Discovering Hobart Tasmania: Tasmania’s Capital City

January 16, 2024

There is no place in the world like Tasmania, Australia. It has the cleanest air in the world, some of the world’s rarest species, and holds the world’s oldest continuous civilization—at the heart of it all is its bustling capital city, Hobart. 

Where Is Hobart? 

The state of Tasmania lies about 150 miles south of Victoria’s coast of Australia and contains a whopping 334 islands. Hobart is located on the southeastern corner of the main island, making it the southernmost capital in all of Australia. Because its coast lines the River Derwent, the city has a stunning harbor, the deepest natural port in the world—just one of the many world titles Tasmania holds. Hobart is also one of the gateway cities to Antarctica. This means you would stop here before you head on your epic Antarctica quest. If you look at a map, you’ll see why. From here to Antarctica is vast nothingness. 

Weather In Hobart, Tasmania

For the traveler who can appreciate the shifts of four seasons, this destination is for you. Hobart, Tasmania’s mild climate is most popular in the summer (December-February) when temperatures average between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, but you can book your trip any time of year. Fall temperatures (March-May) typically range from 45 to 65 degrees, winter (June-August) has crisp 40 to 55-degree temperatures, and spring (September-November)—Hobart’s wet season—enjoys a mild 45 to 65-degree climate. 

Most Popular Must-Sees

Hobart, Australia, is chock full of things to do, from its decadent food scene to modern art and much more; here are our favorite stops for your bucket list. 

Salamanca Market

From 8:30 am to 3 pm every Saturday, you can enjoy Hobart’s biggest attraction, the Salamanca Market. This market is the perfect place to find locally made goods while sipping your favorite morning beverage (or even afternoon spirit). You can also grab local produce or enjoy one of the many breakfast and lunch stalls lining the market. It’s a massive market, with 300 stalls and over 40,000 visitors every single Saturday. We particularly love the buskers who help create a beautiful atmosphere that will keep you perusing for hours. 

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery 

A staple of Tasmanian history, founded in 1848, The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is Australia’s second oldest museum. With around 20,000 square feet of artwork, geology exhibits, and a cultural heritage collection, you must carve out a few hours to explore this incredible place.

Climb Mount Wellington

Referred to by locals as “The Mountain,” Mount Wellington towers over Hobart and adds to the picturesque quality of this capital Tasmanian city. But, it is more than a photo backdrop. You can take some time to explore this mountain by one of many walks (hikes) or bike to the Pipeline Track for a thrilling exploration. For a hike, we recommend the famed Organ Pipes and Pinnacle trail or the Wellington Falls Lookout. You will fall in love with the sweeping views of Hobart from Mount Wellington’s vantage point.

Sullivan’s Cove Distillery

Whiskey lover? This distillery consistently earns awards and world titles for its spirits, marking Tasmania as a competitor with Scotland’s famed distillers. Tasmania has some of the cleanest water in the world and has land perfectly primed for barley growth. By treating the entire process—using local ingredients and selecting the casks and bottles—seriously, Sullivan’s Cove continues to be a favorite for locals and tourists alike. Take a tour and enjoy a responsible sip or two.  

Visit MONA

While there are many things to do in Tasmania, one of Hobart’s most controversial sites is worth stopping at. The MONA (The Museum of Old and New Art)—or, as the owner has called it, “The Subversive Adult Disneyland”— is one of the world’s largest privately funded museums. Exhibits explore the subjects of sex and death, which you can learn more about through their system, “the O,” an audio guide of the space. If you want to enjoy some drinks and experience a bit of surprise and maybe even offense, this is the place for you. Plan to take at least half of a day to explore this collection. Some travelers even carve out a few trips to fully immerse themselves in the MONA experience.

Kayak In The Harbor

Set off on a kayaking journey with Roaring 40s Kayaking in this picturesque harbor. A 2.5-hour tour will allow you to explore Hobart like nowhere else. You will see gorgeous homes, paddle past ships, and even potentially meet Sammy, the friendly seal. If that’s not enough, you will enjoy fish and chips straight from your kayak. 

Cascade Brewery and Garden Walk

You can find the oldest operating brewery in all of Australia in Hobart. Cascade Brewery offers historic and brewery tours and is also open for your enjoyment. Like Sullivan’s Cove, Cascade uses local barley, hops, and water, which helps give this beer and cider its distinct flavor. Afterward, you can walk through the beautiful gardens surrounding the brewery and take in the stunning sights and sounds around you. 

Best Hotels in Hobart, Tasmania

Macq 01 Hotel

For a luxurious stay, Macq 01 revels in its story. It highlights Tasmanian indigenous leaders, artisans, and even convict escapees, giving you an experience like no other. They offer experiences like storytelling tours, a day spa, and even local adventures. The bars and restaurants keep the story alive with their unique point of view. 

Henry Jones Art Hotel

This unique hotel hosts 400 pieces of Tasmanian art as Australia’s first art hotel. Each room is decorated differently to embrace you in a different story. But, the hotel doesn’t only offer a peak into local art. It is located in Hobart Tasmania’s oldest waterfront warehouse, dating back to 1823. Its in-house restaurants and bars are the perfect places to enjoy a meal or your favorite cocktail. We love this hotel for a unique stay you won’t experience anywhere else. 

Crowne Plaza Hobart

The Crowne Plaza is located centrally in Hobart and offers modern interior design. It is perfect for the working traveler who will need to access the business district or for the person who wants to unwind at a popular lounge at the end of the day. It is well appointed with a few onsite restaurants and a lovely staff ready to help you with any questions you may have on your trip. 

Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart

One of the most beautiful things about Hobart is the views you can enjoy from anywhere you are. The Grand Chancellor is located on the waterfront and close to the Salamanca Market. You can choose a view of the waterfront or Mount Wellington from your room and then enjoy your time dipping in the indoor rooftop pool or eating at one of its several on-site restaurants. 

If you are looking for a team of travel experts who have experience exploring Hobart and can help guide you through your ideal stay, we can help you. Let us discover your travel style and design a Tasmania trip you will always remember.