Australia's island state — ancient wilderness, world-class art, convict history, and some of the freshest seafood on the planet.
Tasmania is Australia's island state, separated from the mainland by the Bass Strait. Often called "Tassie" by locals, it's a place of extraordinary natural beauty — jagged mountain peaks, ancient rainforests, wild rivers, and pristine white beaches. With roughly 40% of the state protected as national parks and World Heritage Areas, it's a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Hobart, the capital, is Australia's second-oldest city, founded as a penal colony in 1804. It sits at the base of majestic kunanyi / Mount Wellington and wraps around the deep blue Derwent River. The city has a gritty, creative, and slightly eccentric character — best represented by MONA (the Museum of Old and New Art), Australia's largest private art museum and a cultural phenomenon.
Tasmania has become famous for its incredible food and drink scene. Fresh seafood (think oysters, salmon, abalone, and crayfish), cool-climate wines from the Tamar Valley, world-class whiskey from distilleries like Sullivan's Cove, and artisan produce from the Huon Valley draw food lovers from across the globe. The weekly Salamanca Market is one of Australia's best, with hundreds of stalls set among historic sandstone warehouses.
Beyond Hobart, the island offers road trips through stunning landscapes. The Great Eastern Drive, the Tarkine wilderness, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, and the Freycinet Peninsula with its iconic Wineglass Bay are just some of the highlights. The best time to visit is summer (December to February) for warm weather and long daylight hours, but autumn and spring offer fewer crowds and beautiful colors.
From convict history to ancient wilderness, these experiences make Tasmania truly unforgettable.
Australia's most provocative and entertaining art museum. A ferry ride from Hobart, MONA is a subterranean labyrinth of ancient artifacts and avant-garde installations.
Every Saturday, Hobart's historic Salamanca Place comes alive with 300+ stalls selling local produce, art, crafts, and delicious street food among sandstone warehouses.
One of Tasmania's most iconic natural landmarks. Hike around Dove Lake, spot wombats and wallabies, or tackle the famous Overland Track through World Heritage wilderness.
One of the world's most photographed beaches — a crescent of pure white sand tucked into pink granite cliffs. Short walks from the carpark offer stunning views.
Australia's most infamous convict settlement. Explore the beautifully preserved ruins and hear stories of the harsh penal system on the Tasman Peninsula.
Rising 1,271 meters behind Hobart, drive or hike to the summit for breathtaking views over the city, river, and Southern Ocean. Often snow-capped in winter.
Discover the flavors that define this destination, from local specialties to world-class dining experiences.
Tassie has some of Australia's best seafood — Pacific oysters from the east coast, ocean trout, salmon, crayfish, abalone and scallops. Try them fresh at the docks or in fine dining restaurants.
A day trip to Brunny Island combines cheese tasting at Bruny Island Cheese Co., fresh oysters from Get Shucked, and incredible views — it's a gourmet pilgrimage.
MONA isn't just art — the restaurant Source and the Moorilla winery on site serve excellent modern Australian cuisine with views of the Derwent River and vineyards.
Hobart's famous Salamanca Market runs every Saturday. Try fresh oysters, gourmet pies, artisanal cheese, cider and local honey from the many food stalls.
Curated itineraries to help you make the most of your time, whether you're staying a few days or a full week.
Explore Hobart — Salamanca Place, Battery Point historic cottages, Constitution Dock and the waterfront. Visit MONA in the afternoon by ferry.
Day trip to Bruny Island — cheese factory, oyster farm, the Neck lookout, and lighthouse. Return in time for dinner at a Salamanca restaurant.
Mt Wellington (Kunanyi) summit drive in the morning, then Cascade Brewery tour. Afternoon browsing galleries and boutique shops. Farewell seafood dinner on the waterfront.
Arrival day — check in, then wander Salamanca Place, Battery Point and the waterfront. Fresh oysters at Constitution Dock for lunch.
Full day at MONA — explore the museum, lunch at Source restaurant, and Moorilla wine tasting. Return via ferry at sunset.
Bruny Island day trip — the Neck, lighthouse, Get Shucked oysters, Bruny Island Cheese Co., and scenic coastal drives. Combine with a food tour if available.
Mt Wellington (Kunanyi) summit, Cascade Brewery, and the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Evening: dine at one of Hobart's top restaurants.
Richmond historic village and the Coal Valley wine region in the morning. Afternoon: last-minute shopping at Salamanca Market (Saturday) or art galleries. Farewell dinner.
From boutique warehouses to waterfront luxury, find your perfect Tasmanian base on Trip.com.
Luxury waterfront hotel with sweeping views of the Derwent River, spa, and prime location near Salamanca and the CBD.
Exclusive luxury pavilions at the MONA museum. Architectural design, private plunge pools, and direct museum access — a one-of-a-kind stay.
Boutique hotel in a grand 19th-century mansion with beautiful gardens, fine dining, and an acclaimed art collection.
Great value modern hotel in the city center with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and easy access to all Hobart attractions.
Summer (Dec–Feb) is warmest with long days. Autumn (Mar–May) has beautiful fall colors. Winter brings snow on kunanyi and cozy fireside vibes.
Hobart Airport (HBA) has flights from all major Australian cities. The Spirit of Tasmania ferry sails between Melbourne and Devonport overnight.
Renting a car is the best way to explore Tasmania. Hobart has buses and ferries. Many tours depart Hobart for MONA, Port Arthur, and wine regions.
Mid-range: AU$130–230/day. Food and wine tours add significantly. Allow extra for MONA entry (AU$35) and day tours to national parks.
Everything you need to know before planning your trip to Hobart.
Summer (Dec-Feb) is peak season with warm weather and long days — perfect for exploring wilderness areas. Autumn (Mar-May) offers fewer crowds and beautiful fall colors. Winter is quieter with crisp, clear days.
Hobart Airport (HBA) is 17 km from the CBD. The SkyBus shuttle takes about 30 minutes. Taxis and rideshares are readily available. Rental cars are a great option for exploring beyond Hobart.
Top attractions include MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), Salamanca Market (Saturdays), Mount Wellington kunanyi, Battery Point historic cottages, and day trips to Port Arthur and Bruny Island.
Hobart is very safe for tourists. It has a small-city feel with low crime rates. Standard precautions apply. When driving in Tasmania, watch for wildlife on country roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
Budget options start around AU$100-160 per night, mid-range hotels cost AU$180-350, and boutique/luxury properties range from AU$350-750+. Prices spike during the Taste of Summer festival and Dark Mofo.
Most international visitors require a visa to enter Australia, including Tasmania. New Zealand citizens receive a visa on arrival. Other tourists should apply online for a Visitor Visa (subclass 600) or ETA before departure.