Resting between the majestic Mount Wellington and the idyllic Derwent River, Hobart ranks as the second-oldest capital in Australia and serves as the vibrant cultural center of Tasmania. Hobart's climate offers four discernible seasons, with mild summers averaging around 21°C (70°F) and comfortably cool winters occasionally hitting as low as 12°C (54°F). This lends the city to exciting year-round adventure.
The charm exuding from Hobart comes from the unique fusion of its rich colonial history and modern culture. Despite its compact size, it is the home of thrilling sites—from its sandstone warehouses and bustling arts sphere to its top-rated cuisine. The slow, relaxed pace of local life allows both locals and tourists to savor its maritime heritage and contemporary creative influences.
A particularly remarkable attraction is the MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), an underground treasure that has pushed Hobart into the global cultural limelight. Every Saturday, the historic Salamanca Market comes alive with the sale of local agriculture, handmade items, and Tasmania's famous cool-climate wines. Seafood lovers will appreciate the abundance of fresh produce, particularly the local oysters and wild-caught salmon.
Put the jaw-dropping kunanyi/Mount Wellington summit on your must-visit list, with its panoramic city views extending beyond the horizon. Discover Tasmania's intricate history visualized through the preserved colonial architecture of Battery Point and the immersive Port Arthur Historic Site. If you love off-beat experiences, try to coincide your visit with the Dark Mofo winter festival, a unique celebration of the area's relationship with light and darkness.
The primary public transit system is the Hobart Metro Tasmania Buses. Grab a Greencard for affordable travel rates or make your payment in cash. The schedules run regular intervals between the city center and key suburbs. However, the service frequency drops during evenings and weekends.
The period from December to March provides balmy weather and the opportunity to experience significant events like the MONA FOMA. The highly anticipated Dark Mofo festival occurs in June, although the weather can be chilly.
Jump on the regular SkyBus shuttle service, which runs between the airport and city center. As an alternative, both taxis and rideshares are available, and they typically complete the journey in about 20 minutes.
While it's generally less costly than mainland Australian cities, the prices for accommodation and meals can spike during peak seasons and festival periods.
A car is not essential for city exploration but may be convenient for visiting sites such as Mount Wellington or the wineries in the Huon Valley.
Tasmanians are highly environmental-conscious and appreciate visitors who respect nature. Tipping is not mandatory but is generally appreciated for good service.
Travel Tips for Hobart
Explore Hobart