Hobart Travel Guide: Where to Eat, Stay and Explore

This guide is part of our Tasmania Travel Guide — start there for the island-wide overview, itineraries and costs.

Hobart: A Heart-Stealing Adventure

Hobart, Tasmania’s captivating capital, can easily become the highlight of an entire Australia trip. Stand on the waterfront, with the crisp air carrying the scent of the sea and the distant hum of the Salamanca Market, and it's clear this city, nestled at the foot of kunanyi/Mount Wellington, is something truly special. If you're looking for an unforgettable escape, consider this your definitive Hobart Travel Guide for 2024.

Whether you're a first-timer or returning to explore more deeply, this comprehensive guide will unlock the best of what Hobart has to offer, from its world-class art and culinary scenes to its breathtaking natural beauty. Get ready to explore Tasmania's vibrant heart!

• Getting to Hobart: Your Gateway to Tasmania
• When to Visit Hobart: Seasons and Festivals
• Hobart Accommodation: Where to Stay
• Top Things to Do in Hobart: Unmissable Experiences
  • Salamanca Market: A Sensory Feast
  • kunanyi/Mount Wellington: Panoramic Views
  • MONA: A Museum Like No Other
  • Hobart Waterfront & Heritage Precincts
  • Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
  • Cascade Brewery: A Taste of History
  • Hobart Day Trips: Beyond the City Limits
• Best Restaurants Hobart: A Culinary Journey
  • Hobart Fine Dining
  • Casual & Cafe Delights
  • Bars & Pubs
• Getting Around Hobart: Transport Options
• Hobart Travel Budget: A Practical Breakdown
• Hobart Travel Tips: Pro Advice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid in Hobart
• Conclusion: Your Tasmanian Adventure Awaits!

Getting to Hobart: Your Gateway to Tasmania

Reaching this magnificent island capital is part of the adventure. Flying into Hobart is usually the easiest option, though the Spirit of Tasmania ferry offers a unique experience for those bringing a vehicle.

Hobart International Airport (HBA)

The Hobart International Airport (HBA) is located approximately 17 km (11 miles) northeast of the city centre. Several airlines operate daily flights:

• Qantas: Direct flights from Melbourne (MEL), Sydney (SYD), Brisbane (BNE).
• Virgin Australia: Direct flights from Melbourne (MEL), Sydney (SYD), Brisbane (BNE).
• Jetstar: Direct flights from Melbourne (MEL), Sydney (SYD), Gold Coast (OOL).
• Rex Airlines: Flights connecting from regional centres.

Transfer from Airport to City:

• SkyBus: The most convenient option. It runs frequently between HBA and various stops in central Hobart. A one-way ticket typically costs AUD $24 (approx. USD $16) and a return is AUD $44 (approx. USD $29). Book online at SkyBus Hobart Express.
• Taxi/Ride-share: Expect to pay around AUD $45-$60 (approx. USD $30-$40) for a taxi or Uber/DiDi to the city centre.
• Car Rental: All major car rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget, Thrifty) have desks at the airport. Prices start from around AUD $50-$80 per day (approx. USD $33-$53) for a compact car, depending on the season. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak times.

Spirit of Tasmania (Ferry)

If you're driving from mainland Australia, the Spirit of Tasmania provides an overnight ferry service between Geelong (Corio Quay) and Devonport, Tasmania. From Devonport, Hobart is approximately a 3-hour drive (280 km) south. This is an excellent option if you plan to explore the entire island with your own vehicle.

• Booking: Visit Spirit of Tasmania.
• Cost: Varies significantly based on vehicle type, cabin choice, and season. Expect to pay anywhere from AUD $100-$400+ (approx. USD $65-$265+) per person one-way, plus vehicle costs.

When to Visit Hobart: Seasons and Festivals

Hobart is a year-round destination, but your ideal time to visit depends on what you want to experience. The shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather, but each season has its charm, making your Hobart Travel Guide adaptable.

Summer (December – February)

• Weather: Warmest and driest temperatures, typically 12°C - 23°C (54°F - 73°F).
• Pros: Ideal for outdoor activities, long daylight hours, vibrant atmosphere.
• Cons: Peak tourist season, higher prices for flights and accommodation, can be crowded.
• Festivals: The iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race finish (late December), Taste of Summer (late December/early January).

