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Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania © Pierre Destribats

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• Top things to do
• Getting to Tasmania

Reconnect with nature, wildlife and your taste buds on a trip to the impossibly beautiful island state of Tasmania.

Tasmania’s natural beauty is captivating, its cultural experiences are diverse, and its food and drink offering is enviable. Get a true taste of Tasmania in its fresh apple cider, cheeses, wine and oysters, and experience a dose of its serenity with its powder-white beaches and laid-back luxury. 

Tasmania's natural beauty abounds around every corner, and thanks to its compact size, it's easy to see a good portion of it by travelling just outside the capital city of Hobart. It's also a wildlife haven, so wherever you travel, you're likely to spot wombats, pademelons and wallabies. 

• Visit Hobart's most fascinating art gallery, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)
• Wander white sand beaches lining calm blue waters of Freycinet National Park
• Head out for a true adventure on one of the state's famous walking tracks  

Tasmania may be Australia’s island state, but it’s still easily accessible from the mainland.

The two major Tassie cities, Hobart and Launceston, have direct flights from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. You can also travel by sea using the car ferry, Spirit of Tasmania, which crosses between mainland Australia (from Geelong) to the Tasmanian city of Devonport (near Launceston) daily. Driving is a great way to get around after arriving in Tasmania, with incredible road trips like the Great Eastern Drive waiting to be discovered.

Popular destinations in Tasmania

Launceston, Devonport and Burnie

Cradle Mountain

Tasman Peninsula

Tasmania's West Coast

Trips and itineraries.

Circle Tasmania road trip

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A 10-day taste of gourmet Tasmania

5 days of Instagram worthy sights in Tasmania

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Tasmania's best islands

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Tasmania's top hiking trails

Looking for more inspiration? Go to discovertasmania.com

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Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Tasmania, the Fast-Transforming & Flourishing Australian Island State

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Cut off from Australia ’s mainland by the Bass Strait, Tasmania is the country’s lone island state—and arguably its hottest destination. Defying its past reputation as a sleepy, rustic wonderland with little cosmopolitan flair, today Tasmania is slowly blossoming with unique natural and cultural tours and experiences, a tour de force culinary scene, and game-changing city hotel openings—attracting wilderness-seekers , gourmands, and contemporary art lovers in equal measure. For a curated set of suggestions for your next Tasmanian adventure, here are some of the finest places and things to do in Tasmania for your Down Under bucket list.  

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

MONA's Crucifix, 1955, Sidney Nolan; The Naked Studio, 1981, Brett Whiteley; Vitalis, 2007, Toby Ziegler

If you asked a local which place helped put Tasmania on the tourism map, they’d likely point to the 2011 opening of a monstrous subterranean art gallery near Hobart. The MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) is Australia’s largest private museum, and among the world’s most provocative—think sensory-altering spaces by James Turrell and a wall of porcelain cast female genitals—and its sandstone-embedded architecture is a visual marvel unto itself.

The 2021 launch of takara nipaluna (Walking Hobart) tours might be Tasmania’s most culturally significant, as guests learn the devastating and unknown history of Tasmanian Aboriginal life in the Hobart region, led by palawa/warlpiri woman Nunami Sculthorpe-Green. For more unsung Hobart history, Cascade Female Factory Historic Site preserves the tormented legacy of a female colonial Australian prison through exhibitions, guided site tours, and powerful, interactive one-woman performances.

The great outdoors is Tasmania’s top draw. Take a spirited night hike atop Mount Wellington, looming above the city of Hobart, with Walk on Kunanyi ; explore Launceston’s gorgeous Cataract Gorge and the Tamar River via foot pedal-operated kayak (no arm muscles required) with Launceston Kayak ; and schlep past granite boulders to Wineglass Bay Lookout in Freycinet National Park to see one of the world’s most iconic beach viewpoints.

For the ultimate and time-saving Tassie adventure, take flight with Tasmania Air Tours , an ace operator with packaged and bespoke heli-charters to the region’s finest cellar doors and distilleries, natural landmarks, private beach picnics, and more. A well-charged camera is imperative if capturing stunning aerial views of Hobart and the surrounding Coal River Valley Region appeals.

Crispy pork belly, umeboshi, Tokyo turnip, garlic chip at Stillwater Restaurant

Aloft restaurant's dining room

Where to eat

Tasmania’s culinary reputation punches well above its weight as Australia’s smallest state, thanks to the many sustainable-minded farmers, winemakers, and distillers making the most of the bountiful terrain (and surrounding sea). In gastro hotspot Hobart, waterfront-based Aloft offers seasonal set menus blending Tasmanian ingredients with hints of pan-Asian flavor, elevated by all-Tasmanian wine pairings, effervescent service, and wraparound harbor views. At The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel , step inside a modern glass-ceilinged trattoria at Peppina , Hobart’s finest Italian restaurant with food from Tasmanian-born, Naples-raised Chef Massimo Mele. After your meal, head to the slick adjoining hotel bar Mary Mary for native ingredient-based cocktails inside a space that way formerly a 19th-century hospital.

A 40 minute’s drive from Hobart to New Norfolk will bring you to Agrarian Kitchen Eatery , a handsome cookery estate repurposed from a historic mental asylum. Hyper-local produce is king at their airy restaurant (as are the all-Tasmanian beer and wine selections), and October 2022 will see a new cooking school and kitchen garden. It’s worth venturing up north to charming Launceston just to experience Stillwater Restaurant , a relaxed, riverbank-based gem housed in a former flour mill (the team also hosts a smart seven-room lodge there) still at the top of its game after opening in 2000.

Tasmania’s wine and spirits scene is top-notch, too. Biodynamic vino lovers will enjoy a Tuscany-style cellar door visit to Stefano Lubiana Wines , renowned for their pinot grigio and sparkling varieties, and whiskey buffs now need to add the town of Oatlands to the itinerary for the brand-new, instantly impressive Callington Mill Distillery .

Guest room at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Where to stay

Hobart’s current hotel talk of the town is The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel , a sophisticated downtown-based five-star honed in on heritage (and the now) with three era-specific buildings welded as one. Find 152 modern yet elegant guest rooms and suites, white-hot dining and cocktail bar venues, and masterfully preserved 19th and 20th Century architecture which still oozes contemporary character. Near The Tasman in MacQuarie Wharf is MACq01 , a quirky upmarket hotel overlooking the Derwent River where creative Tasmanian storytelling—seen in the hallway illustrations, in-room artifacts of historic local characters and the three immersive tours on offer—is the theme. 

Saffire Freycinet , an iconic 20-suite luxury resort shouldering Freycinet National Park, is the stuff of dreams. There is no bad view of The Hazards’ quartet of pink granite peaks and Coles Bay from any of the suites’ terraces, nor from the glassy manta ray-shaped main lodge where degustation menus and spa treatments take center stage. Unforgettable complimentary activities include wading in waist-high bay water with sparkling wine and just-shucked oysters in hand at a marine farm, encountering endangered Tasmanian devils from their private enclosure, and guided tours of the national park.

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The 25 Best Things to Do in Tasmania (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 6, 2024

From Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park to historic Port Arthur here is my list of the best things to do in Tasmania. 

Tasmania is especially well known for its breathtaking east coast which includes the Freycinet National Park and the Bay of Fires.

Away from the coast, you’ll find probably the country’s most famous destination – Cradle Mountain situated in the heart of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

Simply put, there are so many things to do in Tasmania!

READ MORE: Don’t miss our complete travel guide to exploring Australia !

Table of Contents

Hike to Wineglass Bay in the Freycinet National Park 

Scramble across rocks in the bay of fires , go hiking or biking on maria island, hiking in the douglas-apsley national park, watch the penguins at bicheno, go hiking in mount william national park, enjoy views of hobart from mount wellington, stuff yourself at salamanca market, marvel at mona, learn about tasmania’s history at port arthur historic site, explore the deserted coalmines on the tasman peninsula , enjoy fish and chips in doo town, take a dip in launceston’s cataract gorge , meet a platypus in the tamar valley , cradle to coast tasting trail , enjoy fish chips and sunset at the nut in stanley , take a dip at boat harbour beach , explore the caves at mole creek karst national park, road trip the tarkine drive, hike to the summit of cradle mountain, strahan and queenstown , marvel at stalactites and stalagmites in hastings caves, go hiking around bruny island, do a wildlife cruise around bruny island, charter a boat around port davey, budget – montacute boutique bunkhouse, midrange – scamander sanctuary holiday park, luxury – cradle mountain hotel, budget – exeter bakery , midrange – almost anywhere on the cradle to coast tasting trail., luxury – hursey seafood, the best things to do in tasmania.

Many would say Tassie has more in common with New Zealand than Australia.

Stunning mountain vistas go hand in hand with desolate coastlines plus you can experience 4 seasons in a day at almost any point in the year. 

The country’s stunning east coast keeps the beach lovers happy whereas the country’s rugged interior appeals to hikers, campers, and travellers on a road trip.

If road trips are your thing then Tasmania has them by the bucket load.

Throw in some spectacular food and wildlife galore, all topped off with plenty of history and culture and it’s easy to see why some believe this is one of the most spectacular areas of the Australasian continent.  

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the best things to do in Tasmania

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

The East Coast

Tasmania’s east is far more accessible than the west and is home to many of the most popular attractions.

We’ll start with the East Coast’s biggest hitter. Simply put the Freycinet National Park is breathtakingly beautiful.

Of all the things to do in Tasmania, this has to make it to the top of your itinerary. 

Freycinet National Park is blessed with some breathtaking coastal views, fantastic hikes and even a few decent snorkelling spots. 

If you are driving in Tasmania then you will probably want to pick up a parks pass which allows you to park in all of Tasmania’s National Parks .

Holiday passes cost $80 AUD per vehicle, whereas 24-hour passes cost $24 AUD per vehicle. Therefore so long as you spend at least 3 days in Tasmania’s National Parks on a road trip the pass will have paid for itself. 

Coles Bay is the main entrance point to Freycinet National Park. Just a short walk from Coles Bay is the most famous and photographed location: the spectacular Wineglass Bay .

Wineglass Bay is a lovely piece of coastline can be accessed via the Hazard Beach track or the Wineglass Bay Walk , the latter of the trails being the shorter and less spectacular of the two. 

Unsurprisingly the trails around Wineglass Bay are popular. But it’s worth braving the crowds, because Wineglass Bay is a must-see in Tasmania.

That being said, there are plenty of stunning beaches throughout the national park that receive a smattering of visitors.

Both Sleepy Bay and Honeymoon Bay are great options if you want somewhere a little quieter.

However, it’s the beaches that are the draw here as opposed the hiking trails.

Honeymoon Bay is a particularly lovely place to take a dip and Sleepy Bay has a short but lovely coastal track that’s worth checking out. 

Our favourite undiscovered gem would have to be the Friendly Beaches in the northern section of the National Park.

If you’re based in the capital city of Hobart for a short stay, you can book a day tour to get out here and save yourself the hassle of having to drive. Most day tours from the city centre also stop by Richmond Bridge on the way, which is Australia’s oldest bridge.

Looking for a proper epic adventure here though? Make sure you do the Mt Amos hike for sunrise!

At the very north of Tasmania’s east coast trail lies the gorgeous Bay of Fires.

Its name comes from the fires of the native Aboriginal people spotted by Captain Tobias Furneaux. 

The bay is famous for the fire-coloured lichen that clings to the rocks throughout the park. Its most famous beach is Binalong Bay , just outside the sleepy coastal town of St Helens.

To the north of Binalong Bay lies the Bay of Fires . Head to the very end of C848 where you will find The Gardens situated at the heart of the Bay of Fires.

From here it’s onto the lichen-covered rocks where you can explore the bay of fires up close and personal.

The nearby town of St Helens has the widest variety of accommodation options.

