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For other places with the same name, see Hobart (disambiguation).
View of the Hobart central business district and Mt Wellington from Constitution Dock

Hobart is the capital city of the Australian state of Tasmania and is Australia's second oldest city, after Sydney. Hobart sits along the Derwent River and began humbly as a penal colony. Hobart is now a small and intimate city with a population of around 220,000 in the Greater Hobart area. The city is renowned for its many historic buildings, including the famous Salamanca Place, and is the gateway to Southern Tasmania. Hobart played a major role during the heroic age of Antarctic exploration and is one of the five gateway cities to Antarctica.

Understand

History

Founded in 1804 by Colonel David Collins, Hobart is the second oldest city in Australia. It grew out of the penal settlement on the island at Risdon Cove, 8 km upriver, which was founded in 1803 and abandoned five months later for the present site of Hobart.

In the first half of the 1800s, the whaling boom generated a surge in maritime support industries and infrastructure. Whaling ceased in the late 1800s, but Hobart never lost its boat-building, ship-chandlery and provedoring legacy. This made Hobart a logical staging post in the heroic age of Antarctic exploration. France’s Dumont d’Urville, Australia’s Douglas Mawson, England’s James Clark Ross, and Norway’s Carsten Borchgrevink and Roald Amundsen all paused in the Derwent on their way to Antarctica.

In December 1911, the Australasian Antarctic Expedition led by Mawson was given a rousing send-off from Hobart’s Sullivans Cove. A few months later, Amundsen brought Fram into Hobart in order to send a telegram to the King of Norway with the news that his party had reached the South Pole. After sending the telegram, Amundsen publicly announced his feat from the Hobart General Post Office sandstone steps. A few months later, Mawson’s Antarctic party sent the first wireless messages from Antarctica to the outside world – to a receiving station on Hobart’s Queens Domain.

Climate

Hobart
Climate chart (explanation)
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Average max. and min. temperatures in °C
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Check Hobart's 7 day forecast at BOM.gov.au
Imperial conversion
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Hobart has a mild temperate oceanic climate owing to its fairly high latitude (42.88°S) and proximity to the Southern Ocean. As such, daily temperatures rarely reach above the low 20s, except during rare heat waves in summer. Nightly lows typically range around 10-12°C during summer and 4-5°C in winter, so cold weather gear is recommended all year round. It is not unheard of for temperatures to drop below zero during winter, with Hobart's lowest temperature on record being a chilly -2.8°C. Interestingly, Hobart has the second fewest daily hours of sunlight out of all Australian cities, at 5.9 hours on average for the year. However, during the summer it has the most hours of daylight of any Australian city, with 15.2 hours on the summer solstice.

Rainfall is fairly similar year round, averaging 50 mm per month, occurring around 15 days a month during winter and 10 days a month during summer. Despite the cold weather and occasional rainfall you should not expect to see any snow within Hobart, although it is not unheard of. The city receives snowfall at sea level on average only once every 15 years, caused by cold masses arriving from Antarctica. More often, some outlying suburbs of Hobart at higher elevation can receive snowfall. The nearby Mount Wellington is often seen snowcapped year round, and its temperatures are much colder than Hobart — typically 10 degrees colder and easily reaching below zero during winter.

Visitor Centre

Get in

By plane

  • 1 Hobart International Airport (HBA  IATA) (situated 15 km (9.3 mi) north east of Hobart in Cambridge). The primary airport serving southern Tasmania. Despite being called an international airport, there have been no scheduled international flights since 1998. Hobart Airport (Q15498) on Wikidata Hobart International Airport on Wikipedia 

Airlines serving the airport include Jetstar, Qantas, Tigerair Australia and Virgin Australia with flights from:

  • Brisbane operated by Jetstar and Virgin Australia.
  • Gold Coast operated by Tigerair Australia.
  • Melbourne operated by Jetstar, Qantas, Tigerair Australia and Virgin Australia.
  • Sydney operated by Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia.
  • Adelaide operated by Jetstar

Ground Transportation options from Hobart Airport include an airport shuttle operated by SkyBus which meets every arriving flight and serves most accommodation within Hobart. Reservations are not necessary for Hobart bound trips on this shuttle, but are required for the return leg to the airport. A ticket costs $19/35 for Adults and $14/25 for Children or pensioners for one-way/return trips respectively. Those wanting a faster or more direct option should consider taking a taxi. Depending on traffic the journey should take around 20-25 minutes and cost approximately $38-45. Car rental is also available at Hobart Airport with rental companies including Avis, Bargain Car Rentals, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Red Spot and Thrifty. All of the car rental offices are just past the arrivals gates on the way to the exit

Hobart has a small airport for the volume of passenger traffic it often accommodates. You'll have no problem finding the cafes, bars, and bookshops that are mandatory airport fare, and a souvenir shop. On the positive side you can expect to get your luggage quickly through onto the conveyor. On the negative side, there isn't enough seating in the departure lounge for a few full flights departing simultaneously. You'll still be walking across the tarmac to get on your flight.

By car

Hobart can be easily reached from all other cities and towns in Tasmania by car. Driving from Launceston via National Highway 1 takes around 2.5 hrs with car hire available from the airport or in the Launceston itself. You can also take a car from mainland Australia via Devonport, with a ferry departing nightly from Melbourne. The journey from Devonport takes around 4 hrs.

By ship

Hobart offers a beautiful deep-water port with cruise ship berths in the heart of the historic Salamanca area of the city. Large cruise ships dock at Macquarie Wharf. Volunteer greeters meet the cruise ships, answer questions, and point the way. The immediate area, which includes Constitution and Victoria Docks, offers shopping for art, crafts, clothing and souvenirs; light snacks and food; fishing boats; a yacht basin; and the maritime museum.