Autumn (March – May)

• Weather: Mild, often sunny days, cooler nights. Temperatures usually 8°C - 18°C (46°F - 64°F). Beautiful autumn foliage, especially inland.
• Pros: Pleasant for sightseeing, fewer crowds than summer, good value. This is arguably the best time to visit for a more relaxed Hobart adventure.
• Cons: Weather can be unpredictable.

Winter (June – August)

• Weather: Coldest months, with average temperatures 3°C - 12°C (37°F - 54°F). Snow on kunanyi/Mount Wellington is common.
• Pros: Cosy atmosphere, lower prices, unique winter festivals. Excellent for food and wine experiences.
• Cons: Shorter daylight hours, can be quite chilly.
• Festivals: Dark Mofo (June) – a unique, often avant-garde winter arts and music festival by MONA. This is an incredible, albeit dark, experience for any Hobart Travel Guide.

Spring (September – November)

• Weather: Gradually warming, with blossoming flowers. Temperatures 7°C - 17°C (45°F - 63°F).
• Pros: Nature comes alive, pleasant for hiking, fewer crowds than summer.
• Cons: Can still be chilly or windy, especially in early spring.

Hobart Accommodation: Where to Stay

Choosing the right base is crucial for your Hobart Travel Guide. From luxury hotels to charming boutique stays and budget-friendly options, Hobart caters to all preferences. Tip: aim for somewhere central if you want to walk to most attractions, or near a bus route if you're comfortable with public transport.

Luxury (AUD $250+ / USD $165+)

• MACq 01 Hotel: 18 Hunter St, Hobart TAS 7000. Phone: +61 3 6210 7600. A storytelling hotel on the wharf, each room telling a unique Tasmanian tale. Rooms start from AUD $350 (approx. USD $230). Check availability.
• The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel: 12 Murray St, Hobart TAS 7000. Phone: +61 3 6232 6000. A fusion of heritage and modern luxury overlooking Parliament Square. Rooms from AUD $400 (approx. USD $265). Check availability.

Mid-Range (AUD $150-$250 / USD $100-$165)

• Henry Jones Art Hotel: 25 Hunter St, Hobart TAS 7000. Phone: +61 3 6210 7700. Australia’s first dedicated art hotel, housed in a historic wharf-side building. Doubles from AUD $200 (approx. USD $130). Check availability.
• Lenna of Hobart: 20 Runnymede St, Battery Point TAS 7004. Phone: +61 3 6232 3900. A beautiful historic mansion in Battery Point, offering elegant rooms and easy access to Salamanca Place. Rooms from AUD $180 (approx. USD $120). Check availability.

Budget (Under AUD $150 / USD $100)

• Alabama Hotel: Level 1/72 Liverpool St, Hobart TAS 7000. Phone: +61 499 987 698. Quirky, retro-style rooms with shared bathrooms, great central location. Rooms from AUD $110 (approx. USD $73). Book directly or via popular booking sites.
• Narrara Backpackers Hobart: 88 Goulburn St, Hobart TAS 7000. Phone: +61 3 6234 8801. Clean, friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, good common areas. Dorm beds from AUD $35 (approx. USD $23), private rooms from AUD $90 (approx. USD $60). Check availability.

Top Things to Do in Hobart: Unmissable Experiences

This is where your Hobart Travel Guide truly comes alive! From the bustling markets to the majestic mountain, Hobart offers a diverse range of experiences that will captivate every traveler. These are the absolute must-do Hobart attractions.

Salamanca Market: A Sensory Feast

No Hobart Travel Guide is complete without a visit to the legendary Salamanca Market. Every Saturday, Salamanca Place transforms into a vibrant outdoor bazaar, bustling with over 300 stalls. It's worth planning to be in Hobart on a Saturday just for this. The air fills with the aroma of freshly baked goods, sizzling street food, and the sounds of buskers and happy chatter.

