tasmania family road trip

• Blue Mountains
• Central Coast
• Central West & Orange
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A regular dose of adventure inspiration, trip ideas, latest events and giveaways.

A family friendly road trip around tasmania 2024.

Sarah Tayler

Sarah is a British travel writer living on the Tweed Coast with her husband and tiny humans. As well as a slightly unhealthy obsession with gardening, Sarah loves exploring with her family—teaching the next generation of adventurers to love the outdoors and figuring out how to pack the innumerable snacks they require.

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Amy Fairall

As the Editor, if you read WAE, you've more than likely read something Amy's written. Amy lives on Larrakia land in the NT and is frequently on the hunt for new bodies of freshwater to dunk herself into. She has a preference for adventures slightly off the beaten track, with a penchant for multi-day hikes and a new found love of paddling.

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Overseas vacays are still off limits, but this island state is open for business and packs a lot of adventure into its compact shores. Tasmania is perfect for family holidays, with short driving distances and a whole lot of outdoors to explore.  

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which this adventure takes place who have occupied and cared for this land for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

• Best Tasmania Road Trips
• Things To Do in North West Tasmania
• Best Waterfalls in Tasmania You Need To Visit
• Best Camping Friendly Beaches in Tasmania
• Best Multi-Day Hikes in Tasmania
• Short, kid-friendly hikes and bike rides with stunning scenery
• Outdoor foodie experiences which roll learning, eating, and playing into an afternoon of fun
• Plenty of stops on each leg of the road trip to minimise car time and maximise adventuring

Jump to Section

People often think of adventures in Tasmania being hardcore multi-day hikes, extremely remote bush camping , and not much in between. But they’d be wrong. A Tasmanian road trip makes an ideal family getaway and is a great opportunity to nurture your kids’ love of all things outdoors. From wild swimming to hiking and cycling, children of all ages will be able to get stuck into this adventure.

Not in Tas? Check out: 

• 7 Best Road Trips in Victoria
• Top 10 Road Trips in Queensland
• New England High Country’s Best Road Trips

Tips For Travelling Tasmania With Kids

The first thing to think about when planning a family holiday is food. Tired, hungry kids make terrible travelling companions. Whether you’re planning a hike, a beach day or driving between activities, pack lots of food and drinks.

There’s no shortage of amazing food to try in Tassie, so as well as piquing kids’ interest in the great outdoors, it’s the perfect opportunity to get them to try new foods as well.

Keep an eye out for ‘hedge veg’ stalls in peoples gardens and on the side of the road – as well as being an excellent eye-spy clue, they’re a great place to pick up home-grown fruit and veggies.

Day 1 – 3: Cradle Mountain

Distance: 133km Time Driving: 2hr 20min

After being kicked off the Spirit of Tasmania ferry bright and early, head to House of Anvers for breakfast, a play in the gardens, and to watch chocolate being made. Open from 7am and less than ten minutes from the ferry.

The drive to Cradle Mountain is 2 hours 20 minutes from here, but can be broken up by a tour of the Mole Creek Caves (book ahead) to see the glow worms.

The Cradle Mountain campsite is a great spot within walking distance of the Visitors Centre and buses. There’s a lot of wildlife about and you might be lucky enough to see an echidna or wombat wandering through your camp. Enjoy the warm log fires in the camp kitchen on chilly nights and cook up some pizzas on the gas-fired pizza ovens.

Bushwalking at Cradle Mountain is perfect for families because there are so many options. Choose anything from the 1km Enchanted Walk Circuit , to the 10km Cradle Valley Boardwalk which winds its way back to the Ranger Station/Interpretation Centre from Dove Lake.

This is a great walk to test out how far the family is happy to walk as you catch the bus to Dove Lake and walk back, but with three bus stops dotted along the route, you can hop on if it’s time to call it a day.

Not only are these walks packed full of waterfalls, streams, interesting trees, and the odd wombat or two, they also mostly finish at the Cradle Mountain Lodge , where mulled wine and a bowl of hot chips are ready to greet you.

To access the walks either walk to the Visitors Centre from the campsite or drive to the Ranger Station/Cradle Mountain Lodge and get the bus from there (you’ll need a bus ticket from the Visitors Centre, which is free with your Parks Pass ). There’s also a pram-friendly/wheelchair-friendly walk which leaves from the Ranger Station.

Day 4 – 6: Queenstown

Distance: 203km Time Driving: 3hr 25min

The drive to Queenstown is 3.5 hours but can be broken up by stopping to explore Tasmazia – a collection of outdoor mazes and model villages 1 hour and 40 minutes from Cradle Mountain.

Queenstown itself has a historic pub, a good playground, and several short walks to get stuck into.

The boardwalk to Horsetail Falls (1km return) is slightly uphill but very manageable for tiny legs (not pram-friendly due to steps). The main event has to be the historic railway, train station, and fully-functioning steam train. A day trip on the train is a must. Not only is it a nice change from the car, but the short kid-friendly bushwalks and gold panning are only accessible from the train (not suitable for prams).

If you have older kids there’s also the option to go white water rafting on the King River and catch the train back to town, which is a great combo.

Nearby Accommodation

Cradle Mountain Holiday & Caravan Park – Discovery Parks

Pine Edge Heights – Tiny Away

Day 7 – 8: mount field national park.

Distance: 209km Time Driving: 3hr

Total drive time from Queenstown to Mount Field National Park is three hours but there’s plenty to see and do along the way. Approximately 30 minutes into the drive, Nelson Falls is well worth the easy 1.4km walk through the forest and might be one of the most spectacular falls in Tasmania.

Drive a little further and stop for lunch at Derwent Bridge. There are a few options here depending on the age of your kids. The Wall is a 100 metre long wooden carving with a restaurant and is great if you have older children who can enjoy it and keep their hands to themselves.

The Hungry Wombat is a great family-friendly spot for younger children who insist on licking everything. After lunch, hop in the car for the two hour journey to Mount Field National Park.

From the campsite , you can walk to the Mount Field Visitors Centre which is the start of the pram-and-toddler-friendly 1.4km (return) walk to Russell Falls . If you want to walk further, carry on along the Three Falls Circuit which is 6km return from the Visitors Centre.

Day 9 – 10: Hobart

Distance: 88.4km Time Driving: 1.5hr

Drive 1.5 hours down the mountain to Hobart . Here you can look around the replica arctic huts and explore the harbourside fish and chips options before hiring a bike from Hobart Bike Hire (electric bikes, baby seats, and tagalongs available).

There are plenty of route options depending on if you want a relaxing waterfront ride or an exerting hill climb. After your ride, drive 30 minutes south to Huonville to set up camp at Huon Valley Caravan Park . A huge open grassy campsite with creek swimming, foam parties for the kids, a farm show, and Tasmanian Devil feeding every afternoon.

Just up the road, Willie Smith’s Apple Shed is a great restaurant for lunch with the kids as there’s a grassy area in the middle where they can play. Just next door at Something From the Ground you can spend the afternoon picking blueberries straight from the bush.

Day 11 – 12: Maria Island

Distance: 162km Time Driving: 2hr 15min

Today it’s time to hit the beach. Just an hour from Huonville, Clifton Beach is patrolled and has great surfing waves for beginners. Board hire and surf lessons are available.

After ripping it up on your foamy, jump in the car for the 1 hour 20 minute drive to Triabunna, and hop on the ferry before setting up for the night on Maria Island.

The ferry and the island are pram and bike friendly, and there are carts to put your camp gear in when you arrive so you can tow it to a nice shady spot under the trees. The wildlife runs rampant on the island and there are great views out over the ocean.

Take the easy, fairly flat, and pram friendly 4.3km return walk to the Painted Cliffs which have a lovely beach, perfect for a swim.

Day 13 – 14: Tamar Valley

Distance: 224km Time Driving: 2hr 40min

Back on the mainland, it’s a 2 hour 20 minute drive from Triabunna to Launceston, with a stop at Bark Mill Bakery playground to break up the drive. Once in Launceston, hit up the museum if the weather is bad, or the Cataract Gorge if it’s not.

The gorge has an outdoor pool, a playground, and a cable car over the gorge, which you can catch to take the short walk back across the bridge. Set up at Old Mac’s Farm Stay and walk up the hill to meet the animals.

On your final day before catching the overnight Spirit of Tasmania back to Melbourne there’s still lots of time to explore. Head to Hillwood Berries for fruit picking and lunch, then to Goaty Hill Wines to explore the huge grounds – perfect for running off some energy.

One last stop at the Mersey Bluff in Devonport which has an excellent playground and a short walk up to the lighthouse where you can watch the ferry coming in before saying bye for now, to your Tassie adventure.

Need more Tasmanian bushwalking inspo? Check out this seven-day itinerary , perfect for families wanting to do 2-10kms per day.

How To Get There

Travelling with kids is famously synonymous with packing everything you own, to go anywhere, ever. So although flights are available from mainland Australia, taking the Spirit of Tasmania ferry might be more practical. A night sailing with a cabin is your best bet to start the holiday off on the right foot, arriving well-rested and ready for adventure.

Essential Gear

• A Tasmanian Parks pass
• As many snacks as you can carry
• Baby carrier – some walks are suitable for sturdy prams, but if you want to access walks with steps or rocky surfaces a baby carrier or baby backpack might be a good investment for younger kids (even if they can walk these are great for naps or if they get tired)
• Patience – teaching your kids to love bushwalking might mean slowing down and cutting back the kilometres until they get into it
• Spare clothes – it’s all good fun until someone falls in the creek. Spare clothes are a must when adventuring! Plus, the weather can change quickly in Tasmania, especially in the mountains and the West Coast, so pack layers

Read more: Remember to leave no trace !

Distance / Days

1,062 km driven / 14 days

MORE EXPERIENCES

All Destinations , Australasia , Australia , Overland Itineraries , Plan Your Trip

The best road trip in tasmania itinerary (2024 guide).

Are you looking for the ultimate road trip Tasmania itinerary?

The small Australian island is jam-packed full of enchanting waterfalls, mountains screaming out to be climbed and many of Australia’s best trails to explore.

You’ll probably feel a bit overwhelmed at all of the things to do in Tasmania at first; which is where this Tasmania road trip itinerary comes in!

This ultimate Tasmania itinerary accounts for the very best national parks, mountains, lakes and culture in the Australian state.

Whether you’re on a backpacking trip around Australia or visiting Tasmania with your family, there’s plenty for all sorts to enjoy in the Australian state.

How to prepare for this Tasmania road trip itinerary

This Tasmania itinerary begins in Devonport and loops around in a circle; this is presum ing you’ll be taking the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne with your own vehicle.

If you have your own car already, this is the most cost-effective option, despite the high ferry cost!

If you don’t have a car, fear not, lots of companies in Hobart offer great rental deals.

If you’re planning on flying into Tasmania , just begin this Tasmania itinerary in Hobart and follow the loop around from there!

This itinerary covers three weeks in Tasmania, but there aren’t many days off!

If you want to explore at a more leisurely pace, I’d recommend four weeks in Tasmania.

If you have less time, there are shorter itinerary options at the end.

These obviously do not cover Tasmania in as much detail, but they focus on smaller areas which enable you to see as much as possible in a shorter time.

Are you ready for the ultimate road trip in Tasmania itinerary?

Let’s go! First things first, book your overnight ferry from Melbourne to Devonport. We pick up this itinerary in Devonport the next day!

Suggested time – half a day

Arrive in Devonport bright and early!

There isn’t a huge amount to do in Devonport apart from some pretty beaches and a few cafes.

If you’re feeling energised and ready to take on Tasmania after some caffeine, move straight to stop 2…

Known as ‘ The Platypus Capital of the World ’, Latrobe is a popular place to spot the rare mammal.

Take part in a platypus tour, where you will be taken to the best spots to spot the animal, or just try and spot one in the wild yourself!

Spend a night between Latrobe and Sheffield.

Either find a camp spot using WikiCamps or search for hotels in Latrobe or Sheffield by clicking here .

Sheffield is a distinctly unique little town.

In a quaint  community spirit unlike anywhere else, the town is adorned with murals depicting its history.

Find out the story of all of the village’s local characters by going through its street art .

There are also quirky cafes aplenty and a really interesting antique shop to browse.

Liffey Falls

Your first nature stop on your Tasmania road trip itinerary!

Liffey Falls are gorgeous waterfalls up a gravel road.

A short walk from the car park to the falls ensures that they are very secluded , and the roaring water makes for a perfect picnic backdrop!

Also on site is a ‘big tree’ – spoiler – it’s huge.

Stay the night in Bridport, or at a campsite between Liffey Falls and Mount William. Check out hotels in Bridport by clicking here . 

You could also check out Launceston, the perfect place for a weekend away , en route.

If you’re after a day or two of relaxing and unwinding, this city is ideal for you!

Mount William

Drive Eastwards towards Mount William in the North Eastern corner of Tasmania.

Mount William is an easy 45-minute hike (one way) to a summit that offers amazing views of bushland and coastline.

And if you’re lucky, you might catch one of these cuties in the car park…

Bay of Fires

Suggested time – 1.5 days

Head South from Mount William to the Bay of Fires .

Named in this way because Western settlers saw fire coming from the beaches as they approached, the area is known for gorgeous sandy coves and azure waters.

Binalong Bay was my favourite little town in the area, with amazing tropical-feeling beaches and a small town community.

Things to do in the Bay of Fires

• Eddystone Point Lighthouse – this 37-meter high-lighthouse has saved many ships over its 130-year history. It offers scenic views and interesting architecture.
• Walk along the white sand beaches and swim in the clear waters
• The Gardens Conservation Area – a 20 km self-drive will take you past some of the areas most scenic spots of coastline
• See the Red Rocks – even though they look fiery, they’re not actually how the region got its name (it did so from Aboriginal people lighting fires along the coast). But the red rocks have become symbolic of the area and are a must-visit in the Bay of Fires.
• Halls Falls – Located 45 minutes west of Binalong Bay, Halls Falls is an easy but secluded hike through Eucalyptus trees.
• Grants Lagoon – This is situated just behind Binalong Bay and is somewhat sheltered from the elements – the lagoon water is often a few degrees warmer than the actual sea water.

Find a campsite on WikiCamps, or if you prefer solid walls, check out the best hotels in Binalong Bay by clicking here .

Freycinet National Park

Suggested time – 1-2 days

One of the islands’ most iconic photographs is that of Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park and it will be a highlight of your 3 weeks in Tasmania.

It’s a beautiful beach scene that looks – quite literally – like a wine glass, with beautiful blue seas on each shore.

Things to do in Freycinet National Park

• Mount Amos – This mountain offers a panoramic view of the surroundings and the bay itself. You can also hike to the beach of Wineglass Bay, where you can enjoy a dip in the cool waters as a reward!
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse – This is a 20-minute walk, and offers panoramic vistas of the national park at the end
• Honeymoon Bay Beach – it’s every bit as picturesque as it sounds, Honeymoon Bay Beach is perfectly tranquil and absolutely stunning
• Sleepy Bay – This fantastically named bay is a short 10-minute walk, taking you past some spectacular lookout points. Head down to the very end to see a beautiful view over the bay.
• The Hazards – viewable from outside the park, The Hazards are four granite mountains that change colour during sunrise and sunset – they’re every photographer’s dream.

Stay the night in a campsite near Freycinet National Park or in one of the hotels – click here to view them .

Tasman Peninsula

Suggested time – 1-3 days

Onwards to the Tasman Peninsula!

There are three capes you can traverse here. If you’re an avid hiker and have the time, you could do them all – if not, select the best one for you by using the details below.

Walks on the Tasman Peninsula

• Cape Pillar Hike – this two day long hike is very long – 30 kms in total, and the first day 22 kms must be covered as the only place to camp (unless you are with a tour) is 8 kms from the start/ finish point. The views at the end are spectacular – you’re right on the edge of the cape and can see for miles. However, if you don’t like long hikes, this may not be for you.
• Cape Raoul  – this 14 kilometre hike takes you through dense jungle and eventually peters out to oceanic views and sheer cliff. Great for those who like day hikes and speedy hikers, the edge of Cape Raoul will give you views to Hobart, Bruny Island and other spots of the Tasman Peninsula.
• Cape Hauy  – starting from Fortescue Bay, this 8 kilometre hike is ideal for those who like spectacular views without huge distances. With gorgeous ocean and land views from the start, this cape walk is a beautiful way to see the dramatic coastline of the Tasman Peninsula.

Other things to do on the Tasman Peninsula

• The Eaglehawk Tessellated Pavement – the sheer power of the sea has caused this rock surface to be eroded to form a resemblance to a mosaic – it’s a really unique natural attraction!
• The Tasman Arch – this arch is another wonderful natural phenomenon that’s well worth checking out
• The Tasman Blow Hole – At high tide, this blow hole can create a huge gush of water; don’t stand too close!

There are plenty of free and paid-for campsites around the Tasman Peninsula or hotels in the area. Click here to browse .

Port Arthur

Suggested time – 1 day

Located within the village of Port Arthur is one of Australia’s most significant historic sites. It tells the story of the convict settlers of the area and was also the site of the worst mass murder in Australian history. It’s an area steeped in history that’s vital for understanding  Australia’s convict past.

Things to do in Port Arthur

• The historical sites tell the story of Port Arthur as a convict site. Be sure to go on a historical tour with the informative guides.
• Port Arthur ghost tours tell some of the haunting tales of spooky happenings in the jail.
• The Totem Pole and Candlestick Walk is an 8.8-kilometre bush walk with the opportunity to climb up rock formations at the end.
• Check out the Maingon Bay lookout, which is one of the best oceanic views on the peninsula.
• If you’re visiting in November, December or January, check out the Port Arthur Lavender Farm for some amazing smells and great photo opportunities!

You’ll be able to stay in the same place as you did the night before or head to Hobart when you finish your day out and stay in a hotel or campsite there.

Suggested time – 2-4 days

It’s time to touch down in Tasmania’s capital!

Hobart is a hidden gem, a wonderful city bursting with culture and holding immense beauty. It’s an essential to visit, even if you only have 1 week in Tasmania.

The Best Things to do in Hobart

• The Docklands – on a sunny day these look wonderfully idyllic and inviting, with colourful boats and ramshackle coffee shops lining the edge.
• The Tasmania National Museum and Art Gallery  – this free entry museum contains a few interesting exhibitions – including a really informative one about bushfires – and a section about Aboriginal Tasmania which is well worth a look.
• MONA  – this museum may be what makes Hobart famous, and although it’s kind of pricey to get in, it’s a museum unlike no other, challenging you to really think about life and the world through art.
• Salamanca Place  – this charming area of Hobart is home to Georgian architecture housing galleries, restaurants and boutiques – perfect for an afternoon’s exploration. On Saturday mornings (8:30am- 3pm) the Salamanca Markets are hosted here, which sell local produce and hand made gifts.
• Derwent River Cruise  – this historic cruise will tell the tale of the city of Hobart and how it came to be.

Mount Wellington

You can’t visit Hobart without catching a sunset or sunrise at Mount Wellington.

One of my favourite bits of travel advice ever was “if you can see the top of Mount Wellington when you get to Hobart, stop whatever you’re doing and get the hell up there”. (Thanks David, a volunteer at the Devonport tourist information centre).

It will be a highlight on your entire road trip in Australia . Drive right up to the peak and be AMAZED at the view spreading out beneath you. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’ve got a bit of time, try to catch sunrise as well!

Accommodation in Hobart

Even if you’re camping around Tasmania, Hobart is a great spot to recharge in some city-centre accommodation.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Hobart.

Budget: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse is a hostel that will change your opinion of budget accommodation. Each dorm is intricately furnished, and there is a lovely common area and BBQ to enjoy as well as balconies with mountain views. If you don’t want to stay in a dorm room you can opt for a private bunkroom or queen bedroom. On-site is free parking, free luggage storage and free WiFi. Click here for rates and book today .

Mid-Range:  Riverfront Motel & Villas is perfect for families or those wanting outdoor-based accommodation without camping. Providing a mix of motel-style and villa accommodation, it is located close to MONA. Laundry facilities, a BBQ and a restaurant and bar are on site.  Click here for rates and to book today .

Luxury:  Ibis Styles Hobart is a great luxury spot within the city. On site is a swimming pool and a fitness centre and the rooms are decorated in a state-of-the-art style. It’s in a great location to Hobart centre and Salamanca Market. Click here for rates and to book today .

Bruny Island

Suggested time 1-2 days

Next up, hop on a boat from Hobart to Bruny Island.

Bruny Island offers coastal walks, scenic views and great food and wine. There’s nothing quite like the scenery of the island, and there’s an adventure here to suit everybody.

Things to do on Bruny Island

• Head to the gorgeous beaches of the island
• Visit the Bruny Island lighthouse, the second oldest lighthouse in Australia, for an amazing sunset view
• Sample some of the amazing foods and wines of the island by touring some of the farms and shops – the Bruny Island Berry Farm is a firm favourite, and there are lots of vineyards on the island selling amazing wines.
• Take one of the many walking trails on the island

Stay a night or two on Bruny Island. There are campsites on WikiCamps or click here to look here for accommodation . 

Mount Field

This national park, perfect for practising your travel photography , excels in waterfalls and tall trees – with a 2.5-hour loop walk taking you to the best of both!

Best Spots to Visit in Mount Field National Park

• Russell Falls
• Horseshoe Falls
• Lake Dobson for a scenic, quiet swim – and for downhill skiing in winter!
• Tall Trees Walk – a 30-minute circuit starring the world’s tallest flowering plant

There are plenty of accommodation options and campsites near the national park. Click here for hotels near Mount Field .

Lake St Clair

Beautiful Lake St Clair is the deepest lake in Australia.

There are many hikes you can do from the national park, and it’s also where the overland track, a 60-kilometre odyssey through wild Tasmania finishes.

