12 Incredible Places To Visit In Tasmania In 2024

This post may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure

While it’s hard to choose the most beautiful places to visit in Australia, Tasmania is certainly up there! We’ve put together a list of the best places to visit in Tasmania to help you plan an epic journey around Tassie, including the best things to see and do in each place and where to stay too.

Best Places To Visit In Tasmania

We first visited Tasmania on our babymoon and instantly fell in love… There are many places in our home country that we adore, but Tasmania is definitely one that holds a special place in our hearts.

And that’s even with the dreaded combination of morning sickness and those windy Tasmanian roads during our Australian babymoon. Yikes!

The best way to see Tasmania is by doing a road trip. You can check out our 8-day Hobart to Launceston itinerary as a starting point.

You might also enjoy the best places to visit in NSW, places in Queensland to visit, best places to visit in WA and best places to visit in Victoria too!

But first, here are the most beautiful places in Tasmania that you can’t miss:

1. Hobart

The capital city often does make the list of best places to visit in most places, but in the case of Hobart, it really is a beautiful capital! It still feels like a big country town, especially when you compare it to places like Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne!

You can easily spend 3 days in Hobart (or more) exploring the nearby attractions and enjoying the city highlights.

Hobart is quite the foodie destination. You will find some delicious food in Salamanca Place and around Constitution Dock. You can get some great seafood. And of course, if you’re in Hobart on a Saturday, don’t miss the Salamanca Market.

Mount Wellington is a must if you want to enjoy some time outdoors. There are hiking and biking tracks or simply enjoy the view. Head up early if you’re visiting in winter. There’s a hop-on hop-off bus.

If you have more time, take a tour of Australia’s oldest brewery – Cascade Brewery and stop by nearby Cascades Female Factory for a historic reenactment and learn the history of female convicts in the area.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a great chance to see the highly endangered Tasmanian Devil up close. This is a rescue and rehabilitation centre and we really enjoyed our visit.

2. Port Arthur

Port Arthur is one of the most popular day trips from Hobart, but it’s also somewhere you could easily spend a couple of days to really explore the attractions in the area.

Most famous, it is known for Port Arthur Historic Site, one of the most famous convict sites in Australia. It also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A tour of Port Arthur Historic Site allows you to delve into the rich history of the area and explore the many remaining buildings and monuments that remain.

They even do a ghost tour at night, if you’re feeling brave! This is a good reason to stay overnight in the area, rather than take a day trip, as the drive back to Hobart is close to 2 hours and those windy roads are notorious for wildlife.

The other must-do in the area is a Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise. This is easily one of our all-time favourite experiences in Australia and a fun experience for all ages.

You will see the beautiful Tasmanian coastline and towering cliffs plus lots of wildlife, such as sea lions, seabirds and possibly even some dolphins surfing alongside the boat. We did this cruise.

If you’re short on time, do a combined Tasman Island cruise and Port Arthur day tour combo.

And for longer stays, don’t miss the chance to explore some of the gorgeous hiking trails and lookouts along the Tasman Peninsula.

3. Wineglass Bay

Contributed by Dotti from Travel Oasis

Wineglass Bay, one of Tasmania’s star attractions, is hands-down one of the best places to visit in Tasmania. 

Not only is Wineglass Bay considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia, but it’s regularly ranked as one of the best in the world. With crystal clear water, soft white sand and incredible sunsets, it’s a magical place to spend a couple of days. 

While you’re there, climb to the viewpoint to take in the spectacular view of the bay. You can walk down to the beach, have a picnic, go for a swim and watch the sunset over the sea. 

If you’re feeling more active, then consider a climb to the summit of Mt Amos or a kayak trip around the bay.

If you’re really keen, you can trek the Freycinet Circuit hike, a 3-day hike around the Peninsula (or a 4-day hike from Hobart) and a great way to take in the region’s natural beauty. For a more leisurely way to take in the area, you can also take a cruise around the Peninsula.

Wineglass Bay is located in Freycinet National Park and as such, a Tasmanian Parks Pass is required to visit. To get the most out of the area, plan on staying two days. 

4. Maria Island

Contributed by Taryn from Happiness Outdoors

Maria Island is like a mini Tasmania. This little island off the East Coast of the state is a National Park and has no permanent residents. But it does have convict history sites, gorgeous beaches, and great bushwalking.

It’s also one of the best places to spot wildlife, including wombats, wallabies, kangaroos, tons of bird species and even Tasmanian devils. 

Most of the key sights on Maria Island are near Darlington where the ferry docks. This is where you’ll find the historic penitentiary, that dates back to the 1820s, as well as the old Coffee Palace from the island’s stint as a resort in the 1880s. Darlington is also where you will find the start of the Island’s best hikes including the unique rock formations at Painted Cliffs. 

Most people visit Maria Island as a day trip, which is enough time to see the main sights. But if you want to see nocturnal wildlife (like wombats and Tassie devils) it’s best to stay overnight either in the campground or the rustic bunk rooms in the old penitentiary.

