Hobart

Things to do in Hobart

Hobart is the small but bustling capital city of Australia’s island state, Tasmania. Previously overlooked by domestic and international tourists alike, Hobart has recently built itself a reputation as one of Australia’s best tourist cities.

Nestled towards the bottom of the island state, Hobart’s modern CBD starkly contrasts its convict heritage. Wandering the city, you’ll find plenty of modern cafes and high-end restaurants serving delicious meals and trendy bars pouring local brews. Walking through the city’s laneways you will find boutique shopping and eclectic street art. The silhouette of Mount Wellington provides the perfect backdrop for all your city pictures.

For those who enjoy the unusual, a visit to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is a must. MONA knows that going to an art gallery can be bland, so they’re bringing nothing but the weird, the wonderful, and the confronting. Grab a glass of wine from their on-site bar and let yourself be shocked, confused, and intrigued by the artworks displayed. Journey through the gallery using their O devices to learn more about the works and vote on if you ‘Love’ or ‘Hate’ each piece. You’ll be surprised how passionate people are about the things they don’t like!

If you’re in Hobart over the weekend, you must attend the Salamanca Market on Saturday. Over 300 stalls fill Salamanca Place with local produce, handmade wares, and vintage items. As you wind through the rows of stalls, buskers gentling strumming in alleyways and alcoves will serenade you. The market is the best place for you to experience all the best goods Tasmania offers.

Walking along the Hobart Waterfront you’ll come to Battery Point, a historic village centre that was one of Tasmania’s first European settlements. Walking through the village, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time. Many of the original buildings still stand, and the small village centre has retained its original layout. Australia’s best-preserved colonial-era suburb is a must-see, walk down as the sun is setting to see the buildings illuminate with the golden light.

If you want to escape the city, then a visit to Mount Wellington is the perfect thing for you! Open every day of the year, there are several signposted tracks heading up to the peak. No matter your fitness level or time available, there’s a track to suit your needs. For those who love the outdoors, there are a variety of bushwalking, bike riding, and rock-climbing tracks. Always be sure to check warnings and adhere to signage.

What better way to end your day than dinner at one of Hobart’s delightful restaurants? As Hobart has become an increasingly popular destination, its food scene has exploded. If you struggle to choose from a menu, why not settle down for dinner at Deir Makr. Serving only a tasting menu, their chefs will make all the decisions for you. All you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the stream of impeccable local produce. For something more homely, but just as decadent, head to the walk-in only bar, Sonny. Here you will find rich homemade pastas and freshly sliced prosciutto paired with only the best local and imported wines.

No trip to Tasmania is complete without a visit to Hobart. Leave yourself a few days to explore and enjoy everything the city has to offer.