Hobart, Australia Travel Guide

Discover Hobart, Tasmania's charming capital, offering a blend of historic sites, vibrant arts, delectable cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes.

Nestled at the foot of Mount Wellington, Hobart is a city that seamlessly blends history, nature, and modernity. As the capital of Tasmania, it offers a rich palette of experiences for every traveler. Stroll along the historic Salamanca Place, where Georgian sandstone warehouses have been transformed into chic galleries, cafes, and craft shops. Every Saturday, the Salamanca Market bursts into life, with local artisans showcasing their unique products, from handmade crafts to gourmet foods. Hobart's waterfront is a hive of activity, with fishing boats, yachts, and ferries dotting the harbor. Here, you can catch a ferry to the renowned MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), which offers a provocative and immersive art experience. The city's culinary scene is equally vibrant, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced produce. Dine at one of the many waterfront restaurants and enjoy a feast of seafood delicacies, complemented by fine Tasmanian wines. For nature lovers, Hobart serves as the gateway to some of Tasmania's most breathtaking landscapes. A short drive will take you to Mount Wellington, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and beyond. The nearby Huon Valley offers lush forests, winding rivers, and charming villages. Whether you're exploring the city or venturing into the wild, Hobart promises an unforgettable adventure.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hobart.

Visit Salamanca Market on a Saturday morning to experience local culture and find unique souvenirs.
Take the ferry to MONA early to avoid the crowds and have ample time to explore the exhibits.
Dress in layers when visiting Mount Wellington; the weather can change rapidly.
Book a table at popular waterfront restaurants in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Rent a car to explore the surrounding regions like Huon Valley and Bruny Island for a fuller Tasmanian experience.

Explore Hobart: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Hobart

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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MONA

Explore the captivating fusion of art, architecture, and cuisine at MONA, Tasmania's premier museum and cultural attraction.

4.4

Salamanca Market

Discover the colorful Salamanca Market in Hobart, where local artisans, fresh produce, and gourmet food come together every Saturday for an unforgettable experience.

4.5

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

Explore the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens in Hobart, a beautiful sanctuary featuring diverse plant species and breathtaking landscapes.

4.7

Wrest Point

Discover Wrest Point: A vibrant hub in Sandy Bay, Tasmania, featuring luxurious accommodations, fine dining, a casino, and live entertainment.

4.1

Best landmarks in Hobart

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Best Landmarks

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MONA

Explore MONA, Tasmania's revolutionary art museum that redefines the boundaries of contemporary and ancient art in a breathtaking setting.

4.4

Salamanca Market

Discover the heart of Hobart at Salamanca Market, where fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local culture come together every Saturday.

4.5

Wellington Park

Explore the natural wonders of Wellington Park, a stunning nature preserve in Tasmania, featuring breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.

4.8

Richmond Bridge

Explore Richmond Bridge, Tasmania's oldest stone arch bridge, and enjoy stunning views, rich history, and charming local attractions in a picturesque setting.

4.6

Best restaurants in Hobart

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Get Shucked

Discover fresh oysters and local seafood at Get Shucked on Bruny Island, where stunning views meet exceptional Tasmanian flavors.

4.7

Drunken Admiral

Experience exquisite Tasmanian seafood at Drunken Admiral – where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views in Hobart.

4.3

Bar Wa Izakaya

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine in Hobart at Bar Wa Izakaya, where delicious flavors meet vibrant atmosphere.

4.7

Urban Greek

Experience the essence of Greece at Urban Greek in Hobart—where traditional recipes meet modern dining in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.7

Best bars in Hobart

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In The Hanging Garden

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of In The Hanging Garden, a quintessential Hobart bar and restaurant offering live music and delightful cuisine in a charming setting.

4.6

Hope & Anchor Hotel

Discover the culinary delights of Hope & Anchor Hotel in Hobart, a perfect blend of pub culture, exceptional steaks, and local craft beers.

4.3

The Den Salamanca

Experience the best of Hobart's nightlife at The Den Salamanca, where exquisite cocktails and delicious cuisine await in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

Grape Food and Wine Bar

Experience the best of Tasmanian wines and delightful tapas at Grape Food and Wine Bar, a lively hub for food lovers in Hobart.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Hobart

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The Grand Poobah

Experience the lively atmosphere of The Grand Poobah, Hobart's favorite bar for craft beers, cocktails, and unforgettable nights out.

4.1

Mobius Lounge Bar

Discover the eclectic ambiance and vibrant nightlife at Mobius Lounge Bar in Hobart, Tasmania, where every night is an unforgettable experience.

4.0

Observatory Bar

Dive into Hobart's nightlife at Observatory Bar, a dynamic night club and pub offering stunning waterfront views and a vibrant atmosphere.

2.4

Mango Bar & Karaoke

Experience vibrant nightlife at Mango Bar & Karaoke in Hobart, where great drinks and karaoke fun come together for an unforgettable evening.

4.2

Best shops in Hobart

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The Cat & Fiddle Arcade

Discover the vibrant Cat & Fiddle Arcade in Hobart, Tasmania, where shopping, dining, and local culture come together in a delightful experience.

4.2

Brooke Street Pier

Experience the charm of Brooke Street Pier, a vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and stunning waterfront views in Hobart, Tasmania.

4.4

Myer Hobart

Discover the ultimate shopping destination in Hobart with Myer, featuring fashion, homewares, cosmetics, and toys for all ages.