However Scamander , a tiny beach town 30 minutes or so south has a couple of great midrange options. Plus there are some stunning deserted beaches nearby and the road trip here is stunning.

READ MORE: Use our guide to plan your 2-week Tasmania itinerary .

This gorgeous little island 45 minutes by ferry ride from the town of Triabunna is home to some great hiking and biking trails.

Many people spend a couple of days on Maria Island, staying in the penitentiary bunkhouses in Darlington or camping elsewhere on the island. 

Some of the most popular hiking trails take you to the Painted Cliffs, Bishop and Clerk and the Fossil Cliffs.

However, there are plenty more trails to keep you active with spectacular views all over the island.  Check out our complete guide to the best things to do on Maria Island.

Interestingly the northwestern coast is a marine reserve with a few interesting spots. Look out for some of the huge stingrays!

The island is home to a large population of wombats, wallabies, kangaroos, Cape Barron geese, and even elusive Tasmanian devils.

There are no shops or cars on the island so bring everything you need.

Just north of Bicheno, there is the lovely Douglas-Apsley National Park. Sadly, it is often skipped by travellers as they head towards Freycinet or the Bay of Fires. 

Home to spectacular waterfalls, rocky peaks and abundant wildlife it’s hard to understand why more people aren’t here. There are numerous hiking trails with some excellent 4+ hour routes offering spectacular views. 

Aside from the scenery, the park’s major selling point is that you will avoid the crowds that descend on Freycinet in the summer months. 

You will also need a Parks Pass here.  

Gorgeous little Bicheno hugs the coast between Freycinet and Douglas-Apsley. Many will base themselves here for that reason and to get a break from the crowds at Freycinet.

However, Bicheno itself is famous for its penguins. These can be viewed on daily dusk tours.

There are no souvenir stands or restaurants and photos are not allowed.

It’s a wonderful wildlife-watching experience and one of the top things to see in Tasmania.  

Nestled in the country’s northeastern corner is the Mount William National Park. This is one of the most overlooked Tasmania attractions.

The national park is home to numerous hiking trails with the 1.5-hour return walk to the highest point, Mount William, offering some amazing views.

Aside from hiking, there are opportunities to spot wildlife, surf and dive. 

READ MORE: Be sure to add these 12 places to your Tasmanian itinerary.

Hobart and Around

Tasmania’s main city is Hobart, and it also happens to be one of the funkiest cities in all of Australia.

As such you should definitely set aside a couple of days to hang out here and find all the cool attractions close by. It’s a great place to start for a road trip around Tasmania.

Lovely little Hobart is Tasmania’s capital, and whilst it doesn’t have the glitz and glamour of Sydney or Melbourne it is still a place that warrants a couple of days of exploring. 

One of Hobart’s top sights is Mount Wellington . Offering spectacular views over Hobart and the surrounds, Mount Wellington is best visited on a clear day.

However, Tasmania, being Tasmania, you can certainly expect 4 seasons in a day pretty much all year round. Check the weather before heading up Mount Wellington!

One of the best things to do in Tasmania is to eat some of the amazing produce the apple island has to offer. 

If you’re in Hobart on a Saturday then make sure you head to Salamanca Market to sample some of the amazing food on offer.

If you’re not in the city centre on a Saturday then head over to Battery Point to chow down at some fantastic eateries.

This incredible museum is one of the most important artistic installations in Australia.

The brainchild of Tasmanian millionaire David Walsh, MONA displays ancient, modern and contemporary art covering a wide variety of sometimes, controversial themes. 

David Walsh has described it as a “subversive adult Disneyland.” 

The Museum of Old and New Art, to use its full name, is accessed by car or ferry, with ferries heading out from Frank Street Pier. 

For many that visit Tasmania, and certainly Hobart, this is certainly one of the highlights. Visit the MONDA website for more info!

This is when Tasmania’s history with the Western world truly began. Port Arthur Historic Site began life as a lumber camp in 1830.

However between 1833 until its cessation in 1853, it was the destination for thousands of convicts. 

It became the home of many of Britain’s most hardened criminals and those who had reoffended since being transported to Australia.

Port Arthur Historic Site is a Unesco World Heritage site that demonstrates its important place in both Australia and Tasmania’s history. 

The site is extremely well preserved and does an incredible job of explaining the importance of the site and the legacy of Britain’s penal colonies on Australia.

Port Arthur Historic Site follows the entire history of transportation as punishment and how this policy impacted Australia and its growing foreign population.

Simply put this is one of the most important and iconic sites in Australia. 

There is more than enough to keep you busy for a day and although it is certainly doable as a day trip from Hobart, staying the night allows you to explore the Tasman Peninsula the next day. 

A Port Arthur ghost tour is a popular way to experience the historic site. A ghost tour runs after dark and highlights all the mysteries and spooky stories from the past. Visit this website to learn more about a Port Arthur ghost tour.

Connected to “mainland” Tasmania by the thinnest stretches of land at the Eagles Neck (one of the reasons why Port Arthur was considered to be an inescapable prison) the Tasman Peninsula is home to some excellent historical sites and spectacular coastal scenery, especially for those who choose to hike the Three Capes Track .

Up in the northwest coast of the peninsula, you will find the Lime Bay Coalmines .

It was here many convicts and later miners were put to work in often atrocious conditions.

The surrounding area is home to plenty of deserted walking trails and rugged coastlines that are ideal for a road trip. 

If you are feeling peckish then head to the tiny village of Doo Town where there is an exceptional fish and chip van next to the Tasman Blow Hole . 

This quirky little seaside town where every house name begins with Doo, is located right on the coast so expect to find plenty of awesome coastal views!

The area surrounding the Devil’s Kitchen , a short drive from Doo Town is home to some lovely views, which on a wet and windy day give the impression that you are stood at the edge of the world.   

Launceston and Around

Launceston is another favourite spot to visit in Tasmania, and you’ll fall in love with its laid-back vibe.

It’s also a great place to use as a base when exploring all of the other epic Tasmania activities!

Lovely little Launceston, Tasmania’s second city, is home to a few sites that are worth checking out such as Cataract Gorge and the charming city centre.

Its most noteworthy site is the lovely Cataract Gorge which is home to some nice walking trails and a great swimming area. Taking a dip in Cataract Gorge as the summer is setting on summer’s day is a particularly lovely experience.

Central Launceston is home to some lovely museums, breweries, restaurants, and art galleries if you fancy some indoor activities.

It’s also a great place to base yourself to go and explore the Tamar Valley and the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail once you’ve finished exploring Cataract Gorge.

From Launceston, this valley runs north for 64 kilometres taking in some lovely rolling hills, quirky wildlife parks and a rather spectacular bakery.

Head up towards Beauty Point at the northern end of the valley where you will find Seahorse World and the Platypus House .

The platypus house allows you to see the world’s only two monotremes up close and personal. The enclosures give you an opportunity to observe Platypus interacting and playing with one another. Spotting them in the wild is incredibly rare so getting the opportunity to see these awesome creatures close up is a great experience.

The Tamar Valley is also home to a few wineries most notably Velo Wines and the Ninth Island Vineyard .

If you fancy learning about the area’s mining industry then head further up the coast and explore the Beaconsfield Mine , one of the richest small gold mines in Australia. 

Halfway up the Tamar Valley on the western side, you will find the small town of Exeter which is home to the incredible Exeter Bakery serving a mind-boggling assortment of pies – the perfect Australian road trip snack.

If you are into food then this is absolutey one of the top things to do in Tasmania.

This trail runs from the Launceston area all the way up to the northern coastal town of Stanley.

It consists of a collection of gourmet producers selling their wares in their own restaurants and farm shops. 

The food is phenomenal and solidifies Tasmania’s reputation as a gourmet goldmine. 

There are 33 producers in total, and of course, it’s not possible to visit them all.

However, I would definitely recommend Melta Honey Farm, 41° South Salmon and Ginseng, Van Diemens Land Creamery, The Raspberry Farm Cafe, Ashgrove Cheese (the wasabi cheese is mind-blowing), House of Anvers and Hursey Seafoods up in Stanley. 

Get ready to enjoy some of Tasmania’s most delicious produce. 

Northern Tasmania

Let’s keep on travelling around now and check out the best things to do in Northern Tasmania.

Jutting out from the mainland like a crooked finger is the tiny village of Stanley.

Sticking out on a split from the mainland and being almost entirely surrounded by the ocean gives Stanley a uniquely desolate feel.   

Its most famous and prominent feature is a huge rocky outcrop called the Nut . The views from the top, particularly at sunset are spectacular. 

The final destination on the Cradle to Coast is the excellent Hursey Seafood located at the base of the Nut serving a wide variety of excellent seafood. 

After chowing down on some incredible seafood head up to the Nut to hike along the Nut summit circuit to work off the calories and take in some spectacular sunset views.

This gorgeous beach resort is sort of a hidden gem along Tasmania’s northern coast.

Reasonably well known amongst Tasmanians it’s very much of the beaten track for everyone else. 

There are numerous awesome accommodation options along with the beachfront offering the perfect place for some rest and relaxation. 

The waves aren’t anywhere near the size of what the island’s east coast has to offer, this really is more of a place to relax, take a dip and enjoy the scenery. 

Welcome to one of Tasmania’s most unusual National Parks. The national park is home to over 300 known caves and sinkholes. 

Numerous public caves can be visited independently as well as caves that you will need to a tour to access.

This is certainly one of Tasmania’s more unique attractions. 

One of the wildest and most remote parts of Tasmania is the incredible Tarkine, home to old-growth forests, crazy beaches, and fascinating Aboriginal history.

The best way to explore it is with your own car on a road trip.

Click here to read our detailed guide on driving the Tarkine.

Cradle Mountain National Park and Around

Arguably the top Tasmania attraction, Cradle Mountain National Park should not be missed when exploring the island.

If you’re not sure what to do in Tasmania, then this is one of the first things that should be added to your itinerary. 

This may be the most famous of the Tasmania attractions. At the heart of this national park is the absolutely stunning Cradle Mountain.

It is also here where the famous Overland Track hike begins.  The Overland Track is one of the world’s most famous hikes, so consider this hike if you’re a fitness and nature enthusiast.

Due to the park’s isolated nature, it is best to stay within its borders to avoid long daily drives.

As with Freycinet, you will need a Parks Pass to park your vehicle here. 

Getting around the national park can be a bit of a pain. There is one main road that will bring you down to the Dove Lake car park , and a couple of other smaller ones.

These car parks are the starting point for several excellent hikes.

However, as you would expect, spaces are limited so your other option is to park at the ranger station and catch the free bus tour to the place of your choice.

If you get in early enough however you obviously have more chance of getting a space.

The area around the Mountain is possibly the most spectacular area of the national park. It is home to numerous hiking trails varying between light strolls and epic ascents. 

The Dove Lake circuit takes you around Dove Lake (unsurprisingly) which sits at the base of Cradle Mountain.

It is this trail that is home to the boathouse which offers one of the most famous photos in Tasmania.

The hike is very easy and should take you a couple of hours. 

READ MORE: Check out this guide to hiking and camping in Tasmania !

There is an excellent trail that combines Marion’s Lookout, the Cradle Mountain Summit, Lake Wilks and part of the Dove Lake Circuit .

It should take around 6 hours and you do need to be reasonably fit as there are some extremely steep ascents and some serious scrambling on the track up to the summit.

If it is wet or icy, do not attempt the summit track as it is extremely dangerous. 

From Dove Lake, the car park takes the right-hand route of the track past the boathouse. Follow this until there is a right-hand turn leading up a steep track to Marion’s lookout .

Follow this track all the way to the base of Cradle Mountain. From here it is more about scrambling and bouldering than hiking.

However, the summit does offer some amazing views and is a great point to take a break.

Head down from the summit and bear right, running along the base of Cradle Mountain and then take a left down past Lake Wilks and then follow this back onto the Dove Lake circuit. Simply incredible. 

