Hobart is one of Australia’s most charming and distinctive destinations, known for its historic streets, scenic harbour, and dramatic natural backdrop. As the capital of Tasmania, Hobart offers a unique blend of colonial history, creative culture, and easy access to wilderness experiences.
From strolling along Salamanca Place to taking in panoramic views from Mount Wellington (kunanyi), Hobart combines relaxed city living with raw natural beauty. Visitors can explore heritage buildings, waterfront markets, acclaimed museums, and some of Australia’s best food and wine — all within a compact, walkable city.
Whether you’re visiting for a short city escape, a food and wine getaway, or as a gateway to Tasmania’s wild landscapes, Hobart’s slower pace and rich character make it a refreshing and memorable destination.
• Couples – waterfront dining, scenic lookouts, cosy bars, and relaxed city vibes
• First-time visitors – compact city layout, historic precincts, and iconic attractions
• Families – easy walking areas, museums, markets, waterfront parks, and outdoor activities
• Solo travellers – walkable neighbourhoods, cultural venues, food experiences, and guided tours
• City break travellers – ideal for slower-paced short stays with culture and scenery
Hobart offers a diverse range of experiences, from historic waterfront precincts and mountain lookouts to world-class art and easy day trips. These are some of the most popular things to do in Hobart and the easiest to plan ahead.
Hobart is compact, so you can combine a few major highlights each day without overplanning your trip.
Hobart has accommodation options for every budget, with different areas offering different travel styles and access to key attractions.
Hobart Waterfront & CBD
Best for first-time visitors who want walkability, easy transport links, and quick access to Salamanca, the waterfront, museums, and dining.
Battery Point
A charming historic neighbourhood with quiet streets and boutique stays, still within easy walking distance of the waterfront and Salamanca.
North Hobart
Known for its cafés and restaurants, North Hobart suits travellers who want a local feel and a strong food scene, with quick trips into the city centre.
Choosing where to stay depends on whether you prioritise nightlife and dining, historic charm, or staying right in the centre of the action.
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Hobart is easy to reach and simple to get around, with a compact city layout and clear transport options.
Flying
Hobart Airport is around 20 minutes from the city and offers regular domestic flights from major Australian cities.
Driving
Hobart is the main gateway for southern Tasmania road trips, with scenic drives to nearby regions.
The city centre is walkable, with buses servicing surrounding suburbs. A car is useful for exploring beyond Hobart.
Hobart is a year-round destination.
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Planning a trip to Hobart is all about balancing iconic attractions with time to explore at a relaxed pace. From wandering the historic waterfront and Salamanca Place to visiting cultural highlights like MONA and planning scenic day trips to kunanyi / Mount Wellington or nearby islands, a little forward planning helps you experience the best of Tasmania’s capital without over-scheduling your time.
Discover more iconic Australian destinations, from coastal road trips and city breaks to tropical escapes and outback adventures. Browse popular locations to help plan your next stop or build the perfect multi-destination itinerary.
Brisbane is one of Queensland’s most popular city destinations, and planning a visit often comes with a few key questions. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common queries about getting around Hobart, top things to do, and how to make the most of your time in the city.
Hobart is popular for its historic waterfront, vibrant food and arts scene, and access to mountain, coastal, and wilderness landscapes.
Top activities include visiting Salamanca Place, MONA, kunanyi / Mount Wellington, local markets, and nearby day trips.
Most travellers spend 3–5 days in Hobart, especially if including Bruny Island or Port Arthur.
A car isn’t needed for the city, but it’s recommended for day trips outside Hobart.
Summer and autumn are most popular, though Hobart offers enjoyable experiences year-round.
Yes—Hobart suits families, couples, and solo travellers thanks to its safety, walkability, and diverse attractions.
Day 1 – Waterfront & Historic Hobart
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Day 2 – Mountain Views & Gardens
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Day 3 – Art, Museums & Local Life
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Day 4 – Day Trip or Leisure
Choose how you spend your final day based on your interests:
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Three to five days is ideal for Hobart. Four days lets you cover the city highlights plus one or two day trips without rushing, while extra time is great for Bruny Island, Port Arthur, or a longer Tasmanian road trip.
✅ Book key attractions ahead in peak seasons
✅ Pack layers for changing weather
✅ Plan transport for day trips
✅ Allow time for markets and cafés
✅ Choose accommodation based on walkability
