Things to do in Launceston: Where to Eat, Drink, Stay and Play

Launceston has never needed summer to do its best work. In winter, the northern Tasmanian city draws the season close: mist over Cataract Gorge, pinot in the glass, fires in dining rooms, truffles pulled from dark earth and that particular Tasmanian talent for making cold weather feel like an invitation.

Expedia has named Launceston one of Australia’s top 10 winter holiday destinations, with the city coming in up to 25 per cent cheaper and 45 per cent less crowded in winter than peak summer periods. The timing makes sense. As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Launceston sits in the middle of serious produce country, with cool-climate wineries, farm gates, distilleries, brewers, restaurants and wine bars all within easy reach.

But the best things to do in Launceston stretch well beyond the table. Cataract Gorge gives the city its wild edge, while Harvest Market, QVMAG, City Park, heritage streets, riverside walks, design-led stays and Tamar Valley day trips give it proper long-weekend range. From winter feasting and whisky to cellar doors, galleries, nature walks and stylish places to stay, this is our guide to the best things to do in Launceston.

Things to do in Launceston: Festivals & Events

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Fungi the Festival

From 30th May to 7th June 2026, Fungi the Festival sends Launceston into full mushroom mode: forest forays, truffle hunts, grow-your-own workshops, fungi feasts, films, talks, art and a town-wide tasting trail across cafes, restaurants and bars. Start at Harvest Market for growers and wild fungi displays, head to Du Cane for talks, screenings and mushroom pizza, or travel to Deloraine for truffle dogs and winter soil drama. Strange, clever and truly Tasmanian, it’s one of the best things to do in Launceston this winter.

May 29th to June 7th, 2026

Island Escape Winter Festival

Island Escape Winter Festival is Launnie making a cold weekend look like a very good idea. From 3rd to 5th July 2026, Inveresk Precinct fills with firelight, food, drink, art, roaming performers, light shows and the sort of music line-up that refuses to behave like a side note: Spiderbait, Birds of Tokyo and Hot Dub Time Machine. There are chef’s tables, masterclasses, VIP tastings and kids’ programming too, because winter in Launceston apparently now comes with oysters, dancing and somewhere decent to stand near a flame.

3rd to 5th July, 2026

Inveresk Precinct, 2 Invermay Road, Invermay

NORTH Festival

NORTH Festival is Launceston, refusing to behave like a small town once spring arrives. From 8th to 18th October 2026, the CBD turns into a roaming excuse to eat, drink and follow your nose: producer dinners, cocktail nights, cooking demos, cellar-door cameos, bar takeovers and menus built around the north’s farms, fisheries, breweries and stills. The full program is scheduled to drop closer to October, but the point is already clear: Launnie knows exactly what it is doing with a plate and a glass, and NORTH gives it ten days to show off.

8th to 18th October, 2026

Things to do in Launceston: Eat

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Havilah 

Havilah is Launceston’s sharp little argument for drinking Tasmanian wine at the source. Opened in 2020, the Charles Street bar, kitchen and bottle shop is home base for Havilah, Two Tonne Tasmania and Woodlawn, with local pinot, chardonnay and riesling sitting beside bottles from further afield. The food follows the same logic: seasonal, snackable, made for grazing without turning dinner into a lecture. Book a tasting, order the “Let Us Feed You” menu, or drop in for a glass that becomes two.

178 Charles Street, Launceston 

Black Cow Bistro

A must for steak lovers, Black Cow Bistro is a tribute to Tasmania’s finest beef. The grill menu boasts six premium cuts, from Cape Grim rib-eye to slow-cooked Robbins Island Wagyu rump, paired with indulgent sauces like truffled béarnaise or roasted garlic demi-glaze. Each steak is served with a potato galette topped with Dijon cream and chives, while the extensive wine list ensures the perfect Tasmanian red to match.

70 George Street, Launceston

Pachinko

Pachinko’s return gave Launceston back one of its best little Quadrant Mall rooms. After closing in 2023, the modern Asian favourite is trading again with the bones locals loved: pickles, karaage, crisp fried eggplant, dumplings, sashimi, prawn milk buns, cauliflower katsu and a Feed Me menu for anyone wise enough to stop negotiating with the table. Lunch brings ramen into play, with tonkotsu and mazemen keeping things suitably slurpable, while sake, craft brews and natural-leaning wines give the small room its late-night pull.

