Best Things to do in Hobart

Known as one of Australia’s most historic destinations, Hobart is a destination all travellers must visit. As Tasmania’s capital, Hobart offers a wide range of activities and tours to explore. You could enjoy a fun and adventurous hikes or an exciting day trip to one of Tasmania’s top highlights. This blog lists some of the best things to do in greater Hobart, giving you an idea of what activities to book first.

Hike Up Mount Wellington (Kunanyi) Summit

When you ask someone what you should do while visiting Hobart, the first thing they would say is to hike up to Mount Wellington Summit. Also known as Kunanyi, Mount Wellington is 1271 metres tall and towers over Hobart city. Not only does Kunanyi protect the city from harsh weather conditions and provides the locals with fresh drinking water, but it also is considered one of the best walking tracks in Hobart.

Pinnacle Road is the only road open to vehicles that leads to the summit. It may be closed periodically in winter months due to snow and ice. The peak has recorded as low as -9 degrees so be sure to pack your thermals when visiting year round. There is an indoor viewing platform at the summit to protect from standing outside in strong winds, with amenities such as toilets. There is a transmission tower standing at 130m tall which provides locals with free-to-air television access. 

You can travel either by hiking up there with friends, jumping on a bus or by self-driving. You could also book a day tour where you can explore other popular tourists’ attractions alongside visiting the famous Mount Wellington Summit. This activity is a must-do when visiting Hobart as it is an important landmark to the locals and is a fun and adventurous experience to try.

Hobart’s Best Waterfalls

If you’re visiting Hobart during the summer or in springtime, be sure to stop by one of their many blissful waterfalls. One of the most popular waterfalls to visit is Wellington Falls, located 19km from Hobart CBD. It is the largest waterfall in Hobart with one of the longest hikes, Wellington Falls Walk which is around 16km or 5 hours return! Once you have enjoyed the hike, take a dip in the waters of the falls to call off. 

One of Tasmania’s best and oldest hikes is the Mount Fields National Parks hike along Lady Barron Creek, also known as the Three Falls Track. Located 70 minutes (73km) north-west from Hobart CBD, this trip is definitely worth visiting with cascading waterfalls and giant eucalypt trees. On this trail you can spot three iconic waterfalls on your way up. These waterfalls include Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Lady Barron Falls. A valid pass is required to visit all of Tasmania’s national parks – find out more at Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania website.

You can either plan these hikes for yourself or book a day tour for a stress-free adventure.

Bruny Island

Another popular activity to do while in Hobart is to spend a day at Bruny Island, a 362 km² island filled with coastal wildlife and warm soft sand to lay on. You can lay by the beach and enjoy the fresh local cuisine or visit the famous Neck Lookout and get a unique view of the beautiful island from the lookout. Why not book a short cruise, horse riding, a seaplane tour or a region tour during your visit to Bruny Island. Or even stay the night at one of their luxury hotels right beside the beach? Whether it’s a Bruny Island day trip with the family or a spontaneous overnight stay with friends, be sure to add this to your list of activities to do in Hobart. Check out our Bruny Island tours and Bruny Island cruises before you plan your trip.

Unesco World Heritage Site

When visiting Tasmania, Hobart is one of the best places to stay as you’re surrounded by some of Tasmania’s best highlights, including the Unesco World Heritage Site located in Port Arthur . If you enjoy learning about the history of Australia, one of the most popular Hobart tourist attractions is a Port Arthur tour. This will allow you to learn about the history of the convicts who once lived during the colonial period. A personal tour guide will help you explore the prisons, houses, and land that was once the home to many convicts and colonists. A trip to Port Arthur offers an insightful and educational tour of the history of Australia. It is perfect for those who are always wanting something interesting to do.

Salamanca Morning Markets

The best thing about visiting new places is visiting their local markets, every market offers a unique experience each time. The iconic Salamanca Markets are on every Saturday morning located in Salamanca Place near Hobart Harbour, right below Battery Point. The market offers locals and visitors an opportunity to purchase local craftsmen, jewellery, clothes, and farmer’s homegrown goods from over 300 stallholders. You can also taste some of Tasmania’s delicious local street food. Make sure you keep a Saturday morning free to support the locals of Hobart and enjoy a nice day shopping. You can join a story walk of Salamanca to learn about the fascinating history of the area. This is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Hobart. It is no wonder that it is Tasmania’s top visited tourist attraction.

Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park 

Wineglass Bay is known as one of the most iconic beaches in Australia. It is located in Freycinet National Park, it is known for its turquoise cool waters and beautiful bushwalks. There are many scenic trails along the coastal waters that travellers can hike, as well as visit the Wineglass Bay Lookout and Mount Freycinet. This trip is perfect for those searching for a mini adventure with friends during your stay in Hobart. Organise a day trip up to this iconic destination and enjoy one of Tasmania’s best highlights.

Hobart at night

As you can see there are many activities you can do during the day. But, what are the best things to do in Hobart at night? Hobart has a small yet vibrant nightlife scene. It is filled with world-renowned restaurants for dinner and bars and clubs where you can dance the night away. 

Street Eats @ Frankos

This is a must-do when visiting Hobart, make sure you check out Street Eats @ Frankos. It is full of delicious local food and great music. It is held every Friday night from December to April, located in Franklin Square. All you need to do is buy a ticket to experience a night filled with picture-worthy food and amazing vibes. This is the place for the best food in Hobart.

Sunset Dinner Cruise

Searching for something a little bit more romantic? Book a sunset cruise so you can dine as you enjoy the scenery of Hobart. Taking you through River Derwent, you will see some of Hobart’s historic highlights. Sip on your beverage of choice and see the sights of Hobart.

Whether you’re searching for food markets, iconic beaches or wanting to chase waterfalls, Hobart is calling your name. So, book a Tasmanian day tour from Hobart and visit popular holiday destinations and experience adventures like never before.