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Looking for the best day trips from Hobart, Tasmania? Perfect! We are here to help! Whether you are a first-time visitor or a local, you will find many options here!
We’ve selected the best destinations for a day trip from Hobart. This includes the famous and touristy ones but also some hidden gems!
Whether you’re an adventurer or like to relax at the beach, Tasmania has a lot in store for you and it’s time to discover it!
⏱️ IN A RUSH? Here are the top 3 Day Trips from Hobart
1️⃣ 🌄 Mount Wellington
2️⃣ 🏝️ Bruny Island
3️⃣ 🏰 Port Arthur
Hobart is the capital of Tasmania. With only 207,000 inhabitants, Hobart is the smallest capital in Australia. That having been said, it doesn’t mean that you will get bored! On the contrary!
Whether you are staying 3, 5 or 10 days in Tasmania, exploring Hobart and its region is a must-do!
Staying in Hobart is an excellent choice as you will find beautiful accommodation options and it’s very easy to explore the surroundings.
In this article, we tell you everything about the best day trips from Hobart and how to get there!
1. Port Arthur
Located on the Tasman Peninsula, Port Arthur is the perfect day trip for culture and history lovers!
This historical town is known all over the world for its colonial heritage. As you may know, Australia was colonised by the British Empire who sent their convicts to build up the newly acquired colony.
Port Arthur was a penal colony and overtime it became an open museum that you can now visit! The ruins are still intact and considered one of the most important historical sites in Australia.
Although the colonial history is all around in Australia (architecture, culture, banknotes…), you rarely get to see what it was like for the convicts.
As a matter of fact, that’s a topic Australians avoid often. Visiting Port Arthur is a unique opportunity to discover this part of the Australian history. You will feel like stepping back in time to the 19th century.
Moreover, there are exciting tours at night that are filled with ghost stories that will surely keep you on your toes at all times! The penitentiary in Port Arthur was one of the most brutal ones in the British Empire. Only the worst convicts were sent there, hence the ghost stories.
If you’re up for a thrilling cultural adventure, then this is the place for you!
You have to buy an entry ticket to visit the historical site of Port Arthur. It’s preferable to book it online to avoid any disappointments. You can book here. The ticket also includes a guided tour which is very interesting.
If you are up for a ghost tour, you can also book it online. See prices here.
HOW TO GET THERE: If you want to visit on your own, get in your car and drive to Port Arthur. It takes 90 minutes. There are also a few other sites worth checking in Port Arthur so driving will be convenient. You will still need to buy your entrance ticket though.
Another option would be to go on a Port Arthur Day Tour from Hobart. This is quite convenient as it includes transport, guided tour, entrance ticket, stops at Devils Kitchen, Tasman Arch, Remarkable Caves and a lavender farm.
2. Mount Wellington
Mount Wellington lies on the Western side of Hobart. You can perfectly see it from the CBD and it is the most popular day trip from Hobart. It’s also referred to as Kunanyi which is the aboriginal name.
It only takes 30 minutes from Hobart CBD to get to Mount Wellington.
There are many walks you can take. No matter which one you choose, you can be sure to soak up beautiful views! You don’t actually need the full day to go to Mount Wellington from Hobart but if you want to hike, you should plan on spending the day.
If you are driving, you can park in 3 different car parks. Your choice should depend on the hike you want to do. Here are your options:
- The Pinnacle – All lookouts are within 100 metres
- The Chalet – Take the Organ Pipe loop through Mount Wellington
- The Springs – This one is way further. To get to the summit, you will need to take the Pinnacle trail and the Organ Pipe loop.
No matter which option you choose, you will be amazed by the beauty of the place! Not only will you see the beautiful Derwent Valley in all of its glory but you will also get to see other breath-taking views of all of Hobart.
You can also plan activities such as rock climbing, biking, and hiking to satisfy your thrill-seeking, adventurous soul.
Please note that there is no entry fee and that dogs are allowed!
HOW TO GET THERE: Mount Wellington is located 17km away from Hobart CBD. It takes less than 30 minutes to get there by car.
If you don’t have a car, you can opt for the Mount Wellington Explorer Bus. It’s reasonably priced and includes 5 stops and 30 minutes at the summit. It lasts 2 hours altogether. Click here to see the prices.
But ideally, you should opt for the full-day tour from Hobart which includes: Mt Wellington, Mt Field, Bonorong & Richmond. This is an excellent way to make the best of your time, especially if you are a first time visitor.
3. Bruny Island
Bruny Island is located less than 1 hour away from Hobart. It is popular for the variety of food items available along with the natural disposition of the island.
On Bruny Island, you will be treated to a multitude of different forms of seafood, cheese, and berries. One of the most prominent items to eat are oysters served by the Get Shucked oyster bar.
They are known to provide the most delicious oysters you can taste!
