Hobart is one of Australia’s most charming and surprising capitals. Tucked in the southern tip, Hobart offers a laid-back pace, rich colonial past, thriving arts scene, and easy access to both mountain peaks and seafood-laden docks.
If you happen to be planning your visit to this Tasmanian gem, here are 10 things to do in Hobart that capture the heart of the island’s capital.
1. Wander the History of Battery Point
Battery Point is Hobart’s oldest neighborhood just a short stroll from the CBD. Once home to military defenses, it’s now a quiet maze of sandstone cottages, cobbled lanes, and leafy streets, perfect for a self-guided walking tour. While you’re there, don’t miss Arthur Circus, a charming ring of cottages you won’t find anywhere else in Australia.
2. Explore the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)
Located in the suburb of Berriedale, MONA is the place to truly immerse in Hobart’s culture. It’s a unique museum blending ancient artifacts with contemporary art. Built into a cliffside and accessible by a ferry ride up the Derwent River, MONA is unlike any museum experience you’ve had before. Even if modern art isn’t your thing, MONA’s architecture and thought-provoking exhibitions make it a must-see.
3. Visit the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site
This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a sobering but significant glimpse into Australia’s convict history, specifically the lives of the thousands of women who were transported here from Britain in the 1800s. As a former Australian workhouse for female convicts in the penal colony of Van Diemen’s Land, this site offers powerful stories and moving guided tours.
4. Climb Kunanyi/Mount Wellington
Also known as Kunanyi in Palawa Kani and gazetted as Kunanyi, Mount Wellington towers over the city and offers sweeping views of Hobart, the Derwent River, and beyond. If you decide to include it in your itinerary, make sure to wear layered clothing as the weather can change rapidly, even in the summer. Whether you drive to the summit or hike beneath the famous Organ Pipes, it’s an essential part of any visit.
5. Spend a Morning at Salamanca Market
Held every Saturday, Salamanca Market is one of Australia’s most vibrant open-air markets with over one million visitors per year. Located near the waterfront, it brings together over 300 stalls offering everything from artisanal cheeses and handmade crafts to locally distilled gin. It also boasts galleries, boutiques, and restaurants in restored Georgian warehouses.
6. Go Back in Time in Richmond
Just 30 minutes from Hobart, the village of Richmond is a colonial-era time capsule. Visitors can stroll across Australia’s oldest stone bridge built in 1823, tour the historic Richmond Gaol, and browse through cafes, antique stores, and local wineries. Don’t forget to stop by Nocton Vineyard for a laid-back tasting session with a scenic view.
7. Discover the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
For nature lovers or anyone just in the mood for beautiful scenery, make a stop at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, set within Queen’s Domain Park. These 17-hectare gardens are a tranquil retreat with meandering paths that reveal heritage plantings, native flora, and even a Japanese garden. The good news is, the entry is free, and it’s a perfect spot for a slow afternoon.
8. Watch a Show at Theatre Royal
Built in 1837, the Theatre Royal is Australia’s oldest working theatre Hobart’s and the home of contemporary theatre in Tasmania for more than 185 years. To this date, it still hosts an impressive calendar of live performances. From classic plays to modern productions, the venue offers a cultural touchpoint that blends history and entertainment. Keep an eye out for summer productions held outdoors in the Botanical Gardens.
9. Indulge in a Cozy Food & Drink Scene
Hobart has lots to offer when it comes to dining. Find anything from fresh seafood on the docks, creative fine dining, and cozy neighborhood bistros. Some tried and true favorites include Da Angelo Ristorante (authentic Italian in Battery Point), Pearl & Co. (seafood by the wharf), and Poncho Villa (modern Mexican with a twist). For beer lovers, Cascade Brewery offers tours and tastings, while microbreweries like Shambles, Overland, and T-Bone tap into Tasmania’s craft beer culture.
10. Experience the City After Dark
As the sun sets, Hobart comes alive in a different way. Twilight markets pop up near the waterfront, live music fills the air, and guided wildlife tours reveal Tasmania’s nocturnal residents that can be spotted just outside the city, from wallabies, pademelons, to bandicoots. To make the most of the night, join a guided Glow Tour for a UV-lit exploration of Hobart’s urban wildlife.
Hobart is a city with stories, soul, and scenery. Whether you’re into learning the local history, sipping some good wine, or gazing at its natural wonders, Hobart is always a city that surprises with much to offer.