by Zoe Ng
posted on 30 January 2025
It may be compact, but Tourism Tasmania proudly showcases Australia’s only island state as a destination with a remarkable diversity of stunning landscapes, from white sandy beaches and rugged mountain ranges to ancient rainforests teeming with unique wildlife.
Whichever direction you head in, there’s no shortage of things to do in Tasmania — hike through national park trails, explore the vibrant atmosphere of cities like Hobart and Launceston, or take an epic Tasmania east coast road trip to discover idyllic towns, historic sites and hidden coves.
Beyond its natural beauty, Tassie offers a true feast for the senses — indulge in the freshest seafood and produce, and savour award-winning wines, whiskey and craft beer, all wrapped up in the warmth of local hospitality. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation or a touch of luxury, Tasmania promises an unforgettable journey.
An overview of the 10 best things to do in Tasmania
- Hike through the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
- Explore Cataract Gorge Reserve
- Visit the Port Arthur Historic Site
- Take a trip to Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park
- Catch the ferry to the Mona art gallery (Museum of Old and New Art)
- Explore Tasmania’s Tasting Trail from Launceston to Smithton
- Soak in the sights from Kunanyi/Mount Wellington
- Take a trip along the West Coast with Gordon River Cruises
- Experience the rugged coastlines of Flinders Island
- Watch the finale of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race
What you need to know about Tasmania
- How to get to Tasmania:
- By air: Regular flights connect major cities on mainland Australia, including Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, to Hobart and Launceston in Tasmania.
- By sea: Take the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Geelong to Devonport across the Bass Strait — a great option if you want to travel the island by car. The ride typically takes around 9 to 11 hours.
- Best time to visit Tasmania: Summer is the most popular time (and the busiest) to visit, but Tasmania is a year-round destination with each season offering unique experiences like vibrant foliage in the fall, the “Dark Mofo” festival in the winter, and wildflowers in bloom in Spring.
- What you’ll love about Tasmania: Peaceful hikes through stunning national parks, scenic road trips along the east coast, wine tastings in the Tamar Valley, and the rugged landscapes of the Western Wilds. Plenty of fun activities and outdoor adventures for the whole family like exploring Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary or a night-time tour of the Port Arthur historic site. You’ll also find romantic escapes like Wineglass Bay, cosy boutique stays, and gourmet dining experiences perfect for couples.
- Driving conditions in Tasmania: Tasmania’s roads are well-maintained, but you might encounter winding routes in rural and mountainous areas. If you’re travelling during winter, be mindful of icy conditions, especially in higher altitudes. Parking is generally easy in towns, though more popular tourist spots may require some patience.
- Best vehicle to hire in Tasmania: A compact car is perfectly adequate for getting around most of Tassie. If you’re travelling with kids, a sedan or small SUV would be a more comfortable ride. If you plan to visit more remote areas or go off-road, a four-wheel drive is recommended.
- Accommodation and camping options in Tasmania:
- Budget: Tullah Lakeside Lodge (Tullah), Base Camp Tasmania (New Norfolk), Waterfront Lodge Motel (Hobart), Launceston Backpackers (Launceston), and Low Head Tourist Park (George Town) or check out our free camping guide.
- Mid-range: Hadley’s Orient Hotel (Hobart), Ikon Hotel (Burnie), Tasman Holiday Parks (St Helens), The Dragonfly Inn (Launceston), and Novotel Devonport (Devonport).
- Luxury: Horizon Deluxe Apartments (Stanley), Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge (Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park), Mandala Bruny Island (Bruny Island), Freycinet Lodge (Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay), and Waterloo Cottage (Hobart).
The 10 must-see things to do in Tasmania
Tasmania is packed with amazing adventures, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of good vibes. Whether you’re into epic hikes, exploring coastal towns, or indulging in seriously delicious food and wine, these must-do activities will give you a real taste of what makes Tassie so special.