Hobart cruise ship calendar

By bus

2 Hobart Transit Centre 230 Liverpool Street is where Redline coaches arrive from Devonport via Launceston, with one or two services most days.

3 Brisbane St Terminus is where Tassielink coaches arrive from Devonport via Launceston, East Coast, Port Arthur and the West coast.

Get around

By foot

Walking is the best way to explore the downtown area. It is easy to walk between the city centre, Salamanca, and the port/harbour area. If you are staying in the Salamanca area, you may not need any other form of transport. Between the City Centre and Sandy Bay via Battery Point is only half an hour to walk (although there are some hills).

By bus

Hobart has a sufficient public bus system. The main interchange is in front of the GPO (General Post Office). Ticket prices depend on the distance and start slightly above a dollar. Services are considerably less frequent on Sundays. Timetables are all available online from the MetroTas website.

By bicycle

Hobart is hilly any which way you choose to head, so bike riders should be prepared for hills. There is a poorly developed network of off-road cyclepaths, but Hobart drivers tend to be tolerant of cyclists, and most roads tend to be wide enough to accommodate them. One old railway line from the city as far as Claremont has been converted to a first-class cycle and walking path (take care from motor vehicles at intersections).

By car

To see areas further afield, a car is useful. Roads are generally not congested, although you can expect to pay for parking in the city areas. Avoid driving in the Salamanca area on a Saturday, due to road closures and traffic snarls due to the markets.

By boat

Numerous ferries, sightseeing harbour cruises and a water taxi service operate from the Hobart docks (Brooke St Pier) to outlying attractions including MONA at Berriedale. Some of these include dining on board, while others may terminate at a site with a restaurant such as Peppermint Bay and MONA.

See

Buildings and landmarks

As one of Australia's oldest cities, Hobart is home to a multitude of historical buildings that often showcase splendid examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture. In fact, over 90 buildings within Hobart are classified by the National Trust, with around 60 of these located along Macquarie St and Davey St alone. Many, but not all, of the historical buildings are located within or near Hobart's Central Business District (CBD) or around Battery Point.

Cascades Female Factory
  • 1 Battery Point (Located behind Salamanca Place). One of Hobart's oldest suburbs, the area is named after a battery of guns put on the point in 1818. Whilst the guns have long been removed this area still retains much of its historic charm. Many buildings are of historical value, with some constructed with golden sandstone that was quarried from the area. If you venture deep within Battery Point, you may stumble upon 2 Nanny Goat Lane, a well-known steep laneway with superb views of the suburbs at the top and a whimsical sign to match its odd name. (updated Feb 2018)
  • 3 Cascades Female Factory, 16 Degraves St, ☏ +61 3 6233 6656, . Daily 9:30AM-4PM. This site operated as a female factory between 1828 and 1856, which was intended to reform female convicts and segregate them from the "temptations" of Hobart. The ladies of this female factory were often completing many chores, such as needlework and laundry. The factory is now one of 11 penal sites that make up the Australian Convict Sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list. A daily Heritage tour runs several times daily and an additional show, title Her Story, runs daily at 11AM. Entry: $5; Entry + tour: Adults $15, Child $10; Her Story show: Adult $20, Child $12.50. 
The sandstone facade of Parliament House
  • 4 Parliament House of Tasmania, ☏ +61 3 6212 2248, . Built as a customs house, the Parliament House of Tasmania opened in 1840, but came to serve solely as the state's Parliament House in 1904. The building comprises 3 levels with various areas including the House of Assembly, Legislative Council, Parliamentary Library and Parliamentary Museum. Tours of the Parliament are available to the public which run on non-sitting days(See their website for non-sitting days) at 10AM or 2PM. Another option would be to sit in the public gallery during sitting days. 
  • 5 Penitentiary Chapel, Cnr Brisbane St & Campbell St, ☏ +61 3 6231 0911. Day Tour: F Su 10AM, 11:30AM, 1PM, 2:30PM, Sa 1PM, 2:30PM; Ghost Tour: M F by appointment. This historic site was built as a chapel for male convicts, built with solitary confinement cells underneath the building and was converted into a supreme criminal court and prison chapel, complete with gallows and an execution yard. The site can only be visited by tours which run during the day, or a ghost tour that runs at night. Day Tour: Adult $12, Concession $10, Child $5; Ghost Tour: Adult $15, Child/Concession $10. 
  • 6 Salamanca Place. Named after the main street that this area runs along, Salamanca Place is home to rows of colonial style sandstone buildings that were once warehouses built to service the 19th-century whaling industry. Today this area has been converted into a precinct of restaurants, bars, galleries and craft shops. Make sure you venture behind the row of shops along Salamanca Place as there are lots to explore around this area. Salamanca Place is also home to the famous Salamanca Markets every Saturday. 
  • 7 Shot Tower, Channel Hwy, ☏ +61 3 6227 8885. Daily 9AM-5PM (In winter 9AM-4PM). This historic landmark boasts the titles of being the first shot tower in Australia and the tallest shot tower in the southern hemisphere. Built in 1870, the Shot Tower is 48 m tall and made from sandstone, just like many of Hobart's historic buildings. You can climb the 259 wooden steps to the top of the tower which pays off with exceptional views the Derwent Estuary and countryside. Adult $8, Child $4, Under 5 free. 
  • 8 Sullivan's Cove. This area is home to Hobart's main waterfront area and was the original landing point by European settlers in 1804. Most locals come here to sit, relax and, if hungry, enjoy some of Tasmania's finest seafood. Constitution Dock, within the cove, is particularly famous as it is the finishing point of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race which is held from Boxing Day (December 26) each year. 
  • Government House. Next to the Botanic Gardens, Government House is a grand old building. Keep an eye out for one of the open days, as it is well worth a visit to the vice-regal residence.
  • 9 Franklin Square (between the Hobart CBD and Sullivans Cove, on the Macquarie Street ridge). This oak-lined public space in Central Hobart is named after the explorer Sir John Franklin. Between voyages, he served as Lieutenant-Governor of Van Diemen's Land (as Tasmania was then known) from 1837 to 1843. The centrepiece of the park is a statue of him, with an epitaph by Alfred, Lord Tennyson. Franklin Square (Q16891425) on Wikidata Franklin Square (Hobart) on Wikipedia (updated May 2020)

