Things To Do
in Tasmania
Tasmania is Australia's island state, located to the south of the mainland and surrounded by rugged coastlines and ancient wilderness. It offers a dramatic range of landscapes from pristine beaches and jagged cliffs to alpine peaks and temperate rainforests. Rich in Indigenous heritage, convict history, and vibrant arts, the island rewards curious travelers with intimate nature experiences and farm-to-table cuisine.
From Hobart's historic waterfront to World Heritage–listed national parks, Tasmania invites slow travel, standout scenery, and memorable meals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Hobart and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to get a sense of the city's vibrant atmosphere. Have breakfast at one of the local cafes, enjoying some freshly brewed coffee and delicious Tasmanian pastries.
Visit the iconic Salamanca Market, where local artisans showcase their crafts and fresh produce. Spend some time exploring the historic Battery Point, with its quaint cottages and stunning views of the harbor. Consider stopping for lunch at a waterfront restaurant featuring local seafood.
Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Derwent River, taking in the stunning views of the Hobart skyline. Afterward, dine at a top-notch restaurant known for its farm-to-table offerings that highlight Tasmania's culinary excellence. End your night by indulging in a nightcap at a local bar.
Travel to the historic site of Port Arthur, a former convict settlement nestled in a stunning natural setting. Begin your exploration with a guided tour that delves into the fascinating history of the site. Take a moment to enjoy the serene gardens and coastal views.
Spend time wandering through the ruins, museums, and exhibits that recount the stories of those who lived here. Don't miss the chance to visit the Isle of the Dead, where many convicts are buried. Grab a light lunch at the onsite cafe, featuring local produce.
As twilight sets in, consider joining a ghost tour to learn about the eerie history of the site. After the tour, head back to Hobart and unwind at your accommodation. Treat yourself to some local wine while soaking in the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a casual bar | $8-15 |
| 🧀Grocery staple | $4-10 |
| 🚗Short taxi or rideshare ride | $8-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class wilderness and access to protected national parks
- Exceptional seafood, dairy, berries, and cool-climate wines
- Compact, easy-to-navigate towns with a high quality of life
- Rich Indigenous and convict-history heritage
- Some iconic spots are far apart; need flexible travel planning
- Seasonal weather can be unpredictable; pack for rain even in summer
- Smaller urban centers may have fewer late-night options than mainland cities
- Limited rail options compared with larger cities
Places to Visit in Tasmania
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views over Hobart and the surrounding coast; best at sunrise or sunset.
Iconic crescent beach with turquoise water and dramatic light; sunrise captures are especially stunning.
Stunning orange lichen-covered rocks, pale sand, and clear blue water along the northeast coast.
Historic sandstone bridge with a charming river setting and colonial architecture.
Priest-like peaks mirrored on the glassy lake—classic Tasmanian alpine photography.
Dramatic cliffside photos with sweeping ocean views and dramatic skies.
Food in Tasmania
Tasmania Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh, sweet crayfish often served with lemon, garlic butter, or in seafood dishes; best found at coastal towns or markets.
Must-Try!
Bright, buttery fish prepared simply to showcase its terroir from the island's lakes and coastlines.
A popular Tasmanian bakery specialty with tender scallops in creamy sauce baked in a flaky pastry crust.
Desserts or ice cream flavored with Leatherwood honey from Tasmanian forests; a regional signature.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant weekend market in Salamanca Place, Hobart, with local produce, seafood, street food and crafts.
Producer market in Hobart offering berries, cheeses, honey and baked goods—great for a tasty, fresh bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common greetings include 'G'day' or 'Hello.' Be polite and respectful, especially in small towns and with Indigenous communities.
Tipping is discretionary; join queues politely and wait your turn in line.
Drive on the left; watch for wildlife on roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
Ask for consent when photographing people; be mindful of sacred sites and private property.
Safety
Tipping in Tasmania
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not required in Australia; most service charges are not included by default. If you receive excellent service, rounding up or leaving 5–10% as a tip is appreciated in fine dining or boutique experiences.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common. Cash is accepted but less commonly requested in urban areas; some venues may have minimums for card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours and mild to warm days (roughly 20–28°C in coastal areas); coastal breeze can keep temperatures fresh; expect holiday crowds in popular spots.
Mild days with turning foliage; great for hiking and fewer crowds; showers can occur, so pack a lightweight rain shell.
Cool to cold, especially inland and at altitude (Cradle Mountain can see snow); average range roughly 3–12°C; rain is common, so layer up.
Cool to mild with blooming wildflowers; a good time for coastal trails and wildlife viewing; weather can be changeable—layer and plan for sun or rain.
Tasmania at Night
Hiking in Tasmania
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Classic 6 km circuit with alpine scenery and reflective lake views.
Coastal hike delivering a world-famous lookout over Wineglass Bay.
Gentle forest boardwalk leading to cascading falls in Mount field National Park.
Coastal trek along orange lichen rocks and pristine beaches on the northeast coast.
Airports
How to reach Tasmania by plane.
Serves Hobart with domestic and some international connections; convenient to the city and major attractions.
Major regional hub near Launceston with good domestic connections and car rental access.
Smaller regional airport serving northwestern Tasmania; ideal for accessing the northwest coast and Cradle Mountain region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A distinct heritage with historical and contemporary communities and continued cultural contributions.
A significant portion of the population, contributing to a relaxed, outdoor-oriented culture.
Tourists and seasonal staff help drive hospitality and seasonal economies.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular spectator sport with local clubs and occasional matches across the state.
Common in summer and autumn, with local clubs and regional competitions.
Sailing, kayaking, and coastal fishing are popular along the island’s many waterways.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tasmania.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Tasmanian restaurants accommodate vegetarians; look for dishes built around legumes, greens and seasonal vegetables, and don’t hesitate to ask for meat-free versions or seafood substitutes.