The Best Hikes in Lake St Clair National Park

• Mount Rufus is an ever-changing hike with a beautiful peak, great views and varied terrain making the walk back really interesting!
• Shadow Lake is well worth a walk around
• Of course, relaxing by the lake and enjoying some of the shorter walks is also a great way to take in Lake St Clair

There are hotels around the national park that are great for a night’s stay – click here to view them . Alternatively, you could camp near the park. 

Heading to the West Coast, Strahan is a port town known as one of the country’s most beautiful seaside towns.

It’s a somewhat sleepy place, but there are a few things to do in Strahan that make visiting the West Coast town worthwhile.

Things to do in Strahan

• Take a boat trip to Sarah Island , which was once a convict prison and has lots of history.
• Artisan shops in the town
• Huge sand dunes (perfect for boarding!) along a rugged beach
• The Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park which Strahan serves as a gateway to. This is Tasmania’s greatest wilderness and is a fantastic place to hike in.

For hotels in Strahan, click here . 

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain may be the highlight of your Tasmania road trip itinerary.

Its jagged peaks have certainly inspired many an explorer to the island, and heaps of people dream about scaling the mountain one day.

Things to do in Cradle Mountain National Park

•  If you’re a keen hiker or climber, the Cradle Mountain summit hike   should be number one on your list – it is without a doubt one of the best hikes in Tasmania . It wasn’t something I was planning on doing. But for some reason, on the day, I found myself on the top of that thing. It was the scariest experience of my life. I’m so glad I did it, but it’s really not for the faint-hearted (it was much scarier than Huashan, the supposed most dangerous mountain in China ). You have been warned!
• Marion’s Lookout Walk enables you to see Cradle Mountain and snap an iconic feature – without actually climbing up the thing. It’s a bit of a climb to reach this lookout, as you can also see some of the park from a birds-eye view.
• Dove Lake Circuit is an easy walk with a view of Cradle Mountain looming above. This is a great walk for those who don’t like hiking but do love nature.

If you’re camping, there are plenty of spots, both free and paid, around the National Park.

If you’re looking for a room, you could stay in Somerset .

Now it’s time for the North Coast!

Stanley is a gorgeous little seaside town where everything looks astonishingly perfect. It’s small and quiet, but it’s a wonderful place to explore to have a bit of contrast from all the hikes.

If you’re spending 2 weeks in Tasmania or longer, it’s a nice addition to your road trip itinerary.

Things to do in Stanley

• Climb up The Nut, an ancient volcanic crater.
• Treat yourself at one of the many ice creameries lining the quaint high street.
• If it’s warm, the beach is lovely, with calm, kind of warm waters and beautiful views. It’s one of my favourite swim spots in Australia!

Here are some more amazing things to do in Stanley .

Searching for somewhere to stay in Stanley? There are campsites near the town or check here for the best accommodation deals in Stanley itself .

 North Coast

Finish your Tasmania road trip by checking out some of the North Coast highlights. These can be encompassed in a Stanley – Devonport drive.

Best Parts of the North Coast

• The beautiful beaches of Boat Harbour Bay
• The town of Bernie
• Penguin , where if you’re lucky you might see fairy penguins darting on shore at dusk.

If you’ve got another night until your boat back to the mainland, find a campsite on WikiCamps or check out the best places to stay in Devonport .

Back to where you began! Get to Devonport in good time for your Spirit of Tasmania return to Melbourne this evening.

Shorter Tasmania Road Trip Itineraries

“This all sounds great… but I just don’t have the time!” I hear you cry.

Have no fear.

Here are some itineraries for 3 day, 5 day, 7 day, 10 day and 2 week trips to Tasmania.

You can still feel the Tassie magic, even with a shorter amount of time!

Tasmania Road Trip 3 Days

If you only have 3 days in Tasmania, you’ll have to focus on a specific area of the state. Here are my recommendations:

Option One – from Devonport or use alternative day 3 for from Hobart

• Day 1 : From Devonport, drive south to Cradle Mountain – or drive north from Hobart. Spend a day hiking in the national park.
• Day 2:  Explore Lake St Clair National Park.
• Day 3:  See Stanley and the Nut, as well as the north coast en route back to Devonport.
• Alternative Day 3:  Drive to Mount Field National Park. Spend the day exploring the park before heading back to Hobart.

Option Two – from Devonport or reverse for from Hobart

• Day 1:  Visit the Bay of Fires.
• Day 2:  Head to Freycient National Park and hike to one of the Wineglass Bay viewpoints. Then start driving south to Hobart
• Day 3:  Spend the morning looking around Hobart. Then head back to Devonport to catch the ferry.

Tasmania Road Trip 5 Days

• Day 1:  Head to Binalong Bay and the Bay of Fires. Spend the day exploring here.
• Day 2:  Spend the day in Freycient National Park
• Day 3: See the sights of Hobart
• Day 4:  Day trip to Bruny Island
• Day 5:  Visit Port Arthur
• Day 1:  Head to Cradle Mountain and spend the day in the National Park
• Day 2:  Head to Lake St Clair National Park and spend the day hiking
• Day 3:  See Hobart
• Day 4:  Visit Freycinet National Park
• Day 5:  Spend the day at the Bay of Fires

Tasmania Road Trip 7 Days

• Day 1:  Head to the Bay of Fires and spend the day exploring here
• Day 2:  Go to Freycinet National Park and see Wineglass Bay
• Day 3:  Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes OR visit Port Arthur
• Day 4: See Hobart
• Day 5:  Visit Mount Field National Park
• Day 6:  See Lake St Clair National Park
• Day 7:  Hike up Cradle Mountain!

Tasmania Road Trip 10 Days

• Day 1:  Go to the Bay of Fires
• Day 2:  Hike around Freycinet National Park
• Day 3:  Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes
• Day 4:  Visit Port Arthur
• Day 5:  See Hobart
• Day 6:  See Hobart
• Day 7:  See Mount Field National Park
• Day 8:  Head to Lake St Clair and hike up Mount Rufus
• Day 9:  Do some smaller hiking trails around Cradle Mountain National Park
• Day 10:  Hike up Cradle Mountain

2 Weeks in Tasmania

• Day 2:  Spend a day chilling around Binalong Bay
• Day 3: Hike around Freycinet National Park
• Day 4:  Spend another day in the park
• Day 5:  Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes
• Day 6:  Visit Port Arthur
• Day 7:  See Hobart
• Day 8:  See Hobart
• Day 9:  See Mount Field National Park
• Day 10:  Head to Lake St Clair and hike up Mount Rufus
• Day 11: See Strahan, go sandboarding and drive along the beach
• Day 12:  Do some smaller hiking trails around Cradle Mountain National Park
• Day 13:  Hike up Cradle Mountain
• Day 14: Head to Stanley and climb up The Nut

Have you ever been to Tasmania? What were your favourite bits if so? Is this Tasmania road trip itinerary useful? Let me know in the comments below!I hope you enjoyed this list of the best things to do in Tasmania! Please share it or follow me on Facebook ! 

2 thoughts on “ The best road trip in Tasmania itinerary (2024 guide) ”

I have great memories of Tasmania, I can’t understand why so many travellers miss it out. Sounds like you made the most of it though and saw plenty.

It’s a fantastic place it’s it! Definitely saw a lot, there’s still more to see though. I want to go back and do the Overland Track at some point 🙂

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10 Day Must Do Tasmania Family Road Trip

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Tour Overview

Day by Day Itinerary

Tasmania is a great place for a family holiday and we all know how much kids love animals, this itinerary takes a closer look at Tasmania’s native creatures in their natural habitats. Enjoy the intriguing history, natural beauty - incredible local produce is another highlight. This 10 Day tour takes you to unforgettable locations and ensures memorable encounters. Take the family fishing in Southern Tasmania, visit the wild and beautiful Cradle Mountain and the pristine Tarkine Wilderness. See fairy penguins near Freycinet other fascinating beasties at Devils at Cradle!

Family Fishing in the South  & Tasmanian Devil Park, Cradle Mountain, 4WD Tarkine Wilderness adventure, Cataract Gorge Climbing and Penguins @ Freycinet National Park.

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12 Day Family Friendly Tasmania Holiday

Make your family's next trip an active adventure in Tasmania. Each day you'll wake to an outstanding natural environment with unique wildlife and ancient forests and coastlines - this is the 'Great Outdoors'. The included activities offer kayaking on the Freycinet Peninsula, and lots of time by the sea in Bicheno, hiking at Cradle Mountain, take an air-walk amongst the treetops in Tahune and a steam train adventure on the West Coast. With plenty of time for the family to unwind and relax with convenient two night stays in each location.

Ultimate Tasmania Wildlife Family Holiday

Wildlife abounds in Tasmania - with world class experiences to observe some of these endemic species at close range. In the Tamar be astounded by the daytime activities of platypus and echnida, watch rafts of Little Blue Penguins come ashore. Enjoy being out on the water at Freycinet and the Tasman Peninsula and marvel at the abundance of gannets, albatross, sea eagles and maybe even a pod of dolphins. The Tasmanian Devils at the marvellous Unzoo will be a highlight.

14 Day Tasmania Family Adventure

This Tasmanian family holiday is the perfect chance for the family to unplug and reconnect in a landscape that is classified as a Wilderness World Heritage Area . Your family will have opportunities to engage with wildlife, wombats, devils, roos and koala at Bonorong . Hiking at Lake St Clair and Cradle Mountain , Heritage cruise on the Gordon River, kayaking at Freycinet National Park  and of course Australia's colonial heritage is on display in Launceston, Hobart and at Port Arthur.

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Australia , Oceania , Road Trips , Tasmania , Travel Itineraries · July 29, 2019

The Perfect Tasmania East Coast Road Trip Itinerary for One Week

Are you planning a road trip in Tasmania and looking for some inspiration? You’ve come to the right place! We recently spent one week in Tasmania visiting all the highlights along the beautiful east coast. We think this Tasmania self-drive itinerary is the perfect way to spend 6 days in Tasmania!

Along with my two friends, Amy and Sarah from Mooski Adventures , we set off in a trusty Mitsubishi Triton thanks to Europcar – it was the perfect car for an adventurous Tasmania road trip!

Our one week Tasmania itinerary commenced with exploring the vibrant capital city, Hobart. It took us to Australian bucket list hotspots such as the Bay of Fires and Freycinet National Park, along the popular Tasmania east coast road trip route called the “ Great Eastern Drive “. We finished up our week in the picturesque city of Launceston and wine tasting at some of the fabulous wineries in the Tamar Valley .

With its rugged wilderness, breathtaking scenery, fresh seafood, and a plethora of fabulous food and wine producers – we think Tasmania’s east coast is one of the most stunning places in Australia .

this Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary from Hobart to Launceston will take you to some of the best highlights along Tasmania’s east Coast!

Planning a holiday in Australia right now? Here are 150 Australia Bucket List experiences to tick off!

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Planning a Road Trip in Tasmania – At a Glance

Our Tasmania road trip itinerary encompasses 6 days drive from Hobart to Launceston, with an option to add an extra day trip either at the beginning or end of the itinerary. We also included information on where to stay and eat in each location!

• Day 1: Explore Hobart (Salamanca Markets & MONA)
• Day 2: Hobart to Orford (Twamley Farm & Port Arthur)
• Day 3: Orford to Bicheno (Freycinet National Park & Wineglass Bay)
• Day 4: Bicheno to St. Helens (Bay of Fires)
• Day 5: St. Helens to Launceston (food producers & wineries)
• Day 6: Explore Launceston (Cataract Gorge & Tamar Valley)
• Optional Extra Day: Hobart or Launceston

Related Post: 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia to Add to Your Bucket List

Map of our Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary: The Great Eastern Drive

6 Day Tasmania Self-Drive Itinerary from Hobart to Launceston

Day 1: explore hobart.

With an eclectic art scene, Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is well-known as the host for the annual Dark Mofo Festival. Dark Mofo is held during the winter solstice when the city is painted red, and locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate the dark through modern art expressions, music and spectacular food.

Our Tasmania Road Trip was planned to coincide with Dark Mofo. We spent the first two evenings experiencing the events and performances on offer during this epic three-week-long fiesta – and it lived up to the hype! The Winter Feast and Dark Path were a highlight for us. Also worth checking out is the Night Mass, The Burning and the Nude Solstice Swim.

Things to Do in Hobart

Salamanca Markets  – It’s worth planning your visit to Hobart on a Saturday so you can wander around the iconic Salamanca Markets – one of the most loved markets in Australia. It features over 300 artisan stalls lined along Salamanca Place with amazing local street performers every Saturday from 8:30 am to 3 pm.

MONA (The Museum of Old and New Art)  – After the markets, wander down to the waterfront and hop on the MONA ROMA . The camouflaged high-speed catamaran will take you to the museum, and the ferry ride itself is quite a show – upgrade to the Posh Pit for an ultra-luxe experience!

Be sure to allow at least 3 hours to wander around MONA . We easily could have spent all day there. The museum is set over three underground levels, and there are quite a lot of world-class interactive exhibits, such as the Mine, Siloam, and Pharos. It’s worth checking out their website and planning your visit in advance.

Afterwards, head up to the MONA rooftop, where you’ll find the excellent Moorilla Wine Bar and Cellar Door, The Source Restaurant and a beautiful green space called The Lawn, which features communal tables, bean bags, and food trucks.

Mount Wellington  – If Mount Wellington has decided to peek its head out of the clouds, then it’s worth jumping in the car and heading up there for sunset. Unfortunately, we weren’t blessed with the best weather in the evening, so we decided to kick off our Tasmania road trip itinerary with a sunrise visit instead. Due to ice on the road, we weren’t able to make it to the top, so we stopped at a viewpoint a little further down where we enjoyed spectacular sunrise views out towards Bruny Island.

Where to Stay and Eat in Hobart

The Ibis Styles in Hobart was the perfect place to start our Tasmania road trip, as it was only a short five-minute walk from the waterfront and Salamanca Markets. The upper levels offer fantastic views over Hobart city, and the city-scape lap pool was definitely a highlight. The coffee and cocktails on offer at Mr Good Guy Bar + Kitchen were also top-notch. For other good food and coffee options nearby, we loved Daci & Daci Bakers and Straight Up Coffee and Food .

Day 2: Hobart to Orford

Driving time:  approximately 2 – 3 hours, not including stops.

Stop 1: Clay Target Shooting & Lunch at Twamley Farm

Make an early start on your Tasmania road trip and set your GPS towards Twamley Farm, Buckland. Pre-book a Sunday Lunch and Shoot package for a unique experience. You’ll spend the morning at the Clay Target Shooting Range with champion shooters Glenn and Cheryl, followed by an amazing campfire-cooked lunch, featuring delicious local produce, lovingly prepared by Gert and Ted.

Twamley Farm also offers beautiful BnB-style accommodation in a converted old Barn, glamping tents or the ‘Farm Pod’. Other activities on offer also include trout fishing, farm-hand experiences, bird watching, hiking and mountain biking.

Stop 2: Port Arthur Historic Site

Continue the drive onto Port Arthur, a historic convict settlement located on the Tasman Peninsula. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic site and surrounding gardens. If you feel up for a nighttime activity, it’s worth checking out the Port Arthur Ghost Tour , a highlight filled with tales of paranormal activity and unexplained events that occurred at the penal settlement in the late 1800s.

Stop 3: Orford Town

Continue up the east coast to Orford where you’ll spend the evening. Orford is a coastal village with beautiful beaches and views over the historic Maria Island.

Where to Stay and Eat in Orford

We stayed at the Eastcoaster Tasmania in Orford and were treated to a fabulous seafood dinner at their beautiful waterfront restaurant. The food alone was reason enough to stay an extra night!

Read Next: 4 Amazing Spots to go Glamping in Tasmania

Day 3: Orford to Bicheno

Driving time:  approximately 1.5 – 2 hours, not including stops.

While there are so many beautiful bays and beaches to stop along the Great Eastern Drive between Orford and Bicheno, the highlight is undoubtedly Freycinet National Park – the jewel of Tasmania’s coastline and home to the iconic Wineglass Bay. I highly recommend making this spot a priority on any Tasmania road trip itinerary as there is so much to do there.

Freycinet National Park

Before arriving, I recommend you pre-arrange a National Park permit to save time. Depending on how long you allow, there are a few options for hikes to do in the National Park – here are our top three:

Wineglass Bay Lookout  – For an amazing view over Wineglass Bay that’s not too far from the carpark, head to the Wineglass Bay Lookout. Being the shortest route, this hike is usually much more crowded with tourists. Allow 1-hour return.

Wineglass Bay Beach  – Continue from the Lookout toward the pristine beaches of Wineglass Bay for a half-day trek option. Allow 2.5 hours return.

Mount Amos  – For an even more stunning view over Wineglass Bay and the surrounding mountain ranges, Mount Amos is not for the faint-hearted and requires a lot more experience. The hike involves a steep uphill rock scramble, scaling several large boulders and is not recommended during wet or damp conditions. Allow at least 3 – 4 hours round trip.

Other Things to Do Around Freycinet National Park

If you have some extra time and want to extend your Tasmania road trip itinerary to 7 days, I would highly recommend spending an extra day exploring Freycinet National Park to experience some of the other activities on offer:

• Take a leisurely boat cruise around the National Park to Wineglass Bay
• Check out Cape Tourville Lighthouse
• Visit Devils Corner Winery cellar door
• Stay at one of the many luxury eco-retreats around Coles Bay
• Sample the freshest cultured oysters at the Melshell Oyster Shack

Where to Stay and Eat in Bicheno

We stayed at the beautiful Cod Rock Point , situated right on the coast at Bicheno. It was a beautiful spot, and we easily could have spent longer than one night but there was still so much to do on our Tasmania road trip itinerary, so we hit the road early the next morning.

Read Next: 9 Places to Book a Couples Getaway in Tasmania

Day 4: Bicheno to St. Helens & Bay of Fires

Driving time:  approximately 1 hour, not including stops.

After fueling up at the Blue Edge Bakery in Bicheno, we set off towards St. Helens and the Bay of Fires. The Bay of Fires was once named the World’s “hottest” travel destination in 2009 by Lonely Planet and it’s not hard to see why.

St. Helens is a charming coastal fishing village and is a popular place to stay while visiting the Bay of Fires. There are plenty of things to do around St. Helens including fishing, hiking, and mountain biking.

A little further north of St. Helens is Binalong Bay, the most popular spot to explore the region’s main drawcard – the lichen-covered rocks at the Bay of Fires.

Bay of Fires Boat Tour

After 4 days of taking in the spectacular views along the Great Eastern Drive from our car rental, we wanted to switch things up and opted for an off-shore view of the famous ‘red rocks’, courtesy of Bay of Fires Eco Tours . We did the most popular Gardens Explorer Tour, which took us along the pristine coastline. We learnt all about the history of the area, how the rocks get their dark orange colour and pointing out the diverse array of sea life along the way. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale.

Walk Along the Bay of Fires Cosy Corner Beach

After the boat tour, take a leisurely walk along Cosy Corner Beach. See the Lichen-covered boulders up-close against the beautiful white-sand beaches.

Sunset at Binalong Bay

We found Binalong Bay to be the best spot to view the sunset. The evening hues paint the iconic red boulders in spectacular colour.

Pro Tip:   Head to Skeleton Bay Reserve and wander out along the rocks to find a good vantage point.

Where to Stay and Eat in St. Helens

We stayed at the beautiful Bay of Fires Apartments located on the main street of St. Helens and conveniently located around the corner from an amazing little coffee shop called Lifebuoy Café and Quail Street Emporium. Also, check out Nina Restaurant, located below the Bay of Fires Apartments.

Day 5: St. Helens to Launceston

Driving time:  approximately 2.5 hours, not including stops.

The drive between St. Helens and Launceston is dotted with many farms, artisan food producers and wineries. This was one of our favourite days during our Tasmania road trip as there was plenty of good food and wine tasting involved!

Stop 1: Pyengana Dairy

Pyengana Dairy produces award-winning artisan cheeses and dairy products. Stop off for a gourmet cheese platter overlooking the green pastures of the dairy farm.

Stop 2: St Columba Falls

Just a short 10-minute walk from the carpark, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of St Columba Falls.

Stop 3: Clover Hill Wines

Clover Hill is a premium sparkling house located around 30 minutes drive from Launceston. Their recently built modern cellar door offers breathtaking views over their beautiful vineyard. This was a great last stop for a tasting before finishing up our Tasmania road trip in Launceston for the evening. Bookings are recommended.

Where to Stay and Eat in Launceston

We stayed at The Sebel Launceston , which was conveniently located in the centre of town and only a few minutes drive from Cataract Gorge. We enjoyed dinner at the Bluestone Kitchen & Bar , which serves seriously good modern Asian-style food. It was possibly one of the best meals we had during the entire road trip!

Read Next: The Ultimate World Travel Bucket List – 150+ Places to See Before You Die

Day 6: Explore Launceston

Spend the final day of your Tasmania road trip exploring Launceston, checking the beautiful scenery and fabulous wineries in the Tamar Valley . Be sure to book an evening flight so you have a full day!

Cataract Gorge  – A natural formation located only minutes from central Launceston. Allow at least an hour to wander along the pathways around the gorge.

Drive Along the River Tamar  – After visiting the gorge, take a drive along the western side of the Tamar River towards Batman Bridge. There are many great wineries to stop at along the drive. Cross the river at Batman Bridge and head back to Launceston along the Eastern-side of the river.

Moore’s Hill Estate  – Tasmania’s first solar-powered winery that is completely off-the-grid. We stopped in at this boutique family-owned winery for a wine tasting and gourmet lunch by the fire and felt great knowing that we were virtually saving the environment while doing so. Check out these other great wineries along the Tamar Valley wine route.

Related Post: The Best Tamar Valley Wineries & Vineyards near Launceston, Tasmania

Optional Extra Day – 7 Days in Tasmania

If you want to extend this itinerary to a 7 day Tasmania itinerary, then we highly recommend either adding an extra night in Hobart at the beginning, or in Launceston at the end of your trip. Here are some suggestions for how you could spend the extra day:

Hobart Day Trips:

• Explore the fabulous food producers at Bruny Island
• Visit the Huon Valley and experience the Tahune Airwalk and the Hastings Caves.
• Hike to Russell Falls at Mount Field National Park and explore the Derwent Valley.