Museums and art galleries

One of Hobart's biggest cultural drawcards is the multitude of museums and art galleries that are dotted around the city. Many of the exhibits, particularly in the museums, have a distinct Antarctic theme, a result of Hobart's long history of being a Gateway City to East Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is among the best museums in Australia has and has fast become a Hobart icon.

  • 10 Australian Antarctic Division, 203 Channel Hwy, ☏ +61 3 6232 3209. M-F 8:30AM-5PM. An institute that is part of the Australian Government, their role is to ensure Australia's Antarctic interests are best served. There is a visitor's centre onsite with exhibits that explore the history of Antarctic expeditions, the scientific research and logistical support that is required for Australia's Antarctic program. There is also an extensive library with books relating to all thing Antarctic. Free. 
  • 11 Australian Army Museum Tasmania, Anglesea Barracks, Davey St, ☏ +61 3 6237 7160. Tu Th Sa 9AM-1PM. It's within the grounds of the historic Anglesea Barracks, which were established in 1811. This museum covers Tasmania's military history. While the barracks remain an active Australian Defence Force base it is open to the public, and has interesting displays of weapons and several historically significant monuments. These include the only war memorial to have been erected by the many British Army units which undertook garrison duties in colonial Australia. They also offer a guided tour of the barracks on Tuesday at 11AM. Adult $5, child $1. Military Museum of Tasmania (Q4348847) on Wikidata Australian Army Museum Tasmania on Wikipedia 
  • 12 Maritime Museum of Tasmania, 16 Argyle St, ☏ +61 3 6234 1427, . Daily 9AM-5PM. This museum houses the largest collection of maritime artefacts in Tasmania. Displays include information on the early maritime history of Tasmania, the role of lighthouses, the whaling industry, maritime trade, boat building and shipping. Adult $9.00, concession $7.00, student $5.00, child free. 
  • 13 Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum, 5a Morrison St, ☏ +61 3 6231 1518, . Daily 9AM-6PM (Nov–Mar) and 10AM-5PM (Apr–Oct). One of Hobart's newest attractions, this museum is a replica of the base stations constructed for Douglas Mawson's Australiasian Antarctic expedition of 1911. It features amenities and conditions that would have been experienced by those who first lived inside the huts. Adult $12, concession $10, child $4. 
Arriving at MONA on the ferry
  • 14 Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), 655 Main Rd (Brooke St Pier or Metrobus 42, 111, 117-122, X1-X3), ☏ +61 3 6277 9900, . W-M 10AM-5PM (open 7 days/week in Jan). This world-class museum of contemporary art has created a buzz in Hobart. Visitor opinions diverge from spectacular, to confronting to I just don't see what the fuss is about. The museum has a decidedly adult feel, so may not be the ideal place for kids. For those who don't get it, there are impressive views over the Derwent River along with a cafe and Morilla Winery on site. The building itself is quite interesting and is worth a look at. There are also some "traditional art" pieces, including some mummies. Ferries run at least five times a day from Brooke St Pier which offers a scenic journey along the Derwent River. Bookings for the ferry are required and cost $20 one-way or return. You can also drive to MONA, with limited parking, or go by bus. Adult $20, concession $15, under 18 or Tasmanian resident free. Museum of Old and New Art (Q2353030) on Wikidata Museum of Old and New Art on Wikipedia (updated Oct 2017)
The colonial style exterior of TMAG
  • 15 Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG), Dunn Pl, ☏ +61 3 6211 4134, . Daily 10AM-5PM. Established in 1843 by the Royal Society of Tasmania, TMAG is an impressive natural history museum, art gallery and herbarium in one. It boasts various exhibits with Tasmanian, Australian and International themes. Displays include wildlife collections, the history of Tasmania, medal and coin collections, indigenous collections, contemporary art and classical art galleries. Islands to Ice is an exciting permanent exhibition of Antarctic natural history, exploration and science that also gives an insight to what it is like to live and work in some of the most inhospitable climates on earth. It is a must see for all Antarctic enthusiasts. Free, special exhibits may require paid entry. 