These quaint little towns are a true demonstration of Tasmania’s rugged and wild west, with a testament to the riches that lay beneath the ground.

As you roll in along the Lyell highway into Queenstown you will see the legacy mining has had on this region of the island. 

Queenstown certainly retains that pioneer town feel, and at one point it was the world’s richest mining town.

Naturally, this has left its mark on the surrounding landscape. The ‘moonscape’ could not be more different than other parts of Tasmania.

However, it gives the town a slightly surreal feeling, similar to that of Coober Peedy (the famous opal mining site) in South Australia.

There are a couple of art galleries and viewpoints nearby. However, for a real pioneer feel, stay at the Empire Hotel in Central Queenstown. Great value with excellent food to boot. 

Straughn is harbourside village near the Gordon River offering a very different experience to Queenstown.

From here there are numerous cruises down the stunning Gordon River or out Sarah Island which was once home to a convict prison.

Additionally, there are numerous wild ocean beaches around Strahan. Head out to the Henty Dunes 14km from Strahan to see some of these 30m high sand dunes!  

If you want to further explore the west coast while visiting Tasmania, consider hopping on the West Coast Wilderness Railway to see the landscape by train.

Southern Tasmania

Let’s head south now!

Perched on the very edge of civilisation, Hastings Caves offers spectacular caves and some lovely thermal springs. 

Although it’s only a 90-minute drive from Hobart it is perched on the edge of The Tasmanian Wilderness Area . 

Just over an hour south of Hobart is the gorgeous Bruny Island. Unlike its contemporary, Maria Island, in the East, cars are allowed.

With so many incredible things to do in Bruny Island , it’s no wonder it features highly on our list.

There are regular ferries that make the short journey over from the village of Kettering . 

Bruny Island is almost two separate islands, albeit with a narrow 5km long stretch of land known as the Neck linking them together.

The island’s coastal scenery is magical and with numerous walking trails all over the island, there is certainly no shortage of things to do. 

The southern portion of the island is more commonly known as the South Bruny National Park and is home to the island’s best hiking trails and beaches.

The area surrounding Adventure Bay is home to a  fair few trails and is definitely worth checking out. The trail from Fluted Cape to Grass Point is particularly nice. 

It is possible to stay on the island. However, it is a popular option with many travellers so you will need to book in advance!

If you don’t get a spot to stay on the island, you can still go there as a day tour from Hobart .

Bruny Island is famous for its wildlife including penguins, echidnas, and numerous birds.

If you take a wildlife cruise then you are likely to come across the numerous seals and dolphins that call the waters surrounding Bruny Island home. Adventure Bay in the south is a great place to head out from!

Located in the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness Area, this is Tasmania at its most rugged and remote.

There are two ways to get here: by foot or by boat. You can charter boats or even hike out to one of the world’s last true wildernesses.

Charting a boat around Port Davey will allow you to experience spectacular scenery and true isolation.

Tasmania Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do on the island, here’s my little secret mini guide for where to stay and what to eat.

Best Accommodation in Tasmania

Obviously, I can’t list every place to stay around the whole island. But here’s my personal recommendation for accommodation if you want to have some cool experiences.

This excellent hostel in Hobart is a popular spot for tourists visiting the Apple Isle.

Located in the heart of Hobart, it is a short walk from Battery Point and Salamanca Market making it an excellent choice. 

Offering both dorms and privates it a great option for both solo travellers and couples. 

This excellent little holiday park in Scamander offers all the perks that one would expect from a good Australian holiday park.

However, it’s the glamping options here that make this such a good choice. 

This is an excellent location close to a number of excellent beaches. And a 40-minute drive up to the Bay of Fires make this an excellent option if you want to avoid the crowds around Binalong Bay and St Helens.

This amazing hotel is ideally located a short drive from Dove Lake.

Offering plenty of luxuries and great food options this is a great option for anyone heading to Cradle Mountain.

Eating in Tasmania

Finally, here’s my list of the best places to eat in Tasmania

The Exeter Bakery is affordable and delicious. Located in the Tamar Valley this is a great place to enjoy a classic Aussie pie. 

Not really a single location here, but pretty much any of the options on the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail make an excellent mid-range eating option. 

Located at the end (or beginning depending on how you look at it) of the Cradle to Coast Tasting trail Hursey Seafood restaurant serves a menagerie of ocean critters. 

Not everything is in the luxury price bracket. However, if you fancy some crab or lobster then be prepared to take a big jump into that territory. 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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The Ultimate Tasmania Bucket List: Best Places to Visit in Tasmania 

If Tasmania, the beautiful and often overlooked island state of Australia, isn’t already on your list of must-see destinations this guide is about to change that. This stunningly unique and unforgettable travel destination offers nature lovers, adventures and anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime stay in one of the world’s most beautiful islands an experience unlike any other.  

From its breath-taking wilderness to its variety of endearing towns and villages, Tasmania is a place that truly has something for everyone. The sheer amount of hidden gems, thrilling travel experiences, and unique things to do is sure to delight every kind of traveller and tourist there is. This ultimate Tasmania bucket list will serve as a guide to help anyone planning a trip to the island make the most of the experience and avoid missing out on some of the area’s most iconic natural and cultural landmarks.  

Explore the stunning landscapes of Cradle Mountain  

According to the travel experts at  Tasmania.com , Cradle Mountain is an absolute must for anyone who loves to be outdoors. The mountain itself is said to be derived from the mountain’s resemblance to a miner’s cradle. Its unique name and even more unique shape creates a striking and dramatic vista that travellers to the area will be able to enjoy as they walk or hike to view the many waterfalls and river gorges that give the location its beauty.  

Experience the thrill of hiking the Overland Track  

Adventurous hiking enthusiasts near  Cradle Mountain  could consider embarking on the famous Overland Track which consists of a multi-day, 65-kilometre trail and takes anyone brave enough to follow its path through some of the island’s most stunning natural landscapes. The trail itself includes glacial lakes, alpine meadows and ancient rainforests.  

Discover the picturesque beauty of Freycinet National Park  

If a visit to the beach is a top priority, consider visiting Freycinet National Park which is located on the east coast of Tasmania. Renowned for its gorgeous white sandy beaches, dramatic granite peaks and crystal-clear turquoise waters, the park offers a wide range of activities for travellers of all ages.  

Visitors to the area can enjoy a wide range of activities including leisurely strolls on the beach, swimming, kayaking or snorkelling to catch a glimpse of the bay’s unique and abundant wildlife. Photography enthusiasts will delight in the stunning vistas and striking panoramic views of the entire park if they brave the challenging climb to the summit of Mount Amos.  

Enjoy the vibrant art scene in Hobart  

When arriving on the island, be sure to spend some time exploring its capital city Hobart. The location is renowned for its vibrant art scene, delicious cuisine and rich history. Art enthusiasts should make an effort to visit the Museum of Old and New Art to view contemporary art and feast their eyes on the various works on display throughout the year.  

The city itself is home to a variety of museums, art galleries and seasonal cultural events. When shopping for souvenirs, the Salamanca Market is a popular location to find the best local arts and crafts, fresh produce and delicious food. Fans of good food should know that the city is famous for its exceptionally fresh seafood, fresh local produce and array of farm-to-table dining experiences.  

Take a scenic drive along the Great Eastern Drive  

If the island is being explored by car, the Great Eastern Drive is a must. The scenic coastal road stretches all the way from Orford to St Helens and offers some of the best views of Tasmania’s east coast. The road allows drivers to stop at stunning beaches, delightfully charming seaside towns and a few of the best national parks.  

During the drive, don’t miss out on unique chances to indulge in fresh seafood and visit local landmarks at any of the villages along the way. Consider stopping at a coastal town and taking a boat tour for a chance to witness dolphins, seals, migrating whales and other marine life depending on the season.  

Visit the historic Port Arthur and learn about Tasmania’s convict past  

History buffs will find lots to discover at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site Port Arthur. This area of Tasmania offers travellers a glimpse into the island’s storied convict past and offers many fascinating opportunities to learn. Visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings or take a chilling guided ghost tour to hear stories of the hauntings and paranormal activities surrounding the site.  

Indulge in delicious food and wine at the Tamar Valley Wine Route  

If rest and relaxation is needed after exploring the breathtaking sites of the island, the Tamar Valley Wine Route is the most ideal place to indulge in a wide variety of locally-produced culinary delights. The wine region of Tasmania is located just outside of Launceston and is the home of the nation’s pinot noir, chardonnay and other cool-climate wines.   

Be sure to visit the numerous wineries in the area to enjoy wine tastings, and savour gourmet meals paired with local produce at any of the wineries exceptional on-site restaurants. The Tamar Valley Wine Route is paradise for anyone who enjoys leisurely lunch or dinner experiences while overlooking picturesque vineyards and stunning vistas.  

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The Best Things to do in Tasmania (top 50)

Updated April 2022

How do you decide the best things to do on a little island so vast as Tasmania? Well, you go out there and explore it of course! For years I have been re-visiting and re-exploring Tasmania, now having finally compiled a list of the absolute best things to do in Tasmania . But before you go booking that plane ticket, remember Tasmania is full of great things to see and do. So much so, that we’ve got no fewer than 50 best things to do in Tasmania. So be sure to allow yourself at least a couple of weeks on the island. Here we go!

The Best Things to do in Tasmania

1. wineglass bay, freycinet national park.

Surely nothing beats this view. You can hike to the visitor’s platform for a great view over wineglass bay, or tackle the harder (but better views) hike to the top of Mt. Amos. Or if you want to grab a birds-eye view, book yourself on a scenic flight over Freycinet for as low as $175 per person. It is a small price to pay for a million-dollar view!

2. Kick Back in the World’s Most Scenic Bathtub

Because who wouldn’t want to go off the grid for a few days and unwind in quite possibly Australia’s most scenic bathtub. And by now I’m sure you’re wondering, where is it located? Known as Thalia Haven, this private luxury rental hosts enough bedrooms to sleep a bunch of friends, couples, or even a small private wedding. There is a full kitchen available for guests, meaning you can really tuck away here for complete seclusion.

Read more: Checking in to Thalia Haven

3. Run Through the Lavender Fields at Bridestowe Estate

If you’re visiting Tassie at the beginning of the year, be sure not to miss these impressive lavender fields in the North of Tasmania at Bridestowe Estate. While the fields usually bloom in February, the season can sometimes be brought forward to late January – be sure to check out their website to stay up to date!

Stay: Hotel Verge in Launceston

4. The Hazards

Also located inside the Freycinet National Park is a chain of mountains like no others. They have been named The Hazards. Golden Hour (The hour before sunset) is absolutely magical but really any time here is unforgettable. To make the most of your stay, you can check in to Saffire Freycinet for the ultimate luxury Tasmanian experience.

Stay: Freycinet Lodge

5. Bay of Fires

What better name for a bay that truly looks as if it is alive with fire, ideally set beside the ocean on Tasmania’s East Coast!? The Bay of Fires is a short drive from the township of St Helens, on the East Coast of Tasmania. A great itinerary is to drive from Hobart through the East Coast and onwards to Launceston to end your trip. There is a great range of AirBnBs in the area which will give you a more localised experience.

Stay: Bay of Fires Bush Retreat

6. Tulip Farm, Table Cape

If you find yourself visiting Tasmania during the month of October, be sure to time your visit to allow for a visit to the “Bloomin’ Tulips festival” – a festival where the tulip farm on the Northwest Coast of Tasmania comes to life in full bloom. (Image: Tourism Tasmania ).

7. Cradle Mountain National Park

As one of Tasmania’s most visited and most renowned attractions, a visit to the main midlands National Park, Cradle Mountain National Park , is an absolute must. There are a range of day walks for visitors to enjoy, or alternatively, you can set off on the famous multi-day trek, The Overland Track . 

