Tasmania

Oceania

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Australia

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Tasmania

Tasmania, often referred to as the “Apple Isle,” is surrounded by the Southern Ocean, the Tasman Sea, and the Bass Strait. Its isolation from mainland Australia has nurtured a unique ecosystem, home to many plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth. Despite its compact size, Tasmania offers a remarkable diversity of environments, from rugged mountains to ancient rainforests and pristine beaches, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Many of these wild landscapes are protected as part of Tasmania’s World Heritage-listed wilderness areas, underscoring their global significance. Beyond its natural wonders, Tasmania boasts a rich cultural heritage and a welcoming community. The island’s residents are known for their warm hospitality and deep connection to their beautiful surroundings. Visitors to Tasmania can explore iconic places like Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, where breathtaking hikes lead through alpine landscapes. The stunning Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park is another must-see, offering crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. For a glimpse into Tasmania’s colonial past, a visit to the historic town of Port Arthur is essential, with its well-preserved convict sites and museums. Tasmania’s vibrant arts scene is showcased in Hobart, where you can visit the world-renowned Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), or stroll through Salamanca Market to find local crafts and delicious food. Whether you're drawn to Tasmania’s natural beauty, unique wildlife, or rich culture, the island offers something special for every visitor.

Travel Tips for Tasmania

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Tasmania

A guide to Tasmania's local transportation

Car Rentals

Campervan

Bus

Taxi

Cycling

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Tasmania. It gives you the flexibility to visit remote areas, national parks, and scenic routes at your own pace. Major car rental companies operate in Hobart, Launceston, and at the airports.

Practical Tips for Tasmania

Things to prepare and best way to visit

How to get to Tasmania?

To reach Tasmania, the quickest option is flying. Major Australian cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane offer direct flights to Hobart, Launceston, Devonport, and Burnie. Flights from Melbourne take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne to Devonport. This journey takes 9-11 hours and allows you to bring a vehicle, offering a more scenic and leisurely travel experience.

What to eat in Tasmania?

Tasmania’s cuisine is renowned for its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced produce and seafood, both farmed on the island and caught off its shores. The island’s fertile lands and pristine waters contribute to the high quality of ingredients used in Tasmanian dishes. Weekly markets, such as Hobart's famous Salamanca Market, showcase a wide variety of food stalls offering everything from raw ingredients to prepared meals. Local restaurants often incorporate regional specialties like Tasmanian Atlantic salmon, wild abalone, black truffles, and leatherwood honey into their menus, giving visitors a true taste of the island. Notable dining spots include Hobart’s Landscape Restaurant & Grill and Blue Eye, where local ingredients are celebrated in contemporary dishes. In Launceston, Black Cow Bistro and Cataract on Paterson are known for their focus on regional flavors, while The Rectory and Mrs Jones Restaurant Bar Lounge in Devonport offer unique takes on Tasmanian cuisine, including traditional dishes like scallop pie. Tasmania’s pure, clean water is also ideal for crafting distilled spirits. The island is home to a growing number of distilleries producing high-quality whiskey, vodka, and gin. Additionally, Tasmania boasts a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries scattered across the island, each offering unique brews that reflect the character of the region.

What are the must-visit places in Tasmania?

For nature lovers, the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its breath-taking scenery, including the iconic Cradle Mountain and the serene Lake St Clair. If you’re interested in history, don’t miss the Port Arthur Historic Site. This former penal colony, located on the Tasman Peninsula, offers a fascinating glimpse into Tasmania’s convict past. Art enthusiasts should make a beeline for the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). This cutting-edge museum, located in Hobart, Tasmania’s capital, is home to a diverse collection of contemporary art and antiquities. One such hidden treasure is the Tarkine Rainforest. This vast wilderness area in Tasmania’s northwest is one of the world’s last temperate rainforests. Here, you can explore ancient forests, discover hidden waterfalls, and spot unique wildlife.

How many days to spend in Tasmania?

A week is a good amount of time for a first visit to Tasmania, giving you the chance to explore Hobart, experience a few national parks, and enjoy some cultural and culinary highlights. If you have extra time, you can venture further, exploring the island’s north-west or the scenic east coast.

Is Tasmania worth visiting in winter?

Winter in Tasmania can be quite chilly, it's also a uniquely enchanting time to visit. Snow frequently blankets the highlands, turning the landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland—a rare and memorable sight in Australia. With fewer tourists during the winter months, it's an ideal time to explore Tasmania’s attractions without the usual crowds. Winter also offers special events and experiences that you won’t find at other times of the year.