The only way to get to Maria Island is via a short passenger ferry. It leaves from Triabunna, about a 1.5-hour drive from Hobart.

5. Strahan

Contributed by Carryn from Australia Obsessed

Located on the west coast of Tasmania lies the charming town of Strahan. It’s a unique place with a rugged and raw coastline that’s often skipped by travellers. But those who venture here will soon discover hidden gems in Strahan unlike anything else in Tasmania.

The drive to get here is a highlight on its own. The route is made up of rolling hills with incredible scenery and includes the section dubbed “99 Bends” between Queenstown and Strahan. Along the way, you’ll find the Iron Blow Lookout which offers a vantage point overlooking one of the oldest mines in Tasmania.

Two nights (three days) is enough time to explore Strahan. This will allow you to do the famous Gordon River Cruise. The full-day tour takes you through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area with several stops along the way.

Hogwarth Falls is also a beautiful trail that meanders through a lush forest. It’s only a 2 km return walk, with the trailhead starting close to the town centre.

Other popular attractions include Macquarie Heads and the West Coast Wilderness Railway, which is a great option for kids.

6. Cradle Mountain

Contributed by Lanie from Make More Adventures

Located in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Cradle Mountain is slightly more than a 2-hour drive from Launceston and one of the best places to visit in Tasmania.

For those who want to see Australian wildlife, Cradle Mountain is the home to many wombats, wallabies, and echidna. Visitors may even be lucky enough to spot a platypus.

To guarantee a Tasmanian Devil sighting, visit Devils @ Cradle, a conservation sanctuary. They have a nighttime wildlife experience too.

A shuttle takes visitors from the visitor’s centre to Dove Lake where there are multiple hiking trail options. More options for hiking trails, including the popular Enchanted Walk, are near the visitor’s centre and Pepper’s Cradle Mountain Lodge.

The Overland Track is 65 kilometres around the park to Lake St Clair and takes 6-7 days either independently or on a guided tour with overnights in private huts.

Cruises are offered on Lake St Clair, and visitors can also go horseback riding on a variety of tours from quick walks to full-day treks. Fishing can be done independently or with a tour.

Adventure seekers can join Cradle Mountain Canyons in abseiling down waterfalls, pack rafting, or kayaking in Dove Lake.

Most visitors need at least 2-3 days to experience Cradle Mountain, though at least a week is needed for those who complete the Overland Track.  Be sure to add Cradle Mountain to your loop around Tasmania.

7. Launceston

Contributed by Haley from Haley Blackall Travel

Nestled in the Tamar Valley of Northern Tasmania, Launceston is a must-visit place that offers an eclectic blend of history, nature, and culinary delights like seafood and wine. it’s an ideal starting or ending point for a Tasmania east coast road trip or as a destination in and of itself.

Spend a day exploring the Cataract Gorge Reserve, a natural sanctuary within walking distance from the city centre, boasting lush gardens, peacocks, and a suspension bridge that offers spectacular views.

Art lovers and history buffs should not miss the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing Tasmania’s rich past and culture.

Launceston is also the gateway to the Tamar Valley Wine Region, offering some of Australia’s finest cool-climate wines like Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Noir. Take a top-rated day tour or navigate the valley’s wineries on your own time. 

Spend two full days in Launceston to immerse yourself in its relaxed atmosphere and explore its historical streets. 

Tip: Launceston’s culinary scene is booming. Make sure to try the local produce, especially the seafood, and pair it with a local Pinot Noir or sparkling wine. 

8. Bay Of Fires

Located on the east coast of Tasmania lies the stunningly beautiful Bay of Fires. Home to some of Australia’s whitest beaches, crystal clear waters, and iconic orange lichen-covered rocks, this is a paradise for nature lovers.

The Bay of Fires is best known for its beach activities such as swimming, snorkelling and diving. The calm and clear water makes it ideal for exploring the underwater world.

Of course, the Bay Of Fires makes the list of the best beaches in Tasmania.

Aside from beach activities, the Bay of Fires also offers a range of scenic walking trails. These trails take you through pristine coastal landscapes and offer breathtaking views of the ocean. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as wallabies, kangaroos, and a variety of bird species.

There are day tours to the Bay Of Fires from Launceston if you don’t have your own car.

9. Stanley

Contributed by Ann from The Road Is Life

The small town of Stanley is tucked away in the far north-west corner of Tasmania on a narrow peninsula that sticks out from the mainland. With plenty of beautiful sights and unique attractions, Stanley makes for an excellent stop on a road trip through Tasmania.

Stanley is known for its stunning natural scenery, most famously the prominent volcanic formation called “The Nut”. One of the best things to do in Stanley is climbing to the top of The Nut for an incredible panoramic view over Tasmania’s rugged coastline. A chairlift is available for those who don’t wish to make the steep climb.