• What to find: Hand-crafted jewellery, local art, fresh produce, gourmet foods, fashion, and souvenirs. It's the perfect place to pick up unique Tasmanian gifts.
• Location: Salamanca Place, Hobart TAS 7000.
• Opening Hours: Saturdays, 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM (rain or shine!).
• Cost: Free entry, but be prepared to spend on delicious food and unique finds! A typical budget is around AUD $50-$100 (approx. USD $33-$67) for food and a few small souvenirs.
• Pro Tip: Go early to avoid the biggest crowds, and don't be afraid to sample! Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

Kunanyi/Mount Wellington: Panoramic Views

Dominating the Hobart skyline, kunanyi/Mount Wellington offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Derwent River, and beyond. On a clear, crisp day, the vista from the summit is truly breathtaking. It's an essential item on any list of things to do in Hobart.

• Getting there:
• Drive: A relatively easy 30-minute drive from the city centre. The road is well-maintained but can be icy in winter.
• Public Bus: The 'kunanyi/Mount Wellington Explorer Bus' offers scheduled services, allowing you to hop on and off. Return ticket is AUD $35 (approx. USD $23) for adults. Book via Mount Wellington Explorer Bus.
• Taxi/Ride-share: Approximately AUD $60-$80 (approx. USD $40-$53) one-way.
• Activities: Enjoy the views from the observation deck, explore walking trails (from short strolls to multi-hour hikes), or even bike down (experienced riders only!).
• Cost: Free entry if driving yourself.
• Pro Tip: Even on a sunny day in Hobart, the summit can be significantly colder, windier, and even have snow. Dress in layers, no matter the season. Check the summit weather forecast before you go!

MONA: A Museum Like No Other

The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is not just a building; it's an experience, a statement, and a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art and pushing boundaries. It’s definitely one of the most unique Hobart attractions. Descending into its underground labyrinth can leave you completely disoriented and utterly captivated.

• Location: 655 Main Rd, Berriedale TAS 7011.
• Getting there:
• MONA Ferry (Posh Pit or Standard): Departs from Brooke Street Pier. This is the most scenic way to arrive. Standard tickets start from AUD $30 (approx. USD $20), and a return costs the same as one way. The Posh Pit (includes canapés and drinks) costs extra; check the MONA website for current fares.
• Bus: Public Metro buses (routes 510, 520, 522 and X20) serve MONA and are free to ride until 30 June 2027.
• Drive: Approximately a 15-minute drive from central Hobart. Free parking available.
• Opening Hours: Thursday - Monday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
• Cost: Free for Tasmanians, AUD $39 (approx. USD $26) for interstate and international visitors. Book tickets and ferry in advance online: MONA website.
• Pro Tip: Allow at least 3-4 hours, or even a full day, to fully immerse yourself. Download 'The O' app for free, which acts as your guide. Don't miss Faro restaurant for an incredible experience if your budget allows.

Hobart Waterfront & Heritage Precincts

Hobart's vibrant waterfront and its adjacent historic areas like Battery Point are a joy to explore on foot. This is where the maritime history of this Hobart Travel Guide truly shines.

• Constitution Dock: Famous for the finish of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. You'll find fishing boats, local restaurants, and often seals basking in the sun.
• Battery Point: Wander through the charming streets of this historic village, admiring colonial-era cottages, quaint gardens, and hidden cafes. It's like stepping back in time.
• Salamanca Place: Beyond market day, Salamanca Place is home to art galleries, restaurants, and bars housed in Georgian warehouses.
• Cost: Free to explore.
• Pro Tip: Grab some fresh fish and chips from a colourful punt at Constitution Dock (e.g., Flippers or Fish Frenzy) – one of Hobart's simple pleasures, typically around AUD $15-$25 (approx. USD $10-$16.50).

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

A tranquil escape just a short walk from the city centre, these gardens are a beautiful spot for a leisurely stroll. They offer a welcome green oasis close to the city.

• Location: Lower Domain Rd, Hobart TAS 7000.
• Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 4:45 PM (winter), 8:00 AM - 5:45 PM (summer).
• Cost: Free entry.
• Pro Tip: Don't miss the Subantarctic Plant House, which replicates the conditions of subantarctic islands.

Cascade Brewery: A Taste of History

Nestled beneath kunanyi/Mount Wellington, Australia’s oldest operating brewery offers tours and tastings. It's a heritage site as much as a working brewery. The history is as fascinating as the beer itself!

