Things to do in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia: Explore by Foot, Ferry, and Flight

PUBLISHED February 28th, 2025 08:00 am | UPDATED March 11th, 2025 02:52 pm

Tasmania’s rugged landscapes and stunning coastlines might make you think a car is essential for exploring, but Hobart, Tasmania’s charming capital, tells a different story. With its compact city center, scenic waterways, and accessible tours, this southernmost city in Tasmania, Australia, is perfect for a car-free adventure. Whether you’re strolling through historic neighbourhoods, taking in the sights from a seaplane, or hopping on a ferry to explore the coastline, there are countless things to do in Hobart without needing a car. Here are some of the best ways to experience the city and beyond, no wheels required.

Food and Drink Adventures in Tasmania

Gourmet Indulgence on Bruny Island

A short ferry ride from Hobart, Bruny Island is a food lover’s paradise. Join the Bruny Island Traveller Tour, a day-long excursion that introduces you to the island’s finest artisanal produce—think award-winning cheeses, freshly shucked oysters, handcrafted chocolates, and locally distilled spirits. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking coastal views and wildlife sightings, all while someone else does the driving.

Weekend Wandering at Salamanca Market

Every Saturday, Salamanca Place transforms into a bustling marketplace with over 300 stalls offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to farm-fresh produce. Soak up the lively atmosphere, chat with local artisans, and don’t leave without trying a famous Tasmanian scallop pie.

Fresh Finds at Farm Gate Market

On Sundays, Farm Gate Market is the go-to for fresh produce, local specialties, and delicious street food. This is where you’ll find the best seasonal Tasmanian ingredients, meet passionate farmers, and enjoy a relaxed breakfast under the open sky.

Whisky & History at Lark Distillery

Tasmania is home to some of the world’s best single malt whisky, and there’s no better place to experience it than Lark Distillery’s Cellar Door in Hobart. Join a guided tasting to sample their award-winning spirits and learn about Tasmania’s rich whisky-making heritage. It’s definitely one of the top things to do Hobart Tasmania is known for.

A Leisurely Long Lunch in Hobart

No trip to Hobart is complete without a long, leisurely lunch. Whether it’s a waterfront seafood feast at Franklin Wharf or a farm-to-table experience at Templo, the city’s dining scene is a celebration of Tasmania’s best produce.

Art, Culture, History in Hobart

Sail to MONA in Style

An attraction like no other, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) blends provocative art, immersive experiences, and cutting-edge design. Getting there is half the fun—skip the road and take the MONA ferry along the Derwent River. Choose the standard ride or upgrade to the Posh Pit for champagne and canapés on a VIP deck. Inside, expect an unconventional mix of contemporary works, ancient artifacts, and an ambiance that’s equal parts luxurious and surreal.

Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery (TMAG)

Whether you’re into natural history, Indigenous culture, or contemporary art, TMAG has something to offer. This beautifully curated space showcases Tasmania’s past and present, from convict history to cutting-edge exhibitions.

Hidden Stories with MACq 01’s Viewfinder Tour

Hobart’s waterfront holds stories of convicts, whalers, and revolutionaries, and MACq 01’s storytelling tour brings them to life. Armed with a vintage-style viewfinder, you’ll step back in time as guides share tales of Hobart’s lesser-known past, revealing the city’s dark and fascinating history.

Aboriginal Culture with Blak Led Tours

Gain a deeper understanding of Tasmania’s Indigenous heritage with Blak Led Tours. The takara nipaluna/Walking Hobart Tour offers insight into the history, traditions, and resilience of the palawa people, providing an essential perspective on the island’s past and present.

Convict Tales at Hobart Penitentiary

Step into Tasmania’s colonial past with a visit to Hobart Penitentiary, where interactive exhibits and guided tours uncover the stories of convicts who shaped the island’s history. Explore the original courtrooms, underground tunnels, and execution yard for an immersive dive into 19th-century life.

Scenic Tours and Outdoor Activities in Tasmania

Seaplane Adventures Above Tasmania

For an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of Hobart’s coastline and beyond, take to the skies with Above & Beyond Seaplanes. This unique experience allows you to soar over breathtaking landscapes, landing in remote locations like Port Arthur or the Three Capes. It’s the perfect way to witness Tasmania’s wild beauty from a perspective few get to see.

Historic Charm in Battery Point

Just a short walk from the waterfront, Battery Point is Hobart’s most picturesque neighbourhood. Wander past colonial-era cottages, cobblestone streets, and charming cafés. For a sweet treat, stop by Jackman & McRoss, a much-loved bakery known for its pastries and rustic-style brunches.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus for Effortless Sightseeing

Want to see it all without the hassle of planning? Exploring by bus is one of the easiest things to do Hobart Tasmania visitors can enjoy effortlessly. The Red Decker Hop-On Hop-Off Bus takes you around Hobart’s top attractions, from Mount Wellington’s panoramic views to the historic streets of Richmond.

Hobart’s charm lies in its accessibility, history, and thriving food and arts scene—all of which can be explored without a car. So, pack your walking shoes, hop on a ferry, and let Tasmania’s capital unfold at a slower, more immersive pace.

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This itinerary is curated by Tourism Tasmania. For more information, visit discovertasmania.com.au. 

Top image by Samuel Shelley.