Looking for the best day trips from Hobart? This guide will help you discover exciting destinations you can visit on a short drive!
Hobart is the delightful capital of Tasmania. It may be small in size, but it’s brimming with personality.
It boasts exceptional wineries and distilleries, and a historic city center that tells fascinating stories of the past. Set against a beautiful waterfront, it’s a lovely place to explore on your Tasmania adventure!
But if you have more time, consider venturing beyond Hobart. Many incredible spots are just a short drive away from the city and ideal for day trips. You might be surprised by how much you can see and do, even with a busy schedule!
For instance, if you only have a day to spare, why not embark on the breathtaking Cape Hauy hike and return to Hobart in time for dinner? If you’re more interested in wildlife, take a ferry to Maria Island, where you can encounter the charming, quirky wombats. For those who love history, embark on a trip to the historic Port Arthur, home to Australia’s best-preserved convict settlement.
All you need is a bit of planning, a full petrol tank, and perhaps, a National Parks pass. With those essentials ready, you’re set for an unforgettable Tasmania adventure!
Read next: The 25 Best Things to Do in Tasmania
Table of Contents
11 Best Day Trips From Hobart, Tasmania
Hobart has plenty to entertain you, but the real magic happens when you venture beyond the city center. So, make the most of your visit by hiring a rental car for the day and exploring these amazing destinations on a day trip from Hobart.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
1. Cape Hauy
- Distance from Hobart: 60 miles
- Driving time: 1 hour and 28 minutes
Located just 90 minutes southeast of Hobart, Cape Hauy is famous for its dramatic rock formations and offers some of the most epic hikes in Tasmania.
If you don’t have time to take on the full 48-kilometer Three Capes Lodge Walk, don’t worry. You can still experience the magic by hiking the Cape Hauy leg, a shorter section of the trail. This rewarding hike only takes 3-4 hours and promises breathtaking coastal scenery.
Park your car at the Fortescue Bay camping ground. Before you set off, ensure your day pack is stocked with water and snacks to keep your energy up during the hike.
As you embark on your journey, you’ll meander through the stunning heath and woodlands of Tasman National Park, enveloped by the soothing sounds of nature. Keep an eye on the sky, as eagles frequently glide above!
Read next: The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Three Capes Track in Tasmania
2. Mount Field National Park
- Distance from Hobart: 52 miles
- Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Offering exceptional beauty all year round, Mount Field is often called “the park for all seasons”. It is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, home to some of the tallest eucalypt forests in the world, including an incredible variety of alpine vegetation that changes with the seasons.
Getting here is easy as well. Mount Field National Park is only a 90-minute drive from Hobart, making it perfect for a day trip.
Take a leisurely walk through the captivating forest as you head towards Russell Falls. You’ll encounter impressive tree ferns and grand giant eucalypts, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Mount Field National Park. This brief, easy trail is suitable for everyone.
If you’re up for more adventures, drive to Lake Dobson. Here, you’ll find longer day hikes that lead to breathtaking alpine scenery.
In winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, with Mount Mawson ski field offering slopes for those eager to hit the snow!
3. The Huon Valley
- Distance from Hobart: 20 miles
- Driving time: 40 minutes
Considered the traditional land of the Nuenonne people, the Huon Valley is an easy drive from Hobart. The lush region has earned its reputation as a food and wine lover’s paradise, perfect for those seeking a gourmet escape in Tasmania.
Begin your adventure with a scenic 30-minute drive to Willie Smith’s Apple Shed. Enjoy a crisp cider while savoring a charcuterie or Tasmanian cheese board, crafted from locally sourced ingredients.
Don’t miss the Southern Wine Trail, especially for wine lovers. Visit cellar doors such as Home Hill Winery or Kate Hill Winery to taste some of the finest cool-climate wines of Tasmania.
If you want to skip the drive through the Huon highway, why not book this guided Huon Valley Wine & Cider Tour and let someone else take you there? Departing from Hobart, this guided experience takes you through the region’s finest wineries and cider houses for a taste of Huon Valley’s finest wines & refreshing Cider.
4. Maria Island National Park
- Distance from Hobart: 40 miles
- Driving time: 1 hour
Maria Island is among the top national parks in Tasmania and makes a great day trip from Hobart. To fully enjoy your visit, take the first ferry from Triabunna, which takes about an hour to get to the island.
Since Maria Island is a car-free paradise, you’ll get around on foot or by bike. If you don’t have your own, you can rent bikes in Triabunna.
Even though Maria Island is small, it offers amazing walking trails and is full of wildlife. Be on the lookout for wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, and rare species like the swift parrot, Cape Barren goose, and, of course – the Tasmanian devil!
Maria Island has plenty of trails suitable for hikers of all levels. For an easy and scenic walk, start at the Painted Cliffs Track. This gentle stroll leads you to stunning rock formations known as the Painted Cliffs, perfect for taking photos and enjoying the island’s natural scenery.
Check out our full guide to Maria Island, Tasmania!
5. Port Arthur
- Distance from Hobart: 56 miles
- Driving time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Port Arthur is steep in history and charm. Home to Australia’s best-preserved convict settlement, this captivating destination is perfect for a day trip from Hobart. The journey itself is a treat, with a scenic 90-minute drive that sets the tone for an unforgettable visit.
Spanning over 40 hectares, Port Arthur feels like a small village frozen in time. You’ll find striking sandstone ruins, colonial-era historic buildings, and meticulously manicured gardens – all set against the shimmering backdrop of Carnarvon Bay.
Take your time exploring the Port Arthur Historic Site for there’s so much dark history to uncover here. Start at the eerie penitentiary, where hundreds of convicts lived in the mid-1800s – a haunting reminder of the past.