Nature and wildlife

  • 16 Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, 593 Briggs Rd, ☏ +61 3 6268 1184, . Daily 9AM-5PM. Established in 1981, this wildlife sanctuary aims to care for injured and orphaned wildlife, with all proceeds going to maintaining the park. The park is home to wildlife including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, koalas, Tasmanian devils, and a more than 100-year-old cockatoo. A daily tour is held at 11:30AM and 2PM where they introduce you to the current residents of the sanctuary and lets you feed them. They also help discuss ways to help local wildlife if you ever spot one in danger or notice roadkill. Private tours are also available for those willing to pay, which are exceptional and allow for you to get up close and personal with the wildlife. Adult $25, Child $11, Under 3 free. Daily tour free, private tours $149-179. (updated Oct 2017)
  • 17 Mount Nelson, Nelson Rd. A lookout that is a great, but lower altitude, alternative to the more popular Mount Wellington, still with some impressive views of Hobart and the Derwent River. There is also a restaurant and a picnic area at the top so you can bask in the views while having a bite to eat. For those who enjoy a leisurely trek there are two walks to climb up or down the mountain that lead to Sandy Bay near Wrest Point Casino or through the Truganini Reserve to the Channel Highway. 
  • 18 Mount Wellington (Indigenous name Kunanyi), Wellington Park, ☏ +61 3 6238 2176, . Situated within Wellington Park, Mt Wellington peaks at 1,270 m with breathtaking views of the Derwent River and Greater Hobart Region. At the top of the road up the mountain is the Pinnacle Observation Shelter, an indoor viewing area with binoculars. There are also several other lookouts on the way up to the peak. Your main options for heading up the mountain include taking your own car, going with a private tour operator or walking, if you are adventurous. Temperatures at the summit can range from 4-13°C in summer to -2-4°C in winter, so be sure to bring along warm clothes. It will often be 10-15° cooler at the top of Mt Wellington than it is in Hobart. There are multiple activities to do on the mountains, including cycling and hiking. See the Do section below for more information. Free. kunanyi / Mount Wellington (Q204552) on Wikidata Mount Wellington (Tasmania) on Wikipedia (updated Mar 2019)
  • 19 Queens Domain (The Domain), Off Brooker Ave. Walk from the city a few blocks towards the Tasman bridge and you'll suddenly be out of the city and amongst greenery and trees on the Domain. (head towards the bridge from the city but once you see greenery head up the hill towards it) Of note is the fact that you can always be sure to see plenty of parrots in the trees. They are relatively tame so it's a superb opportunity to see some brightly coloured parrots up close. 
  • 20 Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, Lower Domain Rd, Queens Domain, ☏ +61 3 6236 3076, . Daily, Oct-Mar: 8AM-6:30PM, Apr-Sep: 8AM-5PM. Established in 1818 within the grounds of The Domain. The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens showcase 6,500 species, including over 400 Tasmanian species. One of the most popular displays here is the Subantarctic Plant House, which contains subantarctic plant species collected by staff from Macquarie Island and is climate controlled to mimic cold high latitude environments. Other collections include traditional Japanese and Chinese gardens, a rain garden, a lily pond and the Tasmanian Fernery. Entry by donations. 

The stars

Hobart is one of the most easily accessible places to view the Southern Lights or Aurora Australis. Your chances depend on the space weather, and to have a good chance of seeing the aurora you'll want a K-Index above 6. You can see the current K-Index (updated every 20 minutes) at the Australia Space Weather Services. They have forecasts there for space weather for the next several days.

Do

Hobart waterfront statuary: Antarctic explorers
  • Polar Pathways - Historical walking tour and driving tour - allows visitors to explore some of Hobart’s unique Antarctic and Southern Ocean sites and connections, such as life-size bronze statues commemorating the exploits of Antarctic explorers or Hadley’s Hotel where Roald Amundsen stayed in March 1912 after returning from his journey to the South Pole. Go to the Tasmania Travel Information Centre and pick up a Polar Pathways brochure and map.

Cinema

  • 1 State Cinema, 375 Elizabeth St, ☏ +61 3 6234 6318. Daily 10AM-9PM. A local independent cinema that is over 100 years old and has witnessed many changes in its lifetime from silent black and white films through to the modern technology of today. This cinema specialises in a variety of movies including local, Australian and International film which tend away from the typical blockbuster and mainstream genres. Along with 8 theatres, a bar, a cafe and a bookshop there is also a rooftop cinema which is open during the warmer months. 
  • 2 Village Cinemas, 181 Collins St, ☏ 1300 555 400 (local rate). Daily 10AM-9:30PM. Village is an Australia-wide cinema that has several locations within Hobart, with the Collins St cinema being their main CBD outlet. They primarily screen mainstream and blockbuster movies. 

Gambling

Wrest Point Hotel Casino, looking very 1970s

If you find gambling and betting entertaining then Hobart has a modest set of venues for you to explore. The most well known is Wrest Point Casino, which happens to be the very first legal casino built in Australia. Other options include the local racecourse for horse and hound racing along with various lotteries and statewide betting agencies.

  • 3 Elwick Racecourse (Ladbrokes Park Elwick), 6 Goodwood Rd, ☏ +61 3 6272 9492. The local racecourse that hosts horse racing and greyhound racing with around 102 race meeting and 210 trial days per year. The main yearly race event is the Hobart Cup, Tasmania's primary thoroughbred horse race held on in February each year. Elwick Racecourse (Q7688404) on Wikidata Elwick Racecourse on Wikipedia 
  • 4 Wrest Point Hotel Casino, 410 Sandy Bay Rd, ☏ +61 3 6211 1750, . ?AM-5AM. Boasting the title of Australia's first casino, Wrest Point have been renovated several times but still feel like it is somewhat stuck in the 1970s. It still functions perfectly fine as a casino or for a drink. There are various restaurants and bars throughout the complex including a French cuisine inspired revolving restaurant at the top of the tower. On the gambling front, the offering is modest. Most of the gaming areas are poker machines (slot machines), and the table gaming floor is quite small and approachable. 

