Top 10 things to do in Hobart
Hobart isn’t the kind of city that shouts for attention. It whispers. It invites you in slowly, then surprises you with how much there is to see and do. Surrounded by mountains and sea, Hobart mixes culture, history, nature and creativity in a way that feels uniquely Tasmanian.
If you’re looking up what to do in Hobart, you’ll quickly realise it’s not just about ticking off tourist spots. It’s about taking it slow, letting curiosity guide your days, and soaking up the charm that locals love and visitors quickly fall for. There are fun things to do in Hobart for every kind of traveller, whether you're here for food, art, hikes or heritage.
And if you’ve got wheels? Even better. Hiring a car in Hobart opens up those just-outside-the-city gems and makes the most of your time. These are our top 10 things to do in Hobart, covering iconic spots, local favourites, and scenic day trips that show off the best of Hobart and beyond.
#1
Visit the MONA Museum
MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, is like nothing you’ve ever visited. It’s one of the most talked-about attractions near Hobart, and once you’re inside, you’ll quickly see why. The space itself is carved deep into the sandstone cliffs of the Berriedale peninsula, only 15 minutes by car from the city or about 25 minutes by ferry along the River Derwent.
MONA was created by Tasmanian gambler-turned-philanthropist David Walsh, who calls it a “subversive adult Disneyland.” That sums it up well. Instead of plaques and neat labels, visitors get a device called “The O,” which uses GPS to tell you about the art nearby. It makes the visit feel more personal and interactive than a normal gallery.
The MONA pushes boundaries like no other art museum. The exhibits range from confronting to playful to poetic. You could see a wall of mummified animals, a machine that mimics digestion, or a dark room filled with ghostly images. MONA isn’t about being comfortable, but surprising you and making you think, which is why it leaves such a strong impression.
What you’ll find at MONA:
- Ancient Egyptian relics beside high-tech installations
- A waterfall that prints out words in real time
- A room full of candles, mirrors and ambient sound
- One of the world’s most curious toilets, designed to unsettle
- Moorilla winery tastings and onsite bars with local wines and beers
- Rotating art exhibitions, immersive festivals and special events
- Live music, outdoor seating and plenty of green space for lounging
- A sculpture garden and architectural design that’s a work of art in itself
Even if you’re not usually “into” museums, MONA has a way of pulling you in. The art hits differently in a space like this: part cave, part cathedral, part underground bunker.
Bonus tip: Make a full day of it
Catch the MONA ferry from Brooke Street Pier if you’re keen on arriving in style. The ferry has quirky sheep-shaped seats, rooftop views, and a bar onboard. Once you're there, you could easily spend four to six hours exploring, between the museum, a long lunch at The Source, a wine tasting at Moorilla, and a stroll around the grounds.
And if you’ve got your Alice rental handy, take the return trip via car and follow the river back into the city through the suburbs of Glenorchy and Moonah. You’ll find some great roadside stops, including art spaces, op shops, and local bakeries worth a detour.
Plan your visit
Be sure to check the opening days and hours ahead of your visit as MONA is closed on some weekdays. See opening hours.
#2
Drive up to Mt. Wellington
Mt Wellington, or kunanyi, sits high above Hobart, close enough to dash away quickly, yet far enough to be able to actually feel as if you escaped. You can take only 20 to 35 minutes from the city to make it all the way to the top on Pinnacle Road, so you can stand on top of the city with less planning than that, and still have the feeling that you really did escape.
Witness a changing landscape on the drive up from black forest to bare rock and cliff, then suddenly you've got the river, the city and the islands laid out before you. The top is blustery and rough, light shifts quickly, and the scenery is well worth the road time. In the cooler months, you might even see some snow.
What to do on Mt Wellington
- Drive to the lookout on the summit and witness the light break over Hobart, the Derwent and islands, it is especially beautiful at sunrise or towards late afternoon.
- Walk a little way from The Springs, the Organ Pipes and the Pinnacle Track are spectacular and within easy reach.
- Enjoy the easy boardwalks and picnic spots around The Springs, they are ideal if you have kids or just want to take a relaxing walk.
- Bike or ride the Wellington Park trails if you feel like getting your heart rate up, there are tracks for every ability.
- Bring a sketchbook, camera or nothing, the variable weather and expansive views offer great photographs and serene moments.
Practical tips
Although the mountain is close to the city, we recommend allowing a couple of hours for the visit. The drive up is windy and needs to be navigated cautiously.
