Things to do in Tasmania: Your Guide to an Epic Weekend Getaway

A holiday destination that has captured the imagination of Aussie's and those who hail from further afield, Tasmania is awash with pristine landscapes, foodie hotspots and cultural experiences. Nature's playground at its finest, this small island has an other-worldly feel, backed by the vibrant capital of Hobart and equally charismatic Launceston, by quaint small towns, friendly locals and intoxicating epicurean delights. It's  easy to fall in love with Tasmania's charms. Half a dozen of Bruny Island's best oysters, anyone?

Here, history runs deep. From the Palawa (Tasmanian Aboriginal) culture to its penal colony days, you can feel the island's heritage through its every fibre. Whether you go it alone or jump onto a custom-made tour, your adventures will take you to remote regions, unhurried towns, and wilderness that will literally leave you breathless.

Tasmania is a place where you want to stop and stay awhile, when you're short on time, our edit of things to do in Tasmania is a fine taste for what's on offer. Your epic weekend getaway starts right here...

The Source at MONA

This one is an essential dining experience. Perched atop MONA, The Source is a temple to seasonal Tasmanian dining. Settle in for sweeping views, lush and living moss-and-herb tables, an award-winning wine list, truly impeccable service, and some of Chef Terry Clark's magical dishes. Lap up Pacific oysters swimming in bay oil, wasabi mayo, apple and seaweed vinegar, as well as the delightful (and stunningly designed) smorrebrod seafood salad, served with rye bread and cultured butter, before promptly devouring their epic truffle cheese toastie. The wild harvest venison, pappardelle with mushroom ragout, burnt onion puree, confit yolk and a garlic and sage crunch are also too good to pass up. And if you don't order the Paris mash, you'll miss out on a truly velvety and oh so buttery delight.

Fun fact: The Source only serve up meat and seafood that is local, wild and sustainable; think venison, rabbit and line-caught local fish. A strong ethos and a stronger culinary game than most, we cannot rave about The Source highly enough. 

Ether Building, 655 Main Road, Berriedale 

The Agrarian Kitchen Eatery 

In this old mental asylum, the large windows and high ceilings with original pressed metal set the scene for a truly authentic Tasmanian dining experience. Drawing on local produce, the owners let the produce speak for itself at The Agrarian Kitchen Eatery - all cooked in a handcrafted wood-fired oven, grill and hot smoker. Love their paddock-to-plate dishes? Then join the Agrarian Kitchen Cooking School & Farm where you can learn farm-based cooking in a 19th-century schoolhouse. By far, a must on any list of things to do in Tasmania.

The Agrarian Kitchen Eatery - 11A The Avenue, New Norfolk

The Agrarian Kitchen Cooking School & Farm – 650 Lachlan Road, Lachlan

Dier Makr

Tucked away in the streets of Hobart an assuming shopfront belies what lays within, a foodie haven that shines a spotlight on Tasmanian produce, with a killer wine list to match. Dier Makr is a degustation-style restaurant, where you will be eating each dish with your hands, and this is all just part of the fun when you're working your way through each dish which has been perfectly executed.

123 Collins Street, Hobart

Stillwater Restaurant

On the banks of the Tamar River, the historic mill at the Cataract Gorge has been turned into a foodie destination - a must visit of things to do in Tasmania. Only expect the very best of Tasmanian produce here that changes with the season. There is a two-course minimum, but honestly, one look at Stillwater's menu and you'll be ordering the full shebang. Upstairs, a seven-room boutique hotel, SEVEN, overlooks the Tamar River, and it offers the full restaurant menu as room service.

2 Bridge Road, Launceston

Fico

Blurring the lines between fine dining and a traditional bistro, this small seater restaurant in Hobart has two tasting menus and a small bar menu. The 'Let Us Cook For You' six-course menu has long been a local favourite, but with the introduction of their eight-course menu, which focuses on local game, sea urchin and hand-dived abalone, that's all about to change. Fico is definitely a restaurant not to miss out on during your stay. 

