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Guide to Hobart

Aboriginal name: nipaluna (pronounced nip-ah-loona)

Welcome
Aboriginal
Getting to Hobart
When to visit
Accessibility

In Hobart, you can see world-renowned art, eat freshly caught seafood and climb a mountain all in one day.

The Tasmanian capital of Hobart is a dynamic city that surpasses expectations at every turn. Australia’s southernmost capital is brimming with history and bursting with creativity (hello MONA). It boasts an incredible food and wine scene with local produce making the short journey from farm to table, and is fringed by scenic wilderness.

Long before Hobart was called Hobart, the local muwinina and palawa peoples called this area of Tasmania ‘nipaluna.’ No capital letters are used in palawa kani (the traditional language), including place names.

To learn more about Hobart’s First Nations history, take the takara nipaluna – ‘Walking Hobart’ Aboriginal tour. Run by palawa/warlpiri woman Nunami Sculthorpe-Green, this special tour will give you a rich understanding of the palawa experience.

Traditional name: nipaluna (pronounced nip-ah-loona)
Indigenous Peoples: muwinina and palawa peoples
Traditional languages: palawa kani
How to say g’day in palawa kani: ya

The easiest way to reach Hobart is by air. Flights arrive daily from several Australian cities.

Hobart Airport (HBA) is 18km (11mi) from the city and services international and domestic arrivals
Hire cars, rideshare services and taxis are available from passenger terminals
The SkyBus shuttle service to Hobart's city centre departs every 30 minutes

Hobart is a relatively small city, so making your way around is easy. There is a clean and safe public bus network as well as a private ferry to take you to waterfront art museum MONA. You can easily walk to many attractions, and car hire is available for driving further afield on a road trip. Find more information about getting around Hobart.

Hobart has four distinct seasons and each is uniquely beautiful. Luckily for travellers, Hobart’s weather is relatively predictable, making it easy to plan. Overall, expect cooler temperatures year-round when compared with Australia's other capital cities.

High season: Summer (December to February) and winter (June to August)
Low season: Spring (September to November)
Don’t miss: Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race (December)

There are great accessible options for accommodation and attractions throughout Hobart.

Arrival: Staff and facilities are available at Hobart Airport to provide accessibility assistance, including for travellers with hidden disabilities.
Getting around: All public buses are wheelchair accessible in central Hobart. Use the ‘Wheelchair accessible routes only’ option on the Trip Planner tool for buses outside of the city.
Accessible experience highlights: The popular kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer Bus is wheelchair accessible, and the Museum of Old and New Art has a range of accessible facilities, including an app that supports voice-over and screen reader functionality.
Helpful resources: Travellers who are blind or have low vision can access a range of immersive audio guides to Hobart via the Vacayit app. The City of Hobart’s handy mobility map is a great tool for those with limited mobility.

Top things to do in Hobart

Seafood experience with Rob Pennicott, Bruny Island, Tasmania © Tourism Australia

Do a Pennicott Wilderness Journey tour

Tasmania’s towering sea cliffs and neighbouring islands inspire adventurers of all ages. Slide through narrow gaps on purpose-built boats, spot dolphins and seals or pluck fresh seafood straight from the water with Pennicott Wilderness Journeys.

Summit of kunanyi/Mount Wellington in Hobart, TAS © Tourism Australia

Reach the top of Mount Wellington

Cycle, walk or drive up to the summit of kunanyi/Mount Wellington and you’ll be met with astounding views. Take in the city, Bruny Island and the Tasman Peninsula as the sun rises and the mist dissipates. Seek out what the mountain has to offer.

Market stalls at Salamanca Market in Hobart © Tourism Australia

Browse the local markets

From eclectic markets, vintage stores and one-of-a-kind boutiques, you won’t walk away from Hobart empty-handed. Explore the city's hidden laneways and market stalls for unique souvenirs that reflect the city’s history, culture and style.

Tunnel in the Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart © Tourism Australia

Marvel at MONA

Can poo be art? Can a fluffy couch be alive? Find answers to these questions at The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Uncover why this home of eclectic art, fascinating exhibitions and some rather unusual discoveries is a Hobart must-see.

Tasmanian devil at Bonorong Wildlife Park near Hobart © Tourism Tasmania & Rob Burnett

Meet Tasmanian Devils

Tasmania is home to some of the world’s most unique animals. Take the family to visit Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to get up close to Tasmanian devils and learn what makes this, and other native species, so special.

Penitentiary at Port Arthur Historic Site © Alastair Bett

Visit Hobart’s convict sites

Visit World Heritage-listed sites and hear spine-tingling stories of crime and punishment from Tasmania’s convict past. From Port Arthur to the Cascades Female Factory, learn about Australia’s early history in ways that will stay with you forever.

Hobart waterfront at sunset © Luke Tscharke

Wander Hobart’s historic waterfront

Stroll the winding cobblestoned streets past old sandstone warehouses, explore galleries, markets and even a theatre along the way as you uncover the charm of this quaint and historic waterfront neighbourhood central to life in Hobart.

Sunset on Bruny Island in Tasmania © Daniel Tran

Take a trip to Bruny Island

Bruny Island may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to things to see, do and eat. Its natural beauty will fuel the soul while its fresh oysters and delectable cheese will fuel the body. Get a taste for this special place.

Whisky tasting at Old Kempton Distillery near Hobart © Tourism Australia

Taste Tasmanian whiskey and craft beer

Whether you pop into Hobart’s historic breweries or take to the Whisky Trail, you’ll find plenty of opportunity to meet the makers and learn their secrets. Find out where to sample the best spirits, craft beers, ciders and more.

Kayaking in Hobart with Roaring 40s Kayaking © Roaring 40s Kayaking

Kayak to fish and chips

Paddle along the waterfront and into the docks for a floating fish and chips experience at one of the many fish punts (floating restaurants). Find out why this unique tour is one of the most special ways to experience Hobart.