Wear layers, take a windproof and a waterproof, as he top could be another season to the city and it can get quite windy. You can park at The Springs if you like trail access, or drive straight to the lookout if you're slack, both spots can fill on holiday days. Stick on the tracks, carry water and a phone, and check road conditions in winter because snow or ice can affect access.
The road to the summit can close in the winter months due to Icy road conditions. The road closure status can be found here from the city of Hobart website.
Bonus tip
If you rent a car in Hobart, time your visit for sunrise or sunset, and on the way back pop into Cascade or the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens for a relaxed finish. Mt Wellington is a small taste of Tasmania’s wild side, close enough to do in a morning and memorable enough to make you want to come back.
#3
Explore the Salamanca Market
Salamanca Market is one of the most iconic attractions in Hobart and it’s easy to see why. Every Saturday, over 300 stallholders set up along the cobblestone stretch of the historic Salamanca Place, turning the whole area into a lively open-air market filled with colour, smells, sounds, and local character.
You’ll find everything here. Fresh produce, handmade soaps, hand-knit beanies, woodwork, leather goods, ceramics, and food carts serving up Tassie scallop pies and coffee made with local beans. It’s a feast for the senses and a brilliant way to get a feel for Hobart’s creative side.
Locals come down to shop and catch up with friends. Visitors come for the atmosphere. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it’s worth strolling through just to people-watch and soak it all in.
What to expect at Salamanca Market:
- Local produce and gourmet goods like honey, cheeses and sauces
- Artisan crafts, jewellery, art prints and original fashion
- Live music from buskers and small performers
- Warm street food like gozleme, sausage rolls, dumplings and crepes
- Coffee vans and hot drink stalls for chilly mornings
- A friendly, slow-paced vibe that’s perfect for weekend wandering
Planning your visit
The market runs from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm every Saturday and only on Saturday. There is some public parking available close-by and on the wharf. However, it’s worth arriving early for a parking spot close to market to make things easier. Getting there early will help avoid bigger crowds, especially in summer. With your Alice hire car, you’ll have more flexibility to beat the morning rush and head off on your next adventure when you're ready.
Bonus tip: Walk the wharf after and other markets
Once you’ve finished browsing, take a wander down to the waterfront. Constitution Dock is just around the corner, and you’ll spot fishing boats unloading the morning’s catch or selling fresh seafood straight off the deck. Grab some fish and chips and enjoy the harbour view.
Salamanca Market isn’t the only great market happening in Hobart. If you would like another market to taste some of the finest local produce, check out the Farmsgate market. It's a farmers' market that the locals go to for fresh seasonal produce and baked goods. It happens every Sunday, from 8:30 AM until 1 PM, between Elizabeth and Murray Street.
#4
Enjoy the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
Just a few minutes out of the city centre, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are one of the most peaceful and scenic fun activities in Hobart. Spread across 14 hectares on the edge of the River Derwent, this green haven offers a quiet escape right in the middle of the city
The gardens are home to more than 6,000 species of plants. You’ll find everything from Tasmanian native flora and heritage fruit trees to ornamental flowers, rare palms, and one of the world’s only subantarctic plant houses. It’s a place that changes with the seasons, so there’s always something new blooming or turning colour.
One of the best parts? It’s completely free to enter, and the vibe is as relaxed as it gets. Locals come here to unwind, and travellers often find it’s the perfect mid-morning stop to reset after a few busy days of sightseeing.
What to explore in the gardens:
- The Subantarctic Plant House. A chilled, foggy space growing real plants from Macquarie Island
- The Lily Pond. Surrounded by shaded seats, flowering plants and weeping trees
- Japanese Garden and maple. Especially colourful during autumn
- Eardley-Wilmot Wall. A historic sandstone feature once part of Hobart’s water system
- French Explorers’ Garden. Commemorating early European navigators
- Cactus and Succulent House. With rare, hardy specimens from around the world
- Herb garden and veggie beds. Often buzzing with bees and butterflies
- Native Tasmania section. Showcasing plants found nowhere else on Earth
There are also events, workshops, and rotating garden exhibitions throughout the year, including bonsai shows, plant sales and guided walks hosted by horticulturists.
Bonus tip: Pack a picnic or enjoy the café
The garden is a great place to host your picnic. Stop by a local bakery before you arrive, or grab some nibbles from the Tasmania grocery chain, Hill Street Grocers, there is one in NewTown not too far from the botanical gardens . The gardens have plenty of grassy hills, hidden benches, and shaded picnic areas to set up your own peaceful lunch. If you prefer something warm or fancy a local tea blend, the on-site Sprout café offers lovely garden views and a seasonal menu using Tasmanian produce.
