Things to do in Hobart

All about Hobart

When to visit

Because Tasmania experiences a much cooler climate than the rest of Australia, travelers flock to the southern island during the summer (December to February). As a result, Hobart, a gateway to Tasmania and its largest city, gets quite busy, with visitors taking advantage of the Salamanca Waterfront, Royal Tasmanian Botanical Garden, and hiking trails this time of year. Though temps get quite chilly come winter (June to August), the snowy summit of kunanyi (Mt. Wellington) is a magical sight to behold, while the raucous celebrations of the Dark Mofo festival include musical performances and massive light installations.

Getting around

Visitors who stick to Hobart’s city center and waterfront may prefer to walk everywhere, although the hills of the Battery Point suburb can be a bit more demanding. Beyond that, it’s best to make use of Hobart’s city buses and ferries for crossing over to the Derwent River’s east bank or traveling upriver to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). A special shuttle bus equipped with a bike rack runs to the top of kunanyi.

Traveler tips

Constitution Dock is the go-to place in Hobart for seafood or fish and chips, with several eateries floating on the Derwent River and moored to the dock. Popular and with good reason is Fish Frenzy on the Elizabeth Street Pier. If you’re planning to drive, you’ll want to do everything in your power to avoid the Tasman Bridge, as it regularly suffers the kind of traffic jams you’d expect from a much larger city.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hobart famous for?

The capital of Tasmania charms with its waterfront setting—one of the deepest natural ports in the world. Hobart is also at the foot of Mt. Wellington (Kunanyi), which many visit to hike. The mostly underground Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is a themed around sex and death.

Which state in Australia is Hobart in?

Hobart is not just in the Australian state of Tasmania, it’s also the state’s capital city. Tasmania is Australia’s only state to be an island, and it sits off the southern coast of the Australian mainland.

How can I spend a day in Hobart?

Spend a day in Hobart combining cultural and natural activities. Tour the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in the morning; it’s a short ferry ride from central Hobart. In the afternoon, drive up Mt. Wellington (Kunanyi) for sweeping views. On Saturdays, visit Salamanca Market for breakfast or lunch.

What can you do in Hobart for free?

There are many free things to do in Hobart. Hike or drive up Mt. Wellington (Kunanyi) for the views; stroll through the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens; enjoy a swim at Seven Mile Beach when the weather’s good; and swap pricey MONA out for the free Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery.

What should I not miss in Hobart?

While visiting Hobart, stop at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), take a drive or hike up Mt. Wellington (Kunanyi), and tour Cascade Brewery, which dates from 1824. On Saturdays, eat at Salamanca Market. Take a day trip to Port Arthur, the ruins of a convict settlement.

Is Hobart safe for tourists?

Yes. Hobart—ranked as Australia’s safest city—is safe for tourists. The crime rate is low, tourists are rarely the targets of crime, and gun violence is almost nonexistent. Watch your belongings and avoid walking alone after dark in quiet areas, as you would in any city.

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