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When we first started planning our trip to Hobart, Tasmania, everything and everyone told us we would need a car. Our Hobart Itinerary research made us wonder if we might feel trapped without our own wheels. Our quirk of not driving abroad while sticking to a budget in Australia was becoming an increasingly pesky impediment. Still, we were determined to visit – and experience – Hobart without a car.
Hobart Without a Car
When creating our Hobart, Tasmania 5-Day Itinerary, we fiercely debated whether it was possible to pull off our visit without a car – and stay on budget. As we sifted through the top attractions in Hobart, we determined if each sight could be reached on foot or by bus. In the end, we realized that there are many fun things to do in Hobart, Tasmania – even without a car!
Not only is Hobart an extremely walkable city, there is ample public transport that is affordable and efficient. We are sharing all of the details in our fun-filled 5-Day Itinerary in Hobart (without a car!).
Best Things To Do in Hobart, Tasmania
Hobart is one of the top places in Tasmania to visit! The city is the capital of the Australian island – and features natural wonders and a thriving Central Business District.
When planning what to do in Hobart, we were impressed by the number of sights we could walk to or reach with public transportation. We filled our Hobart Itinerary with prime places to visit, must-see sights and outdoor adventures.
About Our Hobart, Tasmania 5-Day Itinerary
We designed our perfect 5-Day Hobart Itinerary without a car. In our trip plan, we highlight the best places to visit in Hobart – and our recommended way to get there.
Because some Hobart things to do are day-of-week-specific, we outline when to partake in specific Hobart activities. Our 5-day itinerary for Hobart is ideal for spending Wednesday through Sunday in the city. Friday through Tuesday will also work, just move Days 1 and 2 to Monday and Tuesday.
How Many Days in Hobart?
We think 5 days in Hobart is the perfect amount of time to see the sights. That said, we know not everyone has five days to spend in Hobart. No worries – you can still use our Hobart trip plan as a guide.
Whether you are planning a weekend in Hobart, scheduling a 3 Days in Hobart getaway or plotting the best 4-Day Itinerary for Tasmania, our detailed Hobart Itinerary is a great starting point for your vacation!
5-Day Hobart Itinerary – Without a Car
Our Hobart Itinerary is packed with the top things to do – and no driving is necessary! Additionally, we include tips for Hobart Public Transport, fun Hobart day trips and other essential info at the end of the article.
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Hobart Day 1
One the first day of your Hobart, Tasmania Itinerary get a lay of the land, a taste of the local cuisine and a small dose of nature.
Daci and Daci Bakers Café in Hobart
Start your day at the highly-rated Daci and Daci Bakers Hobart Café. Choose from a selection of bakery sweets or savory breads and sip a coffee at the artisan bakery to fuel your day of sightseeing.
Getting There: Daci and Daci Bakery in Hobart is located in the CBD at 11 Murray Street.
Mount Nelson, Hobart
Mount Nelson is not nearly as tall as Mount Wellington (which we will visit on Day 2), but we believe the views of the Derwent River and surrounding landscapes are still pretty spectacular.
The Mount Nelson signal station, built in 1811, still stands on the top of the hill. Inside, there is a fun history lesson on signal stations and their importance. We set off on a few of the Mt Nelson walking tracks – and even caught sight of a couple of wallabies!
If you’re ready for another cup of coffee or a snack, The Signal Station Restaurant offers incredible views. We would have loved to sink into a beanbag and soak in the relaxing atmosphere, but we had a bus to catch!
Getting There: Bus X58 (or 457/458) from Franklin Square on Macquarie Street. It takes about a half hour and drops off at the Mount Nelson carpark.
Cascade Brewery
Cascade has been brewing beer since 1832 and is one of the top Hobart attractions. It also ranks as the oldest brewery in Australia that is still in operation. The iconic building has a mysterious look to it, which somewhat matches the uncanny history of ownership. Visitors can choose to take one of the brewery tours, sit down for lunch or just pop into the tasting room.
Getting There: Bus 449, 446 and 447 from Franklin Square on Macquarie Street.
Hobart Walking Tours
The tour of the Cascade Brewery is one of the fun things to do in Hobart, but it may not be suited for everyone. History buffs and families may be more interested in historic walking tours of Hobart.
The 90-minute Hobart Historic Walking Tour provides an excellent introduction to the city’s intriguing past. Participants will learn about famous residents, top landmarks and key sights. Book it in advance to reserve your spot!
Getting There: The Hobart Walking Tour departs from the Tasmanian Travel and Information Centre at 2:00pm.