Planning your visit
Parking is easy when you’ve got your own Alice hire car. There’s a dedicated car park right at the main entrance, and once you’re inside, it’s all flat walking and easy paths, which is perfect for families, older travellers or anyone looking to stretch their legs in calm surroundings.
The botanical gardens are open every day from 8 AM to 5 PM.
#5
Explore the History Behind Port Arthur
If you’re even slightly curious about Australia’s convict past, Port Arthur is one of the most moving attractions near Hobart you can visit. Located about 90 minutes south-east of the city on the Tasman Peninsula, this World Heritage-listed site was once a penal settlement and is now a powerful window into Tasmania’s colonial history.
The grounds are vast and beautifully kept. You’ll walk past the crumbling sandstone walls of the prison, stroll through restored cottages once used by officers and families, and gaze out across quiet waters that once held arriving ships filled with convicts.
What makes Port Arthur so unique is how it manages to hold heavy history while still being incredibly scenic. The ruins are surrounded by rolling lawns, shady trees and a coastline that looks more like a painting than a punishment.
Highlights of the Port Arthur experience:
- Introductory walking tour, included in most entry tickets and full of stories that bring the ruins to life
- Isle of the Dead harbour cruise. Short boat trip around the prison island where convicts and staff were buried
- Point Puer Boys’ Prison ruins. A separate site for young male prisoners, unique to the British Empire
- Separate Prison building. Known for its harsh solitary confinement system
- Restored buildings like the Commandant’s House and Guard Tower
- Interpretive centre and museum. Interactive displays, artefacts and well-documented personal histories
- Memorial Garden. Built to honour those affected by the 1996 tragedy, offering a quiet space for reflection
- Night-time ghost tours> Not just spooky fun, but full of historical depth
Planning your visit
A trip to Port Arthur by itself will take a good part of a day, and driving is the way to get there. However, Port Arthur deserves more than just a quick stop. Give yourself a good half or full day, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and layers. Tasmania’s weather can be sunny one minute and brisk the next.
Bonus tip: Don’t rush it
There are many other attractions in the Tasman Peninsula en-route to Port Arthur. Driving down the Tasman Peninsula is a treat in itself. With your own hire car, you’re free to stop at many stunning spots along the way:
- Tessellated Pavement. A natural stone formation that looks like cracked tiles at low tide
- Eaglehawk Neck. A narrow isthmus that once served as a checkpoint for escaping prisoners
- Tasman Arch and the Blowhole. A dramatic coastal rock formations perfect for a photo stop
- Pirate’s Bay Lookout. A panoramic views across the sea cliffs and coastline
There’s also great food to discover nearby. Dunalley has a seafood café right by the water, and you can grab fresh oysters, flathead or handmade pies along the drive. When you’ve got your own vehicle, you’re free to explore beyond the tour buses and find the best local gems.
#6
Visit Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
For a working wildlife stop near Hobart specialising in rescuing, rehabilitating and exhibiting Tasmania's strange wildlife, Bonorong cannot be overlooked. It is a working sanctuary just off the drive from the city where you can get close up and touch Tasmanian devils, wombats, wallabies, koalas and more, and each visit assists with their rescue and rehabilitation.
What there is to see at Bonorong Sanctuary:
- Close-up encounters with Tassie icons: eastern quolls, wombats, Tasmanian devils and pademelons.
- Hand-feed free-range kangaroos (admission at times includes a small pack of roo food).
- Daily presentations and tours featuring keepers and staff with a robust conservation message.
- A 24/7 rescue network and wildlife hospital treating injured and orphaned wildlife.
- A little café and gift shop offering local produce and souvenirs from the sanctuary.
Planning your visit
Bonorong is usually open to the public most days (around 9am–5pm, but check their website for seasonal and special closures). Public tours are included with the admission; if you'd like a behind-the-scenes tour (night tours or feeding), book online in advance as these usually sell out.
It's quite family-friendly and can be a handy half-day distraction.
Location & travel tip
Bonorong is located on Briggs Road, Brighton/Bonorong, a quick drive north of Hobart (take your time for country roads and animal sightings). If doing the day trip, arrive in the morning when the animals are most active, and then go north to Richmond for lunch and historic attractions.
