tasmania tour 5 days

Tasmania Explorer

Perfect Tasmania Itinerary 5 Days✅

Heading to Tasmania for 4 or 5 days and looking for the perfect itinerary? Fantastic!

Tasmania is a fabulous place to explore. While 4 or 5 days isn’t long, you can get a nice taste of a part of the state in this timeframe.

To ensure you have the best time possible, in this guide we give you not one, not two but three detailed options for either 4 days in Tasmania or 5 days in Tasmania.

These options are based on whether you start in Devonport or Hobart or whether you are flying down to Tasmania and don’t want to hire a car. We have an option especially for the no-car scenario. If you fly into Launceston instead, these itineraries will easily work from there too.

Simply keep reading and pick the Tasmania itinerary 5 days or 4 that fits your circumstance.

There’s also a section below if you are planning a Tasmania 3 days trip with advice on how you can modify our Tasmania 4 days itinerary to make it perfect for your situation.

If you have longer than this, check out our 7 day itinerary for Tasmania here or our 10 day itinerary for Tasmania here . We also have a 14 day option here .

Keep reading for your step-by-step Tasmania 4 days itinerary or Tasmania 5 day itinerary that you can simply follow day-by-day. This includes your stops, driving times and best places to stay. There are also maps to help you decide the best route for your 4 or 5 day tour Tasmania.

If you are starting from Launceston rather than Hobart or Devonport, note that distances in Tasmania are not huge and you can still do one of the Tasmania road trip itinerary in 5 days below simply by driving that bit further on arrival and at the end.

Note these itineraries are on the fast side. We assume you want to experience as much as possible and get a great taste of Tasmania on your trip. If you like to take things slower, I recommend you remove a destination or any stops that sound the least interesting to you.

This 4 or 5 day Tasmania itinerary is suitable for solo travellers, couples, friends and families.

Click here to download your free Tasmania Roap Trip Planner checklist .

We’ll help you get ready for your trip! Wan t help with your itinerary? Find our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here .

To Drive Or Not To Drive?

Tasmania is best seen by car. This is because attractions are spaced apart, and there is no easy way of getting between them except by road.

There are buses between major destinations, but these can be pricey and you’ll be limited by their schedule. It can be more cost effective to hire a car and drive between destinations yourself. There are taxis but they are expensive and only recommended for short distances.

However if you don’t want to drive you can get by without a car and still see some fantastic parts of the state, but note you’ll probably want to stick only to major attractions with easy bus access.

Below, there is a 5 day Tasmania itinerary which you don’t need a car for. There’s some great attractions on this itinerary and it utilises day tours to help you get around. Skip to that itinerary if this is your situation.

You can read more specifically about driving in Tasmania and how it differs to elsewhere here.

Tasmania Itinerary 5 Days – From Devonport

In this Tasmania road trip 5 days, you’ll have a great time exploring the best of north west Tasmania, the Tamar Valley and also get to hike in Cradle Mountain National Park. You’ll love the variety in this trip!

This option of Tasmania tours 5 days assumes starting and finishing at the Spirit of Tasmania and that you have your own car or will hire one ( find latest car hire prices here ).

If you are catching the Spirit of Tasmania to Tasmania, read our full guide here.

• Day 1 drive to Cradle Mountain once disembarking the Spirit and visit Dove Lake and surrounds
• Day 2 have some fun at Tasmazia, call in at Sheffield and then enjoy the beach at Boat Harbour
• Day 3 drive to the Edge of the World, consider an Arthur River Cruise or visit the Tarkine. Finish up in Stanley on the top of The Nut
• Day 4 explore historic Stanley before driving on to the Tamar Valley visiting either Seahorse World or Platypus House and watching the penguins come in at Low Head
• Day 5 see more of the Tamar Valley before driving back to the Spirit of Tasmania

The highlights of this Tasmania itinerary are:

• Hiking absolutely gorgeous Dove Lake
• Laughing your head off at Tasmazia
• Experiencing the prettiest beach in Tasmania
• Exploring historic Stanley
• Seeing the rugged west coast
• Sipping wines in the Tamar Valley

…and much more!

The following map shows the places you will visit in this itinerary.

Day 1: Exploring Cradle Mountain National Park

Driving time from Devonport: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Today your Tasmania trip begins! You’ll arrive in Devonport early in the morning and will disembark the Spirit of Tasmania, heading for Cradle Mountain.

• Arrive in Devonport. Have breakfast in Devonport and then drive to Cradle Mountain
• Park at the Visitors Centre and take the shuttle bus to Dove Lake
• Take a walk (long or short) and enjoy the beauty and serenity of this area
• Check-in to your hotel
• Head to Devils @ Cradle for an after dark tour to see the Tasmanian devil

Where To Stay In Cradle Mountain

• BEST – Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – Cradle Mountain Highlanders ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain (Dorm Rooms Available) ( Click here for more details )

Cradle Mountain

Your Tasmania trip begins with visiting one of the most popular and scenic spots in all of Tasmania – Cradle Mountain National Park. Visiting this stunning national park is a highlight of this itinerary, and its glacial lakes and alpine landscape result in an area unlike anywhere else.

Your visit will start at the visitors centre. There’s a large car park here and a modern building where you can purchase tickets for your visit (including your shuttle pass), get some advice from the guides and stop for a coffee or bite to eat at the cafe.

You’ll then make your way to the shuttle bus. Buses are frequent (arriving every 10 to 15 minutes during operating hours) and will take you to multiple stops along the way to Dove Lake.

There’s some fantastic walks you can do here. The Dove Lake circuit is a gentle 2-3 hour walk and highly recommended, but there are many other walks you can take (see a list here ). I recommend having some idea of what you’d like to do, as you can always discuss this with the guides at the visitors centre.

If you’re visiting with a young family and a long walk doesn’t suit you, I recommend visiting Dove Lake to take photos and then returning on the shuttle bus and doing a shorter walk like the Enchanted Walk. The Pencil Pine Falls and Rainforest walk is also a good option and only takes 10 minutes. Even our toddlers walked this 🙂

Devils @ Cradle

The endangered Tasmanian devil is only found here in Tasmania, so you’ll want to catch a glimpse while you can. The best way to do this is with an after dark tour at Devils @ Cradle.

These exciting tours start at 5:30pm (with a later session at 8:30pm only if the earlier session sells out) where you’ll find the Tasmanian devils at their most active. The feeding tour is a rare chance to see these fascinating animals up close and active, and an informative guide gives information on the devils, their behaviour, habitat and more.

You can also see other rare animals here like the spotted-tail quoll and the eastern quoll. As this is also a conservation sanctuary, you can feel that your visit is doing something good.

Day 2: Visit Tasmazia, Sheffield And Boat Harbour

Total driving time: 3 hours and 10 minutes

On day 2, you’ll leave Cradle Mountain for Boat Harbour, stopping at the interesting sites of Tasmazia and Sheffield along the way.

• Have breakfast at your hotel then head to Tasmazia
• Spend an hour or two exploring Tasmazia and The Village Of Lower Crackpot and have pancakes at the cafe
• Continue driving the short distance to Sheffield
• Check out the town of Sheffield, see the murals and visit Mount Roland Conservation Area
• Continue on to Boat Harbour, check-in to your accommodation and head to the beach for a walk or swim

Where To Stay In Boat Harbour

• BEST – Killynaught Spa Cottages ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – Boat Harbour Garden Cottages ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Boat Harbour Beach Holiday Park ( Click here for more details )

Read our full guide to Boat Harbour accommodation here.

Driving time from Cradle Mountain: 1 hour and 40 minutes

For something unique to add to your Tasmania itinerary (especially if you’re visiting with kids), I recommend stopping at Tasmazia & The Village Of Lower Crackpot.

Visiting here, it seems the site has been designed for the sole purpose of providing happiness and fun for visitors. You’ll find several mazes (with varying levels of difficulty), villages with miniature houses, buildings and monuments, jokes (for both adults and kids) and a cafe serving huge pancakes.

We enjoyed strolling through the model embassies and seeing the funny (and sometimes politically incorrect) names of the buildings. The kids enjoyed finding their way out of the mazes.

This place is definitely worth a visit for some easy going entertainment and a nice stretch of the legs. It’s one of the harder mazes I have done.

Click here to read our full review.

Driving time from Tasmazia: 15 minutes

A short drive from Tasmazia is the town of Sheffield, which is well worth a visit. It might surprise you that this small town receives over 200,000 tourists annually.

Sheffield is known as The Town Of Murals, a tradition that started in the 80’s and thrives today. The town hosts some annual events where artists come to add their work to the town.

Worth visiting is Mural Park where you can stroll around over 140 murals. The murals aren’t restricted to here however – you’ll find them all over town. Other places to visit include Sheffield’s Mural House and Kentish Museum for some information on the past of this town.

There isn’t a lot happening in this small town, but you can find a couple of places for lunch, including a good burger restaurant.

Mount Roland, which can be seen in the distance, is also nearby. Here, you can hike to the summit or do a bush walk, and Lake Barrington (with an international reputation for rowing) is also worth seeing.

Click here to read our full guide to visiting the Sheffield Murals.

Boat Harbour

Driving time from Sheffield: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Boat Harbour was rated one of the top 10 beaches in Australia, so it’s obvious why it’s featured here.

Even if you’re not visiting during warmer weather, I recommend stopping by this charming beach where you’ll find rock pools, white sand stretching along the coast and easy going waves. It’s not rare to spot marine life like dolphins and seals in the distance, and even the occasional whale.

There’s a small community here which adds to its charm, and it’s the perfect relaxing place to spend the night before heading on to your next destination.

Read our full guide to Boat Harbour here.

Day 3: Explore The Rugged North-West Coast

Total driving time: 2 hours and 35 minutes (depending on what you do)

Today, you’ll see more of Tasmania’s wilderness, and make some decisions as to what you’d like to do!

Note that Arthur River Cruises only operate outside of winter. If you do opt for an Arthur River Cruise, you may need to leave visiting the Nut in Stanley to the next day.

• Leave Boat Harbour in the morning and head to Edge of the World
• Take an Arthur River Cruise, or
• Spend some time exploring the Tarkine on the Tarkine Drive and have a picnic lunch
• Continue on to Stanley and take the chairlift or walk to the top of the Nut
• Check in to your accommodation and head to Stanley Hotel Bistro for dinner

Where To Stay In Stanley

• BEST – Horizon Deluxe Apartments ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – Stanley Village Waterfront Accommodation ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Stanley Cabin and Tourist Park ( Click here for more details )

Read our full guide to Stanley accommodation here.

Edge of the World

Driving time from Boat Harbour: 1 hour and 25 minutes

To feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world, head to the aptly named Edge of the World.

This isolated spot at the mouth of the Arthur River features a lookout point where the next landmass in the distance is Africa. As such, it feels like quite a lonely place to be with the powerful wind (the roaring forties) and waves hitting you as you look out to the sea.

There’s some plaques here which give some information on the area, the indigenous history and you’ll find a famous poem “on the shore of Eternity.” It is a unique place to visit where one can appreciate the power and magnificence of nature.

Arthur River Cruise

From the small settlement at Arthur River, the most interesting thing to do is an Arthur River Cruise. These cruises let you enjoy the beauty of the Tarkine in a unique way – from the comfort of the boat.

The cruises take you through the lush temperate rainforest and abundant birds and wildlife waiting to be spotted.

There are two tiers of cruises – the deluxe and red boat.

The deluxe cruises depart at 10:15am and return at 4:45pm, and take you up to Arthur River with a stop at Warra Landing for an included lunch undercover in the rainforest, as well as a walk to the stunning Warra Waterfalls. One of the best parts of these cruises is the flybridge deck which offers 360 degrees of viewing.

The red boat is a more affordable option and departs daily, leaving at 10am and returning at 3pm. It sails upstream and includes snacks and a BBQ lunch.

Both cruises are a fantastic way to see the Tarkine.

Note the cruise only operates outside of winter, and bookings are currently essential. Click here to learn more .

The Tarkine

The Tarkine is Tasmania’s largest temperate rainforest and it’s worth spending some time exploring this area.

A great way to do this is simply by driving. The Tarkine Drive is a 60 kilometre sealed loop through the Tarkine which takes you to some of the best spots to stop, walk and explore.

Starting at Kanunnah Bridge Picnic Area, you’ll see tall eucalyptus trees and the river in the distance. Julius River Forest Reserve is an excellent spot to stop for a picnic, and there is a half hour walk you can do here in the rainforest.

You could also relax with a picnic lunch at Milkshakes Hills Forest Reserve and then head to The Trowutta Arch Rain Forest Walk which is well worth the effort.

When you’re finished exploring, you can simply continue driving to Stanley.

Driving time to Stanley: 45 minutes

If there’s one thing you must see while in Stanley, it’s the Nut. In fact, it’s difficult not to see it – this big geological feature (which is the remains of an ancient volcanic plug) can be seen all around town and on the drive here.

But you can do more than just look at the Nut – you can walk on it!

At 143 metres tall, there are two ways to get to the top. You can climb a steep track or take the chairlift to the top. Climbing is free and the chairlift charges a fee (last time we were there it was $19 return for adults and $12 for kids). The chairlift is fun with great views but very steep!

Once you’re at the top, I recommend a 45 minute walk around the top of the Nut. There’s some great lookout points here over the town and the sea, and a surprising amount of natural diversity on top of the Nut.

However I do advise you to dress warm – it can get cold and VERY windy!

Unfortunately, this chair lift is closed in winter, usually from late June to early September. Walk around Stanley and explore if you arrive at this time of year. You could also choose to hike up the Nut instead.

Day 4: Visit Stanley And The Tamar Valley

Total driving time: 3 hours and 45 minutes (depending on what exactly you do)

On day 4, you’ll wake up in Stanley and explore this small town. Then make your way to the beautiful Tamar Valley and finish up in Low Head.

This will be a full day so get ready for some sightseeing!

• Start the morning with a visit to Highfield Historic House
• Continue on to the Tamar Valley and have lunch at a winery (we recommend Small Wonder Wines)
• Stop at Beauty Point and visit either Seahorse World or Platypus House (or both if you have time)
• Continue on to Low Head and check in to your accommodation. Have dinner in George Town  
• Take the Low Head Penguin Tour at sunset

Where To Stay In Low Head

• BEST – Low Head Pilot Station ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – Low Head Tourist Park ( Click here for more details )

Highfield Historic Site

Everything in the small town of Stanley is fairly close by, and Highfield Historic Site is just a 3 kilometre drive from the Nut.

This site features a restored early farm house from 1820. The entire site is an interesting place to explore and understand how early Tasmanian farms operated.

You can spend some time wandering through the pretty gardens on the property and also enter the house to see the rooms and memorabilia. The property is intact and there’s some good information on the lives of the early European settlers in this region.

It only costs $12 to enter and is open from 9:30am daily.

Address: Highfield, 143 Green Hills Rd, Stanley TAS 7331

You can read our full guide to Stanley here.

Tamar Valley Winery

Driving Time from Stanley: 2 hours 30 minutes depending on winery choice

The Tamar Valley has some great wineries that are picturesque and easy to enjoy. Of course, they also have great wines to try.

We love having lunch at a Tamar Valley winery that offers local platters. These are amazing affairs with tons of local produce to try that are all arranged on a big platter. From cold meats to fruits to cheeses and so much more, these have been some of the best (and definitely most memorable) meals we have had.

Our kids love them too.

And when you can sit back and enjoy views like the above and a glass of wine, you’ll be so sad that you’re coming to the end of your Tasmanian adventure 🙂

The only downside is that you usually need to order ahead to have a platter. Small Wonders Wines, pictured above, offers these and is a great place to enjoy on your way to Beauty Point.

Click here to read more about some great Tamar Valley wineries.

Seahorse World

Driving Time from Winery: 12 minutes – this depends on your winery choice

Upon entering Beauty Point you’ll see just how fitting the name is, and one of the most popular places to visit in this stunning location is Seahorse World.

This is the place to learn all about seahorses. Visits are conducted by a 45 minute tour where a guide takes you around the facility. We liked this method because you’re given plenty of interesting information and it’s the perfect amount of time to spend exploring the facility.

Expect to see a lot of seahorses (and some very small ones) as well as other marine life like starfish and some crabs. One of our favourite parts was the breeding centre where seahorses are separated by age.

Our kids loved it (and we did too). Tours run hourly but I recommend booking ahead to get your preferred time.

Address: 200 Flinders St, Beauty Point TAS 7270

Click here to read our full review or buy your ticket here .

Platypus House

Platypus House is another top destination in Beauty Point and the place to see platypus’ (and echidnas too!). This combination makes more sense when you learn that they are both Monotremes.

To enter, you need to book a 45 minute tour (book ahead to get your preferred time) which runs every hour. There’s a good amount of information here and a few platypus’ to see. We had never seen them this close up before and we all loved it.

Surprisingly one of our best experiences at Platypus House was when we sat in a circle with echidnas feeding in the middle! It’s rare you see these animals so close.

This is an interesting site to visit and 45 minutes is the perfect amount of time to spend here.

Low Head Penguin Tour

Driving Time from Platypus House: 46 minutes

Penguins are one of my favourite animals and one of the best things to do in Low Head is a Penguin Tour.

The Low Head Penguin Tour takes place at night on the Low Head Coast Reserve. By day, this beach can be accessed freely but by night you can only enter by tour. This is when the penguins come out and are most active.

A knowledgeable guide leads you through the beach/reserve and directs you to spots where you can spot the fairy penguins. When we visited, we were split into smaller groups and given our own guide. We also saw plenty of other animals like bandicoots and wallabies.

This is an enjoyable tour for both kids and adults and the best way to see these amazing animals in their natural habitat.

Address: 485 Low Head Rd, Low Head TAS 7253

Day 5: See More Of The Tamar Valley Before Departing

Total driving time: 2 hours and 15 minutes 

On your final day, you’ll leave Low Head and spend some more time exploring the Tamar Valley before heading to Devenport for your ferry ride back to Geelong.

• Start your day with a visit to the Low Head Maritime Museum
• Drive to the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre and spend some time exploring
• Continue on to Tasmania Zoo and see some of the rare animals housed here
• Stop at Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm for some treats before heading to Devenport

Note your departure time for the Spirit and plan accordingly (the ship usually departs at 6:30pm or 7:30pm and check-in closes 45 minutes prior to departure).

Low Head Maritime Museum

Today, you’ll start at the Low Head Maritime Museum. This site is home to Australia’s oldest pilot station which is still in operation today, and sits right on the beautiful coast beside Lagoon beach.

Here you’ll find a museum which is a collection of convict built cottages known as Pilots Row. They have been combined to offer a charming museum of 13 rooms.

Entry is cheap (when we visited it was $5 for adults, $3 for kids) and each room has a different focus (like shipwrecks, whaling, telecommunication history etc). You can find some historic pieces of equipment. There’s a lot to read if you’re interested and kids will like just seeing the range of equipment.

There’s many other buildings on this site, but you can’t enter them. It’s a nice place to walk around.

Address: 399 Low Head Rd, Low Head TAS 7253

Beaconsfield Mine And Heritage Centre

Driving time to Beaconsfield: Approximately 35 minutes

Your next stop in the Tamar Valley is Beaconsfield. This old town is famous for its mining history and, in particular, an incident in 2006 when two of the miners here were stuck underground. This incident – and the history and significance of its mining – has resulted in this expansive and interesting heritage centre.

You enter through the shop where you can purchase tickets and then can walk into the heritage centre. The centre is very expansive and there’s a lot to see with plenty of steam machinery from all different decades of history, as well as other relics.

There’s plenty of coverage on the incident in 2006 which we enjoyed reading about. They cover the incident in day-by-day detail (they were trapped for 14 days in total) and there’s a tunnel which you can look through to get an idea of how this might have felt.

Outside, you can walk around the original mine and see the mine headframe as well as quite a bit of leftover equipment. We also enjoyed seeing the change rooms (for authenticity) and the native garden as well as the boiler house.