Stay: Cradle Mountain Village

8. Visit King Island off the coast of Tasmania

If you fancy visiting an island off the island, then you have options in abundance off the coast of Tasmania! The two most populated islands are King Island (pictured) and Flinders Island. Each offers something different to travellers, but I think there is no better place than King Island for an isolated escape. The newly opened Kittawa Lodge is sure to hit the right spot, with sweeping views of the coastline and wallabies in abundance to watch as the day passes by.

Read more: A review of my stay at Kittawa Lodge

9. Visit Charlie’s Dessert Restaurant

You read that right – Tasmania has its very own dessert restaurant that serves only desserts, 12 hours a day! Charlie’s Dessert House is located in Launceston, the second-largest city on the island. Drop by on your way to the Cataract Gorge or the nearby Bridestowe Lavender Farm.

Get directions

10. Climb “The Nut”

Because where else can you say you have climbed  a nut! The walk to the top is only a 15-20 minute trek (albeit a steep one), and the views on the way up and once at the top are hard to beat. To stay in the idyllic seaside town, check yourself into one of the many AirBnBs on offer. Our favourite is the Little Talisker Cottage in the centre of the seaside town.

Stay: Ship Inn Stanley (wow favourite!)

11. Check in to the “World’s Best Boutique Hotel”

Recently this uber-luxe resort, Saffire Freycinet , was dubbed the world’s best boutique hotel. If you’ve been lucky enough to stay there, you’ll understand exactly why! While rooms don’t come cheap, they do include all meals (including a 6-course degustation dinner with matched wines) AND an all-inclusive free mini-bar. Winning! (Image: Saffire Freycinet).

12. Museum of Old & New Art (MONA)

This museum made headlines when it first opened in January of 2011… years on and the captivating headlines are yet to subside. This artsy building is even more impressive on the inside when you view the controversial, quirky and sometimes just downright crazy exhibitions on offer. Totally worth a visit! Plus if you’re a Tasmanian, you enter for free!

Stay: Macq 01 Hobart

13. Visit the exclusive Satellite Island

This small private island is home to one of Tasmania’s most exclusive accommodations on offer and is one of the most remote locations on earth to find yourself. It’s such a secret that most locals don’t even know it exists! Be sure to plan your stay in advance as this is one of the most sought after accommodation locations in Tasmania. (Image: Satellite Island).

14. See the Maria Island Painted Cliffs

Hiding neatly away on Maria Island are Tasmania’s painted cliffs, a favourite among photographers and nature enthusiasts. The best time of day to see the painted cliffs is for sunset, so be sure to book yourself an overnight stay on the island if you wish to capture them in their best light.

15. Stand at the top of “The Neck” Bruny Island

…Because who wouldn’t want to stand here!? Bruny Island is a short ferry ride from the mainland, with the departure point at Kettering just an hours drive from Hobart, Tasmania’s capital. Once you arrive on the island, there’s plenty of local hot spots to discover including fresh seasonal produce from local producers, with seafood and Bruny Island cheese being top choices. Get ready to be spoiled for choice! We recommend stay a night or two to really switch on to island time.

Stay: Adventure Bay Retreat Bruny Island

16. Take the plunge at Derby’s Floating Sauna

Would you dare take the plunge into a freshwater lake after a steamy sauna? Well, at the Derby floating sauna you can do just that! Located in the Northeast of Tasmania, this is quickly becoming one of the most iconic activities to do in Tasmania. The floating sauna was originally created as a treat for mountain bikers to indulge in after their ride but has now become a destination in itself.

17. Traverse the Tamar Valley Wine Region

What could be better than sipping a glass of Sauvignon Blanc amidst the rolling hills of the Tamar Valley? Here you will be spoiled with an array of award-winning wineries with inviting cellar doors. Pictured: Josef Chromy’s. And while you’re at it, don’t miss the newly opened Havilah Wine Bar in Launceston’s city centre. They offer a local wine list and a selection of cheeses and local produce.

18. Visit the Tessellated Pavement

There are a few hidden gems located on the rugged coastline of Tasmania, one of these being the tessellated pavement located in the Eagle Hawk Neck region. This location is best visited on a visit to Port Arthur Historic Site – Tasmania’s most visited attraction.

19. Eat an Entire Menu of Raspberry Everything

….I’m talking raspberry Eggs Benedict, raspberry scones, raspberry meringues, and much more. The Raspberry farm is a great pit stop between Launceston and Devonport for the roadtrippers out there!

20. Visit a Town Named Penguin

Penguin is a town located on the north-west coast not too far from a town called Devonport. If you are arriving in Tasmania by ferry, this your port of entry into Tasmania. The town has a novel penguin that is larger than life and a great stopover for families.

21. Admire Nature at the Tasman Arch

Tassie is a true testament to the wild and whacky wonderfulness of nature. A road trip is without a doubt the best way to get around, as you’ll find many worthy stops along the way. The Tasman Arch is located on Tasmania’s Southern Peninsula, around the Eaglehawk Neck region. Signs will point the way to this and a number of other attractions in the immediate area. And if you’re looking for more activities on offer in this region of Tasmania, consider your holiday expert, KKday Australia who have a range of day trips and multi-day trips on offer in Tasmania.

22. Enter the Wilderness via Railway

The West Coast Wilderness Railway is perhaps as close as one will get to a trip on the Hogwarts Express without actually travelling to Scotland to hop on board the real deal. (Image: Supplied)

23. Check yourself into the Pumphouse Point Hotel

This hotel has quickly become one of the world’s most instagrammable hotels. I mean, who couldn’t see themselves here!? Room rates start at $495 per room, per night. Be sure to book in advance as this is one of Tasmania’s most sought after hotels. (Image via Pumphouse Point )

24. Visit Switzerland in a Day

Yep, you heard it here first. A visit to Tasmania is also a visit to Switzerland when you make a short 15-minute drive North along the Tamar Valley from Launceston to the Swiss Village named “ Grindelwald “. (Image via Northern Tasmania).

25. Cruise through the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

This idyllic national park is renowned for being home to one of Tassie’s most loved attractions – a scenic cruise down the Franklin-Gordon River (Image via Gordon River Cruises ).

26. Play Golf on one of the World’s Most Scenic Courses

Barnbougle Lost Farm is located in the North of the state, making these courses a popular stop for international jet setters who fly in via private jet… But you needn’t have a jet to play here! This course is in fact a public course and anyone can play here, although you might want to brush up at the driving range before tackling it in public!!! (Image via Air Swings ).

27. Walk the Three Capes Track

The newest of Tasmania’s walks, the “Three Capes Track” opened in 2015 and has been a real hit the Aussies visiting from overstate and is slowly drawing an international crowd. Believe me when I say it is worth every step for those coastal views!!!

28. Stand atop Mount Wellington

The capital city of Tasmania, Hobart, is full of surprises – perhaps none more photographic and impressive than a trip to the Mount Wellington observation deck in the evening to admire the city from above (images via Instagram @watermelonaddict).

29. See the Southern Aurora Australis

Forget travelling thousands of miles in search of the Northern Lights when you have the Southern Aurora Australis right here! (Image via Instagram @kimmaischphotography).

30. Stroll Along Australia’s Oldest Bridge in Richmond

A nice little pitstop just outside of Hobart is one of Tasmania’s most quaint and charming towns; Richmond. Be sure to stop for some scones in one of the many cafes and walk it off with a wander along Australia’s oldest bridge; Richmond Bridge.

31. Join a Ghost Tour at Port Arthur

If you dare, Port Arthur is rumoured to have one of the spookiest night ghost tours on offer inside the remains of what was once a convict prison. You can also visit Port Arthur for a day visit, however it is very popular over the summer season.

32. Visit the Northern Midlands

Once you’re ready to slow down and enjoy the journey more than the destinations, take some time to enjoy the Northern Midlands. This part of Tasmania went overlooked by tourists for quite some time, who mostly just made a pit stop in Launceston, often en route to Bridestowe Lavender Farm. But nowadays, this area has had a complete revival – of farm stays and luxury AirBnB’s just ripe for the taking.

33. Check in to Captain’s Rest Cabin

One thing is for sure when visiting Tasmania: there is no shortage of incredible boutique places to stay. Captain’s Rest is the epitome of a Tasmanian lifestyle, captured inside this beautiful one-bedroom cabin. There is usually a few months waitlist for a stay, so be sure to plan ahead!

34. Sift Through the Goodies at the Salamanca Market

Salamanca Market is located on Hobart’s waterfront and opens every Saturday of the year – rain, hail, or shine. The market offers some fantastic local produce, handicrafts, and local talented artists.

35. Walk on Air

It’s not every day you get to walk on air… so why not schedule in a visit to the Tahune Forest airwalk to really get a grip on Tassie’s wildlife and wilderness.

36. Blue Derby Mountain Bike Trails

A recent addition to the top 50 things to do in Tasmania is the newly opened Blue Derby mountain bike trails – this image says it all! There are over 100km of mountain bike trails in the network and you can even stay inside a pod for a 3-day ultimate tour if you’re really keen to hit the trails hard!

37. Walk Through The Cataract Gorge at the Centre of the City of Launceston

The locals of Launceston are lucky enough to call this their public backyard… and yep, it’s right in the centre of town! The Cataract Gorge has a few entrances. Depending on what you are after, you can walk into the gorge from the heart of Launceston in a matter of minutes. You could then take the chairlift for a scenic experience, or walk around the gorge in a loop before making your way back to town.

38. Overlook Lake Oberon, Western Arthur Range

If you packed your hiking boots and are ready to hit the trails, make your way to the Western Arthur Range for some great trails off the beaten tourist path (Image via Instagram @natureloverswalks)

39. Check in to one of Tasmania’s best shacks

Shack culture is big in Tasmania and not just for locals to escape the cities on weekends. In fact, one of the most thriving businesses in Tasmania since the pandemic has been to buy and renovate a beach shack, place it on AirBnB and treat it like a hotel of sorts. And the result? Some incredible beach shacks are available for you to rent!

Read more: The 50 Best Places to Stay in Tasmania

40. Marvel at Russel Falls

This picture says it all. Russel Falls aren’t one of the most known waterfalls to visit in the state, but this picture certainly suggests otherwise! (Image via Instagram @tassiegrammer).

41. Strathgordon Dam

Care for a quick abseil down!? That’s right, you totally can! The dam is a two hour drive from Hobart if you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary.

42. Zip Through the Trees at Hollybank

This treetop adventure is a fave among the families – and it’s not hard to see why! You can reach the Hollybank treetops adventures from Launceston by car, in about 20 minutes.

43. Hike to Montezuma Falls

Make your way into the wilderness, traverse a rickety swinging bridge, and find yourself at the glorious Montezuma Falls. They’re located in the West of the island, so be sure to pair with a visit to Strahan and Queenstown.

44. Kayak Bathurst Harbour

What better way to experience untouched beauty than to glide along with it!? Visit Roaring 40s Kayaking to learn about more of their one-day and multi-day kayaking adventures! (Image via Instagram @AdventureTasmania).

45. Visit the Tasman Peninsula

Many of the locations named are in and around the Tasman peninsula, but have you considered just how equally beauty the area is in itself!? (Image via Instagram @crispy_scapes).

46. Drive the Winding Road to Queenstown

…Because where else in the world could you feel so completely off the grid than the rugged West Coast!? (Image via Instagram @sandra_celebrate).

47. Fly over Horseshoe Bend on the Gordon River

There’s no doubt the Gordon River is stunning on a river cruise, but how about flying over to site the photogenic Horseshoe Bend from above (Image via Instagram @chrisbrayphotography).

48. Watch the Sea Sparkle

Well there’s real life and then there’s…… IS THIS EVEN REAL LIFE!? In fact, it is. Here’s the story behind the photo to prove it: @Helenawisby123

49. Walk Through this Natural Rock Arch on Bruny Island

And then there’s this natural rock arch on the Bruny Island Cape Elizabeth track… As if you needed any more convincing to get yourself down to Tassie!

