If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania, Hobart should definitely be on your list of places to visit. It’s the capital of Tasmania and a charming harbor city that has something for everyone. From stunning natural beauty to rich cultural heritage, Hobart has a lot to offer. In this article, we will highlight the 12 best things to do in Hobart that will make your visit unforgettable.
Discover the history of Hobart at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and art. It’s located in the heart of Hobart and has an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and natural history specimens that tell the story of Tasmania. You can learn about the indigenous people of Tasmania, the European settlement, and the island’s natural environment.
Enjoy the panoramic view from the top of Mount Wellington
Mount Wellington is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hobart, and for good reason. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The mountain is 1,271 meters high and can be reached by car or bike. You can also take a guided tour that will take you to the summit and provide you with some interesting information about the mountain and the area.
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Explore the Salamanca Market for some souvenirs
The Salamanca Market is a vibrant and bustling market that takes place every Saturday in Hobart. It’s a great place to find some unique souvenirs, local produce, and handmade crafts. You can also enjoy some live music and street performers while you’re browsing the stalls.
Visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the heart of Hobart. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature, with its many gardens, lakes, and walking paths. The gardens have a large collection of native and exotic plants, and you can learn about the history of the gardens in the visitor center.
Take a stroll through Battery Point historic district
Battery Point is a charming historic district in Hobart that is known for its beautiful colonial architecture. It’s located just a short walk from the city center and is a great place to take a stroll and admire the old buildings. There are also many cafes, restaurants, and shops in the area.
Learn about the convict past of Tasmania at the Port Arthur Historic Site
The Port Arthur Historic Site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of Tasmania’s convict past. It was once a notorious prison and punishment station for convicts, and now it’s a fascinating museum that offers guided tours and exhibits. You can learn about the harsh conditions that the convicts lived in and hear stories about some of the most notorious prisoners.
Visit the MONA – Museum of Old and New Art
The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is one of the most unique museums in the world, and it’s located just a short ferry ride from Hobart. It was founded by David Walsh, an Australian entrepreneur and art collector, and it’s known for its controversial and thought-provoking exhibits. The museum showcases both modern and ancient art, and you can spend hours exploring the galleries and learning about the art and artists.
Take a ferry to Bruny Island and enjoy the nature
Bruny Island is a beautiful and unspoiled island that is just a short ferry ride from Hobart. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature. You can hike through the forests, explore the beaches, and spot some wildlife, including penguins, seals, and birds. You can also visit the Bruny Island Lighthouse and learn about its history.
Discover the Cascade Brewery and enjoy a beer
The Cascade Brewery is Australia’s oldest brewery, and it’s located in Hobart. It offers guided tours that will take you through the brewing process and teach you about the history of the brewery. You can also enjoy a beer tasting and try some of their famous beers. The brewery is set in beautiful gardens, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a cold beer.
Explore the Hobart waterfront and docks
The Hobart waterfront and docks are a bustling area of the city that offers plenty of things to do and see. You can take a harbor cruise and enjoy the views of the city from the water, or you can explore the many shops and restaurants in the area. You can also visit the Maritime Museum of Tasmania and learn about the maritime history of the area.
Taste some of Tasmania’s best seafood at Mures Upper Deck
Mures Upper Deck is a popular seafood restaurant that is located on the Hobart waterfront. It offers some of the freshest and best seafood in Tasmania, and it’s a great place to try some local delicacies. You can enjoy a meal with a view of the harbor, and you can also visit the fishmonger and take some seafood home with you.
Join a walking tour and explore Hobart’s street art
Hobart has a vibrant and colorful street art scene, and there are many walking tours that will take you through the city’s alleys and laneways. You can see murals, graffiti, and installations that are created by local and international artists. It’s a great way to explore the city and learn about its artistic side.
Conclusion
Hobart is a charming city that offers plenty of things to do and see. From its natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone. We hope this article has given you some inspiration for your visit to Hobart and that you’ll enjoy exploring the city’s many attractions.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Hobart?
- The best time to visit Hobart is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
- How long should I stay in Hobart?
- We recommend staying in Hobart for at least 3-4 days to explore the city and its surroundings.
- Is Hobart expensive to visit?
- Hobart can be expensive to visit, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options for accommodation, food, and activities.
- What is the closest airport to Hobart?
- Hobart International Airport is the closest airport to Hobart, and it’s located just 20 minutes from the city center.
- Can I see the Aurora Australis from Hobart?
- Yes, it’s possible to see the Aurora Australis from Hobart, but it’s not a common occurrence. Your best chance of seeing the Southern Lights is during the winter months (June to August) when the nights are long and dark.
- What is the best way to get around Hobart?
- Hobart is a small city, and it’s easy to get around on foot. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas, you can rent a car or take public transportation.
- What is the history of Hobart?
- Hobart was founded in 1804 as a penal colony by the British. It was named after Lord Hobart, who was the Colonial Secretary at the time. Hobart played an important role in the development of Tasmania and Australia, and it has a rich cultural heritage.
- What is the weather like in Hobart?
- Hobart has a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. The average temperature in summer is around 21°C (70°F), while the average temperature in winter is around 12°C (54°F).
- Can I visit Hobart as a day trip from other parts of Tasmania?
- Yes, it’s possible to visit Hobart as a day trip from other parts of Tasmania. However, we recommend staying in Hobart for at least a few days to fully experience the city and its attractions.
- What is the best way to experience Hobart’s food scene?
- Hobart has a thriving food scene, and the best way to experience it is to explore the city’s many restaurants, cafes, and markets. We recommend trying some of Tasmania’s famous seafood and visiting the Salamanca Market, which is held every Saturday and offers a wide variety of local produce and crafts.