Bonus tip: Be there early to join the first guided tour, have your photo taken with the friendly roos, and buy one of the lovely hand-made local souvenirs in the shop. it's a donation to help support the sanctuary's work.
#7
Take a Tour of Cascade Brewery
Set at the base of kunanyi / Mount Wellington, Cascade Brewery isn’t just Australia’s oldest operating brewery; it’s also one of the most photogenic. The sandstone building stands tall against a backdrop of mountain forest, with ivy creeping up the walls and hops growing in the nearby gardens. It’s a spot that locals love and visitors always remember.
A visit here is one of the most rewarding things to do around Hobart, especially if you enjoy good beer, great food, and local history. Even if you’re not a beer drinker, the setting alone makes it worth the stop.
The guided tour walks you through the brewing process, the heritage of the brand, and the stories of the people who’ve worked here across generations. It ends, of course, with a tasting, or a soft drink if you prefer.
What makes Cascade Brewery special:
- Built in 1824, with over 200 years of brewing history
- Tasting paddles with a mix of ales, lagers and seasonal releases
- Guided tours that explain the brewing process and factory stories
- Heritage gardens and picnic-friendly lawns
- A restaurant and bar serving hearty Tasmanian fare
- Views of Mount Wellington rising behind the brewery
Planning your visit
It’s a short drive from the Hobart CBD. There are two types of tours run, namely a historic tour and a brewery tour. They run several times a day, and bookings are recommended, especially in summer. You’ll need to wear enclosed shoes for safety during the tour. There is parking available near the brewery silos as well as across the road at the Brewery bar.
Bonus tip: Enjoy the drive up and bring your camera
You can easily combine a visit to Brewry with a visit to the top of Mount Wellington. Even if you are not keen on a tour of the Cascade, we recommend visiting the Cascade Brewery Bar, located across the road from the Brewery. It is a wonderful place to try some of the finest brews Tassie has to offer, along with some great food, surrounded by Cascade’s relics and memorabilia, all while enjoying a great view of the historic brewery.
The short drive up to Cascade takes you through South Hobart, one of the city’s prettiest suburbs. There are old stone cottages, leafy streets and great views of the mountain. On your way up or back, consider stopping at Hamlet Café or Macquarie Street Foodstore for a local bite.
#8
Escape to Bruny Island
Bruny Island feels like its own little world, even though it’s just an easy drive and ferry ride away. Known for its wild coastline, towering sea cliffs, fresh produce, and laid-back feel, Bruny is one of the best things to do around Hobart if you’ve got a day or two to spare.
The island is actually made up of two land masses joined by a narrow isthmus called "The Neck." It’s wild, scenic and peaceful, with stunning views and plenty of places to explore. Having a hire car is essential here, as the island is best experienced by driving between stops at your own pace.
Things to do on Bruny Island:
- Climb the steps at The Neck Lookout for panoramic views
- Visit the Bruny Island Cheese Co. for a tasting board
- Stop by Get Shucked for freshly harvested oysters
- Explore the South Bruny National Park for coastal walks
- Check out Cape Bruny Lighthouse for sweeping views of the Southern Ocean
- Spot white wallabies and native birds in Adventure Bay
- Taste local honey, chocolate, and gin at roadside stalls
It’s the kind of place where the drive is just as rewarding as the destination. Roads are mostly sealed, and distances are manageable. Just be prepared for patchy mobile coverage and limited fuel stations.
Planning your visit
Bruny Island is a day trip from Hobart. The ferry to Bruny departs from Kettering, which is about 35 minutes south of Hobart. They run every 20–30 minutes most days. See the timetable here.
The ferry will transport you and the vehicle to Bruny Island. You are allowed to take the vehicle over to Bruny Island.
It is not uncommon to have to wait for the ferry on the way back when lots of people are trying to get back. We recommend not leaving it until the last Ferry for your return.
Bonus tip: Catch the early ferry and stay a night
Catch the early one to make the most of the day, and if you’ve got time, consider staying overnight in a cabin or eco-stay. That way, you can enjoy the sunset over the coast and explore the quieter parts of the island without feeling rushed.
Bruny’s best enjoyed on your own schedule, and with your Alice Car Rental vehicle, you’ll have the freedom to chase the views, follow your appetite, and take all the time you need.
#9
Visit Mount Field National Park
If you’re keen to explore one of the most beautiful natural attractions close to Hobart, make time for Mount Field National Park. Just over an hour’s drive north-west of the city, this park is one of Tasmania’s oldest and most loved. It’s where locals go when they want to breathe deep, take a walk among tall trees, and get off the grid for a while.
