The Best Things to do in Hobart

If you’re travelling to Tasmania and you’re not sure what to see and do there, we’ve got all the best things to do in Hobart to help make your holiday the best it can be.

In this guide you'll discover the best entertainment, dining, festivals, as well as where to unwind and of course, where to stay in Hobart.

Like many cities, there’s no bad to time visit Hobart. Any time of the year, there’s plenty to see and plenty of things to do in Hobart.

With that said, Hobart is one of Australia’s colder cities, so those who prefer warm days may want to visit in the summer. And those who don’t mind the cold could take advantage of a brisk day and enjoy Hobart in all its wintery glory.

Festivals in Hobart

If you’re wondering when to visit Tasmania, you might want to plan around events in the state.

One of the best things to do in Tasmania is visit the state’s yearly music festival, Dark Mofo. The festival combines visual art, modern music, and performance, and is something of a tourist attraction in Tasmania itself.

If you want to check out the festival or any other Hobart events, be sure to check out what’s on in Hobart before locking in any holiday dates.

When visiting a new city for the first time, one of the most important things to uncover is where to get the best food, and you’ll have plenty of choices for the best Hobart restaurant.

There are so many choices when it comes to top restaurants in Hobart, we’ve made a shortlist of some of the best Hobart food.

Cascade Brewery

Thanks to the cooler Tasmanian climate, Hobart is home to some of the best brewing in Australia, so grabbing a cold one has become one of the best things to do in Tasmania. 

Visit Cascade Brewery for classic Aussie food done right, from cauliflower parmigiana to a stout-glazed smoked brisket. And better yet, each meal has a recommended Cascade drink to go with it, though with freshly-brewed drinks on tap, there are plenty of options for you to go your own way.

If you’re looking for the best pub in Hobart, Cascades Brewery has got to be on the list. 

Hobart Brewing Co.

And visit Hobart Brewing Co. to try some beers at their taproom and grab a bite to eat from the many food trucks that serve the space.

If you’re looking for a casual dinner in Hobart with family and friends, the Hobart Brewing Co. taproom is a must-visit, especially when local artists are playing live music.

Salamanca Market Stalls

There are some great Salamanca restaurants, but when you’re visiting the iconic Salamanca Place and you’re looking for lunch in Hobart, just walk through the markets and try some street eats from the local vendors.

There’s such a massive range of food options, everyone can get what they want.

Shipwright Arms Hotel

If you’re looking for historic charm, head to Battery Point, Hobart and into Shipwrights Arms Hotel.

One of the best places for dinner and lunch in Hobart, Shipwrights arms serves fresh seafood and classic pub food, making it one of the best places to eat in Hobart for locals and visitors alike.

Salty Dog

The Salty Dog at Kingston is the best place to eat in Hobart if you want good beer, good food, and great views.

Live music, trivia, and more often laughter accompany a trip to the Salty Dog, where you can sit down to enjoy seafood chowder for dinner and a Salty Dog Sundae for dessert.

Whether you’re looking for Hobart shopping, you’re travelling Tasmania in search of the best views, or you’re looking for some fun Hobart activities, you won’t be disappointed by the attractions in Hobart.

MONA

For any art lover, there’s one place that’s a must-see attraction in Hobart. And that’s MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art. Though traditional gallery visitors should be aware that Hobart’s MONA is not like your standard State Gallery.

The Tasmanian museum and gallery, MONA was founded by David Walsh, and he has imbued the museum with his own eccentric attitude.

Stroll through the museum to take in the amazing exhibitions and then head down to the MONA cellar door for some wine or to the Void cocktail bar, buried 17 metres underground, for true underground cocktails. When it comes to unique things to do in Tasmania, MONA stands out.

Salamanca Markets

The Salamanca Markets of Hobart are well-known throughout the state and even throughout Australia as some of the best markets you can come by.

Hundreds of stalls and a broad range of goods await at the most popular market in Hobart. Locally-made tea, gin, pottery, jewellery, soap, and so much more can be found every Saturday from 8:30am to 3pm.

