Hobart, hanging out on the southeastern shore of Tasmania, is like that one mate we all have who’s got their own thing going. This capital city has a unique blend of culture, cruises and contrasts going on that makes it stand out from other cities.
There’s the wholehearted welcome by the locals, a cool cultural mixtape of old and new, seafood straight from the Southern Ocean, wilderness cruises and a wealth of colonial-era architecture. Each corner tells a different story and if you’re ready to put on your adventure boots, then here’s a lowdown of the top things to do in Hobart.
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
Hobart’s culture has everything to tickle your curiosity. This ‘cultural’ tapestry is exquisitely woven with fine threads of art, history and culinary creations. Here are some must-see Hobart attractions:
MONA: Meet Hobart’s very own superstar - the Museum of Old and New Art. This cutting-edge ‘museum’ sits right by the mighty Derwent River and is packed to the brim with crazy art from all eras. The building looks like it’s come straight out of a sci-fi flick, and every year it throws a shindig called the Dark Mofo, where the museum comes alive with art, music and a fair share of razzle-dazzle.
Salamanca Place: Fan of the ol’ ‘shop til’ ya drop’ motto? Then, Salamanca’s is the bee's knees. You'll find yourself surrounded by a vibrant arts and crafts market, not to mention the numerous galleries, cafes and restaurants that dot the precinct. On Saturdays, the Salamanca Market will be in full swing – from hand-made trinkets to farm-fresh tucker, there’s something for everyone!
Historic Sites: Being a city steeped in history, it's no wonder Hobart is home to a number of colonial-era buildings. Visit places like Port Arthur, which used to be a slammer with many a spooky tale, and Battery Point, a charming part of town with old-school neighbourhoods and quaint streets.
CRUISING EXPERIENCES
The proximity to the sea has given birth to a number of water attractions that are just as spectacular as the land-based ones. Let’s set sail and explore these waterways.
Bruny Island Cruises: Did you say ‘best day out’? Then, hop on a boat and head to Bruny Island. You'll see towering sea-cliffs, an abundance of wildlife like seals, dolphins, seabirds and more. Don't forget to indulge in the island's famous oysters and cheese – it’s a tradition!
Derwent River Cruises: For a more laid-back experience, hop aboard one of the many river cruises. You’ll enjoy the picturesque views of Hobart's waterfront, the Wrest Point Casino, and the backdrop of Mount Wellington. Sunset cruises offer a magical experience as the city slips into its golden cloak. There are also other Hobart cruises that take you along the D'Entrecasteaux Channel, a hidden passage dotted with little islands!
EXPERIENCE CONTRASTS
What makes Hobart truly special is the seamless blend of nature and urban life. Toggle between ‘em like you’re in an open-world video game!
Mount Wellington/kunanyi: You can’t miss this massive mountain right at the city’s doorstep. In just a short drive, you can go from the bustling waterfront to serene alpine landscapes. Scale the top of Mount Wellington for panoramic views of the city, the Derwent River and the Tasman Peninsula. The summit is also among the favourite spots to catch the Aurora Australis!
History With a Modern Buzz: Hobart’s got this incredible mix of age-old history and a colourful, modern vibe. You can explore historic sites like the Penitentiary Chapel or the Coal Mines Historic Site that are time capsules to the past. But then boom! You’re strolling through the city, it's all trendy and forward-thinking.
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens: Just north of the city centre lies a tranquil green oasis that perfectly weaves a lush landscape of exotic plants, ancient trees, themed gardens and scenic trails with the city skyline lurking in the distance. From the towering trees down to the Derwent River and a riot of purple and pink pansies against the sandstone, it’s pure eye-candy!
So, there you have it! Hobart knows how to keep things interesting with surprises at every turn. Whether you’re cruising along the rugged cliffs of Bruny, wandering through historic streets or lost in the dynamic art culture, Hobart is a place where contrasts really come alive. And the best part? You can explore all of this in one day!
There’s the wholehearted welcome by the locals, a cool cultural mixtape of old and new, seafood straight from the Southern Ocean, wilderness cruises and a wealth of colonial-era architecture. Each corner tells a different story and if you’re ready to put on your adventure boots, then here’s a lowdown of the top things to do in Hobart.
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
Hobart’s culture has everything to tickle your curiosity. This ‘cultural’ tapestry is exquisitely woven with fine threads of art, history and culinary creations. Here are some must-see Hobart attractions:
MONA: Meet Hobart’s very own superstar - the Museum of Old and New Art. This cutting-edge ‘museum’ sits right by the mighty Derwent River and is packed to the brim with crazy art from all eras. The building looks like it’s come straight out of a sci-fi flick, and every year it throws a shindig called the Dark Mofo, where the museum comes alive with art, music and a fair share of razzle-dazzle.
Salamanca Place: Fan of the ol’ ‘shop til’ ya drop’ motto? Then, Salamanca’s is the bee's knees. You'll find yourself surrounded by a vibrant arts and crafts market, not to mention the numerous galleries, cafes and restaurants that dot the precinct. On Saturdays, the Salamanca Market will be in full swing – from hand-made trinkets to farm-fresh tucker, there’s something for everyone!
Historic Sites: Being a city steeped in history, it's no wonder Hobart is home to a number of colonial-era buildings. Visit places like Port Arthur, which used to be a slammer with many a spooky tale, and Battery Point, a charming part of town with old-school neighbourhoods and quaint streets.
CRUISING EXPERIENCES
The proximity to the sea has given birth to a number of water attractions that are just as spectacular as the land-based ones. Let’s set sail and explore these waterways.
Bruny Island Cruises: Did you say ‘best day out’? Then, hop on a boat and head to Bruny Island. You'll see towering sea-cliffs, an abundance of wildlife like seals, dolphins, seabirds and more. Don't forget to indulge in the island's famous oysters and cheese – it’s a tradition!
Derwent River Cruises: For a more laid-back experience, hop aboard one of the many river cruises. You’ll enjoy the picturesque views of Hobart's waterfront, the Wrest Point Casino, and the backdrop of Mount Wellington. Sunset cruises offer a magical experience as the city slips into its golden cloak. There are also other Hobart cruises that take you along the D'Entrecasteaux Channel, a hidden passage dotted with little islands!
EXPERIENCE CONTRASTS
What makes Hobart truly special is the seamless blend of nature and urban life. Toggle between ‘em like you’re in an open-world video game!
Mount Wellington/kunanyi: You can’t miss this massive mountain right at the city’s doorstep. In just a short drive, you can go from the bustling waterfront to serene alpine landscapes. Scale the top of Mount Wellington for panoramic views of the city, the Derwent River and the Tasman Peninsula. The summit is also among the favourite spots to catch the Aurora Australis!
History With a Modern Buzz: Hobart’s got this incredible mix of age-old history and a colourful, modern vibe. You can explore historic sites like the Penitentiary Chapel or the Coal Mines Historic Site that are time capsules to the past. But then boom! You’re strolling through the city, it's all trendy and forward-thinking.
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens: Just north of the city centre lies a tranquil green oasis that perfectly weaves a lush landscape of exotic plants, ancient trees, themed gardens and scenic trails with the city skyline lurking in the distance. From the towering trees down to the Derwent River and a riot of purple and pink pansies against the sandstone, it’s pure eye-candy!
So, there you have it! Hobart knows how to keep things interesting with surprises at every turn. Whether you’re cruising along the rugged cliffs of Bruny, wandering through historic streets or lost in the dynamic art culture, Hobart is a place where contrasts really come alive. And the best part? You can explore all of this in one day!