50. Enjoy the journey

The beauty of Tasmania is in the journey itself. So pack your bags and get ready for a slow journey through this versatile island. There’s enough to see and do to warrant a few weeks on the island, so be sure to take it slow!

Like this? Now read:

The Best Hikes in Tasmania: A Complete guide

The Ultimate Tasmanian Road Trip

Tasmania’s Best AirBnB’s: Checking In to Whale Song Shack

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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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Must-see attractions in Tasmania

Freycinet National Park

The East Coast

Framed by some of the state's finest beaches and rising into spectacular low mountains, Freycinet incorporates the southern end of Freycinet Peninsula,…

Twelve kilometres north of Hobart's city centre, MONA is burrowed into the Triassic sandstone of a peninsula jutting into the Derwent River. Arrayed…

Salamanca Place

This picturesque row of three- and four-storey sandstone warehouses is a classic example of Australian colonial architecture. Dating back to the whaling…

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Cradle Country & The West

Part of the World Heritage–listed Tasmanian Wilderness, this 1614-sq-km national park incorporates the state's most famous mountain (the eponymous Cradle…

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

This World Heritage–listed national park came to prominence when the wild Franklin River was very publicly saved from hydroelectric immersion in the 1980s…

Kunanyi/Mt Wellington

Ribbed with its striking Organ Pipes cliffs, kunanyi/Mt Wellington (1271m) towers over Hobart like a benevolent overlord. The view from the top stretches…

Cataract Gorge

At magnificent Cataract Gorge, right at the city centre's edge, the bushland, cliffs and ice-cold South Esk River feel a million miles from town. At First…

Cascade Brewery

Standing in startling, Gothic isolation next to the clean-running Hobart Rivulet, Australia’s oldest brewery (1824) is still pumping out superb beers. The…

Battery Point

Tucked in behind Salamanca Pl, the old maritime village of Battery Point is a tight nest of lanes and 19th-century cottages. Spend an afternoon exploring:…

Woolmers Estate

Part of the Unesco World Heritage Australian Convict Sites listing, this pastoral estate on the Macquarie River was built by Thomas Archer in 1817 and…

Cascades Female Factory Historic Site

This World Heritage Site was where Hobart’s female convicts were incarcerated and put to work. Around 12,500 women were transported to Tasmania, and at…

Marakoopa Cave

The name Marakoopa derives from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘handsome’ and this cave well and truly lives up to its moniker, featuring a subterranean world…

Willie Smith's Apple Shed

The Southeast

At Grove, 5km north of Huonville, this barn-like wooden shed is home to Willie Smith's Organic Apple Cider, and functions as a cafe-cum-provedore-cum…

Liffey Falls

Pouring through Liffey Falls State Reserve, part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, is one of Tasmania's most classically beautiful…

North Hobart

Hobart at its most bohemian, the Elizabeth St strip in North Hobart (aka NoHo) is lined with dozens of cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs – enough to keep…

This 1838 mansion on the banks of the South Esk River, built for wealthy wool grower and merchant James Cox, is a Georgian gem that looks like it’s…

Mole Creek Karst National Park

This park's major draws are Marakoopa Cave and King Solomons Cave, which can be visited on tours operated by the Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife Service…

Bass & Flinders Centre

Undoubtedly the highlight of a visit to George Town, this small museum in a former cinema houses a red-sailed, full-size replica of the Norfolk, the sloop…

Highfield Historic Site

Built in 1835 for the chief agent of the Van Diemen’s Land Company, this homestead, poised 2km north of town, is an exceptional example of domestic…

Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery

Incorporating Tasmania's oldest surviving public building, the Commissariat Store (1808), TMAG features Aboriginal and colonial relics and an excellent…

Southwest National Park

One of the planet’s last great isolated wilderness areas, this 6000-plus-sq-km national park, Tasmania’s largest, is home to some of the island's last…

Salamanca Arts Centre

The nonprofit Salamanca Arts Centre has been here since 1977 and occupies seven Salamanca warehouses. It's home to dozens of arts organisations and…

Channel Heritage Centre

This fabulous community-owned museum on the roadside just south of central Margate is well worth a stop. A series of intimate, passionately curated…

Devil’s Corner

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Platypus House

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Hartz Mountains National Park

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Queen Victoria Museum

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Burnie Regional Museum

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Queen Victoria Art Gallery

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Friendly Beaches

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Spiky Bridge

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Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

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Hastings Caves & Thermal Springs

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Walls of Jerusalem National Park

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What to do in Tasmania: our highlights guide

• Freycinet National Park

By Australia specialist Haley

While Tasmania might not receive as much as attention as other parts of Australia, it truly merits your exploration. With a concentration of celebrated Australian wilderness and wildlife, this island is a winning destination in its own right.

The western side is all verdurous mountains and highland lakes, the east is striated with huge cliff faces and beaches that rival any of the mainland’s sandy offerings. Its capital, Hobart, has a historical feel — more akin to a European city than those found on the Australian mainland. And its food? Some of Australia’s finest with a burgeoning foodie scene, award-winning whiskey distilleries, and a slew of new restaurants.

Tasmania is all about experiential travel, so what I’d really like to share here are some of the best quintessentially Tasmanian experiences you could base your trip around. They range from cultural visits to hiking routes along wild coastlines and exploring the island’s convict history to some of the best wildlife watching I’ve ever done.

Walking in Tasmania

Tasmania’s wild scenery is best experienced on the island’s extensive walking trails. There are more multi-day walks here – known as the Great Walks of Australia – than in all of the mainland. For instance, on the island’s western flank, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a wilderness of weathered moorland, deciduous beech forest, sedgelands, and glacially fed lakes, overlooked by the dolerite columns of Cradle Mountain itself.

You can take an arduous scramble over scree to summit the mountain, but a better option is the Dove Lake Circuit, a moderate hike that takes about two and a half hours. It’s suitable for almost all fitness levels. You follow a loop track around the glassy lake, passing through a variety of terrain with clear views over Cradle Mountain’s spiky saddle.

Set off early because it’s the most popular walk in the park, and with good reason. At one point, you lose sight of the mountain as you enter a cool stretch of gum forest that looks like it has been dipped in mosses. Walking through it is like entering some hushed faerie realm. The route is also peppered with benches for sitting and admiring the views.

The Freycinet Peninsula, over on the east coast, also offers rewarding hiking. Wineglass Bay, an elegant crescent of buttery-shaded sand, is the focal point of most walks in Freycinet National Park, which encompasses the entire peninsula. You can reach a lofty lookout point over the bay in about two hours via a steep uphill track.

It’s one of those walks where you don’t get any teasing glimpses of the endpoint — the big view — until you hit the very top. You’re mostly ascending through bush before the trail opens out and deposits you on an overlook. The ocean was still a sparkling turquoise when I last visited — and that was in August, in the depths of the Australian winter.

If you plan on spending time in Freycinet National Park , I strongly recommend supplementing your walking with a cruise around the peninsula. You’ll see seals thronging the foot of vertiginous limestone cliffs. Out to sea, there’s the chance to spot whales and dolphins, too. I saw eight humpback whales blowholing and showing off their fins just a little way from the boat, as well as a pod of dolphins playing in the bow waves.

The best of Tasmania’s food and drink

Tasmanians are very proud of their local produce. Just driving around the island, you’ll come across roadside apple carts selling crunchy fruits and locally brewed cider. The Tamar Valley in northern Tasmania, while lacking the worldwide acclaim of somewhere like the Barossa , has some excellent cellars and dairies.

In fact, you can start your Tasmanian food peregrination as soon as you land in Hobart. On Saturdays, its waterfront comes alive with Salamanca Market, a huge outdoor market selling artisan crafts and fresh produce. In Tasmania’s summertime (December to February), you can browse to the sounds of live music.

But what, specifically, should you eat? In Hobart , opt for seafood chowder. It’s good everywhere you go, but I especially enjoyed the creamy comfort food option served at the Drunken Admiral pub. For a high-end dining experience, book in at Peppina in the new Tasman Hotel, which serves up an authentic Italian menu (featuring farm-fresh ingredients, of course) curated up by its head chef who hails from Naples, Italy.

Just outside of Hobart is a much-talked about experimental restaurant called Van Bone where every item on the menu is prepared in fire. The restaurant’s minimalist architecture proves a stirring juxtaposition to the rolling countryside and wild coastline where it resides. Meanwhile, in Launceston  on the north end of the island, visit Black Cow Steakhouse for a taste of local Tasmanian grass-fed steaks.

Tasmania is also home to more than 50 whisky distilleries — one even supplies bottles to Barack Obama. The labels on the bottles are still glued on by hand, so the owners were rather surprised when the former US president tried to place an order (they ignored his emails at first, thinking it a hoax).

Then, if you have time, take a 20-minute ferry ride to nearby Bruny Island  — the ferry terminal is about a 45-minute drive from Hobart. Really two islands for the price of one conjoined by a sandy isthmus, Bruny is covered in eucalypt forest and does two things extremely well: oysters and cheese. You can go the whole hog and visit one of the island’s oyster farms or, as I did, just go in for a tasting of some freshly shucked, succulent specimens. The cheesemakers also offer tastings and fragrance their wares with herbs such as lavender.

Wildlife adventures in Tasmania

Whether it’s taking a private wildlife tour at Pepperbush to look for platypus and bandicoots, visiting wily Tasmanian devils at Cradle Mountain , or gazing through binoculars to spot wrens and raptors, Tasmania’s wildlife is rich — especially for such a small island.

On a tour at Devils@Cradle, the rangers explain the origin of the devils’ name: when the first settlers arrived on Tasmania and heard their screeching-baby cries, they feared that something diabolic was hiding out there in the bush.

While Tasmania might be known for its eponymous devils, other animals to look out for include fluffy wombats, which are surprisingly swift, and petite wallabies. As you head down for breakfast at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge , you might be lucky to see wombats sleepily wandering by after their nocturnal adventures.

I’d also recommend taking a boat journey deep into the World Heritage area through the ancient Huon pine forests and explore the little-known islands of Maria and Bruny, with their abundant wildlife and walking opportunities.

Exploring Tasmania’s culture and convict history

The foreboding former Alcatraz-like penitentiary of Port Arthur , about 90 minutes from Hobart  on the Tasman Peninsula, is what most people associate with convict history in Tasmania. It’s well worth a visit to this intriguing UNESCO World Heritage site to get a better understanding of the history that shaped this island.

Another World Heritage site in Tasmania on my list is the scenic port town of Strahan , set at the mouth of the limpid Gordon River. Here, you can visit Sarah Island in the middle of Strahan’s Macquarie Harbour, where some of Europe’s most wanted were put to work felling pine trees.

To delve deeper into Tasmania’s culture, visit the Mona (Museum of Old and New Art) in Hobart. The self-described ‘weird and wonderful’ museum started out as a small collection of antiquities and has expanded into an exhibition space as well as a base for live music, a well-stocked library, recording studio, and more. With places to eat and drink on site, it’s very easy to while away a day here basking in Tasmanian history and modern art exhibits alike.

Planning a trip to Tasmania

If you want to really experience everything Tasmania has to offer, I’d aim to spend around 10 to 14 days here — although, of course, shorter visits that focus on only a few areas are also possible. Tassie, as locals call it, can be easily explored via a loop that crosses parts of the island’s blissfully undeveloped interior.

Direct flights arrive into Hobart  from Sydney , Melbourne , Brisbane , and Perth . I’d begin your trip with a few days here, perhaps venturing out to Bruny Island , before driving northwest to Strahan . Then cut across east to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park , and continue to the northeast corner to spend a few days exploring the remote country around Scottsdale. You could then drive south down the island’s east coast, stopping off at Freycinet National Park  to explore Wineglass Bay.

Roads are winding, and although the distances aren’t huge, driving between places can take longer than your GPS device estimates. So try and leave yourself as long as possible, and enjoy the ride.