23 Quadrant Mall, Launceston

Felix Espresso & Wine

Felix Espresso & Wine gives Cimitiere Street Italian voltage from morning coffee to late lunch. From the Tinka Coffee Brewers team, this Launceston address moves between espresso, fresh pasta, small plates, cocktails and wine with Tasmanian ease: produce-led, lively and never self-important. The room brings light, clatter and quick service, equally suited to a takeaway coffee, a bowl of pasta or one more glass before the afternoon disappears.

4/112 Cimitiere Street, Launceston

LeKoh

LeKoh gave George Street a sharper cafe pulse when it arrived in late 2024. Coffee comes strong, matcha gets real attention, and the charcoal-smoked sandwiches bring a smoky, generous edge to the lunch run. Behind the counter, cream-filled croissants and Japanese-leaning sweets tend to disappear early, while the room keeps things bright, neat and quick on its feet. Go for caffeine, stay for something smoky, flaky or green.

55 George Street, Launceston 

Valley Coffee

Valley Coffee has the pleasing air of somewhere discovered before the city is fully awake. Set in the old stables on Paterson Street, it catches the morning light and the early crowd: cyclists unclipping, dog walkers at the door, office types pretending the Reuben is not the real reason they crossed town. Coffee is taken seriously, pastries vanish with speed, and the bagels do useful, buttery work.

old stables, 39 Paterson Street, Launceston

Bread + Butter 

At Bread + Butter, the name is instruction and appetite. This Launceston bakery-cafe makes sourdough and small-batch butter in-house, with Tasmanian Butter Company working on site and Single O coffee keeping pace. Croissants, pastries and toasties draw the morning crowd, but breakfast and lunch go bigger: espresso-butter French toast, pies, quiches, omelettes, parmesan and crisp bacon from one clever address.

70 Elizabeth Street, Launceston 

Stillwater 

Stillwater is Launceston at its most assured: a historic flour mill on the banks of kanamaluka/Tamar River, turned into one of Tasmania’s great dining addresses. The kitchen works close to the region, pulling in local growers, makers and producers for food that feels deeply tied to place without ever getting preachy about it. Breakfast, lunch or dinner, this is where Launceston’s UNESCO City of Gastronomy status starts making immediate sense. Then there’s Stillwater Seven upstairs, where seven rooms turn the whole thing into a stay worth planning around.

2 Bridge Road, Launceston 

Boatyard Launceston

For brunch, lunch, or dinner along the scenic Tamar River, Boatyard is a must-visit. Overlooking one of Australia’s oldest slip yards, it’s best enjoyed at sunset from the balcony, framed by Cataract Gorge and the flowing river. This waterfront gem offers elevated casual dining, from morning coffee and omelettes to fish and chips on Wednesdays. Indulge in freshly shucked Tassie oysters, small plates like sashimi and croquettes, or heartier dishes like pork belly and market fish.

13 Park Street, Launceston

Frankie’s Coffee House

Frankie’s Coffee House has the offbeat charm of a place that inherited good furniture and better instincts. Set inside the former Franco’s on George Street, it pairs Zimmah coffee with breakfast pizza, Manu pastries, local sweets and a seasonal brunch menu that refuses to behave like standard cafe fare. Armchairs, retro touches and a little Italian Nonna energy give the room its personality, while the food keeps things playful: sweet, savoury, caffeinated and very easy to over-order.

42 George Street, Launceston

Things to do in Launceston: Drink

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Du Cane Brewery

Du Cane turns an old camping goods store into Launceston’s most social beer hall: working brewery, wood-fired pizzas, house-made bread and a three-sided glass fireplace doing serious winter work. Beer paddles make the case for trying the range, while Tassie whisky, gin and wine keep non-hop drinkers happy. Big room, local crowd, and an excellent reason to cancel dinner elsewhere, frankly.

60-64 Elizabeth Street, Launceston

Saint John

A staple of Launceston’s beer scene, Saint John is a small bar with a massive selection of craft beers, plus shelves stocked with Tasmanian spirits and wines—making every drink here a true celebration of local produce. While the 16 beers on tap might steal the spotlight, the kitchen holds its own, dishing out bar classics like burgers, tacos, charcuterie, cheese boards, fried halloumi, chicken tenders, and a standout pickle plate.

