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Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, local markets, and growing arts scene. It sits along the river Derwent. Shaped by history, creativity, and its natural surroundings, the places to visit in Hobart range from historic sites and museums to scenic lookouts and waterfront areas. Some locations highlight Australia’s convict past, while others focus on Tasmania’s wildlife and landscapes. From exploring world-class museums like MONA to indulging in fresh seafood by the waterfront, Hobart offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Hobart
Here is a list of top places to visit in Hobart, from historic sites to waterfront spots for your next trip to this Australian city:
1. Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
Photo: Dhx1 / Wikimedia Commons
Established in 1818, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is Australia’s second-oldest garden. Covering 14 hectares, it features a mix of native and exotic plants, including a rare collection from subantarctic islands. Visitors can wander through themed sections such as the Japanese Garden and the Conservatory. The gardens are a peaceful retreat, with walking trails, picnic spots, and seasonal exhibitions.
Must-Have Experience: Join a guided tour to learn about rare and endangered plant species
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Hobart Railway Station (2 km)
2. Mount Wellington
Photo: arctanx. Tk / Wikimedia Commons
Standing at 1,271 metres, Mount Wellington offers panoramic views of Hobart and beyond. The drive to the summit winds through changing landscapes, from dense forests to rocky plateaus. At the top, visitors can take in the views from the observation deck or explore walking and cycling trails. The weather here can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is recommended. Snowfall in winter adds another dimension to the experience, while hiking trails make it popular year-round.
Must-Have Experience: Hike the Pinnacle Track for a rewarding climb to the summit
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day
Nearest Railway Station: Hobart Railway Station (5 km)
3. Museum Of Old And New Art (MONA)
Photo: jeffowenphotos / Wikimedia Commons
MONA is Australia’s largest privately funded museum, known for its thought-provoking and unconventional exhibitions. The underground gallery spaces are located on the Berriedale peninsula and create a unique viewing experience. The collection includes contemporary, modern, and ancient works with interactive elements that challenge traditional perspectives on art. The museum also hosts festivals, live performances, and wine tastings.
Must-Have Experience: Attend the annual MONA FOMA festival, featuring experimental music and performances
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Hobart Railway Station (12 km)
4. Salamanca Market
Photo: Ricky Esquivel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Held every Saturday, Salamanca Market is one of Australia’s most famous outdoor markets. With over 300 stalls, it offers everything from handmade crafts and local produce to street food and live performances. The historic sandstone warehouses along Salamanca Place create a fitting backdrop for browsing Tasmanian goods, including wool products, ceramics, and honey.
Must-Have Experience: Try a Tasmanian scallop pie from one of the food stalls
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Hobart International Airport (18 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Hobart Railway Station (1 km)
5. Cascade Brewery
Photo: Rakesh Vyas / Wikimedia Commons
Founded in 1824, Cascade Brewery is the oldest operating brewery in Australia. Set against the backdrop of Mount Wellington, the historic building and its gardens create a great spot for beer lovers and history enthusiasts. Guided tours take visitors through the brewing process, from hops to bottling, and include tastings of Cascade’s signature beers. The brewery also has a restaurant serving local produce paired with its brews, making it an ideal place to relax after the tour.
Must-Have Experience: Join a beer-tasting session to sample a range of Cascade’s craft brews
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Hobart Railway Station (4 km)
6. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: JJ Harrison / Wikimedia Commons
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a refuge for Tasmania’s native animals, allowing visitors to see and interact with species like Tasmanian devils, wombats, and kangaroos. Unlike a traditional zoo, the sanctuary focuses on conservation and rehabilitation, with expert-led tours explaining the threats facing these animals, making Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the educational places to visit in Hobart.
Must-Have Experience: Take a night tour to observe nocturnal animals up close.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Hobart Railway Station (26 km)
7. Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum
Photo: Gary Houston / Wikimedia Commons
This museum is a faithful reconstruction of the huts used in the 1911–1914 Australasian Antarctic Expedition led by Douglas Mawson. Located by Hobart’s waterfront, it provides insight into the extreme conditions early explorers faced. Artifacts, photographs, and displays bring the expedition’s story to life. Visitors can step inside the replica huts and see how the team lived and worked in Antarctica, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in history and exploration.
Must-Have Experience: Join a guided tour to hear firsthand accounts of the expedition’s challenges
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Hobart Railway Station (500 metres)
8. Hobart Waterfront
Photo: Lautreca11 / Wikimedia Commons
Hobart Waterfront is a lively area where historic docks meet modern dining and entertainment. Fresh seafood restaurants, floating fish-and-chip shops, and cafés line the harbour. Visitors can watch fishing boats and Antarctic research vessels dock while enjoying the waterfront scenery. Salamanca Place and Battery Point are nearby, offering additional spots to explore.
Must-Have Experience: Take a sunset cruise on the River Derwent for a new city view
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Hobart Railway Station (500 metres)
9. Tasmanian Museum And Art Gallery
Photo: Owen Allen / Wikimedia Commons
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is one of the great places to visit in Hobart. The exhibits cover everything from Tasmanian Aboriginal heritage to Antarctic exploration and colonial artefacts. The museum’s buildings blend historic and modern architecture, creating an engaging space for learning. Admission is free, making it a great place to explore Tasmania’s past and present without cost.
Must-Have Experience: Visit the Thylacine exhibit to learn about the extinct Tasmanian tiger
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Hobart Railway Station (600 metres)
10. Hobart Convict Penitentiary
Photo: Colin Chick/ Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Built-in the early 1800s, the Hobart Convict Penitentiary was once a major part of Tasmania’s penal system. Visitors can explore solitary confinement cells, underground tunnels, and a former chapel that later served as a courtroom, making it one of the popular places to visit in Hobart.
Must-Have Experience: Join a ghost tour to hear eerie tales of past inmates
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Railway Station: Hobart Railway Station (1 km)
Hobart is a city that blends history, culture, and nature. Each place to visit in Hobart offers a glimpse into its rich heritage and outdoor beauty. Whether you enjoy learning about the past, tasting local food, or exploring the landscape, Hobart has something for every traveller. Plan your trip with TripXL and discover what makes Tasmania’s capital an engaging and rewarding destination.
Cover Photo: Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