• Location: 140 Cascade Rd, South Hobart TAS 7004.
• Opening Hours: Daily, tours typically run from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, with the bar and shop open till late afternoon/early evening. Check their website for current times.
• Cost: Brewery tours typically cost AUD $30-$35 (approx. USD $20-$23) and include a tasting. Booking ahead is essential: Cascade Brewery website.
• Getting there: Public bus (Route 446, 447, 449) from central Hobart is approx. 15 minutes.

Hobart Day Trips: Beyond the City Limits

While there are plenty of things to do in Hobart, its proximity to other Tasmanian wonders makes it an ideal base for day trips. Renting a car is highly recommended for these excursions.

• Port Arthur Historic Site: A UNESCO World Heritage-listed former penal colony, about a 90-minute drive southeast. It’s a hauntingly beautiful and historically significant site. Entry is AUD $55 (approx. USD $36) for a Day Ticket. Port Arthur Website.
• Huon Valley & Tahune Adventures: Explore the scenic Huon Valley, famous for its apples and cider. Experience the Tahune Airwalk (a cantilevered walkway amongst the treetops) about 1.5 hours south. Tahune Airwalk entry approx. AUD $35 (approx. USD $23). Tahune Adventures.
• Richmond: A picturesque historic village about 25 minutes northeast of Hobart, home to Australia’s oldest bridge and gaol. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Best Restaurants Hobart: A Culinary Journey

Hobart’s food scene has exploded in recent years, making it a true foodie destination. From fresh seafood to innovative fine dining and cosy cafes, your Hobart Travel Guide would be incomplete without a culinary tour. Options range from simple fish and chips to intricate degustation menus.

Hobart Fine Dining (Expect AUD $80-$150+ per person)

• Faro (MONA): 655 Main Rd, Berriedale TAS 7011. Phone: +61 3 6277 9904. Located within MONA, Faro offers a unique dining experience inspired by the museum's provocative nature, with live music and performance at both lunch and dinner. A four-course Chef's Menu lunch is AUD $135 (approx. USD $90) and the five-course dinner tasting menu is AUD $185 (approx. USD $122). Booking essential.
• Aloft Restaurant: Top floor, Brooke Street Pier, Hobart TAS 7000. Stunning waterfront views with a tasting menu focused on local produce. Booking highly recommended.
• Pumphouse Point (Lake St Clair): About 2.5 hours from Hobart. The shared-table dinner showcasing Tassie produce is included in an overnight stay rather than sold as a separate restaurant booking, so plan it as a night away.

Casual & Cafe Delights (Expect AUD $20-$40 per person)

• Cultura Espresso Bar & Restaurant: 123 Liverpool St, Hobart TAS 7000. A bustling Italian eatery, great for coffee, breakfast, and pasta. Mains around AUD $25-$35.
• Jackman & McRoss: 57-59 Hampden Rd, Battery Point TAS 7004. A favourite Hobart bakery. Perfect for breakfast or lunch, with incredible pastries, pies, and sandwiches. Expect to spend AUD $15-$25 for a pastry and coffee or a light lunch.
• Small-fry: 3/129 Bathurst St, Hobart TAS 7000. Tiny but mighty, known for delicious brunch and coffee. A typical brunch dish and coffee is around AUD $20-$25.
• Fish Frenzy: Elizabeth St Pier, Hobart TAS 7000. Iconic spot for fresh fish and chips right on the waterfront. Prices for a classic fish & chips around AUD $18-$25.

Bars & Pubs

• Society Salamanca: 22 Montpelier Retreat, Battery Point TAS 7004. Stylish cocktail bar in Salamanca. Cocktails from AUD $20.
• Telegraph Hotel: 19 Morrison St, Hobart TAS 7000. A classic Aussie pub with great beers on tap and hearty pub meals. Pints from AUD $10, mains from AUD $25.

Getting Around Hobart: Transport Options

Hobart is a very walkable city, especially the central business district, Salamanca, and Battery Point. However, for longer distances or reaching specific Hobart attractions, you have several options.