133 Saint John Street, Launceston

Tatler Lane by Sweetbrew 

Tatler Lane is Launceston’s lane-way switch hitter: specialty coffee and brunch by day, cocktails and snacks on Friday and Saturday nights. Down St John Street, the Sweetbrew crew roast on site and run a vegetarian-leaning menu before the lights drop, and the bar takes over. The drinks list has some nerve, with butter-washed miso-whiskey old fashioneds and other clever little oddities, while cheese boards, olives and arancini keep the table from pretending it only came for one.

5/74-82 St John Street, Launceston 

The Royal Oak Hotel

For top-notch live music, great drinks, and some of the best pub food in Launceston, head to the Royal Oak Hotel. This revitalised classic embraces its heritage while offering a seasonal bistro-style menu and a lively band room showcasing local and Aussie talent. Stay for sundown cocktails on the rooftop bar and soak up the warm, community-driven atmosphere brimming with Tasmanian charm.

14 Brisbane Street, Launceston

Josef Chromy 

Just south of Launceston, the award-winning Josef Chromy winery is a must-visit. Surrounded by century-old gardens, it’s often hailed as one of Australia’s best. Enjoy a wine tasting in the elegant cellar door before indulging in regional flavours at the acclaimed on-site restaurant, where fresh, local produce takes centre stage.

370 Relbia Road, Relbia   

Things to do in Launceston: Stay

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Wahroonga on Bourke

Wahroonga on Bourke sits above Launceston with the poise of a house that has seen the city change beneath its windows. Set on the lower level of a 1901 Federation home, this self-contained apartment folds city views, local artwork, a modern kitchenette and a bathroom with dual sinks and heated floors into one considered little stay. The CBD is close, Cataract Gorge is closer than it seems fair, and the mood is quietly adult: a place for slow mornings, good linen and watching Launceston gather itself below.

28 Bourke Street, Launceston

Henry’s on Balfour

Henry’s on Balfour is a Launceston accommodation providing understated opulence in a beautifully restored two-story Victorian terrace. Built in 1881, this historic building combines Victorian charm with modern luxury, boasting spacious rooms, high ceilings, and carefully selected furnishings. Just a short 5-minute walk from Charles Street and its bustling cafe scene, guests can easily explore the city’s charming streets from this exclusive and ever-so calming escape. 

100 Balfour Street, Launceston

Stillwater Seven 

For a beautiful stay near Launceston’s CBD, Stillwater Seven makes a very strong case for checking in and barely leaving the building. Set above Stillwater restaurant in a historic 1830s flour mill, the boutique stay has just seven rooms overlooking kanamaluka/Tamar River, each shaped with calm, considered detail. Downstairs, one of the city’s best dining rooms waits; upstairs, a three-course dinner can arrive by room service, ready to be taken from the bath if the mood strikes. It’s Launceston at its most deliciously self-contained.

2 Bridge Road, Launceston 

The Stable Lofts 

Just 15 minutes from Launceston, this dreamy escape is tucked within the lush gardens of a historic estate. The Stable Lofts, featuring charming mud-brick walls and warm timber accents, offer a gloriously rustic country retreat. Start your day by collecting free-range eggs and fresh herbs for breakfast, then unwind in the evening with complimentary hot cocoa and marshmallows by the fire pit.

1 Church Street, Carrick 

Hotel Verge 

In the heart of Launceston, Hotel Verge stands as the city’s loveliest boutique stay. Warm timber walls contrast with exposed concrete ceilings, preserving its industrial heritage, while dark furnishings create a modern yet cosy ambiance. The on-site restaurant serves seasonal menus for breakfast and dinner, but if you’re keen to explore, the hotel is just a short stroll from Launceston’s best dining spots.

50 Tamar Street, Launceston

Peppers Silo Hotel

With sweeping views over Seaport, Royal Park, the Tamar River Basin, and Cataract Gorge, Peppers Silo is a luxurious stay in a historic setting. Once grain storage silos, the beautifully designed rooms and suites now offer a refined escape. Its on-site restaurant, Grain of the Silos, takes inspiration from its past, serving exceptional local produce. Positioned on the water’s edge and just a short stroll from the CBD, it’s one of the best places to stay—or dine—in Launceston.