Start planning your trip to Tasmania 

Classic Tasmania self-drive tour

10 days from $3,270pp

Australia's great walks: Tasmania & Western Australia

15 days from $9,220pp

Ultimate luxury tour of Australia

17 days from $38,900pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They're just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• What to do in Australia: our highlights guide
• Driving vacations in Australia: beyond the Great Ocean Road
• Honeymoons in Australia: from Outback adventures to island havens
• Family vacations in Australia
• Shining a spotlight on South Australia's wildlife & landscapes

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Tasmania

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 24, 2023

For those who haven't visited Australia's smallest state, Tasmania or "Tassie," seems shrouded in mystique. Perhaps it's the state's far-flung location, some 300 kilometers south of the Australian mainland across stormy Bass Strait. Maybe it's the vast expanses of windswept wilderness. Almost half of Tasmania's land mass lies in national parks and World Heritage Areas, with sparkling alpine lakes, wild rivers, and mist-cloaked peaks.

Perhaps it's the bizarre wildlife – from real life Tasmanian devils to the extinct thylacine, the Tasmanian tiger. Or is it the haunting convict history and beautifully preserved heritage towns, which seem frozen in time? Today, this mystique lures more and more tourists who are discovering the island's many jewels.

Shaped appropriately like a heart, Tasmania is also a foodie's delight. Gloriously creamy cheeses, crisp fruits, and succulent seafood are just some of the mouthwatering local treats on offer, and hanging out at a waterfront café or restaurant is one of the top things to do in the port city of Hobart.

If you're looking for a unique way to arrive on the island, you can travel from Melbourne to Devonport by sea on the Spirit of Tasmania . Best of all, you can bring your car with you. If you choose this option, check out a Tasmania attractions map, and plot a scenic road-trip.

Explore this enchanting state with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Tasmania.

Explore Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park

Get a culture fix in hobart, port arthur historic site, hike through freycinet national park, see the views from kunanyi/mount wellington, tasman national park, walk the three capes track, cataract gorge, launceston, stroll around salamanca place, visit bruny island, mona museum and art gallery, mount field national park, franklin-gordon wild rivers national park, marvel at the scenery on maria island, climb the nut, map of attractions & things to do in tasmania.

In the north of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park is the jewel in the crown of the state's many natural wonders. Glacier-carved crags; glittering lakes; beech forests; alpine heathland; and jagged dolerite peaks, including 1,616-meter-high Mount Ossa (the highest point on the island), are some of its most breathtaking features.

Hiking in Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park is legendary. Favorite day walks include the Lake Dove Walk , with magnificent views of Cradle Mountain (1,545 meters), and the Weindorfer Walk , a six-kilometer circuit through dense forests. If you're wondering what to do in Tasmania for a week, a hiking trip here could more than fill your days.

The northern part of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, is particularly beautiful. From the summit of Cradle Mountain, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the central highlands. The famous 80-kilometer Overland Track runs south from Cradle Valley to stunning Lake St. Clair , the deepest lake in Australia .

Official site: http://www.parks.tas.gov.au/indeX.aspX?base=3297

Tasmania's capital has transformed itself from a sleepy backwater with a turbulent convict history to a hub of cutting-edge culture. Its beautiful setting between the sea and the soaring peak of kunanyi/Mount Wellington has, no doubt, inspired many of its talented artists in all genres.

Opened in 2011, MONA: Museum of Old and New Art pushes the art world envelope with its provocative and confronting exhibits, while the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery takes a more traditional look at the country's art, as well as its natural history.

Foodies will also find plenty to smile about. The city's waterfront precinct buzzes with hip cafés and restaurants, and you can eat around the world on the restaurant strip in North Hobart.

Delving into the city's rich convict history is another one of the top things to do in Hobart. Visit the Hobart Convict Penitentiary, and explore the historic sandstone warehouses at Salamanca Place , now filled with shops, cafés, and antique dealers. From here, you can also follow the Battery Point Sculpture Trail to see elegant convict-built architecture.

Natural attractions are also never far away from the city buzz. Climb kunanyi/Mount Wellington to really appreciate Hobart's picturesque setting, and gaze out at the World Heritage wilderness in the distance.

Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Hobart

The old convict settlement of Port Arthur offers a sobering look at Tasmania's turbulent past. About an hour's drive southeast of Hobart, the ruins are part of the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property . Here, in 1830, Governor Sir George Arthur established a brutal penal settlement where convicts were forced to hew coal in the mines and fell timber.

In spite of a devastating fire in 1897, the remains of many buildings still stand, including the guard tower, church, model prison, and hospital. You can also browse fascinating documents and relics of the penal settlement in the museum, or visit the nearby Coal Mines Historic Site. Admission tickets give you two days to explore all the attractions here, and they also include an introductory walking tour and 25-minute harbor cruise.

Looking for unique things to do in Tasmania? Consider joining an evening lantern-lit "ghost tour" of the ruins .

After touring Port Arthur, take a drive along the coast to explore the soaring sea cliffs and sheltered coves of the spectacular Tasman peninsula.

Address: 6973 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur, Tasmania

Official site: http://portarthur.org.au/

World Heritage-listed Freycinet National Park, on Tasmania's relatively sunny east coast, is one of Australia's oldest nature reserves and one of its most beautiful. Hiking the many scenic trails here is the best way to explore the park.

The star of this picturesque peninsula is the perfect curve of powder-white sand and azure sea at Wineglass Bay – one of the top beaches in Australia . Wander through pristine bushland to secluded bays and lookouts, or tackle the Wineglass Bay Circuit, one of Australia's top hikes . Along the way, keep a look out for some of the many birds in the park. Black cockatoos, kookaburras, and sea birds are just some of the resident species.

Take the 20-minute walk from the lookout to the southern end of Wineglass Bay to admire beautiful views of the Hazards , three striking pink granite crags rising out of the sea. The peaks are best photographed at sunrise and sunset when their color deepens in the golden light.

At the entrance to Freycinet National Park, the little beach resort of Coles Bay is a good base for walks and climbs in the surrounding hills, and you can also explore the entire region on the East Coast Escape scenic drive.

Official site: http://www.parks.tas.gov.au/indeX.aspX?base=3363

Undulating to the west of Hobart, the comforting presence of 1,270-meter-high kunanyi/Mount Wellington is a constant reminder of the unspoiled wilderness that lies on the doorstep of this waterfront capital.

Follow a winding 21-kilometer mountain road to the Pinnacle, often sprinkled with snow, for breathtaking views over Hobart, the Derwent Valley, and the D'Entrecasteaux Channel. At the summit, boardwalks lead to panoramic viewpoints, and a pavilion displays old photographs of Hobart and Mount Wellington.

The mountain is a popular spot for biking and hiking through the temperate rain forests, and the distinctive Organ Pipes , a dolerite cliff, is renowned for its excellent rock climbing. Standing atop the summit and admiring the sweeping views is one of the best free things to do in Tasmania, but dress warmly as the weather here is notoriously fickle.

Official site: http://www.wellingtonpark.org.au/

On the wind-lashed Tasman Peninsula, 56 kilometers east of Hobart, Tasman National Park protects some of Australia's most spectacular coastal scenery. If you look at a map of Tasmania, this park cloaks the far southeast tip of the state, with nothing but ocean between here and Antarctica.

It's a place of raw beauty. Towering dolerite cliffs plunge 300 meters to the sea, islands shimmer just offshore, waterfalls tumble to the sea, and contorted rock formations wear the relentless forces of wind and water.

The Blowhole and Tasman Arch are two of the park's most famous features. Other top sites include Remarkable Cave , Waterfall Bay , and the Devil's Kitchen – a collapsed rock arch.

Wildlife also scores top billing here. Apart from many species of rare birds, the area plays host to Australian fur seals, dolphins, whales, fairy penguins, and possums. A popular way to explore this stunning national park is by hiking the Three Capes Track (see below).

You can also explore some of the top attractions by car, or hop aboard a boat to glimpse the soaring cliffs from sea level, or cast a line – fishing can be excellent here. In the southern end of the park, climbers scale the dolerite cliffs, and Pirate's Bay is popular with hang-gliders.

Nearby lies the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur , one of Australia's most poignant historic sites.

Official site: http://www.parks.tas.gov.au/indeX.aspX?base=3868

Starting and ending in World Heritage-listed Port Arthur, the stunningly scenic Three Capes Track slices through more than 48 kilometers of awe-inspiring wilderness in Tasman National Park . A boat delivers you to the trailhead from Port Arthur, where you'll walk along the edge of the continent, with breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea from the cliff-top trail.

Along the way, you'll walk through pristine eucalyptus forests and windswept heathland; see spectacular dolerite columns rising from the sea; encounter wildlife like wombats, wallabies, and echidnas; and stay in comfy eco-friendly cabins.

Every hiker receives a guidebook with maps and notes about the journey, as well as stories to read as they sit on strategically placed benches along the track. This four-day, three-night hike is suitable for all levels of hikers – even children. It's one of the best things to do in Tasmania in spring, fall, or summer, although hardy hikers could also tackle it in winter if they dress appropriately.

Official site: https://www.threecapestrack.com.au/experience.html

A mere 15-minute stroll along the river from Launceston's city center, the wild and romantic Cataract Gorge is a deep chasm carved over many centuries by the South Esk River. Offering striking scenery, the gorge is one of the top attractions in Launceston .

Precipitous walking paths, first built in the 1890s, cut into the cliff face on both sides of the gorge, offering heart-stopping views of the river far below.

The less adventurous can hop aboard the world's longest single-span chairlift, and the Kings Bridge and Gorge Restaurant also afford fine views. On the south side, you can relax at a café and paddle in the bush-fringed swimming pool.

At Cliff Grounds on the northern side, lies a beautiful Victorian garden replete with ferns, strutting peacocks, and wallabies. River cruises offer another perspective of this popular attraction.

If you're looking for things to do in Northern Tasmania, Cataract Gorge deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.

Official site: http://www.launcestoncataractgorge.com.au/

Salamanca Place, with its lovingly restored sandstone buildings, is a tourist hub in the heart of Hobart's historic waterfront. Built by convicts between 1835 and 1860, these beautiful Georgian buildings were once warehouses along the commercial center of old Hobart. Today, they house art galleries, cafés, restaurants, and shops.

You can dine alfresco along this cobblestone strip; shop for antiques and souvenirs; or visit the galleries, performing arts venues, and ateliers of the Salamanca Arts Centre . Every Saturday, tourists and locals alike flock to the Salamanca Markets , where more than 300 vendors sell everything from handcrafted jewelry and woodwork to fresh produce.

Nearby Constitution Dock is a favorite spot to buy fresh seafood, and one of the most popular things to do in December here is watch the yachts cruise in after the iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

From Salamanca Place, you can also descend Kelly Steps to Battery Point , a picturesque seaside suburb with heritage houses.

About 55 minutes from Hobart by car and ferry, Bruny Island is a popular day trip from the city for foodies and nature buffs. The island lies across the D'Entrecasteaux Channel from the seaside town of Kettering. It's famous for its delectable gastronomic treats, such as handmade chocolates, local berries, artisan cheeses, and succulent seafood, which you can sample on island tasting tours.

South Bruny National Park, on the island's southern tip, offers beautiful coastal scenery, with soaring green sea cliffs, sheltered beaches, and challenging surf breaks.

You can explore the park on an eco-cruise or hike the many nature trails. Keep an eye out for wildlife. Fur seals and fairy penguins swim offshore, and wombats, wallabies, and echidnas are often spotted on land. Built by convicts between 1836 and 1838, Cape Bruny Lighthouse offers beautiful views of the surging Southern Ocean.

Cutting edge and controversial, the MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) in Hobart made a splash on the Aussie art scene when it opened in 2011. Its Tasmanian owner, David Walsh, described the thought-provoking collection of art and antiquities as a "subversive adult Disneyland."

