Explore Tasmania: Everything First-Time Visitors Need to Know
The Small Island Packed with a World of Surprises
Located south of the mainland, Tasmania, the smallest and only island state of Australia, abounds with a fusion of well-preserved heritage streetscapes, breathtaking natural beauty, and rich vibes of cultural flavor. In this beautiful land of contrasts, from Hobart's lively city bustle through quiet beaches and rugged wilderness, you will find no better invitation than Tasmania's one to explore on your own.
Best Time to Visit
The best time for Tasmania is during its spring and summer, October to March. In the former seasons, the weather is more settled and bays and beaches of Freycinet Peninsula at their best to perform any outdoors like hiking, swimming, or sea-kayaking. Autumn and winter from April to September offer good discounts on Accommodation, along with cozy experiences besides open fireplaces—a great time for the tasting of Tasmanian food, beer, whisky and wine.
Suggested Itinerary
You'll need at least 7 to 10 days for visiting major places like Hobart, Maria Island, Tasman Peninsula, and Freycinet National Park. If you have a program lined up for two weeks, you will easily squeeze in some gentle walks around Cradle Mountain National Park and soak in Launceston's heritage vibe, along with an exploration of the nearby vineyards in the Tamar Valley.
Getting Around Tasmania
Most people fly into Hobart from other major centers around Australia, or take the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne to Devonport. Buses and shuttles do run to the places of interest, but the island is well worth visiting in your own transport. Campervan rentals are very popular for the flexibility.
Top Activities
1. Hobart and Surroundings: A relaxed harborfront, visit MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, and learn from the convicts' penal history in Port Arthur Historic Site.
2. Outdoor Adventures: Mountain biking down kunanyi/Mt Wellington, kayaking in Freycinet National Park, hiking the Overland Track in Cradle Mountain National Park.
3. Festivals and Events: Jibe with festivals like Dark MOFO in June, Ten Days on the Island in March, and Taste of Summer during New Year's Eve.
4. Wildlife and Nature: Get close up with native wildlife on Maria Island National Park, walk through the old rainforests of Tarkine, and marvel at Tasman National Park with its striking sea cliffs.
Budget Tips
It doesn't sound cheap, but Tasmania can be handled. favour self-cateringish breakfasts and sample the food vans at Hobart's brilliant Farm Gate Market and its Launceston equivalent, the Harvest Market. if you're going to visit more than a few of them.so it may make sense to buy a National Parks Holiday Pass.
Daily Costs
• Room in a motel: AU$200-250
• Double room in a heritage B&B: AU$300-400
• MONA: AU$39
• Aboriginal walking tour in Launceston: AU$50
• Coffee: AU$5-6
• Pint of craft beer: AU$10-15
• Glass of Tamar Valley wine: AU$10-15
• Main course at a pub bistro: AU$25-35
• Car rental per day: AU$50-70
Packing Essentials
The Tasmanian weather is unpredictable. Pack plenty of layers as you're going to need to keep warm and dry.
Final Tips
Although Tasmania is not that large, traveling through it may be surprisingly time-consuming due to the curvy and narrow roads. Drive slowly, and the road will be your friend; stop when you feel like it and enjoy Tasmanian beauty and charm.
