Framed by the majestic Mount Wellington and the sparkling waters of the Derwent River, Hobart is a city that blends old-world charm with a distinctly modern creative edge. As Australia's southernmost capital, Hobart may be small in size, but it punches well above its weight in culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. 

Whether you're seeking a romantic weekend away, a girls' escape filled with art and indulgence, or a family holiday that balances history with adventure, Hobart offers an unforgettable mix of serenity and sophistication.

A City of Art, Heritage, and Imagination

No trip to Hobart is complete without visiting its most famous attraction, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). This world-renowned museum, carved dramatically into the cliffs of the Berriedale Peninsula, is as much an architectural wonder as it is an artistic experience. Inside, you'll find provocative and thought-provoking exhibitions that challenge convention and inspire conversation, perfect for travellers who love art with attitude. 

The museum's ferry from the Hobart waterfront is an experience in itself, offering stunning river views before delivering visitors directly to MONA's subterranean entrance.

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG), located near the waterfront, tells the story of Tasmania's fascinating natural, colonial, and Aboriginal heritage. From artefacts of the state's convict era to displays on the extinct Tasmanian Tiger, TMAG provides a deeper appreciation of the island's identity.

History also comes alive at the Cascade Female Factory, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site that sheds light on the lives of female convicts transported to Tasmania in the 19th century. Its guided tours are both haunting and moving " an essential experience for those interested in women's history and resilience.

Salamanca and the Waterfront: Hobart's Beating Heart

The Salamanca Market, held every Saturday at Salamanca Place, is one of Australia's most loved outdoor markets. Against a backdrop of historic sandstone warehouses, more than 300 stalls burst with local produce, handmade jewellery, art, and gourmet treats. From leather goods to lavender soaps and artisan cheeses, it's the perfect spot for a leisurely morning stroll with friends, coffee in hand and live music drifting through the air.

Afterwards, wander through the adjacent Salamanca Arts Centre, home to galleries, craft studios, and independent boutiques. Here, you can discover one-of-a-kind fashion and homewares designed by local creators.

Just a few steps away lies Hobart's vibrant waterfront, centred around Constitution Dock. During summer, the area hums with activity as fishing boats unload their catch and yachts glide across the water. The many restaurants and bars here,  including favourites like The Glass House and Aloft, are perfect for long lunches or sunset cocktails overlooking the Derwent.

History and Heritage Trails

To truly appreciate Hobart's heritage, take a walk through Battery Point, one of the city's oldest suburbs. Its winding streets, colonial cottages, and flower-filled gardens make it a photographer's dream. Follow the Battery Point Sculpture Trail, which winds from Salamanca Place to the River Derwent, marked by interpretive artworks that share tales of the city's past.

History buffs will also appreciate the Hobart Convict Penitentiary, a fascinating and eerie site offering daytime and nightly ghost tours. Its preserved cells, chapel, and underground tunnels tell vivid stories of those who lived and suffered within its walls.

Another heritage gem is the Cascade Brewery, nestled at the foot of Mount Wellington. Established in 1824, it's Australia's oldest operating brewery. Visitors can tour its historic buildings, learn about traditional brewing methods, and enjoy a tasting paddle in its picturesque gardens.

Nature and the Great Outdoors

Hobart's natural setting is one of its greatest assets. Towering above the city is Mount Wellington (Kunanyi), which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Derwent River, Bruny Island, and beyond. The drive to the summit takes about 30 minutes, or for the more adventurous, there are hiking and cycling trails that wind through lush forest and alpine landscapes.

At the base of the mountain lies the Cascades Track, a gentle walking trail that follows the Hobart Rivulet, perfect for a morning stroll.

For a more leisurely day outdoors, visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, one of the oldest in the southern hemisphere. Established in 1818, the gardens are home to over 6,000 species, including the world's only Subantarctic Plant House, which recreates the icy conditions of Macquarie Island.