Launceston Day Trips:

• Visit Bridestowe Lavender Estate and the Pipers River wineries
• Go hiking around Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake
• Seek out local food producers, berry farms and breweries around Deloraine and Devonport.
• Exploring the many great wineries and cellar doors in the Tamar Valley

Feeling Inspired? Here are 10 Bucket List Places to Visit around the world this year!

Additional Tips for Your Tasmania Road Trip

Getting There  – Qantas , Virgin Australia , and Jetstar all offer daily flights to Hobart and Launceston from most major Australian cities. I recommend using Skyscan n er to compare airfares and departure times for all airlines and book the best option.

Getting Around – Tasmania was made to be explored by car! Having a car gives you the freedom to set your Tasmania road trip itinerary (or follow ours) and stop wherever you want. All the roads we took during our road trip were sealed and driving in Tasmania is very easy. Click here to check out the latest car rental deal with Europcar .

Best Time to Visit  – Any time of year. There are many things to do in Tasmania during summer, winter, spring and autumn. Be aware that summertime is the peak tourist season. Expect the major tourist sites to be a lot more crowded than in other seasons. We felt that visiting during winter was perfect as there were fewer crowds and we got to experience the Dark Mofo Festival.

Don’t forget to bring – warm clothing in winter, such as puffer jackets and beanies. Bring hiking gear if you plan to hike in Freycinet National Park.

We hope this itinerary has inspired you to plan a road trip in Tasmania. If you have any questions or recommendations of other great places to visit in Tasmania, please leave them in the comments below.

Related Tasmania articles you might like:

• 9 Incredible Places for a Couples Getaway in Tasmania
• The Best Tamar Valley Wineries & Vineyards
• The Perfect 6 Day Tasmania East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• 4 Amazing Spots to go Glamping in Tasmania
• The Ultimate Australian Bucket List
• 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia (in every state)

Disclosure: During our Tasmania Road Trip, we were hosted by  Europcar ,  Discover Tasmania , and  Accor Hotels . All opinions expressed in this post are my own. For further information, please visit the links above.

Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:

• Skyscanner  for the best flight deals
• Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
• HomeAway  for the best price on apartment and home rentals
• Rentalcars.com  for quick and easy car rentals
• Luxury Escapes  | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
• Get Your Guide  | Klook | Viator  for booking day tours and attraction tickets
• Tourradar  for a wide selection of multi-day tours
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About the Author:

Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.

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May 1, 2021 at 8:18 am

Considering Buckland is on the way to Orford, I would head to Port Arthur first. Get an early start so you can see Remarkable cave, Tasman Arch etc.

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• The Ultimate Tasmania Road Trip: 6-12 Days

by Emily Cass | Nov 6, 2023 | Australia & NZ , Most Popular | 14 comments

Sometimes it’s the destinations closest to your home that can take you by surprise. We’ve travelled long and far to some pretty incredible places around this world but we’d never taken the time to explore our own home country of Australia, let alone Tasmania.

Tasmania, with a population of only 519,000 is becoming an increasingly sought after holiday destination and after spending 10 days in this state we are starting to understand why.

The landscapes are forever changing, there’s an extensive culinary scene with locally sourced produce, world-class wineries, picturesque beaches (that are never crowded), epic mountain ranges, hikes galore, cute coastal towns, rural farm villages, amazing wildlife and a very laid back Aussie vibe.

Exploring is the key in Tasmania and it’s definitely a place you will keep coming back too!

Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary: Interactive Map

Below is the ultimate Tasmania road trip map, that would ideally be done in 10-11 days but could be done in 6 if you skip certain places.

If you have less time, we suggest choosing either north+east (Launceston) or south+east (Hobart).

Take a Guided Tour in Tasmania

Before we dive in to our self guided tour, you may want to consider an organised tour or activity. Check out these top tours from GetMyGuide.

Car Rental in Tasmania

The first thing you’ll realise when you get to Tasmania is, you’ll need a car! We rented our car directly from Hobart Airport with Bargain Car Rentals and they were far cheaper than their competitors. The service was quick, pain-free and the car was fine. For a 10-day economy car rental, we paid $560 AUD plus $150 in gas over 10 days. Aside from a regular vehicle, many people choose to travel around Tasmania in full-blown houses on wheels, caravans, campervans, motorbikes or 4WD’s. Anything goes as long as it gets you from A to B!

The BEST Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Below is our itinerary over the course of 10 days. Tasmania may be small but there’s so much to see. How long would we recommend? It depends what you’re coming for, but generally speaking, nothing less than 6 days if you want to see the main sights but even then you may find yourself rushing.

DAY 1: HOBART

You’ve arrived into Hobart, the capital of Tasmania or maybe you’ve come into Devonport via ferry (if that is the case, do this itinerary in reverse). Either way, if you’ve been to Sydney or Melbourne before you’ll be shocked to see the difference of this small Tasmanian capital. Hobart, whilst small, still has a lot to offer, especially in the restaurant department! There’s a very dynamic food scene combined with rich history, parks, shopping and preserved towns.

To start the day off right, grab a freshly baked croissant and coffee from Daci & Daci Bakery . You’ll be coming back for seconds, we assure you. Next, make your way to the famous MONA (Museum of Old & New Art), a unique interactive museum that is sure to leave an impression with some downright crazy exhibitions including an entire wall of 100+ uniquely shaped vaginas. Allow at least 2 hours. Not for the vaginas, but for the whole museum. Entry $28 AUD. Get there as it opens (10 am) as it gets very crowded.

When you’ve finished marvelling at the artworks at the MONA, carry on to  Bonorong Wildlife Park where you can get up close with wombats, Tasmanian devils and our furry friend, the koalas. Entry is $29 AUD and includes a tour (check the times). Here are some very interesting facts about these creatures. Word of warning, don’t try and pat them, they are very aggressive with their teeth.

When you’re done, spend the afternoon sampling beers at Cascade Brewery , Australia’s oldest operating brewery. Or sample whiskey at  Lark Distillery, one of Hobart’s famous whiskey bars.  Salamanca Place has a large range of restaurants to choose from for dinner for those sweet tooth lovers, Honey Badger Dessert Cafe will do the trick (or make you sick).

Set your alarm for 4:30 am… we promise it’ll be worth it.

Overnight: Hobart

Booking.com

• Budget: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse
• Midrange:  Zero Davey Boutique Apartment Hotel
• Luxury:  MACq1 Hotel

Top Tours in Hobart

If organized tours are your thing, here are some recommendations from GetMyGuide:

DAY 2: HOBART

Rise and SHINE, it’s time for sunrise over Mount Wellington.

Mount Wellington is a short 30-35 minute drive from the CBD and it offers breathing taking panoramic views of Hobart and surrounding areas. We chose to visit at sunrise and would highly recommend doing the same. The constant changing of light and colours is simply beautiful. It is at least 10 degrees colder up there, so dress appropriately! If it gets too cold there’s a pinnacle observation shelter to get warm.

It’s free to visit and you can drive directly to the top so there’s no hiking involved. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take something prior and please watch out for the animals on the way up! There are plenty of walks to do around the base of Mt Wellington if hiking is your thing. See here for options.

Once you’ve got back to the city, grab yourself some breakfast a t Machine Laundry Cafe or the famous Jackman & McRoss and slowly stroll towards the preserved town of Battery Point , a quaint suburb with cottages, cute roundabouts and historical landmarks. Go shopping on Liverpool street , roam around Elizabeth Street Pier  and if you love ciders, visit  Willie Smiths Apple Shed in Huon Valley (30 minutes from the city) for lunch and a refreshing cider! End the day with dinner at  Frank’s , an Argentinian restaurant with great steaks and even better vegetable side dishes.

TOP TIPS: (for foodies!)

• SALAMANCA MARKETS: The Salamanca Markets are Australia’s largest open-air market and are one of Tasmania’s main attractions! Please note they only take place on Saturday mornings from 8:30 – 3:30 and host 100’s of fresh food, clothing, music and an unforgettable atmosphere (so we’ve been told!). Unfortunately, we were in Hobart on a Monday & Tuesday (not recommended!) and missed this experience. If you can, plan to be in Hobart over a weekend to enjoy what all these markets have to offer. Devastated we missed out on all the free samples.
• STREET EATS @ FRANKO: Every Friday from 4:30pm – 9:30pm between November and April, Franklin Square boats a hyperactive street food night market featuring funky stalls, music, food, beer, wine & ciders. Picnic rugs are provided.

Day 3: PORT ARTHUR & THE TASMAN PENNINSULA

Say farewell to Hobart and a big hello to the Tasman Penninsula.

Head straight towards Eagle Hawk Neck , a narrow isthmus that connects the Tasman Peninsula with the Forestier Peninsula. Walk down to the Tesselated Pavements and soak in the beautiful scenery of the Tasman Arch.

Continue your drive along the coast towards the historical site of Port Arthur  for a look into the fascinating convict past. Tickets are $39 which includes a guided tour and a boat ride. You also have the option to do a self-guided tour with audio for an extra charge. If you’re into spooky tours, stick around for the nighttime ghost tour.

Our next stop was rather different! Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a town where everything starts with doo? Well, you can, here in Tasmania. There’s such a thing and it’s called, “ Doo Town “. How doolightful! Grab a snack at the doo-lishus food truck before checking out the nearby blowhole.

Along the peninsula you can also get up close and personal with the Tasmanian Devils at The Unzoo , sample Tasmanian chocolate at the chocolate factory and if you have more time consider walking The Cape Hauy walk . Avoid eating at Port Arthur and instead, stop into Bangor Wine and Oyster Shed (even if you don’t like oysters) for a wine tasting and lunch. The rosé was just delightful!

We spent the night in the small coastal town of Swansea.  There are short walks to do around the headland or you could eat fish and chips on the beach from  Oyster Bay Seafood. Not a must do, but a decent place to break up the drive.

Note: If you wish to visit Maria Island, (more info below) spend the night in Triabunna, not Swansea. 

Overnight: Swansea 

• Budget: Swansea Backpacker Lodge 
• Midrange: Swansea Beach Chalets
• Luxury: Piermont Retreat

Top Tours in Port Arthur

Day 4: the great eastern drive.

By now you will have begun the Great Eastern Drive ! 176km’s of vineyards, coastal towns, bays, beaches and never-ending beauty.

Just 10 minutes from Swansea is Kates Berry Farm . Sample a variety of jams, including “adults only jams” and enjoy a berry-filled breakfast before hitting up some wineries along the east coast trail.

This part of your journey will allow you to sample some of the world’s most renowned wines. The wineries are all relatively close together and all offer a different experience. Gala Estate , holds tastings in a 100-year-old home, still with its original stove and lounge room making for a very personal experience.  Devil’s Corner is one of the more popular and modern wineries along this route, especially for lunch. Spring Vale had a cute picnic area. The tastings at all these wineries were free.

Aim to spend the night in Bicheno. Bicheno is the closest coastal town to the famous Coles Bay and Freycinet National Park and is a great base for you to explore the region tomorrow! Allow enough time to walk around the town and if you’re there in time, have lunch at The Farm Shed , visit the beach and then head for a relaxed dinner at The Gulch which boasts fresh fish and chips on the wharf, accompanied by 1000’s of seagulls.

Overnight: Bicheno

DAY 5: COLES BAY & FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK

Have breakfast at Blue Edge Bakery in Bicheno (great pastries, coffee and sandwiches) and travel 30 minutes towards Coles Bay . It’s a good idea to pack sandwiches or snacks as there aren’t too many places to grab food inside the National Park without the high price inflation. The bakery has you sorted!

The primary reason tourists visit Freycinet National Park is to hike to the famous  Wineglass Bay lookout. It took roughly 30 minutes to get to the top and Jacob did it in no shoes, which caught the attention of a lot of other tourists who had bulky boots and walking poles…

There is a “do it yourself ” parking pass which allows you to buy a ticket and leave the receipt on your car. Rangers do come and inspect so don’t get yourself a fine by trying to avoid the system. The parking pass is $24 AUD. If you wish to walk down to wineglass bay, it is a 1.5-hour walk but remember, once you go down, you have to come back up! There are also Wineglass boat tours for a different experience.

You could spend hours in this National Park, especially if the weather is on your side. Be sure to stop by Honeymoon Bay  for a swim and it won’t take long before you feel like you’ve just entered a movie scene. On your way out, don’t miss the Friendly Beaches in Coles Bay. Before you ask, yep, that’s their real name and they’re definitely pretty friendly! Stunning.

Overnight: Bicheno or Freycinet National Park. If budget isn’t a concern, be sure to treat yourselves to a night ( or two)  at Freycinet Lodge ! 

Top Tours in Freycinet National Park

Day 6: bay of fires.

The Bay of Fires  stretches from Binalong Bay  in the south to Eddystone Point in the north and is an impressive combination of untouched wilderness with perfect strands of beaches. There are many white sandy beaches and inlets to explore. This area is famous for its orange-hued granite rocks which are actually produced by a lichen. There’s a fun fact for the day! It was really impressive to see, especially from above on our drone!

Do note that The Bay Of Fires refers to a whole area, not just a singular bay . The closest town is St Helens and there are a handful of restaurants to choose from. In Tasmania standards, it’s one of the “larger” of the towns. (Not including Hobart or Launceston). Binalong Bay Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Tasmania and where we spent our Australia Day although unfortunately, the weather wasn’t on our side.

The drive from Bay of Fires directly to Launceston isn’t too long (2 hours 45min) but after a day on the beach relaxing we chose to break it up by spending a night in the very quiet town of Pioneer. This is a very quiet country town with no restaurants or cafes so it’s best to stop in St Helens prior and get yourself some dinner for the evening. Our accommodation, Pioneer Lodge (one of the only two) was a large farmhouse with an old-school kitchen, but it was a unique place to spend the night. They have cooking facilities and breakfast included. Just don’t expect luxury!

Note: If you’re pressed for time, you can drive directly from The Bay Of Fires to Launceston (2 hours and 50 minutes). 

Overnight: Pioneer 

DAY 7: LAUNCESTON via DERBY

After breakfast head for the small town of Derby which is close by. Derby is famous for its Blue Derby Mountain Bike trails with more than 100km of trails to chose from.

You can rent the bikes from Vertigo MTB in the centre of town and spend as little or as long on the mountain as you wish for $59 AUD. I, unfortunately, had a big fall within the first 15 minutes and opted out for the rest of the morning but Jacob enjoyed over 40km’s worth, accident-free.

If mountain biking isn’t your thing (I don’t blame you), you can choose a more appropriate activity like wine tasting at Piper Brooks or Jansz Winery , take a walk along the beach at Bridport or d uring the summer season (January being the best) make a worthy pit stop at Bridestowe Lavender Estate  and marvel at the never-ending rows of bright purple lavender fields. Don’t forget to try the lavender flavoured ice cream! Launceston can be reached within 45 minutes from here.

Photo Credit: Georgie Sharp.

Overnight: Launceston 

• Budget: Pod Inn
• Midrange: Two up on York
• Luxury: Peppers Silo

Top Tours in Launceston

Day 8: tamar valley.

There’s always more room for wine and the Tamar Valley is one of the most popular of the wine routes in Tasmania. You can jump on a tour from Launceston or head out on your own and stop in as many or as little as you like. Our top picks were Velo , Wines for Joanie , Moore Hill Estate , and a family-owned vineyard,  Iron Pot Bay Vineyard . Is there such a thing as too much cheese and wine in a day? I don’t think so.

If the weather calls for it, take a drive to Batman’s Bridge and Low Head Lighthouse for a relaxing afternoon.

Top Tip: On the 4th Sunday of every month between November and April, Moore Hill Estate holds “Sparkling Seafood Sundays” which includes fresh seafood dishes along side delicious wines. You don’t need to purchase tickets, just make a reservation and show up hungry and thirsty!

Overnight: Launceston

DAY 9: LAUNCESTON

Today we spent the day exploring the city of Launceston ! A vibrant hub for food, wine and culture. Make a reservation for breakfast at   Stillwater Cafe , a restored 1830s flour mill on the Tamar River.  The green and red bowls were both delicious!

Just outside Stillwater Cafe, you’ll find the beginning of the Cataract Gorge . A beautiful gorge super close to the city centre. The gorge is the perfect place for a long walk or run, a place to relax or in the warmer months, a swim in either the gorge or it’s very own pool. For those more prone to hiking, head out on the Zig Zag Track.

The rest of the day could be spent shopping in the CBD , taking a tour of the James Boag Brewery , relaxing in City Park , visiting the Automotive Museum, taking in the art at The Queen Victoria Museum and MOST importantly, making room for all the food from one of the many high-quality restaurants including dessert at Charlie’s Dessert Bar . Drool. Here are some top recommendations for restaurants. 

It would take up half the post if we listed every single winery in Tasmania but there are two more worth mentioning a short drive from the city so if you have the time, check them out! Joseph Cromey Wines  (shown below) and Leaning Church Vineyard were two standouts for us. Have a beautiful sit-down lunch at the award-winning restaurant in Joseph Cromey or devour a kick-ass cheese plate alongside your favourite glass of wine. Mmm wine and cheese.

Overnight: Launceston (or Mole Creek to break up the drive tomorrow)

DAY 10: CRADLE MOUNTAIN & MOLE CREEK

Prepare yourself for a whole day out! This was one of our biggest days.

Drive from Launceston towards Cradle Mountain but first, take the edge off with breakfast at The Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm (40 minutes from Launceston). They have a huge selection of delicious meals with fresh raspberries galore! Jump back on the road and carry on to the Mole Creek Caves .

There are 2 caves to see, The Marakoopa Caves which is home to the largest concentration of glow worms in the country and The King Solomon Caves which are the dry caves. You can’t access the caves without being on a tour. Marakoopa tours leave on the hour starting at 10:00 am and King Solomon at 10:30 am. Entry ( + tour) is $19 AUD. It’s 9 degrees in the caves so bring a jacket.

The drive to Cradle Mountain is a further 1.5 hours (or just under). Cradle Mountain is one of Tasmania’s famous attractions. Shuttle buses leave from the visitor centre and drop hikers to designated spots throughout the park. There is a range of walks to do from easy to challenging with the most popular hike being around Dove Lake . This can be completed in 2-3 hours and is easy to moderate.

From October-May, keen hikers can tackle “The Overland Track”. A 6-day hike  covering 82km. You have to carry everything with you (food, water, tents, clothes). The weather can change rapidly in Cradle Mountain and it is not recommended for anyone without a high level of fitness and/or experience.

Before you reach Launceston, we’d suggest stopping into Ashgrove Cheese Factory to sample 6 -7 different kinds of cheese and then onwards to Van Diemen’s Land Creamery and end the day with 2 scoops (or more) of ice cream! It’s a 40-minute drive back to Launceston from here.

Top Tours at Cradle Mountain

Accommodation in cradle mountain.

If you have the time, break up your trip with a night or two at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge  or Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village. The views from the surrounding Tasmanian wilderness aren’t to be missed! 

But WAIT there’s more…

There’s never enough time for everything but had we have had more time, these are some other notable places worth visiting.

1. Bruny Island (South-East Coast) : 

Take a day trip via ferry (with your car) from Hobart or better yet, stay overnight at one of the many accommodation choices.  Explore the island by foot, bicycle or car. Bruny Island offers beautiful scenery, crystal clear waters and small beaches as well as a chance to enjoy Tasmania’s finest cheeses at the Bruny Island Cheese Company . Ferries leave from Kettering, 40 minutes south of Hobart and you can find the schedule here . Note: Some car companies don’t allow you to take the car here so be sure to check the fine print on your rental. 

2. Maria Island (East Coast) : 

A 30-minute ferry from Triabunna will bring you to Maria Island. An island with convict heritage, rare wildlife, great walks and stunning scenery. There are no vehicles allowed on this island making it a very special place to enjoy without any of the chaos. There is some accommodation available  but don’t expect 5 stars. You can find the schedule and fares for the ferry here . Note: You will need to bring your own food and water. There are no shops on this island and it is recommended to pre-buy your ferry tickets. 

3. Strahan (West Coast) :

A small town on the west coast of Hobart tucked between Macquarie Harbour and the rainforest. During the winter it can be a very sleepy fishing village but in the summer months, it comes alive with hoards of tourists. Be sure to take a sunset stroll down Ocean Beach, Tasmania’s longest beach (30km!), a cruise down The Gordon River and enjoy the Tasmanian wilderness (an entirely different scene than the east coast).

Insider Tips for your Tasmanian Road Trip

• If you’re looking for a phone carrier, opt for Telstra. We struggled to get service on Vodaphone through the towns and mountains.
• Please watch out for the wildlife . There is a staggering 1/2 a million animals killed every year on the roads in Tasmania. You literally couldn’t go 1km without seeing a dead animal. It was really awful. Slow down, pay attention to the signs and if you hit an animal, call Bonorong Rescue Centre, Tasmania’s only 24-hour wildlife rescue service.
• It’s a real Aussie thing to eat a meat pie, but you’re in Tasmania so be sure to indulge in a Tasmanian Scallop Pie. They’re sold everywhere. 
• Don’t be alarmed if you don’t see a single person for hours at a time on the roads. Tasmania is SO quiet!
• Try to aim for the weekend in Hobart, there’s a lot more going on and a lot of restaurants closed Monday/Tuesdays.
• Visit Mt Wellington at sunrise.

• Get yourself a National Park Pass for $60 if you plan to visit 2 national parks. This allows entry into all of the parks.
• Those pesky parking ticket attenders scout the streets religiously for people overstaying their parking . Don’t presume it won’t happen to you.
• Launceston’s premier event is Festivale , a 3-day event held in February each year. This festival offers you a chance to sample Tasmania’s best produce incl beer, wine, ciders, food, arts and entertainment.
• Petrol stations can be few and far between on the longer roads so if you’re in doubt and you see one, fill ‘er up!
• Some, but not all wineries do free tastings. Ask prior if they will cost. If they do, it’s usually only $5 which is refundable with a bottle of wine purchase.

