Activities in Hobart, Australia

The best time to visit Hobart is during the summer months of December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect crowded attractions and higher prices. Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) are also great times to visit when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner.

Some must-see attractions in Hobart include the iconic Salamanca Market, the historic Battery Point neighborhood, the stunning view from the top of Mount Wellington, and the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), which is known for its provocative and boundary-pushing exhibits.

Hobart is surrounded by natural beauty, so outdoor activities abound. You can go hiking on Mount Wellington, take a scenic drive along the Tasman Peninsula, go kayaking in the Derwent River, or take a boat cruise to see dolphins and seals in the wild.

Some family-friendly activities in Hobart include visiting the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to see kangaroos and Tasmanian devils up close, exploring the interactive exhibits at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, taking a ride on the historic steam train at the Derwent Valley Railway, or playing at one of the many parks and playgrounds around the city.

Hobart has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many unique experiences to be had. You can attend one of the many festivals and events held throughout the year, such as the Taste of Tasmania food and wine festival or the Dark Mofo winter festival. You can also visit the Cascade Brewery, which has been brewing beer since 1824 and offers tours and tastings.

Some of the best restaurants in Hobart include Templo, which serves Italian-inspired cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, Franklin, which offers contemporary Australian cuisine in a stylish setting, and Dier Makr, which serves creative and innovative dishes made with seasonal and local ingredients.

There are plenty of budget-friendly activities in Hobart. You can take a self-guided walking tour of the city, visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (which is free), hike Mount Wellington or explore the city's parks and gardens. You can also visit the Salamanca Market, which is free to enter and offers a wide variety of locally made crafts and food.

Some luxury accommodations in Hobart include the Henry Jones Art Hotel, which is housed in a historic waterfront building and features contemporary art and design, the Islington Hotel, which is set in an 1847 Regency mansion surrounded by gardens, and the MACq 01 Hotel, which offers stunning waterfront views and personalized service.

There are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations in Hobart, including backpacker hostels such as The Pickled Frog and Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse, as well as budget hotels like the Travelodge Hotel Hobart and the Hobart Tower Motel.

Some day trips to take from Hobart include the stunningly beautiful Port Arthur Historic Site, the picturesque town of Richmond with its convict-built bridge, and the charming village of New Norfolk, which is surrounded by vineyards and orchards.