Prepare for a feast of the senses in Hobart, home to provocative art, stunning natural beauty, a flourishing foodie scene and a whisky industry to delight even the most discerning collector.

The second oldest capital city in Australia (after Sydney), Hobart is proof that great things come in small packages. The city itself sits at the foothills of Mt Wellington, providing easy access to hiking trails and scenic lookouts. For adventure-lovers, it’s the perfect place to spend a few days before and after undertaking one of Tasmania’s famed multi-day hikes, island adventures or luxurious beach escapes. There’s lots to discover in this historic city, from impeccably-preserved convict sites to the waterfront precinct dotted with galleries, theatres, markets and restaurants - but don’t be fooled by Hobart’s quiet side. It’s also home to laneways filled with graffiti and one of the world’s most confronting collections of modern art at Mona. Come festival time the city erupts in excitement. Whether it’s food, whisky, yacht racing or art and music, there’s always a reason to celebrate here. 

When to visit

Summer is peak season in Tasmania, so book well in advance, especially if you’re coming for the Taste of Tasmania or Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race events. Lavender is in bloom, so don’t miss your chance to get that perfect purple photo. Autumn also brings beautiful foliage as the trees turn orange and red, while the weather is generally calm with sunny days. Spring is a great time to see local tulip festivals and enjoy the longer days, making it popular for hiking. Despite the cold, winter can still be a great time to visit Hobart. You can head to the mountains to find snow and spot the Southern Lights or cosy up in front of a fire and sip local wine. It’s also when you’ll find Dark Mofo festival and Tasmanian Whisky Week are on. 

Find out more about seasonal weather in Hobart.

How to get there

Hobart has direct flights from the cities of Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. From Hobart Airport it's a 20-minute drive into the city.