STRAYA’ MATE

Who knew kangaroos could lift cars?!

Have you done a road trip to Tasmania before? Anything you’d like to add? We’d love to hear from you!

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14 Comments

Thanks for the great blog. My wife and I set off on the Spirit of TAS on the 20th March for 2 weeks in our Troop carrier. We look forward to checking out what the island state has to offer. Looks like you two had fun!

You’re welcome Zac, enjoy your time there. And yup, lots of fun!

Love your itinerary. Looking forward to our December trip. Will keep your itinerary in hand.

Glad to hear Helen! Enjoy 🙂

question ; How do we return to Hobart at the end of the road trip, do we drive back the same route and if so is the time on the road included in the ultimate itinerary?

You can either go the same way you came or a different way which is more direct through the centre which will take around 2 hours or so.

Great article guys and love the photo gallery. We took a similar itinerary but included the loop from Hobart around to Cradle Mountain. Added a lot more driving but some beautiful stops along the way such as Russell Falls and Lake St Clair.

Such a nice trip isn’t it! I wish we had longer!

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The Perfect 2-Week Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

• Last Updated: January 12, 2024

Check out this perfect 2-week self drive Tasmania road trip itinerary to help you plan your epic adventure around Australia’s most beautiful state!

Tasmania, that bit of Australia that everyone knows exists but few seem to visit.

I first visited Australia in 2008 and sadly did not make it to Tasmania. Since then it’s been a place that has been on my bucket list.

Recently my wife and I finally made it down that far south to check out all the best places to visit in Tasmania .

This stunning island may just be Australia’s best-kept secret. Although I cannot imagine it staying that way for long.

Unlike the rest of Australia, Tasmania is small and compact.  The journeys are short, the roads are winding and the sea is cold. It’s perfect for a road trip.

The scenery is simply breathtaking. Of all the places I have been in Australia, this may just be my favourite state.

From the beauty of a national park to the natural beauty from nearly any side of the road views, a road trip through Tasmania is truly spectacular.

Table of Contents

Driving Comfort

Buying a national parks pass, eating and drinking in tasmania, day 1: hobart, day 2: port arthur, day 3: tasman peninsula, day 4: maria island, day 5: freycinet national park and wineglass bay, day 6: freycinet national park and bay of fires, day 7: bay of fires, day 8: tamar valley, day 9: cradle to coast tasting trail, day 10: boat harbour beach and cradle mountain, day 11: cradle mountain summit, day 12: cradle mountain, horse riding and onto the west coast, day 13: strahan and the western wilderness way, day 14: bruny island, what did we miss on our tasmania road trip itinerary, tips for a self drive tasmania road trip.

Below is our 2-week Tasmania itinerary that took us all the way around this beautiful island. Obviously some parts can be extended or chopped off as you wish.

However, we found this Tasmania itinerary gave us plenty of time to see the vast majority of what we wanted to see without being rushed.

Be warned though, Tasmania is not like mainland Australia.

It does rain, especially around Cradle Mountain. So even in the middle of summer, do not be surprised if you encounter a fair few showers during your road trip.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our new  travel to Australia  guide.

How to Get Around – Car vs Campervan

You cannot road trip Tasmania by public transport alone. To really enjoy and experience everything this incredible place has to offer you need your own set of wheels.

Luckily renting a car in Tasmania is cheap, we rented a car for $66 dollars a day, which included zero excess insurance.

The cheapest campervan we found was 3 times this amount. But if you love this style of travel, then this could be a good option. Check out Spaceships for affordable vans for rent.

We would recommend hiring a car for Tasmania for the following reasons:

The overall cost of renting a car is substantially cheaper. However, in effect, you need to work out if car rental + accommodation is going to be cheaper than camper-van + holiday parks.

From our pre-trip calculations, a car turned out to be our best bet.

We averaged $150 on car + accommodation on our trip, which was cheaper than the rental cost of a camper van.

Cars drink less fuel, period. We had a lovely Toyota Prius Hybrid which meant our fuel costs were minimal. This is a big plus on a Tasmania road trip, where fuel prices can be quite high.

I personally prefer driving cars to camper vans due to the manoeuvrability, ease of parking in cities and less stress driving on winding roads.

Of course, this is all up to you though. With an epic Tasmania itinerary, you’ll have an amazing time no matter how you choose to get around.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Buying a National Park Pass is a must for anyone planning to visit Tasmania’s National Parks .

It costs $89 AUD per vehicle and gives you unlimited entry to Tasmania’s National Parks for 2 months.

You can buy it at any National Park visitor centre. Just remember to display it on your dashboard or you will be fined.

It also saves $10 AUD on the ferry to Maria Island. The alternative is paying $24 AUD per 24 hours. So long as you visit national parks for a minimum 3 days then you’ve made your money back.

Like mainland Australia, eating out can be quite expensive at times. As a result, the vast majority of travellers will be cooking for themselves at numerous points on their travels.

Pick up a cheap cool bag to keep food fresh, as you cannot always guarantee a fridge (unless of course, you have a campervan).

We stayed in a mixture of holiday parks, AirBnBs, hotels and guesthouses on this Tasmania itinerary. We only had a couple of nights without a kitchen which helped us keep our spending down.

Click here to get $35 off of your first AirBnB booking!

That being said, Tasmania’s gourmet produce is both popular and delicious so don’t forget to indulge now and then, especially on the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail!

2-Week Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Without further ado, let’s hit the road with my ultimate Tasmania road trip itinerary!

Fly into Hobart city centre and pick up your rental car.

After getting to our AirBnB and dumping our stuff head up Mount Wellington for stunning views over Hobart and the wider area, even as far as Bruny Island.

Then head to the Museum of Tasmania before spending the evening wandering around Battery Point and beautiful Salamanca.

From Hobart, it’s a short drive to Port Arthur on the east coast. This excellent historical site gives you the opportunity to understand more about Tasmania’s fascinating convict history.

You can book a guided tour or a ghost tour to learn more about the history and spookiness around the historic site. Also consider booking your entry ticket online in advance during peak season to save yourself some time.

Port Arthur is also home to Australia’s worst-ever massacre. While this is a pretty morbid topic, it’s important to pay homage to the victims at the Port Arthur Memorial Garden.

• Where We Stayed: Bluegum Guesthouse

On Day 3 of your Tasmania road trip, you are likely to first experience the island’s infamously temperamental weather.

Spend the morning exploring the convict coal mines located on the north west coast of the Tasman peninsula.

From there, head back to quirky little Doo Town for some gorgeous coastal scenery and excellent food from the fish and chip van next to the blowhole.

Close to Doo Town are some beautiful coastal viewpoints which a well worth exploring.

After crossing back across the Eagles Neck, check out the dog line museum before heading on towards the tessellated pavements. Here there is a lovely walk along the coast giving some wonderful views of the Tasman peninsula.

From here, head up to the tiny coastal town of Triabunna, in preparation for your journey to Maria Island.

• Where we stayed: Triabunna Holiday Park

Check out our full guide to the best things to do on the Tasman Peninsula !

Catch the ferry from the Tiabunna Visitor Centre at 10:30. You should aim to get to the ferry terminal around 30 minutes before departure.

Incidentally, you can also pick up you National Park Pass here and save yourself $10 AUD on the ferry ride.

The journey only takes around 30 minutes. And if the weather is looking good, you can stake out space at the front to sunbathe.

We only spent one day on Maria Island . If you want to stay the night there are campsites and cabins that can be booked.

READ MORE: Check out our brand new guide to the best things to do in Tasmania !

You are also able to rent mountain bikes, which can be arranged at the visitor centre in Triabunna and picked up in Darlington.

If you are only doing 1 day, a bike allows you to cover a decent amount of ground.

From Darlington, we headed for the painted cliffs which are leisurely 30-minute ride. We dumped our bikes and went to explore the amazing coastline.

We carried on further down the track stopping at various points along the way to explore the coastline and find a place to have our picnic.

It was here we encountered wombats, wallabies and pademelons.

We carried on further down the coast before heading back to snorkel around the painted cliffs.

The area from Darlington to just beyond the painted cliffs is a protected marine reserve. The snorkelling is pretty good, but the visibility isn’t great.

This wasn’t helped by the huge thunderstorm that hit not long after getting in.

As I was coming back in I got the fright of my life in the form of a 2-meter wide stingray coming out of nowhere.

Do be aware that the water here is cold too. I went in without a wet suit and was okay, but you will definitely have a more pleasant experience with one.

We spent the remaining couple of hours dropping the bikes off, spotting roos on the hills close the jetty and avoiding the rain.

After getting the last ferry back we drove up to Bicheno. Coles Bay is the other popular option for accommodation in the park. Coles Bay is closer to the attractions, but Bicheno is a bit bigger and has more going on.

We chose this as it was cheaper than anything else close to Freycinet and after camping in the rain in Triabunna a tent wasn’t on the agenda for Miranda.

• Book your accommodation for Bicheno ahead of time here .

We hopped in our car and headed for the Freycinet National Park for day 5 on our Tasmania road trip.

From Bicheno, it’s around a 30-minute drive. Probably more during dawn or dusk as the risk of wildlife jumping out increases dramatically in and around the national park.

We headed down to the visitor centre to check out some of the walks to come up with our plan of action. We ended up doing the Wineglass Beach Walk overlooking Wineglass Bay.

Understandably this is one of the most popular walks in Tasmania, so don’t be surprised if it’s busy. To avoid the crowds simply walk down to Wineglass Bay Beach from the lookout.

The vast majority of tourists head up to the Wineglass Bay Lookout and back down again. As a result, the beach is actually very quiet in comparison. This is a great spot to pull out that picnic basket.

Alternatively, if you have the time, consider this Wineglass Bay cruise from Coles Bay.

There are plenty of other great walks in the national park. The Hazards Beach walk, in particular, gets rave reviews, and you can’t really beat the Mount Amos hike at sunrise .

Don’t forget to display your Parks Pass if you are doing any longer than 2 days in Tasmania’s parks.

That evening it was back to our AirBnB in Bicheno and dinner at a Pasini’s, a great little restaurant on the edge of Bicheno.

Day 6 of the road trip, we spent the morning at Freycinet checking out Sleepy Bay and the beautiful friendly beaches. The latter giving the iconic windswept beach vibe that Tasmania is known for.

We grabbed something to eat in Bicheno and headed up towards the Bay of Fires. This drive is spectacular, a real highlight of any road trip around Tasmania. So have your camera ready and keep your eyes peeled for places to park.

Accommodation in the Bay of Fires area around St Helens in the summer can be eye-wateringly expensive. We actually stayed 30 minutes south of St Helens at Scamander Sanctuary Holiday Park in possibly the nicest tent I have ever seen.

After dumping our stuff we carried on up Tasmania’s other famous beach, Binalong Bay along the east coast. Head to the Northern section of Binalong Bay, by taking the C848, to avoid the crowds.

The water here actually wasn’t too cold, although it can get really windy, so a tent or windbreaker could be a lifesaver on the beach.

• Where we stayed: Scamander Sanctuary Holiday Park

The park has a fully equipped kitchen and fantastic glamping style tents. It’s awesome for a Tasmania road trip.

On Day 7 of your Tasmania road trip itinerary you’re in for a treat.

From Scamander towards St Helens and the Bay of Fires, the coastline is absolutely stunning and the chances are you will have it all to yourself.

Even in mid-January, one of the busiest times in Tasmania, we had whole beaches to ourselves.

Following this, we headed beyond Binalong Bay up to the Gardens for some beautiful coastal scenery and a bit of bouldering.

Once you get beyond one of Tasmania’s most famous beaches you have a plethora of beautiful places to stop and explore.

We headed as far as the road would take us hopped out of our car and went exploring. Half the fun of the Bay of Fires is exploring. Just park up somewhere that looks pretty and go for a wander.

Late afternoon we headed for little Launceston, Tasmania’s second city, for want of a better description.

We still had some picnic food so we took it down to the marina for dinner as the sunset.

This was definitely a highlight of our road trip along Tasmania’s east coast.

We took a slightly more relaxed pace in our road trip today taking in the gorgeous Tamar Valley.

We did plan on heading over the Bridestowe Lavender Farm. However, we ended up in Seahorse World and Platypus House at the northwestern end of the Tamar Valley.

This was a little pricey, but pretty interesting. The platypuses and echidnas are extremely adorable.

From Tamar Valley we headed back down towards to Cataract Gorge stopping in at the Exeter bakery for a curry rice pie (a must if you’re passing).

At Cataract Gorge, there is a lovely walk or you can do like most and hop straight in the lake.

This was one of our highlights during our two-week road trip in Tasmania.

Effectively this is a 150km trail that you drive and stop off at gourmet produce places and eateries on the route. If you are in any way a foodie, this is an absolute must.

Most of the eateries are between Deloraine and the wonderfully named town of Penguin. However, we carried on beyond Penguin to beautiful Stanley for our final stop on the trail.

After an amazing seafood dinner, we hiked up the Nut for some stunning sunset views. Whilst it’s not a long hike, the initial climb is extremely steep.

On day 10 of the road trip, we spent the morning at the beach and the afternoon in the mountains.

We spent the morning at the beautiful Boat Harbour Beach with golden sands, clear blue water and gorgeous coastal scenery!

From here it was a 1.5-hour drive down to one of Tasmania’s highlights; Cradle Mountain.

After checking into our hotel, we headed down to complete the Dove Lake hike. Here we found a gorgeous, easy hike that is perfect to do around sunset.

• Where we stayed : Cradle Mountain Hotel

The Cradle Mountain Hotel was above our budget. But the convenience and lack of more affordable accommodation close to the park made this a winner in our eyes.

Cradle Mountain- Lake St Clair National Park has some of the best hiking in Tasmania and is a must-see on a road trip. It is the beginning of the Overland Track, as well as being the stage for some phenomenal day walks.

Sadly we did not have enough time to do the Overland Track so I settled for the summit hike. (Although you can read all about the founders of this website’s experience of hiking the Overland Track by clicking here .)

Safe to say this is a tough hike and it absolutely should not be attempted in wet or snowy conditions since it will make the final rock scrambling and bouldering sections extremely dangerous.

This hike is an absolute must if you are heading to Cradle Mountain. And you can easily spend a few hours relaxing along Lake St Clair after the hike.

Don’t miss the NOMADasaurus guide to  hiking the Larapinta Trail , one of Australia’s other great walks.

We checked out some of the shorter walks that began around the experience centre in the morning.

Afterwards, we headed out with Cradle Country Adventures to go horse riding around their Belvoir Area track taking us up for a stunning view of Cradle Mountain.

From here we headed down towards the old mining town of Queenstown stopping in a Zeehan on the way.

Whilst it makes an interesting place to look around, Zeehan does have a slight “straight out of a horror film” kind of vibe, fascinating in an odd kind of way.

Queenstown is littered with relics and reminders of the mining boom. It was a great place to spend the night.

• Where we stayed : Empire Hotel

This excellent old hotel is a stark reminder of the gold era time of the west coast. The food here is great!

If you want a real adventure from Cradle Mountain and have a bit more time, head out to the Tarkine for this 2-day road trip extension!

On Day 13 of our road trip, we drove down the west coast to the quaint seaside village town of Strahan. If you head due west from here the next bit of land you would hit would be Argentina.

Along with Zeehan and Queenstown, Strahan also benefitted hugely from the gold rush times. Now it’s a much more sedate and laid back affair.

It’s a decent place to explore for a morning, but probably not worth much more time than that. From here it was a long drive down to Hobart.

The west coast is Tasmania at its most desolate. There is one road from Strahan to Hobart. At times, it almost seems like the outback but with more trees.

There are plenty of viewpoints, short hikes and sights on route to break up this long drive.

This gorgeous little island is only an hour or so away from Hobart. As a result, Bruny Island can get pretty busy at weekends or during the holidays.

It pays to show up half an hour early than you really need to as the queue to get on the boat can be pretty long.

We immediately headed for the Neck viewpoint, which since it is one of the best viewpoints can be pretty busy. However, the views are absolutely spectacular.

From here we headed down to grass point for a beautiful coastal and then spent to rest of the day beach hopping around the rest of the island.

A great idea is to go ahead and book this tour in advance so you get the best of Bruny Island in a 3-hour cruise. If you have more time, consider this highly-rated full-day tour .

Alternatively, if you missed it on Day 1 of your Tasmania road trip you could spend the day exploring Mount Wellington for some incredible views over Hobart.

Well in our 2 week Tasmania road trip we managed to see a huge amount of the island. But there were a few things we sadly did not get the opportunity to visit.

The list below were places that we planned on visiting on the road trip. However, unfortunately for us, time ran out.

• Haast Caves
• Mole Creek National Park
• Mt Field National Park

There are probably plenty of other amazing things that we missed on our road trip, but that just gives us a reason to return to this incredible island.

Hope you enjoyed my 2-week Tasmania road trip itinerary. If you did leave a comment below! Happy travels.

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Hey, I am from Israel and planning (with my wife) a trip to Tasmania, around February-March. First of all, thank you for your route, it is well described and provided a lot of information that I will certainly use in my planning. I read several posts, and what I’m missing, including yours, is a reference to watching (terrestrial) animals. I know Tasmania is one big nature reserve. Have you encountered any animals? Which? where? Are there any established sites to meet animals? Anything you recommend? Thanks for everything, Shmulik.

Tasmania is a great state to travel around. There are a few sanctuary around but do your research before you go. We highly recommend Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary just outside of Hobart. They are great.

You can have animal encounters sometimes when you are hiking and on Maria Island. Please keep your distance from the animals and never touch them. They are wild. Have a great time.

Wow! We are trying to plan a road trip around Tassie and had no idea where to start. You have given us so much wonderful information. I will be telling my friends about your site. So very thankful for the breakdown you provided. Thank you thank you thank you. Hugs and Blessings to you both.xx

Hi Wendy, how exciting you are going to Tasmania. We love this state so much. We spent 3 months exploring Tassie, so if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are happy to help. Happy planning. 🙂

I would suggest you missed a few things to do around Strahan. The wilderness in that location is absolutely incredible and there are some beautiful hikes to do, along with train and boat excursions. Apart from that critique, your itinerary and write-up was excellent. Thanks for posting.

This is on my bucket list as well, such a beautiful place. I’m wondering being from the states if I will be able to adjust to driving because I would rather drive myself around. Fantastic article thank you!!

Hi Heather, thank you so much. We totally understand about driving on the other side of the road. It is like that for us when we visit the USA or Canada. The rental companies understand this and some offer a lesson before hiring. Definitely get the insurance so you are covered incase anything happens. Your travel insurance may offer you car rental insurance so check with that first before taking out the rental car’s insurance. Our suggestion is to hire a small car. This will depend on what time of year you are going. In winter hire a larger vehicle as it may snow. In the summer, you should be fine with a smaller car. The roads are quiet in Tasmania compared to other places in Australia, like near Sydney, Melbourne and the Gold Coast.

A perfect Tas itinerary indeed! Beaches and national parks are the best for families with kids. Thanks for the self-drive tip as we also wouldn’t want a rushed trip. Keeping this post handy!

Agree. They are so beautiful there. We were blown away. Thank you. Glad the article was helpful

Tourism Tasmania owes you a beer! I wanted to take a two week holiday in October 2021 but wasn’t sure where Was contemplating scuba trip on Great Barrier Reef, Margaret River/Perth road trip, Darwin NT, and Tassie.

Read your article and within 6 hours booked Spirit of Tasmania for a two week stay in Tassie and started making some pre and post travel and accommodation plans!

haha thank you. We are stoked this article was helpful for you. There is so many awesome places to go in Australia. That is awesome we could help you decide. You are going to have such a great time in Tasmania. It is a beautiful state. When are you planning on going. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out. There is so much to do in Tasmania. It is a little overwhelming (in the good way). Have a great trip.

Very helpful ideas. We are planning a trip to Tasmania to see and learn more about the convict sites. Not sure how they would fit into your itinerary but we will see.

We have budgeted $5000.00 to cover accom car hire food and drink etc for 14 day tour….hope this covers it all,we are happy for 4star accom and mix some cabin s in as well… I think a plan of Hobart one night,port Arthur one night,Coles bay one night,Bicheno one nightLaunceston 2 nights,(including drive to Campbell town and Ross and back one day),then one night Devonport (why don’t people seem to like Devonport as a stop?)then overnight Wyndham,one night cradle mountain,Strahan 2 nights ,then back to Hobart 3 nights.and do road trips down to Huonville,Bruny ,mt Wellington etc.

Interesting read. We did a similar itinerary but focus a bit more on hiking and camping. Tasmania is a great place for outdoor lovers!.

When in Strahan, one must take the trip on the cog railway and the spectacular Gordon River tour. You might give a warning about driving on the road into Queenstown from the south – it is treacherous.

Near Hobart is the Bonorong Wildlife Refuge. There is a nighttime tour I did not get to take that is supposed to be especially worthwhile. A good place doing good things.

Sorry if the names I gave aren’t exact – it’s been a few years. (I hope to go again soon!)

Thank you so much for the tips Ginny. Something to add to our list. 🙂

great pictures, I would love to go to one of these places, thank you for sharing this post.

Thank you for your comment Jasmine. Richard made us want to go too. We have never been either. Tasmania looks like an incredible place.

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Tasmania Explorer

Tasmania Road Trip Planner✅: How To Plan A Trip To Tasmania

Planning to travel Tasmania and looking for a complete guide with everything you need to know? You’re in the right place!

We’ve written this article to help your travel to Tasmania be as organised and enjoyable as possible. We love Tasmania and have both lived here and travelled the state extensively (I was born here). There are so many phenomenal things to see that a holiday Tasmania guide is essential to get the most out of visiting this stunning state.

