Hobart

Nature’s Wonderland

About Hobart

Framed by the mighty peaks of Mt. Wellington, the free-flowing Derwent River, historic lanes and colonial architecture, Hobart is brimming with culture, history and entertainment. There is absolutely no shortage of exciting things to do in Hobart, with cruising being a standout attraction for both tourists and locals, alike. This is a laid back city where you can have a cosy brunch at a charming neighbourhood, wander the tranquil streets, shop for souvenirs, visit a world-class museum, conquer the summit of a mountain and come back in time for a river cruise along the Derwent.

Hobart has preserved its history through convict-built buildings, historic sites and museums. Today, these are popular tourist hotspots! Join a bone-chilling night tour at Port Arthur Historic Site, watch a short film that depicts the brutal lives of convicts at a penitentiary chapel or check out an interactive exhibition at the local museum.

Explore places like Battery Point, Salamanca Place, and the Cascades Female Factory (where female convicts were housed) to delve into the city's intriguing past. Port Arthur is a World Heritage-listed site located on the tip of the Tasman Peninsula. A place that was once used to sentence Tasmania's infamous convicts is now a popular attraction among tourists!

The city offers a diverse culinary scene with a focus on fresh, local produce. Enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences, visit vibrant markets like Salamanca Market, and indulge in delicious seafood from the surrounding waters. Hobart also serves as a gateway to some of Tasmania's most remarkable natural wonders. From the stunning landscapes of Bruny Island and Wineglass Bay to the World Heritage-listed national parks like Freycinet and Cradle Mountain, there are endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

And thanks to its deep-water port, Hobart also possesses a rich seafaring tradition – sailing is still a popular pastime! Explore all this and more when visiting this iconic capital city.

Hobart Cruise Experiences

Derwent & Huon River Cruises

14 Cruises

From $28

See Cape Bruny Lighthouse on a Bruny Island cruise

Bruny Island Cruises

3 Cruises

From $155

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys

9 Cruises

From $135

Lunch Cruises

4 Cruises

From $55

Flight + Cruise Day Trips

2 Cruises

From $699

Dinner Cruises

1 Cruise

From $75

Featured Cruises

19 Cruises

2Hr Hobart Dinner Cruise

An unforgettable dining experience on Derwent River, complete with a scrumptious 3-course Tassie dinner, live commentary, and breathtaking views!

Duration 2hr

From $75

Signature yellow & blue boat to experience adventure of Bruny Island

ACGXTU1100

3-Hr Pennicott Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise

Join an award-winning wilderness cruise to discover towering sea cliffs, deep sea caves, the Breathing Rock and Bruny Island on an eco-friendly boat.

Duration 3hr

From $155

5Hr Peppermint Bay Lunch Cruise

Scenic cruise on a luxury catamaran followed by a regionally-inspired lunch at Peppermint Bay Hotel. Views of D’Entrecasteaux Channel & Bruny Island.

Duration 5hr

From $170

See All Cruises

Know Before You Go

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Hobart would be during the shoulder seasons of autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November). During these periods, you can enjoy pleasant weather, lighter crowds, and potentially more affordable accommodation options. However, each season offers its unique charm, so consider your interests and preferences when planning your trip.

Public Holidays

Sunday, 1 January: New Year's Day
Monday, 2 January: Additional public holiday for New Year's Day
Thursday, 26 January: Australia Day
Friday, 7 April: Good Friday
Saturday, 8 April: Day following Good Friday
Sunday, 9 April: Easter Sunday
Monday, 10 April: Easter Monday
Tuesday, 25 April: Anzac Day
Monday, 25 December: Christmas Day
Tuesday, 26 December: Boxing Day

Other public holidays declared by the state and territory governments:

Monday, 11 March: Eight Hours Day
Monday, 12 June: King's Birthday

Events & Festivals

Dark Mofo
Dark Mofo is a captivating winter festival in Hobart, Tasmania. Experience thought-provoking art installations, mesmerising performances, and intriguing cultural events.

Taste of Tasmania
Visit Taste of Tasmania, a renowned food and wine festival in Hobart. Indulge in gourmet delights, sample exquisite wines, and experience the vibrant atmosphere. Discover the nation’s culinary treasures and enjoy live music, entertainment, and a festive celebration of local flavours.

Salamanca Market
Salamanca Market is a top tourist destination popular for its vibrant and eclectic shopping experience. Explore stalls filled with local produce, arts, crafts, and unique finds. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, enjoy live music, and savour delicious food from various vendors.

School Holidays

TERM 1 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2023
Tasmania: 6 April to 25 April

TERM 2 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2023
Tasmania: 8 July to 24 July

TERM 3 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2023
Tasmania: 30 September to 15 October

TERM 4 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2023 - 2024
Tasmania: 22 December 2023 to 6 February 2024

Accommodation

Hobart’s major hotels and apartments center around Constitution Dock. Whether you choose to stay in the city center, near the waterfront or the surrounding suburbs of Battery Point, you’ll easily find accommodation that suits your budget and style. All you need to keep in mind – check what’s on before booking to avoid peak dates when the rates are high.

Some events in Hobart which may affect the hotel rates are Dark Mofo, Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race & Taste of Tasmania.

Dining

Hobart takes center stage in the thriving restaurant scene of the state. The city's top dining establishments skillfully blend international influences with a strong commitment to local producers. These restaurants showcase seasonal menus, featuring ingredients sourced directly from Tasmania's fertile land and bountiful seas. They offer not only top-quality cuisine but also a distinctive and inviting ambience, often with picturesque views of Hobart.

Transport

To plan your route, utilise either the Trip Planner tool or the Hobart Network guide, as most buses within the Metro network generally initiate their departures from either Elizabeth Street (between Macquarie and Collins Streets) or Franklin Square.

When it comes to ridesharing only Uber is active in the capital, alongside the local GoCatch. There are also hop-on-hop-off double-decker buses, which are perfect for tourists to see the city’s top attractions.

Hobart Tourist Information

Public Conveniences

Hobart maintains a number of public toilets and changing facilities throughout the city. You can find the public toilet map on the internet, which can guide you to your desired location.

Franklin Square offers free wifi-service to the public.

Shopping & Market Hours

Hobart’s art and culture is strong. Every Saturday at Salamanca Market, you can find the nation’s top artists, designers, and purveyors selling everything from trendy clothing to leather goods, handcrafts, photographs, specially-distilled gins & more. They also have great food!

For souvenirs that celebrate the nation’s nature and wildlife, head to Wild Island Tasmania, where you can find jewellery, paintings, stationery, clothing, and other products.

Medical Services

Major hospitals in Hobart are Royal Hobart Hospital and Hobart Private Hospital.
000 is the number to call for ambulance, police or fire services.

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