Miyabi in North Hobart
Situated in North Hobart’s popular restaurant row, Miyabi is a little gem of a restaurant. The dimly lit and intimate dining room is accessed by a set of inconspicuous stairs. With affordable options on both the prix fix and tapas-style menu, diners have plenty of choices!
Getting There: It is about a 20-minute walk up hill on Elizabeth Street from the waterfront. Alternatively, several bus lines serve Hobart’s northern suburbs and take Elizabeth Street as their route out of town.
Day 2 in Hobart
On Day 2 of your Hobart, Tasmania Itinerary, lace up your hiking shoes and hit the trails on Mount Wellington. Then end the day with local drinks.
Mount Wellington, Hobart
Mount Wellington stands at 4167 feet and looks absolutely stunning in the distance from Hobart. However, the better views are from the Mt. Wellington summit looking down on the city and around the region. Going to the top of the mountain – whether by hiking or by car – is a must-do in Hobart!
We semi-challenged ourselves to conquer the mountain by taking a one-way shuttle bus up to the peak of Mt Welly and then hiking down to Fern Tree. We learned just how difficult it can be to hike down through snow and ice, but loved the trek regardless of the few sketchy parts of the trail. Read all the details about our Mount Wellington Walk.
Getting There: Public buses don’t go to the Mount Wellington summit, but the Hobart Shuttle Bus makes the trip 2-3 times a day. If hiking down, from Fern Tree catch bus 448 or 449 back to the city.
Lark Distillery Cellar Door
After a day of trekking around on Mount Wellington, relax with a glass of locally produced whiskey. Lark Distillery, which is located in the heart of the Hobart CBD, was established in 1992.
The distillery uses time-old traditions and Tasmanian ingredients to produce their Australian craft whiskey. Tastings are available in full or half measure – and a range of other beverages are also offered at the bar. Getting a taste of the local product is one of the fun things to do in Hobart CBD.
Visitors who are interested in learning more about Tasmania’s wine, cider and whiskey production can take an all-day tour with a local guide. Get the details!
How To Get There: Walk! Lark Distillery is located at 14 Davey Street.
Tom McHugo’s
One of the best bars in Hobart, the original version was established on this site in 1842 and named the Hobart Hotel. The classic corner pub has held many other names over the years, and it is currently the Tom McHugo’s Hobart Hotel.
The inviting pub has a warm and casual ambiance, a traditional menu with a modern flair and plenty of ice-cold craft beer on tap. Stay for a meal and go for the chicken parma or lamb pie – it’s one of the fun things to do in Hobart at night!
Getting There: Walk. Tom McHugo Bar is on the corner of Macquarie and Argyle.
Hobart Day 3
On the 3rd day of your Hobart trip plan, enjoy a day filled with Hobart culture. Visit a world-class art museum, sip wine on a riverside vineyard estate and listen to the sweet sounds of a local band.
MONA Museum
The Hobart MONA Museum – Museum of Old and New Art – is highly rated as one of the top things to see in Hobart. Featuring both ancient masterpieces and contemporary art-forms, the collection belongs to Australian celebrity, David Walsh. Many of the displayed artworks are heavily themed in sex and death.
Getting There: Numerous buses depart from the Hobart CBD and stop at the MONA bus stop, including the 510, 520, 521, 522 and X20. Ferries also transport passengers to the museum and there is a MONA Roma Express bus.
Moorilla Estate Wine
The Moorilla Estate, a small, boutique winery was founded in 1947. It is located 10 miles north of Hobart on the banks of the Derwent River next to the MONA Museum. The Moorilla winery tour, which is casual and entertaining, is led by enthusiastic tour guides. On our tour, we had a glass of sparkling wine in our hands before we even left the lobby!
As we viewed different sections of the winery, a bottle of what was appropriate for the story was opened and shared. During the tour, we poured directly from casks and barrels and finished off the afternoon with several more sips in the tasting room.
MONA Museum and Moorilla Winery Combo Tour: Those who want to combine the museum and winery visit with ferry boat transport should consider the Winery Museum Lunch Excursion.
Getting There: Use the Hobart bus and transportation information listed above for the MONA Museum.
Rektango at Salamanca Arts Center Courtyard
The Salamanca Arts Center is one of the premier art galleries in Hobart, Tasmania. Naturally, it is heavily invested in showcasing the culture of the city. One of their fun (and free!) events is Rektango – and attending is one of the unique things to do in Hobart.