Factory tours

  • 5 Cadbury Visitors Centre, 100 Cadbury Rd, toll-free: 1800 627 367. M-F 8AM-4PM (May-Oct) or 8AM-3:30PM (Nov-Apr). At the Cadbury factory, you can no longer view their manufacturing areas. However, you do get to listen to talks about how the chocolate is manufactured and the history of Cadbury along with a small museum of Cadbury memorabilia. After this you are then free to explore the chocolate shop which has massive discounts compared to retail, the souvenir shop and also a cafe to perhaps get a hot chocolate. You will also have the chance to sample some of the chocolate varieties. Adult $4, Child free. 
  • 6 Cascade Brewery, 140 Cascade Rd, ☏ +61 3 6224 1117. Daily 10AM-4PM. Australia's oldest brewery offers two tours for you to enjoy. The Brewery Tour explores within the brewery where you learn about their primary beers and how they are produced before visiting the Woodstock Gardens. This tour includes 3 drink tokens to use during the tour and is only for people above 16 years old who do not require a walking aid. If taking the brewery tour note that visitors must wear flat covered shoes and long pants. The alternative Heritage Tour is for people of all ages and explores the surrounding area of the brewery including the gardens and the Cascade museum, with tastings of beers provided for those above the age of 18. Both tours run for around 1½ hours. Brewery tour: Adult $25, Senior or Concession $20. Heritage tour: Adult $15, Child $8. 
  • 7 Moo Brew, 76a Cove Hill Rd, ☏ +61 3 6277 9900, . F 12:45PM-1:45PM. This microbrewery specialises in making five types of beer: a Pilsner, a German-style Hefeweizen, a Belgian Pale Ale, an American Pale Ale and an American Dark Ale. The beer ingredients are kept simple and are unpasteurised, with no preservatives or additives. Their tour gives you a behind the scenes look at just how they make their beers along with samples. A complimentary bus operates from Brooke St Pier in the city at noon and stops at MONA to pick up any extra passengers around 12:30PM. There is also ample parking on-site if you wish to take your own car. $30. 

Scenic tours

  • Walk, The tourist information has a free booklet of walks in Hobart and up Mt Wellington. Kingston has a similar booklet
  • Mount Wellington Descent. Provides downhill bicycle tours from the summit of Mt Wellington, with transport from Hobart included. 
  • Mount Wellington Shuttle. Bus that takes you to the top of Mt Wellington and spend some time looking out over the city before bringing you back to the city centre. Includes a tour guide that provides information on the drive up.
  • 8 Peppermint Bay Cruise, Brooke St Pier, Sullivans Cove, ☏ 1300 137 919 (local rate). Departs 11AM, Returns 4PM. You start off in Hobart and board a passenger yacht (catamaran), which takes you for a cruise around the bay. On the way to Peppermint Bay the crew points out different sites like Salmon Farms, Local Sealife, and geographic wonders. When you arrive at Peppermint Bay you are treated to a Tasmanian clambake, of clam chowder, fish, and rock lobster. The restaurant decor includes rich hardwood floors and a wall that is completely made of glass so that you can enjoy the picturesque scenery. Adult $98, Child $68. 

Theatre & music

Hobart is fast becoming a cultural hub within Tasmania and boasts some well known theatres and music venues, including the famous Theatre Royal. Those looking for local music gigs should check out The Dwarf Gig Guide for Tasmania. The guide has information on all live music gigs for the next month in advance.

  • 9 Federation Concert Hall, 1 Davey St, ☏ +61 3 6232 4450, . One of Hobart's newest venues, established in 2000, the Federation Concert Hall is home to the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. The concert hall itself is an international standard venue and one of Hobart's premier entertainment venues. It is connected to the adjacent Hotel Grand Chancellor, with a 1100-seat capacity in the hall and also additional conference and exhibition rooms. 
  • 10 Peacock Theatre (Salamanca Arts Centre), 77 Salamanca Pl, ☏ +61 3 6234 8414. One of Hobart's smaller theatres, seating 165, the Peacock is located in the heart of the historic Salamanca Place. The stage itself has a natural sandstone backdrop, owing to the fact the theatre was built into the foot of a quarry. 
  • 11 Theatre Royal, 29 Campbell St, ☏ +61 3 6233 2299. Hobart's famous theatre, and Australia's oldest, that opened in 1837 and has been saved from demolition on countless occasions. The interior fittings of the theatre contrast striking red velvet seating and curtains against white and gold walls with intricate detailing. You don't have to watch a show to visit the theatre as a 45-minute tour operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11AM. Tour: adults $12, concession/pensioners $10. 
  • 12 The Playhouse Theatre, 106 Bathurst St, ☏ +61 3 6234 1536. Another one of Hobart's theatres, it was built as a chapel. While it is not as opulent as the Theatre Royal, The Playhouse still has some charm and hosts many plays throughout the year. Be sure to check out its website for what's on. 

Wineries

It's nearly harvest time

The Greater Hobart region is part of the Southern Wine Route in Tasmania. Owing to the cool climate this region is known for producing a superb range of cool-climate wines including cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, gewurztraminer, pinot gris, pinot noir, riesling and sauvignon blanc. Hobart's primary wine growing region, Coal River Valley, lies just east of the Derwent River around Cambridge and Richmond. There are also other wineries around Hobart, including north around the Derwent Valley and west around the Huon Trail. Be sure to check out Wine Tasmania, which has further information on Tasmania's wine regions.