Hobart Twilight Market

If that isn’t enough market shopping for you, every Friday night, Sandy Bay becomes the stage for Hobart’s Twilight Market. Shopping, drinks, live music, and food so good that the markets have almost become a Sandy Bay restaurant.

Mount Wellington

Just a little out of Hobart city is Wellington Park, home to the Wellington Mountain, one of the most iconic Tasmanian attractions.

You can get to the park by driving or by hopping on a bus if you’re visiting Hobart without a car. Within the park there’s plenty of natural beauty to see, but the showstopper really is the pinnacle of the mountain.

There’s a lot to see and do in Hobart, but before planning your exciting Hobart activities, you’ll want to check in and take a load off at your hotel.

Mövenpick Hotel Hobart

Timeless luxury and views out over the city and the harbour welcome you as you step into your room. Situated in the heart of the Hobart CBD, the Mövenpick Hotel Hobart is one of the best places to stay in Hobart if you’re looking for the intersection of elegance and convenience.

Mantra One in Sandy Bay is opposite St. David’s Park, moments from the water, and just a short walk from Salamanca Place, making it a great base of operations.

The features that sets Mantra One apart are the rooms. Studio apartments and one, two, and three bedroom apartments make up the accommodation, a great option for visitors to Hobart that like to have their own space, especially if you’re travelling with a group of friends or family.

Just because the sun sets doesn’t mean the day ends. There’s plenty to enjoy in Hobart throughout the evening.

The Den

The Den at Salamanca embraces the four elements as inspiration for their impressive cocktail menu. Sweet drinks (like the Fairy Bread) are sure to bring a smile to your face as well as sophisticated cocktails you’ll want to savour.

If cocktails aren’t your cup of tea, peruse the in-bar wine and beer menu. Take advantage of the cool climate wines associated with the Hobart region on offer.

Chocolate Hour at Mövenpick

For one hour each afternoon, Mövenpick, Hobart dedicates their space to Chocolate Hour. Stop by from 3:30-4:30pm daily to grab a chocolate-inspired cocktail and a complementary sweet treat to go with it.

Whether you’re starting your evening with a bite of sweetness or you’re looking for that yummy afternoon treat, Chocolate Hour is a unique Hobart experience.

Evolve Spirits Bar

Evolve is a unique, luxury lounge bar. Sophisticated drinks, styling, and bar food will make you want to stay a while. The first things you’ll notice when you walk in are the fossils. Evolve Spirits Bar features a collection of impressive fossils from all over the world.

The bar uses the fossils not only as décor, they also serve as inspiration, reflecting human curiosity and appetite for discovery. This is what drives the Evolve team to constantly adapt their menu and service.

Exploring Hobart may be exciting, but every holiday needs some downtime. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to unwind and relax in Hobart.

Hobart Book Stores

While Hobart is often known for its amazing scenery, locals know that there’s some great reading opportunities in the city. Specifically, two Hobart book shops stand out as independent icons.

The Hobart Bookshop is an independent bookshop with titles that span from literary fiction to colourful kid’s lit.

The other important independent bookstore in Hobart is Cracked and Spineless. Behind the humorous name, you can find new and well-loved books as well as friendly staff that are dedicated to finding a home for every story.

Head to either bookstore and discover why the locals love them so much. Grab yourself a book and head to the beach to relax.

Hobart Beaches

While other cities in Australia might be more well-known for beach life, Hobart isn’t lacking in seaside charm. 

Close to the city, Short Beach is a popular spot for some fun in the sun. If you’re willing to head a little further out though, Coningham Beach is just a little over half an hour from the city, but so picturesque it's worth the journey.

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens 

Australia’s top cool climate garden, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens in Hobart are open every day of the year. Learn all about the flora with a tour or wander on your own. Grab a bite to eat at Succulent Restaurant or Sprout Café to make the most of a relaxing day in nature.

Bruny Island

A popular day trip from Hobart, Bruny Island is full of untouched beauty. When it comes to things to do in Bruny Island, wilderness cruises and nature hikes around the island showcase the rugged charm of Tasmania like nothing else. And if you like a swim, visit one of the many Bruny Island beaches to experience the ultimate in coastal relaxation.