Day Trips From Hobart – 11 Awesome Hobart Day Trip Destinations

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and is usually the first stop for visitors to the state. Due to the small size of the state, there are many amazing day trips from Hobart. You can easily base yourself here and explore some of the best the state has to offer.

There are a couple of different ways to explore the island. The first is to hire a car and follow the guides below to find all the best spots. The other way is to take a couple of the fantastic local tours and let the guides do all the hard work.

This guide will cover all the best day trips from Hobart so you can find the perfect ones for you. For those who want to relax and minimise the planning, we have also included the best tours from Hobart to many of these destinations.

The diversity of Tasmania means there is something for everyone; pristine rainforest, majestic mountain scenery, unique wildlife and stunning coastlines are just some of the attractions on offer.

Day Trips from Hobart

Richmond & Surrounds

This is the easiest and closest of the day trips from Hobart. Richmond is only around 25mins outside of the city centre but you can easily spend the better part of a day in and around this area.

Richmond is one of Australia’s most well preserved colonial towns. Some of the oldest heritage buildings in the whole country are located here.

The Richmond Bridge was built in 1823 and is the oldest bridge still in use. The oldest Anglican church in Australia is also located in Richmond as well as the oldest intact gaol!

What to see in Richmond:

This is a brief summary, for further details check out this list of The 9 Best Things to do in Richmond, Tasmania.

Richmond Bridge and St Johns Church – This bridge was constructed in 1823 and is the oldest bridge still used in Australia. Driving over it will give you both bragging rights and access to the park of the same name. From here you can admire the bridge in the company of the local ducks and take a short stroll to the pretty St John’s Church.

Richmond Gaol – This gaol dating from 1825 is another notch in Richmond’s belt for oldest heritage buildings in Australia. The property is beautifully preserved and laid out with displays and information placards. The entry fee is reasonable and the self-guided tour is really interesting.

Richmond Heritage Walk – Follow the map provided at this link for a short walk past some of Richmond’s best preserved buildings. It includes the above sites and a number of others with a short history provided.

Old Hobart Town – This miniature village is a depiction of Hobart as it would have appeared in the 1820s. There are so many cool details to spot and you can compare it to the city today when you return.

Drink Tasmania Tasting House – This is THE place to go for tasting Tasmania’s amazing range of wines and spirits. The fantastic ambiance and knowledgeable staff make it the perfect place to find a bottle for the evening.

Wicked Cheese Co & Littlewood Berry Farm – These shops are located just outside town on the road back to Hobart. They are a great place to pick up some delicious and fresh Tasmanian produce.

Pooseum – This may not be a subject you have thought too much about, but there is a lot to know about poo! Kids and the curious will enjoy this very well curated museum on an oft overlooked subject.

Zoodoo Zoo – This is a large, outdoor safari-style animal park with a huge range of wildlife. A great place to see Tasmanian, Australian and international wildlife all in one go.

Wineries – Richmond sits in the Coal River Valley, one of Tasmania’s main wine regions. Richmond has a couple of great wineries right near town. Check out Pooley Wines and Every Man & His Dog Vineyard.

Richmond Village Shuttle

This is a great option to explore Richmond from Hobart without having to hire a car. This cheap tour will provide you with live commentary and plenty of time to explore the town.

They also provide discount at many of the best shops and attractions in town. This will also allow you to properly indulge at Drink Tasmania! In other sections on this list you will find a variety of tours that also stop in Richmond.

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Port Arthur & Tasman Peninsula

Port Arthur is the most extensive and most infamous of Australia’s historical convict sites. This facility began accepting convicts from 1833 and was where the most hardened or misbehaving prisoners were sent.

Today this is one of the best places to learn about Australia’s convict history and the horrendous hardships endured. The site is well developed and offers many different tours. The entry ticket covers two full days so you can sightsee at a relaxed pace.

Port Arthur sits upon the rugged and beautiful Tasman Peninsula. The massive coastal cliffs are an impressive sight, especially from the water, but can also be seen by hiking.

There are many great lookouts to visit in this area as well as other coastal formations such as arches and caves. This is one of the most popular day trips from Hobart for good reason. Check out the tour below for the most efficient way to see all the top highlights.

Tasman Island Cruises and Port Arthur Historic Site Day Tour from Hobart

This super highly rated tour takes you to the best of both worlds in one day. You’ll get a solid few hours to explore the Port Arthur Historic Site and have lunch in the area.

