Hobart

The ultimate travel guide toHobart

Combining heritage charm with modern luxuries, Hobart, nestled at the foothills of Kunyanyi/Mount Wellington, truly is one of Australia’s most beautiful cities. Tasmania’s capital, and the second oldest capital in Australia after Sydney, offers a unique combination of vibrant cosmopolitan experiences and a plentiful supply of outdoor attractions.

With its commitment to produce-driven dining, weekly markets and food experiences, you can expect a long and varied list of top places to eat in Hobart. Coffee fiends won’t be disappointed, Hobart is a mecca when it comes to cafes. And our second-favourite beverage is in high supply at one of the many Hobart bars and boundary-pushing distilleries scattered throughout the city.

Whether you’re here for a long stay, a three-day weekend, or you’ve got kids in tow, there is an accommodation option to suit. Our Hobart travel guide below is your one-stop shop for planning the ultimate escape to the Apple Isle’s capital city.

Top things to do in Hobart

With so much to see and do, you’ll want to stay for weeks in this picturesque city (even in the summer months). Whether it’s walking around Battery Point to see the historic houses dating from the first European settlement, heading up to the summit of Mount Wellington to enjoy the spectacular views of the city and harbour, or simply strolling around the art galleries (like the weird and wonderful Museum of Old and New Art) or weekly markets and stopping into the fabulous restaurants for a bite (or three), you’ll be kept busy from dawn until dusk. We’ve also put together a handful of cheat guides on where to play, stay and eat in Hobart, a family itinerary, and a 72-hour guide, or keep reading for more things to do.

Top Hobart accommodation

From luxury hotels to elegant manor houses, Hobart has an eclectic mix of accommodation options, with many of them emphasising one of Hobart’s best qualities: art. Take the Henry Jones Art Hotel for starters, it is a beautiful collision of art and history – and is set in the hustle and bustle with galleries, restaurants, bars and cafes at the doorstep. Sticking to the art theme, you can’t go past a stay at MONA Pavilions. While The Islington Hotel, set in an old Regency house, has magnificent views of Mount Wellington, gorgeous gardens and, again, more art and artefacts.

There’s also no shortage of hotel options in Hobart. From the budget-friendly options right through to the five-star chains, there’s a choice for every wallet. One standout example is Macq01 from the team at The Henry Jones. It’s well-positioned and celebrates Tasmania’s history, from the indigenous population right through to the colourful characters that have made the city home. Keep reading for more great accommodation options below.

Top Hobart restaurants, bars and cafes

Famed for its culinary scene, it’s not hard to find excellent places to eat and drink in Hobart. For those who want to indulge in flavours from around the world, head to Elizabeth Street in North Hobart. Historic Salamanca also has an abundance of options to satisfy all taste buds. When it comes to cafes (and the best coffee in Hobart), you can pretty much walk into any and be satisfied. There’s a Hobart bar for every occasion (and palate). From unique distilleries and ritzy hotel bars with all the trimmings to laidback craft beer bars in historic buildings and speakeasy cocktail bars hidden down laneways. Then you’ve got a long list of memorable foodie experiences and the weekly markets to really take eating and drinking in Hobart to the next level. Find all this and more below.