After entering the museum's foyer at ground level, art lovers descend a spiral staircase to a subterranean gallery, where exhibits range from Sidney Nolan's Snake to an Egyptian sarcophagus and a machine that turns food into brown sludge. Portable touch screen devices provide commentary on the works.

Also on-site are entertainment venues, a trendy restaurant, library, cinema, and accommodation pavilions. The most popular way to travel to MONA is a 30-minute ferry ride along the Derwent River, which drops you off directly at the museum's steps.

Note that you need to buy tickets in advance. Check the website for details and opening hours.

Address: 655 Main Road, Berriedale, Hobart, Tasmania

Official site: http://www.mona.net.au/

About 80 kilometers from Hobart, Mount Field is one of Australia's oldest national parks. Here, you can explore magnificent rainforests, tall swamp gums, alpine moorland, and stunning waterfalls.

Beautiful walking trails wind throughout the park, which is often dusted with snow in the high moorlands until summer. The short Russell Falls Nature Walk to these triple-tiered cascades is suitable even for wheelchair-users. You can also hike around Lake Dobson , and experienced bushwalkers have a choice of more challenging routes.

One of the popular things to do in Tasmania in winter is cross-country skiing, and this is an ideal place to indulge, only a 90-minute drive from Hobart. In the fall, the park ignites with yellow, orange, and red-leafed trees. This is also the site where the last Tasmanian tiger was captured in 1930.

Official site: http://www.parks.tas.gov.au/indeX.aspX?base=3589

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the spectacular Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park has become a symbol of one of Australia's most famous conservation victories. In the 1970s and 80s, this majestic mountain region of primeval rainforest, steep gorges, and wild rivers was the subject of bitter controversy over a proposal to dam the Franklin River. The opponents of the scheme, with their battle cry "No dams!" were victorious, and the wild beauty of the Franklin River and its surrounding wilderness remains.

Today, the national park is the nucleus of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area , which also includes the rocky 1,443-meter peak of Frenchman's Cap . Its Aboriginal sites are evidence of a rich Indigenous heritage stretching back more than 36,000 years.

White-water rafting enthusiasts come here to tackle the tumultuous Franklin River, one of the top outdoor adventures in Australia , and hikers enjoy the short walks. A highlight is Donaghys Lookout Walk . You can also explore the park by car on the Lyell Highway. Better still, hop aboard a river cruise from the west coast village of Strahan .

Official site: http://www.parks.tas.gov.au/indeX.aspX?base=3937

In a land of wilderness escapes, Maria Island truly stands out. Sitting off the east coast of Tasmania, this pristine, car-free island is a nature-lover's Eden. Among the top tourist attractions are the island's Painted Cliffs . Etched with russet-hued swirls of sediment, the Painted cliffs are a favorite subject for photographers. But you can also explore rugged mountains; wild, windswept beaches; fossil-flecked limestone cliffs; and dense forests.

Are you an animal lover? You'll find plenty of wildlife to ogle here, too, from wombats and wallabies to Tasmanian devils, ringtail possums, pademelons, and potoroos (small marsupials). Maria Island is also one of the top places to visit in Tasmania for bird-watching .

Other popular things to do on Maria Island include hiking the scenic trails, biking around the island, snorkeling and diving (if you can brave the cold waters), and exploring the area's rich history. While you're here, you can visit World Heritage-listed convict sites and learn about the Indigenous Puthikwilayti people, custodians of the land and surrounding waters for more than 40,000 years.

Want to stay overnight? Maria Island accommodation is limited. You can stay in basic bunks at the Penitentiary in Darlington, or pitch your tent in a campsite. But most visitors come here on day trips from Hobart.

If you're traveling here on your own, the ferry ride from Triabunna to Darlington, the island's main settlement, takes about 45 minutes. You won't find any shops here, so you'll need to bring everything you need with you, and pack it all out.

About 25 kilometers northeast of Hobart, Richmond is a kind of living open-air museum. Of all the early settlements in Tasmania, it presents the most complete and homogeneous picture of a Georgian colonial town. It was founded soon after the landing of the first settlers in Risdon Cove in 1803 and soon developed into the commercial center of a very fertile grain-growing district.

Richmond was also an important military post. Inmates from the town's penal colony constructed many of the buildings, as well as the Richmond Bridge , which dates from 1825 and is the oldest bridge in Australia.

Often seen in the background of bridge photos is the timber-topped St. Luke's Church , with beautiful stained-glass windows. It was so well constructed that the convict carpenter responsible was pardoned. A short distance to the north, the neo-Gothic St. John's Church , dating from 1837-59 is the oldest Roman Catholic Church in Australia.

Other historic highlights include Richmond Gaol and the well-preserved heritage buildings of Bridge Street. Traveling with kids? One of the top Tasmania attractions for families, the Old Hobart Town model village recreates life in the 1820s.

Many day trips to Richmond from Hobart also include a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Park in Brighton, where you can get up close to favorite Aussie animals like kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and Tasmanian devils.

On Tasmania's northwest coast, the Nut is a 143-meter-high volcanic plug, which looms over the picturesque heritage town of Stanley . Matthew Flinders, who viewed it in 1798, thought it was reminiscent of a Christmas cake with its steep, rounded sides and flat top.

You can climb the steep path to the Pinnacle, which takes about 15 minutes, or hop aboard a chairlift for fantastic photo opportunities. At the top, trails of varying lengths lead visitors through fern-fringed forests and to scenic lookouts with 360-degree views of the curving coastline, the quaint hamlet of Stanley, and surrounding farmland. Look for pademelons and wallabies along the trails, and take a jacket, as the top can be quite windy.

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What makes Tasmania an outdoor lover’s dream?

Home to real-life devils and 2,000-year-old trees, this epic isle takes travelers on an adventure of a lifetime.

At Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park , hikers tackle multiday trails that pass through a landscape of ancient forests and alpine heaths.

“Explore the possibilities” reads the license plate of my rental car, complete with a Tasmanian tiger peeking out from between two numbers. Challenge accepted, I think, tossing my hiking boots in the trunk and setting the GPS to the nearest national park.

Once mocked as a backwater, Tasmania is now one of Australia ’s fastest-growing tourism destinations and one of National Geographic’s Best Trips to take in 2020 . Key to the appeal of Australia’s southernmost state is its raw natural beauty, which it owes largely to a combination of its remoteness (airport expansion plans are under way, but international flights are still a few years off) and the enduring green spirit of its half million or so residents.

Swathed in 2,000-year-old trees and home to real-life devils (and even “tigers,” if you believe the rumors that the officially extinct thylacine lives on), it’s the stuff outdoor adventures are made of.

After making the trek here, visitors find that most of Tassie’s attractions are surprisingly accessible. It takes just four hours to drive the length of the state. No matter where you base yourself, opportunities to become immersed in nature are never far away—nearly half the state is designated national park, after all. Curious to discover if Tassie’s newest adventure experiences are as spectacular as they appear on my social media feeds, I headed to Hobart to explore the adrenalized enticements “within cooee” (within reach) of the capital.

Where to hike

“Bit cuter than the tiger snake, isn’t it?” guide Joel Kovacs jokes, as a pademelon (like a mini-kangaroo) hops across our path along the Three Capes Track, pausing a few feet away to peer at us through a hedge of cutting grass once used by the Palawa (Aboriginal people of Tasmania) for basket-weaving. Along with the trio of Bennett’s wallabies and the deadly tiger snake that had joined us on the track, not to mention the echidna we spot later that day, it’s been a wildlife-watching boon.

But the views remain the highlight of this four-day, 30-mile trail skirting the soaring dolerite cliffs that prop up the Tasman Peninsula, a windswept wilderness jutting off the state’s southeastern tip. Unveiled in 2015 to tremendous expectations, Tasmania’s newest multiday trail comes complete with architect-designed bunkhouses and a smattering of “story seats” inviting walkers to contemplate the history of the peninsula while taking a breather.

Last year, Tasmanian Walking Company , which runs luxe guided hikes on some of Tassie’s top trails, launched the Three Capes Lodge Walk, with groups overnighting at private eco-sensitive cliffside lodges discreetly tucked off the main trail. Considering the gourmet meals, the local wine I don’t have to carry in myself, and the two guides’ knowledge, it’s a truly transformative way to experience the trail, which is unlike any other in Tassie. But the 880-odd tracks that lace the state’s national parks, reserves, and conservation areas each have their own unique aspects. And variety isn’t the only selling point.

Related: This is what it’s like to see Australia’s Great Barrier Reef up close.

“Even the trails with the best infrastructure don’t detract from the feeling of being immersed in the wilderness,” says Kovacs, a Hobart native who has tramped many of them in his decade of guiding. “Tassie’s trails haven’t been widened like you’ll see in New Zealand and elsewhere to accommodate big crowds, and I hope they’ll stay that way.” Kovacs’s favorite is the Overland Track, a six-day traverse of Cradle Mountain–Lake St. Clair National Park .

High on my own wish list is the Wukalina Walk, a four-day Aboriginal-guided trek launched last year in the Bay of Fires, so-called partly for its orange lichen-covered granite boulders.

Red-necked wallabies find a haven in Narawntapu National Park , a seaside reserve of wetlands, lagoons, and sand dunes on Tasmania’s northern coast.

The island’s natural beauties include a superb fairy wren at the York Town Historic Site, the location of the first British settlement in Tasmania in the early 1800s.

More casual walkers find a diversity of day hikes to choose from. I squeeze in a quick jaunt to Russell Falls (and Horseshoe Falls upstream), in Mount Field National Park , which tumbles through a rainforest setting immortalized on Tasmania’s first stamp collection designed to promote tourism in 1899.

Other notable strolls include the Dove Lake Circuit beneath the towering spires of Cradle Mountain, Wineglass Bay Lookout for Freycinet National Park’s best view, and the Springlawn Nature Walk in Narawntapu National Park on the north coast for its wildlife. These are just three of 60 short walks listed by the Parks & Wildlife Service as the state’s best, and big developments are on the way.

A proposal to build six eco-sensitive hiker’s huts along the South Coast Track—Tasmania’s most remote trail—was greenlighted last year, while this past July saw the announcement of plans to develop a walking route in the Tyndall Range on the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area .

Where to bike

Peering over my handlebars at the steep, rocky single track jagging down between the snow gum trees, I wonder if I’ve overestimated my ability. But after navigating a few tight corners without falling off, I settle into the ride down Maydena Bike Park , allowing myself to steal longer glimpses of the ever changing landscape as we descend more than 2,600 feet through a web of 62 trails (and counting) threading down a hillside northwest of Hobart.

“I like to think of this section as our own Jurassic Park,” assistant manager Luke Reed tells me as we weave between lofty king ferns in the temperate rainforest that hugs the slopes. Since decamping from the mainland two years ago when he got wind of the Maydena development, Reed says he hasn’t looked back. “There’s just so much to do here,” he says. “We’ve got Marriott’s Falls and Mount Field just down the road, and I still haven’t ridden all the trails in Maydena.”

While Maydena is Tasmania’s only all-downhill bike park, it’s just one of a growing number of top mountain bike parks popping up around the state. Just north of Launceston, Hollybank Mountain Bike Park opened in 2014 with a six-mile descent called the Juggernaut that draws riders from around the world.

The following year, the former tin-mining town of Derby transformed into Australia’s premier mountain biking destination overnight following the opening of Blue Derby Mountain Bike Trails . And the scene continues to evolve, with the first section of the St. Helens Mountain Bike Trail Network, 40 miles southeast of Derby, having opened in November.

“You can even ride some of the Mount Wellington trails,” says Reed, as we peel off our helmets. Relieved to have completed a lap of Maydena without having to test the limits of my travel insurance, I take his word for it.