We highly recommend visiting this centre. There’s plenty of interactive activities too like animal hunts and gold panning to keep everyone interested!

Address: West St, Beaconsfield TAS 7270

Tasmania Zoo

Driving time from Beaconsfield: Approximately 30 minutes

If animals and wildlife interest you then you’ll want to pay a visit to Tasmania Zoo.

This isn’t a super well equipped zoo like those you find in major cities, but they do house over 100 species of animals with kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, snakes, a huge variety of birds, lions, tigers and more.

One of the interesting things to do here for kids is to walk through the Jurassic Swamp. This is a large garden with robotic dinosaurs, sound effects and information on dinosaurs (although be careful on warm days as they do say real snakes can be active).

There are also food machines where you can feed some of the more docile animals like wallabies, sheeps and goats, and they have a cafe open for lunch too.

Address: 1166 Ecclestone Rd, Riverside TAS 7250

Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm

Driving time from Tasmania Zoo: Approximately 35 minutes 

The last stop on your Tasmania itinerary before heading to Devonport is Christmas Hills Raspberry farm. This cafe/farm offers you some of that famous Tasmanian produce to sample before you leave and is also great for some last minute souvenirs.

Located on a gorgeous property with lakes to walk by and alpacas and wallabies to see, the cafe is open daily from 7am to 5pm (and only closed Christmas and Good Friday).

This is a raspberry farm and you can find raspberry dishes year round (however fresh raspberries are seasonal). If you’d like to, you can stop for a 3 course meal or purchase some goodies from the shop.

This is a perfect place to end your Tasmania trip and get some fresh treats for the ferry ride back to Geelong!

The cafe is open daily from 7am to 5pm (but the kitchen shuts at 4pm)

Address: 9 Christmas Hills Rd, Elizabeth Town TAS 7304

Tasmania Itinerary 4 Days – From Devonport

With one less day, I recommend removing day 3 from the above itinerary – basically don’t visit the Arthur River and the Edge of the World. Instead, on day 2, finish the day in Stanley and on day 3, visit The Nut and wander around town before heading to the Tamar Valley as per the itinerary above.

• Day 2 have some fun at Tasmazia, call in at Sheffield and then enjoy the beach at Boat Harbour. Drive on to Stanley for the night
• Day 3 climb The Nut and explore historic Stanley before driving on the Tamar Valley visiting either Seahorse World or Platypus House and watching the penguins come in at Low Head
• Day 4 see more of the Tamar Valley before driving back to the Spirit of Tasmania.

Read the above for all the details of this 4 day Tasmania itinerary.

5 Days In Tasmania Itinerary – From Hobart

In this Tasmania 5 days self drive itinerary, you’ll love exploring the best of east coast Tasmania and Hobart while learning about Tasmania’s convict past at Port Arthur. You’ll enjoy the variety in this trip!

This itinerary assumes starting and finishing in Hobart and that you have your own car or will hire one.

There are two great car hire options I can recommend that are both in Hobart and Launceston.

• Book through Bargain Car Rentals . This Tasmanian car rental company has some great deals and availability. Even better is if you use the code: TASEXPLORE you save 5%

Simply click here.

Then when you enter the dates and location, enter: TASEXPLORE for the “Discount Code”.

• Check out LeisureRent. They are also a Tasmanian rental company with a great range of cars, motorhomes and campervans. They also offer 5% off for Tasmania Explorer readers with the code: explore

Click here to see their latest prices and options.

You can also find other car hire options here .

• Days 1-2 discover Hobart
• Day 3 drive to Coles Bay with a stop at Maria Island on the way
• Day 4 walk to Wineglass Bay in the morning before driving on to Port Arthur in the afternoon. Consider a ghost tour at Port Arthur Historic Site
• Day 5 visit the Port Arthur Historic Site before driving back to Hobart

The highlights of this Tasmania 5 day self drive itinerary are:

• Taking your time to explore Hobart (from above and below)
• Venturing out of Hobart and visiting famous MONA and historic Richmond
• Exploring Maria Island and hiking the stunning Wineglass Bay
• Connecting with Tasmania’s convict history at Port Arthur
• Seeing some of Tasmania’s unique and beautiful geological formations

… and more!

The following map shows you the places you’ll visit in this 5 day itinerary.

Day 1: Arriving In Hobart

Today, you begin your journey by exploring Tasmania’s capital, Hobart!

As this is the first day you arrive, it’s important to get acquainted with the city. This is why we start at Mount Wellington to see everything from above and then take an easy stroll through the attractions below!

If you arrive later in the day, you may need to adjust the itinerary to suit your schedule.

• Arrive in Hobart at Hobart Airport and pick up your car
• Make your way to the top of Mount Wellington and understand the layout of the town
• Have lunch (we recommend somewhere in North Hobart) and then make your way to your hotel
• After checking in, head to Battery Point for a walk on the heritage trail
• Make your way to Salamanca, explore Hobart’s Waterfront and enjoy a dinner at either of these spots

Where To Stay In Hobart

• BEST – MACq 01 Hotel ( See latest prices here )
• MIDRANGE – Somerset On The Pier ( See latest prices here )
• BUDGET – Central Hotel Hobart ( See latest prices here )

Read our full guide to Hobart accommodation here.

Mt Wellington

People in Hobart know Mt Wellington simply as ‘the mountain’, and it’s clear why – it can be seen from all around town! Driving to the summit takes only 30 minutes and is a must do when you first visit Hobart.

The road is sealed, easy to drive on and takes you right to the summit of this 1,271 metre mountain. Along the way you’ll find multiple spots for stopping and checking out the view, as well as walking trails and a coffee van at the Springs.

At the summit, you’ll find an enclosed observation deck with a layout of the city to help you get orientated. The views from the top (in clear weather) really are stunning, and there are also observation decks outdoors.

It can be cold and windy here so most people don’t spend too long, but you could take a walk if the weather is right and you’re dressed appropriately.

Access to the mountain can be restricted at times due to bad weather (especially in winter), but it’s still worth seeing how far you can go. If this happens to you, taking a walk in nearby Fern Tree (like the short Silver Falls walk) is a good alternative to visiting the top of the mountain.

Battery Point

Battery Point stands out as one of the most pretty, historical and affluent suburbs in Hobart, and the best way to explore it is with a heritage walk which you can find here .

This compact suburb features sandstone buildings, cottages, parks, churches, cafes and restaurants and makes for a lovely way to spend an afternoon. The heritage trail will take you up Kelly’s Steps, through Arthur’s Circus and through the streets of this lovely suburb.

I recommend a visit to the charming Narryna Heritage Museum – an old town house with some relics like paintings and furniture from years past.

A stop at Hampden Road is a must for a smoothie or coffee, and then continue on to Princes Park to take a stroll and relax.

Salamanca Place and Hobart’s Waterfront

One of the main centres of Hobart’s bar and restaurant scene is Salamanca Place. This collection of sandstone warehouses is home to lively bars, restaurants, cafes, galleries and souvenir stores.

Salamanca Place changes depending on when you visit. During the day this area is pretty but unassuming. On Saturday’s it becomes a lively market, and by night the area is full of activity.

I recommend starting your visit at the fountain in the square and then taking your time to explore the buildings. You’ll find shops selling souvenirs Tasmania is known for like honey, woodwork and more. This is also a place to relax and there are many places to stop for a drink, with each venue offering its own atmosphere.

Hobart’s Waterfront is in front of Salamanca and this area has its own offerings to explore like the floating pontoon at Brooke Street Pier (which hosts a Twilight Market on Friday nights), the converted warehouses on Hunter Street, Mawsons Replica Hut (the Antartic Explorer), MAC01 and much more.

You’ll also find abundant seafood dining and this is obviously a great option for dinner. You can choose anything which interests you – from takeaway options on the wharf, to more fine dining venues back at Salamanca.

Day 2: Enjoying Hobart

On your second day in Hobart you’ll head outside the city centre exploring the famous art gallery of MONA and the historic town of Richmond.

• Have breakfast (we recommend Machine Cafe in Salamanca Place) then drive to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art)
• After MONA, continue driving on to Richmond
• Stop for lunch at a winery on the way (there are several near Cambridge/Richmond)
• Spend some time discovering the sites at Richmond before returning to Hobart
• Head to the Waterfront or Salamanca Place for dinner

Driving time from Hobart: Approximately 20 minutes

When it comes to museums/art galleries in Hobart, there is nothing quite like MONA. In fact, this museum stands out Australia wide for the unique and interesting artifacts and exhibits which draw visitors in everyday.

MONA is located just a 20 minute drive from Hobart and positioned by a winery. You need to pre-book your visit online , and you can also purchase a bus/cruise ticket at the same time (cruises leave from Brooke Street Pier). However I recommend driving so you can head straight to Richmond afterwards.

Outside of the museum is pretty but fairly low key with a trampoline which you can jump on and some interesting architecture as well as a big picnic and concert area, but inside and underground is a totally different story.

This museum is huge and fascinatingly impressive with lots to see. There are huge murals, paintings, rooms to walk through, restaurants and a bar.

Many exhibits change but some things are always on display. There appears to be a large focus on things people would rather not think about – death, the repulsiveness of the human body (think smelly poo machines and awkward photos) and lots of interesting, funny and creepy things at every turn.

Some of it really isn’t kid friendly but you can quickly walk past and see something else. There is also a map which can show you the places to avoid for families.

Outside, we found places to eat and another exhibit – House of Mirrors – which was a maze of mirrors. This was an extra $10 and very difficult to escape from, but loads of fun!

MONA simply can’t be missed when you’re in Hobart!

Driving time from MONA: Approximately 30 minutes

Richmond is just outside of Hobart and a pretty town in it’s own right. This small town has been drawing visitors (local, interstate and international) for many years and offers plenty of things for tourists to see and do.

One of the easiest ways to see the best of Richmond is simply to walk. Everything is close by in this pretty little town.

I recommend you park your car near Richmond Bridge (the oldest stone bridge in Australia) and cross the bridge and walk into the town from there.

You’ll pass cafes, restaurants, galleries and boutique shops. People are friendly and welcoming to tourists, and you can simply see what interests you.

If you’re visiting with kids check out the Pooseum (which is exactly what it sounds like – a museum of animal poo!).

Two must see spots are the Richmond Gaol and Old Hobart Town Model Village.

Richmond Gaol

Tasmanian’s embrace their convict past perhaps a bit more than other states, and one of the top attractions in Richmond is the Richmond Gaol.

Richmond Gaol shows just how different conditions were just 200 years ago and offers you an authentic experience with a self guided tour through the complex. This is one of the places in Tasmania to understand the history of Tasmanian convicts.

As Australia’s oldest intact convict gaol, the gaol is impressively presented. It is a relatively small complex, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in authenticity. Here you’ll see the holding cells (in almost authentic condition), solitary confinement cells, an old kitchen, flogging yard and information boards (and sound effects) to add to your visit.

When we visited the cost was $10 for adults, $5 for children and just $25 for a family. We thought this was good value and the gaol can be explored in around an hour.

Click here to read my full review.

Old Hobart Town Model Village

Richmond is a town which embraces history and this is clear from the nostalgic Old Hobart Town Model Village.

This impressive and large model village, which took the builders several years to construct, is a representation of how Hobart looked 200 years ago in the 1820’s.

Not only is this an interesting model to walk around, but information boards let you understand how life was here just 200 years ago. You’ll notice how much the town has changed since then, but there are a couple buildings/sites which still exist.

This impressive model includes bonsai trees of native myrtle and amusing figurines in interesting situations, and they offer a game for kids to play to keep them interested.

Day 3: Discover Maria Island

Total driving time: 2 hours and 35 minutes 

Today you’ll leave Hobart and explore the extraordinary Maria Island before making your way to Coles Bay.

• Stop somewhere for breakfast and then make your way to Triabunna (this is where the ferry leaves for Maria Island)
• Spend some time exploring Maria Island, the buildings and consider taking a walk
• Head back to Orford for lunch
• Continue driving to Coles Bay where you’ll spend the night (approx driving time 1 hour and 25 minutes)

Where To Stay At Coles Bay

• BEST – Freycinet Lodge ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Swansea Backpacker Lodge ( Click here for more details )

Maria Island

Driving time to Triabunna from Hobart: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Maria Island is one of two major islands that people explore in Tasmania (the other being Bruny Island).

However the major difference with Maria Island is that, unlike Bruny Island, Maria Island has no permanent inhabitants, no cars are allowed on the island, and of course it has its own unique history and sites. This makes it a fantastic place to explore.

Maria Island is connected to the Tasmanian mainland via a ferry. The ferry leaves from the wharf at Triabunna (you can read about the ferry here ) and takes only 30 minutes. I recommend purchasing tickets before visiting (this can be done here ).

The ferry arrives at Darlington, the only settlement here with an old penitentiary and a few historic buildings. It’s a fascinating place to explore with a very isolated feeling.

This island is a huge drawcard for nature lovers, and it’s abundant with wildlife like wombats, wallabies and Tasmanian devils (sent here to protect them from the facial tumour).

Getting around is easy by walking. The Reservoir Circuit is a short easy walk, or you can do something longer like visiting the Fossil Cliffs (read about this here or for a full list of walk click here ). You can also hire a bike and explore the island at your own leisure.

A couple of hours is a good amount of time for exploring the island. My only real advice is to come prepared. There are no shops so you need to bring water and food with you.

Day 4: Hiking at Wineglass Bay

Total driving time: 2 hours and 50 minutes 

One of the other most visited nature sites in all of Tasmania is Wineglass Bay, and today you’ll understand why. You’ll start the morning with a gentle hike to the lookout at Freycinet National Park over the stunning Wineglass Bay, and then make your way to Port Arthur after lunch.

This day is not to be missed!

• Start the morning at Freycinet National Park and hike to the lookout over Wineglass Bay
• Head to Freycinet Marine Farm for a delicious seafood lunch
• Leave Coles Bay heading for Port Arthur and then consider taking a ghost tour at night

Where To Stay At Port Arthur

• BEST – Port Arthur Villas ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – NRMA Port Arthur ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Fox and Hounds Inn ( Click here for more details )

Want more options? Find our full Port Arthur accommodation guide here .

Wineglass Bay

Iconic Wineglass Bay located in Freycinet National Park is a postcard perfect destination. This site is featured in many travel blogs/sites/magazines, is ranked as one of the top beaches in the world and is one of the most visited spots in all of Tasmania.

Today, you’ll get to see it for yourself!

You have a few options when you arrive at Freycinet National Park. Parking at the car park, you’ll find a couple of options for your walk. You can opt to do the Hazards Beach Circuit (a more challenging 5 hour return hike which takes you through the beach and around the park) or just hike to the lookout up a 1.3 kilometre trail.

Most people simply go to the lookout. This is steep but you can take it as easy as you like (it takes most people around an hour return). There are spots to stop and things to read along the way, and at the top you are rewarded with a breathtakingly stunning view of the beach below.

You can also then decide if you’d like to make your way down to the beach. However this is another steep walk and takes about an hour return.

There are other walks you can do in Freycinet National Park like Sleepy Bay which is only 10 minutes return and takes you down some easy steps to the shoreline.

Spend as long as you like exploring this stunning area and work up an appetite for lunch!

Freycinet Marine Farm

Tasmania is a seafood lovers paradise and for some of the best seafood on offer, we recommend a lunch at Freycinet Marine Farm.

This is the place to sample some of the freshest mussels and oysters you’ll find as these are caught daily from their farm. We found these incredibly delicious! The farm even offers tours where you can catch and shuck your own oysters straight from the sea.

There are a few different buildings here and they offer sit down and takeaway options as well as other seafood which is sourced locally. I recommend sitting down for lunch and washing your meal down with a glass of Tasmanian wine.

There were plenty of places to sit when we visited, prices were not exorbitant and the kids were quite happy with their fish and chips (big praise!).

Address: 1784 Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay TAS 7215

Day 5: Exploring Port Arthur And Eaglehawk Neck

Total driving time: 1 hour and 20 minutes 

Your final day in Tasmania will be spent exploring the Port Arthur Historic Site, seeing some of the geological wonders at Eaglehawk Neck and then making your way back to Hobart Airport for your flight.

• Explore the Port Arthur Historic Site with a walking tour then take a cruise on the waterfront (included in the entry price)
• Continue on the Eaglehawk Neck and see the funny names at Doo Town
• Stop at the Blow Hole and then walk on the Tessellated Pavement
• Head to Hobart Airport for your flight departing Hobart! (approx 55 minute drive to Hobart Airport from Eaglehawk Neck)

Port Arthur Historic Site

As previously stated Tasmanian’s embrace their convict history and in all of Tasmania there’s no better place to connect with this history than Port Arthur Historic Site.

This UNESCO listed site is famous for being one of the most brutal gaols in the colony. Now, however, this is a huge expansive museum with many buildings intact, some in ruins and some undergoing restoration.

You enter Port Arthur Historic Site via the visitors centre and your entry price includes a walking tour and harbour cruise. I highly recommend you pre-book so that you can select your preferred times for these.

Walking tours take 40 minutes. A large group then follows an interesting guide who takes you around the site and explains some of the history. Our tour didn’t enter into any buildings but after the tour we were free to explore. There’s a lot to see with the old gaol and holding cells, gardens and orchards, old houses, historical relics and much more.

After you’ve explored the site you can take your included cruise from the waterfront. This is a 25 minute guided harbour cruise which sails past Isle of the Dead (Port Arthur’s burial spot). You can visit this island for an extra fee if this interests you.

Finish your visit with a stop at the restaurant and gift shop.

By night, the scene changes and Port Arthur Historic Site hosts the extremely popular Port Arthur Ghost Tour. There’s been a lot of reported paranormal events over the years, and as this was the site of much misery and brutality, some of these stories are chilling to hear.

These entertaining tours guide you through the site at night over a 90 minute period and cover some of these paranormal events that have occurred over the years. Expect to see some activity and to judge for yourself!

Read our full guide to Port Arthur here.

Driving time to Eaglehawk Neck from Port Arthur: Approximately 15 minutes

For a bit of lighthearted entertainment after visiting Port Arthur, stop at Doo Town in Eaglehawk Neck.

Why is it named “Doo Town”? Because the majority of the buildings here are named in some way using the word Doo! Most of the residents are in on the fun, and you’ll find some funny places like the appropriately named Doo-Lishus cafe.

Not only is the town positioned in a pretty spot near the water, but a drive through is entertaining with all the funny names. It seems to get funnier the more names you see 🙂

Address: 301 C338, Eaglehawk Neck, TAS 7179

Read our full guide to Doo Town here.

Blow Hole And Tessellated Pavement

Exploring more of Eaglehawk Neck, you’ll find the Blow Hole. This is just one of the couple of unique sites here where water spouts through an eroded cave to create a blow hole effect.

The blow hole is only a short 5 minute walk from the carpark and you can plan to spend around 15 minutes here. While the effect is only present at times of high tide, the view from above is very pretty and worth a visit any time of day.

Your final spot to visit in Eaglehawk Neck is the Tessellated Pavement – one of the most photographed spots in Tasmania!

You would be forgiven for thinking the tessellated pavement is manmade. The tiled rocks seem almost too perfect to be a natural phenomenon. You’ll find an information board above where this interesting geological process is explained.

You can walk right over the pavement and see tiny rock pools and interesting marine life, as well as continue walking to the beach in the distance. I recommend warm clothes and appropriate walking footwear.

This is the perfect way to end your Tasmania trip before heading off.

4 Days In Tasmania Itinerary – From Hobart

With one less day, I recommend removing Port Arthur so you’ll finish your itinerary after hiking to Wineglass Bay and return to Hobart then.

• Day 4 walk to Wineglass Bay in the morning before driving back to Hobart to finish your Tasmania itinerary 4 days

Read the above for all the details of this 4 day itinerary Tasmania.

Tasmania 5 Day Tour – From Hobart Without A Car

This five day itinerary is all about getting a great taste of southern Tasmania without needing your own wheels. It focuses on Hobart, Port Arthur and Bruny Island – all places you’ll love exploring!