Tasmania is an awesome destination and a road trip Tasmania is the best way to explore this state. This state has the advantage of being rather compact but with plenty of unique and interesting places to explore. A Tasmanian road trip can visit mountains, ancient rainforests, walking tracks and historical towns with their own story, and includes some of the best produce and wine the country offers.

As you can imagine, a guide is essential to see the highlights of Tasmania and get the most out of your trip. This is the only guide you need to plan your trip to Tasmania.

Let’s get started!

Click here to download your free Tasmania Road Trip Planner checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip! Wan t help with your itinerary? Find our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here.

• 1.1 Consider When You Want To Go
• 1.2 Consider How Long You Want To Go
• 3.1 Flying To Tasmania
• 3.2 Getting The Boat (Spirit Of Tasmania)
• 4 Where To Go On Your Tasmania Road Trip
• 5 Itineraries For Your Road Trip To Tasmania
• 6 Where To Stay In Tasmania
• 7.1 1. Drive Or Hire A Car
• 7.3 3. Taxi And Ride Sharing Apps
• 7.4 4. Tours
• 8 Planning Tasmania Tours
• 9 What To Pack For Your Trip To Tasmania
• 10 What To Book And When
• 12 Travelling Tasmania With Kids
• 13 Other Things To Note
• 14.1 Related posts:

The Ultimate Holiday Tasmania Guide – How To Plan A Trip To Tasmania

There are a few things you will want to consider first before planning your road trip around Tasmania. This includes how much time you have available to explore the state, when you can go and also planning a trip to Tasmania during Covid.

Consider When You Want To Go

Depending on what you want to see, you should definitely consider the weather when planning your trip around Tasmania.

Tasmania has a temperate climate similar to Victoria but cooler with less extremely hot days. Summer days can be either sunny and pleasant or cold and windy.

The west coast differs from the east. On the west there is considerably higher rainfall than the east of the state. If you want to spend time outdoors exploring the national parks, spring and summer are your best bet.

Spring/summer lasts between September – March but the best road trip Tasmania times are usually towards the end of December through to the end of March. This is also the bulk tourist season and I recommend booking ahead for anything you want to do.

During winter it can be wet and very cold (the centre of the state is usually blanketed in snow) and the top of Mount Wellington snows which makes Hobart cold. Thankfully, most days are not too wet and you can usually get by with some warm clothes. Less tourists are also seen during these times.

You can read our full guide to when to visit Tasmania here .

Consider How Long You Want To Go

There are a variety of Tasmania trips you can do depending on your timeframe.

Tasmania is easy to explore and you can see a lot even in a short amount of time, but to get the most out of its variety of attractions I recommend over a week here. This will give you a good overview of the state. A one week road trip in Tasmania can be enough to explore Hobart and either the east or west of the state.

If you want to see both the east and the west then I recommend longer, like a 14 day trip in Tasmania. You can decide what you want to see in the itineraries which are listed further below.

Use the map below as your Tasmania road trip planner to get an idea of the state and the spread of attractions.

How To Travel To Tasmania

Flying to tasmania.

Tasmania has airports in Hobart and Launceston (and small airports in Devonport and Burnie). Most people fly into Hobart Airport which is fairly well connected to the mainland (with direct flights to Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney Canberra and Perth) and flights to New Zealand.

Hiring a car at either Hobart or Launceston Airport is easy and there are plenty of car hire companies. This is the best option for a short break Tasmania, or a longer trip if you live far from Geelong or don’t have your own car.

Getting The Boat (Spirit Of Tasmania)

If you want to take your own car to Tasmania you can do this on the Spirit of Tasmania (or “the boat” as it’s known in Tasmania). This is a drive-on-drive-off ferry that departs from Geelong and arrives in Devonport in the north of the state.

The Spirit of Tasmania operates night sailings year round and day sailings during peak seasons. There are a few amenities on board like bars, a restaurant, shop and cinema and you can get a cabin or seat. On day sailings, you don’t need to book a cabin or seat.

This is a fun way to travel but be mindful you need to factor in another day for the sailing.

As the ship also docks in Devonport (a bit over 3 hours from Hobart) you’ll also need to plan your trip from here.

It’s not super cheap to travel on the Spirit but for a longer trip it might be comparable to the cost of a hire car (with the convenience of having your own car).

I do recommend paying extra for a cabin. It’s far more comfortable, even for day sailings when the public areas can be quite crowded, and you get your own bathroom. At the time of publishing, it also has the advantage of not needing to wear a mask in your cabin whereas you do need to in all public areas of the ship.

Read our complete guide to taking the Spirit of Tasmania here.

Where To Go On Your Tasmania Road Trip

Tasmania may be a small island but each part of the state really does offer visitors something different. There is a vast array of national parkland with some phenomenal natural wonders to witness as well as unique towns and a rich colonial and celebrated convict past.

Read up on the different areas below to plan a trip Tasmania that interests you.

• Hobart – The state capital and a must see. Full of historic charm, museums, art galleries, bars and restaurants. It’s a good base to explore nearby sites like Richmond, MONA, wineries, Mt Wellington etc.
• Huon & South – Easily accessible from Hobart. See the Huon Valley and towns along the coast. Visit Hasting Cave, Tahune Airwalk and Bruny Island – a large island off the east coast of Tasmania. This rugged island has stunning lookouts like the Neck Lookout, beaches, some excellent produce and a historic lighthouse.
• West Coast – Connect with nature by visiting the west coast. This rugged area consists mostly of national park land with abandoned settlements, towns like Queenstown and  Strahan and the opportunity to see Tasmania’s rare cold temperate rainforest.
• East Coast – Vastly different from the west, the east coast includes towns like stunning St Helens, Bicheno and Coles Bay (where you can sample excellent seafood). Hike to the stunning Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park. See amazing beaches and beautifully scenic coastline.

• North West Coast – Visit Boat Harbour for the beach, Stanley for the Nut, see the tulips in Table Cape, visit the towns of Stanley, Burnie and more.
• South East Coast – Explore Orford and take a ferry to Maria Island – an ex-penal settlement complete with historic buildings and natural trails. The island has no permanent inhabitants.
• Launceston –  The second largest city in Tasmania with plenty of it’s own things to see and do.
• Tamar Valley – One of our favourite spots in Tasmania. A beautifully scenic region with vineyards and wineries as well as plenty of things to do in towns like Beaconsfield, Low Head, Beauty Point etc.
• Midlands –  The centre is perfect for fishing, camping and simply getting away. The centre (like Miena) are less frequently visited by tourists and covered in snow in the winter. Northern towns include Evandale and Longford and have some interesting UNESCO estates .

Itineraries For Your Road Trip To Tasmania

Once you’ve decided how long you’ve got for your road trip to Tasmania, it’s time to start planning your trip!

Tasmania offers a lot of variety and the east and west offer very different scenery so it’s good to get an idea of what you would like to see, especially if you have limited time.

Your itinerary will also depend on whether your trip starts from the north of the state (if you take your car on the Spirit of Tasmania which docks at Devonport, or if you fly into Launceston Airport) or the south (by flying into Hobart Airport).

We have Tasmania itineraries for anywhere between 3 to 21 days in the state. These itineraries are your personal road trip planner Tasmania.

• 4-5 Day Tasmania Itinerary with options for a 3 day trip or just a weekend.
• 7 Day Tasmania Itinerary with options for 6 – 8 days.
• 10 Day Tasmania Itinerary with options for 9 days.
• 14 Day Tasmania Itinerary with options for 12 – 21 days.

You can also find more itineraries and a detailed plan for each day in our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here.

A 14 day trip offers the best overview of the state although you can definitely spend longer. However, some people may not have this much time available.

A week is a good amount of time for a great taste of the state and will allow you explore either the west or east of the state.

If you only have time for a short trip to Tasmania, it’s good to consider whether you want to spend more time exploring the cities and towns or the national parks. A short trip from Devonport for example could include a stop in Launceston, a trip though the Tamar Valley, continue on to Cradle Mountain and then return to Devonport.

Read the itineraries linked to above from our road trip Tasmania blog to get an idea of what you would like to do.

Where To Stay In Tasmania

Tasmania offers accommodation options for all travelers. Throughout the state are numerous caravan parks, hotels from budget to luxury and also plenty of camping grounds.

I always use Booking.com for my accommodation in Tasmania. Most accommodation options are available on here and cancellation is usually very clear and easy (particularly important during Covid).

For older caravan parks, you may need to book with the park directly.

You can find some free camping grounds around Tasmania, but for the best camping you’ll want to purchase a National Park Pass. This will give you access to camping grounds with facilities like BBQ’s, toilets, showers etc (although this varies at different camping grounds). You can find camping grounds and their facilities listed here .

All of my accommodation guides are listed below.

• Launceston Accommodation
• Tamar Valley Accommodation
• Derby Accommodation
• St Helens Accommodation
• Boat Harbour Accommodation
• Derwent Bridge Accommodation
• Deloraine Accommodation
• Strahan Accommodation
• Queenstown Accommodation
• East Coast Accommodation
• Sheffield Accommodation
• Maria Island Accommodation

How To Get Around Tasmania

Tasmania has limited public transport and if you want to see a lot, the best way to get around Tasmania is to drive. However, you could travel by bus if you really don’t want to drive.

1. Drive Or Hire A Car

For the best road trip around Tasmania you really need your own car. This is the best way to see a lot in a short amount of time. Attractions are generally spread apart, but the relatively small size of the state means the distances aren’t huge.

Tasmania generally has good roads and driving around is very easy with plenty of parking available. Traffic isn’t a big problem even in Hobart (at least outside peak hour), especially compared to other capital cities in Australia.

Click here to read my full guide specifically about driving in Tasmania and how it differs to elsewhere.

As mentioned above, you can either take your own car over on the boat or hire a car from either Launceston or Hobart Airport. Major companies operate here as well as some great local operators. You can book ahead or hire one upon arriving at the airport. Note it can be expensive to hire a car especially during the peak season and they do run out of cars so book as soon as you can.

I recommend you book through Bargain Car Rentals . This Tasmanian car rental company has some great deals and availability. Even better is if you use the code: TASEXPLORE you save 5%

Simply click here.

Then after you enter the dates and location, enter: TASEXPLORE for the “Discount Code”.

They are located in both Hobart and Launceston.

You can also find other car hire options here .

Hiring a van or campervan is also a popular way to see the state. These come with different sleeper capacities (anywhere from 2 to 6), amenities like kitchens and sometimes bathrooms, TV’s and other conveniences. You will need somewhere to park it. Your options include a campground in one of the national parks or a caravan park.

If you can’t or don’t want to drive you could get around some of Tasmania by bus. This is the only real form of public transport in Tasmania. Note buses don’t run often between towns and this really isn’t an ideal way to visit the state.

Hobart Airport has a Skybus connecting Hobart with Hobart Airport ( more details here ).

Metro buses operate around Hobart, Launceston and Burnie and use a prepaid card called a GreenCard.

For longer distances and between towns, there are many different operators depending on where you are going.

TassieLink offers the most comprehensive services with routes from Hobart to the East Coast and Tasman Peninsula.

The Redline bus operates services between Hobart and Launceston.

TassieLink and the Mersey Link Bus Service operate services in the North West of the state.

Visiting specific attractions like Cradle Mountain and Port Arthur is best done as part of a tour (discussed below).

3. Taxi And Ride Sharing Apps

Taxis also operate throughout Tasmania as well as Uber and Ola in Hobart and Launceston. These are suitable for shorter trips like getting to and from the airport but as in other cities are much more expensive for longer distances (and sometimes difficult to organise). We only recommended using them for short distances or when another option is unavailable.

Another option for getting around Tasmania if you don’t want to drive is to travel as part of a tour group. There are Tasmania tours you can do which take you to the top attractions around the state.

You’ll have less flexibility to stop and see attractions outside the scheduled tour, but this may be more suitable for people who have a good idea of what they want to do. This is discussed more below.

Click here to check out Tasmanian day tours and attraction prices now.

Planning Tasmania Tours

Tours in Tasmania are a good option for visiting specific attractions if you don’t want to drive, or for your entire trip if you don’t want to plan a trip around Tasmania and instead would like it organised for you.

There are many tour groups operating in Tasmania and it really depends what you want to do, what your budget is and how long you have.

For tours around the state, Intrepid Travel ( click here for more info ) offers good tours to suit different budgets and interests, with tours of the east and west of the state.

Under Down Under also offers tours to attractions like Port Arthur and Mount Wellington, tours around the state of different durations both to the east and west and also a special central plateau tour.

Adventure Tours also offers tours around Tasmania for different budgets.

For specific attractions, there are companies like Experience Oz who operate a return shuttle bus to Port Arthur ( click here ). You can take the kunanyi Mt Wellington Explorer bus to the top of Mt Wellington. MONA offers shuttle bus or cruises from Hobart. You can visit Cradle Mountain from Launceston with this tour .

Experience Oz lists loads of day tours including attractions like Bruny Island as well as multi day tours around the state.

If you want to do something like the Overland Track (a walk through Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park), you can do this as part of a tour with Tasmania Expeditions . This is a 6 day trek with meals and camping gear included.

What To Pack For Your Trip To Tasmania

If there’s one essential item for your trip to Tasmania, it’s a warm jacket or coat.

Although most parts of Tasmania aren’t freezing cold (even in winter), there can be temperature variations throughout the day. On hot summer days the weather might reach 25-30 degrees Celsius, but it may only stay there for an hour or two and dip quite a bit.

Even in summer you may find yourself wearing shorts and a t-shirt in the middle of the day and needing to rug up towards the end of the day.

Sunscreen and a hat are recommended everywhere, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors exploring the national parks. You can get burnt in Tasmania even on cool days and the sun is noticeably harsher than in the rest of Australia.

In addition to the clothes you’ll need for your journey, you might want to consider bringing the following:

• Sunscreen and hat
• Umbrella, warm jacket and a raincoat (more essential if you’re visiting the west of the state)
• Lots of layers – it can be boiling hot one moment in the sun then cold as a harsh wind comes in
• Swim wear if you’re visiting during warmer months
• Good walking shoes
• A good camera for all the stunning sites

What To Book And When

Ready to start planning your trip? This is the exciting part!

As with anywhere prices vary in peak seasons, and the prices for accommodation and hire cars can rise considerably in Tasmania.

The best way to avoid crazy price hikes is to book your flights/accommodation as far in advance as possible. This is especially recommended during school holidays. For it’s small size, Tasmania receives a lot of visitors, and shortages make it even more essential to do this.

If this isn’t an option for you, just be aware you might need to pay a bit more and may not find accommodation with your preferred venue.

You can find this information in our FREE Tasmania Road Trip Planner checklist. Click here to download it now!

6+ months in advance:

• Book flights/Spirit of Tasmania and consider getting travel insurance. Click here for best flight prices.
• Plan your itinerary around the state
• Book your accommodation
• Book your tour (if you’ll be doing a multi-day tour around the state)
• Work out how you will get around and pre-book a hire car (if needed – click here for car hire and use discount code: TASEXPLORE for 5% off or click here for best rental campervan deals and use code: explore for 5% off)

In peak period from Christmas to Easter, book all these items as far ahead as you can.

1 month in advance:

• Book your attractions and day tours ( click here )
• Purchase a National Park Pass if you’ll be visiting national parks
• Book airport transfers if needed (Hobart has a Skybus – book here )
• Work out whether you need a Telstra sim card (discussed further below)

1-3 days in advance:

• Pack for your trip!
• Have all attractions/passes either printed or readily available on your phone
• Consider booking restaurants (or you can do this as you go)

Like all Australian cities, travelling in Tasmania is not cheap. The cost is comparable to other smaller cities, although accommodation can be very expensive during peak periods.

You will first need to factor in how you’ll get to Tasmania. It’s usually more expensive to travel on the Spirit of Tasmania than to fly, but this will save you the cost of hiring a car. The cost of hiring a car depends on demand. Sometimes this can be over $100 a day, sometimes a lot less.

You can often return it to different cities without extra charge – so pick up in Launceston and return to Hobart for example. Click here for car hire options and prices .

You can also consider hiring a campervan or motorhome. LeisureRent is a Tasmanian company that specialises in car, campervan and motorhome rental. Click here to see the options and prices and make sure you use the code: explore for 5% off.

Note that at peak times, car hire can be booked out or prohibitively expensive so I recommend booking it at the same time as your flights.

The biggest expense will be your accommodation but you can find options to suit all budgets, from hostels for backpackers, budget accommodation, midrange and luxury options.

You also need to factor in the cost of attractions and travel between destinations (petrol, taxis, bus fares, tour costs etc).

A sample budget might be:

Backpacker: $75+ per day

Budget Traveller: $150+ per day

Midrange Traveller: $250 – $350+

Luxury Traveller: $400+ per day

As with anywhere the budget will depend on what you want to do and how you want to travel (for example, whether you want to eat at restaurants every night or are satisfied with something more simple).

It will also depend on how many people are in your group. It will be more expensive for solo travellers since they can’t split the cost of car hire and accommodation.

Travelling Tasmania With Kids

There are a few places easier to visit with kids than Tasmania. The relaxed atmosphere makes a family trip to Tasmania perfect for the whole family, and the small size of the state means attractions are never too far apart. There’s also plenty of things to do in Tasmania with kids .

It really is the perfect place in Australia for a family road trip thanks to these shorter distances and plenty of variety.

Some of the places we’ve visited with kids are below.

• Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
• Richmond Gaol
• Launceston With Kids
• Seahorse World
• Platypus House
• Low Head Penguins
• Woolmers Estate
• Marakoopa Cave
• Tasmazia & The Village Of Lower Crackpot 

You can also find many other options in our full list of things to do in Tasmania with kids here .

Other Things To Note

• Because of Covid many venues require you to book ahead. Therefore it’s worth reading through our itineraries and having a good idea of what you want to do before you visit.
• Internet and mobile reception are generally fine in larger cities but can be choppy in smaller towns and totally unavailable in the national parks. Telstra has the most coverage in the state and it might be worth getting a Telstra sim if you need mobile/data access at most times. I am with Vodafone and it’s very painful travelling around Tasmania with them if you like to have data access.

Final Words

Tasmania is a fabulous place to visit and whatever you plan, I’m sure you’ll have a great time! Keep looking through Tasmania Explorer for guides for everything you need to know.

For more planning guides, click here . You can also buy our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here.

Related posts:

By Shan Hutchinson

Shan grew up in Tasmania, moved away and then came back with her family twenty years later. She loves re-discovering her home state and sharing it with you here.

10-Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Your 'essential' self-drive tasmania holiday.

This self drive Tasmania 10-days itinerary is what I like to call the ‘Essential’ Tasmania road trip.

Cradle Mountain, Bay of Fires, Freycinet…it covers Tassie’s best natural attractions in less than two weeks. So if 10 days in Tasmania is all you have, this is your perfect road trip itinerary!

This page contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). Read my full disclosure policy  here .

Day 1 – Hobart to Strahan (via Mt Field)

Day 2 – Strahan

Day 3 – Strahan to Cradle Mountain

Day 4 – Cradle Mountain

Day 5 – Cradle Mountain to Launceston (via Stanley)

Day 6 – Launceston to Bay of Fires (via Tamar Valley)

Day 7 – Bay of Fires to Freycinet

Day 8 – Freycinet to Port Arthur

Day 9 – Port Arthur to Hobart (via Richmond)

Day 10 – Hobart

Self-drive Tasmania Itinerary (10 days)

Don’t worry if you have less than two weeks for your Tasmania itinerary. 10 days is plenty of time to see its iconic attractions, and a road trip is the best way to get around the island.

But there are so many things to see and do in Tasmania that you might be wondering where to start? How long to take? What are the ‘must see’ attractions in Tasmania?

To keep things simple I’ve created this easy-to-follow 10-day Tasmania itinerary for the best road trip.

It doesn’t matter if you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with your family of five – this itinerary has you covered. A range of budgets is included as well, so you can choose your accommodation to fit your preferred style of travel.

With this  self-drive Tasmania (10 days) itinerary there is something for everyone, no matter whether this is your first ever road trip, or your fiftieth!

The itinerary can be shortened to  7-days , or lengthened to 14-days or more – and I also include alternative route options to reduce your driving time and maximise sight-seeing opportunities.

Read More: Tasmania Car Hire Comparison

Read More: Tasmania Campervan Rental Comparison

Best of all?

As with all the road trip planning information on the Lap of Tasmania website, it’s completely free!

Day 1: Hobart to Strahan (via Mt Field)

Note : This is one of the longer days on the road, so I recommend starting as early as possible.

• Explore New Norfolk – St Matthews church, Bush Inn and Drill Hall Emporium
• Salmon Ponds
• Russell Falls (Mt Field)
• Wall in the Wilderness – OR – Lake St Clair
• Drive the ’99 Bends’ between Derwent Bridge and Queenstown
• Franklin River Nature Trail – OR – Nelson Falls Nature trail
• Iron Blow Lookout (Queenstown)
• Budget – Strahan Village (Strahan)
• Bed and Breakfast – Harrison House B&B (Strahan)
• Luxe – Wheelhouse Apartments (Strahan)
• Camping – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat (Strahan)

🥂 Special Offer - Harrison House B&B

Book the ‘Bed, Breakfast & Boat’ package with Harrison House B&B, and when you mention the Lap of Tasmania you will also receive your choice of either:

V alid for direct bookings only.

Strahan is a small town with limited late night dining options – especially on a Sunday.

View 42 (all week), Hamers Bar & Bistro (all week), and Risby Cove  (Wed-Sun) are your three best options, but make sure you arrive before 8:30pm. Regatta Point Tavern is also a good option, however they are only open from 6-8pm for dinner (all week).

For other venues around town try to arrive before 6:30pm.

Day 2: Strahan

• Macquarie Harbour Cruise  – Promo Code : LAPOFTAS for 10% OFF
• Ocean Beach
• Henty Dunes
• Strahan – The Ship That Never Was

🗺️ Want more time on the West Coast? Queenstown is fantastic!

Queenstown is one of the most fascinating towns you will find anywhere in Australia.