Where to kayak

My guide, Liam Weaver, sees it first. Following his lead, I kayak slowly toward the small brown lump moving across the water. Suddenly it stops, its slick furry body and iconic “duck bill” more visible as it pauses on the surface for a few seconds before diving under the tannin-stained water. It’s my first wild platypus sighting, and I’m rapt.

“On some trips we spot more than 20,” says Weaver, grinning back at me, and I snap back to scanning the river for more platypus activity.

Opened in 2015, wilderness retreat Pumphouse Point frames a wintry scene at Lake St. Clair. The glacier-carved basin is Australia’s deepest freshwater lake.

Fog rolls in over the fertile Tamar River valley, home to several wineries.

One of Australia’s most elusive creatures, these shy monotremes (egg-laying mammals) thrive in the upper Derwent River, which snakes down a rural valley northwest of Hobart lined with sheep farms and hop plantations that scent the air with an odd mix of lanolin and beer. Weaver estimates 30 to 50 breeding pairs of platypuses make their homes here, setting the scene for Tassie Bound ’s flagship kayaking tour.

“When Liam first took me down here on a kayak, it felt like we were being gifted an opportunity to create a unique, sustainable tourism experience,” Liam’s wife and business partner, Fiona, tells me after the tour. She also runs Wild Island Women , Tasmania’s first female adventure community. “Even some locals are unaware that we have this incredible wildlife-spotting opportunity on our doorstep,” she says.

Even if you don’t see any platypuses, it’s a ridiculously scenic afternoon paddle downriver. Three years since launching the tour, Tassie Bound remains the only operator on the river, which adds to the sense of adventure. The couple also run various other kayaking tours, and there’s some beautiful kayaking to be had around the Freycinet Peninsula, though keen paddlers in search of the ultimate off-grid adventure would be wise to check out Roaring 40s Kayaking ’s multiday expeditions in the rugged, hidden waterways of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Operated in the same region is Australia’s most spectacular white-water rafting experience, an eight-day adventure down the Franklin River, which was saved from a dam project in the ’70s, thanks to one of the most significant environmental campaigns in Australia’s history.

“The experience of paddling down the untamed wilderness of the Franklin, which has no man-made infrastructure whatsoever, is incredibly powerful,” says Tassie-born Elias Eichler, who runs Franklin River Rafting with his wife and fellow rafting guide, Franzi. “The water is so pure we have a cup hanging off the side of the boat that you can just dunk in the river if you get thirsty. Where else can you do that these days?”

Where to eat

From King Island Dairy cheeses to Bruny Island oysters, Tasmania’s edible output is legendary, and with more than half a dozen established food and drink trails across the state, choosing your own culinary itinerary is one of Tassie’s most rewarding soft adventures.

Given its ideal climate for malting, Tassie’s Whisky Trail is a good place to start. Following a suitably weird morning at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Tassie’s flagship cultural institution and an adventure in itself, I drop into Shene Estate , just a 30-minute drive north of Hobart. The Kernke family has painstakingly restored an exquisite 19th-century Gothic-Revival sandstone stables and barn, the latter now acting as the tasting room of the family distillery.

The first release of their triple-distilled Mackey whisky won the gold medal at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, but I’m partial to their Poltergeist gin. It was named in honor of the pagan witch-protection symbols etched into the buildings during colonial times, though Anne Kernke, who runs tours and tastings by appointment, hints there’s more to the story. She once experienced the sensation of someone sitting on her bed when she was in it, and nobody else was around. “We love a property with spirit, so we thought we had better make some,” she winks as she pours me a gin and tonic.

Other paths reveal the spectrum of Tasmania’s tastes. Oenophiles follow the blue-and-yellow signs along the 105-mile loop north from Launceston to discover more than 30 cellar doors on the Tamar Valley Wine Route . The Made on Bruny Island gourmet trail is ideal for oyster and cheese lovers.

While tucking into a perfectly battered fillet of trevalla from one of Hobart’s famous floating fish-and-chip shops, I think that if there’s a downside to seeking adventure in Tasmania, it’s that no matter how hard you throw yourself into it, you’ll be lucky to go home any lighter.

Taking another bite, I figure I can live with that.

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Tasmania   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Katharina13 | Getty Images

8 Best Things To Do in Tasmania

Updated May. 8, 2023

Tasmania boasts several historic attractions, such as the Port Arthur Historic Site , but its unique flora and fauna make it a great destination for enjoying nature. Though you'll have 19 national parks to choose from, you won't want to miss C

• All Things To Do

Freycinet National Park (Coles Bay) Freycinet National Park (Coles Bay)

Occupying a peninsula just south of Coles Bay, Freycinet National Park is a prime spot for bird-watching, camping and scenic drives. The park also features white-sand beaches surrounded by pink granite peaks that are just as popular with photographers as they are with swimmers, kayakers and snorkelers. If you'd rather hike while exploring this protected area, you'll find multiple trails for short, half-day and overnight hikes on-site.

Visitors rave about this national park's scenery, adding that locales like Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach are so breathtaking that you could spend several hours admiring your surroundings. If you're short on time or new to hiking, travelers recommend trekking the Wineglass Bay Lookout path; for a more challenging hike, several suggest taking the path to Mount Amos. Reviewers also rave about the sunsets at Honeymoon Bay and Cape Tourville's lighthouse.

Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park

Part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area, this national park comprises two regions: Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair. In the northern Cradle Mountain section, you'll find the bulk of the attraction's facilities, including a visitor center, a gift shop and multiple cabins. Cradle Mountain is also the starting point for the Overland Track, a 40-mile path that takes at least six days to complete. The southern Lake St Clair area, meanwhile, features Australia's deepest lake, plus hiking trails and picnic areas. Lake St Clair is also the ending point for the Overland Track.

Past visitors said Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park is "a definite must when visiting Tasmania." On top of jaw-dropping forest and mountain scenery, you may see wild critters like wombats, wallabies and platypuses while trekking the park's trails. If you plan on hiking the Overland Track between Oct. 1 and May 31 (peak walking season), remember to make reservations in advance. A trail fee of 160 to 200 Australian dollars (or $126.50 to $158) also applies during these months. The trail fee does not cover park entrance fees.

Wellington Park Wellington Park free

Located approximately 13 miles west of Hobart, Wellington Park should be a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts staying in Hobart. This nature reserve is filled with picnic areas and forested gullies, which can be explored via a variety of trails. Hiking (or bushwalking) is the most common way to wander around this park, but for a greater thrill, visitors can get around by bike, horse or four-wheel drive vehicle. (Note: Bikes, horses and four-wheel drive vehicles can only be rented from operators outside the park.) Experienced climbers can also hike the Organ Pipes, a series of vertical rock buttresses situated on Mount Wellington.

Recent travelers highly recommend visiting Wellington Park. Many were especially impressed with the views offered at the top of Mount Wellington, though a few cautioned that the park's hikes are a bit strenuous for novice hikers. Several also said that adequate clothing and snow gear are needed in the winter and suggest checking for road closures before arriving. Road closures for the park are updated daily on the City of Hobart's website . For bikers, visitors suggest joining the Mount Wellington Descent tour offered by Under Down Under Tours , which costs 75 Australian dollars (roughly $59) per adult and AU$65 (about $51) for kids between 8 and 16. Tour rates include equipment rentals and guide services.

Popular Tours

Bruny Island Food, Sightseeing, Guided Lighthouse Tour & Lunch

(2492 reviews)

from $ 180.11

3-Hour Tasman Peninsula Wilderness Cruise from Port Arthur

(191 reviews)

from $ 121.23

Full-Day Guided Bruny Island Tour from Hobart

(848 reviews)

from $ 110.14

Launceston Cataract Gorge & First Basin (Launceston) Launceston Cataract Gorge & First Basin (Launceston) free

Staying in Launceston in northeastern Tasmania? Then you'll want to add the Launceston Cataract Gorge & First Basin to your itinerary. Situated less than 3 miles from downtown Launceston, this natural wonder is brimming with fun pursuits, from hiking trails to a swimming pool to the world's longest single-span chairlift. You'll also find a suspension bridge that links the South Esk River's banks.

Previous visitors raved about this attraction's "beautiful" views and abundant activities and amenities, adding that it's a great option for families. Must-dos include walking across the suspension bridge, watching the property's resident peacocks, having a picnic lunch and riding the chairlift (for a fee). To make the most of your time here (while saving a little money), some travelers suggest opting for a one-way chairlift ride across the gorge and walking back.

Port Arthur Historic Site (Port Arthur) Port Arthur Historic Site (Port Arthur)

For a dose of Australian history, make your way to the Port Arthur Historic Site. Built in 1830 as a timber station and penal settlement for Britain's criminals, the property expanded over the years to accommodate more than 3,500 convicts across nearly 250 acres. Today, it's one of 11 locales that make up the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Australian Convict Sites and welcomes visitors daily.

History buffs rave about this Port Arthur attraction, saying it's one of Australia's most well-preserved landmarks. Many also praise the site's "beautiful" location by Carnarvon Bay and recommend saving time for the property's 25-minute harbor cruise, which is included in your entrance fee. To further immerse yourself, some recommend going on an evening ghost tour.

Three Capes Track (Port Arthur) Three Capes Track (Port Arthur)

Active travelers who want to break a sweat while taking in breathtaking bay, sea and cliff panoramas cannot miss Tasman National Park's Three Capes Track. This 28 ½-mile trail, which features a flat timber boardwalk and paved steps, making it a great option for hikers of all skill levels, starts by the Port Arthur Historic Site and takes you on a four-day, three-night hike around Port Arthur, Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy. You may even see marine mammals like seals, dolphins and whales along the way.

The track offers three cabin sites for hikers to use along their journey. You'll need to pack some camping essentials like meals, sleeping bags and insect repellent, but previous travelers were impressed with each rest stop's rustic yet clean and well-appointed cabins and bathrooms. Many also said that the trail's views are "magnificent" and the hike "exhilarating." To help you pack for your hike, several recommend using the attraction's packing list .

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens (Hobart) Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens (Hobart) free

When you're in need of a low-key activity after spending multiple days trekking through Tasmania's national parks or along the Three Capes Track , spend an hour or two at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Nestled within Hobart's Queens Domain neighborhood by the Derwent River, this outdoor oasis features multiple gardens – including ones that house indigenous species, herbs and cactuses – spread throughout more than 34 acres. A conservatory, a lily pond and the world's only subantarctic plant house (which mimics the cold, wet conditions plants native to the subantarctic islands thrive in) are also located on-site.

Past visitors praised this attraction's relaxed atmosphere and beautiful gardens, adding that the regional gardens (filled with plants from Tasmania, New Zealand, China and Japan) were especially impressive. However, a few who visited in winter (between June and August) felt let down by the property's lack of blooming plants. To increase your chances of seeing flowers, arrive during Australia's spring season (September through November).

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary (Brighton) Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary (Brighton)

Tasmania is home to some of the world's most unique wildlife, and one of the island's best places to catch a glimpse of these critters is Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. Situated in Brighton, less than 2 miles outside the city center, Bonorong is a 24-hour facility that treats injured and orphaned animals before returning them to the wild. Some of the animals temporarily housed at the sanctuary include wombats, Tasmanian devils, quolls, koalas and emus.

According to previous visitors, Bonorong offers the "best wildlife experience," making it a must for animal lovers. Many appreciated the facility's focus on releasing their animals (when possible), as well as the 45-minute wildlife tours covered by the sanctuary's entrance fee. On these tours, travelers have the opportunity to pat and take photos with wombats and koalas and to watch guides feed Tasmanian devils.

Tasman Island Cruises and Port Arthur Historic Site Day Tour from Hobart

(423 reviews)

from $ 221.67

Port Arthur Full-day Guided Tour with Harbour Cruise and Tasman National Park

(367 reviews)

from $ 110.84

Day Tour in Mt. Field, Mt. Wellington, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and Richmond

(582 reviews)

from $ 124.00

Explore More of Tasmania

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