• Day 3 take a bus to historic Richmond and explore
• Day 4 visit Bruny Island on a day tour
• Day 5 visit the Port Arthur Historic Site on a day tour

The highlights of this Tasmania 5 day itinerary are:

• Exploring the best parts of Hobart and seeing it from the top of Mount Wellington
• Wandering through the historic nearby town of Richmond
• Enjoying both the rugged and refined parts of Bruny Island
• Stepping back in time with a visit to Port Arthur Historic Site

The following map shows you where you’ll visit in this 5 day itinerary.

Today, you’ll begin your journey by exploring Tasmania’s capital, Hobart!

Without a car, one of the best ways to see the attractions around town is with a Red Decker City Loop Tour. This double decker bus takes you to the top attractions around town in 90 minutes.

This is a hop-on hop-off bus where you get 24-48 hours (depending on your ticket) of access. You can read about the stops to plan your visit and make a booking here .

Mount Wellington can be visited with the kunanyi / Mt Wellington Explorer Bus . This return trip takes 2 hours and you’ll get to spend 30 minutes at the summit. The benefit of this bus tour is that they have access to the summit even in times of bad weather.

Both tours start at the Travel Centre (corner of Davey and Elizabeth Street).

If you’re going to purchase a Red Decker bus tour, you can save money by purchasing a combined ticket with the explorer bus here .

I recommend you plan your own visit based on the attractions that interest you, but a simple itinerary is below.

• Take the SkyBus from Hobart Airport into the city
• Leave your bags at your hotel and then head to Point A and take the kunanyi / Mt Wellington Explorer Bus to Mount Wellington
• Return to Point A and start your City Loop Tour, stopping somewhere for lunch
• Return to your hotel and have dinner somewhere in North Hobart

Day 2: Enjoying More Of Hobart

Today you’ll make your way to MONA! I highly recommend you take the ferry to MONA.

This departs from Brooke Street Pier and only takes 25 minutes. You can purchase a drink or bite to eat on board, and it’s a comfortable and scenic way of getting to MONA.

You need to book in advance to visit MONA. You can do this and purchase ferry tickets here .

• Have breakfast near Hobart’s Waterfront and then head to Brooke Street Pier
• Take the ferry to MONA and spend some time exploring the Museum
• Have lunch and then head to Battery Point for a heritage walk
• Explore Salamanca and Hobart’s waterfront and pick somewhere for dinner

You can read more about these attractions in the itinerary above this one.

Read our full guide to Hobart here.

Day 3: Exploring Richmond

On day 3 you’ll explore Richmond!

Again, you’ll want to do this as part of a bus tour. A good half day tour is here which gives you nearly 3 hours to explore the attractions at your leisure.

These tours leave from the Travel Centre with some hotel pick ups available. You can make a booking here .

You can read about the attractions in Richmond in the itinerary above this one.

• Start the morning with breakfast in Battery Point
• Head to the Travel Centre (or get a hotel pick up) and take the bus to Richmond
• Explore the attractions in Richmond

Day 4: Bruny Island

Today you’ll explore the scenic and interesting Bruny Island with a day tour!

• Wake up early and head to the starting point for your tour (you can read about the best tours here )

Bruny Island

Bruny Island is a fantastic place to spend the day exploring. This island sits just off the south east coast and offers plenty from everyone, with abundant wildlife, nature walks, local produce, beaches and a small settlement.

Some of the most iconic spots of this island are the Neck (a narrow strip which separates the North and South of the island), South Bruny National Park for its bush walks and beaches and the historic Cape Bruny Lighthouse.

You’ll also find many places selling some of the best Tasmanian produce like oysters, cheese, honey and chocolate and wine.

There are many day tours you can do, so you can find one that takes you to the places that interest you.

You can read about the best day tours to Bruny Island by clicking here or read our full guide to Bruny Island here .

Day 5: Port Arthur Historic Site

On the last day of your trip to Tasmania, you’ll take a day tour to the Port Arthur Historic Site. You can find a day tour here .

Be mindful that these tours can take anywhere from 8-12 hours so keep in mind the time of your flight before booking one. You may be able to organise airport dropoff, as Hobart Airport is closer to Port Arthur than Hobart, but you’ll need to discuss this with the tour company directly.

You can read about this site in the itinerary above.

Tasmania 4 Days Itinerary – From Hobart Without A Car

With one less day, I recommend removing either the Richmond, Bruny Island or Port Arthur day trip. Whichever sounds the least interesting to you.

Tasmania 3 Day Itinerary

If you’ve only got 3 days in Tasmania you can make some modifications to the itineraries above.

If you’re planning a Tasmania itinerary 3 days from Devonport, remove the final day exploring the Tamar Valley.

For a 3 day Tasmania itinerary from Hobart with a car, you may want to remove the visit to Wineglass Bay (as this is quite far) and replace this with Port Arthur or Bruny Island.

Planning a 3 days in Tasmania itinerary without a car may be more difficult. If you want to get out of Hobart, you may need to make some tough decisions.

I recommend that you include a Red Decker City Loop in your 3 day trip to Tasmania to see the best attractions in the city, as well as the kunanyi / Mt Wellington Explorer Bus.

You then need to decide if you want to see Richmond, Bruny Island or Port Arthur. If more than one of these interests you, maybe consider removing the trip to MONA.

Tasmania Weekend Trip

If you just need a weekend in Tasmania itinerary, I recommend you fly into Hobart and spend your time doing your favourite choice of activities from the itineraries above which don’t require a car. If you haven’t been to Hobart before, focus on that.

Final Words

Tasmania offers so much to see that no matter how long you visit you’ll be left wanting more. Just try to fit in what you can.

The laid back nature of the state makes it easy to visit, and there will still be plenty of exciting and beautiful attractions waiting for when you return!

We hope you enjoy these suggestions for what to do in Tasmania for 4 or 5 days so that you can have your perfect trip. You can find more information to plan your perfect trip to Tasmania here  or read our 7 day itinerary here , 10 day here or 14 day here . For more planning guides,  click here . You can also buy our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here.

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By Shan Hutchinson

Shan grew up in Tasmania, moved away and then came back with her family twenty years later. She loves re-discovering her home state and sharing it with you here.

A 5 Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary (For Outdoor Enthusiasts)

Located off the mainland of Australia to the south of Victoria is the fascinating island state of Tasmania . Tassie is famed for the cleanest air in the world, exclusive native wildlife and over 40% of land protected as national parks or reserves. And that’s to name just a few things!

A road trip is undoubtedly the best way to see Tasmania, and a 5 day Tasmania road trip is the perfect way to get an introduction into the different elements of this incredible state.

Surprisingly, Tasmania is often overlooked by people when planning a holiday Down Under. But for nature lovers, Tassie may well be the best place in Australia for a road trip  whether that’s in a car with overnight stops or a campervan.

Whether you’re after cities filled with delicious eateries and world class art, or would rather hike incredible mountains in the wilderness or relax on the best-looking beaches in Australia, Tasmania truly has something for everyone. 

This 5 day road trip itinerary for outdoor enthusiasts will take you on a small lap around central and eastern Tasmania, with a particular focus on the state’s natural wonders.

But before you head off, just make sure you read these 8 things to know before you go to help prepare you for your trip!

How to get to Tasmania:

To do a road trip in Tasmania, you have two options to access the state from mainland Australia:

1. Fly and hire a car

Flights from Melbourne to Hobart can often be found for as little as $50 per person for a return with Jetstar. The flight time is only about 1 hour and 15 minutes so it’s a great option to make the most of your short visit. Most major airports in Australia also fly to Tasmania. Compare flight prices on SkyScanner  for the cheapest rates.

Once you arrive, you can easily hire a car from the airport to do your road trip. Renting a car to travel around the state is common, so there are many car hire companies with competitive rates to choose from. Compare car rentals here .

2. Bring you Vehicle on the Spirit of Tasmania Ferry

The Spirit of Tasmania is either a day or overnight ferry from Port Melbourne to Devonport, taking just over 8 hours. If you only have 5 full days to do a road trip, I would recommend taking the overnight ferry the night before.

Be warned that the ferry is a painfully slow and often expensive journey though. You have to pay for a bed or private cabin as well as your ticket (unless you’re happy with a semi-reclined chair for free).

Every time I have looked at tickets they’ve been $500-$1,000AUD return for one person to take my small Econovan camper – and that’s with the free chair option.

Though the benefit of the ferry to Tasmania is that you have your own vehicle with you so do not have the expense and inconvenience of hiring one. If you have a campervan, it may be worthwhile paying for the ferry in order to save money on accommodation.

Either way, it’s best to do some research and some quick maths to work out ultimately which option is cheapest and most convenient for you.

How to spend a 5 day Tasmania road trip:

5 days is probably the bare minimum amount of time you’ll need to get a good insight into Tasmania. Having travelled there a few times alone and also staying with my partner’s family who lived there, here is my suggested 5 day itinerary for my favourite Australian state.

Day 1: Hobart to Mount Field National Park

Start off your 5 day Tassie road trip adventure with a touch of culture in the capital, Hobart. The lively harbour city brims with character from its beautiful heritage architecture and a thriving art and culture scene.

Hobart has some exciting things to offer visitors such as the thought-provoking MONA art museum. Accessed by a quirky ferry, this millionaires playground has some of the most outrageous and interesting art I’ve ever seen, sure to shock and intrigue you! 

If the museum doesn’t sound like your thing and you want to hit the outdoors right away, then instead drive up Mount Wellington to see stunning views across the whole city. 

There’s also Hobart’s famous Saturday markets such as Salamanca. Spend the morning browsing and getting your hands on some locally produced goods.

When you’re ready, head west to the first destination, Mount Field National Park!

The drive to Mount Field is just over 1 hour, where you can find all sorts of hikes and waterfalls, along with campgrounds to stay the night if you have a van or tent.

This National Park is the first of many to be seen over the course of the next few days, so I recommended purchasing a park pass here to gain access to all the National parks in Tasmania. This is something you’ll need to keep visible in the front of your car, and you’ll be set for the rest of the trip!

Spend the afternoon walking the 6km Three Falls Circuit to see some stunning waterfalls. It will take about 2-3 hours to complete. Keep an eye out for Swamp Gums, the world’s tallest flowering plant – just one of the many cool flora and fauna in Tassie! 

After the walk, continue driving and stay somewhere enroute to Cradle Mountain such as Mole Creek where I found a lovely B&B.

Where to stay – Mole Creek

This is an adorable heritage stone cabin with modern interior. Located on a secluded private working farm surrounded by manicured gardens and rolling hills, this accommodation is ideal for a couple.  View property

Day 2: Cradle Mountain to Launceston

One of the most popular ‘must-see’ destinations in Tasmania is the iconic Cradle Mountain, and for a good reason. Cradle Mountain is what sets Tasmania apart from the rest of Australia. 

Jagged prehistoric-like peaks protrude from ancient rainforest which reflect dramatically in the midnight blue of Dove Lake. It is clear why this area of outstanding natural beauty is the most popular outdoor attraction in Tasmania.

Depending on where you stayed the previous night, you should be about a 1-2 hours drive from Cradle Mountain. Plan to arrive here in the early morning. It can get quite busy with mini buses of tourists, so the earlier the better.

There are a variety of walks to choose from, but the Dove Lake Circuit is one of the most popular as it is the easiest. This is a 6km looped walk at the base of Cradle Mountain offering spectacular views, and should take about 2-3 hours to complete. 

Alternatively, if you’re up for getting the heart racing a little more, you can head up to the right of the lake to Marion’s Lookout. This walk offers probably one of the best views of Cradle Mountain and the lake. This short but steep out-and-back 3km walk will take roughly 2 hours to complete.

After spending the morning in the Lake St Clair National Park, it’s time to hit the road and head to Launceston, the second biggest city in Tasmania. 

Charming Launceston lies in the heart of a wine growing region and is surrounded by rows of vines and lavender fields. 

The drive here from Cradle Mountain is around 2.5 hours, and will be the next stop for the night.

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One of the highlights of Launceston is the Cataract Gorge, home to the longest single span chairlift in the world! It’s hard to believe the gorge is just 2 minutes from the centre of the city considering the abundant wildlife (such as the famous peacocks!).

If you want to splash out somewhere nice for dinner in Launceston, I would highly recommend a visit to the waterfront fine dining restaurant of Stillwater with its menu embodying the best of fresh Tasmanian produce.

Where to stay – Launceston 

You won’t struggle to find great options in Launnie. For one of the top rated hotels in the city, try Peppers Silo . For a reasonably priced modern hotel, try The Cornwall . If you’re on a budget, I’ve also stayed at  Art Hostel and had a great time (and surprisingly a good sleep!).

Day 3: Launceston to Bay of Fires

This is the day where things start to change, where the winding roads through the hills aren’t so windy anymore and the mountainous views turn to stunning sandy beaches. 

Start off the morning grabbing a coffee and breakfast from one of Launceston’s quaint cafes before making your way to today’s destination, which will be the Bay of Fires. 

The drive from Launceston to the Bay of Fires is about 2.5 hours long, but there’s some great places worth stopping along the way! 

The first stop is Bridestowe Lavender Estate, the world’s largest privately owned lavender farm. The farm only blooms in summertime, but it’s still a nice place to visit year round. There’s a gift shop and cafe full of all things lavender, along with a distillery onsite. Whether the fields are awash in purple or not, it’s still an iconic spot to visit on your Tasmanian road trip.

The next stop after the lavender is Little Blue Lake near South Mount Cameron. This is only a quick stop, as there’s not much to see other than the crazy milk-turquoise color of this old mining hole.

From here there’s only 1 hour of driving to reach the Bay of Fires.

The Bay of Fires is a stretch of incredibly white sandy beaches accompanied by a clear blue ocean. The rocks here are covered in orange lichen. People often think this is how the Bay of Fires got its name. In fact, it was because the bay glowed orange from all the fires lit by the First Nations People when the colonists sailed past on ships.

On this 5 day Tasmania road trip there’s only enough time to get a quick taste of everything, and the absolute best time to take in the beauty of these beaches is at sunrise and sunset.

I highly recommend camping for the night at the Bay of Fires if you can, however there are plenty of accommodations nearby in Bicheno as well. 

Where to stay – Bicheno or Bay of Fires

There are plenty of stunning beaches to choose from when camping at the Bay of Fires , and they’re all completely free! Make sure to get there early enough to claim a spot. They have traditional drop toilets and often fire pits.

If camping isn’t for you and you would prefer a little more comfort then check out the reasonably priced Beachfront Bicheno with a private patio to enjoy seafront or pool views. 

Day 4: Bay of Fires/Bicheno to Freycinet

Perhaps after an inspiring sunrise on the beach to start the day, it’s time to drive down to the famous Freycinet National Park. This will be the 3rd (and final) national park visited on your 5 day Tasmania road trip!

Freycinet is another iconic destination in Tasmania, where many people go to see the stunning birds eye views from Wineglass Bay Lookout. This walk is 3km and takes around 1.5 hours.

If you love a good beach, make sure you continue to head down to Hazards Beach to make the walk a bit longer to experience its dusty white squeaky sand, clear water and gorgeous little sheltered lagoons.

Before you leave make sure you head to Freycinet Marine Farm for some of the best oysters in the world! Tasmania is known for its seafood, and these fresh local oysters just around the corner will not disappoint. However keep in mind the oyster farm does close at 5pm, so make sure to get there in time! 

The next stop on the 5 day Tasmania road trip will be heading south, so anywhere along the coast this way will be a convenient place to stay. I recommend looking at the town of Swansea.

Where to stay – Swansea

This motel was a good budget friendly accommodation right on the water. Perfect for a short, comfortable stay with a great sunset (or sunrise) admired from the balcony.   View property

Day 5: Maria Island to Hobart

At this point I am sure it will feel like the days have gone by all too fast. It is the last full day of the road trip and also time to explore one of Tasmania’s islands! 

The destination for the day is Maria Island, which can be accessed by booking a ferry from Triabunna. Triabunna is about a 1.5 hours drive from Freycinet, and about 40 minutes drive from Swansea.

Before heading to the ferry, stop at Kate’s Berry Farm for some of the most delicious jams in all Australia! There are several to taste and try, as well as a full cafe menu to sit down and have a nice brekky. The farm is in a beautiful location and will be the perfect way to start today’s adventures just right.

The ferry to Maria Island takes about 45 minutes. When you arrive you’ll find yourself in one of the more remote, untouched parts of this state. With no cars, shops (or in fact predators), it’s a true wildlife haven. So much so, it’s often referred to as Tasmania’s Noah’s Ark! 

That being said, Maria island is one of the best places to observe wombats, kangaroos, wallabies and the Tasmanian Devil. When it comes to birdlife there are over 150 species here alone!

The most enjoyable way to explore the rural island is by renting or bringing your own bike.

After your active day of sightseeing around Maria Island, it’s just over an hour drive from Triabunna to Hobart, bringing everything full circle to end your trip! 

Where to stay – Hobart

It’s your last night of your road trip, so why not make the most of it and splash out for Islington Hotel . If funds are a bit low, stay in a beautifully renovated 19th Century mansion at Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse .

This 5 day Tasmania road trip is designed for those who want to make the most of their time in this beautiful Australian state. It is packed with all the highlights, from incredible views and delicious foods, to beautiful nature walks. 

Tasmania’s truly unlike any other state in Australia. It’s beauty will leave you in absolute awe, feeling relaxed and recharged, and inspired for an even longer road trip next time!

Heading to Australia soon? Don’t forget these essentials!

Flights : compare and search using Skyscanner

Accommodation : hotels to hostels, glamping to apartments I always use Booking.com

Tours: to search and compare the best group tours and activities worldwide (with up to 20% off), use Viator

Visa : don’t forget to  check the entry requirements for Australia on the government website for the passport you are travelling with

Inspiration : Lonely Planet’s guide to Australia or for your next trip, how about Lonely Planet’s Guide to the World ?

PIN ME FOR LATER:

*This post may contain affiliate links meaning should you purchase a product via this link, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These are still products I use or believe in regardless. See my privacy and disclosure policy for more.*

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14 thoughts on “A 5 Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary (For Outdoor Enthusiasts)”

What an incredible road trip! Mountains, waterfalls, beaches…it’s got a bit of everything! It definitely sounds like my kind of trip! Thanks for the awesome guide!

It sure does! And not forgetting wineries, lavender fields, forests and more haha! Thanks for your comment!

Tasmania has just about everything. It’s been on my bucket list for ages and I can’t wait until this part of the world opens up for tourism. I’ll definitely come back to your guide before my visit 🙂

Yay thanks Kitti! I am so excited for you and I hope you don’t have to wait for too much longer!

This looks like a fantastic area to go on a road trip! I love the different landscapes that you come across – thanks for the helpful tips!

It really is! There’s so much variety, it is not boring at all!

When we planned our long trip to Australia for 2020, we did not even have Tasmania on our plans. When we finally get to re-book this trip, I can see we may need to carve out time for a road trip in Tasmania and to see the great National Parks there. Starting with a view of the stunning Mount Field waterfalls would certainly spur the excitment. We would love the drive thru winding roads but would not want to miss the sandy beaches. Sure hope we get this back on the planning board soon.

I’d absolutely recommend to! And for as long as you can manage too. It’s my favourite places in Australia and does not disappoint on a road trip if you love nature and the outdoors!

What an amazing itinerary. You had me sold with the first picture, and it got better with all the mountain views, waterfall etc… I’m not familiar with Tasmania, so it was great discovering the island with you. Thanks for sharing.

I know – it’s one of those places where you just cant believe the scenery is real! That’s why a road trip is just so special 🙂

I have been wanting to visit Tasmania for quite some time but wasn’t sure where to go and what to see. Your itinerary makes it easy. The map makes the route very clear.

Thanks Rhonda! Spend as much time in Tassie as you can. It’s amazing!

