Tasmania is one of those places in Tasmania that’s incredible to explore but sometimes forgotten in lieu of more famous spots like Sydney. That being said, there’s a shed load of the best things to do in Tasmania that are dotted all across the island.
This amazing part of Australia is absolutely worth the trek and without a doubt. Even if you’re travelling from an international airport, Tasmania is well worth adding onto your itinerary.
With that in mind, I wanted to share some of the very best things to do in Tasmania on your next trip – it really is a gorgeous island to explore.
Take a look, below, at the best things to do in Tasmania.
Best things to do in Tasmania
1) Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs
What better than to combine a bit of sight-seeing and exploration with a dip in 28-degree thermal spring water?
The dolomite caves of Hastings (yup, technically the same kind of rocks you find in the Dolomites of Italy) were formed millions of years ago.
Today, you can explore this otherworldly tunnel of stalagmites and stalactites on a guided tour, before unwinding in one of the pools so you know, bring your swimwear and waterproof camera with you when you visit this amazing place. It really is one of the best things to do in Tasmania if you love an adventure.
2) Mount Wellington
On a clear day in Southern Tasmania, one of the best things to do is to visit the summit of Mount Wellington. I have to admit, despite what it might look like in many of our posts, I’m not really much of a hiker so saying a place is worth the hike is not something I say lightly! 😄
Honestly, it’s one of the best things to do in Tasmania if you love a little hike. For instance, the views of Hobart and Southern Tasmania from here are absolutely brilliant (totally worth that hike – don’t forget your water and perhaps a picnic).
If you do go up on a cloudy day, you get the surreal experience of standing above the clouds, which, you’ve gotta admit, makes for pretty amazing photos.
3) Wineglass Bay
If you’re looking for some beautiful natural scenery and a beach totally #humblebrag worthy, Wineglass Bay is the place for you.
Like, seriously, this place is stunning and easily up there as one of the best things to do in Tasmania when exploring the island.
It’s often listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world so even if you don’t go anywhere else in Tasmania – you’ve gotta go here.
4) Hobart Waterfront
If you’re visiting Tasmania, it’s fairly likely that you’ll stop off at its capital. Whilst you’re there, Hobart waterfront is one of the most picturesque places for a pit-stop… and to fuel up on great food (and drinks).
With its old warehouses, restaurant and the boats floating calmly on the water, it looks like something straight off a postcard. It’s probably one of the cutest little capitals in Australia and easily one of the best things to do in Tasmania.
All that aside, this is also a shed load of yummy places in Tasmania to grab some great seafood so tuck in! For instance, for one of the best breakfasts in the city, pop into Dandy Lane or stop off at Fico for a tasty Italian feast.
5) Richmond
About 25 minutes away from Hobart is a charming town which really shows off Australia’s intriguing past of crime and convicts (granted laws have changed since then so some of those crimes don’t really carry the same weight these days).
Richmond is also home to the oldest gaol in Australia (Richmond Gaol – goals, by the way, are olden days ways of referring to ‘jails’) as well as Australia’s oldest bridge.
The town is an attraction in and of itself with lots of old Georgian buildings and an irresistibly quaint old-fashioned charm that comes with.
6) The Port Arthur Historic Site
If Richmond gives you a taste for Australia’s rich convict history, the Port Arthur Historic Site will definitely be right up your street. Port Author was originally a site for repeat offenders and housed some of the worst criminals in the country.
Today, you can visit some fascinating relics of this period, such as the British Empire’s first juvenile prison, an asylum, and a ‘silent prison’ (kinda gruesome but hey, if that’s your thing).
Entrance includes a boat tour, a walking tour and you can even add on a ghost tour for the evening if you’re brave enough. 😁
7) Evandale
Stepping into Evandale feels like you’ve stepped 100 years back in time.
As a National Trust classified Georgian village, it’s a frozen picture of Georgian history with beautifully preserved heritage buildings in picturesque surroundings.
On the outskirts of the village sits Clarendon House – often referred to as one of Australia’s greatest Georgian houses, so be sure to pop by if you have some spare time on your hands.
For a great place to stay, check into the Mantra Charles Hotel that’s about 10-miles away. It’s gorgeous.
8) Bay of Fires
When you’ve had your fill of history and you’re feeling keen to step back into nature, head for the striking landscape of the Bay of Fires.
With its contrasting orange rocks and fine white sands, it’s definitely not your average beach. In fact, I’d go as far as saying it’s something of a natural wonder.
Binalong Bay is the entry point and is a totally great surfing area as well as a perfect hiking spot.
Plus, there are loads of options for bird watching that’s incredible to see. That being said, if you’re not into wildlife, you might wanna give this one a miss.
9) The West Coast Wilderness Railway
For a relaxed and unique way to see some of the natural sights of the West Coast and one of the best things to do in Tasmania.
Make sure to take the Wilderness Railway from Strahan to Queenstown, too.
Its route passes through rainforest land which can only be accessed by the train, so it truly is a one of a kind experience.
The train itself is beautiful to look at, an old steam train with impressively refurbished carriages and worth taking your good camera with you when you go. It really is one of the best things to do in Tasmania.
10) The Edge of the World
Tasmania can feel like a totally different world (geographically, it looks like it’s pretty much at the end of the world anyway) and on the Northwest coast, you can reach the edge of it.
This area of extremely rugged coastline, with its battering winds and wild scenery, really does make you feel as though you’re standing on the edge of the world in very dramatic fashion. There might be little here, but the view when you’re here is something you won’t forget in a hurry.
Read more: Best beaches in Australia
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