151 Macquarie Street, Hobart

Peppina

Peppina is the warm expression of whole-hearted Italian feasting, and Tasmanian produce plays a central part to its menu. Pared back and uncomplicated, go for the flavoursome antipasti, steaming bowls wagyu paccheri or the fish of the day, combined with a warm and cosy setting that captures nostalgic old-world hospitality. The kitchen is central to the open, expansive space, which is anchored by two productive olive trees, surrounded by handmade furniture, artisan brick work, leather booths and abundant history. Dining trattoria style has never looked better!

2b Salamanca Place, Hobart

Frogmore Creek Cambridge

Only a 15-minute drive from Hobart is Frogmore Creek Cambridge Winery. Dine amongst rolling vineyards and sip on local wines from Frogmore Creek and other wineries in the area. The menu is made up of 3 sections including, from the sea, from the land, and from the garden. Our tip: arrive early and enjoy a complimentary wine tasting before you settle in for lunch.

699 Richmond Road, Cambridge

Lobster Shack

Tasmania knows fresh seafood, and the Lobster Shack is no exception. Located on the Bicheno coastline, The Lobster Shack specialises in, you guessed it, lobster. Choose between their classic lobster roll, Lobster Mornay, or go all out and order the seafood platter. All of which can be enjoyed outside on their deck overlooking the breathtaking Tasmanian coastline. 

40 Waubs Esplanade, Bicheno

Born in Brunswick

A little slice of Melbourne's café scene in Hobart's north, Born in Brunswick is where coffee's made right – blend and single origin espresso as well as batch brew and pour over filter coffee. And if you're after a drink with a bit more spice, take a look at their cocktail selection. From the mural artwork on the building's façade to timber furnishings and pops of greenery, everything about this café is bright, airy and colourfully delicious.

410 Elizabeth Street, North Hobart

Pigeon Hole Bakers

This trendy Hobart bakery is a must-visit for pastry lovers. Dine in and watch their bakers at Pigeon Hole whip up sweet treats through the glass windows at the back of the café. Their coffee is also not to be missed; it's some of the best in the city! It's easy to see why both locals and tourists love this hidden gem.

32 Argyle Street, Hobart 

berta

A bright, fresh and local city café in the heart of Hobart, berta has a network of local and organic Tasmanian producers that help shape their seasonal menu. Head to this bright, multi-roomed venue for tasty breakfast fare such as brown rice pudding with blueberries, rhubarb, maple and a gingerbread crunch, mixed local mushrooms and ricotta on toast, and a Mediterranean breakfast plate that includes shakshuka, falafel, olives, feta, pickles, tahini yoghurt, and a pomegranate salad. Breakfast is better at berta, but so is lunch, with plates serving up a hearty slice of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flair. 

119 Liverpool Street, Hobart 

Sisterhood

A fantastic addition to Tasmania's food and drink scene is Sisterhood. Designed by Biasol Design, this all-day eatery is inspired by Tulum. The tropical prints, playful colours and rattan furniture make this an Insta-worthy brunch or dinner spot. With an extensive menu, there's something for everyone at this Sandy Bay café. 

4/48 King Street, Sandy Bay 

Havilah 

Food designed for sharing and a wine list designed to discover new favourites from near and far – including its own Two Tonne Tasmania and Havilah wines – Havilah is a compact and stylish wine bar that settled into Launceston’s dynamic food and wine scene in 2020. Havilah’s wine list is encouraging of Tasmanian and grower-producer labels, accompanied by an enticing grazing menu that is driven by local and seasonal produce, from free-range and wild meats, to luscious local cheeses. Stop for some Tasmanian scallops with nduja, fresh oysters or a simple dish of zesty white beans with your vino, or stay longer for the full ‘Let Us Feed You’ selection.  

178 Charles Street, Launceston 

Mary Mary

A portal to a world of fine drinking hidden behind the sandstone walls of the old St Mary's Hospital building in Hobart, Mary Mary is a cocktail bar housing a curious library of spirits. Pick your poison and escape into the luxurious old-world depths of this moodily lit space, with leather detailing and marble table-tops adding to its allure. 