I can’t believe so much of Tasmania is National Parks and reserves, that’s amazing! Those outdoor views are just stunning, what a great place to spend a few day, a road trip seems like a great way to see a lot more of it, although I prefer your idea of flying and renting a car rather than taking the expensive ferry. Maria Island is one place I’d love to go – to have the chance to see that much unique wildlife would be incredible

I know! If only more places were like Tasmania in terms of their conservation efforts. You really notice the positive effects such as the clean air and abundant flora and fauna! It’s such a magical place. I’m still keeping and eye out for cheap ferry tickets though to bring my van over next time.. surely one day!!

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Tasmania Itinerary (5 Days) – Good things come in small packages!

Thinking about a quick and relaxing self-drive Tasmania itinerary? 5 days is the perfect amount of time to see some of Tasmania’s best natural landscapes, taste its gourmet food, and immerse yourself in its rich colonial and convict history .

My handmade easy-to-follow 5 day itineraries take you to all the best activities, show you where to find the tastiest bites, and where to stay for the perfect night’s sleep!

This page contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). Read our full disclosure policy  here .

Tasmania Itinerary (5 Days) – The perfect road trip!

A 5 day Tasmania road trip is fast becoming one of the most popular ways of seeing this incredible island that I call home.

There are so many beautiful and varied landscapes to be experienced, and all are within easy driving distance of either Hobart in the south, or Devonport and Launceston in the north.

From the rugged ranges and surging seas of the West Coast , to the postcard perfect beaches and gourmet wines of the sunny East Coast , to the rolling hills and rich colonial history to be found through central Tasmania… there is something for everyone and it is so easy to plan your road trip!

I’ve lived in Tasmania for 20 years now, and together with my wife we’ve explored nearly every highway, byway and dirt road you can find in Tassie. So you can be reassured I’ve got plenty of practical local knowledge to help you make the most of your limited time, and to avoid getting caught out by some of the quirks of Tasmania.

There are plenty of options for exploring Tasmania by road (you’ll find my recommendations on car hire at the bottom of this guide), but there is no need to feel overwhelmed, because if you want to see the very best of Tasmania then it all comes down to three simple itineraries:

• East Coast Explorer – Sun, beaches, history, wines, seafood
• West Coast Wanderer – Rainforests, alpine landscapes, river cruises, gourmet food
• Colonial Rambler – History, wildlife, delicious food and wine, whisky

I’ve designed each of these itineraries to start in Hobart and finish in either Launceston or Devonport, because this stops you from wasting any time backtracking – perfect for when you only have 5 days in Tasmania!

You could just as easily flip each of these itineraries on their head though as well. So if you arrive in Devonport on the ferry or fly into Launceston, you could follow each 5-day Tasmania itinerary in reverse on your way down to Hobart. Easy!

✏️ Create and print your own customised itinerary

I know that many travellers prefer to have a paper copy of their itinerary, so they can make notes and jot down ideas – and that is exactly why I created an eBook version of these three 5-day itineraries!

Maybe you are starting/finishing your Tasmania road trip in the same location?

Good news! I’ve got a handful of 5-day loop itineraries at the bottom of this article departing from either Hobart or Launceston/Devonport, and I plan on creating a creating a similar detailed guide to this one in the near future – just like my 7-Day ‘Whirlwind’ , 10-Day ‘Essentials’ , and 14-Day ‘Ultimate’ itineraries – so watch this space!

Before I take you through each of the itineraries, there are a few things to keep in mind that will help with the planning process:

• You will see that I recommend what I feel is the best way of spending your time in the morning and afternoon. You might like my recommendations, but you might also have other preferences, and that’s why you will see some activities labelled as ‘Alternative’. Just swap these in and you’re good to go!
• With that in mind, please don’t try and do all the activities I list, because there are simply too many to fit into a day – pick and choose the ones that appeal to you.
• The ‘Driving Times’ that I provide for each day assume no stopping at all for photos, meals or anything else. They also assume no roadworks and that traffic generally sticks to the speed limit and drives to the conditions. Regardless, I’ve designed every single day in each itinerary to ensure you aren’t racing around trying to fit things in – they are all very relaxed and allow heaps of time to get from ‘A’ to ‘B’.
• You will notice that some accommodation recommendations are for ‘partners’ of the Lap of Tasmania . I am very particular about who I partner with, because I only want to recommend the very best options to Lappers. Not only are they the best in Tasmania, but each are providing Lappers with an exclusive offer, including discounts, upgrades and other perks!

If you have any questions at all meantime please don’t hesitate to ask myself and our friendly community of Lappers over on Facebook here .

🌿 Parks Pass Information If you would like to visit one or more of Tasmania’s National Parks then you must have a Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service ‘ Parks Pass ’. To get your Parks Pass, the easiest options are to either buy it online via the P&WS website here , or to buy one on the Spirit of Tasmania ferry. Alternatively, you can buy a Parks Pass at Service Tasmania Shops, Travel Information Centres, or on arrival at some of the large National Parks (eg. Cradle Mountain and Mt Field). Prices vary depending on the type of pass you purchase – check here . Day passes are available, but the best value option is the 8-week ‘Holiday Pass’ for $90 per vehicle (covering up to 8 people) that covers you for every single NP in Tasmania (including Cradle Mountain). Conveniently, when buying your Parks Pass you can nominate the starting date for the pass.

1. East Coast Explorer

Highlights : Richmond Bridge | Port Arthur Historic Site | Award-winning Wines | Freycinet and Wineglass Bay | Fresh Seafood | Bay of Fires | Lavender Fields

Shhhh… don’t tell anyone, but the sandy beaches and sparkling waters of Tasmania East Coast would have to be some of Australia’s best – but without the crowds!

It’s always a couple of degrees warmer on the East Coast, producing ideal conditions for delicious wines, the freshest berries and general lazing about on your own stretch of sand or a quick dip in its bracing waters.

It certainly is beautiful, but dig a little deeper and you will also unearth fascinating stories of our indigenous and colonial history. A visit to stunning Port Arthur is an essential experience – stepping back in time and opening your eyes to a painful, yet formative chapter in Tasmania’s rich history.

Day 1 – Hobart to Port Arthur (via Richmond Village)

110km | 1hr 45mins driving | All sealed roads

Morning Activities

• Taste gourmet cheese and chocolates at Coal River Farm
• Explore historic Richmond Village by foot – Richmond Bridge, Richmond Gaol, Richmond Tasting House, Amaze, and plenty more
• Vanilla slice or scallop pie from Richmond Bakery
• (Alternative) Wine tastings at Frogmore Creek, Pooley, Puddleduck and other wineries
• (Alternative) Wicked Cheese tastings
• Czegs Cafe (Richmond) – OR – Larder & Vin (Richmond)

Afternoon Activities

• Bream Creek Market (1st Sunday of every month – 9am to 1pm)
• Pirate’s Bay Lookout
• Eaglehawk Neck / Tessellated Pavement / Devil’s Kitchen / Tasman Arch
• Remarkable Cave
• Port Arthur Ghost Tour

Where to Stay

• Families – Ruby’s Cottage Farm Stay
• Money Saver – Port Arthur Villas
• Quirky – Glamping at NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park
• Hosted B&B – Storm Bay B&B – Special Offer for Lappers!
• Luxe Treat – Stewarts Bay Lodge

Day 2 – Port Arthur to Freycinet NP

235km | 3hr 15mins driving | All sealed roads

CAUTION – Do not take the C320 road between Dunalley and Orford as it is unsealed and can be unpassable in a 2WD (Google often recommends this route – don’t trust it!)

• Port Arthur Historic Site – I would allow at least 3 hours ( buy your tickets here )
• (Alternative) Pennicotts Tasman Island Cruise
• (Alternative) Any activities on the Tasman Peninsula that you couldn’t fit in yesterday
• (Alternative) Coal Mines Historic Site – free entry
• (Alternative) Walk to Crescent Bay (3hrs – easy difficulty and Parks Pass required – if you include Mt Brown it will add 1 extra hour)
• Port Arthur Lavender Farm – OR – The Cannery (Dunalley)
• Walk the trails of the Tasmanian Bushland Garden (Buckland)
• Decipher the mystery of the convict-built ‘Spiky Bridge’
• Ice creams from the Pondering Frog
• Visit Freycinet Marine Farm (fantastic local oysters)
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse (you could also visit here tomorrow morning for a spectacular sunrise)
• Explore the coastline at Coles Bay and watch The Hazards light up at sunset
• (Alternative) Wine Tasting @ Milton Vineyard / Gala Estate / Craigie Knowe Vineyard / Devil’s Corner Winery
• Families – BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet
• Couples – Freycinet Resort
• Quirky – Numie Glamping
• Luxe Treat – Freycinet Lodge

Day 3 – Freycinet NP to Bay of Fires

125km | 2hrs driving | All sealed roads

• Walk to Wineglass Bay lookout (1-1.5hrs – excellent track but quite a few steps – Parks Pass required)
• Bicheno blowhole
• (Alternative) Swim at Douglas Apsley Waterhole
• (Alternative) Glass Bottom Boat Tour
• Lobster Shack (Bicheno) – OR – Iron House Brewery and Distillery (Four Mile Creek)
• Tastings at Iron House Brewery and Distillery
• Fresh oysters from Lease 65 (Binalong Bay)
• Explore Bay of Fires – Skeleton Bay Reserve, Honeymoon Beach, The Gardens
• Bay of Fires Eco Tour
• Soak up the sunset on one of the many beaches
• Families – BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park
• Money Saver – Queechy Motel
• Hosted B&B – Beaumaris Beach Guest House – Special Offer for Lappers!
• Luxe Treat – Sea Eagle Cottage

Day 4 – Bay of Fires to the Tamar Valley (via Pyengana)

190km | 3hrs driving | All sealed roads

• Drive up to Pyengana and walk to Halls Falls (1hr – easy/moderate difficulty)
• Cheese tastings at Pyengana Dairy Company
• See Priscilla the Pig at the Pub in the Paddock
• Walk to St Columba Falls (30mins – easy)
• The Hub Derby – OR – Lot 40 Bar and Cafe (Derby)
• Explore the Derby Tunnel
• See the Legerwood Carved Memorial Trees (created with a chainsaw)
• Tastings at Little Rivers Brewery (Scottsdale)
• Enjoy the colours of Bridestowe Lavender Estate (in bloom Dec/Jan)
• Sip on Tassie’s finest bubbles at Clover Hill, Pipers Brook, Jansz, Delamere, or House of Arras wineries
• See the fairy penguins at Low Head at dusk ( book your tour here )
• Families – Low Head Tourist Park
• Historic – Low Head Pilot Station
• Quirky – Low Head Chapel

Day 5 – Tamar Valley to Launceston or Devonport

To Launceston: 70km | 1hr driving | All sealed roads To Devonport (via Launceston): 170km | 2hrs 15mins driving | All sealed roads

• Learn about the history of Low Head Pilot Station
• (Children’s Alternative) Seahorse World
• (Children’s Alternative) Platypus House
• Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre
• Enjoy a beer flight at Miner’s Gold Brewery (Fri-Sun, Beaconsfield)
• (Alternative) Wine tastings at the many wineries dotted along the Tamar Valley
• Tamar Valley Wine Centre (Exeter) – OR – Timbre Kitchen @ Velo Wines (Legana)

Afternoon Activities on your way to Launceston

• Enjoy the walking trails, chairlift, cafe and sprawling lawns at Cataract Gorge
• (Alternative) Explore the Tamar Wetlands
• (Children’s Alternative) Let the kids loose at Riverbend Park

Where to Stay in Launceston

• Families –  Discovery Parks Hadspen   –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Money Saver –  Leisure Inn Penny Royal Apartments
• B&B –  Kurrajong House
• Central Location –  Hotel Verge
• Luxe Treat –  Peppers Silo

Afternoon Activities between Launceston and Devonport

• Drive through Historic Hagley and stop at Hazelbrae Hazelnuts – Special offer for Lappers!
• Stop by Ashgrove Cheese, Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm and Van Diemens Land Creamery
• Tastings at Anvers Chocolates
• (Alternative) Enjoy the serenity of the Tasmanian Arboretum

Where to Stay in Devonport

• Families – Discovery Parks Devonport   –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Money Saver – Argosy Motor Inn
• Hosted B&B – The Grand on Macfie – Special Offer for Lappers!
• Quirky – The Cove Tasmania
• Modern Comfort – Waterfront Apartments

2. West Coast Wanderer

Highlights : Rainforests | Russell Falls | Gordon River Cruise | Waterfalls | West Coast Wilderness Railway | Cradle Mountain | Gourmet Food

If the East Coast is all rainbows and sunshine, Tasmania’s West Coast is its darkly seductive mirror image.

Impenetrable and lush World Heritage listed rainforests, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, tranquil rivers and rugged mining remnants greet you at every bend in the road, and the locals are full of fascinating stories of their pioneering ancestors who toiled against overwhelming odds to try and tame this unique and wild landscape.

This is one remarkable road trip you will never forget!

❄️ Snow in Tasmania A common misconception about Tasmania is that it snows often and heavily in winter. This is definitely not the case due to the warming influence of the waters surrounding Tasmania. While infrequent, snow falls can still occur at any time with June-September being more likely. However, when it does fall it is typically above 800m altitude (Cradle Mountain Village is at 900m) and the snow doesn’t normally settle long enough for you to have to worry about it on the roads. If you are concerned about a specific road or route, you can check for road closures here . Snow chains are not required on any sealed roads in Tasmania. They are only needed if you plan on driving your 4WD vehicle on unsealed roads in National Parks (eg. Hartz Peak, upper-Mt Field, and Ben Lomond). Click here to find all the best places to enjoy the snow in Tasmania!

Day 1 – Hobart to Strahan (via Mt Field)

300km | 4hrs 45mins driving | All sealed roads

• Take in the views from Pulpit Rock lookout (New Norfolk)
• Feed the fish and spot a platypus at the Salmon Ponds (Plenty)
• ‘Pick your own’ berries at Westerway Raspberry Farm in summer
• Russell Falls and Horseshoe Falls – Tasmania’s best short walk!
• (Alternative) Railtrack Riders tour
• Waterfalls Cafe and Gallery (Mt Field) – OR – Fika Time (Maydena)
• Browse the local arts, crafts and handmade souvenirs at Waterfalls Cafe and Gallery (Mt Field) – Special offer for Lappers!
• Say g’day to shaggy Highland Coos (Tarraleah)
• See the breath-taking ‘Wall in the Wilderness’ (Derwent Bridge)
• Drive the iconic ’99 Bends’ between Derwent Bridge and Queenstown
• Stretch your legs on the Franklin River Nature Trail (30mins – easy) and Nelson Falls (20mins – easy)
• (Alternative) Explore one of the easy short walks at Lake St Clair
• Families –  Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat  
• Money Saver –  Strahan Village  
• Hosted B&B –  Harrison House B&B – Special Offer for Lappers!  
• Luxe Splurge –  Wheelhouse Apartments  

Day 2 – Explore the West Coast

• Enjoy a full-day cruise up the mighty Gordon River with World Heritage Cruises –  Promo Code:  LAPOFTAS  for  10% OFF
• (Alternative) Retrace the steps of the old loggers on one of the train tours by West Coast Wilderness Railway
• (Alternative) Go off-road and learn more about the history of the region on a half or full-day 4WD tour with RoamWild
• Provided on your Cruise – OR – Tracks Cafe (Strahan)
• Laugh yourself silly at Australia’s longest-running play – The Ship That Never Was
• Drive to Queenstown and explore the town by foot (Paragon Theatre, Soggy Brolly shared art space, Missing Tiger book store, historic Empire Hotel, and more!)
• Platypus spotting at Hogarth Falls (45mins – easy)
• (Alternative) Drive to Macquarie Heads or Ocean Beach for great sunset photos
• Luxe Splurge –  Wheelhouse Apartments

Day 3 – Strahan to Cradle Mountain Village

145km | 2hrs driving | All sealed roads

• Have fun sliding down Henty Dunes
• See glow worms in the Zeehan Spray Tunnel
• Enjoy the automotive memorabilia at Pitstop Cafe (Zeehan)
• Step back in time at Wee Georgie Wood Steam Railway (Tullah)
• (Alternative) Walk to Montezuma Falls (3hrs – moderate)
• Tullah Cottage Cafe – OR – Tullah Lakeside Bar & Grill
• Soak up the views of the Vale of Belvoir ( here )
• Spend the afternoon exploring the short walks in and around Cradle Mountain Village (Enchanted Walk, Pencil Pine and Knyvet Falls, Rainforest Walk, King Billy Walk) – all are short and very easy
• Spy a Tasmanian Devil on an ‘After Dark’ Tassie Devil Feeding Tour
• Families –  Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain  –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Money Saver –  Cradle Mountain Highlanders  
• Best of the Best –  Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village  –  Promo Code:  LAPOFTAS  for  10% OFF
• Luxe Treat –  Cradle Mountain Lodge

Day 4 – Explore Cradle Mountain

• Ronny Creek -> Crater Lake -> Dove Lake walking trail (2hrs – moderate) with optional climb to Marions Lookout (45mins – difficult)
• (Alternative) Iconic Dove Lake loop walk (3hrs – easy/moderate)
• (Alternative) Cool off under the summer sun with a Cradle Canyons abseiling tour
• Organise a lunch hamper through your hotel – OR – Wilderness Lounge (Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village) – OR – The Tavern (Cradle Mountain Lodge)
• Spend a couple of hours viewing the beautiful artworks and photography on display at the Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery – perfect for a souvenir (we’ve got one hanging on our wall at home!)
• Tick off any other short walks near Cradle Mountain Village that you couldn’t do yesterday
• Relax with a spa treatment at Waldheim Alpine Spa

Day 5 – Cradle Mountain Village to Launceston or Devonport

To Launceston: 145km | 2hrs driving | All sealed roads To Devonport: 80km | 1hr 15mins driving | All sealed roads

• Have a fun-filled morning at Tasmazia & the Village of Lower Crackpot (Promised Land)
• Walk the streets of Sheffield and see the artistic murals
• (Alternative) Head underground and see the spectacular Mole Creek Caves
• Bush Inn Brewhouse (Wed-Sat, Deloraine) – OR – Dixie Blue (Deloraine)
• Follow the Sculpture Trail along the banks of the Meander River in Deloraine
• To Devonport – Enjoy the serenity of the Tasmanian Arboretum
• To Devonport – Tastings at Anvers Chocolates
• To Devonport – Head over to Lillico Beach and see the Fairy Penguins at dusk
• To Launceston – Historic Hagley and delicious Hazelbrae Hazelnuts
• To Launceston – Enjoy the walking trails, chairlift, cafe and sprawling lawns at Cataract Gorge
• (Children’s Alternative) To Launceston – Take the kids to Tassie’s best playground – Riverbend Park

3. Colonial Rambler

Highlights : Convict and Colonial History | Wines | Wildlife | Hydro Heritage | Golfing | Whisky

While the vast majority of travellers head up Tasmania’s east or west coasts, not so many realise just how much there is to see, do and experience on a road trip through central Tasmania.

There is so much convict history on this island, and this 5-day itinerary follows in the steps of some of Tasmania’s earliest convict and pioneer settlers as they pushed north from Hobart.

The Georgian architecture of Richmond, Oatlands, Ross and some of Tassie’s remote villages is a sight to behold – especially at sunset – and the Central Highlands is awash with both natural beauty and plenty of post-war stories revolving around the Hydro-Electric Commission and its role in bringing green power to the island decades before it became a buzzword.