89-91 Lindsay Street, Invermay

Things to do in Launceston: Play

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Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery

QVMAG splits across two Launceston sites: the Queen Victoria Museum at Inveresk and the Art Gallery at Royal Park, linked by a free shuttle. Museum days bring Tasmanian tiger history, railway stories and a planetarium; the gallery shifts into ceramics, fine art and lutruwita/Tasmania’s First Nations culture. Leave time for both; together, they give the city its cleverest wander.

Museum: 2 Invermay Road, Launceston 

Art Gallery: 2 Wellington Street, Launceston

Tasmania Zoo

Tasmania Zoo sits 20 minutes from Launceston, with more than 1000 animals ranging from Tasmanian devils, wombats, quolls and Bennetts wallabies to giraffes, lions, tigers and meerkats. Its conservation work gives the visit extra weight, especially Devil’s Heaven, the breeding program helping protect devils from disease. A strong half-day trip for families, animal lovers and curious travellers alike.

1166 Ecclestone Road, Riverside

Cataract Gorge 

No Launceston trip gets very far without Cataract Gorge. A short walk from the city, this cliff-edged reserve cuts along the South Esk River with walking trails, peacocks, pademelons, a swimming pool and enough drama to make the CBD feel oddly far away. Cross the suspension bridge, follow the paths to lookouts, or take the chairlift above First Basin for the full sweep of rock, water and green. It is part bushwalk, part local ritual, part very good excuse to stay outside longer.

Harvest Market

Harvest Market is one of Launceston’s best Saturday morning rituals, bringing the region’s farmers, growers and makers into the city each week. Start with breakfast from a food van and coffee from Ritual Coffee, then work your way through stalls piled with local produce, cheese, meat, nuts, vegetables, mushrooms, flowers, gin and cider. For anyone chasing the best things to do in Launceston, this is the city’s food culture at street level.

8:30am to 12:30pm, Saturdays 

71 Cimitiere Street, Launceston 

Design Tasmania 

It’s no secret that Tasmania is home to some talented makers and artisans, and at the non-profit Design Tasmania, you can walk through the architecturally splendid rooms to explore their very worthy showcase of craftsmanship. The permanent Wood Collection exhibition is of particular note, while at The Store you’ll find a huge range of furniture, homewares, jewellery and other handmade wares to shop in-store or online.  

Corner of Brisbane Street & Tamar Street 

Tamar Valley Wine Trail 

Fifteen minutes from Launceston, the Tamar Valley Wine Trail turns a city break into a cool-climate crawl through pinot, sparkling, riesling and river country. More than 30 vineyards dot the route, from sleek cellar doors to small family producers, with tastings often framed by orchards, pasture and kanamaluka/Tamar River views. Build a day around Josef Chromy, Tamar Ridge, Holm Oak or Pipers Brook, then let the road do its best work: slow bends, good bottles, lunch somewhere generous and the very Tasmanian urge to buy a mixed dozen.

Open 7 days 

City Park

City Park is Launceston’s grand little surprise package: Victorian-era gardens, old trees, picnic lawns, a duck pond, giant chess and, rather unexpectedly, Japanese macaques watching the whole civic performance with mild suspicion. Set right in the city, it is easy to fold into a Launceston day between coffee, QVMAG and lunch. Visit the John Hart Conservatory, let kids loose at the playground, or take your time under the trees. For one of the best things to do in Launceston for free, this park still has plenty of spark.

45-55 Tamar Street, Launceston

Princes Square

Princes Square gives central Launceston a graceful green pause: lawns, old trees and a Victorian fountain set just off Elizabeth Street. Bring cheese, fruit and a blanket, or drop in between galleries, shopping and lunch.

Sitchu Tip: Follow the garden mood to Havilah afterwards for a glass of wine nearby.

Got more time up your sleeve while in Tassie and looking to explore beyond the bounty of things to do in Launceston? Try our list of things to do in Tasmania for more holiday inspiration. Looking for more incredible restaurants in Launceston? Head over here instead.