Posted by Nestled between the foothills of kunanyi/Mt Wellington and the serene waters of the River Derwent, Hobart is a charming blend of history, creativity, and natural beauty. As Tasmania’s capital, the city offers an inviting mix of colonial architecture, vibrant art scenes, fresh seafood, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re wandering through heritage precincts like Battery Point, admiring world-class art at MONA, or simply sipping coffee along the lively waterfront, Hobart delivers a rich and laid-back experience. It’s a destination that rewards slow travel, curious minds, and anyone looking to connect with nature and culture in equal measure. Here are our Top Things To Do in Hobart!
Note: For those who’d like to dive deeper into our travels, our book Exploring Around Australia has now been published and is available on Amazon, capturing our journey across the country through personal stories and experiences:
https://www.amazon.com.au/Exploring-Around-Australia-Nathanael-Nunag/dp/B0GDQR28KR
1.) Stroll Hobart’s Historic Waterfront
Hobart’s waterfront is the city’s vibrant heart, where history, culture, and cuisine converge along the picturesque Sullivans Cove. Strolling past the heritage sandstone warehouses of Hunter Street and the lively Constitution Dock, you’ll encounter floating seafood punts serving freshly caught fish and chips, cozy cafes, and bustling restaurants. This area is also the finish line for the iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, adding a festive atmosphere during the summer months. Nearby, the Brooke Street Pier serves as a modern ferry terminal and market space, offering local crafts and gourmet treats. Whether you’re savoring Tasmania’s renowned seafood, exploring the historic docks, or simply enjoying the maritime ambiance, Hobart’s waterfront offers a quintessential Tasmanian experience. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
2.) Eat Your Way Through Hobart: A City of Culinary Surprises
Hobart’s dining scene is an absolute treat for food lovers, offering everything from waterfront fine dining to cozy cafés tucked in laneways. Exploring the city through its restaurants is a journey in itself—start your day with a hearty brunch at a local favorite in Salamanca, then enjoy freshly caught seafood along Constitution Dock, or tuck into modern Tasmanian cuisine in chic, contemporary spots scattered across the city. From handmade pastas and woodfired pizzas to native-inspired tasting menus and award-winning desserts, each restaurant brings a slice of Tasmania’s rich produce and creativity to the table. Dining in Hobart isn’t just about eating—it’s about slowing down and savoring the island’s best in every bite. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
3.) Parliament of Tasmania Tours
Located in Hobart between Salamanca Place and Murray Street, the Parliament House is a beautifully preserved Georgian sandstone building that has served as Tasmania’s seat of government since 1856. Visitors can explore its rich history and architecture through free public tours that include visits to both the House of Assembly and Legislative Council chambers, as well as the Parliamentary Museum. These tours provide fascinating insights into the state’s democratic processes and heritage. Bookings are encouraged, especially for groups, and more in-depth guided walking tours including Parliament House and other historic sites in Hobart are also available. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about Tasmania’s political landscape, a visit to Parliament House offers a captivating glimpse into the state’s governance. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
4.) Uncover Stories of the Past: Museums in Hobart
Hobart is home to a compelling collection of museums that showcase Tasmania’s rich cultural, natural, and artistic heritage. The most renowned is the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), a bold and provocative space that blends ancient artifacts with cutting-edge contemporary art—an experience as much about feeling as it is about viewing. For those interested in natural history and Aboriginal culture, the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) offers well-curated exhibits in a beautiful colonial building near the waterfront. Meanwhile, the Maritime Museum of Tasmania celebrates Hobart’s long relationship with the sea, featuring ship models, old maps, and seafaring stories. Each museum invites visitors to explore Tasmania from different angles—whether artistic, historical, or scientific—making them essential stops on your Hobart itinerary. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
5.) Memorials
Hobart’s memorials offer quiet places for reflection while telling powerful stories of Tasmania’s role in global and local history. The most prominent is the Hobart Cenotaph, perched on the Queens Domain with sweeping views of the River Derwent. This striking art deco monument honors Tasmanians who served in major conflicts since World War I. Nearby, the Soldiers Memorial Avenue features hundreds of trees, each dedicated to a fallen soldier from the First World War, offering a moving, tree-lined path for remembrance. At Cornelian Bay Cemetery, you’ll also find the Rabaul Memorial, commemorating Tasmanian soldiers of the 2/22nd Battalion who served in World War II. These memorials are more than monuments—they are part of the city’s living memory, inviting both locals and visitors to pause, learn, and pay respect. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
