by Zoe Ng
posted on November 9, 2024
For a small riverside city, Launceston sure has plenty of personality. Located along the banks of the Tamar River in northern Tasmania, this historic city is a hub for great food, wine, arts, antique shops, and local culture, making it — in our humble opinion — one of the most amazing holiday destinations in Australia.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 10 best things to do in Launceston. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Launnie (as the locals call it!) has an unforgettable experience for every traveller. From wine tasting along the Tamar River Valley to hiking trails through Cataract Gorge, and family fun at the Grindelwald Swiss Village, get ready to delve deeper and discover the vibrant, laid-back town of Launceston.
A summary: The 10 best things to do in Launceston
- Explore Cataract Gorge
- Experience Low Head Penguin Tours
- Visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery
- Indulge at Harvest Market Launceston
- Tackle the mountain bike trails at Derby
- Venture along the Tamar Valley wine trail
- Visit Grindelwald Swiss Village
- Take a ride with Hot Air Balloon Tasmania
- Visit Josef Chromy Winery
- Sample sustainable local produce at Launceston’s fine-dining restaurants
What you need to know about Launceston (TAS)
- How to get to Launceston: Launceston is easily accessible by road, with the drive from Hobart taking around 2.5 hours and the journey from Devonport taking just over an hour. You can also fly in through the Launceston Airport, which has regular domestic flights from major Australian cities and is just 15 minutes from the city centre.
- Best time to visit Launceston: Launceston enjoys a mild climate year-round, but spring and autumn (September to November and March to May) are particularly pleasant for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions.
- What you’ll love about Launceston: Launceston has a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a laid-back lifestyle. The city itself is a charming mix of old and new, with historic buildings, a vibrant art scene, and a thriving food and wine culture. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a family-friendly experience, Launceston has something to offer everyone.
- Driving conditions in Launceston: Navigating through Launceston and the Tamar Valley is straightforward, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, but watch out for wildlife and be cautious along winding roads.
- Best vehicle to hire in Launceston: For the city and winding country roads, a compact or midsize rental car is ideal for easy driving and parking. If you plan on venturing off the beaten path and exploring natural landscapes, an SUV provides more room and ground clearance. For the ultimate freedom and flexibility to explore the Tamar Valley, try a campervan or motorhome.
- Accommodation and camping options in Launceston:
- Budget ($50 to $80 per night): Pod Inn, Lovely Budget Vegan Homestay, Nightcap at Riverside Hotel, Sporties Hotel, or have a look at some of the free camping spots around.
- Mid-range ($80 to $150 per night): The Dragonfly Inn, The Sebel Launceston, Peppers Seaport Hotel, or Hideaway On George.
- Luxury ($150 to $300+ per night): Alice’s Cottage, The Florance, Hatherley Birrell Collection, or Midnight Moonshine Loft.
The 10 must-see things to do in Launceston
From outdoor adventures to cultural explorations, here’s a list of our top 10 things to do in Launceston that’s a hit with locals and visitors alike.
1. Explore Cataract Gorge
- Travel time and distances from Launceston: Located about 1.5 km from the city centre, Cataract Gorge is a quick 2-minute drive or 15-minute walk.
- Ideal activity length: 2-4 hours
- Cost: Entry is free with some ticketed activities like the Cataract Gorge Chairlift and various tours, plus facilities like restaurants, cafes and kiosks.
- Bookings: No advance bookings are required as ticketed activities can be booked on-site.
- Best for: Nature lovers, adventurers, families with kids, photographers, and culture enthusiasts.
Stroll along the cliff-top paths, visit the Duck Reach Power Station, cross the historic Kings Bridge and swinging suspension bridge, or soar above the gorge on a scenic chairlift. For the adventurous, there are opportunities for rock climbing and kayaking. Families with kids will enjoy a dip in the natural swimming pool, a picnic on the lawns or the playground equipment.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including wallabies and peacocks. We recommend using the inclinator for easy access between the top entrance and the lawn area below, it also has wheelchair access and is free to ride.
2. Experience Low Head Penguin Tours
- Travel time and distances from Launceston: A 45-minute drive, about 57 kilometres north of Launceston along East Tamar Highway.
- Ideal activity length: 1-1.5 hours
- Cost: $40 per person
- Bookings: Book online through the Low Head Penguin Tours website. Tour sizes are 10-15 people at a time so advance bookings are recommended. Timings may vary based on weather conditions.
- Best for: Nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and anyone looking for a family-friendly, educational experience and unique, up-close encounter with these enchanting seabirds in their natural habitat.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tours set out at night around sunset and provide an intimate glimpse into the lives of the Little Penguins (or Blue Penguins) of Low Head, giving visitors a chance to respectfully observe their natural behaviours and learn about the importance of protecting their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for other local wildlife, such as shorebirds, seals, and dolphins that frequent the area.
