Port Arthur Historic Site: A Journey Through Time
Explore the rich history of Australia's convict past at Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure on Tasmania's picturesque coast.
Nestled on the Tasman Peninsula, the Port Arthur Historic Site is a captivating glimpse into Australia's colonial past. As one of the most significant heritage sites in the country, it showcases beautifully preserved ruins and a rich history that tells the story of convict life, the struggles, and the triumphs of early settlers. Visitors can explore the expansive grounds, view fascinating exhibits, and even enjoy scenic walks along the picturesque coastline.
A brief summary to Port Arthur Historic Site
- Historic Site, Visitor Centre, Port Arthur, TAS, 7182, AU
- +61362512310
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the expansive grounds.
- Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth historical insights.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and historic architecture.
- Check the schedule for special events or ghost tours during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to the Port Arthur Historic Site, start from any point on Tasman Peninsula. Follow the main road (Safety Cove Road) towards Port Arthur. The site is well-signposted. You will see signs indicating 'Port Arthur Historic Site' as you approach. The drive from Eaglehawk Neck to Port Arthur takes about 20 minutes. There is a parking area available at the site, and the parking is free.
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Public Transportation
For those relying on public transportation, the best option is to take a bus from Hobart. Take the 'Port Arthur' bus service, which departs from the Hobart Bus Station. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. Once you arrive at the Port Arthur bus stop, it’s a short walk (about 10 minutes) to the Historic Site entrance. Make sure to check the bus schedules ahead of time for the most accurate departure times.
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Taxi or Ride-sharing
If you prefer a more direct route, consider taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing service like Uber. Simply book a ride to 'Port Arthur Historic Site, Visitor Centre, Port Arthur TAS 7182'. This option is convenient as it takes you directly to the entrance, and the fare will vary depending on your starting location on the peninsula. Expect to pay around AUD 50-70 from Hobart, depending on traffic.
Discover more about Port Arthur Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Isle of the Dead
1.4 km
Discover the haunting beauty of the Isle of the Dead in Tasmania, a historical island rich in stories and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
Eaglehawk Neck
15.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of Eaglehawk Neck, Tasmania's stunning coastal isthmus.
Tasman Bay National Park Lookout
17.8 km
Experience the stunning vistas and natural beauty at Tasman Bay National Park Lookout in Tasmania, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Iron Pot Lighthouse
36.5 km
Explore the historical Iron Pot Lighthouse, the oldest in Australia, and enjoy stunning coastal views at Tasmania's iconic landmark.
tasmanian wilderness experiences
42.4 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Tasmania with unforgettable wilderness experiences in Rokeby.
The Neck Game Reserve Lookout
42.9 km
Experience the stunning vistas and natural beauty of The Neck Game Reserve Lookout on North Bruny Island, a must-visit destination in Tasmania.
Yogis Lookout
45.7 km
Explore the breathtaking vistas and serene atmosphere at Yogis Lookout in Howrah, Tasmania, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
The Shot Tower Historic Site and The Tower Tearoom
46.6 km
Experience the rich history and breathtaking views at The Shot Tower Historic Site and enjoy delightful refreshments at The Tower Tearoom in Taroona.
The Searchlight
47.4 km
Explore The Searchlight in Sandy Bay, a historic landmark offering breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into Tasmania's maritime history.
Mount Nelson Signal Station
48.0 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Mount Nelson Signal Station, a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
Bellerive Beach
48.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Bellerive Beach, a popular Tasmanian destination known for its golden sands, recreational activities, and stunning views of the Derwent River.
Kangaroo Bluff reserve
49.1 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes of Kangaroo Bluff Reserve, a must-visit historical site in Bellerive, Tasmania.
Old Sandstone Mile Marker
49.8 km
Explore the Old Sandstone Mile Marker in Sandy Bay, Tasmania - a historical landmark that showcases the region's rich heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.
Rosny Point
50.3 km
Explore the breathtaking views and tranquil beauty of Rosny Point, a scenic spot nestled in Tasmania's stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation and photography.
Rosny Hill Lookout
50.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Port Arthur Ghost Tours
0.0 km
Explore the haunting history of Port Arthur with thrilling ghost tours that reveal chilling tales and supernatural encounters in Australia's most notorious penal colony.
The Original Gardens Fountain
0.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of The Original Gardens Fountain in Port Arthur, Tasmania - a perfect blend of nature, history, and tranquility.
Memorial Garden
0.1 km
Explore the serene Memorial Garden in Port Arthur, a beautiful tribute to history nestled in Tasmania's tranquil landscapes.
Government Gardens
0.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical charm of Government Gardens, a serene park in the heart of Port Arthur, Tasmania.
The Penitentiary
0.3 km
Discover the haunting beauty and rich history of The Penitentiary in Port Arthur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key part of Australia's convict heritage.
Scorpion Rock Lookout
0.3 km
Discover the stunning views and historical significance of Scorpion Rock Lookout in Port Arthur, Tasmania, a must-see for nature and history lovers.
Time Capsule
0.4 km
Explore the Time Capsule in Port Arthur and uncover Australia's colonial history amidst stunning natural beauty.
Separate Prison
0.4 km
Uncover the haunting stories of isolation and punishment at the Separate Prison, a key site in Tasmania's convict history.
Limekiln
0.4 km
Discover the historical significance of Limekiln in Port Arthur, Tasmania, where rich tales of early settlers and lime production await.
Tasman Island Cruises
0.6 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich wildlife on the unforgettable Tasman Island Cruises, a must-see attraction in Tasmania.