  • 13 Charles Reuben Estate, 777 Middle Tea Tree Road, Tea Tree 7017, ☏ +61 3 6268 1702. W-Su. The range of wines by winemaker Tim Krushka includes pinot noir, chardonnay, a Bordeaux-blend red and a sauvignon blanc semillon. 
  • 14 Coal Valley Vineyard, 257 Richmond Road, Cambridge 7170, ☏ +61 3 6248 5367. Th-Su from 10AM - 4PM. Coal Valley's range includes riesling, chardonnay, pinot noir, tempranillo and a cabernet merlot blend. 
  • 15 Moorilla, 655 Main Rd, Berriedale 7011, ☏ +61 3 6277 9900. Open Daily. Conor van der Reest is Moorilla's winemaker. Moorilla's range includes sparking, riesling, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and pinot noir. 
  • 16 Stefano Lubiana Wines, 60 Rowbottoms Rd, Granton TAS 7030, ☏ +61 3 6263 6457. 11-4pm Wed-Sun. Established in 1990, the family-owned winery includes a renovated restaurant with a Mediterranean feel. 

Wine tours

Due to the distances and lack of public transport to many of the wineries, the best way of visiting them is by car. There are also places that organised tours, usually on weekends, such as Boutique Wine Tours.

Buy

Malls

  • 1 Cat and Fiddle Arcade, 49-51 Murray St, ☏ +61 3 6231 2088. M-Sa 9AM-5:30PM, Su 10AM-4PM. A renovated shopping mall that has fast become a premier shopping destination in Hobart, with many national Australian retailers now calling the Cat and Fiddle home. The mall has long been famous for an animated clock within the food court that acts out The Cat and the Fiddle nursery rhyme on the hour. 
  • 2 Elisabeth Mall, Elisabeth St. A pedestrianised street in the heart of Hobart's CBD that has become one of the main shopping strips of the city. There are also several connecting laneways and arcades that lead to other shopping venues, so don't be afraid to deviate from the main street. 
  • 3 Myer, 55 Murray St, ☏ +61 3 6213 6100. M-Th 9AM-6PM, F 9AM-7PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM. A standalone of Australia's largest department store chain selling homewares, bedding, electronics, cosmetics, fashion, accessories, etc. On the fashion front at Myer they stock many popular Australian and International designer labels in addition to their own range of private brands. 

Markets

The bustling Salamanca Markets
  • 4 Brunacci Avalon Market, 52 Melville St. Sa 9AM-3PM, Su 8AM-2PM. A fairly new Hobart market, located within the heritage listed Avalon Theatre. Stalls sell items such as Art, Books, clothing, crafts, games, food and wine. This is a great market to go to particularly if you wish to get away from the weather. 
  • 5 Farm Gate Market, Cnr of Melville St & Elizabeth St. Su 9AM-1PM. This outdoor market is brimming with fresh seasonal produce, dairy products, wine and other food items from around Tasmania. If you consider yourself a foodie then this is a must when visiting Hobart. 
  • 6 Salamanca Market, Salamanca Pl. Sa 8:30AM-3PM. A major Saturday morning attraction for locals and visitors. Situated in front of large sandstone warehouses which have been converted into a maze of craftsmen's workshops, giftshops, restaurants and other 'artsy-crafty' shops. Market stalls are one of the cheapest places to buy Tasmanian timber products. 

Bookstores

  • 7 Fullers Bookshop, 131 Collins St, ☏ +61 3 6234 3800. M-F 9AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-4PM. Established in 1920, Fullers is a popular independent bookstore that is still running strong. Along with all the expected book genres there is also an excellent section on Tasmanian books. After you have made your purchase you can sit in the cafe area to read your book while having something to eat or drink. 
  • 8 Hobart Bookshop, 22 Salamanca Sq, ☏ +61 3 6223 1803. M-F 9AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-5PM. A small but cosy feeling bookstore that is nearly overflowing with a whole range of books to choose from. They have a huge range of educational books and also have a Tasmanian book section. For any book purchases they offer complimentary gift-wrapping. 
  • 9 State Cinema Bookstore, 373 Elizabeth St, ☏ +61 3 6234 6318. Su-Th 10AM-6:30PM, F Sa 10AM-9PM. Adjacent to the State Cinema (hence the name), this bookshop specialises in non-fiction, travel, art, fashion, architecture along with a range of fiction titles. They also have a great range of stationery items. 

Providores

Sure you could head on over to one of the national supermarket chains, Coles and Woolworths, but why do that when Hobart is brimming with plenty of unique providores, delis and specialty food stores for you to sample some of Tasmania's finest food and produce.

  • 10 Truckle & co., 141 Bathurst St, ☏ +61 3 6234 9978. M-F 8AM-6PM, Sa 8AM-4PM. For all things Italian Truckle & co. is a one-stop shop. There is an impressive array of cheeses for you to sample and purchase along with a whole range of smallgoods, pastas, oils, truffles, etc. 
  • 11 Spice World, Shop 10, Bank Arcade, 2-10 Liverpool St, ☏ +61 3 6231 6270. M-F 8:30AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-4PM. If you love herbs and spices this is the place to go. With over 300 types of herbs, spices and curry mixes there is bound to be something you want. They also sell other cooking staples such as flours, nuts, pulses, rices and essences. 
  • 12 Wursthaus Kitchen, 1 Montpelier Retreat, ☏ +61 3 6224 0644. M-F 8AM-6PM, Sa 8AM-5PM, Su 9AM-5PM. One of Hobart's famous establishments that specialises in all things food and wine. This gourmet food shop sells a whole range of items including deli goods, sausages (or wurst for those who speak German), wines, cheeses, pre-prepared meals, breads and plenty more. They also hold cooking classes and can arrange hampers and catering orders. 
  • 13 The Italian Pantry, 27-29 Federal Street, North Hobart, ☏ +61 3 62312788. This family-run business has been providing Tasmania with the best provincial Italian food, regional wines and beers along with aperitif spirits since 2006. The business has grown and flourished and developed in-house pasta manufacturing, restaurant and cooking school. 