During the early Friday evening soiree, which only happens from 5:30 until 7:30, musicians take the stage in the courtyard of the Salamanca Arts Center and put on a free show. When we attended Rektango, we could feel the energy the moment we walked in. The place was packed with jubilant people and the music was fantastic!
Getting There: The Salamanca Arts Center is located just outside the CBD. Follow the signs on Salamanca Place to the arts center.
Day 4 in Hobart
Today on your Hobart Travel Itinerary, peruse the goods at the top weekend market and explore the historic Battery Point district. Then walk along the River Derwent to one of the best beaches in Hobart. Day 4 is all about fun things to do in Hobart that are free!
Salamanca Market (Saturday Only)
Salamanca Market is an attraction that is listed in just about every Hobart Travel Guide. For good reason: It’s amazing! On Saturdays from 8:30am to 3pm, Salamanca Place turns into Salamanca Market. Tents are set up along the entire stretch of the road offering fresh Tasmanian produce, homemade crafts and prepared food.
In addition to all the sights and sounds of the most popular market in Hobart, there are also several street performers to keep the crowds entertained. Going to the market is one of the best free things to do in Hobart!
Getting There: The market takes place on Salamanca Place; you can’t miss it.
Battery Point Exploration
The Battery Point neighborhood is one of the best places to visit in Hobart. Named for the defensive battery that was situated on the coastline in the early 1800s, the guns never had to be used to defend the city. Today, the historic subdivision is rather prestigious – and a perfect place to explore.
Visitors can devise their own Battery Point Self-Guided Walking Tour – or simply stroll through the pleasant neighborhood. Some of the Battery Point Hobart attractions include Kelly’s Steps, the Arthur Circus cottages, Princes Park and the old Shipwright’s Arms Hotel pub. The Jackman & McRoss Bakery Hobart in Battery Point is considered to be one the best bakeries in Hobart. It makes a great stop for some mid-afternoon fuel.
Getting There: Walk. Start at Kelly’s Steps on Salamanca Place.
Short Beach, Long Beach and Nutgrove Beach Hobart
Although the beaches in Hobart, Tasmania are not as stunning as the long sandy shores of Australia’s Gold Coast, the shore along the River Derwent is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit.
Just to the south of Battery Point in the Sandy Bay neighborhood, there are three small Hobart beaches. Short Beach, Long Beach and Nutgrove Beach are perfect for an evening stroll. Consider staying in the area and eating dinner at one of the riverside restaurants.
Getting There: From Battery Point, it is just a 30-minute walk to Nutgrove Beach (the best of the three – and the furthest south). Routes 402, 426 and 429 are good options to get back to the Hobart city centre.
Hobart Day 5
On the last day of your 5-Day Hobart Trip Itinerary, visit a smaller weekend market, indulge in local fare and take a cruise on an amazing sailboat.
Farm Gate Market, Hobart
The Farm Gate Market in Hobart may be much smaller than the Salamanca, but it excels as a local event. Focusing on in-season produce and prepared foods using fresh local ingredients, it retains a community ambiance. The Farm Gate Hobart Market is held on Sundays from 8:30am to 1pm and often includes street performers.
Getting There: Walk to Bathurst between Murray Street and Elizabeth Street.
Constitution Dock, Hobart Views and Fish & Chips
Constitution Dock is the main Hobart harbor that accommodates fishing boats and yachts alike. Discover the area on a stroll. Walk to the Victoria Dock Bridge and then turn around for the most fabulous view of the Hobart skyline and Mount Wellington.
For lunch, feast on a portion of fish-and-chips from one of the casual floating restaurants (it’s one of the fun and cheap things to do in Hobart!). Mako and Flippers are some of the best Hobart restaurants for take away Fish & Chips. We ordered the combination plate for two and enjoyed the phenomenal fish while sitting on the docks (and fending off hungry seagulls!).
Belly Talk is also another good option if you’re craving a burger and fries and check out Van Diemens Land Creamery for decadent dessert! After your lunch, walk to the modern Brooke Street Pier and shop for souvenirs at the local vendor shops.
Getting There: Walk from the corner of Argyle Street and Davey Street.
Hobart Historic Cruise on Lady Nelson Tasmania
A replica of a late 1700s English ship, Lady Nelson sails on Saturdays and Sundays on the Derwent River. This historic cruise in Hobart, Tasmania is a 90-minute trip that sails upriver to the Tasman Bridge and back (more info). 