If you appreciate history, beautiful scenery, and enjoy the quieter things in life, then you are going to love the Colonial Rambler 😊

Day 1 – Hobart to Richmond Village

30km | 30mins driving | All sealed roads

• Stroll the main street of Richmond Village and admire the beautiful Georgian architecture
• Enjoy a vanilla slice or scallop pie from Richmond Bakery
• Pick up a souvenir or antique from one of the many fantastic shops
• Walk across, and underneath Richmond Bridge – it’s Australia’s oldest!
• Czegs Cafe – OR – Larder & Vin
• Go behind bars and experience a tour of historic Richmond Gaol
• Get lost and have fun with the family among the hedgerows of Amaze
• Learn about the quirky side of life with a visit to Pooseum
• Stop by Every Man and His Dog Vineyard for delicious wines and handmade chocolates
• (Alternative) Enjoy wine tastings at Puddleduck, Pooley and Frogmore Creek wineries – or plenty of other wineries dotted along the valley
• (Alternative) Spend a few hours seeing Tassie Devils and other wildlife at Bonorong Sanctuary
• Money Saver – Richmond Coachmans Rest
• Families –  Tara’s Richmond Farmstay
• B&B –  Mulberry Cottage  
• Luxury and Romance –  Prospect House Private Hotel  

Day 2 – Richmond Village to Bothwell (via Mt Field)

150km | 2hr 15mins driving | All sealed roads

• Visit Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and see Tassie Devils, wombats and more (alternatively, you could do this on Day 1)
• Pulpit Rock lookout (New Norfolk)
• Explore New Norfolk by foot – Bush Inn (Australia’s oldest pub!), St Mathews Church, Willow Court and plenty of antique stores
• (Alternative) Paddle the calm waters of the Derwent River and go platypus spotting with Tassie Bound Kayak Tours
• Salmon Ponds (Plenty) – OR – Waterfalls Cafe and Gallery (Mt Field)
• Russell Falls and Horseshoe Falls (Mt Field) – Tasmania’s best short walk!
• Visit historic Lawrenny Estate and taste their award-winning range of whiskys
• Have a laugh and take a photo at Australia’s tiniest pub, “The Pub With No Beer” ( here )
• Camping – Bothwell Caravan Park
• Families –  White’s Corner
• Hosted B&B –  Ratho Farm – Special Offer for Lappers!
• Heritage – Bothwell Hotel of the Highlands

Day 3 – Bothwell to Ross (via Central Highlands)

250km | 3hrs 30mins driving | All sealed roads

• Visit the Australasian Golfing Museum in Bothwell
• Step back in time on the short walk to Pine Lake and see prehistoric trees and jaw-dropping scenery
• Drive up through the Central Highlands and past Great Lake before visiting the multi-tiered cascades of Liffey Falls – easily one of Tassie’s most beautiful
• (Alternative) Tour the self-guided Highlands Power Trail and see historic Waddamana Power Station
• (Alternative) Enjoy a round of golf at the oldest golf course outside Scotland – Ratho Farm Golf Links
• Great Lake Hotel (Miena) – OR – Imbibers (Oatlands)
• See the hidden ‘ Steppes Sculptures ‘ and historic homestead
• Stop at Oatlands and take a zillion photos of Callington Mill and surrounds before enjoying a whisky or gin tasting at the distillery
• Enjoy gourmet bites at Imbibers, or something sweet from The Pancake and Crepe Shop
• Camping – Ross Caravan Park
• Money Saver – White Croft Cottage
• Families – Elm Trees of Ross Cottage
• Luxury – Old World Charm – Simplistic Luxury Cottage

Day 4 – Ross to Evandale

70km | 1hr driving | All sealed roads

• Start your day with a world-famous vanilla slice from Ross Bakery (the one at the northern end of town)
• Walk the ruins and discover the stories behind the Ross Female Factory Historic Site
• Enjoy the antiquity and charm of Campbell Town – see the convict-built Red Bridge, Convict Brick Trail and quirky Book Cellar
• Visit Clarendon House on the banks of the Esk River, complete with elm avenue and sprawling parklands, one of Australia’s grandest country manors
• (Alternative) Head up Tasmania’s most iconic and photogenic road – Jacobs Ladder – and continue on to the ski-fields of Ben Lomond (Note: Jacob’s Ladder is an unsealed road and its steep and winding design mean caravans and motorhomes are prohibited – more info here )
• No. 10 Cafe (Evandale) – OR – The Clarendon Arms (Evandale)
• Drive across to Longford and experience a guided tour of World Heritage listed Woolmers Estate and Brickendon Estate – two of Australia’s best-preserved examples of our colonial farming heritage
• Walk the historic streets of Evandale – home of Australia’s most prestigious landscape art competition The Glover Prize (every March you can see the finalists’ paintings displayed in Falls Park Pavilion)
• Get yourself Falls Park on Sunday morning for the Evandale Market – locally grown fruit and veg, handmade clothing and knick-knacks, tasty treats to snack on, and pony rides for the children
• If you are visiting in late April you will love the Evandale Village Fair and National Penny Farthing Championships
• (Alternative) Sample the award-winning wines and wander the gardens of Josef Chromy Estate
• Campers – Longford Riverside Caravan Park (Longford)
• Families – Queens Arms Hotel (Longford)
• Cosy Cottage – Peg Cottage
• Luxe Treat – Blackwood Tree Cottage

Day 5 – Evandale to Launceston or Devonport (via Deloraine)

To Launceston (via Deloraine): 110km | 1hr 30mins driving | All sealed roads To Devonport (via Deloraine): 110km | 1hr 30mins driving | All sealed roads

• Get off the highway and drive through the historic towns of Carrick, Hagley and Westbury (in autumn the leaves look amazing)
• Enjoy tastings and a farm tour of Hazelbrae Hazelnuts – Special offer for Lappers!
• Follow the Sculpture Trail and go for a stroll along the banks of the Meander River in Deloraine – platypus often make an appearance early and late in the day – and explore this fantastic country town
• Enjoy a wee dram at Western Tiers Distillery
• Every March see the crop maze at Rupertswood Farm
• To Launceston – Enjoy the natural beauty and walking trails of Cataract Gorge (Launceston)
• (Children’s Alternative) To Launceston – Let the children run amok at the epic Riverbend Park
• (Alternative) To Launceston – Wander the boardwalks and see the wildlife of the Tamar Island Wetlands

BONUS: 5-day Loop Itineraries

The three itineraries I’ve shown you here are perfect for travellers who can plan their holiday in Tasmania to start at one end of the island, and to finish at the other.

However, there is a good chance you may not be able to do that because you are either:

• Flying in and out of the same airport (ie. Hobart or Launceston); or
• Catching the Spirit of Tasmania ferry to/from Devonport

If that sounds like you then you will find a 5-day ‘loop’ itinerary to be more useful.

I plan on creating another article (just like this one) where I present these in detail, but for now you’ll love these high-level overviews of suggested loop itineraries, departing from Hobart, and Launceston/Devonport.

If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to get in touch over in our Facebook Group ( here ).

From Hobart – 5-Day Loop Itineraries

Derwent Valley

• Day 1 – Hobart to Mt Field
• Day 2 – Mt Field to Derwent Bridge
• Day 3 – Derwent Bridge to Bothwell
• Day 4 – Bothwell to Richmond
• Day 5 – Richmond to Hobart

Huon Valley and Bruny Island

• Day 1 – Hobart to Huonville
• Day 2 – Huonville to Dover
• Day 3 – Dover to Margate
• Day 4 – Bruny Island Day Trip
• Day 5 – Margate to Hobart
• Day 1 – Hobart to Port Arthur
• Day 2 – Port Arthur to Freycinet
• Day 3 – Freycinet to Bay of Fires
• Day 4 – Bay of Fires to Ross
• Day 5 – Ross to Hobart

From Launceston / Devonport – 5-Day Loop Itineraries

Cradle Coast

• Day 1 – Launnie/D’port to Cradle Mountain
• Day 2 – Explore Cradle Mountain
• Day 3 – Cradle Mountain to Stanley
• Day 4 – ‘Tarkine Drive’ Day Trip
• Day 5 – Stanley to Launnie/D’Port

Bay of Fires and Freycinet

• Day 1 – Launnie/D’Port to Low Head
• Day 2 – Low Head to Bay of Fires
• Day 3 – Bay of Fires to Freycinet
• Day 4 – Freycinet to Evandale
• Day 5 – Evandale to Launnie/D’Port

Final Thoughts

It’s been plenty of fun showing you these three fantastic 5-day itineraries, and I hope the information I’ve provided has given you some really good ideas for you Tassie road trip.

I’m guessing you might be looking for advice on other aspects of your holiday, so I thought I might provide a few links to some of the most popular articles here on the website:

• Choose the right vehicle – and save $$$ – with my Car Hire Comparison Guide and my Campervan/Motorhome Guide
• Review my accommodation guides for my personal selections and recommendations
• Check my list of special offers – exclusive to Lappers!
• Familiarise yourself with Tasmania’s roads with my Guide to Driving Times and Distances
• For even more help in the planning process, you will love my comprehensive eBook – “ How to Plan Your Tasmania Road Trip “

Thanks for taking the time to visit the Lap of Tasmania and I wish you all the best for your future travels – hopefully we’ll see you here real soon!

Cheers, Andrew.

Andrew Strikis

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We acknowledge and pay respect to the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community as the traditional owners  and continuing custodians  of  this island lutruwita (Tasmania).

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5 Day Hobart to Hobart Tasmania Tour

• Trip Styles: Budget

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Explore amazing waterfalls, beautiful hiking tracks, mountains, dramatic coastlines, and the quaint but quirky towns of Tasmania.

Not certain about dates, or have a question? Ask here

Join us on our Tasmania tours 5 days of fun exploring this beautiful part of the world. Discover this amazing Island with an expert guide and a fun tour group. Spot the famous Tasmanian wildlife and explore the beautiful landscape of the island.

Our most popular Tasmania tours 5 days from Hobart. This tour gives you the opportunity to get out in nature and hike on a daily basis. This means you will be spending more time in the beautiful scenery rather than staring at it from behind a bus window. Tasting the delicious Tasmanian produce and meeting the friendly locals, this tour offers a perfect balance between relaxation, fun, and activities.

This is an action-packed 5 day Tasmania tour! You will be on the go for the full 5 days to see as much as possible.

Where do we visit on 5 days in Tasmania? First up you will visit Russell Falls in Mt Field National Park, which takes the prize of the prettiest waterfall in Tasmania. Then it’s time to explore the nation’s largest temperate rainforest of Tarkine. With abundant native wildlife, be sure to look out for a platypus, echidna, wombat, or bandicoot as you hike the forest. Day 3 is everyone’s ultimate day on tour, Cradle Mountain. We offer plenty of hikes options today to suit everyone on tour.

Day 4 and 5 we then drive the East Coast, taking in the Bay of Fires and Wineglass Bay as you finish your adventure in Hobart.

You will see the highlights of Tasmania on tour. 4 nights on tour with options of accommodation style. either stay in multi-share dorms on tour or upgrade to private room options. We have our Comfort Plus accommodation style, in addition to our hostel and motel-based accommodations.

The ultimate 5-day tour of Tasmania. What are you waiting for?

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Our travellers often combine this trip with some of these trips:

1 Day Maria Island National Park Tour

1 Day Port Arthur and Tasman Peninsula Tour

• Total Price: $ 1,285 Add All To Cart Add All To Wishlist Browse Wishlist
• This item: 5 Day Hobart to Hobart Tasmania Tour ( $ 975 )
• 1 Day Maria Island National Park Tour ( $ 170 )
• 1 Day Port Arthur and Tasman Peninsula Tour ( $ 140 )

Hobart 5 Day Tour

Discover the untamed beauty of Tasmania as our remarkable tour of lutruwita unfolds. Begin your journey on the captivating West Coast, where a series of breathtaking short walks await. Brace yourself for an unforgettable encounter with nature as we explore three mesmerizing National Parks. Our first stop takes us to Mount Field, where you’ll be enchanted by the majestic Russell Falls and towering trees that rank among the world’s tallest. Experience a moment of tranquility on the shores of Lake St Clair, a pristine freshwater lake that holds the title of Australia’s deepest, nestled within the Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park. As we venture further west, prepare to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring landscapes adorned with mountains, button grass plains, and lush rainforests in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Along the way, we’ll pause at Queenstown, offering insights into Tasmania’s pioneer history, before settling into our cozy accommodations in the charming harbourside village of Strahan. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to spend two nights in this idyllic setting, with our knowledgeable guides ready to assist you in spotting the elusive platypus. Rest well and recharge, as our adventure continues to unfold.

Overnight: Strahan.

mbark on a captivating journey through the ancient temperate rainforests of Tarkine/takayna as we unveil the hidden gem of Montezuma Falls. Traverse through lush greenery on an exhilarating walk that leads you to the majestic Montezuma Falls, nestled within this enchanting wilderness. Once we’ve immersed ourselves in the wonders of the rainforest, we’ll venture back to the coastal region to discover the awe-inspiring Henty Sand Dunes, a vast expanse that awaits our exploration. Alternatively, you have the option to partake in the unforgettable Gordon River Cruise (additional cost), a mesmerizing voyage that takes you through Macquarie Harbour and into the heart of the World Heritage Area. Later in the day, we’ll make our way to Ocean Beach, Tasmania’s longest stretch of sand, where you can bask in the glory of the windswept shoreline and savor the freshest air known to mankind. As the day comes to a close, we’ll retreat to our comfortable accommodations in Strahan, ready to continue our remarkable adventure.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the splendor of Cradle Mountain National Park, a true gem among hiking destinations worldwide. Nestled deep within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, this extraordinary landscape, sculpted by glaciers, teems with a rich diversity of wildlife. Our adventure begins at Ronny Creek, where we’ll keep an eye out for adorable wombats, a signature inhabitant of the area. Next, you’ll have the privilege of choosing from a selection of invigorating walking options, each offering a unique perspective of the alpine environment. Will you dare to conquer the summit of Marion’s Lookout, granting you a breathtaking panoramic view? Alternatively, you may opt to embark on the enchanting Dove Lake Circuit, an experience that will immerse you in the park’s magical aura. As the day progresses, we’ll journey onward, passing through Sheffield, famously known as the “Town of Murals,” where vibrant artwork adorns the streets. Finally, we’ll arrive at Launceston, one of Australia’s oldest cities, where our unforgettable day comes to a close. Rest and rejuvenate in anticipation of the adventures that await tomorrow.

Overnight: Launceston.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Launceston’s Cataract Gorge as we embark on a delightful exploration. Just minutes away from the city center, this picturesque nature reserve will captivate your senses. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, keeping a keen eye out for charming wallabies that call this sanctuary home. Following our time at Cataract Gorge, we’ll embark on a scenic drive towards the East Coast, passing by the majestic St Columba Falls, where gigantic tree ferns create an enchanting atmosphere. Indulge in a delightful lunch at St Helens, preparing yourself for the next part of our adventure – a mesmerizing walk along Tasmania’s finest beaches, including the world-renowned Bay of Fires/larapuna. Delight in the pristine sands and turquoise waters that grace this breathtaking coastline while learning about the cultural significance of larapuna for the Tasmanian aboriginal people/palawa. Take your time to soak in the awe-inspiring coastal scenery before we continue our journey towards the laid-back township of Bicheno, a place where the little penguins find their sanctuary. Get ready for an overnight stay in Bicheno, where you can unwind and savor the tranquility that surrounds you. Overnight: Bicheno.

Indulge in the unparalleled beauty of Freycinet National Park as we dedicate this day to its exploration. Unwind on a pristine white-sand beach, allowing the gentle waves to soothe your soul. You’ll have the opportunity to embark on a leisurely walk to the iconic Wineglass Bay beach or admire the breathtaking vistas from the lookout point. For those seeking a more adventurous challenge, the exhilarating climb to the summit of Mt Amos awaits. From its peak, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views encompassing Freycinet’s majestic pink granite mountains, secluded coves, and coastal bushlands. Take a moment to soak in the awe-inspiring landscapes that stretch before you. Before bidding farewell to this natural wonder, we’ll visit the Cape Tourville Lighthouse, offering magnificent vistas of the Tasman Sea.

As our journey draws to a close, we’ll follow the scenic Great Eastern Drive, meandering our way back to Hobart/nipaluna, where your unforgettable tour of Tasmania reaches its conclusion.

• Visit Tasmania’s most treasured place Russell Falls
• Hike Lake St Clair in the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area
• Marvel at how pristine Cradle Mountain National Park can be.
• Striking orange lichen-cloaked boulders of Bay of Fires
• Look out for the famous Tassie Devils!
• Admire the beauty of Wineglass Bay
• Essential things to pack
• Drink bottle
• Comfortable trail walking shoes
• Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Clothes to suit conditions (layers are a good idea)
• Waterproof jacket (just in case)
• Swimwear and towel (conditions permitting)
• Important Booking Info
• In Tasmania, we wish to acknowledge the palawa and pakana as the Traditional custodians of the land and recognise their ongoing connection to land, waters, and culture. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
• This tour is Advanced eco-certified. Our tour aims for minimal impact, leave no trace principles. Accredited with Parks and Wildlife Tasmania and Accredited Tourism Business Australia, we hold Eco Certified Tourism Green Travel Leader and Advanced Ecotourism Accreditation Certification.
• We are also ROC (Respect Our Culture) Certified.
• All transport provided in our modern and economical turbo diesel vehicles.
• Where possible we use locally owned accommodation and eat in local establishments that source their produce close to home.
• Hostel Dorm style accommodation is based on same-gender dormitory rooms with shared same-gender bathrooms.
• Motel style accommodation is based on private Motel rooms or self-contained Cabins with private bathroom facilities. If booking a Twin or Double accommodation option, a minimum of 2 persons is required. We are unable to match up single travellers into a Twin-share option.
• The tours that we offer are designed to help you see as much of Tasmania as possible with like-minded travelers. There is no maximum age provided as long as you have a good sense of adventure and a reasonable level of fitness, however, we do have a minimum age of 8 years old to ensure all passengers get the most from the tour!

You can bring up to 20kg of luggage to be stored in our trailer while traveling, we advise you to bring a day pack for access to day-to-day items.

If you have a flight out later than 7.30 pm, we can drop you directly at the airport on the last day of the tour.

Pick up from Hobart CBD Hostels or Motels at approx 7:00AM on day 1. Drop off back in Hobart at approx 5:30PM on day 5.Please lock in pick up location 72 hours before the tour commencement.

Please allow enough spending money for meals and drinks not included on the itinerary, as well as any souvenirs or extra’s you may want to purchase throughout the tour.

We allow children over 8 to travel on tour with their families. However, they cannot stay in the dorm share option. You will need to book the upgrade to private rooms on tour. Ask us for more details.

This tour offers hostel and motel style accommodation options. Motel style accommodations are based on private rooms with ensuite facilities If booking Twin or Double accommodation options, a minimum of 2 persons is required. We are unable to match up single travellers into a Twin share option Hostel Dorm style accommodation is based on same gender dormitory rooms with shared same-gender bathrooms. Own toiletries and towels are required Hostel Twin/Double and Single rooms have shared same-gender bathrooms

The walking in Tasmania is world-class, and we’ve selected beautiful walking experiences for our guests (we include many of the 60-great-short-walks of Tasmania) Some walks are guided, while others are unguided (free walking In many locations there is a choice between an easier or more advanced option Essentially, you can make this as active or as easy as you like; all walks are optional and range from 20 minutes up to 4 hours

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• Description

5 Days Icons of Tasmania (Small Group Tour)

• Multi Day Small Group Tours
• 5 Five days private tour
• From AUD 2899.00 per person (min. 4 guests)

Let us invite you on this 5-days small-group tour to experience our pristine wilderness, unique wildlife and beautiful beaches. Get a sense of Tasmania’s history and the best of our renowned local hospitality. Step back in time and understand how life as a convict was at Port Arthur.  Enjoy the scenic drive along the picturesque East Coast. Once arriving at Freycinet National Park, our local guide will take you up to the Wineglass Bay lookout. We will continue to the UNESCO World-heritage listed Cradle Mountain National Park, where a variety of walking options suitable for every fitness levels are available. Meet our icon animal, the Tasmanian Devil, and visit the colourful Salamanca Market as part of the program. Take home memories of Tasmania’s icons that will last a lifetime. The tour starts in Hobart and ends in Launceston.