Following this you’ll jump in a boat and power out to some of the most amazing cliffs and caves along the coast. This is some of the most spectacular coastal scenery anywhere is Australia and is a must-see.

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Maria Island

The beautiful Maria Island can be reached by driving just over an hour to the town of Triabunna. From here, the Encounter Maria Island ferry will take you across in about 30mins. The schedule varies so make sure to check the website for details and book ahead.

This island was a top highlight of our Tasmania road trip and we highly recommend a Maria Island day trip from Hobart. The island has no permanent inhabitants and there are no vehicles aside from the rangers.

This means that it is a haven for nature and a perfect walking and cycling destination for visitors. The painted cliffs and the super cute wombats make it such a unique spot. This is the best place in Tasmania to see wombats in the wild; in the afternoon they are seriously everywhere!

Unless you are a pro cyclist or camping overnight then it can be hard to reach all the sights. Check out the tour below for a great way to see the highlights plus some secret spots that can’t be reached by land.

Maria Island Cruise and Guided Walk Day Tour with Lunch and Drinks

This award winning tour is a great way to see Maria Island without the hassle. It includes pick up from your Hobart accommodation and everything you need for the day, including lunch at a remote beach.

The benefit of this tour is seeing some of the inaccessible coastline of Maria Island and a load of extra marine life. You will have a chance to spot seals, dolphins and even whales (in season). You will also get time on the island to visit the top spots and see some cute wombats.

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Mount Field National Park

Only a little over an hour’s drive west of Hobart is one of Tasmania’s most beautiful national parks. Mount Field National Park offers pristine forest, picturesque waterfalls and some great hikes to see it all.

Your day should start at the visitors centre, where you can park your car and obtain some handy info sheets. The waterfall walks also start from here; you can reach Russell and Horseshoe Falls (the best ones) on a short 30min return walk or tackle the Three Falls Trail which will take 2.5 hours and also includes the Tall Trees Track.

There is also an alpine area of the park with a number of hikes taking in lakes and mountain top views. If you want to see it all then complete the short falls hike, drive to the tall trees parking lot and then continue driving up to the alpine.

See the website for further details about the various hikes and attractions in Mount Field National Park.

Day Tour in Mt. Field, Mt. Wellington, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and Richmond

Talk about an action packed tour! This day trip from Hobart will take you to both Richmond and Mt Field as well as a couple of the top attractions in Hobart.

You won’t have time to tackle any of the longer hikes but you will get to see the beautiful waterfalls and forest. Mt Field was the first park to be protected in Tasmania and Russell Falls is one of the most picturesque. Don’t miss your chance to experience them!

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Freycinet National Park / Wineglass Bay

The smooth curve, white sand and turquoise waters of Wineglass Bay is possibly the most identifiable image of Tasmania. This single bay within the larger Freycinet National Park is popular for good reason.

There are several ways to take in the view of this picture perfect bay. The best view, but most difficult to reach, is from Mt Amos. This is a very challenging hike and should only be attempted by experienced hikers (Grade 4, 3.6km return).

The most popular way to see it is via the Wineglass Bay Lookout Track. This is a 2.6km return trail and is still a moderate hike (Grade 3) but should be ok for most people if you take your time. Ask at the visitor centre if you are unsure of your capability.

Another unique possibility is a cruise departing from nearby Coles Bay. This 4.5 hour experience will also take you past some spectacular sea-cliffs, caves and hidden bays. You will have lunch onboard with beautiful views of Wineglass Bay and the surrounding peaks.

Wineglass Bay & Freycinet National Park Via Richmond

This tour is a great way to knock over two of the best day trips from Hobart in only one day! There are a lot of stops on this tour and it is remarkable value for money.

Your park pass is included in case you don’t have one and there is guided walk to the lookout. On the way back to Hobart you can stop at the beautiful Devil’s Corner Winery and pick up a bottle to celebrate a great day.

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Explore Hobart’s Wine Regions – Coal River Valley, Derwent Valley and Huon Valley

Tasmania produces some fantastic cool climate wines. There are several regions that you can easily visit on day trips from Hobart. The Coal River Valley produces around 22% of Tasmania’s total wine, which is the second biggest region after the Tamar Valley.

The Coal River Valley is super easy to access from Hobart, reached in only a 25min or so drive from the centre. The Derwent River flows through Hobart and you can follow this west-northwest out of the city to discover the Derwent Valley cellar doors.

The Huon Valley regions is the smallest in Tasmania, producing only 1% of the total wines. While small there are some fantastic wineries and some of the best cider you will ever try.