Island Adventures and Wildlife Encounters

A short drive and ferry ride from Hobart will take you to Bruny Island, a paradise of windswept beaches, rugged cliffs, and gourmet local produce. Join a Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise for a chance to spot seals, dolphins, and seabirds along the dramatic coastline. Back on land, sample local oysters, cheeses, and chocolates at family-run farms and roadside stalls.

Closer to the city, the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary offers intimate encounters with Tasmania's unique native animals, including Tasmanian devils, wombats, kangaroos, and quolls. As a conservation and rehabilitation centre, it provides a meaningful way to support local wildlife while learning about ongoing preservation efforts.

Dining and Nightlife

Tasmania's reputation for fine produce shines brightly in Hobart's dining scene. Whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner, a gourmet feast, or relaxed riverside dining, there's something to suit every taste.

For a culinary highlight, book a table at Templo, a tiny neighbourhood restaurant known for its exquisite yet straightforward Italian-inspired dishes made from local ingredients. Franklin Restaurant, housed in a converted warehouse, celebrates contemporary Tasmanian flavours in a stylish, minimalist setting. Meanwhile, Peacock and Jones, located in an old jam factory on the waterfront, is perfect for couples seeking a romantic ambience and an exceptional wine list.

For something casual yet equally delicious, Jackman & McRoss Bakery in Battery Point is famous for its freshly baked pastries, and Machine Laundry Café in Salamanca Square is a local brunch favourite.

When the sun goes down, Lark Distillery is a must-visit for whisky lovers, offering tastings of Tasmania's award-winning single malts. Alternatively, unwind with a cocktail at Gold Bar, where talented mixologists craft creative drinks in a stylish yet relaxed setting.

Shopping with Character

Hobart's shopping scene reflects its artistic personality. In addition to Salamanca's creative boutiques, head to the Cat and Fiddle Arcade in the CBD for fashion, accessories, and local designer brands. For unique handmade pieces, the Henry Jones Art Hotel's IXL Atrium often features pop-up galleries and design stalls.

If you're visiting on a Sunday, check out the Farm Gate Market on Bathurst Street, where local producers sell fresh fruit, cheeses, baked goods, and gourmet treats, an excellent spot for stocking up on Tasmanian delicacies before heading home.

Where to Stay

For Tassie luxury, you can't get past the MACq 01 hotel set on the waterfront, where each room celebrates a different Tasmanian character or tale. Luxurious yet full of local personality. The Henry Jones Art Hotel resides within a restored jam factory. This boutique hotel blends industrial design with contemporary art and is ideal for culture-loving travellers.

Mid-range budgets will appreciate Hadley's Orient Hotel, one of Hobart's oldest hotels, offering classic style and charm in the heart of the city. Alternatively, Moss Hotel is a stylish, modern retreat located in Salamanca Place, perfect for easy access to markets, restaurants, and galleries.

For family-friendly accommodation, Salamanca Inn offers spacious apartment-style rooms with an indoor pool, close to the waterfront and markets. Quest Waterfront is central, comfortable, and well-equipped for those wanting to explore on foot.

Getting to Hobart

Reaching Hobart is simple, with direct flights from major Australian cities, including Sydney (2 hours), Melbourne (1 hour 15 minutes), Brisbane (2.5 hours), and Adelaide (2 hours). The Hobart International Airport is just a 20-minute drive from the city centre.

For those travelling from Melbourne, another option is the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, which departs from Geelong to Devonport. From there, it's a scenic three-hour drive south through rolling countryside and charming small towns.

A City That Inspires

Hobart is a destination that lingers in the heart, a place where creativity thrives, history whispers through the streets, and stunning nature is close by. Whether you're sipping pinot by the waterfront, wandering through art galleries, or gazing across the city from the summit of Mount Wellington, Hobart invites you to slow down and connect with the land, its stories, and each other.

Image credit istock / em7nara