Eat

Tasmanian salmon on a pea and corn fritter

Hobart has a profusion of eating establishments ranging from the cheap to the luxuriously expensive. Freshly caught seafood is a specialty of the region, and there are several excellent seafood restaurants. Deep-sea Trevalla is unique to Tasmania and must be tried. Tasmanian lobster is also excellent. Scallop pie is also unique to Tasmania and can be easily purchased from the Salamanca Market food stalls. Restaurants are concentrated in the Salamanca and North Hobart areas.

Budget

  • 1 Jackman & McRoss, 57 Hampden Rd, ☏ +61 3 6223 3186. 7AM-5PM. A Hobart institution with fantastic bakery treats - a must visit when in town. Walk in and take one look at the counter display and you'll see why. Eat-in is table service with a different price list. Short walk from Salamanca Place - head up the stairs by the gallery, keep walking along the road and it's just on the right. You can't miss it, there will be lots of cars parked nearby. 
  • 2 Machine Laundry Cafe, 12 Salamanca Sq, ☏ +61 3 6224 9922, fax: +61 3 6224 7967. M-Sa 7:30AM-5PM, Su 8:30AM-5PM. This cafe (which also houses a laundromat, hence the name) is a good place for a filling breakfast of $8-$15. Eggs benedict and banana and ricotta pancakes are recommended. 
  • 3 Tricycle Cafe, 77 Salamanca Place (tucked in next to the Peacock Theatre). Outdoor dining on the Path with excellent coffee and outstanding muffins. Artisan sourdough, Tasmanian vintage cheeses with a cool vibe. Baked eggs with yoghurt and chutney are a surprising combination that works. 
  • 4 Villino Espresso, 30 Criterion St, ☏ +61 3 6231 0890. M-F 8AM-4:30PM, Sa 9AM-3PM. Small cafe in the CBD of Hobart. Good coffee made well and consistently. 

Mid-range

Many of the establishments listed in the Drink section below also serve food.

  • 5 Mures Fish Centre, Victoria Dock, ☏ +61 3 6231 1999 (upper deck), +61 3 6231 2121 (lower deck), fax: +61 3 6234 4464. Mures has two sections: the upper deck is a stylish seafood restaurant (mains $20-30); the lower deck is a cafeteria style bistro (mains approx $10) and served mainly deep fried fish and the like. Reservations are usually required for the upper deck. Coffee and ice-cream is also available in a casual environment on the lower deck. 

Splurge

  • 6 The Drunken Admiral, 19 Old Wharf, Hobart Town, ☏ +61 3 6234 1903, fax: +61 3 6231 1259. Dinner daily from 6PM. Wonderful restaurant close to Mures. The seafood platter is highly recommended. It is important to make a reservation as this is a popular restaurant. Mains $21.90-31.90. 
  • 7 Ball and Chain, 87 Salamanca Pl. Long established and very popular steakhouse. (updated Aug 2016)

Drink

Cascade Brewery, the oldest in Australia

Bars

  • 1 Bar Celona, 45 Salamanca Pl, ☏ +61 3 6224 7557, fax: +61 3 6224 7388. Bar Celona is a combined wine bar and cafe. The decor is open and wood paneled: while it can get a bit noisy, it's a good place to escape some of the much more crowded bars on a busy weekend night, especially if you want to have a nice glass or two of wine. 
  • 2 The Lower House, 9 Murray St. The mildly witty name of this lounge bar across the road from parliament is a decent metaphor for the atmosphere. Colloquially known as 'lower' it is a pre-drinking venue of choice for a mostly young crowd. There is seating inside, as well as a reasonably large outside area. They do food, but it does get very crowded after about 10PM. Directly across the lane from Mobius. 
  • 3 Mobius Lounge Bar, 7 Despard St. Depending on who you ask, Mobius will be described as either the seediest or the best club in Hobart. The grumpy bouncers and reasonably seedy atmosphere though, can't detract from the fact that the DJs are clearly some of the best in Hobart and the dancefloor is regularly full. (updated Aug 2016)
  • 4 The Lark Distillery, 14 Davey St (Next to the Tourist Information Centre), ☏ +61 3 6231 9088, . 10AM-till evening. The Lark Distillery is the first licensed distillery in Tasmania since 1839 and now operates as a bar, store and distillery in one. It produces fine single malt whiskey and other liqueurs. It provides free tastings of liqueurs and spirits and charges a small fee to taste their 3 types of whiskeys ($2 each tasting or $5 for all 3). Their bush liqueur also has a distinctive taste through the use of pepperberries. There are several live music performances a week. Entry is always free and students receive a 10% discount on drinks. 
  • 5 Cargo Bar Lounge, 47-51 Salamanca Pl, ☏ +61 3 6223 7788. Modern feel with a mix of outdoor seating on the street, or a quieter secluded booth style seating at the back of the bar. Drinks are the usual fare; a selection of beers on tap, a good choice of wines and most spirits. 
  • 6 Flamingo's Dance Bar, 201 Liverpool St, ☏ +61 3 6294 6173. Hobart's only gay bar. This place is small and intimate and it goes off on Friday and Saturday night, especially during the summer months. They also put on a pretty wild New Year's Eve party. 

