Discover the Rich Heritage of Port Arthur Historic Site
Explore the haunting beauty and rich history of Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure in Tasmania that reveals Australia’s convict past.
Port Arthur Historic Site is a captivating historical landmark located in Tasmania, Australia. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers visitors a unique glimpse into Australia's convict past, complete with preserved buildings, guided tours, and hauntingly beautiful landscapes. Immerse yourself in history while enjoying the serene environment and various amenities available on site.
A brief summary to Port Arthur Historic Site
- Historic Site, Visitor Centre, Port Arthur, TAS, 7182, AU
- +61362512310
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds for a more intimate experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the site is expansive and involves a fair amount of walking.
- Take advantage of the guided tours for a deeper understanding of the site's historical context.
- Don't miss the evening ghost tours for a unique and spooky perspective on the historic site.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change quickly in Tasmania.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, take the Arthur Highway (A9) heading south. Follow the signs for Port Arthur. As you approach Port Arthur, continue straight until you reach the Historic Site entrance on your left at 'Historic Site, Visitor Centre, Port Arthur TAS 7182'. There is a parking lot available onsite. Note that there is an entry fee to the site, so be prepared for this cost. The site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
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Public Transportation
To reach Port Arthur Historic Site via public transport, you can catch a bus from Hobart. The bus service usually departs from the Hobart Bus Station. Look for the 'Port Arthur' or 'Eaglehawk Neck' routes. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive at the Port Arthur bus stop, it is a short walk to the Historic Site entrance. Be sure to check the bus schedule for return times. There may be a fare for the bus, so confirm the cost at the bus station or on the service provider's website.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route, you can book a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber) from any location in the Tasman Peninsula to Port Arthur. This option is more expensive than public transport but offers convenience. Ensure you provide the driver with the address: 'Historic Site, Visitor Centre, Port Arthur TAS 7182'. Expect to pay a higher fare if traveling from further locations within the peninsula.
Discover more about Port Arthur Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Isle of the Dead
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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
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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
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tasmanian wilderness experiences
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Tasman Island Cruises
0.6 km
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Stewarts Bay Beach
1.0 km
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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
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Port Arthur
3.3 km
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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
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Commandants Table Restaurant
0.5 km
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On the Bay Restaurant
0.9 km
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The Fox and Hounds Restaurant
2.2 km
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McHenry Distillery
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Fish Lips Cafe & Accommodation
10.1 km
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Lucky Ducks Cafe
10.1 km
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Little Norfolk Bay Bistro & Chalets
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Nubeena Tavern
10.2 km
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Doo-lishus
14.7 km
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Blue Seal Seafood Shack
15.2 km
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Lufra Bistro
16.3 km
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Lufra Hotel and Apartments
16.4 km
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Dunalley Seaside Fish & Chips
28.4 km
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The Cannery
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Port Arthur Historic Site Gift Shop
0.0 km
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Port Arthur General Store & Takeaways
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IGA X-Press Nubeena (Seabreeze)
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IGA Everyday Nubeena
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Natural Horse World Store - Shop online anytime or by appointment.
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South East Tasmania Salvos Thrift Shop
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Fancy Fabric
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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
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Seven Mile Beach Store
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Runway News
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Tasmania & Beyond
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Bruny Island Gifts
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The Faerie Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fox and Hounds Historic Hotel
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Diggers Kitchen
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NINCH CIDER
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Dunalley Hotel
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Midway Point Tavern
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The Birdcage Bar
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Uni Bar
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The Salamanca Whisky Bar
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The Den Salamanca
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The Brick Factory
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The Story Bar
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Grape Food and Wine Bar
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Botanica Bar Salamanca
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Jack Greene Bar
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Society Salamanca
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