2a Salamanca Place, Hobart

Sonny

Wine bars with a strong focus are Hobart's bread and butter, and one of the best in town is Sonny. This tiny space is dedicated to simple pleasures, with records spinning, bespoke wines pouring and minimalist decor bringing the focus to the vibrant buzz of its intimacy. The blackboard is dressed up as an impressive wine list, with over 45 varieties to select from. If you are after a bite to eat, the signature seasonal pasta dishes are essential eating, as are the simple small plates and epic tiramisu spoons. For walk ins only.

120a Elizabeth Street, Hobart

Evolve Bar

A luxury lounge bar within the MACq01 Hotel, here you will be sipping on some of the finest spirits in the company of 37 different fossils displayed in glass cabinets. Although that alone would put Evolve Bar on any list of things to do in Tasmania, but that's just the tip of what they do so well. Evolve's waterfront location is befitting of their award-wining local and rare leather-bound spirits list. You'll find it all; whiskey, vodka, gin, sherry, vermouth, and of course, wine by the bottle.   

18 Hunter Street, Hobart

Turner Stillhouse 

This small batch distillery just outside of Launceston deserves a look in our guide of things to do in Tasmania, not least because of the absolutely delicious gin being crafted! Head to Turner Stillhouse for a friendly and insightful guided tour of the distillery, learning first hand how they produce their award-winning Three Cuts Gin. Tours include a guided tasting of all their core spirits (to note, their whiskies are still patiently aging). Afterwards, relax with a cocktail within the architecturally designed distillery, or purchase a bottle to continue the gin fling at home. 

Tours $25 per person, running 45-60 minutes 

1A Waldhorn Drive, Grindelwald 

Wukalina Walk

An absolute must when it comes to things to do in Tasmania, Wukalina Walk is a one-of-a-kind experience in North East Tasmania. Discover the Palawa culture first-hand in this three-night, four-day guided walk through Larapuna (Bay of Fires) and Wukalina (Mt William), the cultural homeland of the Palawa. The Palawa guides will take you on a journey in the footsteps of their traditional people, hear creation stories, participate in cultural practices, and sleep in Palawa-inspired domed huts.

Launceston

Port Arthur

For a glimpse into Tasmania's life as a penal colony and those that endured it, head to the notorious yet ever so intriguing historic site of Port Arthur. Explore on your own terms, but the best way to experience this haunted heritage site is via their Escape from Port Arthur Tour – a walking true-crime adventure, and then come back at night for the Port Arthur Ghost Tour. The on-site restaurant is a must for local seasonal dishes.

Arthur Highway, Port Arthur

MONA – Museum of Old and New Art

Immerse yourself in the world of art at MONA – an eclectic museum that plays on all the senses, and has been hailed as one of the world's best modern art musems. Just north of Hobart, MONA's ever-evolving collection and exhibition is a haven for art buffs. Yet, that's not all MONA does well. It's also a foodie hotspot – The Source Restaurant is a must, and the Void Bar is an experience in itself. And if you want to make a night of it, book a stay in at the Mona Pavilions located on the River Derwent. There is little doubt that MONA is one of the best things to do in Tasmania. 

655 Main Road, Berriedale

The Wall in the Wilderness

At Derwent Bridge in Tasmania's Central Highlands, artist Greg Duncan carved the history of the highlands into a three-metre-high and 100-metre long Huon Pine sculpture. Taking over a decade to complete, the realism of the people depicts the hardship and perseverance of settlement. Take a self-guided tour, and book ahead to avoid missing out. 

15352 Lyell Highway, Derwent Bridge

Discover Tassie in Three Days with Tasmanian Walking Company 

One of the primary reasons people travel to Tassie is for its stunning scenery and there's no better way to soak it up than by foot. Tasmanian Walking Company's Long Weekend Walk Itineraries allow you to meander through the Tassie wilderness with their pack-free day hikes. They sort out all the logistics from locally sourced chef-inspired meals to accommodation, so you just need to turn up. They also include plenty of extras in their itineraries from morning coffees to evening foot massages. You can read more about their three-day walks here which include Bay of Fires, Tasman and Bruny Island. 