Completely manned by volunteers – who encourage passenger participation – a ride on the Lady Nelson is one of the fun things to do in Hobart with kids (but we enjoyed it as adults, too!). During our Hobart river cruise, we helped let out the sails and even took the helm. As we sailed downriver, we took in the phenomenal views of Hobart and Mount Wellington.
Another Hobart river cruise sightseeing option is a lunch or dinner cruise on the Derwent River. The relaxing ride is complemented with on-board commentary of the best Hobart sights. Get the details!
Get There: You’ll find Lady Nelson docked on the Pier at Constitution Dock next to Fish Frenzy.
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
If you have time to fit one more Hobart attraction in your itinerary, spend the afternoon in the Botanic Gardens. Established in 1818, it’s one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. The 35-acre grounds boast native and rare plant species, intertwining walking paths and a cafe.
Getting There: The Hobart Botanic Garden is located north of the CBD – and it is a bit of a walk. Unfortunately, there are no public buses that stop at the gardens, but the double-decker tourist bus does (which we share details on in a minute).
Hobart Museums
Alternatively, instead of spending a day outdoors, consider visiting one of the magnificent museums in Hobart. Two fantastic choices are located near the docks: Tasmanian Museum and Maritime Museum.
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (which is free, but accepts donations) offers an array of interesting displays on the natural history of the land, settlement history and artworks.
Maritime Museum of Tasmania
Visitors of the Maritime Museum of Tasmania can explore the ship and whaling history of Tasmania through models and stories.
More Things To Do in Hobart, Tasmania
Our Hobart Itinerary for 5 Days features the best city sights along with a good dose of nature. One thing we did not include, however, is day trips around Hobart.
We recommend searching online for the top tours from Hobart, where you can read invaluable reviews from fellow travelers. Also consider one (or more) of the highly-rated tours listed below to add to your Hobart Itinerary.
Port Arthur Day Trip
One of the best day trips from Hobart, Tasmania, Port Arthur combines history and nature. This all-day excursion to the Tasman Peninsula takes participants via boat to beautiful landscapes where sea cliffs rise from the water and wildlife is abundant. At the Port Arthur UNESCO World Heritage Historic Site, visitors learn about Tasmania’s intriguing past as a former convict colony. Reserve your space now!
Bruny Island
Ranked as one of the Tasmania top things to do, Bruny Island day trips from Hobart are an adventure. Participants take a 3-hour cruise which features incredible beaches, craggy coastlines, sea caves and epic wildlife. Lunch is also included on this expedition. Book it now!
Full-Day Hobart Tour to Wineglass Bay
A highly rated day trip from Hobart, the tour travels through Coles Bay and Wineglass Bay to Freycinet National Park. The tour is highlighted by incredible scenery, quaint coastal villages and the opportunity for a short walk. Find out more!
Day Trips from Hobart with Public Buses
In our 5 Day Hobart Itinerary, we recommend using public transit to venture just outside the city limits. However, there are a few more destinations that are even further afield that can be included, as well.
Maria Island
Located off the east coast of Tasmania, Maria Island is a fascinating place to visit. It’s accessible from Hobart using a combination of bus and ferry. Top Maria Island activities are hiking, wildlife spotting and exploring. Some of the most interesting places to see are the Painted Cliffs, the Darlington Probation Station and Fossil Cliffs.
New Norfolk
Situated in the heart of the Derwent Valley, New Norfolk can make a fun day trip from Hobart without a car. The town is known for its fantastic antique shops and ample natural beauty. Visitors can use the Derwent Valley Link Bus or O’Driscoll Coaches to get to New Norfolk from Hobart.
Ross Village
A village built by convicts, Ross is steeped in history and makes for an interesting Hobart Day Trip without a Car. The top attractions are the beautiful Ross Bridge, the Ross Female Factory Historic Site and the Uniting Church. The Village of Ross is also known for its boutique shops and delicious bakeries. The bus from Hobart to Ross takes about 1.5 hours each way.
Visiting Hobart Without a Car: What You Need to Know
While public transport in Tasmania, Australia between cities is limited, the regional Hobart public transportation system is robust and easy to use. By using these services, visitors will find many things to do in Hobart without a car!
Public Transport Hobart, Tasmania
The most affordable way for getting around Hobart without a car is with the network of buses in and from the city.
The Metro Shop and Greencard for Hobart
To travel by bus in Hobart, visitors can pay on the bus with exact cash – or obtain a Tourist Greencard from the Metro Shop for discounted fares. Check current schedules and prices on the Metro app or official website.