Stop by the Convict Church, an architectural marvel with its castle-like facade still standing, though the roof and floors are long gone.
6. Derwent Valley
- Distance from Hobart: 53 miles
- Driving time: 40 minutes
The Derwent Valley is the traditional land of the Leenowwenne people of the Big River Nation. Just a 40-minute drive from Hobart, it’s perfect for a quick day trip. But don’t rush. Take your time as you drive through the spectacular scenery. Rolling hills, lush forests, and serene river views make this journey as enjoyable as the destination.
The Derwent Valley is a food lover’s paradise, home to fruit farms, cooking schools, distilleries, and destination eateries.
Take a detour through charming towns like New Norfolk and Plenty. Wander through antique and jumble stores, and hunt for treasures. While there, admire the beautiful Georgian and Victorian architecture that adds character to the area.
For more incredible views, make your way to Pulpit Rock Lookout. From here, you can take in the sweeping sight of the river, the charming town of New Norfolk, and the mountains in the distance.
Driving through the gorgeous Derwent Valley is one of the most enjoyable Hobart day trips – a feast for the eyes and the taste buds!
Read next: The Ultimate Guide to CAMPING in TASMANIA
7. Bruny Island
- Distance from Hobart: 63 miles
- Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Bruny Island is a fun day trip from Hobart but try to hit the road early to make the most of your island adventure.
The first ferry from Kettering leaves around 6 AM and the last one back to the mainland departs around 7 PM. So, plan well to make the most of your Bruny Island adventure.
After the 20-minute ferry ride, you’ll drive through North Bruny, with plenty of stops along the road. Savor fresh, enormous oysters at Get Shucked, try some local cheeses at the Bruny Island Cheese Co., and grab some delicious baked goods from the roadside fridge at Bruny Island Baker. Once you’re fueled up, it’s time to explore!
Consider a guided day tour if you’d prefer not to drive across the island. The Bruny Island Tour from Hobart offers a full-day adventure with a local guide. It lets you enjoy an inclusive experience of exploring the island without the hassle of driving!
8. Richmond
- Distance from Hobart: 60 miles
- Driving time: 1 hour
Richmond is the perfect day trip from Hobart if you’re in Tasmania for a day. It feels like stepping into a charming English storybook town, yet it’s only an hour’s drive. With less effort, you’ll enjoy big rewards!
Located in the Coal River Valley, the road to Richmond is lined with wineries like Puddleduck, Pooley Wines, and Every Man and His Dog vineyard.
You’ll also find distilleries, farms, and shops selling homemade cheeses and chocolates. Be sure to stop by to stock up on the local goodies!
When you get to Richmond, check out the delightful antique shops and wine boutiques in town. Stroll through the historic buildings, such as the old Richmond Gaol.
After that, pick up some duck food and head to the riverbank park. Here, you can feed the ducks while marvelling at the magnificent view of the Richmond Bridge. Constructed by convict labour in 1825, it’s Australia’s oldest stone arch bridge.
9. Launceston
- Distance from Hobart: 63 miles
- Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Tasmania is one of Australia’s smallest states, allowing you to explore many of its main cities on a day trip from Hobart. One such city is the charming Launceston.
Driving between the two cities is a scenic delight, taking you along the aptly named “Heritage Highway”. This historic route is lined with quaint towns that beg for a quick stop – from the cobblestone streets of Oatlands to the timeless charm of Ross, Campbell Town, Tunbridge, and Longford.
When you arrive in Launceston, start your adventure at Cataract Gorge. This stunning park has a swimming pool, a suspension bridge, and a chair lift boasting panoramic views!
Launceston is also a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, so treat yourself to the region’s delights! Sip on Tamar Valley wine or indulge in local truffles, cheese, and fresh produce.
Check out City Park, home to playful monkeys, and the Queen Victoria Museum for some history lessons. Before driving back, unwind with a pint at a local brewery – a perfect end to your Hobart day trip!
10. Coal River Valley
- Distance from Hobart: 10 miles
- Driving time: 15 minutes
The Coal River Valley is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a short but sweet day trip from Hobart.
In only 15 to 20 minutes, you’ll leave the city behind and explore rolling vineyards and some of Tasmania’s most incredible wineries. The region also encircles the historic town of Richmond, so you could do both of these day trips in one.
Though the area only began producing wine in the 1970s, it has quickly become a hotspot for boutique wineries. These small-scale producers are known for crafting exceptional cool-climate wines, including Pinot Noir and Riesling.
While you’re here, visit celebrated vineyards like Pooley Wines or Puddleduck Vineyard. Pair your tastings with artisanal cheeses or a sumptuous lunch featuring local ingredients.
11. Freycinet National Park
- Distance from Hobart: 120 miles
- Driving time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Freycinet National Park is one of the longest day trips from Hobart, but it’s worth the drive! The views along the way are remarkable and the park itself is stunning!
If you start early, you’ll have plenty of time to explore. Make stops for food, drinks, and supplies as you go, for a relaxed and enjoyable journey along Tasmania’s East Coast.
When you arrive at Freycinet, embark on a scenic hike to the Wineglass Bay Lookout. It can be a little steep in some areas, but the views are rewarding. The 2.6 km return walk takes about an hour, but if you have extra time, consider doing the complete Wineglass Bay and Hazards Circuit.
Not only will you enjoy the stunning views of Wineglass Bay, but you can also swim in its crystal-clear waters. Then, hike back along the white sand beaches to complete the loop. This extra effort lets you fully appreciate the rugged beauty of Tasmania’s East Coast, making the long drive well worth it!
Read our full guide to the Wineglass Bay Walk and Hazards Beach Circuit
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