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Hobart travel guide

From the waterfront to towering kunanyi (Mt Wellington), Hobart is a city with so much to explore. Start at the harbour’s edge, where travellers and locals alike are drawn to the historic waterfront and its array of cafes, restaurants, pubs and wine bars. Stretch your legs and take a bushwalk to get the best views of the city. Visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) for a world-class cultural experience, or drop by in June for Dark MOFO to experience Hobart’s weird and wacky winter festival. Planning a visit? Explore our Hobart travel guide and find out how to make the most of your time in this historic city. We’ve collected the best tips from our travel experts, and have all sorts of suggestions for things to do, the best time to travel, where to stay in Hobart, getting around and more.

Where to stay

You can’t go wrong when it comes to deciding where to stay in Hobart. All Hobart neighbourhoods are only a short distance from the city. You should have no problems making your way to Salamanca Place, Battery Point and the waterfront from your accommodation, even in the outskirts of Hobart. For some travellers, staying outside of the action is actually a preferred option, as parking is more accessible in the suburbs. 
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Things to do

There are myriad things to do in Hobart. Not only is the city itself great to explore – it’s also the perfect place to base yourself if you’re day tripping to Bruny Island, Port Arthur, or Mount Field National Park. From delicious food to familiar stores, Hobart provides all the creature comforts you could want for during a getaway in Tasmania.
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Getting Around

Hobart transport, though limited, is easy to navigate and pleasant to use. Buses are available across the city and journeys are relatively quick. Many attractions are within walking distance of one other, so you may not need to use public transport. However, where walking isn’t possible, and buses to your destination are unavailable, you can easily order a taxi.  Travelling to areas outside of Hobart can prove challenging, as there are no rail services available in the region. If you need to travel long distance, book a seat on a coach or hire a car and travel at your own pace.
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Where to eat

Deciding where to eat in Hobart? It’s a tough call. There are so many world-class food and wine options to choose from. Hobart offers everything from stylish modern Australian restaurants to folksy wharf-side dining, inner-city coffee shops, and artisan bakeries.  The eateries in the area serve as warm havens to escape the cold in winter, and in summer they are simply showcases of the very best Tasmanian produce. Work your way through the food Hobart has to offer and you’ll soon realise why the city attracts foodies from far and wide.
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Shopping

Not sure what there is to buy in Hobart? You may be surprised by the range of Hobart shopping options. The CBD has stores from many big domestic and international brands, as well as groups of independent shops in the inner-city malls and the arcade. There are also smaller laneways and side streets hidden all over the city where you’ll find stores exclusive to Hobart. Many small shops and markets stock the work of local makers, revealing great opportunities to bring home unique souvenirs for yourself, your family, and your friends.
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Best time to travel

Weather in Hobart is great year-round as every season brings out a different side of the city. If you’re travelling to Hobart in winter, you’ll get what many consider to be the “authentic Tasmanian experience” – cold, misty mornings and beautiful days. During the cooler months, you’ll truly appreciate Hobart’s warm and cosy cafes too.  In summer, Hobart comes alive with events in abundance, markets in full swing, and foodie favourites in season (hello berries!).
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Parks

Buy a coffee to go and spend some time in the quiet serenity of one of Hobart’s parks. The open spaces are perfect spots for picnics with your travel companions. What better way is there to experience and enjoy the fresh air of Tasmania?  Local parks in the suburbs are quaint and peaceful, but the Royal Tasmanian Botanic Gardens and Queens Domain are the parks that you simply must make time for during your Hobart holiday.
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