Things to do in Hobart

Hobart is a destination all travellers must visit. As Tasmania’s capital, Hobart offers a rich blend of history, culture and natural beauty. You could enjoy fun and adventurous hikes or an exciting day trip to one of Tasmania’s top highlights, there’s something for everyone in Hobart. Take a look at the best things to do in Hobart.

MONA – Museum of Old and New Art

Experience Australia’s largest private museum, MONA, renowned for its provocative and contemporary art collections. The museum’s unique architecture and underground galleries provide an immersive experience that challenges conventional perceptions of art.​ This is a great experience and one of the many things to do in Hobart. Want to learn more about MONA? Check out our blog MONA: Exploring the Provocative Art and Innovative Curation.

Hike to Mount Wellington (Kunanyi)

A trip to Hobart isn’t complete without visiting Mount Wellington (Kunanyi). Towering 1,271m above the city, it offers stunning views and fantastic hiking trails for different fitness levels.

Reach the summit by hiking, cycling, driving, or taking a bus or tour and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas. Pinnacle Road allows vehicle access but may close in winter due to snow. With temperatures dropping to -9°C, warm layers are essential! An indoor viewing platform provides shelter, along with amenities like toilets.

For a full experience, combine your Kunanyi adventure with a day tour of Hobart’s top attractions. This iconic landmark is a must-visit!

Chase Waterfalls Near Hobart

Visiting Hobart in summer or spring? Don’t miss its stunning waterfalls! Wellington Falls, just 19km from the city, offers a rewarding 16km return hike leading to the largest waterfall in Hobart. Cool off with a refreshing dip after the trek.

For a classic Tasmanian hike, head to Mount Field National Park (70 minutes from Hobart). The Three Falls Track takes you through towering eucalypts to Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Lady Barron Falls. Plan your own adventure or join a guided day tour for a hassle-free experience.

Explore Bruny Island

Just a short trip from Hobart, Bruny Island is a must-visit, offering stunning beaches, coastal wildlife, and fresh local cuisine. Relax by the shore, visit the famous Neck Lookout, take a cruise, seaplane tour, or horseback ride and sample local cheeses and oysters. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like the rare white wallaby! Check out our Bruny Island tours and cruises to plan your visit!

Explore Port Arthur – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

A visit to Port Arthur, just outside Hobart, is a must for history lovers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into Australia’s colonial past, with preserved prisons, houses, and historic ruins once home to convicts and settlers. Join a guided tour to uncover fascinating stories and explore one of Tasmania’s most significant heritage sites. Want to learn more about Port Arthur and other historical sites in Tasmania, take a look at our blog The Amazing Local History of Tasmania.

Salamanca Morning Markets

Visiting local markets is always a unique experience, and Hobart’s iconic Salamanca Market is a must-see. Held every Saturday morning at Salamanca Place, near Hobart Harbour, this vibrant market features over 300 stalls offering handmade crafts, jewellery, clothing, fresh produce, and delicious local street food. It’s a great way to support local artisans while enjoying a lively shopping experience. You can also join a story walk to explore the area’s rich history. As Tasmania’s top tourist attraction, it’s a must-do when visiting Hobart!

Wineglass Bay & Freycinet National Park 

Wineglass Bay, one of Australia’s most iconic beaches, is located in Freycinet National Park. Known for its stunning scenery and coastal hikes, it’s perfect for a day trip from Hobart. Explore the Wineglass Bay Lookout, scenic trails, and Mount Freycinet for a mini adventure. Don’t miss this Tasmanian highlight, it is one of the best things to do in Hobart!

Hobart at night

Hobart offers a vibrant nightlife with world-class restaurants, lively bars, and clubs. For a unique experience, don’t miss Street Eats @ Frankos, held every Friday night from December to April in Franklin Square, featuring local food and live music. If you’re after something more romantic, book a sunset dinner cruise on the River Derwent to enjoy breathtaking views of Hobart while dining.

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

Established in 1818, these gardens are among the oldest in the Southern Hemisphere. Spanning 14 hectares, they showcase a diverse range of plant species, including a subantarctic plant house, making it a serene spot for relaxation and exploration.​ Add this to your itinerary of things to do in Hobart during your stay.

Battery Point

Step back in time as you wander through Battery Point, one of Hobart’s oldest neighborhoods. Characterised by well-preserved colonial architecture and narrow lanes, it’s a delightful area to explore on foot, offering insights into the city’s maritime history.​

Cascade Brewery

As Australia’s oldest operating brewery, established in 1824, Cascade Brewery offers guided tours that delve into its rich history and brewing processes. After the tour, enjoy a tasting session in the brewery’s picturesque gardens.​

Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery

Discover Tasmania’s natural and cultural heritage at this museum, which houses a vast collection ranging from Aboriginal artifacts to contemporary art. Interactive exhibits make it engaging for visitors of all ages.​

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

Get up close with Tasmania’s unique wildlife at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. Home to rescued animals, including Tasmanian devils, wombats, and kangaroos, the sanctuary offers guided tours that educate visitors about conservation efforts.​ This is a great adventure to add to the list of things to do in Hobart.

Farm Gate Market – A food lover’s paradise

Every Sunday, Farm Gate Market brings Hobart’s freshest produce and gourmet delights to the heart of the city. Stroll through bustling stalls filled with seasonal fruits, crisp vegetables, quality meats, and handcrafted treats, all sourced from local producers. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with street performances and live music, making it the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning indulging in Tasmania’s finest flavours.

Hobart seamlessly blends its rich history with modern culture and natural beauty, offering visitors a diverse range of experiences—there are so many things to do in Hobart. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, indulging in local delicacies, or immersing yourself in the art scene, Hobart promises a memorable journey. So, book a Tasmanian day tour from Hobart and visit popular holiday destinations while experiencing adventures like never before.

Planning your trip? Check out our Best Time to Visit Tasmania guide to make the most of your journey, and explore even more Things to Do in Tasmania for incredible experiences across the island. And if you’re travelling with kids, be sure to read our Best Places to Visit in Tasmania with the Kids for family-friendly tips and recommendations!