Pubs

  • 7 The New Sydney Hotel, 87 Bathurst St. One of the most popular inner-city pubs, the cosy New Sydney is home to Hobart's Irish community and offers an Irish pub atmosphere rather more authentic than that of an Irish theme pub (see Irish Murphy's, below). Large range of imported and local beers on tap. 
  • 8 Republic Bar & Cafe, 299 Elizabeth St North Hobart, ☏ +61 3 6234 6954. In its day, the former Empire Hotel was one of Hobart's roughest pubs, hosting a shoot-out during the 1980s. Australian cricketer Max Walker grew up in the Empire, which was run by his parents. After a re-modelling and re-branding as the Republic Bar in the mid-1990s, it has become one of the State's most popular pubs. Today the Republic Bar is Tasmania's premier music venue, with live music 7 days. It hosts an award winning restaurant, art gallery and a large covered beer garden that is good all year round. 
  • 9 The Shipwright's Arms, 29 Trumpeter St, ☏ +61 3 62235551. It's in Battery Point, one of Australia's oldest suburbs, the Arms opened in 1842. Cosy fires and Chesterfields is the atmosphere here and the nautical theme attracts participants in the Sydney-Hobart yacht race around the new year. A popular local pub, slightly off the tourist trail, the beer garden is an attractive place for a meal on summer evenings. 
  • 10 Irish Murphy's, 21 Salamanca Pl, ☏ +61 3 6223 1119, fax: +61 3 6223 1133, . Irish Murphy's is a busy Irish pub on one of the prime nightlife strips. It has a young crowd dancing to pop hits from their childhood in a fake Irish franchise pub. The meals are quite good, and there's a fantastic view over the old warehouses at Salamanca. 

Sleep

Night view of Hobart

Budget

  • 1 Alexandra on Battery, 3 Sonning Crescent, Sandy Bay, ☏ +61 3 6225 2574, fax: +61 3 6225 3522. $80-90 per night. 
  • 2 Brunswick Hotel, 67 Liverpool St, ☏ +61 3 6234 4981. Check-out: 10:30AM. Great location a half block from the pedestrian mall on Elizabeth Street. Dorm rooms start at $23. Private en suite rooms start at $65. Big covered outdoor area in the back. Very nice bar and restaurant out front. $23 and up. 
  • 3 Dr Syntax Hotel, 139 Sandy Bay Rd, ☏ +61 3 6223 6258, fax: +61 3 6224 0132, . Sandy Bay. Pub-style accommodation. $45-70. 
  • 4 Hobart Central YHA, 9 Argyle St, . Hobart Central YHA is the most centrally located backpacker accommodation in Hobart, only a block from the city's waterfront. No parking. (updated Apr 2016)

Mid-range

Splurge

  • 14 The Henry Jones Art Hotel, 25 Hunter St, . Winner of a national award for luxury small hotels. 
  • 15 The Islington, 321 Davey St, ☏ +61 3-6220-2123. An amazing converted mansion built in 1874. Rooms are fantastic with a view of Mt Wellington and a garden. Public spaces inside the hotel have open fires, original art work and antique furniture. Service is excellent. Room rates can be negotiated, but don't expect cheap (from $400/night). 
  • 16 Lenna, 20 Runnymede St, ☏ +61 3 6232 3900, toll-free: 1800 030 633, . Battery Point. One of Hobart's most stylish boutique hotels. The rooms are very comfortable and well furnished with great views out on Battery Point and the waterfront. 

Connect

The Service Tasmania & Parks and Wildlife office on Macquarie St. has free internet. Hadleys Hotel foyer and Wrest Point Casino have free WiFi hotspot and excellent public bar for sheltering from the cold in comfort. There are numerous internet 'cafes' in the city centre. Many coffee shops offer free wireless internet with a purchase.

Go next

Hobart is a good base for exploring Southern Tasmania and a great starting point if you plan to explore the rest of Tasmania. Many nearby destinations are close enough to allow for a day trip from Hobart or even a few days away if you wish.

Casey station from the air
  • Bruny Island — Actually two islands connected by a narrow isthmus. Bruny has much to explore from its amazing food and produce to spectacular scenery and lookouts. If you are lucky and hang around until dusk you may spot Little Penguins as they plod from the ocean to their nests at the isthmus.
  • Freycinet National Park — On the east coast and home to the famous Wineglass Bay, previously voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world. The rugged natural beauty of Freycinet is spectacular and there are various scenic drives or walks you can take to soak it all up.
  • Huon Trail — An expansive region to the south-west of Hobart, incorporating the D'Entrecasteaux Channel and Huon Valley. Huonville is one of the main towns in this area although there is plenty more to explore in this region. If you continue far south you will reach Cockle Creek, the southernmost point you can drive to in Australia. It's best to take a car to explore the Huon.
  • Mt Field National Park — A small, yet impressive National Park just over an Hour north-west of Hobart. The park is home to Russell Falls, one of Tasmania's finest waterfalls, and in winter you can ski down the slopes at Mt Mawson. Stop off at New Norfolk along the way to explore the charm of this small town.
  • Port Arthur — A former convict settlement on the Tasman Peninsula that is steeped in history. A popular day trip from Hobart, there is much to explore on the whole peninsula including Tasman National Park, which is brimming with spectacular views and natural rock formations.
  • Richmond — A quaint little town less than 30 minutes north-east from Hobart. The town is home to the oldest bridge in Australia and Australia's oldest intact prison. On the way you can eat and drink your way to Richmond by visiting some of the wineries dotted along the road.
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