For wine, head to Bruny Island Premium Wines for a tasting. Finally, make sure to drop by Bruny Island Cheese co to try some delicious local cheese.
Another reason to visit Bruny Island is for the wildlife. There are many animals on the island including penguins.
Finally, if you are up for a good walk, these will be perfect for you:
- Mavista Nature Walk (40min – 1.4km)
- Alonnah-Sheepwash Bay Track. (1h -3km)
- Cape Queen Elizabeth Track. (3h – 12km)
- Labillardiere Peninsula Circuit (5h – 15km)
- Fluted Cape Track. Time: (2.5h – 5km)
Make sure to take a lot of pictures to save memories and show to your friends and family of all the great wonders you saw on this Bruny Island.
HOW TO GET THERE: If you have a car, drive 40 minutes and take the Bruny Island Ferry (20 minutes).
Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour from Hobart to Bruny Island. You will get to see the lighthouse, cheese and oyster producer… and much more!
4. Freycinet National Park
Freycinet National Park is home to Tasmania’s most famous natural landmark: Wineglass Bay.
Located on the East Coast of Tasmania, Freycinet National Park is an excellent day trip for nature lovers. That having been said, it’s a bit further compared to the other destinations mentioned in this article.
It will take you 2.5 hours to get from Hobart to Freycinet so you must be prepared for a long day.
Your first stop should be Wineglass Bay. This stunning bay offers white sand and turquoise blue water. It’s breath-taking.
To enjoy it, opt for a walk on the beach and go on the 2.6km walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout from the carpark. You can easily drive there from Coles Bay. The views from the lookout are absolutely jaw-dropping!
To make the most of the experience, you can also opt for a cruise in the bay!
Once you are done with Wineglass Bay, head to Honeymoon Bay, Sleepy Bay and the Cape Tourville lookout.
Please note that you will need to buy a Tasmania National Park pass to visit Freycinet. This can be done online or at the visitor centre.
HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive from Hobart to Coles Bay (the main town in Freycinet). It takes 2h20. There are car parks near the main attractions so getting around is pretty easy.
If you don’t have a car or want to avoid the hassle of driving and planning, you can opt for a day tour from Hobart. It includes stops at the landmarks mentioned and the national park pass.
5. Tasman National Park
Although Port Arthur is technically part of the Tasman National Park, it’s worth mentioning it as a day trip in itself!
It features beautiful coastal rock formations. As a matter of fact, it’s home to the highest cliffs in Australia. You can take a stroll towards the cliffs and see the spectacular views from there. It is also the perfect place to grab your fishing gear and head fishing as you’re sure to get a good catch.
Another favourite activity to do in this national park is to go bird watching. With a multitude of birds flying up in the sky, you’re sure to see tons of different breeds. Finally, make sure to check out The Tasman Arch and the Blowhole.
For the full experience, book a cruise! The views from the boat are incredibly pretty. You will get to see the sea cliffs, caves, blowholes, birds… basically everything at once. Click here to see the latest prices.
HOW TO GET THERE: It’s a 90 minutes drive from Hobart CBD to the Tasman National Park. Although the place may seem secluded, it’s very easy to get there by car (there is no need for a 4WD).
The alternative would be to go on a day tour from Hobart. This includes transport and hiking in the National Park (with a local guide)
6. Mt. Field National Park
Located 90 minutes away from Hobart, Mount Field is one of the oldest national parks in Tasmania. It’s home to beautiful waterfalls, lakes and mountains. If you are visiting in winter, you can also go skiing there!
The park is divided into two parts that you can visit.
The first one is home to the majestic Russell Falls. They are the most famous waterfalls in Tasmania. It’s an easy 15 minutes walk from the visitor centre.
When we think of waterfalls in Australia, the ones near Cairns often comes to mind but if you see Russell Falls, you will quickly realise that Tasmania is serious competition! While you are in the area, make sure to also go to Horseshoe Falls and Lady Barron Falls.
The second part of the park features Lake Dobson, the ski resorts and offers more options for hikers.
Here are two hikes that you can do during your day trip from Hobart:
- Lake Nicholls (2 hours)
- Mount Field East Circuit (4/5 hours)
HOW TO GET THERE: If you want to take full advantage of the hiking opportunities, you will need a car. It’s an easy 90 minutes drive.
If you don’t have a car, you can book a tour that combines Mt Field, Mt Wellington and Richmond.
That having been said, this won’t include the hikes so if you want to do that, it’s worth considering renting a car for that one. See the latest fares.
7. Maria Island
Located just off the east coast of Tasmania, Maria Island is home to some of the most beautiful natural landmarks in Tasmania.
If you can only take one day trip from Hobart, this should be the one! Why, you ask? Because Maria Island is like a mini-version of Tasmania. You will find on this small island the best of what Tasmania has to offer.