1. Hike through the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
- Travel time and distance: The Cradle Mountain northern entrance is about a 2-hour drive (142 km) from Launceston, while the southern entrance is about 2.5 hours (175 km) from Hobart.
- Ideal activity length: A few hours to half a day, depending on the trail you choose.
- Cost: Park entry fees start from $29.10 per adult and $11.65 per child for an Icon daily pass (including shuttle bus ticket). Other park passes are available to suit your travel needs.
- Bookings: No bookings are required for general entry, but reservations are essential for guided tours.
- Best for: Nature lovers, avid hikers, and anyone looking to experience Tasmania’s stunning scenery.
With its glacial lakes, pristine natural beauty and crisp fresh air, it’s little wonder that the world heritage Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is one of Tasmania’s gems. The parks walking trails cater to all skill levels from the family-friendly Enchanted Walk to the scenic Dove Lake Circuit. For panoramic views of Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake, don’t miss Marion’s Lookout, a favourite among seasoned hikers. Keep an eye out for wildlife like wombats and echidnas along the trails!
The weather in Cradle Mountain can be unpredictable, so pack for all conditions. Summers are mild and ideal for trekking, while winter blankets the area with snow. Late spring to early autumn (November to March) is the peak hiking season, but winter visitors might be treated to a view of the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis).
Top stop: If you’re looking for a stay near Cradle Mountain, Eagles Nest Retreat offers a peaceful pocket of luxury tucked into the hills. Each villa is uniquely styled to capture sweeping views of Mt Roland, with floor-to-ceiling windows, private outdoor spas, and fireplaces that glow into the evening. Book an in-house massage, savour a chef-cooked dinner, or simply soak in the views — this is Tasmania at its most intimate: unhurried, personal, and deeply restorative.
2. Explore Cataract Gorge Reserve
- Travel time and distance: 2.6 km from Launceston city centre, it’s about a 10-minute drive away.
- Ideal activity length: 2–4 hours, depending on your pace and chosen activities.
- Cost: Free to enter. There are additional costs for rides on the chairlift or guided tours.
- Bookings: Not required for general entry, but you may want to book in advance for specific tours or events.
- Best for: Families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Affectionately known as “The Gorge,” this 5 km stretch of natural wonderland is conveniently nestled on the edge of Launceston. The reserve features stunning walking trails, lush gardens with free-roaming peacocks and wallabies, plus the world’s longest single-span chairlift with aerial views of the dramatic rock formations and the South Esk River.
Take a walk along the Zig Zag Track or the Cataract Walk, visit the iconic Kings Bridge or enjoy a boat cruise along the South Esk River. Don’t miss the stunning Alexandra Suspension Bridge for a photo-worthy moment with the picturesque gorge as your backdrop. The reserve is perfect for families, with plenty of picnic areas and a swimming pool to enjoy during summer.
3. Visit the Port Arthur Historic Site
- Travel time and distance: Located on the Tasman Peninsula, it’s approximately a 1-hour, 20-minute drive (90.7 km) southeast of Hobart.
- Ideal activity length: At least half a day to explore the site fully, though history buffs may want to spend an entire day
- Cost: Entry tickets cost $48 for adults and $23 for children — they are valid for 2 days and include a harbour cruise, a self-guided audio experience and site talks. Additional fees apply for tours.
- Bookings: Recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and for guided tours.
- Best for: History enthusiasts, photographers, families and anyone interested in an educational exploration of Australia’s past.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a journey back in time to Australia’s early penal settlement days. The meticulously preserved ruins and restored buildings of the Port Arthur historic site tell the stories of the convicts, soldiers, and free settlers who lived here during the 19th century.
Stroll through the expansive grounds with over 30 buildings, including the hauntingly beautiful Separate Prison, the Commandant’s House, and the iconic Penitentiary. Guided tours and interactive displays add depth, while the harbour cruise reveals stunning views of Mason Cove and the Isle of the Dead. Don’t miss the after-dark ghost tour, a unique 90-minute, lantern-lit experience complete with eerie tales of this historic site.
