While Hobart might be a small city, it’s got a number of big things to do to keep you entertained for ages! To help you out, we’ve pulled together this list of the 10 best things to do in Hobart to make your travel planning super easy.
Take your pick from mountain hikes, spectacular private museums, a huge range of exceptional dining experiences and more. So keep reading this list of the 10 best things to do in Hobart to find out what tickles your fancy!
1. See the sights from the top of Mount Wellington
A trip up the top of Mount Wellington always comes on top of any list of the best things to do in Hobart. You can either trek or drive to the top of the famous kunanyi / Mount Wellington to see sweeping views of the city below. Our carefully curated guide to Mount Wellington gives you even more information about how to get there and ways to immerse yourself in the 18,000 hectares of wilderness on the mountain.
2. Get artsy and visit Mona
A trip to the world-famous Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) is a must-do on any trip to Hobart. The museum features the 1900-piece private art collection of David Walsh, with items designed to both shock and captivate. Not only that but it’s housed in an architecturally stunning building with incredible on-site restaurants. Read more about this wickedly delightful museum over here.
3. Find unique wares at Salamanca market
The iconic outdoor Salamanca Market is another one of the ten things to do when when you’re in Hobart. These markets showcase the artisan wares of local Tasmanians, including local lavender products, artwork, jewellery, leather goods and a whole heap of delicious food. The markets run every Saturday from 8:30am to 3pm.
4. Soak up Hobart’s history at Salamanca Place
After you’ve finished browsing Salamanca market, be sure to wander around the historic docks area. The old sandstone buildings were originally built in the early 1800s to store goods that came in off the nearby ships. These days they’re home to boutique shops and delightful pubs, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon!
5. Taste the local produce at one of Hobart’s many great restaurants
By now, with all that exploring, you must be beat. Take a break and refuel at one of Hobart’s many cafes, restaurants or pubs. Check out the selection of incredible places to eat or drink here.
6. Explore nature by setting out on a bushwalk
Hobart is flanked by loads of stunning bush trails, making it easy for you to get outside and reconnect with nature. The Greater Hobart Trails website has all the information about the local bush walks and info about which tracks will suit you.
7. Go swimming at a secret beach
There are a couple of secret beaches in and around Hobart just waiting for you to explore. The pristine water, coupled with the crisp Tasmanian air, make these beaches the perfect place for you to relax and unwind. Click here to find out where the secret beaches are (but shh let’s keep this on the down-low and the secret between us!)
8. Spot the Southern Lights
Keep an eye out for the spectacular Southern Lights to see the Hobart sky light up in majestic greens and pinks. This stunning natural phenomenon is the southern hemisphere’s version of the Northern Lights. Head up to the top of Mount Wellington on a clear night to try your luck at seeing this wonder! Keep reading here to find out more about the Southern Lights.
9. Peer out from the Mount Nelson lookout
If you’re after more scenic views over Hobart, then head on up to the Mount Nelson lookout. Not only does this give you a view over the city but you’ll also get to see Bruny Island off in the distance. There’s also a cafe up the top, so you can enjoy lunch with a view.
10. Stay warm and have a drink at a pub with a fireplace
Escape Tassie’s frosty weather by heading indoors to one of Hobart’s many incredible pubs with a roaring fireplace. Grab a drink, thaw out and remark on what a day of adventure you’ve just had! Click here for our recommendations for the top five Hobart pubs with a fireplace.
11. And just for something extra, head out on a day trip to Port Arthur
Ok so we realise this is point 11 on a list of the “Top 10 amazing things to do in Hobart”, but it’s too good to not include. If you’re keen to learn about Tasmania’s colonial history then visit the iconic Port Arthur Prison Settlement, just 90 minutes from Hobart city. This article covers all things Port Arthur, why it’s worth a visit and how you can get there.
Need somewhere to stay in Hobart?
If you’re looking for places to stay while you’re in Hobart, then click here to see a full list of great accommodation options! If you’re after high end luxury then we highly recommend staying at the MACq 01 hotel by the Hobart waterfront or the Mona Pavillions out at the Mona museum. For something more bespoke there’s also the Avalon City Retreat in the heart of Hobart, which features an outdoor hot tub on the roof!
So take this list and get going to enjoy the best things that Hobart has to offer.
