Key Takeaways:
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Hobart blends wild nature, historic charm, and creative culture, making it a perfect year-round destination.
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Whether you’re hiking mountains, visiting museums, or eating your way through the local markets, Hobart always offers something unique.
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This guide covers ten unforgettable experiences in Hobart that you can enjoy in any season.
Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is a city that surprises visitors with its mix of colonial architecture, waterfront charm, and rugged natural beauty. Nestled at the base of Mount Wellington and along the River Derwent, Hobart’s appeal stretches far beyond its small size. The city has evolved from a quiet port into one of Australia’s most dynamic travel spots—offering art, adventure, food, and festivals year-round. From bustling Salamanca Market to dramatic wilderness just minutes from downtown, Hobart makes it easy to go from urban to untamed in a single day. Whether you’re exploring solo or visiting with family, there’s always something happening in Tasmania’s cultural heart.
Table of Contents
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Hike to the Summit of kunanyi/Mount Wellington
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Explore MONA – Museum of Old and New Art
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Wander Through Salamanca Market
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Take a Day Cruise on the River Derwent
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Visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
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Tour the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site
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Sip Craft Cider and Spirits in the Huon Valley
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Catch a Live Show at Theatre Royal
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Experience the Dark Mofo Festival
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Go Wildlife Spotting at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Hike to the Summit of kunanyi/Mount Wellington
No visit to Hobart is complete without heading up to kunanyi/Mount Wellington, the 1,271-meter mountain that watches over the city. You can drive to the summit, but hiking one of the trails—like the Pinnacle Track or the Organ Pipes Trail—gives you a deeper connection to the landscape. At the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views across Hobart, the Derwent River, and the Tasman Peninsula. On clear days, you can see as far as Bruny Island.
The mountain is a year-round destination, though weather conditions can change quickly—so dress accordingly. In summer, the alpine flora is in bloom, while in winter, the summit is sometimes dusted with snow. There are boardwalks, lookouts, and interpretive signs that make the summit both scenic and informative. Whether you’re here to hike, photograph, or just breathe in the mountain air, it’s one of the best free experiences in Hobart.
2. Explore MONA – Museum of Old and New Art
MONA is Hobart’s boldest and most internationally famous attraction, and for good reason—it’s like no other museum in the world. Built into a cliffside along the Derwent River, MONA houses everything from ancient artifacts to provocative modern installations. The experience is immersive, weird, wonderful, and sometimes controversial, challenging your senses and assumptions with every room. The ferry ride from central Hobart to MONA even feels like part of the art.
Open all year, MONA is constantly rotating its exhibits, meaning repeat visits will always show you something new. The grounds also feature a winery, brewery, restaurants, and sprawling outdoor spaces for relaxing or picnicking. During festivals like MONA FOMA and Dark Mofo, the museum becomes the beating heart of Hobart’s creative scene. If you love art that makes you think—or at least talk—MONA is a must.
3. Wander Through Salamanca Market
Every Saturday, Salamanca Place transforms into one of Australia’s most iconic open-air markets. Lined with sandstone buildings and cobblestone streets, the market features over 300 stalls selling local produce, handmade goods, Tasmanian wool, woodcrafts, and delicious street food. The energy is lively, with buskers playing live music and crowds browsing everything from artisan cheese to native plants. It’s a perfect way to start your weekend in Hobart.
The market is held rain or shine year-round, and each season brings its own charm—summer crowds and fresh berries, autumn apples, winter mulled cider, and spring flowers. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or just soaking up the vibe, Salamanca Market is pure Hobart. Go early to beat the rush and enjoy a hot coffee while watching the waterfront wake up. You’ll likely leave with more than you planned to buy.
4. Take a Day Cruise on the River Derwent
The River Derwent is more than just a backdrop—it’s a gateway to stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters. Day cruises leave from Hobart’s harbor and offer everything from scenic rides past the Iron Pot Lighthouse to gourmet oyster tastings in sheltered coves. You might spot dolphins, sea eagles, or even seals lounging on the rocks. Some cruises also pass by MONA or head toward Bruny Island for an extended adventure.
Cruises run year-round, with glassed-in boats available during cooler months and open-air decks for warm summer days. Each ride gives you a new angle on Hobart’s skyline, the surrounding mountains, and the tranquil Tasmanian coastline. It’s a relaxing and refreshing way to appreciate the region’s natural beauty. Don’t forget your camera—the views are constantly shifting and always photogenic.
5. Visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
Tucked into the northeastern edge of the city, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are some of the oldest and most beautiful in the Southern Hemisphere. With over 14 hectares of themed gardens—including a Japanese garden, a cactus collection, and the world’s only subantarctic plant house—the space is a peaceful retreat in any season. Strolling through the pathways, you’ll encounter everything from ancient trees to seasonal floral displays and native Tasmanian species. There’s also a charming cafĂ© with views over the Derwent River.
Open daily and free to enter, the gardens are stunning throughout the year: tulips in spring, green canopies in summer, autumn’s golden leaves, and winter’s peaceful quiet. Special events like garden talks, exhibitions, and workshops also take place regularly. Whether you’re a plant lover, a photographer, or simply in need of serenity, this is a must-see spot in Hobart.