We always recommend wine tasting on an organised tour. The cost is worth it for by the safety of not driving yourself and the fun of tasting with other people.

7- 8 Hour StelaVino Guided Wine Tours From Hobart

This is the best way to explore the wine regions near Hobart. They will take you to a minimum of four cellar doors across two of the regions listed above.

Lunch with a glass of wine is included as is the expert knowledge of the experienced guide. The exclusively 5 star reviews tell you all you need to know about how much fun you’ll have on this day trip!

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Bruny Island

Bruny Island lies to the south of Hobart and is home to one of Tasmania’s best gourmet food scenes. You can reach the island by ferry from the town of Kettering, which is a 30min drive from the centre of the city.

The ferry runs frequently throughout the day and costs $46 return to bring your car across. Unless you are on an organised tour you will need a car to explore Bruny Island.

Once on the island there are only short drives between stops. Some of the popular highlights are ‘The Neck’ viewpoint, Cape Bruny Lighthouse and Adventure Bay. In between all the sights are many delicious gourmet food and drink producers.

Keen hikers will want to tackle the ‘Fluted Cape Walk’. This 6.3km trail starts near Adventure Bay and climbs upwards, offering awesome coastal views.

Bruny Island Day Tour, Includes Lunch and Exclusive Lighthouse Tour

This is the perfect option for visitors who don’t wish to hire a car or drive. You’ll be ferried to Bruny Island and take in all of the best views and wildlife spotting opportunities.

They arrange tastings at many of the fantastic producers such as cheese, chocolate, cider and oysters. A great lunch of local produce is included as is a private lighthouse tour.

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs + Optional Detour to Tahune Adventures

This cave system is located 1.5 hours south of Hobart. The visit isn’t likely to take a whole day so you can combine it with a trip to Tahune Adventures if you wish. This will be about an extra hour driving but is worth it for the attractions on offer there (please note that the forest is re-growing from devastating fires but it’s still a great spot).

The Hastings cave system is notable for being Dolomite rather than the usual Limestone. The one here is the largest in Australia and has been developed with walkways and lights. The scale of the cave is really awesome, with many stalactites and stalagmites decorating it.

The thermal springs are included with the cave tour tickets. They have been channelled in to a swimming pool and there are changerooms/showers on site. The water is 28 degrees so not steaming but pleasant as long as the day is not too chilly.

The surrounds are absolutely stunning here and it’s a great place to bring a picnic. They have shelters with wood fires and BBQs for use. There are some nice short walks around the area also, with a good chance to spot a platypus.

Tahune Airwalk & Hastings Cave Active Day Tour from Hobart

Let this tour take you from the treetops to the underground without any of the boring driving! You will get to visit everything mentioned above as well as stops to try seasonal produce.

All your entry fees and a hotel pickup is included so you just have to get up and go adventuring. Lunch is not included on this one but they make a stop at a bakery if you have not prepared one in advance.

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Longer Day Trips From Hobart

The following trips are further from the city and kind of push the limits for a self-guided day trip. The full days of hiking and sightseeing can leave you quite tired and make driving risky.

Lake St Clair can be done self-guided however it will be a 5hr return drive. Cradle Mountain and Strahan can be done in a day trip from Hobart but you will definitely need to book a tour and let someone else do the driving (or flying in the case of Strahan!).

Luckily there are some amazing tour option from Hobart that cover all these destinations. Check them out through the links below.

Lake St Clair

A day trip to Lake St Clair is going to be all about hiking. This area has many beautiful trails and you can walk part of the famous Overland Track. As mentioned above it’s a 5hr return drive from Hobart, but there several great short walks so you don’t get too tired out.

Start your trip off at the visitors centre, they have some displays about the nature and history of the area. You can also find large maps and info about the various hiking routes.

You can tackle whatever route length suits you, with hikes from 45min to 5hr. Platypus Bay and Watersmeet are a couple of great spots that you can easily reach. After your hike you can grab a coffee at the on-site café to prepare for the drive.

While you’re in the area you should definitely check out the ‘Wall in the Wilderness’. This is a huge series of wooden panels carved in high relief over a period of 15 years. There is an entry fee but we found it reasonable to experience this totally unique artwork.

Lake St. Clair and Western Wilderness Active Day Trip from Hobart

This is definitely going to be the most relaxing and safest way to see Lake St Clair. Get picked up from your hotel and guided along some of the best hikes in the area.

You’ll visit a great wilderness lookout point and see the Franklin River. The best part is that after all the hiking you can sleep for the whole drive back to Hobart!

