Hobart is the kind of place that’s easy to fall in love with. You don’t need a packed itinerary or weeks of planning to make the most of it. The city is a perfect balance of nature, rich history, architecture and world-class food! So, if you’re travelling to Tasmania this year, check out these experiences to explore Hobart.
Hobart Sightseeing City Tours
If you’re a first time visitor and want a solid introduction to Hobart, a guided city tour is a smart place to start. Local guides bring the city’s stories to life, from its colonial past to its modern food and arts scene.
You can either choose walking tours with a guide that focus on key city sites and famous districts, or the hop-on hop-off bus tours that offer a bit more flexibility and have commentary in multiple languages and a 24-hour ticket option!
Hobart Cruises On The Derwent River
Though beautiful from land, Hobart looks different from the water, and that’s what makes Hobart cruises on the Derwent River worth doing. As the boat moves along the river, the city and its star attractions slowly give way to bushland, waterfront homes and harbour views that you don’t get from the streets.
The cruises often offer commentary about the region and it’s a calm, comfortable way to sightsee, especially if you want a break from walking. You don’t need to navigate through crowds and it works when you’re travelling in groups with mixed ages.
Day Trips To Nearby Islands – Bruny Island & Tasman Island
Hobart also serves as a gateway to several remote islands, making day trips across the water a popular part of any visit. Guided tours and regular ferry services depart from the Hobart waterfront, offering easy access to these nearby escapes. You can explore at your own pace or leave the logistics to a guide who knows the region well.
Being just an hour away from Hobart, Bruny Island is always a favourite, loved for its wildlife encounters, dramatic coastal scenery and celebrated local produce. Tasman Island offers a very different experience, with a quieter atmosphere defined by open landscapes, historic ruins and frequent sightings of native wildlife. These islands showcase the wild side of Tasmania and offer a perspective of Hobart that you won’t get anywhere in the city.
Visit Iconic Attractions Like MONA, Salamanca Place & More
Some things to do in Hobart are non-negotiable. Salamanca Place is made for a casual visit, especially on Saturdays when the markets take over. The precinct is known for its mix of restaurants, craft shops, and historic pubs. MONA continues to surprise visitors with its bold and unconventional exhibitions, even for those who don’t usually gravitate toward art galleries.
Port Arthur is a must-do for history lovers, particularly if you don’t mind the ghost stories and eerie atmosphere said to linger there. For the best views in town, Kunanyi / Mount Wellington is hard to beat. The lookout is easy to reach and delivers sweeping views across Hobart and the surrounding waterways.
Self-Guided Walks Around The City
If you’re looking for the simplest way to enjoy Hobart, you should walk it. Neighbourhoods like Battery Point and the waterfront are full of character and exploring on foot lets you notice the little things, from heritage buildings to hole-in-the-wall cafes.
There’s no schedule to stick to or any pressure to see everything at once. You can linger over a coffee, detour to take some instagrammable pictures or just watch the boats drift by from the harbourfront. You get to enjoy the city at your pace and let Hobart unfold all around you.
So if you’re planning a Hobart trip in 2026 and want experiences that are enjoyable and easy, these are a great place to start. Less organising, more exploring and plenty of time to be Tassie!