Stanley has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century and there are several historic sites and buildings to explore in the area. Highfield House is a lovely old homestead where you can learn a bit about the town’s history as well as admire a beautiful view from its scenic hilltop location.

A trip to Stanley wouldn’t be complete without taking a stroll through the town centre to see the charming colonial buildings that line the main street. Don’t miss the Discovery Museum which is housed in a historic church on the main street.

A short visit is all you need to learn more about Stanley’s history through a series of displays and historic memorabilia.

10. Cygnet

Contributed by Michael from Time Travel Turtle

Located on the water in the Huon Valley, Cygnet is a little patch of green bohemia, where artists have moved and transformed the town into a creative hub. Although it’s not large, it’s easy to spend your time visiting workshops like Ian Clare’s pottery studio or one of the many art galleries (Lovett Gallery is a good place to start).

With a laidback atmosphere, one of the best things to do in Cygnet is just wander the main street, exploring the boutique clothes stores, handicrafts, and local produce. Every two weeks, the Cygnet Market offers a great way to find some special souvenirs. 

There are also patches of heritage, with the Cygnet Living History Museum telling this story well. Or, surrounded by nature, there are also good walking trails and scenic driving routes.

Although it’s possible to visit Cygnet as a day trip from Hobart, it’s worth staying overnight (the boutique hotel in the Cygnet Old Bank is a highlight) and using it as a base to explore other parts of the surrounding Huon Valley.

11. Bruny Island

Just a short drive south of Hobart (30 mins) and a 20-minute ferry ride is the stunningly beautiful Bruny Island. This rugged island is one of the most scenic and untouched places in all of Tasmania. With its rolling hills, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, it’s easy to see why.

One of the must-visit spots on Bruny Island is the Cape Bruny Lighthouse, which offers incredible views, and a fascinating history and also happens to be one of Australia’s oldest lighthouses. For another incredible viewpoint, don’t miss Truganini Lookout.

Take a half-day Bruny Island wilderness cruise. Just like the Tasman Island cruise, this tour takes you around the island’s rugged coastline, with the added bonus of spotting seals, dolphins and whales (depending on the season). A must-do!

But perhaps the best part of visiting Bruny Island is indulging in the local food and wine scene. The island is home to some incredible wineries and food producers, offering visitors the chance to sample some of Tasmania’s finest produce, including Bruny Island Oysters.

When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options on Bruny Island, from cosy cabins to luxury eco-resorts. The island is also popular for camping and offers a variety of campsites with stunning ocean views.

12. Evandale

Contributed by Paula Barreca Barnes from Truly Expat Travel

Visiting Evandale is like stepping back in time with its well-preserved architecture and charming cobblestone streets.

The town’s annual Penny Farthing Championship adds to this historical experience. Evandale holds its annual Penny Farthing Championships once a year in February, Where you can watch skilled riders race on these iconic bicycles and enjoy the festival atmosphere.

There are many things to do in this historic town; however, if you are in the area on a Sunday, you must visit Evandale Market. Explore the stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food.

If you love history, this is the place to visit, from Clarendon Arms (which was a building built by convicts that was once a prison where Ned Kelly’s father lived before he died) to the magnificent Clarendon House, a substantial Georgian mansion that showcases Tasmania’s colonial heritage.

Many boutique shops showcase the area’s many antiques and excellent cafes and restaurants where you can indulge in the local cuisine. If you still haven’t had enough, visit St Andrews Church, which was built in 1836 and is a significant landmark in the area. 

As you can tell, one day isn’t enough for Evandale. If you can stay a weekend (or even a long weekend), you can truly appreciate this unique historic town. 

Best Time To Visit Tasmania

Tasmania is a year-round destination, with each season offering something special. However, if you want to experience the best of Tasmania’s outdoor activities and festivals, plan your trip between December and February.

Summers in Tasmania are typically mild and perfect for exploring the island’s stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and beaches.

If you’re a fan of snow sports or just love the winter wonderland atmosphere, visit between June and August when Tasmania’s ski resorts are in full swing. The island also hosts various winter festivals and events during this time, making it a lively and festive season to visit.

For those who prefer cooler temperatures and colourful landscapes, autumn (March to May) is the ideal time to visit. You can witness the changing of leaves in Tasmania.

How To Get Around Tasmania

The best way to get around Tasmania is by car or motorhome. Enjoy a scenic drive at your own pace, having your own car or a rental car to stop wherever you like along the way. 

Find the best price on a car or van to suit your needs on DiscoverCars or if it’s a budget campervan you’re looking for, check out Jucy. You can read our Jucy campervan review here. Or check out their more luxury RV brand StarRV. We love both depending on the length of the trip.

There are so many beautiful places in Tasmania to visit and many more hidden gems to discover! There’s no doubt you need at least a couple of weeks to really explore this beautiful island state of Australia, but if you’re short on time, be sure to check out our 8-day itinerary for Tasmania.