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Strahan

The small coastal town of Strahan is the gateway to the western wilderness of Tasmania. There are many great things to do in Strahan but the best of these is exploring the UNESCO listed Gordon River.

The waterfront esplanade in Strahan has a number of pretty old buildings and there are a lot of attractions close together. You can visit an old Huon Pine sawmill that now sells beautiful handmade items. Close by to here is the visitor centre that houses the West Coast Reflections Exhibition, a great way to learn about the history of the region.

There is only one way to reach Strahan on a day trip from Hobart and that is by air. Check out the below tour for a unique experience that will allow you to explore the western wilderness by land, sea and air!

Strahan Day Trip by Air from Hobart Including a Gordon River Cruise

Strap in for an incredibly scenic 50 minute flight from Hobart to Strahan. After passing over some of the most spectacular scenery in the state you will land in Strahan to explore it from close up.

The next stop on this awesome adventure is a 5 hour cruise through the UNESCO listed wilderness along the Gordan River. Lunch is included on board and there is a selection of Tasmanian wines and beers.

You will have some time to explore the pretty town centre before jumping back on the plane back to Hobart. This may be one of the more expensive day trips from Hobart but it is definitely one of the most unique and amazing adventures.

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Cradle Mountain

This national park is one of the most popular destinations for visitors to Tasmania. The absolutely stunning walks and hikes in Cradle Mountain were a top highlight of our Tasmania road trip.

If you are visiting Hobart and have a couple of days free then you should definitely visit this famous natural landmark of Tasmania. Keep in mind that it will be a big day and you won’t be able to tackle it alone.

The summit hike takes a full day so you won’t be able to do this particular hike on a day trip from Hobart. Luckily there are many other amazing hikes that can be completed in a day.

One of the most popular walks with the best views of Cradle Mountain is the Dove Lake Circuit. I would highly recommend doing this walk as it’s easy to complete on a day trip from Hobart.

See our complete guide to hiking Cradle Mountain to help you select the best hike that will suit your abilities.

Big Day Out from Hobart to Cradle Mountain

This tour is the only way to reach Cradle Mountain from Hobart in the space of a day. You will leave very early in the morning and arrive back at night to allow maximum time in the park.

Once there you can hike alone or with the guide. The guide will show you the best hikes and viewpoints that can be reached in the time you have there. The drive is also quite scenic and as a passenger you will be able to take in all the nice views along the way.

There are stops for both breakfast and dinner which you will have to purchase yourself. Park entry fees are included. Please note that they require 4 passengers to go ahead so make sure to enquire directly before making solid plans.

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Where to Stay for Day Trips from Hobart

Budget

Alabama Hotel – This great little budget hotel is located right in the heart of the action. You’ll be in easy walking distance of many top tourist spots as well as the best drinking and dining options.

They have a cute little onsite bar and a nice terrace. As the name suggests, the place has a retro American theme. The rooms are simple but clean and comfortable. The bathrooms are shared but it’s a small price to pay for the value and location.

Mid-Range

Customs House Hotel – Housed in a beautiful building dating from 1846, this hotel features classy rooms and a superb free breakfast. It is located in the best area, right near the bustling waterfront and many of the top tourist spots.

The price range of the rooms is great value for the quality and location of this property. You’ll struggle to find a better combination in Hobart.

Luxury

The Henry Jones Art Hotel – This amazing property sits in one of the renovated warehouses along the historic waterfront. Dating from the 1820s, they have done a fantastic job at preserving an antique feel to the décor in a very classy way.

Some of the rooms feature views of the waterfront and they have a super nice bar on site. The property is also decorate with many original artworks that you can explore.

►Browse more Hobart accommodation options here◄

How to Reach These Day Trips From Hobart

You’ll need to hire a car if you want to complete some of these awesome day trips yourself. Whenever we travel we use Rental Cars to compare companies and find a car rental for the best price.

If you have limited time to spend in Hobart, booking any of the recommended tours throughout this article is the perfect way to go. Make sure to check out more of our articles below to help you make the most of your holiday in Tasmania!

Find More Things to do in Tasmania

• 10 Day Tasmania Itinerary – A Bucket List Tasmania Road Trip
• The 10 Best Things To Do In Stanley, Tasmania
• 9 Best Things to do in Strahan, Tasmania
• Day Trip to Maria Island from Hobart – The Perfect One Day Itinerary
• The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Cradle Mountain
• 15 Must-See Natural Landmarks of Tasmania

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