Stewarts Bay Beach
1.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Stewarts Bay Beach in Port Arthur, Tasmania – a perfect destination for relaxation, exploration, and breathtaking scenery.
Isle of the Dead Cemetery
1.4 km
Explore the Isle of the Dead Cemetery in Port Arthur, Tasmania, where history and serene beauty intertwine in a hauntingly beautiful setting.
Point Puer
1.6 km
Explore Point Puer, a historical landmark in Tasmania, where convict history meets stunning coastal beauty, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Port Arthur
3.3 km
Explore the captivating beauty and rich history of Port Arthur Bay, a stunning coastal destination on Tasmania's Tasman Peninsula.
Safety Cove beach
3.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Safety Cove Beach, a stunning destination in Port Arthur, Tasmania, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Essential places to dine
1830 Restaurant and Bar, Port Arthur
0.0 km
Discover exceptional dining at 1830 Restaurant and Bar, where history meets culinary artistry in Port Arthur.
Commandants Table Restaurant
0.5 km
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On the Bay Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience exquisite Tasmanian cuisine with breathtaking views at On the Bay Restaurant in Port Arthur.
The Fox and Hounds Restaurant
2.2 km
Experience delightful dining at The Fox and Hounds Restaurant in Port Arthur, where local flavors meet stunning scenery.
McHenry Distillery
3.9 km
Discover McHenry Distillery: A Premier Tasmanian Destination for Craft Spirits and Scenic Tasting Experiences.
Fish Lips Cafe & Accommodation
10.1 km
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Lucky Ducks Cafe
10.1 km
Discover Lucky Ducks Cafe in Nubeena - where delicious meals meet stunning views of Parsons Bay in Tasmania's serene landscape.
Little Norfolk Bay Bistro & Chalets
10.1 km
Savor fresh Tasmanian seafood at Little Norfolk Bay Bistro & Chalets while enjoying serene self-catering accommodations amidst stunning natural beauty.
Nubeena Tavern
10.2 km
Discover Tasmanian culinary delights at Nubeena Tavern - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Doo-lishus
14.7 km
Discover authentic Australian flavors at Doo-lishus in Eaglehawk Neck—where Tasmanian cuisine meets stunning coastal views.
Blue Seal Seafood Shack
15.2 km
Discover authentic Tasmanian seafood delights at Blue Seal Seafood Shack—your go-to spot for delicious fish and chips in Eaglehawk Neck.
Lufra Bistro
16.3 km
Experience Tasmania's culinary delights at Lufra Bistro with stunning ocean views and locally sourced flavors.
Lufra Hotel and Apartments
16.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and exceptional comfort at Lufra Hotel and Apartments in Eaglehawk Neck, Tasmania – your gateway to adventure!
Dunalley Seaside Fish & Chips
28.4 km
Savor fresh seafood at Dunalley Seaside Fish & Chips while enjoying stunning Tasmanian coastal views.
The Cannery
28.8 km
Discover the culinary delights of Dunalley at The Cannery, where fresh local ingredients meet exquisite flavors in a charming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Port Arthur Historic Site Gift Shop
0.0 km
Explore the Port Arthur Historic Site Gift Shop for unique souvenirs reflecting Tasmania's rich heritage and stunning natural beauty.
Port Arthur General Store & Takeaways
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Port Arthur General Store & Takeaways, where local goods meet delicious fast food in the heart of Tasmania's historic landscape.
IGA X-Press Nubeena (Seabreeze)
8.6 km
Discover a culinary haven at IGA X-Press Nubeena, where local and Japanese groceries meet in Tasmania's charming supermarket.
IGA Everyday Nubeena
10.2 km
Discover fresh local produce and quality groceries at IGA Everyday Nubeena, your essential stop during your Tasmanian adventure.
Natural Horse World Store - Shop online anytime or by appointment.
17.3 km
Explore the Natural Horse World Store in Tasmania for premium equestrian gear and expert advice to enhance your riding experience.
South East Tasmania Salvos Thrift Shop
35.7 km
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Fancy Fabric
37.5 km
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WILDspace Creations
39.2 km
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Bruny Island Honey
39.4 km
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Eco by design Gifts
40.8 km
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Seven Mile Beach Store
42.3 km
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Runway News
44.3 km
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Tasmania & Beyond
44.3 km
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Bruny Island Gifts
48.3 km
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The Faerie Shop
49.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fox and Hounds Historic Hotel
2.2 km
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Diggers Kitchen
9.3 km
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NINCH CIDER
10.1 km
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Dunalley Hotel
28.3 km
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Midway Point Tavern
46.1 km
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The Birdcage Bar
49.7 km
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Uni Bar
50.6 km
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The Salamanca Whisky Bar
51.0 km
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The Den Salamanca
51.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at The Den Salamanca, Hobart's premier cocktail bar and restaurant for every occasion.
The Brick Factory
51.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at The Brick Factory, Hobart's premier pub for food, music, and good times.
The Story Bar
51.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Tasmania at The Story Bar, where exceptional drinks meet stunning waterfront views in Hobart.
Grape Food and Wine Bar
51.0 km
Experience the best of Tasmanian wines and delightful tapas at Grape Food and Wine Bar, a lively hub for food lovers in Hobart.
Botanica Bar Salamanca
51.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of cocktails, live music, and a cozy beer garden at Botanica Bar Salamanca in Battery Point, Tasmania.
Jack Greene Bar
51.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and gourmet offerings at Jack Greene Bar, a premier destination for drinks and delicious food in Tasmania.
Society Salamanca
51.0 km
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