Wineglass bay at freycinet national park, cradle mountain, hobart's constitution dock, tasmanian devil (sarcophilus harrisii) - bonorong wildlife park.

The world's largest surviving carnivorous marsupial, the devil has a thick-set, squat build, with a relatively large, broad head and short, thick tail. The fur is mostly or wholly black, but white markings often occur on the rump and chest. Body size also varies greatly, depending on the diet and habitat. Adult males are usually larger than adult females. Large males weigh up to 12 kg, and stand about 30 cm high at the shoulder.

Salamanca Market in Hobart

stroll through the iconic Salamanca Market

• Travel Dates

Experience pristine wilderness, unique wildlife, beautiful beaches, a sense of history and the best of contemporary Tasmanian hospitality. This 5-day tour highlights the magic of Australia’s island state. Designed by people who know and love Tasmania, this small group tour incorporates Tasmanian icons such as the UNESCO World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain, the incomparable Wineglass Bay, the Tasmanian devil, the convict ruins of Port Arthur and Salamanca Market in Hobart.

Tour includes:

• Small group touring with a local guide
• Transport in a well-appointed vehicle
• 4 nights accommodation
• 4 x breakfast, 4 x lunch
• Entry to Devils@Cradle
• Entry to Port Arthur Historic Site
• National Parks Passes and Hobart arrival transfer

DAY 1/ SATURDAY        

ARRIVAL HOBART – AIRPORT TRANSFER

Arrive in Tasmania’s capital city, Hobart and transfer to your accommodation. Enjoy a day at leisure in Hobart. Take time to stroll through Hobart’s legendary Salamanca Market which is set at the stunning historical waterfront. Here you will find quality local handcraft, food and entertainment. In the afternoon you may choose to board the ferry to MONA. The Museum of Old & New Art is one of the world’s most unique and controversial museums. View the largest private art collection in Australia with its fascinating blend of ancient and modern art.

Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Hobart, Double room (or similar) Meals: —

DAY 2/ SUNDAY           

HISTORY – GEOLOGY

The Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur Historic Site are some of Tasmania’s most visited destinations. Set in tranquil gardens, Tasmania’s famous convict settlement site harbours a dark history that our experienced guide will bring to life. As you stroll amongst the now peaceful buildings, envisage the harsh life that was endured by the hapless convicts. View the famous geological features of the Peninsula as you explore the rugged coastline. In the afternoon, travel to the historic village of Richmond, nestled in the Coal River Valley. Experience the nostalgia of colonial times as you stroll and admire the well-preserved colonial architecture before returning to Hobart

Accommodation: 4* Hotel in Hobart, Double room (or similar) Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 3/ MONDAY         

FREYCINET – WINEGLASS BAY

Enjoy a drive along Tasmania’s East Coast to the Freycinet Peninsula, with its exceptional beauty, pristine white sandy beaches and granite coastline. Explore the scenic grandeur of the Freycinet National Park. Walk the track up to the world-famous Wineglass Bay lookout for some stunning photo opportunities, with views across the Freycinet Peninsula. A shorter cli­ff top walk around the lighthouse at Cape Tourville is also on offer.

Accommodation: Freycinet Lodge, One Room cabin Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 4/ TUESDAY         

FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK – CRADLE MOUNTAIN

Continue your journey to Launceston for an introductory tour of Tasmania’s largest northern city. Explore  the scenic  Cataract Gorge where the South Esk River forces its way through sheer rocky cliffs. Evoke memories of the genteel Victorian era as you stroll in the landscaped gardens.  After lunch, travel through lush rolling farm pastures before reaching alpine bush and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain National Park. At night, meet our iconic mascot, the Tasmanian Devil with the possibility to get close and observe these quirky animals in a natural-like habitat

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Hotel, Standard room (or similar) Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 5/ WEDNESDAY   

CRADLE MOUNTAIN – DOVE LAKE – LAUNCESTON DEPARTURE

On a clear day, the rugged grandeur of Cradle Mountain is reflected in the tranquil waters of Dove Lake, or you may experience the drama of its craggy peaks through swirling mist. Your guide will share insights into the history, flora and fauna of the region. Walks are available to suit the group and weather.

NOTE: Return to Launceston after lunch, where this tour ends approximately 4:00 pm.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

2023 Departures

2024 departures, exceeded my expectations.

I wanted to experience Tasmania with a knowledgeable guide and in luxury / comfort. It was a tour that exceeded my expectations. We loved Rob and the coach was perfect. Thank you!

Catherine Leggett

USA, January 2019 (private tour)

I will always remember Tasmania

I will always remember Tasmania because of the good time I had on this tour. I would recommend this company because of its good guides and its mode of transport.

Mrs McBride

USA, January 2019

A fabulous Tassie road trip

Thank you for arranging the itinerary for us. We enjoyed it immensely, feeling, in the end, it really was a taster for many more trips in the future. The devil experience was a real highlight … our son really enjoyed it … as was lunch at Bangor vineyard and the Marakoopa cave tour! And of course amazing food, wine and gin along the way.

Sydney, NSW, December 2020

One of the best guides we have ever had

We loved our time in Tasmania. Our guide Richard was one of the best guides we have ever had – extremely knowledgeable and a pleasure to be with.

Jim & Betsy Jansen

USA, February 2019 (private tour)

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5 Days Tasmania’s Wildlife Encounter (Small Group Tour)

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A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, 5-day tasmania itinerary: road trip from hobart.

I have heard a lot about Tasmania – about the unique and beautiful nature down there, and how they have the cleanest air in the world because they are so far removed from everything else.

I’ve seen the rugged beauty of Tasmania in Lion , a true story made into an Oscar-nominated drama movie featuring Nicole Kidman and Dev Patel. Needless to say, I was very excited about this trip. It also helped that my Australian friends would gush about how food in Tasmania just tasted better and that their local produce is considered superior even among Australians.

In this post, you can find the details of planning a road trip in Tasmania and the East Coast itinerary I ended up with.

My 5 Days in Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

In my past Australia posts , I’ve talked about how surprised I was at the sheer size of the country-continent. Well, Tasmania is no exception – even though on the map it looks like a small portion of Australia, it’s still quite huge. If you want to hit everything Tasmania has to offer then I reckon you’ll need a good 10-14 days.

Now here comes the problem – I only have 5 days in Tasmania. So I knew I had to make some sacrifices. I narrowed down what my must-dos are: I want to see at least one national park, I want to eat Tasmanian oysters, and I want to still see some sights around Hobart. Keeping these in mind, I had to settle for the shorter option, which meant driving only halfway up the east coast to Freycinet National Park before driving back down again.

🗺 Save this map to your phone!  If you are a Google user, click on the image of the map above. The map will then be saved to your “Recent” maps viewed.  Click here for instructions on how to view the map later . It will work from your phone too.

The final itinerary I went with was this:

• Day 1: Explore Hobart (Fly in the morning)
• Day 2: Drive up to Bicheno (3 hours)
• Day 3: Explore  Freycinet National Park
• Day 4: Drive down to Port Arthur and Tasman Island (3 hours)
• Day 5: Bruny Island Foodie Day trip

If you have more time – You can always opt to drive further up towards Binalong Bay and the Bay of Fires, before ending up at Launceston, the second biggest city in Tasmania.

Cash Management in Australia

In Australia, you can use your credit card pretty much everywhere. I didn’t use cash for most of my trips there. However, if you prefer to transact in cash, then exchange your money before the trip. Do NOT exchange your money in Australia, especially at the Airport. They generally don’t give you a good exchange rate and sometimes apply a fee for the transaction – check out this article for horror stories .

My friend tried to exchange AUD for SGD at Sydney Airport and was given a rate of $1.43 when the going rate was $1.04. His A$163 became S$115 when it should have been S$155. I know as a general rule you are not supposed to change currency in airports, but to his defense, we’ve changed currencies in other airports and were not ripped off as badly as in Australia.

General Tips for Driving in Australia

• Rent a car and arrange to pick it up straight from the airport you’re flying into. Saves you tons of time!
• Have an International Driver’s License with at least a month’s validity.
• Keep to the speed limit! I have been told the Australian police is very strict on speeding.
• Fill up the tank before returning your car, or it’s going to cost you.
• Most businesses (except restaurants) are closed by 4-5 pm. Yes, even grocery stores, so plan ahead if you need to replenish resources.
• Bring an Adapter for USB Charging in the car. Something like this is perfect. You’ll be driving a lot, so you’ll want to use your phone for music, GPS and research and that stuff will eat into your battery.
• Bring a power bank. My favorite power bank is the Xiaomi 10,000 mAh. This stuff is super powerful. It can charge my iPhone 7+ more than twice.

My Itinerary of 5 Days in Tasmania

As you can imagine, there are lots to do in Tasmania so I’ve broken up the posts to guide you through the special highlights of the trip:

Day 1: Hobart & Surrounding Area

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania, and likely the starting point if you are an international traveler like us. In this Hobart City Guide post , you’ll find the low-down of this quaint city – what to eat, where to stay, and day trips you can take from Hobart.

Day 2-3: Bicheno and Freycinet National Park

When driving through the east coast of Tasmania, it’s pretty much a no-brainer that you have to stop by Freycinet National Park . This post will guide you through the planning of visiting the park: how to get there, where to stay, and what to do.

Day 4: Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur

The Tasman Peninsula is only a short 1-hour drive from Hobart and houses some of the most beautiful terrains Tasmania has to offer.

Hint: It’s one of the locations for the movie  Lions , which if you haven’t seen – you should. It’s both shot beautifully and the story is very unique.

While you are there, I recommend stopping by Port Arthur , a historic village that served as a convict settlement built in the mid-18th century!

Here are some tours to Port Arthur / Tasman Peninsula from Hobart you can consider:

• Port Arthur Day Tour from Hobart – In addition to the village, you’ll also get to see some of Tasman Peninsula’s popular sites, such as Devil’s Kitchen, Tasman Arch, and the Blowhole.
• Tasman Island Cruises  by Penicott Wilderness Journeys  – If you are the adventurous type, I highly recommend checking out this cruise. This is done by the same company I went to  Bruny Island  with. We got to see dolphins and other wildlife in this cruise!

Find more info about this in my Hobart Guide !

Day 5: Bruny Island

Bruny Island is a holiday island 45 minutes south of Hobart. The island is formed by two large land masses, separated only by a narrow stretch of sand called “The Neck”. More importantly, for me, the island is famous for its gourmet local produce!

You can read about my day of eating and drinking on Bruny Island here .

Getting a Car Rental/Hire

Here is a tip for road trip newbies like myself: You can arrange to rent/hire a car and pick it up straight from the airport you’re flying into. All car rental companies would have their own drop-off zone at the airport parking lot. This saves you time and money since you don’t have to worry about your airport transport anymore!

I booked a car hire through Cheaptickets , which connects you to local car rental companies. I recommend doing this a few weeks before your actual trip!

Tip: You can also book excess insurance with your booking, which covers you in case you get in an accident. If you get this insurance through Cheaptickets, it’s only $9.90 a day. However, if you buy the insurance at booking point, it would cost you $30-40 a day so I recommend to buy the insurance online.

Not a fan of booking ahead? You could just get a car when you get to the airport since all the car rental companies have an office in the airport. However, if you do it this way you might risk not having a car available for hire on the day of your arrival. Just an example, when I was in Hobart it so happened that a huge cruise ship was docking in the city for a few days. A bunch of its 3000-something passengers was looking to hire cars and explore the region and I heard most car rentals were fully booked until Monday when I arrived Saturday morning.

Booking Accommodations in Tasmania

I also booked all my accommodations through Cheaptickets . Cheaptickets’ hotel booking engine is powered by booking.com, so you can be assured you get the best deal and good cancellation policy – though I would still pay attention to each booking since the cancellation policy differs hotel to hotel.

I find the accommodations in Tasmania to be on the more expensive side, especially as you get into the smaller cities. The accommodations I booked ranges from AU$150-200 (US$115-155) per night. Here are the hotels I booked for my itinerary above:

• Shipwright Arms (Hobart) – This is a really small no-frills hotel & pub located in the historic Battery Point neighborhood of Hobart. Their rooms are very simple and there is no dedicated receptionist at the desk (the person checking us in was also tending to the bar, but this hotel was the cheapest I could find in Hobart that isn’t a hostel or with a shared bathroom.
• Bicheno by the Bay (Bicheno) – A beautiful lodge just minutes’ walk away from the beach and city center of Bicheno (which is a very small town). I loved this hotel as they have the best shower out of all the accommodations I had on this trip! The hot water heats up in seconds, has good water pressure and they have a heating lamp in the bathroom – something I truly missed on cold nights when I was stepping out of the shower.
• Rydges Hobart  (Hobart) – The hotel is a renovated heritage building, located conveniently close to the center of Hobart. I’m not sure if they upgraded us, but our Manor Twin room was huge! It has its own living room and a huge bathroom. It’s definitely the most spacious and modern out of all three accommodations.

Example of Cost of the trip

Since I was tracking my spending throughout the entire trip, I am sharing them here with you so you can get an idea of how much you’ll be spending in USD.

Hotel and transport were non-negotiable – I think no matter what you do, you’ll end up spending around that much per day/night. Perhaps you could spend a bit less on the hotel if you are going the backpacking route – shared bathrooms / rooms and all.

For Meals , it varied greatly since on some days we skipped lunch, and on some days we had expensive dinners. I think $45/person/day is a more accurate estimate if you eat a modest breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can also save some money on meals if you choose to cook yourself or eat at a fast food restaurant.

Activities are also negotiable. The price above included a cruise and a full-day food tour which consist of about 70% of the amount above. The rest are the museum entrance, park entrance, etc.

What to expect from driving in Tasmania

Here are a few small things I noted during our road trip:

• Lots of roadkill along the Tasmanian roads! I’m not sure why since I didn’t see this when we drove in Queensland, but in Tasmania, you can expect to see road kills of varying sizes (from squirrels to wallabies) every time you drive out from the city.
• All businesses tend to close early, so try to check in to your hotel before 5 pm or be sure to notify the hotel if you are arriving at an off-house so that they can arrange an alternative check-in method and you won’t be left stranded!
• Yes, even grocery stores will close early so plan ahead if you need to replenish resources. I find this to be very true, especially in Tasmania.
• Weather changes fast, so bring various layers. Super strong sun – bring adequate sunscreen and layer up with extra clothing to shield yourself, even when you are driving in the car.
• 3G and 4G were widely available in the areas I went to, but I still downloaded offline maps on my Google Maps app just in case we go off the grid. I experienced low connectivity only at Freycinet National Park .

General Tips on Traveling in Australia

• A credit card works everywhere in Australia – even in small towns. We brought $200 Aussie Dollars with us and only ended up spending about $50 of it.
• Have an International Driver’s License that has at least a month of validity left.
• With rental cars, you should fill up the tank before returning your car, or it’s going to cost you extra.
• Bring an Adapter for USB Charging in the car in case your car doesn’t have a USB charging point, so you can still charge your  Something  like this  is perfect.
• Bring a power bank. My favorite power bank is  the Xiaomi 10,000 mAh . This stuff is super powerful. It can charge my iPhone 7+ more than twice.

And that’s all folks! I hope that was helpful to you.

• April 19, 2021

Tasmania has a lot to offer for travel enthusiasts and will surely not disappoint! There’s always food for the eyes (sceneries) and the tummy. Love this itinerary, so handy!

• July 20, 2020

Some good points about considerations for overseas travellers. Tasmania is a fabulous place to visit and the National Parks there are world class. Our favourite spots included Freycinet National Park and a summer beach stay in Bicheno.

• June 9, 2019

Hello Melissa, for the Bruny Island tour, did you do any hotel pick up or you drove somewhere to park your car before the shuttle bus picked you up? Where would you recommend parking the rented car? Thank you 🙂

Hey Joel, we walked to the pick up point since it was close to our hotel. There are plenty of parking around but you’ll have to pay since it’s in the central area.

• April 16, 2019

awesome post thanks for sharing

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How To Spend 5 Days in Tasmania

For a small state, there is so much to see and do in such high concentration, that you won’t be bored. In fact, you'll probably run out of time trying to fit it all in. Here’s how I spent 5 days in Tasmania!

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My dad’s side of my family has its roots in Australia. I took my first trip to visit when I was in high school, and I liked Australia, but I wasn’t totally mesmerized by it yet. I was 15, and not many things about the world really impressed me yet (you remember those days, right?). A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to visit Australia again, and I knew I wanted this time to be different. This time, I wanted to find different experiences and climates and atmospheres to build a better understanding of the country that half of my family calls home. So, along with visiting Sydney, I spent time in the Gold Coast and Byron Bay , and took a detour (along with my first long solo trip) down – like way down – to Tasmania.

While less visited and a bit more off the beaten path than some of Australia’s other, more famous destinations, I was drawn to Tasmania’s remote location and promise of rugged landscape, abundant wildlife, and impressive culinary scene. Tasmania is one of 6 states in Australia, and the only one that’s disconnected from the country’s mainland. But, with all that said, the island is actually only a short and cheap flight from the mainland continent, so it’s easily accessible, making it perfect for a quick trip! Because this was a solo trip for me, I spent months doing research and plotting out my itinerary, making sure that I could see as much of east coast Tasmania as possible with 5 days, a limited budget, and somewhat limited mobility.

For an introduction to Tasmania over a short amount of time, you’ll want to fly in and out of Hobart, and focus your itinerary on exploring the sights in and around the capital city. But, don’t think for a second that you’d be missing out on anything! For a small state, there is so much to see and do in such high concentration, that you won’t be bored. In fact, you’ll probably run out of time trying to fit it all in. Here’s how I spent 5 days in Tasmania, in and around Hobart. 

Tip: You will need to rent (‘hire’) a car for this itinerary. I got mine for around $40-$50 USD per day, and I only hired mine for 3 out of the 5 days of my trip, in order to visit the Tasman Peninsula and Freycinet National Park. Days 1 and 2 I was able to do without using a car.

How to Spend 5 Days in Tasmania

Day 1: explore hobart  .

Hobart is one of those places where on the surface, it seems like a pretty straightforward little city. But once you’re there, everything changes, and suddenly, Hobart feels like a discovery waiting to happen around every corner. As the second-oldest city in Australia, Hobart is rife with old-era Gregorian architecture and nods to the city’s place in the country’s fascinating convict history. But it’s so much more than that, too. This small but sprawling city situated on both sides of the massive Derwent River packs a huge punch of history, cultural immersion, and hip, modern places to hang out. Because Tasmania’s still somewhat up-and-coming from a tourism perspective, most every place you’ll visit in Hobart is in good odds of being uncrowded and inviting – perfect for exploring everything at your own pace. With my limited time in Hobart, here are some places I went that I highly recommend: 

To Do: 

MONA ( Museum of Old and New Art) : How do I even begin to describe this place? It’s thought-provoking, intriguing, and entirely bizarre, and people who visit can’t stop raving about it, so you’ll have to see it for yourself. With no car, you can take the museum’s ferry from Hobart CBD (central business district), which will bring you right to the museum’s entrance.

Salamanca Market : If you happen to be in Tassie on a Saturday, the Salamanca outdoor market is non-negotiable.

Walk around Battery Point : Battery Point is one of Hobart’s oldest and most stunning neighborhoods. This area used to be the site of a battery of guns that protected Hobart, and is worth a stroll to check out the cute cafes and historic buildings.

Head to the Waterfront : The Waterfront in Hobart is stunning. Walk down by the docks to see the Derwent River up close and personal. The Waterfront is also home to a bunch of good restaurants, bars, and breweries that are all worth a visit, too.

Visit Mount Wellington : No trip to Hobart is complete without a visit to Mount Wellington. Head up to the car park at the mountain’s summit for a ridiculous view of Hobart, Bruny Island, the Tasman Peninsula, and beyond on a clear day. Bring an extra jacket, because it gets chilly!

To Eat: 

Frank Restaurant : a waterfront South American-inspired restaurant, and perfect if you’re a solo traveler because of the window-facing tables! Don’t overlook the sopaipillas. Arguably the simplest thing on the menu, but one of the tastiest.