Author’s tip: Make sure to wear warm clothing during winter months as it gets quite cold (with minimum temperatures dropping below 2°C).
3. Visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG)
- Travel time and distances from Launceston: Next to Royal Park, it’s just a short 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the city centre.
- Ideal activity length: 2-3 hours
- Cost: General admission is free. The Planetarium tickets are $6 for children, $8 for adults and $24 for a family pass. Some special exhibitions or events may have additional ticket fees.
- Bookings: No advanced bookings are required for general admission. Planetarium tickets can be booked online and for any special exhibits or programs, tickets can be purchased onsite.
- Best for: Art enthusiasts, history buffs, families with kids, and those with a general curiosity about the region’s cultural and scientific heritage.
The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) is a cultural treasure trove nestled within the Royal Park. One of the museum’s highlights is the preserved specimen of the extinct Tasmanian tiger, including historical photographs, objects and stories about this remarkable animal.
For those interested in the cosmos, the QVMAG’s planetarium has immersive celestial experiences. There are also plenty of other art, history and natural science programs and interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages.
4. Indulge at Harvest Market Launceston
- Travel time and distances from Launceston: 5 minutes walk from the city centre
- Ideal activity length: 1-2 hours
- Cost: Free entry
- Bookings: Not required. The Harvest Market is held every Saturday morning from 8:30 am onwards.
- Best for: Foodies and families.
Spend a Saturday morning strolling through the bustling market stalls, where you’ll find an abundance of fresh local produce, from juicy berries and crisp apples to artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread. Sample delectable treats, sip on aromatic coffee, and chat with friendly local producers. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a unique shopping experience, Harvest Market is a must-visit destination for anyone.
5. Tackle the mountain bike trails at Derby
- Travel time and distances from Launceston: Approximately 1.5 hours drive North East (100 km).
- Ideal activity length: A full day or multiple days.
- Cost: Free to ride, but bike hire and shuttle services may incur costs.
- Bookings: Not required for the trails, but bike hire and shuttle services may require booking in advance.
- Best for: Mountain biking enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and nature lovers.
The Blue Derby mountain bike trail network boasts over 125 kilometres of purpose-built single-track trails, winding through stunning Tasmanian forests. Ride through the lush forest floor, encountering towering trees, crystal clear creeks, and stunning rock formations. The trails cater to all skill levels, from flowing beginner tracks to challenging technical descents.
Plan the perfect Launceston adventure with Turo. From fuel-efficient compacts for easy city exploring to roomy SUVs for longer Tasmanian road trips, find unique vehicles hosted by locals, ready to enhance your journey. Explore car rental in Launceston on Turo.
6. Venture along the Tamar Valley wine trail
- Travel time and distances from Launceston: Approximately 30 minutes to an hour drive, depending on the specific winery.
- Ideal activity length: Half-day to full day
- Cost: Varies depending on wine tastings and purchases.
- Bookings: Not usually required, but some wineries may offer guided tours or tastings that require bookings in advance.
- Best for: Wine lovers, foodies, and anyone looking for a relaxing day out.
The Tamar Valley Wine Route is an iconic attraction in Tasmania’s north, encompassing over thirty vineyards and wineries along the Tamar River. It’s renowned for producing world-class cool climate wines, including sparkling wine, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Stop in to sample award-winning wines and have a cellar-door experience where you can pair your wine tastings with delicious local produce, from cheeses to charcuterie and fresh seafood.
7. Visit Grindelwald Swiss Village
- Travel time and distances from Launceston: Approximately 15 minutes drive (15 km).
- Ideal activity length: 2-4 hours
- Cost: Free entry, additional costs for activities like tobogganing and mini golf.
- Bookings: Free entry, additional costs for activities and amenities. Accommodation can also be booked through the official website.
- Best for: Families with kids or couples.
This Swiss-themed Tamar Valley Resort at Grindelwald is a unique alpine experience in the Tasmanian countryside. Explore the Grindelwald boutique, savour authentic Swiss cuisine, and enjoy scenic walks through the picturesque village. In summer, ride the alpine coaster, go kayaking or play a round on the mini golf and splash golf course. Winter transforms the village into a winter wonderland, perfect for tobogganing and snow play.
8. Take a ride with Hot Air Balloon Tasmania
- Travel time and distances from Launceston: Meet in town at the upstairs lounge of the Peppers Silo Launceston, then it’s a 30-minute drive to the launch site.
