Tasmania trip
Your trip to Tasmania is incomplete without a stop in Launceston, the gateway to the Tamar Valley wine route. For lovers of academia, make sure to visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG). The gallery has been adding to its collection since 1842 and offers a variety of temporary and permanent exhibitions.
For those who would rather be outdoors, Cataract Gorge Reserve is a top pick. Only a 15-minute walk from central Launceston, the Gorge looks down onto the South Esk River. There’s also a cafe, pool and a chairlift across the river, and no entrance fee.
Restaurants in Launceston
Back in town, there are dining options sure to appeal to all, from Indian to Chinese to local Australian gastro pub fare. For local produce, take a peek at the Harvest Market, open every Saturday morning. If you prefer to have your food delivered to you, Launceston has no shortage of delicious restaurants. The Black Cow Bistro serves premium Tasmanian beef, free of artificial hormones and antibiotics. Part of the Tamar Valley wine route, Velo Wines is only 15 minutes from Launceston. They serve some of the oldest Cabernet wines in Tasmania, and is connected to Timbre Restaurant.
Hotels in Launceston
Stay in the lively Seaport Precinct of Launceston at Peppers Seaport Hotel. Designed in the shape of a ship, the nautical ambience will delight guests. Popular with business travellers, Balmoral on York is a lovely option. You’ll be close to cafes, shops, and restaurants, with decent views to boot. The first capsule accommodation in Launceston, the affordable Pod Inn provides guests with a cozy and unique hotel experience.
© Matthew Donovan
North West Tasmania: leisure and wilderness
Visit the coastal towns of Burnie and Stanley when you travel to the North West. In Burnie, cheese lovers will definitely want to stop at The Cheese Shop in Makers’ Workshop. In Stanley, stop at the Highfield Historic Site to step back into the Regency era. If you’re feeling thirsty, Angel’s Share in Stanley offers world famous whiskies and spirits, produced right in Tasmania.
For the more outdoorsy travelers, head over to Lake St Clair National Park and Cradle Mountain. There are plenty of hiking, biking, and multi-day walk options available. The Enchanted Walk is short and perfect for all ages, and make sure to take the trail to Pencil Pine Falls for gorgeous views. There are several camping options in the park, and lots of spots to picnic. For those who prefer indoor dining, try the Highland Restaurant at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge. You can also find accommodation at the lodge.
© Lauren Bath
East Tasmania offers a peaceful retreat on your Tasmania trip
There are two must-see national parks in East Tasmania: Freycinet and Maria Island. Both parks offer lots of options for outdoor fun, like kayaking, swimming, hiking, biking, and more.
Freycinet has some lovely beaches, and Friendly Beaches Airfield offers sky tours of the area. When you get hungry, Freycinet Marine Farm has some great seafood selections, from oysters to salmon to abalone. At Maria Island, there are outdoor picnic and barbecue options for you and your party to enjoy. One of the accommodation options is the Maria Island Penitentiary; yes, you can stay at the World Heritage listed convict site! Both parks also have plenty of camping sites for those who don’t want the outdoor fun to end.
© Stu Gibson
Seafood and views in St Helens
Tasmania’s second largest fishing port, St Helens is popular for recreational fishing and for those who just love to eat seafood. Only a few kilometres away from the beautiful Bay of Fires, there are plenty of opportunities for amazing views and delicious cuisine.
Before you sit down for your meal, take a long walk (about 1 hour) to St Helens Point to see the mesmerizing views. Dunes, ocean, and fishing will attract all kinds of visitors, since there is something for everyone to see and do. Once you get back to St Helens, have a bite at Parkside Bar & Kitchen, or satisfy your coffee craving at Coffee Away. And when you’re ready for rest, accommodation is available at places like Sweetwater Villas or Bays Rest.
© Stu Gibson
The west region is a perfect stop on your Tasmania trip
Once the world’s richest mining town, Queenstown is a unique ‘moonscape’ of bare coloured conglomerate. Although mining has slowed down, there is plenty to do for curious minds. Take an underground mine tour or stop by the Eric Thomas Galley Museum. The museum displays aspects of West Coast heritage, from personal effects to gems and minerals to mining artifacts. Queenstown also features the historic West Coast Wilderness Railway, which runs 35km between Queenstown and Strahan.
Queenstown offers a variety of cuisine, from Chinese to Thai to local food. Try the Tracks Cafe coffee shop for a little caffeine buzz before continuing on your journey through town. For accommodation, try the iconic Empire Hotel, built in 1901 and well known throughout Tasmania. There are also nearby camping options.
The dark history of Strahan
Strahan has a fascinating history, one of rough convicts and tough pioneers. Nearby Sarah Island was once a notorious convict prison, and is a stark reminder of the brutal treatment of Tasmania’s convicts. Strahan is also the gateway to the World Heritage listed Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Visitors can see rugged landscape and excellent wilderness views from anywhere in the park.
When you’re ready for a bite to eat, try View 42° Restaurant & Bar. You’ll have an amazing view of the waterfront while you eat. For boutique accommodation, check out Franklin Manor, which is near to the Wild Rivers National Park.
© Alastair Bett
Make a trip to the Tasman peninsula
History lovers must make Port Arthur a stop on their Tasmania trip. The historic site, known for being an extremely well-preserved convict settlement, will be greatly rewarding for visitors. The Coal Mines Historic Site, northwest of Port Arthur, is where repeat offenders were sent underground to extract coal. It is a World Heritage-listed site and will fascinate visitors.
For those who like a lighter travel experience, head to the Port Arthur Lavender Farm. You can grab a bite to eat while enjoying the gorgeous scenery or take a stroll on the lavender trail. For accommodation, there are many camping options in the area.
Interested in seeing more of Port Arthur? Check out our guide to Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula.
© Rob Mulally
The islands of the Apple Isle
Quiet and endlessly fascinating, King Island is full of history and peaceful pastimes. Head to the King Island Historical Society Museum in Currie where you can learn about local shipwrecks and the ANZACs who fought in World War I.
King Island is one of the best places in the world to grow beef, and Meat Your Beef offers an educational farm tour for anyone passionate about food and animals. For those who like to be adventurous with their palate, check out The Restaurant With No Food, which has no established menu.
Escape to Flinders Island
There’s something for everyone to do on Flinders Island, which is home to less than 900 people. Guided tours by boat and foot are available through Rockjaw Tours. You can also learn about island history at the Furneaux Museum or Bowman History Room.
Although the island is small, there are plenty of dining options. Try Flinders Island Producers and Products, from garlic to coffee to hot sauce. For breakfast, brunch, and lunch, the Flinders Island Bakery offers sweet and savory items. End your night by returning to one of the many cottages or houses that offer accommodation, like the luxurious Palana Beach House. If you want to maintain the outdoor island feel, there are also spots to camp.
Looking to camp in Tasmania? Check out our list of the top spots to go camping in Tasmania
In search of the perfect romantic getaway? Try Tasmania’s Beaupre Peninsula
In the mood for a road trip? We have two guides for the trip of a lifetime through Tasmania