Stay an extra night or two on your way to/from Strahan and discover its emerging arts scene and stark landscapes with a couple of nights at historic Penghana B&B ( read my review ). 

Many road trippers tell me that the West Coast Wilderness Railway is at its best when you start from the Queenstown end as well! 

Day 3: Strahan to Cradle Mountain

• ‘River and Rainforest’ Wilderness Railway Tour
• Zeehan – Spray Tunnel (if time allows)
• Vale of Belvoir Lookout
• Cradle Mountain Village – Explore short walks around the interpretation centre
• Best of the Best – Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village –  Promo Code:  LAPOFTAS for 10 % OFF
• Camping – Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Budget  – Cradle Mountain Highlanders  
• Luxe – Cradle Mountain Lodge

Read More: Cradle Mountain Accommodation – 6 Amazing Places to Stay

Day 4: Cradle Mountain

• Option 1: Dove Lake loop walk
• Option 2: Cradle Canyons Tour (summer)
• Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery
• Waldheim Alpine Spa – Spa Treatment
• Peppers Lodge – Wine and cheese tasting
• ‘After Dark’ Tassie devil feeding tour
• Best of the Best – Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village  –  Promo Code:  LAPOFTAS for 10% OFF

😍 Special Offer - Cradle Mountain Accommodation

Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Resort is my favourite accommodation at Cradle Mountain, and after reaching out to them I was so happy when Andy and the team became a Partner of the Lap of Tasmania, helping road trippers find the perfect place to stay and keeping your holiday costs as low as possible 😊

Use the LAPOFTAS code and SAVE 10% when you stay at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Resort !

Day 5: Cradle Mountain to Launceston (via Stanley and Sheffield)

Note : This is a big, fun-filled day, so try to hit the road as early as possible.

• Dove Lake Circuit walk
• Hellyer Gorge scenic drive
• The ‘Nut’ – Chairlift to the top of the ‘Nut and explore
• Coastal drive through Burnie, Penguin and Devonport
• Anvers Chocolates (Latrobe)
• See the murals at Sheffield (if time permits)
• Ashgrove Cheese / Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm / Van Diemens Land Creamery
• Hagley – Hazelbrae Hazelnuts (enjoy a picnic in their beautiful orchard!)
• Drive through the historic towns of Deloraine, Westbury and Hadspen
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hadspen –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Budget – Leisure Inn Penny Royal Apartments   (Launceston)
• Mid-Range – Kurrajong House  (Launceston)
• Modern – Hotel Verge (Launceston)
• Indulgence – Peppers Silo (Launceston)

Read More : Best Places to Stay in Launceston

 More time on the road? Less time on the road?

If you have time on your hands, an extra night in Stanley is a ‘must! The Ark Stanley is the best B&B in the region, and your wonderful host, Rhonda, is offering some special perks for Lap of Tasmania members!  ( read my review here )

Do you want to spend less time on the road, and more time enjoying the foodie options? 

Skip Stanley by driving from Cradle Mountain to Sheffield, and you’ll have an extra half-day to eat ALL the cheese, chocolates, icecream, berries and hazelnuts that you can handle 😂

Day 6: Launceston to Bay of Fires (via the Tamar Valley)

• Cataract Gorge (Launceston) – OR – Tamar Wetlands Walk
• Tamar Valley Wineries (after 11am) – Moores Hill, Small Wonder
• Bridestowe Lavender Farm (allow an extra 40mins drive time)
• ‘Tin Dragon’ Trail – See the historic towns of Branxholm, Derby and Weldborough
• Pyengana – Tastings or afternoon tea at Pyengana Dairy Farm Gate Cafe or the Pub in the Paddock – OR – St Columba Falls
• Mountain bikers will want at least half a day to ride the world-class trails of ‘Blue Derby’
• Camping – Big4 St Helens Holiday Park (St Helens)
• Budget – Queechy Motel   (St Helens)
• Relaxing B&B – Beaumaris Beach Guest House  (Beaumaris Beach)
• Indulgence – Sea Eagle Cottage (Binalong Bay)

🎉 Special Offer - Beaumaris Beach Guest House

Use my LAPOFTAS code when booking your beach escape at Beaumaris Beach Guest House and receive 5% OFF all room rates !

Valid for direct bookings only , and not available in combination with other offers.

Day 7: Bay of Fires to Coles Bay (Freycinet)

• Explore the Bay of Fires beaches, dunes and coves north of Binalong Bay
• Tastings at Ironhouse Brewery (Four Mile Creek) – OR – Walk to Apsley River Waterhole (Bicheno)
• See the Bicheno blowhole (Bicheno)
• Freycinet Marine Farm (near Coles Bay)
• Friendly Beaches (near Coles Bay)
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse
• Camping – Big4 Iluka on Freycinet (Coles Bay)
• Great Value B&B – Freycinet Waters B&B   (Swansea – 40mins from Coles Bay)
• Indulgence – Freycinet Lodge  (Coles Bay)
• Ultimate Luxury – Picnic Island (Coles Bay)

🌞 Special Offer - Freycinet Waters B&B

Mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your cosy seaside retreat at Freycinet Waters and receive:

Day 8: Coles Bay (Freycinet) to Port Arthur

• Walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout
• East Coast Wineries – Devil’s Corner, Spring Vale and Milton vineyards
• See the bizarre Spiky Bridge (Swansea)

🌊 Maria Island Cruises - 10% OFF

Located halfway between Freycinet and the Tasman Peninsula, Maria Island is my favourite place in Tasmania, and it is an absolute ‘must’ if you can squeeze it into your itinerary!

Let the wonderful crew at  Maria Island Cruises   take care of you as you enjoy one of their two cruise/walk combo tours departing from Triabunna.

Both tours provide the opportunity to spend time on the island exploring by foot, but you also get the choice of either a full circumnavigation of the island, or a cruise to the stunning Ile des Phoques.

Use my  LAPOFTAS  code and receive  10% OFF  your cruise!

Valid for direct bookings only.

• Pirate’s Bay Lookout
• Tessellated Pavement – OR – Officer’s Quarters Museum (Eaglehawk Neck)
• Tasman Arch
• Devil’s Kitchen
• Remarkable Cave
• Port Arthur Ghost Tour
• Camping – NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park   (Port Arthur)
• Budget – Port Arthur Villas (Port Arthur)
• Relaxing Bed and Breakfast – Storm Bay B&B (White Beach)
• Indulgence – Stewarts Bay Lodge (Port Arthur)

🌞 Special Offer - Storm Bay B&B

Use my LAPOFTAS code online, or mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your relaxing escape at  Storm Bay B&B on the beautiful Tasman Peninsula and receive:

• 10% OFF for stays of 2-nights or longer

Valid for direct bookings only. Some blockout dates may apply. Not applicable to tours booked through Storm Bay B&B.

Day 9: Port Arthur to Hobart (via Richmond)

• Port Arthur Historic Site ( buy your tickets )
• Richmond Village – See St John Church, Richmond Bridge, Main Street, Richmond Gaol, and the Richmond Wine Wall
• Wicked Cheese
• Pooley Wines – OR – Coal River Farm
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hobart –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Couples B&B (south side) –  Waterview Gardens B&B  (Margate)
• Couples B&B (east side) –  Oceana B&B  (Howrah)
• Budget (Families) – Bay Hotel Apartments   (Hobart)
• Budget (Couples) – Alabama Hotel  (Hobart)
• Budget (Historic) – Edinburgh Gallery (Hobart)
• Mid-Range – RACV/RACT Hotel Apartments (Hobart)
• Indulgence – MACq 01 (Hobart)
• Ultimate Luxury – MONA Pavilions (Hobart)

Read More : Best Places to Stay in Hobart

🎉 Oceana B&B (Hobart) - 10% OFF

Use my LAPOFTAS code when booking your relaxing stay at  Oceana B&B  on Hobart’s sunny eastern shore and receive 10% OFF your booking!

Day 10: Hobart

• Mt Wellington Summit
• Salamanca Market (Saturday) – OR – Farm Gate Market (Sunday)
• Hobart Waterfront – Salamanca, Brooke Street Pier
• Lark Distillery
• Visit Beauty and the Bees
• Kelly’s Steps
• Walk to Battery Point and explore
• Alternative Option – Hobart’s Hop-on Hop-off Bus
• MONA Ferry – Splurge and get a ‘Posh Pit’ ticket!
• Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)
• Sunset drinks at The Glass House

🌞 Special Offer - Waterview Gardens B&B

Mention the  Lap of Tasmania  when booking your delightful Hobart getaway at  Waterview Gardens B&B  and receive:

• 10% OFF  your booking; and
• FREE bottle of bubbles 🍾 – OR –  cheese platter 🧀 upon arrival!

Plan your self-drive Tasmania road trip

I hope you have found my self-drive Tasmania (10 days) road trip itinerary useful in planning your holiday!

To put it all together just takes 5 simple steps…

• Learn more about the Lap of Tasmania,  the best time to visit and places to see
• Plan your road trip itinerary (right here!)
• Book your flight or ferry to Tasmania
• Book your hire car or campervan
• Book your accommodation

Happy travels, Andrew.

ps. If this is your first time visiting Tasmania, or you are a bit nervous about planning your road trip, then you will love my eBook – “ How to Plan Your Tasmania Road Trip “. It  takes you through the whole process in easy-to-follow steps and also includes a free Holiday Planner that you can use for Tasmania and any other holiday you take in the future!

Travel planning resources

Tasmania’s remote location means there are internet ‘black spots’ across the island. 

A hard copy travel guide or map is the perfect backup, and I love the range from Lonely Planet.

Guide to Tasmania

Map of tasmania, road trip guide.

Andrew Strikis

We acknowledge and pay respect to the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community as the traditional owners  and continuing custodians  of  this island lutruwita (Tasmania).

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Geelong to Devonport (GEX to DPO)

Devonport to geelong (dpo to gex).

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Road Trip - Family Explorer

This seven-day journey takes in great food, plenty of nature and adventures for the big and small – something for everyone in the car, in other words.

DAY 1 - DEVONPORT TO CRADLE MOUNTAIN

What better way to tee off a family road trip than with a round of mini golf? After disembarking in Devonport, head to the town’s 18-hole mini golf course, a beautifully landscaped spot on the banks of the Mersey River (the perfect perch to triumph at a family golfing battle, and establish bragging rights for the coming week).

Next stop is the pretty rural settlement of Sheffield, also known as Tasmania’s ‘Town of Murals’: the buildings here are covered with artworks that turn the streets into an outdoor gallery. Grab a drink and wander the streets, then continue the art theme at nearby Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery, a 12-room space on the edge of the World Heritage Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Rooms are equipped for kids to get creative and play alongside exhibitions on photography, contemporary Tasmanian art and iconic local films.

The gallery is part of Cradle Mountain Hotel, where you’re checking in for the night – have lunch at on-site Altitude restaurant before an afternoon nap. Tonight, you’ll be seeing what the local wildlife gets up to after dark as you embark on a night-time animal spotting tour, so it’s a good idea to keep your family’s energy levels up.

Overnight at Cradle Mountain Hotel.

Sheffield (Photo: Heidi Linehan)

DAY 2 - CRADLE MOUNTAIN TO CAMPBELL TOWN

Exploring Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park can be as easy or as hard as you like. A very family-friendly option to start the day is the Enchanted Walk, a track that takes in wombat burrows, a cascading creek and old-growth rainforest in a 20-minute loop.

Next up is a stop at Tasmazia and the Village of Lower Crackpot, a quirky adventure playground that is kid heaven thanks to the eight mazes and pint-sized model village. From Promised Land (Lower Crackpot’s real-life location), drive on to Mole Creek and take an interactive tour at Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary to learn all about quolls, wombats, wedge-tailed eagles and more, culminating in a feeding session with Tasmanian devils.

Head to historic Campbell Town for a kid-friendly dinner at one of the local eateries, and soak up some heritage charm.

Overnight at Campbell Town.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park (Photo: Heidi Linehan)

DAY 3 - CAMPBELL TOWN TO COLES BAY

Head over to connect with the awesome Great Eastern Drive, which winds right up the state’s beautiful east coast, and start your day with a swim at Bicheno. This family-friendly seaside town is popular for its sandy beaches and sunshine, and is a summer holiday favourite among locals. After a dip, check out East Coast Natureworld on the outskirts of town – across 60 hectares of parkland and lagoons you’ll find kangaroos, wombats, Tasmanian devils, peacocks and more. Explore walk-through aviaries and an interactive Tassie devil education centre called Devil World, before venturing out to find these creatures in the wild.

A 45-minute drive away, Douglas-Apsley National Park is the perfect union of deep river gorges, waterfalls and eucalypt forest, and is a great place to spot rare Tasmanian plants and animals; there is also a popular short walk on offer here, to popular Apsley Waterhole, where you can swim in the warmer months. 

After a dose of fresh Tasmanian air, make your way to nearby Coles Bay, home to several kid-friendly accommodation spots close to Wineglass Bay.

Overnight at Coles Bay.

Apsley River Waterhole and Gorge (Photo:  Tourism Tasmania & Pete Harmsen)

DAY 4 - COLES BAY TO LAUNCESTON

The town of Coles Bay is the ideal base for exploring Freycinet National Park, with its pretty-in-pink cliffs, sparkling water and some of the whitest sand in the world. Take the 40-minute uphill walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout; from here, you can either turn back or head down over the hill’s crest to Wineglass Bay itself (another 40 minutes). If the kids start grizzling, promise them pancakes – just north of Freycinet, Mount Elephant Pancakes can provide crepes that will keep them happy all the way to your next stop.

A family-run wildlife enclosure, Tasmania Zoo is home to more than 100 rare, exotic and native species and offers oodles of animal encounters for children (and overgrown kids, too). Get close to alligators, meerkats and even capybaras, a kind of giant Southern American rodent that is cuter than it sounds.

Your last stop of the day is Tasmania’s second city, the food-lover’s town of Launceston. Enjoy a low-key dinner at one of the many kid-friendly eateries in the area: try Jailhouse Grill for a hearty steak, Rockin’ Hot Pizza for some yummy Italian, or Riverside Hotel Motel for a simple, satisfying pub meal – they have a kid’s play area, too.

Overnight at Launceston.

Tasmania Zoo (Photo: Tasmania Zoo)

DAY 5 - LAUNCESTON

A riverside city home to stunning parks and gardens as well as a thriving foodie scene, Launceston has plenty to offer all ages. The kids will probably want to start with the Cataract Gorge Scenic Chairlift, which travels almost 500 metres over the top of Cataract Gorge Reserve on the outskirts of town, offering gob-smacking views over bush and cliffs from a seat just high enough to be thrilling.

After a reviving snack at on-site Basin Café, head to the Planetarium at the Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery – it’s a genuinely fascinating place, where you can sit down to watch one of several National Geographic films projected onto the planetarium’s dome, on topics such as asteroids, black holes and aliens.

Enjoy an early dinner in town then prepare for otherworldly activities as you embark on a spooky Launceston City Ghost Tour. Kids over 10 are welcome on the main tour, but there’s also a special experience just for kids.  

Cataract Gorge (Photo: Cam Blake)

DAY 6 - LAUNCESTON TO BEAUTY POINT

It’s all action at the Hollybank Treetops Adventure in Underwood, where zipline tours and ropes courses will have adventurous little legs (and longer legs) swinging through the forest canopy, balancing on wobbly bridges and crawling through nets. The grounded among us can motor around Hollybank Forest on a Segway, or simply enjoy some down time wandering through the beautiful old growth forest.

From here, it’s a 50-minute drive to Beauty Point in the Tamar Valley. In town, Seahorse World is ostensibly dedicated to seahorse breeding and education – you can hold a mini seahorse in the palm of your hand, if you wish – but it’s also a good spot to meet some of Tasmania’s other kooky ocean dwellers, including giant crabs, cowfish and Port Jackson sharks.

Then it’s off to the wildlife wonderland of Narawntapu National Park, a ‘miniature Serengeti’ on the coast, where native animals are virtually everywhere you look. Watch birds from a hide and spot wallabies, kangaroos and Tasmanian devils, which wander onto the grasslands in the evening. In the unlikely event that you’re having trouble seeing any wildlife, head to the park’s visitor centre at Springlawn – it’s got some great interactive resources.

Overnight at Beauty Point.

Seahorse World (Photo: Eugene Hyland)

DAY 7 - BEAUTY POINT TO DEVONPORT

You won’t need to nag the kids to get out of bed when breakfast at Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm Café is on the agenda – French toast with chocolate and raspberries is a pretty good way to start the final day of your road trip. Run off the sugar at The Tasmanian Arboretum, one of Australia’s loveliest gardens, where lakes, bridges, walkways and secret nooks are spread over 66 hectares.

Next, near Devonport, enjoy a walk up to the candy cane-striped Mersey Bluff Lighthouse and take in a classic view of Tasmania’s rugged coastline, or head to the sweetly preserved collection of heritage trains at the Don River Railway museum. You can take a vintage train ride (either diesel or steam) along the banks of the river while reflecting on your week of fun, before you board  Spirit of Tasmania  and head home. 

Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm (Photo: Eugene Hyland)

Foodie Fanatic

Wine Taster

Culture Buff

Thrill Seeker

Nature Lover

Family Explorer

Tasmania Road Trip – 2 Week Tasmania Itinerary

A few years ago, we took a trip to Hobart, our first visit to Tasmania. We loved it, and after an incredible weekend, we vowed to return to explore more of the island.  COVID-19 delayed our plans a little, but we finally embarked on a Tasmania road trip this year and have put together what we think is the perfect Tasmania itinerary.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and purchase something I’ve recommended I may earn a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay but helps me to run this site. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

Getting to Tasmania

There are three main entry points onto the island; Hobart – the capital city with an international airport, Launceston – with a domestic airport and Devonport – which has a ferry terminal connecting to Melbourne.

Book flights to Tasmania.

This 14 day Tasmanian road trip starts and ends in Hobart, but you can easily do the same itinerary starting in Launceston or Devonport. It’s fairly fast-paced, with two nights at each stop. If you prefer to take things slower, I recommend adding an extra night at each.

• Day 1 Hobart
• Day 2 Hobart and Port Arthur
• Day 3 Hobart to Coles Bay 
• Day 4 Freycinet National Park
• Day 5 Coles Bay to The Bay of Fires
• Day 6 The Bay of Fires
• Day 7 The Bay of Fires to Launceston
• Day 8 Launceston
• Day 9 Launceston to Stanley
• Day 10 Stanley
• Day 11 Stanley to Cradle Mountain
• Day 12 Cradle Mountain
• Day 13 Cradle Mountain to Hobart
• Day 14 Hobart

Camper, Camping or Car?

We travelled around Tasmania by car for our road trip and stayed in hotels at each destination. I loved this as we had some lovely Tassie accommodation and it was really relaxing at each place. However, Tasmania is also the perfect destination for a camping or campervan road trip, and there are lots of great scenic spots to pitch a tent or park up your motorhome. With all options, I highly recommend booking in advance, especially if you’re travelling at a peak period (summer, school holidays or festivals).

Hire a car in Tasmania.

Hobart – Day 1

Arriving in Hobart, pick up a rental car (or camper) and check into your accommodation for the night. If you have an early flight, then make the most of the rest of the day in Hobart. There is a lot do to here, and you’ll have time on the way back to explore too, but highlights include:

• MONA – Museum of Old and New Art
• Salamanca Market
• Mount Wellington
• Fantastic restaurants and bars

Read our guide to Hobart here.

Where to Stay in Hobart

Hobart has lots of great accommodation from holiday rentals to lovely hotels.

For luxury book the MACq 01 Hotel right on the waterfront, with each room telling a story of a Tasmanian character.

For something midrange, Customs House Hotel has an unbeatable location in a historic pub.

And for budget, check out the excellent Central Hobart YHA , which has dorms and private rooms.

Find hotels in Hobart

Hobart to Port Arthur (and back) – Day 2 – 1 hour 20 / 94km each way

The next day, get up early and head out of the city down the Tasman Peninsula to Port Arthur Historic Site. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a fascinating place to learn about the early British settlers and prisoners in Tasmania. On the way, there are plenty of great places to stop including:

• The Tessellated Pavement
• Port Arthur Lavender Farm

You can either spend the night in Port Arthur or make your way back to Hobart for the night (this way you don’t have to change hotels which is usually my preference!)

Hobart to Coles Bay – Day 3 – 2.5 hours / 198km

A longer drive today to get to Coles Bay, the gateway to Freycinet National Park. Stop at Orford to admire the beautiful coastal scenery. If you have lots of time, you can take the 30 minute ferry over to Maria Island, a great place to spot wildlife including wombats and Tasmanian devils

Stop at Devil’s Corner Cellar Door for some wine tasting and food. It’s a gorgeous spot with scenic countryside views. Closer to Coles Bay is Freycinet Marine Farm where you can sample local oysters and an array of other delicious seafood.

Where to stay in Coles Bay

Coles Bay is a great spot for campers, with almost beachside camping and camper pitches available. The majority of accommodation here is holiday rentals but there are a few high-end options too.

For Luxury, book Freycinet Lodge , one of the few accommodations inside Freycinet National Park, with secluded cabins – some with sea views and outside baths – and an excellent restaurant.

For mid-range, check out Freycinet Resort , offering villas with gorgeous views of the Friendly Beaches, Great Oyster Bay and the Tasman Sea.

For budget, BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet has camping and holiday cabins. We stayed here and it’s a great location with easy access to the bars and restaurants of Coles Bay and a short drive to the national park.

Find hotels in Coles Bay

Freycinet National Park  – Day 4

Wake up early and make your way into Freycinet National Park. You need a national park pass to enter, but as you’ll be visiting Cradle Mountain National Park later in the trip, it’s worth buying a holiday pass for $82.40 per vehicle, which is valid for 2 months.