6. Tour the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site
A visit to Hobart isn’t complete without exploring its convict history, and the Cascades Female Factory offers a deeply moving window into the lives of the women who helped shape early Tasmania. This World Heritage-listed site was once a workhouse for female convicts, many of whom were transported from Britain in the 1800s. Today, it’s an immersive historical experience with guided tours and dramatic performances that bring personal stories to life. The restored grounds and exhibition rooms paint a vivid picture of hardship, resilience, and survival.
The site is open all year, and visiting in different seasons offers a changing experience—lush and green in summer, stark and haunting in winter. Indoor and outdoor exhibits provide plenty to explore regardless of the weather. Interactive programs like the “Her Story” performance give visitors a powerful, emotional understanding of the site’s legacy. It’s a sobering but essential stop for anyone wanting to understand Tasmania’s colonial roots.
7. Sip Craft Cider and Spirits in the Huon Valley
Just a short drive from Hobart, the Huon Valley is a lush, rolling countryside filled with apple orchards, cider houses, and distilleries. Known as Tasmania’s cider capital, the valley is home to top-notch producers where you can sip crisp apple cider or award-winning gin while overlooking hills of green and gold. Tastings often come with local cheeses, wood-fired pizzas, or smoked meats, making it a foodie’s dream. Many cellars also feature live acoustic music on weekends.
The region is accessible year-round and changes beautifully with the seasons—blossoms in spring, fruit picking in summer, harvest festivals in autumn, and cozy tasting rooms in winter. It’s a relaxing half-day or full-day trip that combines the best of Tasmania’s food, drink, and scenery. Whether you’re after a flight of cider or a tour of a copper still, the Huon delivers rural charm and flavorful memories.
8. Catch a Live Show at Theatre Royal
As Australia’s oldest continually operating theatre, the Theatre Royal in Hobart is both a historic landmark and a vibrant cultural hub. Built in 1837, it has hosted everything from Shakespearean plays to cutting-edge contemporary performances, opera, and stand-up comedy. Its elegant, heritage-listed interior provides a beautiful backdrop for any show, and the acoustics are top-tier. The theatre continues to host a packed calendar of productions year-round, many of which showcase local Tasmanian talent.
The venue is cozy, stylish, and easily accessible from Hobart’s center. It’s a great evening activity, whether you’re into drama, dance, or something more offbeat. Ticket prices vary, but there’s something for every budget—and sometimes even free community performances or student showcases. Be sure to check the schedule during your visit—you might catch something unforgettable in one of Australia’s most charming theatres.
9. Experience the Dark Mofo Festival
If you happen to be in Hobart in June, prepare for something truly unique—Dark Mofo, a winter arts festival that pushes boundaries and celebrates the night. Hosted by MONA, the festival includes large-scale art installations, fire rituals, live music, and one of the world’s most infamous events: the Nude Solstice Swim. It’s bold, weird, spiritual, and deeply rooted in Tasmania’s dark winter mood. You’ll find light shows projected onto city buildings, midnight feasts, and a truly wild creative spirit.
Even if you’re not into the edgy stuff, there’s something magical about how Hobart transforms during Dark Mofo. The whole city feels alive with creativity and a willingness to break rules in the name of art. Be sure to dress warm—the Tasmanian winter bites—but you’ll be rewarded with one of the most original cultural experiences in the Southern Hemisphere. Just go with an open mind.
10. Go Wildlife Spotting at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
Located about 30 minutes from Hobart, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is your chance to get up close with Tasmania’s most iconic animals. From Tasmanian devils to wombats, wallabies, and echidnas, the sanctuary focuses on rescue and rehabilitation while offering visitors a chance to connect with native wildlife. Knowledgeable staff and hands-on feeding sessions make it an educational experience for all ages. The sanctuary also leads nighttime tours, offering a unique look at Tasmania’s nocturnal creatures.
Bonorong is open every day of the year, rain or shine. The sanctuary’s mission-driven approach means your visit directly supports animal care and conservation efforts. For animal lovers, this is a heartfelt highlight of any Hobart trip. Don’t forget your camera—the photo ops are as good as the memories.
What to do if you have kids?
Hobart is a fantastic family-friendly city, packed with outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, and hands-on museums. Places like Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, and interactive museum spaces at TMAG (Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery) are perfect for young explorers. Parks and beaches like Long Beach in Sandy Bay offer plenty of safe, open space to run around. Plus, many attractions like MONA and Mount Wellington offer kids’ activities, easy trails, and scenic views to keep them engaged without needing screens.
Where can i find free events in Hobart Australia taking place this weekend?
To discover free events happening in Hobart this weekend, check out PlanMyWeekend.ai. Whether you’re into live music, food trucks, night markets, yoga in the park, or arts pop-ups, our platform shows you what’s on near you in real time. Just enter your location and interests to find hidden gems, budget-friendly adventures, and local favorites. It’s the easiest way to plan a weekend that’s fun, spontaneous, and free.
Final thoughts
Hobart is a rare blend of wild nature, bold art, deep history, and relaxed local charm. Whether you’re hiking mountain trails, exploring convict-era ruins, sipping cider, or diving into dark winter festivals, there’s something in this small city that leaves a big impression. It invites you to explore at your own pace, with year-round experiences that are rich, surprising, and rewarding. If you’re looking for a destination that feels both intimate and unforgettable, Hobart should be at the top of your list. Come once—and you’ll be planning your return before you leave.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