- Ideal activity length: 3-4 hours
- Cost: From $415 per person
- Bookings: Bookings are essential and can be made through the official site.
- Best for: Adventurers, romantics, and anyone looking for a unique experience.
Experience the magic of floating silently through the sky at 3,000 feet, soaring over spectacular scenery of rolling hills, lush valleys, and the sparkling waterways of the Tasmanian countryside. Each flight lasts around 45 minutes, while the entire experience (including a delicious champagne breakfast if you’ve selected the package) typically lasts around 4 hours.
Keep in mind that all flights begin at 4:30 am in summer and 6:30 am in winter, are dependent on the weather conditions and may be cancelled if it’s raining, windy or foggy. The minimum age of passengers allowed on is 7 years, and children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
9. Visit Josef Chromy Winery
- Travel time and distances from Launceston: 10 minutes drive from the Launceston city centre and Launceston airport.
- Ideal activity length: 2-4 hours
- Cost: $20-$295 per person depending on package
- Bookings: Booking ahead of time is recommended for the Cellar Door experience and required for all other packages.
- Best for: Wine lovers, foodies, small groups looking for a relaxing day out
Josef Chromy Winery is a renowned Tasmanian winery, offering a world-class experience as you immerse yourself in the stunning Tamar Valley setting, exploring the historic cellar door housed in the original 1880s homestead.
Indulge in a variety of experiences, from casual, cool climate wine tastings to a two-course lunch with expertly matched wines at their hatted restaurant, including a vineyard tour to learn about the winemaking process and participating in a masterclass to craft your own wine.
10. Sample sustainable local produce at Launceston’s fine dining restaurants
- Travel time and distances from Launceston: Varies depending on the restaurant’s location, but most are within walking distance of the city centre.
- Ideal activity length: A few hours to a full evening.
- Cost: Varies depending on the restaurant and chosen menu.
- Bookings: Recommended, especially for popular restaurants and on weekends.
- Best for: Foodies, couples, and those seeking a sophisticated dining experience.
Launceston boasts a thriving food scene, with a number of award-winning restaurants that showcase the best of Tasmanian produce. Indulge in a culinary journey, sampling fresh seafood, free-range meats, and seasonal vegetables.
For a truly memorable dining experience, book a table at Black Cow Bistro, a renowned restaurant that celebrates Tasmanian flavours. Their innovative dishes, expertly paired with a carefully selected wine list, offer a taste of the region’s culinary excellence.
Exploring Launceston: Your complete guide to what to do in Launceston
While Launceston offers a wealth of classic attractions, there are plenty of unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had.
Unique things to do in Launceston
Looking for unusual things to do in Launceston? Here are some unique experiences:
- Bridestowe Estate: Indulge in the fragrant lavender fields and savour the famous lavender ice cream.
- Treetops Adventure Hollybank: Soar through the treetops on a thrilling high ropes course along one of Australia’s longest ziplines.
- Penny Royal Adventures: A fun-filled experience for family and friends, including historic steam train rides, gold panning, and exciting rides.
Things to do in Launceston for families
Travelling with kids? Here are a few activities perfect for families:
- City Park: Relax by the tranquil Albert Lake, feed the famous Japanese macaque monkeys, and enjoy a picnic.
- Riverbend Park: Experience the thrill of the Sky Walk, a massive, multi-level playground structure perfect for kids of all ages. Also includes full-size sports courts and a huge confluence net.
- Mole Creek Caves: Explore a magical underground world, filled with the stunning natural wonders of stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Things to do in Launceston for couples
Looking for a romantic activity with your partner? Try:
- Enjoy a romantic dinner: Indulge in a fine dining experience at one of the city’s many restaurants.
- Take a scenic drive: Take a romantic road trip to the stunning Bay of Fires, renowned for its pristine white beaches and vibrant orange-hued rocks.
- Relax at a spa: Pamper yourselves with a couple’s massage or other spa treatments.
Free things to do in Launceston
On a budget? Launceston offers a variety of free activities for visitors.
- Walking trails and hiking trails: Explore the beautiful natural surroundings on foot, including Cataract Gorge, City Park, and the Tamar River.
- Visit Seaport Marina: Stroll along the North Esk River, watch the boats, and enjoy the best of Launceston’s waterfront atmosphere.
- Picnic in a park: Pack a picnic and relax in one of Launceston’s many parks and gardens.
Explore Launceston by car
Ready to hit the road? Venture off the beaten path, uncover hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories throughout your Tasmanian journey with your own set of wheels. Regardless of whether you’re starting your trip from Launceston or exploring within, rent a car on Turo and browse through a wide selection of vehicles from local hosts to find the perfect vehicle for your Launceston adventure.
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.