Hobart Sightseeing Bus
Rather than sorting details of public transportation, visitors can also catch a ride on the Hobart Hop-On Hop-Off Bus. It makes stops at all the top tourist attractions. Buy your tickets online!
Pro Tip: Tourist can buy a discounted combo ticket on the Hop On Hop Off Bus Hobart and on the Mount Wellington express bus. Get the details!
Getting around Tasmania
While public transport in Hobart and the surrounding region is plentiful, getting around Tasmania without a car is not as easy! There are no passenger train services and buses between cities are few and far between. Honestly, the best way to get around Tasmania without a car is with tours – which can get pricey. However, they can be the ticket to seeing the best of Tasmania without driving.
3 Days in Tasmania Tour
A multi-day sightseeing excursion might be just what you are looking for when visiting Tasmania with no car. This 3-Day Hobart to Launceston Tour includes visiting Port Arthur, Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park. Find out more!
Public Bus from Hobart to Tasmania Destinations
Traveling by public bus outside of Hobart is very limited – but not impossible.
Bus from Hobart to Port Arthur
No direct public buses connect Hobart to Port Arthur, a popular nearby historic sight. However, it is possible to take a Hobart bus to Clifton Beach or Lauderdale – and then take a taxi into Port Arthur. Alternatively, there is a Port Arthur Shuttle Express, which provides a ride to and from Port Arthur, with four hours to explore once there. Get pricing and details!
Buses: Hobart to Launceston
There is a direct bus route between Hobart and Launceston (which bypasses all of the sights along the way). The line is serviced by Tasmania Redline. Find fares and timetables on their website.
Car Rental Hobart, Tasmania
Some may decide in the end that driving in Tasmania is the best way to see the sights. If you are considering a car rental in Hobart, Tasmania, use our tips for getting the cheapest rate.
How To Get to Hobart, Tasmania
From Australia’s mainland, Hobart can be reached by plane or boat. Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying (we are JetSetting Fools, after all), which is how we arrived in Hobart from Melbourne. When we purchase plane tickets, we start our search on Skyscanner. First, read our Hacks to Get Cheap Flights!
Flights arrive at Hobart Airport (HBA), which is located 10 miles northeast of the city. There are a few options for getting from the Hobart Airport to the CBD, including Uber. However, the SkyBus Hobart City Express is the least expensive way to transfer from the airport to the city.
Where To Stay in Hobart
During our visit to Hobart, we stayed in an amazing Airbnb Apartment. We have found that staying in vacation rentals is often less expensive than hotel rooms – with the added benefit of a kitchen and more space. Visitors will find that there are an abundance of holiday apartments in Hobart, Tasmania.
For those who prefer staying in traditional accommodations, there are many Hobart hotels to choose from in – or close to – the city center. The Henry Jones Art Hotel is a superb 5-Star Hobart accommodation right on the water.
Budget travelers don’t fret, there are affordable places to stay in Hobart, too! In addition to budget-friendly Airbnb rooms, visitors on a budget and backpackers in Hobart can find affordable beds at these Hobart Hostels.
Use our tips for finding the best hotels – then start your search on Booking.com!
What To Pack for Your Hobart Trip
We have a few final packing hacks for your trip to Hobart! You can find all of our advice on our Complete Packing page. Need a packing checklist for your 5 days in Hobart, Tasmania? Grab one now!
Durable Shoes
Hobart is a walkable city…but only if you have the right travel shoes! Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes for your trip. I (Sarah) have traveled with these shoes by New Balance. Kris prefers wearing these shoes by Merrell.
Day Pack
Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you will also want to have the perfect day bag to organize and secure all your essential everyday travel items!
Travel Camera
We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your Tassie trip. Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for high quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel and use a 18-135mm lens. This DSLR is perfect budget camera for beginner photographers – as it comes bundled with a fantastic set of accessories!
Australia Travel Insurance
If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your trip to Australia, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Planning a Trip to Hobart, Tasmania
We have highlighted what to do in Hobart without a car to help you easily plan your vacation. As you start making reservations, it is essential that you keep track of the details. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner – to stay on top of the specifics for your Hobart trip!
Start planning your trip to Australia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Visiting other Top Cities in Australia? Good on ya! We’ve got you covered with our detailed guides to Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, and Cairns!
Getting Outdoors in Australia? Enjoy the Great Southern Land with a Bondi To Coogee Coastal Walk, A Day Trip to The Blue Mountains, set off on the Great Ocean Road and of course the Great Barrier Reef!
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