Visit one of the many stunning wineries surrounding Hobart

Tasmania has a wealth of impressive wineries (and distilleries) running the length breadth of its entire landscape, from the spectacular Tamar Valley Wine Trail outside of Launceston, to the Coal River Valley's capture of the best wineries near Hobart. Also known for its fine dining restaurants and fresh local produce, a visit to Coal River Valley is one of the best things to do in Tasmania for the foodie-oenophile in us all. Strike out for the day to the likes of Pooley Wines and Frogmore Creek (both a stone's throw from the stunning and historic town of Richmond, a noteworthy destination in itself), or to Devil's Corner, all for tastings with a hearty dose of scenery. For a beautiful, seasonally crafted lunch, Frogmore Creek is a must-try, where they invite you to try a hyper-local and innovative menu crafted from the sea, land and garden. 

Cool climate Pinot Noirs and elegant, textured Chardonnays, rustic charm and architectural beauty, seasonal dining and exquisite surrounds all await at these delightful Tasmania wineries. 

Sitchu Tip: No visit to Coal River Valley should end without a stop at Coal River Farm - their triple cream brie will have your cheese-loving heart a-swooning! Although, if you haven’t got time to check out the farm, they do have a gift shop back in Hobart. 

Frogmore Creek, 699 Richmond Road, Cambridge

Pooley Wines, 1431 Richmond Road, Richmond

Devil's Corner Vineyard, 1 Sherbourne Road, Apslawn

Cradle Mountain 

Strap on your hiking boots because there is so much to explore in this natural wonder. Located in the northern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Cradle Mountain is the poster child of Tasmania's hiking trails. Glacial lakes, ancient rainforests and alpine vegetation are just some of what you will discover. Stroll the short 20-minute trails or hike the world-famous six-day Overland Track - you will be in awe of the beauty of this national park. 

Salamanca Markets

Every Saturday, in the historic Salamanca Place next to Hobart's waterfront, 300 stalls pop-up for the day for Salamanca Markets to showcase Tasmania's finest (and freshest) farm-gate produce and handcrafted cheese, bread, wines and spirits. And while sampling all the delicious goodness, you will fall in love with Tasmanian craftsmanship – timber, ceramics, leather, glass, and bespoke jewellery. 

Salamanca Place, Hobart

Freycinet National Park 

Imagine this: Great Oyster Bay with Freycinet National Park and three pink-granite peaks of the Hazard mountain as the backdrop. Freycinet National Park is one good-looking spot to explore Tasmania's wilderness. Located on Tasmania's East Coast, walk to secluded bays, pristine beaches and the Insta-famous Wineglass Bay. Our advice? Come at sunrise or sunset for a truly magical view of the Hazards – a must when it comes to things to do in Tasmania. 

Table Cape Tulip Farm

This colourful tulip farm on the North West coast of Tasmania is a photographer's dream. One of the largest tulip farms in the Southern Hemisphere, that you can actually walk in, you'll be absolutely overcome with tulip fever. Flowering from late September to November, Table Cape Tulip Farm is a must-visit destination if you're in the area.

The Nut in Stanley 

The Nut in Stanley is a distinct attraction in northwest Tasmania, found in the historic village of Stanley. The remains of an ancient volcanic plug, The Nut is large and mostly flat, and can be circumnavigated on foot. Soak up the glorious views of nearby Stanley and surrounding farmland via the walking track, which takes about 10-20 minutes to navigate and is considered best for those who like an athletic challenge. Alternatively, you may opt for the chairlift; the ride lasts a swift five minutes, with plenty of fantastic photo opportunities along the way. Whatever you decide, once at the top you'll be greeted by 360 views of the surrounding area and are free to explore the plateau, which includes a moderate circuit track that takes about an hour to complete. Stop and capture more breathtaking views, this time including Bass Strait, and Rocky Cape National Park. 

Pumphouse Point

At the southern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a pristine lake that's the deepest in Australia. There's a 250-metre pier that juts out over the water and Pumphouse sits proudly at the end. The 18-room adults-only hotel is the definition of industrial-chic: it's imposing on the outside, yet cosy and luxurious inside, with floor-to-ceiling windows to soak up the incredible lake views.