There are several walks you can do within the park, most of which take in a lookout over the stunning Wineglass Bay. If you fancy a short and leisurely stroll, then the Wineglass Bay Lookout Walk is a good choice. It’s a 2.6km grade 3 return walk. You don’t need a high level of fitness, but there are some steep sections. You will be rewarded with this view:

If you want to visit Wineglass Bay , then from the lookout, continue down the stairs towards the beach. This extended grade 3 walk is 6km return. Once at the bay, you can have a swim (if it’s warm enough) or walk the full length of the beach. I recommend bringing a packed lunch and enjoying it here.

You can also return by a different, longer route, via Hazards Beach which increases the total walk to a grade 4 11km circuit.

For the best views of Wineglass Bay, experienced hikers can take the Mount Amos walk . This is a very steep grade 4 3.6km return walk (and sometimes scramble) up Mount Amos, where you will have a panoramic view of the bay and peninsula.

If you don’t fancy walking, you could take a boat tour around to Wineglass Bay, although to really see the beautiful wineglass shape of the bay, it is best seen from above.

Coles Bay to The Bay of Fires – Day 5 – 2 hours 10 / 139km

Continue your drive around Tasmania by heading north. There are some lovely beaches and coastal spots to stop off on during this drive. The first stop is Bicheno, where you can grab a snack or stock up on fuel. If you fancy a surf this is a good place to do it, with lessons and board hire available. Continuing on, make sure you stop at Denison Beach for a swim (if it’s warm enough) or a walk along the long sandy beach. Seymour beach, further along, is another beautiful beach.

Where to stay in The Bay of Fires

St Helens or Binalong Bay are excellent bases to enjoy the Bay of Fires. St Helens is the largest town on Tasmania’s northeast coast. It’s a fishing hub and the state’s largest fishing port, so stay here if you want to try local seafood or take a fishing charter. Binalong Bay is smaller and marks the start of the Bay of Fires.

For luxury, The Loft @ Bay of Fires Seascape is a gorgeous beachfront apartment with ocean views.

For mid-range, Bay of fires bush Retreat has beautiful boutique glamping tents and rooms surrounded by bush close to Binalong Bay. There is a self-catering kitchen, or you opt for delicious Tasmanian Produce Platters and meals made by the in-house chefs.

For budget try BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park , which has holiday cabins and camping.

Find a hotel in the Bay of Fires

The Bay of Fires – Day 6

The Bay of Fires coastline stretches for 50km from Binalong Bay in the south to Eddystone Point in the north. This conservation area features small secluded beaches with clear blue water, forests and orange lichen-coloured boulders. Many assume that these boulders gave the area its name, but in fact, the name refers to Aboriginal fires seen along the coastline by Captain Tobias Furneaux when he sailed past in 1773.

Spend the day exploring the coastline. There are great walks, excellent fishing, and if the weather is warm enough take a dip in the crystal clear ocean. You may also be lucky enough to spot whales, seals and dolphins from the coast. Binalong Bay viewing platform offers fantastic views.

Worthwhile walks include:

• Policeman’s Point to The Gardens
• Skeleton Bay to Dora’s Point and George’s Bay

The Bay of Fires  to Launceston via Derby – Day 7 – 3 hours / 185km

This isn’t the quickest route to Launceston, but it avoids going back on yourself and also means you can visit Derby on the way. Derby is popular with mountain bikers and offers some fantastic trails through the rainforest and the nearby Blue Tier mountain range.

Even if you’re not into biking, there is plenty of reason to stop here, aside from some excellent eateries and a local brewery, it’s also home to the Lake Derby Floating Sauna. Heat up in the sauna while enjoying the views of the peaceful surroundings and then jump into the cold lake to really awaken your senses! Booking in advance is recommended.

Then continue on your Tasmanian itinerary to Launceston.

Where to stay in Launceston

I recommend staying either in the city centre or by the water, so you can easily walk to bars and restaurants.

For luxury, Stillwater Seven is a gorgeous boutique hotel with just seven rooms housed in an 1830s flour mill. It’s also home to award-winning restaurant Stillwater, so you can indulge in some delicious Tasmanian cuisine during your stay. We absolutely loved our stay here.

For mid-range, Balmoral on York has great rooms with breakfast and free WIFI included, just 100m from the CDB. We also stayed here and found it to be a really great, affordable option in the city.

For budget accommodation in Launceston, Pod I nn offers capsule accommodation fitted with reading lights, a mirror, wall lights, USB charging ports, fan ventilation and a secure locker.

Find hotels in Launceston

Launceston – Day 8

You can either spend the day in the city or take a day trip out to the Tamar Valley. Here you can visit some of Tasmania’s best wineries including Swinging Gate Vineyard and Josef Chromy Wines. If everyone on your Tassie road trip wants to sample the wine, then you can also take a tour from Launceston, so no one needs to drive.

If you’re staying in the city, go to the Cataract Gorge. Less than 30 minutes walk from the city centre or a short drive, the beautiful gorge offers walking and hiking trails, the world’s longest single-span chairlift and a swimming pool. There is a restaurant and cafe here so you can make a day of it, or otherwise just pop along for a few hours.

Another great Launceston activity is a Tamar River cruise. There are morning and afternoon departures and you’ll be treated to some delicious Tasmanian produce as you pass historical buildings, vineyards and charming riverfront communities.

Like Hobart, Launceston has lots of great restaurants. For some excellent Tasmanian steak definitely go to Black Cow Bistro, and for a fantastic curry, Spice Lounge on Seaport Boulevard is well worth a visit.

Launceston to Stanley – Day 9 –  2 hours 30 / 224km

On day 9 of your road trip around Tasmania, make your way west out of the city. The first stop is Deloraine, a quaint riverside town with an artsy vibe. Each year it hosts Australia’s biggest working craft fair in November, but it’s well worth adding to your Tasmania road trip itinerary outside of that. There are lots of galleries, quirky shops and antique stores and some excellent cafes. It’s also just lovely to sit and picnic by the river before you continue on your journey.

A short drive from Deloraine is the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm Cafe, where you can sample an array of raspberry-based goods including chocolate-covered raspberries or raspberry soda. You can also purchase fresh raspberries to take with you. Another 7 minutes in the car on your Tasmania foodie road trip and you’ll reach Ashgrove Cheese Dairy Door. This award-winning Tasmanian paddock to plate dairy has a new visitor centre, where you can sample cheesy dishes including deluxe cheese toasties, truffle fondue, a high cheese (like high tea) or buy some cheese for the road.

Continue north through Devonport and along the coast to Penguin. As the name suggests, this town is home to a penguin rookery, and if you’re lucky you may spot a few at Penguin Point around dusk. Even if you don’t, you can admire the ‘giant penguin’ – a 10-foot penguin statue on the promenade. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, you can stop in at Tasmania’s largest undercover market, with more than 200 stalls selling food and wine, woodcraft and second-hand goods.

From Penguin, continue your Tasmania driving holiday to Stanley, which takes around 1 hour and 15.

Where to stay in Stanley

Stanley is a small town, so there isn’t loads of accommodation , but there are some excellent places to stay.

For luxury accommodation in Stanley, stay at Ship Inn Stanley . This boutique hotel is housed in a historic building that served as a pub for many years and was transformed into a guesthouse in 2018. The seven historic suites are all unique and breakfast is included in the rate.

You can read my full review here.

For mid-range, Touchwood Cottages are located in the centre of town with self-catering facilities. There is also a cafe specialising in local seafood, homemade cakes and scones. Breakfast supplies are included for the first morning.

For budget, Stanley Cabin and Tourist Park has a variety of rooms located 600m from Godfreys Beach, with a shared lounge, garden, kitchen and BBQ facilities as well as a children’s playground.

Find hotels in Stanley

Stanley  – Day 10

Stanley’s most striking feature is The Nut – a volcanic plug that forms the backdrop to the town. You can take a trip up to the top via a walking path or by chair lift. Once there, you can enjoy a 45 minute loop walk with views of the town, beach, sea and out to the historic Highfield House.

The town is full of historic buildings and walking along the main street feels like stepping back in time. It was used as one of the filming locations for the movie The Light Between Two Oceans, and you’ll find pictures of the filming along Church Street and Alexander Terrace.

Stanley is a fishing town, so it’s an excellent place to sample some Tasmanian seafood, in particular, freshly caught lobster from Hursey’s Seafood. The Stanley Hotel also serves excellent pub grub and Tasmanian Food and Wine is a lovely bar that offers Tasmanian wine and whisky and local cheese platters.

Stock up on delicious local cheese, smoked salmon and other treats from the Provedore for your lunch the next day.

Stanley to Cradle Mountain – Day 11  – 2 hours 5 / 174km

Next on your Tasmanian road trip itinerary, you’ll be visiting one of the island’s most iconic spots; Cradle Mountain. To get there you need to travel back along the coast towards Burnie. Stop off along the way at Boat Harbour Beach. This is a lovely little seaside resort with a sandy beach and a few cafes.

Once you reach Burnie, you’ll travel inland and south. Stop at Guide Falls to enjoy your picnic lunch and admire the beautiful waterfalls. Then continue south to Cradle Mountain.

Where to stay in Cradle Mountain

Nearly all of the Cradle Mountain accommodation is located near the visitor centre, outside the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. So it’s easy to walk to the shuttle buses the following morning.

For luxury accommodation in Cradle Mountain stay at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge . Just outside the park entrance, the lodge features 2 restaurants and a luxury day spa. Some of the suites feature outdoor spa baths.

For midrange, Cradle Mountain Highlanders is an excellent option featuring secluded cabins surrounded by woodland. Each has a kitchen and a gas or wood fire. We loved our stay here.

For budget, stay at Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain , which has cottages and holiday cabins with cooking facilities. You can also camp here or stay in a dorm.

Find hotels in Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain – Day 12 

Head for the visitor centre, get your parks pass validated and pick up a map. There are frequent shuttle buses from the visitor centre into the national park between 8am to 6pm during the summer and 9am and 5pm. During these periods you can’t drive into the park and will need to leave your car at the visitor centre. This is a good idea anyway, as it means you can start and end your walk in different locations.

There are a number of walks you can take in the park depending on your level of fitness:

• Cradle Mountain Summit – this walk offers the best views, but you need to be fit and should be an experienced bushwalker. It’s an 8 hour return hike, Grade 5, 12.8km, 600m climb in elevation.
• Crater Lake – A 2 hour circuit, Grade3, 5.7km circuit up to the beautiful Crater Lake
• Dove Lake – 2-3 hour circuit, Grade 3, 6km circuit around Dove Lake

I recommend that you combine parts of all three hikes to see the most of the park. Get off the bus at Ronny Creek along the Overland Track, past Crater Lake and up to Marion’s Lookout. (This section is steep). The views from here are incredible. Enjoy your lunch here before walking back down to Crater Lake. At this point, take the Wombat Pool Track to Dove Lake. If you still have energy, you can then do the circuit around Dove Lake. Or if you’ve had enough for the day, you can hop back on the shuttle bus at Dove Lake.

Cradle Mountain to Hobart – Day 12  – 4 hours 15 / 320km

This is the longest leg of your Tasmania self-drive itinerary, as you need to go north to get south. As you pass Launceston, take a quick detour to Evandale for lunch at the Clarendon Arms. This is a fantastic British-style pub serving excellent food (including a delicious Sunday roast) and has a massive beer garden.

You may wish to stop again in Campbell Town, a historic town that was used as the main stopping point between Launceston and Hobart when travellers got around in horse and carts. It is full of colonial history with some impressive buildings and many antique shops.

Further on is Oatlands, one of Tasmania’s oldest settlements, with more than 150 sandstone buildings. Many of these now operate as cafes, antique stores, accommodation and attractions. There is also Callington Mill – an 1837 Lincolnshire tower mill – the only operating mill of its type in the Southern Hemisphere.

From Oatlands it’s an hour’s drive to Hobart.

See above for where to stay in Hobart.

Hobart – Day 14 

Spend the final day of your Tasmania holiday in Hobart, enjoying whichever of the activities you didn’t do the first time around.

More than Two Weeks in Tasmania?

If you have time for a longer trip, then there are a few other destinations you can add to this trip.

From Cradle Mountain, go west to the harbour-side village of Strahan, set on the edge of the World Heritage-listed Franklin–Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Take a boat cruise into the rainforest, take a trip on the West Coast Wilderness Railway or explore the wild ocean beaches. From Strahan, it takes approximately 4 hours 15 to drive to Hobart.

Find hotels in Strahan

Bruny Island

After enjoying a second stint in Hobart, travel south to Bruny Island. There are two parts of the island connected by a narrow strip called the Neck – an excellent spot for photographs. Take a boat cruise around the island, hike in South Bruny National Park, and enjoy the local produce including oysters, cheese and chocolate. Bruny Island is just over an hour’s drive from Hobart.

How many days does it take to drive around Tasmania?

It really depends on how much of the island you want to see, but to take in the main sites takes allow around 14 days to drive around Tasmania.

What is the best month to go to Tasmania?

Tasmania is a great destination to visit at any time of the year, but the best time to visit Tasmania is between December and February, in the Australian summer. This is the busiest time to visit but the weather will be warmer. Spring and Autumn are also good times to go to Tasmania, as they aren’t quite as busy but it’s still not too cold. In winter, you may be lucky enough to experience snow in Tasmania.

Is it easy to drive in Tasmania?

Tasmania is a really easy place to drive around. You can hire a car from the main airports and cities and road are well signposted and maintained. Keep an eye out for wildlife on the road, especially at dawn and dusk.

Have you been to Tasmania? We would love to hear your thoughts on this itinerary and your Tasmania travel highlights!

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Incredible Tasmania Self Drive Holidays – Itinerary Ideas

Nestled like a hidden gem in the heart of Australia’s southern shores, Tasmania beckons travellers with its breathtaking landscapes, rugged wilderness, and a captivating mix of vibrant culture and history.

A Tasmania self-drive holiday offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore this enchanting island at your own pace, immersing yourself in its rich tapestry of experiences. From windswept coastlines and ancient rainforests to charming colonial towns and lively arts scenes, Tasmania is a land of contrasts, where every twist and turn on the road unveils a new wonder.

In this comprehensive guide, we invite you to join us on an extraordinary Tasmania road trip to visit its best-kept secrets and must-visit destinations. Whether you’re an intrepid adventurer seeking adrenaline-fuelled escapades or a nature enthusiast longing to discover unique wildlife, Tassie is the place for you.

Unravel the mysteries of the island’s diverse geography as we lead you through winding coastal drives that hug the sea cliffs, venture into the heart of untamed national parks, and traverse the winding roads that thread through lush valleys and verdant countryside. Learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Tasmanian Aboriginal people and the European settlers who left an indelible mark on the land.

Driving in Tasmania also allows you to indulge your taste buds with delectable culinary experiences, relishing the freshness of locally sourced produce and world-class wines. The state’s culinary scene promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure, from seafood feasts on the waterfront to farm-to-table delights in quaint villages.

During this detailed guide to Tasmania, we’ll provide valuable insights on planning the perfect Tasmania self-drive itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your time on the island state. If you’re a solo explorer, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a family looking to create lifelong memories, a self-drive holiday promises an experience like no other.

Why Self-Drive Tasmania

How long do i need for a tasmania self-drive holiday, best time of year for a tasmania self-drive holiday, how to get to tasmania, freycinet national park and wineglass bay, cradle mountain-lake st clair national park, bay of fires, port arthur historic site, bruny island, launceston and cataract gorge, tamar valley wine region, more tips for a tasmania self-drive holiday.

A Tasmania self-drive holiday is not just another travel option; it’s an extraordinary and liberating experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the very essence of this enchanting island. From majestic mountains to pristine coastlines and ancient forests, Tasmania’s diverse landscapes beg to be explored on your terms.

Here’s why a self-drive Tasmania adventure should be at the top of your travel bucket list:

1. Unleash the Spirit of Adventure

Tasmania is a haven for adventurous souls, and a self-drive holiday lets you embrace the spirit of exploration like never before.

Venture into remote corners and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are inaccessible by public transportation.

Discover hidden waterfalls, secret beaches, and breathtaking lookouts as you navigate winding and scenic roads.

2. Flexibility and Freedom

Bid farewell to strict itineraries and rigid schedules. With a Tasmania driving holiday, you completely control your journey.

Extend your stay in places you love, skip those that don’t resonate, and make spontaneous detours whenever something catches your eye. The flexibility allows you to savour every moment without feeling rushed.

3. Intimate Encounters with Nature

Tasmania is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, and a self-drive holiday ensures you have up-close and personal encounters with its diverse flora and fauna.

Pull over to observe curious wildlife, hike through ancient rainforests, or breathe in the salty air from a clifftop viewpoint.

4. Curate Your Own Experience

Self-drive holidays in Tasmania allow you to curate your own travel experiences. As you steer your way through the island state’s stunning landscapes, you get to tailor your trip to your specific interests.

Why not explore the island’s rich history by venturing into heritage towns and artistic enclaves? Alternatively, embark on gourmet trails to indulge in the local culinary delights.

5. Embrace Serendipity

Some of the best travel memories are often born out of serendipitous encounters. While driving in Tasmania, you can stumble upon hidden gems, engage with locals, and discover authentic experiences that might not be part of conventional tourist itineraries.

6. Scenic Drives Like No Other

Tasmania boasts some of the world’s most scenic drives, including the iconic Great Eastern Drive, the winding roads of Cradle Mountain, and the coastal charm of the Great Ocean Drive.

Each drive offers unparalleled views and a sense of awe that stays with you long after the journey ends.

7. Comfort and Control

During your Tasmania driving holiday, your vehicle becomes your sanctuary, providing the comfort and familiarity of home while embarking on an adventure.

You can control your environment, music, and pace, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable trip.

8. Perfect for Solo Explorers, Couples, and Families

Whether you’re travelling solo, with your partner, or as a family, a Tasmania self-drive holiday caters to all.

It’s an ideal way to bond with loved ones, create unforgettable memories, and embark on a journey of discovery together.

Ultimately, a Tasmania road trip is an invitation to embrace the unknown, relish the freedom of the open road, and unravel hidden wonders that lie off the tourist maps.

The ideal duration for a Tasmania self-drive holiday largely depends on your interests, the places you want to explore, and the pace you prefer to travel. Tasmania may be a relatively small island state, but it offers various attractions and experiences that can quickly fill up your itinerary. 

If you have limited time but want a taste of Tasmania’s major highlights, a minimum of five to seven days is required. This time will allow you to cover key attractions like Hobart, Port Arthur, Freycinet National Park, Launceston, and Cradle Mountain. While it might feel rushed, it at least provides a glimpse into Tasmania’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

For a more well-rounded experience, consider dedicating 10 to 14 days to your Tasmania self-drive itinerary. This duration allows you to explore the places mentioned above in greater depth and venture into more remote regions. You can add destinations like the Tamar Valley wine region, Bruny Island, Bay of Fires, and Mount Field National Park to your itinerary, ensuring a more immersive experience.

Should you truly want to savour Tasmania’s wonders, consider a month or even more extended trip. With this timeframe, you can venture to less-visited parts of the island, indulge in multi-day hikes, and take time to soak in the beauty of each destination. Additionally, you can explore the west coast, visit the Southwest National Park , go further north to Stanley, and even include a visit to King Island or Flinders Island for a true off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Ultimately, the more time you can dedicate to your Holidays in Tasmania, the better, as it allows you to truly immerse yourself in the island’s unique charm and absorb all it has to offer. Plan your itinerary wisely, allowing for a mix of iconic attractions and off-the-beaten-path discoveries, and you’re sure to have a memorable and fulfilling journey.

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The best time of year for a Tasmania self-drive holiday depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. The island state’s climate and natural attractions vary throughout the year, so consider that when planning your Tasmania self-drive itinerary.

Summer (December to February) is the peak tourist season, and during this time, the weather is generally pleasant, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 17°C to 23°C. This season is perfect for exploring Tasmania’s stunning coastlines, enjoying water activities, and taking scenic drives with clear blue skies. Popular destinations such as Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay are best experienced during summer, offering ideal hiking and beach outings conditions.

The autumn months of March to May are a fantastic time to visit Tasmania as the crowds thin out and the landscapes transform into a picturesque tapestry of red, gold and orange hues. Congruently, temperatures remain comfortable, ranging from 10°C to 20°C. During this season, the Tamar Valley wine region is particularly charming, with the vineyards adorned in autumn colours. It’s also an excellent time to indulge in wine tasting and local produce.

Winter in Tasmania is a quieter time for tourism, and while it can get cold, it offers unique experiences for travellers who enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. Average temperatures range from 3°C to 11°C, and in higher elevations and mountainous areas, it can get even colder, with the possibility of snowfall. So, you will need to wrap up warm! However, winter is the best time to visit Cradle Mountain, enjoy snow activities, and witness the captivating Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) if you’re lucky.

Arguably the most delightful time to visit Tasmania is the spring months of September to November, as the island comes alive with blooming flowers and rejuvenated landscapes. Temperatures hover between 8°C to 17°C, and the days get longer. The season is also ideal for nature enthusiasts who want to witness wildflowers, including the famous Tasmanian blue gum, and explore the island’s national parks in fresh, green glory.

For those planning holidays in Tasmania, getting to the Apple Isle is relatively easy, and several transportation options are available, depending on your location.

Tasmania is an island located off the southern coast of Australia. So, for most people, the quickest and most convenient way to get to Tasmania is by flying to one of its major airports: Hobart International Airport (HBA) or Launceston Airport (LST).

Both airports have regular domestic flights connecting them to major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne , Brisbane , and Adelaide . Several airlines operate frequent daily flights, including Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar.

Some tour operators offer fly-drive packages, including hiring a vehicle when you get to Hobart or Launceston. Additionally, if you have flown independently, you will find most of the major car rental companies have offices at those airports, including Budget, Hertz and Avis.

If you need to hire a car, consider getting an SUV or similar vehicle if you plan to venture off-road, this will give you extra luggage space too if you plan to bring your own camping gear.

If you prefer a more scenic and adventurous route, you can take a ferry from the mainland to Tasmania. The Spirit of Tasmania operates two ferries, Spirit of Tasmania I and Spirit of Tasmania II, between Melbourne (Victoria) and Devonport (Tasmania).