6.) Royal Botanical Garden
The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, located just 2 kilometers from Hobart’s city center, is Australia’s second-oldest botanical garden, established in 1818. Spanning 14 hectares, it offers a diverse collection of native and exotic plants, including rare and threatened Tasmanian species. A standout feature is the Subantarctic Plant House, the only one of its kind globally, showcasing flora from Macquarie Island in a climate-controlled environment. Visitors can also explore themed areas like the Japanese Garden and the historic Arthur Wall, designed to radiate heat and protect plants during colder months. The gardens are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with free entry, making it an ideal spot for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply enjoying the serene environment. For those interested in a guided experience, 1-hour walking tours are available on weekends at 10:30 AM, and scenic buggy tours can be arranged. The on-site visitor center houses a restaurant, souvenir shop, and a gallery with regularly changing displays by local artists. In 2025, the gardens are set to enhance their hospitality offerings with the introduction of a new tasting room and restaurant by renowned South Australian winery Bird in Hand, aiming to showcase Tasmania’s cool-climate wines and local produce. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
7.) Study in University of Tasmania
The University of Tasmania (UTAS) offers a diverse and enriching educational experience, combining academic excellence with Tasmania’s unique environment. With campuses in Hobart, Launceston, Cradle Coast, and Sydney, UTAS provides a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across various disciplines, including Business, Engineering, Marine & Antarctic Studies, Arts, and Health Sciences . The university is recognized globally, ranking within the top 350 universities worldwide . UTAS is committed to accessibility and inclusivity, offering pathway programs for students from diverse backgrounds . Additionally, the university provides a range of scholarships to support both domestic and international students . Studying at UTAS not only offers quality education but also the opportunity to immerse oneself in Tasmania’s vibrant culture and stunning natural landscapes. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
8.) Shop Local, Shop Hobart: A Blend of Charm and Craftsmanship
Hobart offers a shopping experience that’s both charming and uniquely Tasmanian. From the lively Salamanca Market—held every Saturday with hundreds of stalls selling local art, produce, and crafts—to the Farm Gate Market on Sundays where you can sample the island’s freshest gourmet fare, Hobart is a haven for market lovers. In the city center, Elizabeth Street Mall and Cat and Fiddle Arcade host a mix of major brands and boutique finds, while specialty stores like Hill Street Grocer offer high-quality local goods perfect for foodie souvenirs. Whether you’re after handmade jewelry, fresh truffles, designer clothes, or a quirky keepsake, Hobart’s blend of local artisans and modern retailers makes shopping here a genuinely enjoyable experience. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
9.) Discover Hobart’s Hidden Gems: Architecture, Street Art, and Urban Vibes
Beyond the well-trodden paths, Hobart invites you to explore its lesser-known corners filled with character and creativity. Wander through historic neighborhoods like Battery Point to admire charming colonial architecture with quaint cottages and beautifully preserved heritage buildings. Meanwhile, the city’s laneways and walls burst with vibrant street art and graffiti, showcasing the work of local and international artists that add a colorful, contemporary edge to Hobart’s urban landscape. Whether you’re marveling at intricate ironwork on old facades or snapping photos of bold murals, this deeper dive into Hobart’s cityscape reveals a fascinating blend of past and present waiting to be discovered. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
10.) Ascend to Mt. Wellington: Hobart’s Majestic Peak Awaits
Rising 1,271 meters above Hobart, kunanyi/Mt Wellington offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Derwent River, and the surrounding wilderness. Whether you’re an avid hiker or prefer a scenic drive, the summit is accessible via various routes. For those seeking adventure, the Circuit Walk provides a challenging yet rewarding hike, combining several tracks to form a loop to the Pinnacle summit and back down to The Springs . Alternatively, the kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer Bus offers a comfortable 2-hour return tour, departing daily from Hobart’s waterfront and providing spectacular views from the summit . At the summit, visitors can enjoy the Pinnacle Observation Shelter, which offers shelter and information about the mountain’s ecosystems and history. The open-air observation decks are accessible 24/7, providing a perfect spot for sunrise or sunset views . For those interested in a guided experience, various tours are available, offering insights into the mountain’s diverse ecosystems and rich history . Whether you’re hiking, driving, or taking a tour, ascending to Mt. Wellington is a must-do activity for visitors to Hobart. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