If you’ve visited Kangaroo Island before and thought “this is like a mini version of Australia”, then you will have the same feeling about Maria Island and Tasmania!
First, head to Darlington where you will discover another convict site. After that, go to the painted cliffs. This stunning natural landmark will blow your mind. Don’t forget your camera, you will need it!
If you are up for a hike, go on the 4-hour walk to the top of Bishop and Clerk Peaks.
Finally, keep an eye on the wildlife. There are many wombats in the area
HOW TO GET THERE: If you are driving, you need to go to Triabunna. It takes 1h10. From there you will take the ferry. It’s only 30 minutes but costs $45. Please note that you will also need to buy a national park pass.
When visiting for a day, I recommend booking a tour from Hobart. It includes transport, pass, lunch and sightseeing. It’s excellent value for money and you won’t need to worry about a thing.
8. Richmond
If you’re into visiting historical places and already went to Port Arthur, then you should definitely head to Richmond.
It’s only 25 minutes by car, making it one of the easiest places to visit from Hobart.
This beautiful town has deep historical connections and is an excellent place to learn more about the history of Australia.
The Richmond Bridge has a significant attribution to it. It was one of the most important military posts of Australia and holds a lot of value to the locals.
Travellers come here quite often to view this old bridge that was considered one of the greatest constructed bridges of that time. It’s also worth noting that it is the oldest bridge in Australia!
Speaking of which, you can also visit the oldest roman catholic church in Australia: St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church. It was built in 1836.
For a bit of colonial and convict history, head to Richmond Gaol. It’s even older than Port Arthur!
You can also easily head to different parts of Richmond and discover many native-Australian animals. Kangaroos and koalas are commonly found here and are extremely friendly!
HOW TO GET THERE: It’s very easy to access Richmond. If you have a car, it’s a short 25 minutes drive from Hobart CBD.
You can also opt for public transport. The bus 726 goes from Rosny Park Interchange Stop C to Richmond Bus Station.
Finally, you can book a day tour (that also includes Mt Field and Mt Wellington).
9. Kettering and Woodbridge
Kettering and Woodbridge are two villages right opposite Bruny Island.
Most visitors overlook them as they head straight to the island but if you want to enjoy a nice day trip and stay away from the crowds, they are good places to visit.
From the marinas, you will discover beautiful views of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel and Bruny Island. The hinterland is also very pretty. There are many orchards!
For delicious food, go to the Oyster Cove Inn.
HOW TO GET THERE: Kettering is located 32km south of Hobart. You will need to drive there. It only takes 30 minutes.
10. Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs
The Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs are located in the Huon Valley, 90 minutes drive from Hobart.
If you love natural spas, this one is for you!
As you get there, start with the tour of the caves ($24) before heading to the thermal springs.
The caves are rather impressive! The stalagmites are huge! This is a good thing to do with kids. They usually quite enjoy it!
Don’t forget to take your swimsuit for this one. The entry fee for the thermal springs is $5.
HOW TO GET THERE: It’s an easy 1h30 drive from Hobart. If you have a car, driving down is the best way to get there. You will need to buy the passes to enter both locations.
Alternatively, you can opt for a day tour which already includes entrance fees and transport.
11. Tahune Forest
The Tahune Forest is located 90 minutes from Hobart. It’s a great place to visit if you want to get away from the crowds and discover a bit of a hidden gem!
The main attraction is the Tahune Airwalk. It’s a steel canopy walkway. It includes a treetop walk and the Cable Eagle Hang Gliding.
This is a great thing to do with kids and grown-ups! It’s very good fun!
You will be walking in the trees, 40m above the ground and enjoy the views over the Huon and Picton rivers.
HOW TO GET THERE: If you have a car, put Tahune Airwalk in your GPS and follow the directions. It takes about 1h30 to get there.
Alternatively, you can opt for a tour which includes the Tahune Airwalk and a visit at Hastings Cave Springs.
12. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
This is the perfect Sunday trip for families and first-time visitors. The Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the most famous Australian and Tasmanian species.
If you’ve always dreamt of seeing a Tasmanian Devil or wombat, this is the ideal place!
The sanctuary is run by a team of passionate people who truly care about the well-being of the animals.
The carers also offer guided tours, during which they explain everything you need to know about their beautiful creatures and their work. It’s very interesting and good fun.
The sanctuary is open every day. The guided tours are at 10AM, 11:30AM, 1:30PM and 3:30PM. You can buy your ticket at the desk or directly on their website.
HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily drive there from Hobart. It takes 30 minutes and there is a free car park on-site.
If you don’t have a car, you can book a half-day tour to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. See prices here.
If you want to hit 2 birds with one stone (no pun intended), you can opt for the combo tour with Mt Field and Mt Wellington.
Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or with your family, you will love discovering all these destinations in Tasmania. No matter what, you can be sure of one thing: you will have the time of your life!
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