Mezethes Greek Taverna : located at Salamanca Square, the building this restaurant is housed in is old, with cobblestoned sidewalks leading up to it. It’s charming and super cool, even just looking at it. It gets even better once you taste the food.

Ti Ama : Search ‘pizza in Hobart’ on Google, and for whatever reason, Ti Ama won’t come up. But, the pizza is GOOD, and it’s cooked up in a disco ball pizza oven, so what else do I need to say, really? This place was recommended to me by an employee of the hotel I was staying at, and it was delicious.

To Stay: 

Alabama Hotel: For a cheap place to stay, the Alabama Hotel is probably one of the cheapest in the city. Just know that you will be getting what you pay for (shared restrooms, simple rooms, thin walls). The hotel makes up for this because of its central location (5-10 minute walk to the Waterfront), great conversation, and even better beer and cider selection.

To Drink: 

Hobart Brewing Company : Tasmania makes some great beer. This is one place to try if you’re into beer, and it’s only a quick stroll from the Waterfront.

Gold Bar : Low key, semi-hidden speakeasy with good cocktails. Ask the bartender to create something for you based on your taste preferences.

Institut Polaire : One of many nods you’ll find here to Tasmania’s close proximity to the Antarctic. This Antarctica-inspired bar has cool, minimal decor and delicious gin-based cocktails.

Shambles Brewery : Another tasty brewery with tons of space, but a bit of a younger (college? high school?) crowd.

Day 2: Take a Day Trip to Bruny Island  

Initially, Bruny Island stuck out to me as a must-see because of the unique geography that can be found here: a narrow, long isthmus connecting two parts of this island together. In other words, a photographer’s DREAM destination! But as my luck had it, the parking structure to the isthmus was closed for construction, and I didn’t get to see it at all. Fortunately, Bruny Island has a lot of other things going for it too. Specifically, the island, which is only about an hour outside of Hobart, is a treasure trove of drool-worthy culinary magic. To get there, I took a day tour with Bruny Island Safaris , and as part of the tour, we spent the entire day sampling oysters, fudge, cheese, honey, cider, and more. I don’t like oysters, but I tried my very first one here. I still don’t like them, but the rest of my tour group was in heaven, and many of them went back to buy a bag of oysters by the dozen after the tour, so I guess this is the place to get them! In addition to all the food, we also visited some seriously stunning spots all over the island, including the Bruny Lighthouse and Adventure Bay. Along the way, we ran into dolphins, wallabies, and even a seal. I may not have gotten my isthmus, but Bruny Island overall was sensational, and I don’t think a trip to Tasmania would be complete without giving this place at least one day to explore.

Where I Went*:

(*in case you want to drive it yourself, though I recommend hopping on a tour as you need to take a vehicle ferry to get there, and many of the roads on the island are gravely)

Get Shucked 

Artisan Cheese, Beer, and Bread Cafe

Bruny Island Fudge

Bruny Island Honey

Bruny Hotel

Bruny Lighthouse 

Day 3: Rent a Car to Drive the Tasman Peninsula 

The Tasman Peninsula is a prime example of what I said earlier about there being such a high concentration of things to do and see in Tasmania. Rent a car to drive the Tasman Peninsula , and you’ll find yourself stopping every few minutes to jump out and see something new and epic. Leave early and plan to spend the full day driving around. Some stops only require a few minutes to check out, but others, like Port Arthur, will have you wanting to spend a few hours exploring at minimum. 

Where I Went: 

Pirate’s Bay Drive

Eaglehawk Neck 

Tessellated Pavement

Tasman Arch

Devil’s Kitchen 

Waterfall Bay

Port Arthur

Day 4: Take The Great Eastern Drive up to Freycinet National Park

The Great Eastern Drive is an experience in itself, and worthwhile to check out if you have an extra day (for more info on this, here’s a great driving tour resource ). But, I simply used the drive as a means to an end, to get to the Freycinet National Park. Freycinet is known for its lush, emerald green bush, round, other-worldly orange and red rock formations, wildlife, and beaches. It’s also home to one of the most famous and widely photographed beaches in the world, Wineglass Bay. 

On the way to Freycinet, I stopped for coffee at Arkitect Coffee in Swansea, and for a casual wine tasting at the Craigie Knowe Vineyard . Most cellar doors like Craigie Knowe offer free wine tasting, which was a surprise to me!

Once at Freycinet, here are some stops I highly recommend: 

Wineglass Bay

Cape Tourville Lighthouse

Since the drive up to Freycinet is pretty long (2.5 – 3 hours without stops), you’ll want to stay here for the night. There are a handful of accommodations in Coles Bay near Freycinet, but the only one located inside the Park itself is the Freycinet Lodge , which is where I stayed.

For more info on my stay and why I cannot recommend this hotel enough, check out my full review here . 

Day 5: Drive Back to Hobart to Catch Your Flight 

Day 5, for me, was a travel day. If you stay at the Freycinet Lodge, enjoy a lazy morning in your hotel room eating breakfast in bed and admiring the view of the gorgeous surroundings, because I promise there is nothing else like it in the world. Stroll along the beach or grab a quick coffee in Coles Bay if you have time. I left Freycinet around 9 am in order to catch my 1:15 pm flight to Sydney. 

I know that it’s possible to fall in love with a place in a short amount of time , and Tasmania was no exception. I think it’s safe to say that anyone who visits will be just as obsessed as I was with Tassie’s insane wildlife, other-worldly geography, rich history, and rugged beaches, too. 

Have you been to Tasmania? What was your favorite thing that you did while you were there? If you haven’t been yet, I hope this post has secured Tasmania a spot on your bucket list. 

Read This Next:

Where to Stay in Tasmania: The Freycinet Lodge

How to See Byron Bay in 1 Day

3 of the World’s Most Unique, Remote Hotels You Should Stay In

Pin For Later:

Hey there! I’m Rachel, a travel writer and a full-time advertising / marketing expert. In 2019, I traveled more than 25 times while working 9 to 5, and since then I’ve committed myself to living a more adventurous life, even if it means bringing my laptop along for the ride. Are you hungry to travel more, but overwhelmed with how to juggle work and play? You’ve come to the right place!

Recent Adventures:

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• Updated on: January 1, 2019

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5 Day Tasmania tour – Hobart Return

$ 895.00 – $ 1,645.00

This is one of the most affordable tours around in Tasmania which travels both East and West sides of Tasmania! 5 days of exploring the famous and most interesting places Tasmania has to offer.

You will be visiting fabulous locations where you wouldn’t find travelling yourself while moving at a laid back pace, maximizing your time out of the bus. You won’t miss an opportunity to stop along the way if we happen to spot a Tasmanian Tiger!  The group sizes are small so you won’t feel crowded or lost.

• 4 nights accommodation
• All National Park entry fees
• Guided walks (free-walking options possible)
• Motel and hostel pickup and drop off

**Private rooms must be booked in multiples of 2**

“These tours are in small groups and include some meals, you’ll get to places you wouldn’t dream of finding if you travelled on your own. Tasmania’s amazing and you really need to get out and see it to believe it!” – Liz – One Stop Adventures Travel Expert. 

Description

• Other Information
• Wineglass Bay
• Bay of Fires
• Montezuma falls
• Cradle Mountain
• Henty Dunes
• Lake St Clair
• Russell Falls
• National Park entry fees
• Eco-certified tour
• A enthusiastic and experienced tour guide
• Free pick-ups and drop-offs from hostels and motels

DAY 1: HOBART to STRAHAN

Our journey begins as we traverse the island from east to west. Leaving Hobart through the Derwent Valley, we walk in the land of the giants and admire the beauty of Russell Falls and Mt Field National Park. Visit Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake. Enter the temperate time capsule that is the Franklin-Gordon Wild River National Park. End the day in Strahan beside Macquarie Harbour.

Overnight:  Strahan

DAY 2: WILD WEST COAST

Join your guide as we venture into the untouched wilderness of Tasmania’s West Coast. Travelling along the coast from the seaside town of Strahan, we explore the shifting sands of Henty Dunes before continuing into the Tarkine Rainforest and walking to Tasmania’s highest waterfall – Montezuma Falls. Alternatively, there is also the option today of joining the world famous cruise on the Gordon River. This scenic cruise provides a great way to explore the rich history and scenic beauty of Macquarie Harbour and the Gordon River (optional cruise at own expense).

Overnight:  Strahan

DAY 3: CRADLE MOUNTAIN to LAUNCESTON

We journey to 950m above sea level to the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Claire National Park. We share some local knowledge and interpretation of the landscape to help you choose a walk that will enhance your experience here. With an extensive range of tracks, you will be able to take it easy with a stroll around Dove Lake and one of the many boardwalks or perhaps challenge yourself with a hike to Marion’s Lookout. A short drive to Sheffield, the ‘town of murals’, before continuing onto Launceston, Australia’s third oldest city.

Overnight: Launceston

DAY 4: LAUNCESTON to BICHENO

Enjoy a morning walk at Cataract Gorge in the heart of Launceston before we make our way to the East Coast and the beautiful Bay of Fires. Here you can stretch your legs with some quality time to enjoy this highly recommended coastal region (a Lonely Planet favourite). The beaches are gleaming and the water inviting. Perhaps a swim (whether permitting)? Enjoy Tasmania’s most scenic coastal drive from St Helens to Bicheno. This evening you can join a guided viewing of the Little Penguins (optional at own expense & seasonal) as they return to their rookeries on the edge of this seaside village.

Overnight: Bicheno

DAY 5: FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK to HOBART

An early start means we are the first to the lookout, beating the crowds and the heat for that postcard photo of Wineglass Bay. Relax on the secluded beach or choose the more challenging Mt Amos or Hazards Beach walk. This afternoon, we take a break at a picturesque village and check out a local convict-built bridge. Come face-to-face with the iconic Tassie Devil as we make a stop at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to meet these endangered native animals, as well as some other unique to Tasmania. A short drive returns us to Hobart.

Hobart at 7:00am Sundays (all year round) and Tuesdays (from October to April)

Hobart at 5:30pm

What to bring?

• Water bottle
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm and cool clothing
• Rain- and/or wind jacket
• Towel and bathers

Backpack of suitcase up to a maximum of 20kg

Note : we require a minimum of 2 people for accommodation upgrades.

Accommodation upgrades are subject to availability.

Related Tasmania Tours

Bruny Island Day Tour

Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park Active Day Trip

Mt Wellington Summit, Mt Field and Bonorong Wildlife Park

Cradle Mountain Day Tour from Hobart

Perfect 5 Day Tasmania Itinerary From Launceston To Hobart

Have you not been to Tassie yet, and looking for a 5 day Tasmania itinerary from Launceston? With epic landscapes and home to Australia’s number 1 hike, you could spend weeks exploring the best things to do in Tasmania. We went back in 2014, just before Londoner In Sydney was born, and alas… we are itching to get back!

Luckily, our new expat writer, Hannah Norman from UK is sharing her first time experience in Tasmania. Originally from Stafford, she swapped UK for the beaches of Coogee in Sydney. Having moved to Australia just before the pandemic started, she is trying to explore as much of this wonderful country as possible. Make sure you follow her adventures on Instagram at @hannie_norm .

Here’s her awesome Tasmania itinerary for you to make notes and form your own trip. Although she flew to Launceston, it is only a 2h30m drive to Hobart. You can easily switch this itinerary around if you’re flying to Hobart instead. In this Tasmania road trip itinerary, she ticks off the most popular places to visit in Tasmania.

Table of Contents

Best Time To Visit Tasmania

I had been told that the best time to visit Tasmania is during Australian Winter, but instead we visited during Christmas time instead. Tasmania is noticeably cooler than Sydney and was between 10 -15 degrees most days, so much sure you bring some winter clothing with you.

With it being a La Nina year it rained every evening, but any showers in the day cleared quickly. I would suggest bringing plenty of layers and waterproof clothing (particularly if visiting Cradle Mountain and Mount Wellington) as well as all the usual warm weather essentials as the weather is very changeable in the National Park.

How To Get To Tasmania From Sydney

When flying from Sydney to Tasmania the flight is about 2 hours. Upon arrival into Launceston airport, it is easy to pick up a car as the airport is small. We had pre booked a car from RentalCars.com which was $350 for five days. I would strongly recommend hiring a car as it is the most cost effective and efficient way to get around and reach the best places in Tasmania. From what we saw, public transport outside of the big cities is extremely limited.

Need To Hire A Car?

Don’t miss out on this hidden gem.

If you don’t have a car, don’t worry you can still visit this hidden gem! Check our go to car hire company in Australia to get to discover this place.

Bring Cold Weather Clothing

Before you plan your trip to Tasmania, obviously make sure you bring cold weather clothing year round. Bear in mind that cafes and restaurants typically open later and close earlier than those in Sydney, so it is worth being aware of that when planning your Tasmania road trip. Early morning coffee walks might not always be possible. Just to note I was visiting during a time of low tourist demand due to Covid, which may have altered opening hours.

Day 1: Explore Launceston & Waterfalls

Day 1 morning: launceston, city park and bridestowe lavender fields.

When you arrive in Launceston, your first thought is likely to be that it is a small and cosy town. I would highly recommend Sweetbrew for some very tasty and equally affordable veggie brunch options to kick off the trip and your Tasmania itinerary. Wandering through the town there are all the usual high street shops as well as some unique boutique shops. We stumbled across the Harvest Market which is held every Saturday and sells a selection of local produce along with hosting a wide range of food stall. It’s definitely worth checking out if you have time.

I would also suggest stopping by City Park where you can see some 20+ Japanese macques monkeys. It is a free monkey enclosure and great for kids although adults were enjoying it too! The Macques were a gift from Lauceston’s sister city Ikeda City in Japan.

By mid morning continue your Tasmania itinerary by heading over to the Bridestowe Lavender Fields. If it is a clear sunny day wander through the purple fields of lavender and soak up the scent. The specially made lavender flavoured ice cream is very much worth it and probably the most purple looking ice cream you will ever try! We spent a couple of hours there and you can choose to do some guided tours if you want to learn more about the lavender.

Day 1 Lunch: Evandale and Liffey Falls

Drive back through Evandale and stop for lunch at the beautiful Ingleside Bakery Cafe . All the plants in the traditional courtyard reminded me of the UK, and the cakes are delicious!

In the afternoon it is worth a trip to the less well known Liffey Falls. It is a gentle 45 minute round stroll through a wooded area and you will get to see some beautiful waterfalls. There is also a huge tree imaginatively sign posted as the ‘Big Tree’.

Cataract Gorge is also worth a visit. Keep your eye out for the peacocks and kangaroos roaming freely together. If you are prepared and the weather is favourable it is worth considering the BBQs at the Gorge as it is a very picturesque setting and has a swimming pool in the centre with stunning views.

Day 1 Dinner: Palki Indian Restaurant In Launceston

If you fancy something warm and hearty located in central Launceston, check out Palki Indian Restaurant – a good casual dinner option as you adjust to the slightly cooler and potentially damper Tasmanian climate.

Day 2: Spend The Day At Cradle Mountain-Lake St Claire National Park

Grab an early breakfast from Launceston and head to Cradle Mountain National Park, a must visit on any Tasmania itinerary. It takes 2h30m from Launceston, but it’s definitely worth the trip as the scenery is stunning, even by Tasmanian standards.

When you arrive at Lake St Claire National Park, catch the shuttle bus to get to the starting point of the various hiking trails and to Cradle Mountain itself. The bus stops off at three places: Waldheim, Ronny Creek and Dove Lake.

Things to know about Cradle Mountain walks: the shuttle bus leaves every 20 minutes and you can hop on and off as many times as you like. You must buy a National Parks pass before you can take the bus at Lake St Claire National Park. You can either buy it online or at the visitor centre at the park.

There is also a small cafe at the visitors centre selling hot drinks and sandwiches if you need something to fuel the hikes.

Cradle Mountain Walks To Choose

Whilst the number 1 best walk in Australia is the Overland Track in Tasmania, this 65km hike takes 6 days to complete through Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Seeing as this post is a 5 day Tasmania itinerary, I recommend one of the shorter Cradle Mountain walks to consider below, which won’t take more than a few hours to complete. Whilst there are 12 Cradle Mountain hikes to choose from, these are the following I personally did.

The Most Popular Cradle Mountains walk Dove Lake Circuit 6km // 3hrs

Dove Lake Circuit is the most popular of the Cradle Mountain walks to go on! Head on the Dove Lake walk if you want some close up views of Cradle Mountain without actually climbing it. If you are lucky enough the clouds will clear and you’ll be able to see the peaks of Cradle Mountain. It is a fairly easy circuit walk that takes 3-4 hours and the path is board walks for the majority of the way around.

There are no eating options around Dove Lake so a picnic and plenty of water is a must. There is the perfect picnic stop about 3/4 of the way around with stunning views if you follow the loop clockwise.

Lake Lilla Walk 40minutes

Another walk I would recommend is the Lake Lilla walk. If you go in the mid to late afternoon you are likely to see some wild wombats. This was a personal highlight for me as it was my first time seeing them. They are unlike any other creature I had ever seen and much bigger than expected.

Enchanted Walk 1.2km // 30 minutes

The only other Cradle Mountain National Park walk we had time to do was the Enchanted Walk. This was principally designed for kids and was very easy but we did it on the hunt for spotting some wild kangaroos and were not disappointed.

If you’re interested in climbing to the Cradle Mountain summit, it’s a 6hr return and 10 to 12km.

Looking for more epic hikes in Australia? Read all about our visit to the insanely amazing Carnarvon Gorge

Day 2 Dinner: Prickly Cactus In Launceston

End day two of your Tasmania itinerary by either camping in the National Park or nearby. With it being around Christmas there was no availability for us to stay overnight. We headed back to Launceston and stopped for food at the Prickly Cactus which did nice tacos and margaritas.

Day 3: Visit Freycinet National Park

On day three of your Tasmania itinerary, start the day in the quirky Samuel Pepys café in Launceston. The café is decorated with spoons and is known for its wide selection of gluten free breakfast options. It has a brilliant atmosphere and is a perfect local experience to try whilst in Launceston.

Soon after breakfast, hit the road and head onwards to Freycinet National Park – referred to as the jewel of Tasmania’s eastern coastline. It takes about two hours to get there from Launceston and is a very picturesque drive. For those who like a wine, stop at Devil’s Corner Winery en-route to do some wine tasting and take in the views of the rolling hills of grapes. It was a hidden gem with a view point tower and also eating options alongside the winery.

If you have time before you reach Freycinet National Park you can stop at Bicheno – a small town on the coast. If you go at dusk you can watch the fairy penguins wander up to their burrows and there is also a blowhole which you can see in action when there is a swell.

Pick up some supplies for a picnic en-route as upon arrival into the Freycinet National Park there are not many options in the immediate National Park area. The National Park is famous for Wineglass Bay – a Bay shaped similar to a wine glass. You can hike Mount Amos – this is the most difficult option but has fantastic views on a clear day (don’t do this if it had been raining as it had been for us). An alternative option is the Wineglass Bay Lookout path. This would take about 2 hours to get to the lookout point and get down to Wineglass Bay beach itself.

Afternoon Hike To Hazards Beach

We took the option to continue to Hazards Beach after lunch and do the full 11km loop return back to the car park. This is a Grade 4 walk that takes 4 hours and is challenging in places but you are treated to white sand, crystal clear waters, woodland and stretching views of Great Oyster Bay. There are also plenty of options to stop for a picnic with a swim at Hazard’s beach after doing the climb and descent from Wineglass Bay lookout highly recommended.

Day 3 Dinner: Kathmandu Cuisine In Hobart

We were staying in Battery Point in Hobart for the final two nights of the trip and so headed to Hobart for dinner which takes about 2.5 hours from Freycinet National Park. If you like Nepalese food or are curious about Nepalese food, I would recommend Kathmandu Cuisine in Battery Point. The food is great and prices are reasonable with an authentic atmosphere and Nepalese beers on offer.