4. Take a trip to Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park
- Travel time and distance: Freycinet National Park is located on Tasmania’s east coast, about 194 km (2.5-hour drive) northeast of Hobart, and 177 km (2-hour drive) southeast of Launceston.
- Ideal activity length: 3–5 hours to hike and enjoy the views, or a full day if you want to explore the entire Freycinet Peninsula.
- Cost: A park pass starts from $46.60 for a 24-hour vehicle pass. Other park passes are available to suit your travel needs.
- Bookings: Not required for entry, but accommodation and guided tours should be booked in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Best for: Nature enthusiasts, hikers, photographers, and couples looking for a romantic escape.
The pristine Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park is Tasmania’s most famous beach and a quintessential Tassie experience. This white sand beach with its turquoise waters is one of the most photographed locations in Australia, with good reason!
If you want the best views of the crescent-shaped bay and the Freycinet Peninsula, head on a 40-minute trek to Wineglass Bay Lookout. It’s a longer hike down to the bay but well worth it for a chance to relax on the secluded beach or swim in its crystal-clear waters. The Freycinet Peninsula also has other stunning trails like the Hazards Beach Circuit and activities like kayaking and wildlife spotting.
5. Catch the ferry to the MONA art gallery (Museum of Old and New Art)
- Travel time and distance: 20-minute drive (11.7 km) from Hobart city centre or a 30-minute ferry ride departing from Brooke Street Pier (accessible parking is available close to Brooke Street Pier on Franklin Wharf, Salamanca Place and Castray Esplanade).
- Ideal activity length: 3–4 hours.
- Cost: General entry costs $39 for adults and $17 for children aged 12–17. Ferry fares start from $28.
- Bookings: It’s recommended to book ferry and museum tickets in advance, especially during peak times.
- Best for: Art enthusiasts, culture buffs, and anyone looking for a unique experience.
MONA is not your average art gallery — it’s an eccentric and mind-bending experience that’s been dubbed a “subversive Disneyland for adults.” As Australia’s largest privately-owned museum, MONA is a must-see for anyone visiting Tasmania. The journey begins with a scenic ferry ride up the Derwent River, where you can relax on the deck or splurge on Posh Pit tickets for premium seating and complimentary drinks.
Inside, MONA showcases an eclectic collection of ancient artefacts and provocatively weird contemporary pieces, along with an entire underground labyrinth of galleries to explore. It’s also home to one of the largest collections of artworks by world-famous light artist James Turrell south of the equator. The museum also features bars, cafes, and a stunning vineyard on-site, making it a perfect spot to spend a leisurely afternoon.
6. Explore Tasmania’s Tasting Trail from Launceston to Smithton
- Travel time and distance: About 2 hours, 40 minutes drive time (about 230 km) from Launceston in northern Tasmania to Smithton in the north-west.
- Ideal activity length: 2–3 days, depending on how many stops you want to make.
- Cost: Varies by destination and tastings. Some stops offer free samples, while others charge for guided tastings or tours.
- Bookings: Recommended for popular spots like wineries or cheesemakers, especially during high season.
- Best for: Foodies, road trippers, and anyone who loves indulging in fresh, local produce.
Tasmania’s Tasting Trail from Launceston to Smithton is a foodie’s paradise, weaving through charming towns and countryside bursting with local flavours. You’ll encounter everything from award-winning cheese and creamy chocolates, fresh fruits and honey, to crisp ciders and cool-climate wines. Stop by Pyengana Dairy for their famous clothbound cheddar, enjoy fresh oysters at Tarkine Fresh, or sip on a pint at Seven Sheds Brewery.