1 Lake St Clair Road, Lake St Clair

Ship Inn Stanley

On the north-west coast of Tasmania, Ship Inn Stanley is a sophisticated stay with a storytelling style. Sitting at the base of The Nut Reserve and overlooking a dramatic coastline, Ship Inn is one of Stanley's most iconic buildings that has been given a lavish makeover. Each suite tells the story of a local character or place, using historical artefacts, original artwork, bespoke furnishings resulting in a vintage meets modern vibe. 

16 Alexander Terrace, Stanley

Captains Rest

Just footsteps away from the water, Captains Rest's secluded cabin awaits. A four-hour drive from Hobart on the West Coast of Tasmania, Captain's Rest is set within the sleepy fishing village of Strahan (the scenic route is a journey of its own) and is treasured for its fanciful surrounds. This adults-only retreat with ocean view Georgian windows and stylish, eclectic décor, tells a thousand stories.

Lettes Bay Historical Village, Strahan

The Tasman

A 5-star, Luxury Collection Hotel, The Tasman sits among the charming sandstone warehouses of Salamanca; a waterfront haven serving up Art Deco charm, contemporary design and plenty of luxurious details. Lounge in luxury, pamper yourself with high tea at Deco Lounge, savour Italian cuisine with a local twist from recognised chef Massimo Mele at onsite Peppina or indulge in modern takes on classic cocktails from the skilled mixologists of the and intimate cocktail bar, Mary Mary.

The rooms onsite offer up plush beds, original windows and artwork, custom furnishings, sweeping waterside views and restored fireplaces, a masterclass in understated elegance. The grand sense of history is interplayed perfectly with the excellent modern amenities available, allowing for a sincerely comfortable and striking stay. 

Sitchu Tip: Treat yourself to The St. David’s Park Suite, the crown jewel of the heritage building, that overlooks its namesake park and features a lofty ceiling made from the first ships arriving in Hobart. 

12 Murray Street, Hobart

MACq01

Perched on Hobart's Hunter Street wharf, MACq01 attracts culture vultures and design lovers alike. Each of the 114 rooms tells the tale of a character in Tasmania's history, from convicts and explorers to political figures. There is a range of rooms, suites and penthouses on offer, all of which are equipped with walk-in wardrobes and minibars filled with Tasmanian goodies. Downstairs, the Old Wharf Restaurant and Story Bar overlook the water.

From $270 per night. Book here

18 Hunter Street, Hobart

Stillwater Seven 

For a luxe stay close to the CBD of Launceston, it’s hard to go past Stillwater Seven housed in a historic 1830s flour mill. Walking distance from everything, yet with an outlook over kanamaluka/River Tamar, these seven carefully designed moody rooms above the Stillwater restaurant are well placed for the best of both worlds. Oh, and did we mention the full restaurant menu from Stillwater below is available as room service? Yes, even a three-course meal can be had while kicking back in the bathtub. 

2 Bridge Road, Launceston 

The Polaire Suite 

The Polaire Suite is spacious, light-filled and strikingly minimalist, a sweet retreat on St David's Park just across from the famous Salamanca Place. 

Housed within a character rich original building dating back to 1929, it's been completely transformed and beautifully styled with statement design pieces, original local artwork and luxurious natural finishes in sub-Antarctic hues. 

Luxurious in scale, the fully self-contained interior's most elegant features include a generous king bedroom with separate open plan living and dining area, lofty ceilings and a North facing aspect towards kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Breathtaking herringbone oak floors and soft, glowing light veiled by linen sheers create a peaceful ambience. A palette of muted greys with layers of cotton, wool and linen are styled for a restful escape. 

Our favourite feature of all? The blissful walk-in rain shower. Guests also receive priority status at the award-winning Institut Polaire downstairs. It's notoriously difficult to get into, and you don't want to miss out on trying the Antarctic dry martini. 

1 Sandy Bay Road, entry off Davey Street, Hobart

This list is only a glimpse of all the things to do in Tasmania, but when you're short on time, these are your must-dos. And for those spending a bit of time Tasmania's capital, be sure to check out our edit of things to do in Hobart, as well as the best hotels.