The ferry journey takes around 9 to 11 hours, and there are options for day and night sailings. It’s a great way to bring your own vehicle (or one you rented on the mainland) on a Tasmania driving holiday. Depending on weather conditions, you might find the ferry service disrupted. So before setting off on your trip to Tasmania, it is worth checking the current schedule.

Additionally, if you plan to bring a vehicle, ensure you book ferry tickets for both the outbound and return journeys in advance, as spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.

8 Locations not to miss on a Tasmania Self-Drive Holiday 

A Tasmania self-drive holiday is a journey through a land of natural wonders, vibrant culture, and captivating history.

To ensure you make the most of your trip, here are eight locations that you should not miss:

Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay are destinations you should add to your Tasmania road trip itinerary, especially if travelling with children.

One of the most beautiful places you’ll see whilst driving in Tasmania, the stunning park offers excellent hiking opportunities along the Wineglass Bay Lookout Track and the Cape Tourville Lighthouse Walk . You’ll also have plenty of opportunity to stroll, sunbathe or splash around in the gentle waters of pristine beaches like Honeymoon Bay.

The area is renowned as a terrific spot for wildlife watching. It excites the journey further for children as they can see wallabies and colourful birdlife in their natural habitat. Families can also enjoy picnics in picturesque spots like Coles Bay , creating cherished memories while enjoying delicious local produce and surrounded by stunning vistas.

You’ll want to have your camera ready, as the flora and overall landscape will inspire you to take lots of photos.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is an enchanting, untouched wilderness that will take your breath away.

You will be captivated by the awe-inspiring beauty of Cradle Mountain, its mirror-like alpine lakes, and the possibility of spotting adorable wombats and wallabies along the trails.

The short and easy walks around the park, such as the Enchanted Walk and the Pencil Pine Falls , are perfect for those with younger children, while older kids can enjoy slightly more challenging hikes like the Dove Lake Circuit .

Families can bond over nature-inspired activities and make memories amidst the tranquil setting.

Visiting the Bay of Fires is a must on any Tasmania road trip. It’s a captivating coastal wonderland where unique orange-hued granite rocks line pristine white beaches, showcasing some of nature’s best artistry.

Children will be entranced by the opportunity to collect brilliantly coloured seashells along the shores. The calm and clear waters also provide a safe environment for little ones to paddle and swim.

Families can embark on leisurely beach walks, where kids can spot native wildlife like seabirds and perhaps even playful dolphins in the distance. Picnics on the sandy shores offer a chance to savour local treats and soak in breathtaking views.

Overall, the Bay of Fires is ideal for families seeking a balance between relaxation and exploration against a beautiful playground of spectacular natural beauty.

Visiting the Port Arthur Historic Site in Tasmania is a captivating journey back in time, offering a glimpse into Australia’s colonial past.

Located on the Tasman Peninsula, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is a well-preserved former penal settlement, rich with history and stories of the convict era. As one of Australia’s most significant heritage sites, Port Arthur provides an immersive experience through its well-maintained ruins, period buildings, and landscaped grounds. Visitors can join guided tours that vividly bring to life the tales of the convicts who once lived and toiled within its stone walls.

Explore the impressive Penitentiary, the hauntingly beautiful Convict Church, and the eerie remnants of the Separate Prison. The site also offers interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to engage with the history firsthand. With its picturesque setting along the waterfront, Port Arthur exudes an eerie yet mesmerising ambience. The open grounds also provide plenty of space for kids to run and play.

Accessible by a short ferry ride from the mainland, Bruny Island offers a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, gourmet delights, and abundant wildlife.

The island boasts stunning white-sand beaches, towering sea cliffs, and lush rainforests, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Families can indulge in beachcombing, swimming, and hiking along the island’s scenic trails, including the famous Cape Bruny Lighthouse Walk and the Neck Lookout , which offers panoramic views of the island’s narrow isthmus.

Foodies will revel in Bruny Island’s gourmet experiences, with opportunities to taste locally sourced oysters, cheeses, and artisanal treats at various farmgate outlets and markets. The island’s thriving wildlife adds to the charm, as visitors can spot fur seals, dolphins, and native birdlife, including the rare white wallabies that call South Bruny National Park home.

Nestled between the towering Mount Wellington and the picturesque waterfront, Hobart exudes a unique charm that captivates travellers from all walks of life. With its blend of well-preserved colonial architecture, contemporary art galleries, and bustling markets, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences.

A visit to the historic Salamanca Market is a must, where visitors can immerse themselves in a vibrant array of stalls showcasing local arts, crafts, and mouthwatering delights. The city’s deep-rooted maritime heritage comes to life at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania, offering insights into the region’s seafaring past.

Nature lovers will also relish in the proximity to the wilderness, with opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes of Mount Wellington, take a scenic cruise along the Derwent River , or venture into nearby national parks.

Additionally, families can delight in exploring the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens or enjoy a stroll along Hobart’s waterfront.

Visiting Launceston, the charming riverside city in northern Tasmania, and its iconic Cataract Gorge is an experience that delights all who venture there. 

Launceston offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary attractions. Stroll through the city’s elegant parks, explore historic buildings, and sample delicious food at local eateries. While the Cataract Gorge, just a short walk from the city centre, is a natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe. The majestic cliffs, lush vegetation, and the South Esk River winding through the gorge create a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

Families can take the world’s longest single-span chairlift ride, providing spectacular views of the gorge and the city. Kids can have a ball at the Gorge Scenic Reserve playground, while parents can relax in the serene surroundings.

The gorge also offers walking trails for all levels, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. If your nerves are up to it, don’t pass up the opportunity to cross the Alexandra Suspension Bridge, which provides a thrilling experience high above the river.

If you love wine, the Tamar Valley Wine Region in Tasmania is somewhere you should visit. The region is renowned for its world-class wineries, cellar doors and vineyards, which are sure to impress. 

However, there’s more to explore beyond the wine. Families can take scenic drives through the picturesque countryside, passing by rolling hills and meandering rivers. Many wineries in the Tamar Valley also offer family-friendly facilities, such as playgrounds and open spaces, where kids can run and play while parents indulge in wine tasting. Some vineyards also have farm animals, which young ones can interact with, making the visit even more enjoyable.

Whilst there, be sure to try the delicious local produce the area is renowned for, including fresh fruits, cheeses, and many other gourmet delights.

• Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable, and you may experience four seasons in a single day, especially during spring and autumn. Therefore, you should pack accordingly , whatever time of the year you visit.
• Book accommodations and attractions in advance to secure your preferred options if you plan to visit popular tourist spots during the peak summer season. They fill up very fast!

© Family Road Trip

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How to: The ultimate Tassie road trip in three days

• Reporter Jade Watkins visited 15 must-see restaurants, wineries, distilleries and hotels in just three days
• A Virgin flight to Tasmania from Sydney takes just one hour and 50 minutes 

Tasmania  - once considered the end of the earth and an isolated island popular among retirees.

But those days are far gone, with the nation's island state now considered Australia's epicentre of culture, food and wine, the home of one of the best museums in Southern Hemisphere and the cleanest air in the world.

My parents never took me to Tassie. My dad was obsessed with the Formula One and my mum, sister and I were forced to take the annual 12-hour road trip to Adelaide in his rickety old Alfa Romeo. 

So when I had the chance to visit to the only state I've never visited in Australia, I was delighted. And when I found out it was a food and wine tour, it was a no-brainer. Give me all the cheese.

My trip to Tasmania started with a Virgin flight into Launceston . 

After an on-time, seamless one hour and 50 minute flight, I hopped off the plane and breathed in that famous air - you could make make a fortune bottling it.

It was a little chilly arriving from a humid Sydney, but armed with a warm blazer, a cardigan and some comfy and stretchy pants, I was ready for some serious eating and drinking.

Looking at the endless dining options ahead of me, my greatest fear was the 5kg I was going to gain and I am not talking about carry-on luggage. 'Where is the gym please?' I asked when we arrived at our first accommodation in Launceston.

Peppers Silo Hotel was forged from the city's iconic landmark Silo and converted into a sophisticated nine-storey 108-room hotel. 

Housed in the original silos, the North Tower offers beautifully appointed hotel rooms all with modern amenities, including complimentary WiFi, a LCD TV with Chromecast and Foxtel channels, a mini bar and guest en suite.

Taking in sweeping views over the meandering river, the Gorge River Rooms and Premier Suites boast private balconies where you can soak in Launceston's natural ambience.

I judge a size of a hotel by the amount of cartwheels I can fit in it, and this one allowed an impressive three.

Popping some champagne and a complimentary white chocolate truffle in my mouth, I slipped into a relaxing bath to get ready for the first three-course meal for the night.

Our tour guide for the weekend was Di Hollister - a pint-sized five foot two woman in her late seventies who had more energy than a twenty-year-old and somehow managed to steer a 12-seater mini van ferrying eight of us around the whole of Tasmania.

She is also a historian with seriously extensive knowledge of Tasmania.

A stickler for punctuality, Di raced across town to our first stop on the our culinary tour, Stillwater Restaurant.

Stillwater Restaurant is located in an 1830s flour mill by the banks of Kanamaluka/Tamar River and has been awarded one hat in the Good Food Guide three years in a row.

Boutique accommodation is located above the restaurant, with seven stunning  rooms on offer and one which allows pets. 

Greeted with a glass of crisp Italian Prosecco, the group we were shown to our private dining area in the eatery's very moody and sexy cellar.

I chose three signature dishes from the menu - Rannoch Farm quail with corn custard for my entrée, the house gnocchi with ricotta and kale for the main and shared desserts.

Now I am not usually fan of baby birds, but this succulent entrée was by far my most favourite and memorable on the trip.

And while I usually avoid heavy carby pasta dishes in the evening, true to the waiter's word the gnocchi was pillowy soft delectable heaven.

Barely able to squeeze another thing in - our group shared all the equally delicious desserts on the menu and it was time to roll on back to the hotel.

Somehow I woke up with an empty stomach, ready to go again.

With a day of eating and drinking ahead, I was thrilled to get some activity in with a hike at Launceston's most famous natural attraction, Cataract Gorge.

The Cataract Gorge Reserve on the South Esk River is a unique natural formation just minutes from central Launceston.

The Gorge has walking tracks, a swimming pool, the world's longest single-span chairlift, a restaurant, café, and a suspension bridge with panoramic lookouts.

When Di said Cataract Gorge didn't look real, she was right. The spectacular scenery look AI-generated and I felt like I was in an American Western film.

Hiking through the trails we got up close and personal with some of the most incredible wildlife I have ever seen, including dozens of royal blue and emerald peacocks and Tasmanian Pademelons - the state's native wallaby.

Next stop was Turner Stillhouse - a small batch craft spirits distillery located in the world famous Tamar Valley.

The distillery is owned by Justin Turner, an American who married a Tasmanian from a multi-generational farming family and has cultivated an obsession with the area's spirits and food ever since.

Born and raised in Northern California, Justin's family owned and operated a family winery that also produced brandy and other spirits – distilling is in his blood.

This gin does not mess around. The two heroes - the founder's and distiller's release - has won multiple awards in Australia and the US.

While I am usually a wine drinker, I could not get enough of the botanical rich brew and after a few nips we were feeling well on our way and ready for some food.

Next up was lunch at Timbre Kitchen, which sits among the grapevines at Launceston's famous Velo Winery. 

Shared dining is encouraged at this eatery and the ever-evolving menu is based around the wood-fired oven.

From the goodwill of owner Matt Adams and his staff, we were served a banquet of every dish on the menu.

My top picks - the chicken, almond and salsa verde and the best dessert I have ever eaten in my life - the miso caramel mousse with honeycomb and brown butter crumb.

If you are not after lunch, I highly recommend visiting to Timbre Kitchen just for this dessert with a hearty red.

Speaking of wine, our next stop was Stoney Rise winery.

Stoney Rise is the brainchild of Lou Holyman and her husband Joe, who spent more than a decade selling and making wine interstate and overseas before the couple returned to their native Tasmania in 2004. 

We enjoyed our tasting inside the newly-opened Stoney Rise Cellar Door, which was designed by local and cult architect studio Cumulus and overlooks the Tamar River.

We tried six testate-grown and made wines, one made by the couple's teenage son and given a name only a 18-year-old boy could dream up - 'No Clothes'.

After a few glasses it was time for a much-needed lie down.

Hotel Verge! is Launceston's newest boutique accommodation and located in the heart of Launceston, adjacent to the City Park.

The hotel's contemporary design references the precinct's early industrial heritage and features 86 spacious and well-appointed hotel rooms, a large function room, boardroom, gym and guest laundry.

It it also conveniently around the corner from our next stop, Du Cane, Launceston's first brewpub.

While I almost never drink beer, I was keen to see what all of the hype was about.

Named 2023 New Brewing Company of the Year, Du Cane is run by head brewer and founder Will Horan and co-owner Sam Reid.

Having previously worked as a mountain guide who spent most of his winters travelling, Du Cane reflects Will's own nomadic lifestyle and, aptly, the brewpub replaced what was once a Tent City.

The venue operates as an on-site brewery featuring function spaces, a private dining room and a cellar door hub - all built around a state-of-the-art pizza oven.

We tried almost every beer with very cute hiking-inspired names on the menu over Will's mountain tales and and the most delicious pizza I have had outside of Napoli.

After a heavy dose of eating and drinking and the deepest sleep at Hotel Verge!, we woke up the next day early to visit the Launceston Harvest Market.

Every Saturday morning in the heart of the Tamar Valley, Harvest Launceston Community Farmers' Market brightens a quiet inner-city car park and brings the farm gate to it's customers.

With a full belly from the day before, I was not there for the food, but to check out most beautiful blooms courtesy of The Green Flower Farm, run by Anne and Thomas Greene.

While I sadly could not take the flowers home, it was great to chat and connect with the couple, especially Thomas, who like Di, is a proud Tassie historian.

Armed with a world-famous Morning Bun from award-winning local bakery Bread + Butter, our group hopped in the bus for the drive to Hobart.

While it usually takes two and a half hours to drive to Hobart from Launceston, we had two very important and exciting stops on the way which included, you guessed it, more food and wine.

First up was Callington Mill Distillery, located in the historic sandstone village of Oatlands, Tasmania.

A distillery on a scale like no other in Tasmania, Callington Mill offers immersive and unique single malt experiences.

Stepping foot into the distillery is like stepping into a state-of-the-art science lab - it is pristine, sleek and grand.   

We toured of the entire mill before enjoying a whiskey tasting paired with a delectable platter of meats and cheese.

While I avoid drinking whiskey (that's another story!) I took small sips of the rich golden brown honey and spiced elixirs and an additional nip of the distillery's triple award winning drop - Poltergeist Gin. 

It was now time for the most-anticipated stop on my trip - The Agrarian Kitchen.

Founded by Rodney Dunn and Séverine Demanet, The Agrarian Kitchen was opened to bring lightness to a dark period in Tasmania's history - New Norfolk's Willow Court, Australia's largest mental asylum.

Tasmania was the first state in Australia to de-institutionalise all patients it housed and closed the doors of Willow Court  and Royal Derwent Hospital in late 2001.

The Agrarian Kitchen is located in the beautiful Bronte building and the space is now filled with keen diners.

The building also houses a cooking school and just metres behind, within the walls of the asylum's old exercise yard, a secret garden.

One acre in size, it is a space to grow fruit, vegetables, herbs and even flowers for the restaurant, kiosk and classes.

Before our lunch we were taken on an a stunning, albeit spooky, tour of the yard and nearby gardens by local gardener Dan. It is hard to believe a mental asylum was once in this now colourful space.

The kitchen sources ingredients from the land around it, it's own garden, the community garden across the road or a network of local gardeners, producers, farmers and fishermen.

Simple dishes come to life thanks to the freshest ingredients from the garden, and my top picks were the Gem Lettuce with Alpine cheese, Sugar Snap Peas, Paprika and Hemp Seed, Burrata + Fermented Lemon, Fennel Salami, Lamb Loin, Nettle and Onion and a palate cleansing Buttermilk gelato with berries.

The cocktails are also not to be missed, including an Instagram-worthy chilled gin with lemon drop.

By now I was fit to burst and ready to arrive at the world-famous MACq 01.

Located on the heart of the historic Hobart waterfront, MACq 01 is Australia's first storytelling hotel and throughout the halls and across the walls of the hotel you'll find engaging pieces of history, tales and fables that make up the remarkable history of Tasmania.

I was staying the Martin Cash room, named after the notorious Irish-Australian convict bushranger who was known for escaping twice from ominous Port Arthur.

The room was breathtaking and fitted a very spacious five cartwheels, as well as a pair of gold handcuffs at the door in a nod to Cash.

The waterfront room had views of both the River Derwent and Mount Wellington, and the yachts, docks, convict-built sandstone warehouses and a vast expanse of open water.

While steeped in history, Hobart has a very cosmopolitan vibe. Many Melburnians relocated during Covid and it is evident from the city's very chic and buzzing bars and restaurants.

Before our last supper we went for a cocktail at the glamorous Institut Polaire -Tasmania's coolest locale which takes inspiration from the Southern Ocean and proximity to Antarctica with its long white marble bar, cool-climate wines and 'cold-hearted liquor'.

Martinis are this inner-city bar's specialty and I enjoyed a chilled one in a chic metal glass along with caviar bumps, Bottarga toast and Oeufs mayo with Pepperberry Salt.

While that was a meal in itself, it was time to enjoy Italian the Tasmanian way over at Peppina near the Salamanca Markets.

Chef Massimo has created an uncomplicated menu, utilising wood-fired grills and seasonal producer local farmers and growers have on offer.

Once again, we were treated to a banquet featuring charcuterie, cheeses, pastas and meats and desserts for days, and while we were well and truly stuffed, we had seconds and thirds off this moorish menu.

A suspected few kilos heavier, it was time to fly back to Sydney on our Virgin flight the next day after a well-earned 10-hour sleep at Macq01.

Unfortunately for me my Virgin flight from Hobart to Sydney was on-time and my Tassie adventure was over.

Was it time to make the move like hundreds of thousands of other Aussies have over the past few years? 

My tastebuds say yes, but I need to check in with my waistline.

Ready to book your flights to Tasmania? Virgin Australia currently operates up to 101 return services per week into Tasmania, with 39 direct services into Launceston and 62 direct flights to Hobart. 

‘Had his penis out’: Adelaide woman’s horror Uber trip

An Adelaide woman has recounted how she was left “holding back tears” and fearing for her life after her driver performed a disgusting act behind the wheel.

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A “creepy” Adelaide Uber driver who masturbated in front of a terrified female passenger while driving her home from the CBD has escaped jail time over the incident.

Tayla Pimlott, 26, recounted her horrific experience to Yahoo News on Monday, describing how she found herself “holding back tears” and fearing she would be raped on what was supposed to be a “quick and quiet” journey home during rush hour.

Ms Pimlott was taking a short 20-minute trip home to Campbelltown last October when something caught her eye in the front seat, causing her to look up from her phone — only to realise the driver was masturbating behind the wheel.

“Usually, when someone takes their pants down, they ruffle down a bit or something,” she said. “I saw none of that, I just saw this subtle hand gesture. I could see clearly that he [the Uber driver] had his penis out, and he was masturbating.”

Her mind racing, Ms Pimlott said she considered calling police, screaming at the driver, or even attempting to get out of the moving vehicle.

She immediately contacted her mum and boyfriend to tell them what was happening and managed to capture footage of the man to use as evidence for the police.

“There was a part of me that thought, ‘Oh God, I could die, I could be raped, this man could touch me,’” she told Yahoo News. “My brain was frozen and my heart was pounding … I was petrified.”

A text to her mum read, “Mum. I’m about 10 minutes away from home I need you to [wait] outside for me. I’m in an Uber and this man has his penis out.”

Ms Pimlott said she decided her best option was to pretend she hadn’t noticed, out of fear the driver might lash out if she confronted him.

When she arrived home, to her mum waiting outside, she had to ask him to unlock the doors.

“He fully turned around and looked at me and in the most creepiest voice I’ve ever heard he goes, ‘Thank you so much,’” she said.

Ms Pimlott replied in horror, “You’re welcome.”

“I felt if I made a huge fuss about this I think that would put me in more danger … I had to be polite … I felt ashamed,” she told Yahoo News.

Ms Pimlott said she was speaking out about her experience now in the context of the broader national crisis of violence against women.

She reported the incident to the police and Uber, requesting Uber ban him from the platform and that she be kept informed — but was told “we are unable to provide you details of the outcome as we have a strict Privacy Notice which prevents us from sharing account holder information without permission”.

However, Uber said in a statement that the man had been permanently removed.

“What’s been reported has no place in the Uber community or anywhere else,” an Uber spokeswoman said.

“As soon as we were notified of this report, we removed the driver partner’s access to the app immediately and permanently. We continue to work to build cutting-edge technology and features to help improve safety for riders and driver-partners on the app, such as the Safety Toolkit, the emergency assistance button and Share my Trip feature. Trips on the Uber platform are not anonymous and all trips are GPS tracked in real time.”

Court records show SA Police arrested and charged Rahman Fazeli, 29, with indecent behaviour, “namely in an Uber vehicle so as to offend or insult another person”, on October 1.

The Craigmore man appeared before Adelaide Magistrates Court in March where he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to four weeks’ imprisonment.

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The sentence was fully suspended by Magistrate John Wells, with Fazeli entering into a $500, 18-month good behaviour bond.

Ms Pimlott told Yahoo News the man had been “banned” from visiting her home or work, but she was still deeply affected by the incident.

“I thought I was OK,” she said. “But then I realised like, ‘Oh, hey, I can’t really leave my house without being petrified.’ I’m never using Uber again.”

A man who went missing as a teen in 1998 was found alive over the weekend just 100m from his family’s residence.

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The parents of a young boy who took his own life have claimed he was relentlessly bullied by kids for his appearance.