Many producers along the trail offer behind-the-scenes tours, so you can learn how these delicacies are crafted while enjoying generous samples. With lush scenery as your backdrop, this is more than just a tasting journey — it’s a feast for the senses that showcases the best of Tasmania’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re filling up your picnic basket or just sampling along the way, the Tasting Trail is the ultimate gourmet adventure.
7. Soak in the sights from Kunanyi/Mount Wellington
- Travel time and distance: About a 35-minute drive (20.5 km) from the Hobart city centre.
- Ideal activity length: 1–2 hours, or longer if you’re hiking or biking.
- Cost: Free entry. Guided tours and bike rentals will incur fees.
- Bookings: Not required, but guided tours or mountain biking rentals may need prior arrangements.
- Best for: Nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone chasing incredible panoramic views.
Kunanyi, or Mount Wellington, offers some of the best views of Tasmania’s natural beauty, from the sparkling Derwent River to Hobart’s vibrant cityscape and beyond into the Tasmanian Wilderness. The summit, standing at 1,271 metres, is accessible via Pinnacle Road — a winding journey that’s half the fun! Once you’re at the top, step onto the viewing platform for breathtaking 360-degree vistas, perfect for capturing that postcard-worthy shot.
Adventure enthusiasts will love the mountain’s network of trails, ranging from gentle hikes through lush bushland to adrenaline-pumping mountain biking routes. The Pipeline Track is a favourite for walkers, while riders can test their skills on the North-South Track. Be sure to dress warmly — the peak can be surprisingly chilly, even on sunny days.
8. Take a trip along the West Coast with Gordon River Cruises
- Travel time and distance: About a 4.5-hour drive (301 km) from Hobart to the Strahan waterfront at 24 The Esplanade.
- Ideal activity length: 6 hours
- Cost: Ticket fares start from $155 for adults, and $75 for children (3–16 years).
- Bookings: Essential.
- Best for: Nature lovers, maritime history enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique way to explore Tasmania’s wild beauty.
A Gordon River Cruise is your ticket to experiencing the heart of Tasmania’s west coast, and a World Heritage-listed wilderness brimming with abundant wildlife, wild rivers and fascinating history. The journey begins at the notorious Hells Gates and makes its way across Macquarie Harbour into the Gordon River. Stretch your legs at Heritage Island where you can walk through the tall trees of the rainforest, and get a glimpse into Tasmania’s maritime history by exploring the ruins of the former penal colony on Sarah Island.
The cruise includes onboard guides and colourful characters with stories to tell, plus a buffet lunch with the chance to sample local produce and sparkling wines. The experience is as much a culinary delight as it is a visual one.
9. Experience the rugged coastlines of Flinders Island
- Travel time and distance: About 11 hours drive from Launceston, including a 7-hour ferry ride via Bass Strait Freight from Bridport, a 35-minute flight from Launceston, or an hour flight from Hobart.
- Ideal activity length: 2–3 days to fully explore.
- Cost: About $89 to ferry your vehicle one-way across while return flights start from $450 from Launceston and $950 from Hobart.
- Bookings: Travel and accommodation should be booked in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Best for: Adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a remote island getaway.
The remoteness of Flinders Island makes it perfect for slowing down and connecting with nature. Trek up Mount Strzelecki for panoramic views of the island’s windswept beaches and granite peaks, or stroll along the pristine sands of Trousers Point. Don’t miss a visit to the Furneaux Museum and a chance to reflect on the island’s Aboriginal history at Wybalenna.
Whether you’re exploring tranquil rivers, hiking through the wilderness or meeting the island’s friendly locals, this is a road trip-worthy destination. It’s also a hotspot for local seafood, with fresh crayfish and abalone being must-tries.
It’s worth noting that there’s no public transport on the island — renting a car or ferrying your vehicle over would be the best way to get around.
10. Watch the finale of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race
- Travel time and distance: The race’s finish line is at Constitution Dock on Franklin Wharf, a 10-minute drive from Hobart city centre.