If you don’t fancy the drive back to Hobart and want to stay nearer Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay and Bicheno are other options to consider although they are smaller than Hobart so would have less options for dinner.

Day 4: Spend The Day At Port Arthur

If you are not starting too early head to Ginger Brown on the Southside for a Hobart breakfast. The menu is seasonal and the coffee is good!

Port Arthur is located 1.5 hours south east of Hobart and the main reason people visit the area is to visit the Port Arthur Historic Site, now listed on the UNESCO world heritage list. You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy this, it is one of the most interesting places to visit in Tasmania. The site is open between 10am – 5pm each day and you can easily spend half a day here.

There is a large outdoor site of over 100 acres and over 30 buildings that you can explore. A 45 minute guided walking tour is included as part of your entrance ticket and is a must if you want to understand why Port Arthur has such national and international significance. It was more than just a prison for over 2,000 convicts and developed into a full community of military and non-prisoners becoming a major industrial settlement .

Also included in your ticket is a harbour cruise tour which takes about 20 minutes and circles the Point Puer Boys Prison and Isle of the Dead. There is a small outlet on the boat selling snacks and drinks. You can also opt for the visitor site cafe which offers light meals, cakes and snacks.

In case of wet weather it is not all outdoors – there is the Port Arthur Gallery which is included in the entrance fee and has interactive exhibitions so you can learn more about Port Arthur and its history. If you have more time there are also a few other tours that would be worth looking into.

You can do a Port Arthur Ghost tour and an Escape from Port Arthur tour as well as a Prison and Power Tour which is a performance showcasing life for both convicts and guards in the 1800’s.

Spend The Afternoon On A Road Trip Back To Hobart

On the way back from Port Arthur to Hobart you can make a number of stops to break up the journey and visit, Tasmans Arch, Tasman Bay National Park Lookout and the blowhole at Pirates Bay. These are all lookout points so you don’t need long at each but they provide good photo opportunities.

Day 4 Dinner: At Victoria Dock

Head for dinner at one of the many restaurants around Victoria Dock on the edge of Central Hobart. Craving something hearty after a long day exploring Port Arthur Billy’s Burgers did not disappoint. If you are after something a bit more gourmet Dier Makr had been recommended to me although due to Covid it is currently only opening on Fridays and Saturdays so we didn’t have the opportunity to experience it.

Day 5: Spend The Final Day In Hobart

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and the most well known city on the island. It is worth spending a day here to add onto your Tasmania itinerary. I would suggest starting with some spectacular views from Mount Wellington.

You can hike it (takes a 5+ hours and is challenging) or you can drive which takes 30 minutes from Hobart. We also noticed that there is a shuttle bus which drops people off from the centre of Hobart. The view is nothing short of spectacular, although brace yourself for the brisk cool winds at the top which took many others by surprise.

When looking for lunch in Hobart, head to Jackman & McRoss . It is an excellent bakery with pastries, breakfast, coffee and pies. Most famous for their pies, we tried the scallop pie which is a unique Tasmanian pie and it was delicious!

Check Out Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery & MONA

You can wander the streets of Hobart, do some shopping and check out the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. This was free entry at the time of visiting and was surprisingly good. There were many interesting exhibitions and we wish we had more time to explore this. The centre of Hobart is easy to walk around and if you have chance the botanical gardens are worth checking out.

MONA was still closed for refurbishment when we were visiting so whilst rated one of the best things to do in Hobart, unfortunately we were not able to experience it. Based on what I have heard, it is definitely a must see so make sure you check it out once it reopens in early 2021.

Day 5 Dinner: Peacock and Jones In Hobart

There are plenty of dinner options in Hobart, but watch out if you are visiting earlier in the week as some only open Thursday – Sunday. Peacock and Jones on the waterfront was a hidden gem offering traditional Tasmanian food using local ingredients.

If you want to celebrate the end of your trip with some drinks head to The Glass House . This elegant-yet-casual floating bar attracts locals and tourists. The Glass House overlooks the Derwent River from Sullivan’s Cove and has a wide range of cocktails.

The airport is located about 30 minutes from central Hobart. There is no public transport connection but it is a small airport and easy to drop any hire car off, completing the amazing Tasmania itinerary!

Tasmania is a wonderful part of the world. Whilst we only spent 5 days there we could have easily spent much longer, and I hope to go back and explore the West coast at some point in the future.

A big thank you to Hannah for sharing her first time 5 day Tasmania itinerary! If you would like to share your adventures on Londoner In Sydney, simply fill out our Write For Us Form and we’ll get back to you asap.

5 Days In Tasmania Itinerary From Launceston

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so informative.such great infomation

Thanks for the itinerary! Looking for a five day tour ourselves for April 2024. One thing I wish is that you had food recommendations for the 99% of us who don’t have Celiac Disease and therefore get no benefit from gluten free foods!

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Tasmania Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Tasmania. We've got 96 trips going to Tasmania, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 16 days. The most popular month to go is November, which has the most tour departures.

96 Tasmania tour packages with 304 reviews

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Famous 5 - 5 day Tour of Tasmania

This tour was amazing! We fit so much of Tasmania in 5 days. I met so many lovely people and now have some great memories. Our tour guide Natalie was so fun and made sure we got the most out of our experience.

• €65 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Super 7 - Seven Day Tour of Tasmania

A wonderful experience not only seeing and appreciating the beauty of the land but its geographical, historical, environmental and cultural significance to the world. Tasmania is a very special place

The BIG 3 Tasmania - Launceston to Hobart

The planning of the three days is very well done. Despite there being a reasonable amount of time on the road, they broke it up well with several very nice short stops for food or views. The planning between groups is also well done (for the changeover from the Launceston group to the Hobart group). I had three different guides for each of the three days. All were excellent which shows how good the company is.

The BIG 3 Tasmania - Hobart to Launceston

I enjoyed having Audrey as my guide from Hobart to Wineglass Bay. Whereas Graeme, my guide from Wineglass Bay to Launceston is very impatient with his driving. Although Graeme is very knowledgeable, some times he is hard to approach.

Tasmania's Tarkine & Cradle Mountain Explorer

We visited some amazing locations, the tour guide was great. I had lots of fun. I did feel that the first day was a bit rushed in the sense that we travelled to 7 different locations and we had 5-10 minutes to take photos after travelling 20-40 minutes then we had to get on the bus to get to the next location. With the exception of the Nut and Narawntapu National Park. I feel it would have been better to just visit 4 or 5 locations on the first day and spend some time at each place. I also would have loved to stay at a lodge/hotel near or in Cradle mountain on the final night to spend more time in the beautiful scenery of cradle mountain.

Hobart & Southern Tasmania Explorer

Very enjoyable with a great guide

Tasmania Hobart & Launceston All-Inclusive Grand 10 Days Touring Package

Eli was a huge help to me when I was in Tasmania. She constantly responded to my messages and kept me informed about what was coming up on my schedule. Those who are traveling alone or don't want to complete the itinerary themselves should take this tour. Highly recommended!

Hackathon Adventure - Price Alert

Please decline. Test review.

Tassie's East Coast Highlights (5 Days)

Not enough time at Port Arthur, I advise not to do the boat trip included it's a waste of precious time, also the guide in Port Arthur very well informed but again to time consuming as you only got limited time to RUN to see everything, which is so unfortunate.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Walking Adventure
• Coach / Bus
• In-depth Cultural

Tassie's Wilderness Icons (6 Days)

This is such a great trip for those who want to see as much of the West Coast of Tasmania as possible within a few days. I loved it as my introduction to Tassie. I definitely got a taste of it all so I'm now keen to get back and explore deeper. There was a lot included so the value is incredible.

Wilderness and Whisky Walks

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Perfect Tasmania (13 Days)

Tassie's Parks & Nature (7 Days)

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Tasmania Unveiled

What people love about tasmania tours.

This tour was absolutely fantastic. We were able to squeeze in and see so much of Tasmania’s natural beauty! Our tour guide Hayden was amazing - cool, calm and knowledgeable! I was overjoyed when he helped us spot some platypus in their natural environment. Whilst on the bus itself he shared heaps of information and fun facts to keep us entertained. There is a lot of early starts - which is totally fair enough since it meant we could enjoy so much of what Tasmania has to offer. There is a lot of walking - but there are many choices of walks to do, so you can chose the level of difficulty in most places and all walks are optional. One of my favourite trips in Australia so far ?

The three day tour was well organised and everything worked as promised. The only issue was that day three was overloaded not allowing enough time at the Unzoo and Port Arthur, the final visit to Richmond was unnecessary the time would have been spent at the visits earlier in the day. Overall the tour represented value for money and allowed me to see the highlights of Tasmania in a planned and stress free way. .

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Watch CBS News

Five Boro Bike Tour takes over NYC. Here's why over 32,000 cyclists from around the world rode 40 miles.

By Kristie Keleshian , Zinnia Maldonado

Updated on: May 5, 2024 / 8:59 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK --  New York City's Five Boro Bike Tour is the largest charitable bike ride in the United States. It starts in Manhattan, then covers 40 miles across the five boroughs to end on Staten Island. 

Five Boro Bike Tour route map

The first wave of cyclists started at 7:30 a.m. from the intersection of Franklin and Church Street in Tribeca. The last wave left at 10:25 a.m.

The route then heads up into the Bronx, over to Queens, back down to Brooklyn and ends at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island, where riders can then catch a ferry back to Manhattan.   

"It's 40 miles and I enjoy every minute of it," said Anthony Maynard, from Columbia, South Carolina. 

"It was a great destination and it was a tour, not a race, so we thought that it would be a first thing for us. We are not cyclists, so we've trained some," Nichole Muller, of Texas, said at the starting line. 

Many riders arrived Saturday to pick up their bibs and to attend the annual blessing of the bikes. 

"One of the reasons people come here, certainly not the only reason, but one of the reasons is people are aware of how dangerous this is, riding a bike in New York, and they come to pray for their own safety and ask us to pray with them for their own safety," said Patrick Malloy, Dean of Cathedral St. Catherine of the Divine. 

There is no official end time, but most riders should be done by the evening. 

"We're riding a tandem bike together, so that will be interesting just to take it to another level. We practiced yesterday in Central Park, we're good New York, we're good," added Meredith Mitsifer, of Arizona. "This is going to be amazing, I can't wait to see New York in a whole different way."

Cycling for a cause

The Five Boro Bike Tour represents all ages and abilities. 

"It feels like a microcosm of the world," said Bike New York President and CEO Ken Podziba. 

More than 32,000 cyclists take part in the charity ride, which raises money for Bike New York's free bike education programs. The nonprofit teaches children and adults how to ride, as well as bike safety.

"I'm riding on behalf of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation," said Steve Shiffman, whose wife has cystic fibrosis. 

"We wanted to bring awareness to ovarian cancer," said Nicole Moler, with the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition in Dallas, Texas. 

Participants from around the world say the event is a rare chance to explore the city in this way.

"I think a lot of people that maybe are not familiar with the city, they think of New York as just Manhattan, but there's so much more to New York, and I think doing it on a bike is probably the most unique way you can possibly do it," said Will Stafford, from Virginia.

Five Boro Bike Tour road closures

Of course, the bike tour also meant street, bridge and tunnel closures for drivers across the city. 

The Staten Island-bound lower level of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge was closed from 2 a.m. to 7 p.m. The upper level remained open in both directions. 

The Robert F. Kennedy Bridge exit ramp to the southbound FDR Drive closed from 7:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. The approach from the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel to the westbound Gowanus/Brooklyn Queens Expressway closed from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

See the full list of road closures here.

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Five Boro Bike Tour route map & street closures for 2024

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Hundreds of bicyclists are blessed at nyc church ahead of 5 boro bike tour on sunday.

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Hundreds of bicyclists packed the Cathedral of St. John the Divine Saturday morning to have their rides blessed before they embark on a 40-mile journey through the city for the 5 Boro Bike Tour Sunday.

Rev. Patrick Malloy led the 26th annual non-denominational service at the Morningside Heights cathedral. Riders, many in helmets and racing gear, gathered alongside their bikes to be splashed with holy water.

The cathedral welcomes bikers, skaters, scooter-riders and “users of self-propelled vehicles” of all ages to take part in the ceremony.

One woman even juggled atop a unicycle, while another rolled up on a Citi Bike.

“This is a great day,” Malloy told reporters outside the church.

“People come from all over the world. They bring so much good energy to us, so much warmth,” he said.

“Maybe the energy comes from the fact that they’re also athletic.”

The service also honored bicyclists and pedestrians killed in the past year. Bagpipes were played as a white “ ghost bike ” symbolizing those killed was rolled down the aisle.

The city Department of Transportation set up tents outside the church and fitted riders for free.

About 32,000 people will cycle 40 miles across the Big Apple starting at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, beginning in Lower Manhattan and looping through the boroughs, crossing the Queensboro, Pulaski and Verrazzano-Narrows bridges to end in Staten Island’s Fort Wadsworth Park.

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Taylor Pendrith enjoys 'unreal' maiden TOUR win at THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson

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McKINNEY, Texas — The sun broke loose at last over THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson. It shined directly on Taylor Pendrith.

After a wrenching sequence of holes that saw his one-shot lead tied on the 16 th and lost on the 17 th , the 32-year-old Canadian holed a short putt for birdie Sunday at the par-5 finisher to win his first PGA TOUR title in 74 starts. He shot a final-round 67 to finish at 23-under par on a steamy, soggy TPC Craig Ranch and beat Ben Kohles by one.

Pendrith held the lead of much of the day, which dawned with threatening clouds after 1.9 inches of rain fell overnight.

He lost that lead at the par-4 eighth, when he made bogey and Kohles made birdie. That was about the time the sun appeared for the first time. Minutes later, Pendrith two-putted for birdie on the par-5 ninth; Kohles made par. They were tied at the turn, with names like Jake Knapp, Matt Wallace, Alex Noren and Aaron Rai close behind.

Taylor Pendrith’s bunker birdie is the Shot of the Day

Forecasters expected more rain — typical for North Texas in May. But none fell. The air at times was nearly still, a rare occurrence at the annual springtime affair bearing the name of one of the greatest competitors in the history of tournament golf. After three days of spitting mist and overcast skies, the final nine holes were airy and bright.

The other contenders faded late. Not Pendrith or Kohles. Pendrith holed gritty putts for par at the par-4 16 th and the par-3 17 th , holes Kohles birdied. But Kohles mismanaged a short greenside shot from deep rough on the last, then missed the 5-foot par putt that would’ve forced a playoff.

Pendrith said it happened so fast, going from thinking he had to make eagle to tie to steeling himself over a 3-footer to win. He banged it home.

“It was all a blur, the last hour,” Pendrith said. “To finally get it done feels unbelievable.”

At about the time Pendrith was marking his ball on the last green, his friend Mackenzie Hughes loped from the locker room with three cans of cold Miller Lite in his grasp. Pendrith’s friend, fellow countryman and former teammate at Kent State made his way through the crowd to watch the long-awaited triumph. He gave the beverages to Pendrith (although he did pour a little on Pendrith's shirt first in celebration) and his caddie, and kept one for himself.

“This is a weird game we play,” Hughes said. “I’m guessing Taylor thought the same thing. He was there, ready for the opportunity.”

It was a gesture he felt he owed Pendrith. When Hughes was in contention at the 2016 RSM Classic, Pendrith got up early and drove four hours to watch. Hughes won.

“He needs to go enjoy it,” said Hughes, a two-time TOUR winner. “They’re few and far between.”

Taylor Pendrith’s Round 4 winning highlights from THE CJ CUP

The win means 500 FedExCup points for Pendrith, vaulting him 57 spots to 34 th in the rankings. He won $1.7 million and a two-year exemption. It means he and his wife Megan, who planned on a beach getaway next week, have to sort travel to Charlotte for the Wells Fargo Championship, a Signature Event. Everything has changed.

“I've held the 54-hole lead before and haven't got it done,” Pendrith said. “Learned a lot from that and tried to be a little better today and stay in my own lane and just put my head down and go to work. To come out on top feels unreal.”

He made a tough, snaking putt on the 17 th to stay a shot behind Kohles. Both players hit good drives on the 18 th . Only Pendrith found the green in two. Kohles didn’t accelerate enough through his own putt — “You live and learn,” he said — and the stakes swung back to Pendrith.

The putt for birdie was longer than he wanted. He breathed deep and steadied himself over the ball. He tried not to think of how much it mattered.

“This is the straightest putt you’ve had all year,” his caddie told him. “Just knock it in.”

Pendrith didn’t used to consider mental fortitude a strength. But he said he’d been seeing a mental coach for about six weeks, “just working on acceptance.” He reminded himself of their work as he settled over the career-changing putt. Moments later, he was being cheered by the gallery. His wife and young son, Hayes, were trotting out to meet him for a hug.

“We were supposed to be going to Myrtle Beach,” Megan Pendrith said. “Now we have to figure out how we’re going to get to Charlotte and where we’re going to stay.”

She caught herself and smiled.

“All wonderful problems,” she said.

The next hour was another blur. Pendrith participated in his first trophy presentation. He did his first interviews as a TOUR winner. He shook a lot of hands. He had another beer.

“Doesn’t feel real yet,” he said.

“You know, it feels unbelievable, and to see some of those names on this trophy, it's crazy,” Pendrith said. “I still can't believe that I'm a winner of this tournament.”

A college is hosting a sold-out Taylor Swift masterclass for parents ahead of the star's UK tour

• A UK college is running a crash course on all things Taylor Swift ahead of her UK tour.
• The one-day course is aimed at parents and plus ones of Swifties.
• The college says the course will provide "the full Love Story on all things Eras Tour."

A college in Scotland is running a crash course on all things Taylor Swift ahead of the pop star's UK leg of her Eras Tour .

The one-day course held by Glasgow Clyde College is aimed at parents and plus-ones of Swifties set to attend the singer's three-night stopover in Edinburgh.

The college says the course will provide "the full Love Story on all things Eras Tour to help them have the best night of their lives."

"From set lists and crowd chants to need-to-know information on each Era, the course, which is being delivered by a Taylor Swift expert, will give members of the public a whistle-stop lesson that'll leave them ready for the gig," the college says on its website.

The Eras Tour, which has already become the highest-grossing tour of all time, pays tribute to Swift's first 10 studio albums and the unique styles and staging that accompanied them.

The release of the singer's 11th studio album, "The Tortured Poets Department," in April could mean that the setlist will change from previous legs of the tour, however — but the college seems likely to have that covered.

Glasgow Clyde College assistant principal Robert Anderson told local media outlet The Scotsman : "Taylor mania doesn't seem to be slowing anytime soon, and we expect it'll reach its peak here in Scotland in June. We understand that not everyone will be up to speed on all things Taylor and might not get the full Eras experience," he said.

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"That's why we created this masterclass - to prepare those who'll be heading along to the gig with their superfan kids, friends or partners to ensure they have just as memorable a time," he continued. "Taylor's gigs are known for being so well crafted, and unless you're a fan yourself, you might miss some of the iconic moments."

The course is due to be held on May 7, one month before Swift kicks off her UK tour.

European cities could benefit from Swift's tour

Swift is taking her Eras Tour to 18 European cities this summer , and many are hoping Swifties will splash the cash as they arrive.

The tour has already boosted the US, Singaporean, and Australian economies, with eager fans spending big on things like travel, accommodation, and merchandise.

While the UK and the rest of Europe have yet to feel the full effect of Swift's presence, the price of hotels and short-term rental homes across Scotland have shot up as opportunistic hoteliers and rental hosts have sought to take advantage of increased demand for accommodation.

Around 200,000 people are expected to attend across the star's three performances at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh.

Marc Crothall, chief executive of the Scottish Tourism Alliance, told Business Insider that there would be a "ripple effect" from the shows that will be felt across Scotland.

"We're a small country. It's important that those who are coming from further afield, don't just go straight back to where they came from," he said, adding that they would hopefully go and visit some other parts of Scotland.

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