Mount Field offers a mix of walking trails, waterfalls, alpine views, and rainforest that feels ancient. You don’t have to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy it either. Some of the best views are only a short stroll from the car park, making it perfect for a relaxed day trip or a spontaneous nature stop during your Tassie road trip.
What to see and do at Mount Field:
- Russell Falls. One of Tasmania’s most photographed waterfalls, just a 10-minute walk through fern-filled forest
- Tall Trees Walk. Wander past towering swamp gums, some of the tallest flowering plants on earth
- Horseshoe Falls. A quieter, tiered waterfall just above Russell Falls
- Lake Dobson. A drive further up the mountain for alpine scenery, snow in winter, and higher-elevation walks
- Local wildlife. Keep your eyes open for pademelons, echidnas and plenty of native birds
- Picnic areas and barbecues. Bring lunch and enjoy a peaceful meal in the fresh mountain air
Mount Field is a true four-season destination. In summer, it’s cool and shaded. In winter, snow dusts the alpine areas. Autumn is especially beautiful when the fagus (Australia’s only cold-climate deciduous tree) turns gold and orange, which is a sight you won’t find anywhere else in the country.
Planning your visit
Visiting Mt Field is a day trip from Hobart. We recommend a pit stop in New Norfolk on the way there or back. The park is open 24 hours, but it’s best visited in Daylight. You will need a park pass to visit, which can be purchased at the information centre on arrival. If you want to spend the night, there are cabins and huts available in the Park as well accommodation close by.
Bonus tip: Take the scenic route through the Derwent Valley
The drive out to Mount Field passes through New Norfolk and the Derwent Valley, a region full of small towns, farm stalls and river views. Stop by a bakery or antique store on the way. If you’re heading back in the late afternoon, golden hour across the valley is pure magic.
Having a hire car makes all the difference here. You can set your own pace, avoid the bus crowds, and explore parts of the park that tours often skip.
#10
Explore Hobart’s Waterfront & Constitution Dock
To really feel the soul of the city, you’ve got to spend time down at the waterfront. Hobart’s harbour has always been central to its identity. Fishing boats, Antarctic vessels, tall ships and luxury yachts all come through here. It’s not just picturesque, it’s full of life, history and good food.
Constitution Dock is one of the best-loved attractions near Hobart, especially during summer and around the time of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Even outside of events, it’s a lovely place to walk, grab a bite, and watch the water shift colours as the light changes through the day.
Things to do along Hobart’s waterfront:
- Grab seafood straight off the boats. Mures and Flippers serve up fresh fish and chips, oysters and calamari
- Try Tasmania’s home-grown ice-creams at Van Diemens ice creamery
- Walk to Brooke Street Pier. A floating building with shops, bars and ferry departures for MONA
- Admire the historic sandstone buildings. Including the old IXL jam factory now home to the Henry Jones Art Hotel
- Visit the Maritime Museum of Tasmania. A small but fascinating look at Hobart’s nautical history
- Stroll around Victoria Dock and Franklin Wharf. Especially lovely at sunset or early morning
- Watch boats come and go. Including big Antarctic research vessels docked before heading south
It’s the perfect place to start or end your day, with cafes and restaurants that look out over the water. In the evening, fairy lights come on around the docks, and the mood shifts into something slower and softer.
Planning your visit
Parking is available around Salamanca Place, at the fisherman's market carpark and the Hunter Street area. With your Alice Car Rental vehicle, you’ll have the freedom to loop around, find a good spot, and explore the waterfront without being rushed.
Bonus tip: Park nearby and wander
If you’re into photography, early mornings are fantastic for catching the golden light on the water and reflections of the old buildings. The city wakes up slowly here, and it’s a peaceful time to take it all in before the markets open or the cafes fill up.
Your Hobart Adventure Awaits!
That’s our list of the top 10 things to do in Hobart, including day trips, hidden gems, and must-see stops that are best explored with a car and a curious spirit. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or taking your time with a full Tasmanian road trip, Hobart is the perfect starting point.
The beauty of this city is how much it offers in such a compact space. Hiring a car in Hobart gives you the flexibility to take the scenic route, linger in the places you love, and find your own version of Tasmania. And at Alice Car Rental, that’s exactly what we’re here for. We are here to help you explore this island your way, with honest service and local know-how to back you up.