- Ideal activity length: 2–4 hours, depending on when the leading yachts arrive and how long you’d like to soak in the atmosphere.
- Cost: Free to watch from the waterfront. Ticketed VIP packages and hospitality options are available for a more exclusive experience.
- Bookings: No bookings are required for general viewing, but VIP experiences often sell out in advance.
- Best for: Sailing enthusiasts, families, groups, and anyone who loves festive energy.
Every year on Boxing Day, the 630 nautical mile Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race kicks off, drawing sailors and spectators from around the world to this challenging feat. Within 48 hours, Hobart transforms into a hub of excitement as the yachts cross the finish line in one of the most anticipated events of the year.
Head to Mount Nelson Signal Station, Alexandra Battery Park or Princes Park for the best views or make your way to Constitution Dock, where the race’s finish line buzzes with celebration. Expect lively festivities, local food and drink stalls, and a chance to chat with the crew about their incredible journey.
Exploring Tasmania: Your complete guide to what to do in Tassie
Ready to dive into more things to do in Tasmania? From hidden gems to bucket-list experiences, here are more ways to explore everything Tassie has to offer.
Unique things to do in Tasmania
Tasmania is full of unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else — here are some of the best!
- Chase the Aurora Australis: Tasmania’s southern location makes it one of the best places in Australia to spot the magical Southern Lights. Head to South Arm Peninsula, Cockle Creek, or Bruny Island for your best chance.
- Experience a floating sauna in Lake Derby: Unwind in this unique floating wood-fired sauna, combining relaxation with stunning views of the surrounding Derby wilderness. It’s the perfect way to recharge after a day of mountain biking.
- Climb ‘The Nut’ in Stanley: Tackle the steep climb or take the chairlift up this ancient volcanic plug for sweeping views of the northwest coastline. Once at the top, enjoy the scenic loop walk and snap some memorable photos.
Things to do in Tasmania for families
Looking for activities that are fun for all ages? Here are a few options to keep the whole family entertained.
- Visit Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs: Discover the fascinating world of these massive underground limestone caves, then relax in the warm thermal pool surrounded by forest. It’s an all-in-one adventure and retreat.
- Take a ride on the Don River Railway: Hop aboard this historic steam train in Devonport for a charming ride through scenic countryside. Kids will love the old-fashioned carriages and railway museum.
- Explore Tasmania’s Wildlife Parks: Get up close with Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, and wombats at places like Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and the Tasmanian Zoo — a great way to get acquainted with Tasmania’s unique animals.
Free things to do in Tasmania
Travelling on a budget? Here are some top-notch activities to experience Tasmania’s incredible beauty and charm that won’t cost a cent.
- Explore the Battery Point Sculpture Trail: Wander through Hobart’s historic streets while following this quirky art trail, filled with sculptures that tell the stories of the area’s maritime history.
- See the Bay of Fires: Visit this stunning stretch of coastline on the east coast, famous for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and striking orange-hued boulders. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or beach stroll.
- Venture to Boat Harbour in North West Tasmania: Discover one of the state’s most picturesque coastal gems, with turquoise waters, golden sands, and a tranquil vibe that’s ideal for a relaxing day out.
Explore Tasmania by car.
Whether you’re navigating the winding roads through Mount Field National Park, cruising along Coles Bay, or taking in the views of Tamar Valley, Turo has the perfect ride for your road trip. Zip through city streets in a compact car, tackle remote destinations in a four-wheel drive, or travel with family in a comfortable SUV — all at your own pace! Uncover the heart of Tasmania and start exploring with the perfect car hire on Turo today.
Zoe Ng
Zoe is a writer from Malaysia who now calls Sydney home. With a background in crafting engaging campaigns and writing for one of Asia’s largest airlines, Zoe loves creating compelling travel content and sharing her experiences and insights. When she’s not off planning her next big trip, Zoe enjoys discovering new food spots and living vicariously through Google Maps.