• Walking: The best way to soak in the atmosphere. Bring comfortable shoes!
• Public Bus (Metro Tasmania): An efficient and affordable way to get around. A single adult fare is AUD $3.50 (approx. USD $2.30) if paying cash, or cheaper with a 'Greencard'. You can buy a Greencard from newsagents and load credit onto it. Metro Tasmania’s website has route maps and timetables: Metro Tasmania Fares & Tickets.
• Taxis & Ride-shares (Uber/DiDi): Readily available in the city. Good for specific destinations or late-night travel.
• Hire Car: Essential if you plan to do extensive day trips outside the city (e.g., Port Arthur, Huon Valley, Freycinet National Park). Book well in advance, especially during peak seasons. As mentioned, prices start from AUD $50-$80 per day.
• Bicycle: Hobart is becoming more bike-friendly, with dedicated paths. You can rent bikes from several outlets in the city, typically AUD $30-$50 per day.

Hobart Travel Budget: A Practical Breakdown

Careful budgeting pays off. Here’s a rough breakdown for your Hobart Travel Guide, helping you estimate costs for your unforgettable trip (all prices in AUD and approximate USD equivalents, subject to change in 2024).

*Note: These estimates do not include flights to Hobart or highly specialized activities like multi-day tours. Car rental would add approximately AUD $50-$80 (USD $33-$53) per day.

Hobart Travel Tips: Pro Advice

A few insights can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. These Tasmania travel tips are golden!

• Book Ahead: Especially for MONA ferry/tickets, popular restaurants (e.g., Faro, Aloft), and accommodation during peak season or festivals (Dark Mofo, Taste of Summer). Tasmania is popular, and things fill up fast.
• Dress in Layers: Hobart's weather can be notoriously changeable, even within a single day. A sunny morning can turn into a chilly, windy afternoon, so don't get caught out.
• Embrace the Coffee Culture: Hobart locals love their coffee, and there are many fantastic independent cafes to discover beyond the big chains. Don't be afraid to wander off the main streets.
• Utilize Visitor Information: The Tasmanian Travel and Information Centre (20 Davey St, Hobart TAS 7000) is a fantastic resource for local advice, maps, and booking tours. Open 9 AM - 5 PM daily.
• Protect from the Sun: Even on cloudy days, UV levels can be high. Always wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses when outdoors.
• Hydration is Key: Carry a reusable water bottle. Tasmania has excellent tap water.
• Connect with Locals: Tasmanians are generally friendly and proud of their state. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations – you might stumble upon a hidden gem not in any Hobart Travel Guide!
• Consider a 'Tasmanian Parks Pass': If you plan on visiting multiple national parks (e.g., Freycinet, Cradle Mountain, which you might if extending your Tasmania travel tips), a park pass can save you money. A 'Holiday Pass' for 2 months costs AUD $90 (approx. USD $59) per vehicle. Buy online here.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Hobart

Every seasoned traveller learns from a few missteps. Here are some common blunders to avoid!

• Underestimating the Weather: Worth repeating, because it's crucial. Even in summer, kunanyi/Mount Wellington can be absolutely freezing – a t-shirt won't cut it!
• Not Booking MONA: Showing up without pre-booking ferry tickets or even entry tickets, especially on weekends or during festivals, can lead to disappointment or long waits.
• Only Visiting Salamanca Market: While incredible, Hobart offers so much more than its famous market. Don't let it be your only Saturday activity; explore the city centre, Battery Point, and beyond.
• Not Venturing Outside the City: Tasmania's beauty truly unfolds beyond Hobart's limits. Allocate at least one or two days for a day trip to experience the island's diverse landscapes and history.
• Ignoring Local Events: Festivals like Dark Mofo or Taste of Summer can heavily impact accommodation availability and prices. Conversely, not knowing about them means you miss out on unique cultural experiences! Check the local events calendar before your trip.
• Not Trying Local Produce: Tasmania is renowned for its fresh seafood, cheeses, ciders, wines, and unique produce. Don't stick to chain restaurants; seek out local eateries that champion Tasmanian ingredients.

Conclusion: Your Tasmanian Adventure

Hobart is a city that lingers in your memory long after you've left. Its blend of historic charm, artistic innovation, rugged natural beauty, and a burgeoning culinary scene makes it an irresistible destination. From the vibrant energy of Salamanca Market to the serene heights of kunanyi/Mount Wellington and the thought-provoking galleries of MONA, there are countless things to do in Hobart to fill your days.

As you plan your journey using this Hobart Travel Guide for 2024, remember to embrace the unexpected, savour the local flavours, and allow yourself to be captivated by Tasmania's capital. These insights and tips should help you craft an unforgettable adventure. Tasmania is waiting – go explore!