4.2

Elizabeth Street Mall

Discover Elizabeth Street Mall in Hobart, a vibrant shopping haven with unique stores, delightful dining, and lively street performances to enrich your travel experience.

4.1

Explore Hobart on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Hobart, mapped for you.

Hobart Essentials

Hobart is accessible via Hobart International Airport (HBA), which is approximately 17 kilometers from the city center. The airport serves domestic flights from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, as well as limited international flights. Alternatively, you can reach Hobart by ferry from Melbourne to Devonport and then drive or take a bus to Hobart. Another option is to drive from other parts of Tasmania, as Hobart is well-connected by road.
Hobart offers various modes of transportation to help you get around. Metro Tasmania operates a network of buses that cover the city and surrounding areas. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available. For a more flexible option, consider renting a car, especially if you plan to explore beyond the city. Cycling is also popular, with bike lanes and scenic routes available.
The official currency in Hobart is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are available throughout the city. Contactless payments and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also commonly used. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets where card payments may not be accepted.
Hobart is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Areas like North Hobart and Battery Point are safe for tourists, but it's always good to stay aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 000 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Hobart has several hospitals, including the Royal Hobart Hospital, which offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable, and wear comfortable walking shoes. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting religious or historical sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites. Public Transport: Do have your payment ready when boarding buses and be courteous to drivers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Australians are generally informal but polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and wines. Don't tip; tipping is not a common practice in Australia.
To experience Hobart like a local, visit the Salamanca Market on Saturdays for fresh produce, crafts, and local delicacies. Take a stroll through the historic Battery Point neighborhood and enjoy the colonial architecture. Attend a local event or festival, such as the Taste of Tasmania or Dark Mofo, to immerse yourself in the local culture. For a unique experience, hike up Mount Wellington for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.

When is the best time to visit Hobart?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Hobart

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Hobart. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloG'day
  [g'day]
- GoodbyeCatch ya later
  [catch ya later]
- YesYeah
  [yeah]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [please/no worries]
- Thank youCheers
  [cheers]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pardon me/my bad]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [how's it going?]
- Fine. And you?Good. How about yourself?
  [good. how about yourself?]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [you speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'll check out the menu, thanks
  [I'll check out the menu, thanks]
- I don't eat meatI'm vego
  [I'm vego]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle the bill, thanks
  [I'll settle the bill, thanks]
- Help!Struth!
  [struth!]
- Go away!Bugger off!
  [bugger off!]
- Call the Police!Ring the coppers!
  [ring the coppers!]
- Call a doctor!Get a quack!
  [get a quack!]
- I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [I'm all turned around]
- I'm illI'm crook
  [I'm crook]
- I'd like to buy...I'm keen to buy...
  [I'm keen to buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing, cheers
  [just browsing, cheers]
- How much is it?What's the damage?
  [what's the damage?]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [that's a bit steep]
- Can you lower the price?Any chance of a discount?
  [any chance of a discount?]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one on the dot
  [it's one on the dot]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
- AfternoonArvo
  [arvo]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
- YesterdayYesty
  [yesty]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorra
  [tomorra]
- 1One
  [one]
- 2Two
  [two]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [what's the addy?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out (on the map)?
  [can you point it out (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [when's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

History of Hobart

Before European settlement, the area now known as Hobart was inhabited by the Mouheneener people, a band of the South East tribe. The indigenous people had a deep connection with the land and practiced sustainable hunting, gathering, and fishing along the Derwent River. Their rich cultural heritage included intricate storytelling, rock art, and ceremonial traditions that have endured through the centuries.
Hobart was founded in 1804 as a penal colony by Lieutenant Colonel David Collins. Originally named Hobart Town, it was established as a strategic military and trading port. The early settlers faced harsh conditions, including food shortages, native resistance, and isolation. Despite these challenges, Hobart began to grow as a center of commerce and agriculture.
The Black War (1820s–1832) was a period of violent conflict between British colonists and the indigenous Tasmanian people. The conflict resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of the indigenous population. Governor George Arthur established the 'Black Line' in 1830, a coordinated effort to capture the remaining indigenous people, which ultimately led to their removal to settlements like Wybalenna. This period is a dark chapter in Hobart's history, reflecting the broader impact of colonization on Aboriginal cultures.
In the 19th century, Hobart became a bustling hub for the whaling industry, attracting ships and sailors from around the world. The port's strategic location and deep waters made it ideal for docking large vessels. The maritime industry brought wealth and growth to Hobart, leading to the development of infrastructure, including wharves, warehouses, and shipyards. This era left a lasting legacy on the city's architecture and economy.
As a penal colony, Hobart received thousands of convicts transported from Britain. The convict labor was instrumental in building much of the city's early infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public buildings. The Cascades Female Factory, a significant site, housed female convicts and their children. Many of these historic sites are now preserved as part of Hobart's rich convict heritage, offering insight into the lives of those who helped shape the city.
With the federation of Australia in 1901, Hobart became the capital of the state of Tasmania. The city continued to grow and modernize, with advancements in transportation, industry, and public services. Hobart's unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities began to attract tourists, artists, and scholars, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
In recent decades, Hobart has experienced a cultural renaissance, driven by a burgeoning arts scene and culinary innovation. The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), opened in 2011, has become a world-renowned cultural institution, attracting visitors from across the globe. The city's annual festivals, such as Dark Mofo and the Taste of Tasmania, celebrate its rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty.