9 day road trip tasmania

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• The Ultimate Tasmania Road Trip: 6-12 Days

by Emily Cass | Nov 6, 2023 | Australia & NZ , Most Popular | 14 comments

Sometimes it’s the destinations closest to your home that can take you by surprise. We’ve travelled long and far to some pretty incredible places around this world but we’d never taken the time to explore our own home country of Australia, let alone Tasmania.

Tasmania, with a population of only 519,000 is becoming an increasingly sought after holiday destination and after spending 10 days in this state we are starting to understand why.

The landscapes are forever changing, there’s an extensive culinary scene with locally sourced produce, world-class wineries, picturesque beaches (that are never crowded), epic mountain ranges, hikes galore, cute coastal towns, rural farm villages, amazing wildlife and a very laid back Aussie vibe.

Exploring is the key in Tasmania and it’s definitely a place you will keep coming back too!

Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary: Interactive Map

Below is the ultimate Tasmania road trip map, that would ideally be done in 10-11 days but could be done in 6 if you skip certain places.

If you have less time, we suggest choosing either north+east (Launceston) or south+east (Hobart).

Take a Guided Tour in Tasmania

Before we dive in to our self guided tour, you may want to consider an organised tour or activity. Check out these top tours from GetMyGuide.

Car Rental in Tasmania

The first thing you’ll realise when you get to Tasmania is, you’ll need a car! We rented our car directly from Hobart Airport with Bargain Car Rentals and they were far cheaper than their competitors. The service was quick, pain-free and the car was fine. For a 10-day economy car rental, we paid $560 AUD plus $150 in gas over 10 days. Aside from a regular vehicle, many people choose to travel around Tasmania in full-blown houses on wheels, caravans, campervans, motorbikes or 4WD’s. Anything goes as long as it gets you from A to B!

The BEST Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Below is our itinerary over the course of 10 days. Tasmania may be small but there’s so much to see. How long would we recommend? It depends what you’re coming for, but generally speaking, nothing less than 6 days if you want to see the main sights but even then you may find yourself rushing.

DAY 1: HOBART

You’ve arrived into Hobart, the capital of Tasmania or maybe you’ve come into Devonport via ferry (if that is the case, do this itinerary in reverse). Either way, if you’ve been to Sydney or Melbourne before you’ll be shocked to see the difference of this small Tasmanian capital. Hobart, whilst small, still has a lot to offer, especially in the restaurant department! There’s a very dynamic food scene combined with rich history, parks, shopping and preserved towns.

To start the day off right, grab a freshly baked croissant and coffee from Daci & Daci Bakery . You’ll be coming back for seconds, we assure you. Next, make your way to the famous MONA (Museum of Old & New Art), a unique interactive museum that is sure to leave an impression with some downright crazy exhibitions including an entire wall of 100+ uniquely shaped vaginas. Allow at least 2 hours. Not for the vaginas, but for the whole museum. Entry $28 AUD. Get there as it opens (10 am) as it gets very crowded.

When you’ve finished marvelling at the artworks at the MONA, carry on to  Bonorong Wildlife Park where you can get up close with wombats, Tasmanian devils and our furry friend, the koalas. Entry is $29 AUD and includes a tour (check the times). Here are some very interesting facts about these creatures. Word of warning, don’t try and pat them, they are very aggressive with their teeth.

When you’re done, spend the afternoon sampling beers at Cascade Brewery , Australia’s oldest operating brewery. Or sample whiskey at  Lark Distillery, one of Hobart’s famous whiskey bars.  Salamanca Place has a large range of restaurants to choose from for dinner for those sweet tooth lovers, Honey Badger Dessert Cafe will do the trick (or make you sick).

Set your alarm for 4:30 am… we promise it’ll be worth it.

Overnight: Hobart

Booking.com

• Budget: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse
• Midrange:  Zero Davey Boutique Apartment Hotel
• Luxury:  MACq1 Hotel

Top Tours in Hobart

If organized tours are your thing, here are some recommendations from GetMyGuide:

DAY 2: HOBART

Rise and SHINE, it’s time for sunrise over Mount Wellington.

Mount Wellington is a short 30-35 minute drive from the CBD and it offers breathing taking panoramic views of Hobart and surrounding areas. We chose to visit at sunrise and would highly recommend doing the same. The constant changing of light and colours is simply beautiful. It is at least 10 degrees colder up there, so dress appropriately! If it gets too cold there’s a pinnacle observation shelter to get warm.

It’s free to visit and you can drive directly to the top so there’s no hiking involved. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take something prior and please watch out for the animals on the way up! There are plenty of walks to do around the base of Mt Wellington if hiking is your thing. See here for options.

Once you’ve got back to the city, grab yourself some breakfast a t Machine Laundry Cafe or the famous Jackman & McRoss and slowly stroll towards the preserved town of Battery Point , a quaint suburb with cottages, cute roundabouts and historical landmarks. Go shopping on Liverpool street , roam around Elizabeth Street Pier  and if you love ciders, visit  Willie Smiths Apple Shed in Huon Valley (30 minutes from the city) for lunch and a refreshing cider! End the day with dinner at  Frank’s , an Argentinian restaurant with great steaks and even better vegetable side dishes.

TOP TIPS: (for foodies!)

• SALAMANCA MARKETS: The Salamanca Markets are Australia’s largest open-air market and are one of Tasmania’s main attractions! Please note they only take place on Saturday mornings from 8:30 – 3:30 and host 100’s of fresh food, clothing, music and an unforgettable atmosphere (so we’ve been told!). Unfortunately, we were in Hobart on a Monday & Tuesday (not recommended!) and missed this experience. If you can, plan to be in Hobart over a weekend to enjoy what all these markets have to offer. Devastated we missed out on all the free samples.
• STREET EATS @ FRANKO: Every Friday from 4:30pm – 9:30pm between November and April, Franklin Square boats a hyperactive street food night market featuring funky stalls, music, food, beer, wine & ciders. Picnic rugs are provided.

Day 3: PORT ARTHUR & THE TASMAN PENNINSULA

Say farewell to Hobart and a big hello to the Tasman Penninsula.

Head straight towards Eagle Hawk Neck , a narrow isthmus that connects the Tasman Peninsula with the Forestier Peninsula. Walk down to the Tesselated Pavements and soak in the beautiful scenery of the Tasman Arch.

Continue your drive along the coast towards the historical site of Port Arthur  for a look into the fascinating convict past. Tickets are $39 which includes a guided tour and a boat ride. You also have the option to do a self-guided tour with audio for an extra charge. If you’re into spooky tours, stick around for the nighttime ghost tour.

Our next stop was rather different! Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a town where everything starts with doo? Well, you can, here in Tasmania. There’s such a thing and it’s called, “ Doo Town “. How doolightful! Grab a snack at the doo-lishus food truck before checking out the nearby blowhole.

Along the peninsula you can also get up close and personal with the Tasmanian Devils at The Unzoo , sample Tasmanian chocolate at the chocolate factory and if you have more time consider walking The Cape Hauy walk . Avoid eating at Port Arthur and instead, stop into Bangor Wine and Oyster Shed (even if you don’t like oysters) for a wine tasting and lunch. The rosé was just delightful!

We spent the night in the small coastal town of Swansea.  There are short walks to do around the headland or you could eat fish and chips on the beach from  Oyster Bay Seafood. Not a must do, but a decent place to break up the drive.

Note: If you wish to visit Maria Island, (more info below) spend the night in Triabunna, not Swansea. 

Overnight: Swansea 

• Budget: Swansea Backpacker Lodge 
• Midrange: Swansea Beach Chalets
• Luxury: Piermont Retreat

Top Tours in Port Arthur

Day 4: the great eastern drive.

By now you will have begun the Great Eastern Drive ! 176km’s of vineyards, coastal towns, bays, beaches and never-ending beauty.

Just 10 minutes from Swansea is Kates Berry Farm . Sample a variety of jams, including “adults only jams” and enjoy a berry-filled breakfast before hitting up some wineries along the east coast trail.

This part of your journey will allow you to sample some of the world’s most renowned wines. The wineries are all relatively close together and all offer a different experience. Gala Estate , holds tastings in a 100-year-old home, still with its original stove and lounge room making for a very personal experience.  Devil’s Corner is one of the more popular and modern wineries along this route, especially for lunch. Spring Vale had a cute picnic area. The tastings at all these wineries were free.

Aim to spend the night in Bicheno. Bicheno is the closest coastal town to the famous Coles Bay and Freycinet National Park and is a great base for you to explore the region tomorrow! Allow enough time to walk around the town and if you’re there in time, have lunch at The Farm Shed , visit the beach and then head for a relaxed dinner at The Gulch which boasts fresh fish and chips on the wharf, accompanied by 1000’s of seagulls.

Overnight: Bicheno

DAY 5: COLES BAY & FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK

Have breakfast at Blue Edge Bakery in Bicheno (great pastries, coffee and sandwiches) and travel 30 minutes towards Coles Bay . It’s a good idea to pack sandwiches or snacks as there aren’t too many places to grab food inside the National Park without the high price inflation. The bakery has you sorted!

The primary reason tourists visit Freycinet National Park is to hike to the famous  Wineglass Bay lookout. It took roughly 30 minutes to get to the top and Jacob did it in no shoes, which caught the attention of a lot of other tourists who had bulky boots and walking poles…

There is a “do it yourself ” parking pass which allows you to buy a ticket and leave the receipt on your car. Rangers do come and inspect so don’t get yourself a fine by trying to avoid the system. The parking pass is $24 AUD. If you wish to walk down to wineglass bay, it is a 1.5-hour walk but remember, once you go down, you have to come back up! There are also Wineglass boat tours for a different experience.

You could spend hours in this National Park, especially if the weather is on your side. Be sure to stop by Honeymoon Bay  for a swim and it won’t take long before you feel like you’ve just entered a movie scene. On your way out, don’t miss the Friendly Beaches in Coles Bay. Before you ask, yep, that’s their real name and they’re definitely pretty friendly! Stunning.

Overnight: Bicheno or Freycinet National Park. If budget isn’t a concern, be sure to treat yourselves to a night ( or two)  at Freycinet Lodge ! 

Top Tours in Freycinet National Park

Day 6: bay of fires.

The Bay of Fires  stretches from Binalong Bay  in the south to Eddystone Point in the north and is an impressive combination of untouched wilderness with perfect strands of beaches. There are many white sandy beaches and inlets to explore. This area is famous for its orange-hued granite rocks which are actually produced by a lichen. There’s a fun fact for the day! It was really impressive to see, especially from above on our drone!

Do note that The Bay Of Fires refers to a whole area, not just a singular bay . The closest town is St Helens and there are a handful of restaurants to choose from. In Tasmania standards, it’s one of the “larger” of the towns. (Not including Hobart or Launceston). Binalong Bay Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Tasmania and where we spent our Australia Day although unfortunately, the weather wasn’t on our side.

The drive from Bay of Fires directly to Launceston isn’t too long (2 hours 45min) but after a day on the beach relaxing we chose to break it up by spending a night in the very quiet town of Pioneer. This is a very quiet country town with no restaurants or cafes so it’s best to stop in St Helens prior and get yourself some dinner for the evening. Our accommodation, Pioneer Lodge (one of the only two) was a large farmhouse with an old-school kitchen, but it was a unique place to spend the night. They have cooking facilities and breakfast included. Just don’t expect luxury!

Note: If you’re pressed for time, you can drive directly from The Bay Of Fires to Launceston (2 hours and 50 minutes). 

Overnight: Pioneer 

DAY 7: LAUNCESTON via DERBY

After breakfast head for the small town of Derby which is close by. Derby is famous for its Blue Derby Mountain Bike trails with more than 100km of trails to chose from.

You can rent the bikes from Vertigo MTB in the centre of town and spend as little or as long on the mountain as you wish for $59 AUD. I, unfortunately, had a big fall within the first 15 minutes and opted out for the rest of the morning but Jacob enjoyed over 40km’s worth, accident-free.

If mountain biking isn’t your thing (I don’t blame you), you can choose a more appropriate activity like wine tasting at Piper Brooks or Jansz Winery , take a walk along the beach at Bridport or d uring the summer season (January being the best) make a worthy pit stop at Bridestowe Lavender Estate  and marvel at the never-ending rows of bright purple lavender fields. Don’t forget to try the lavender flavoured ice cream! Launceston can be reached within 45 minutes from here.

Photo Credit: Georgie Sharp.

Overnight: Launceston 

• Budget: Pod Inn
• Midrange: Two up on York
• Luxury: Peppers Silo

Top Tours in Launceston

Day 8: tamar valley.

There’s always more room for wine and the Tamar Valley is one of the most popular of the wine routes in Tasmania. You can jump on a tour from Launceston or head out on your own and stop in as many or as little as you like. Our top picks were Velo , Wines for Joanie , Moore Hill Estate , and a family-owned vineyard,  Iron Pot Bay Vineyard . Is there such a thing as too much cheese and wine in a day? I don’t think so.

If the weather calls for it, take a drive to Batman’s Bridge and Low Head Lighthouse for a relaxing afternoon.

Top Tip: On the 4th Sunday of every month between November and April, Moore Hill Estate holds “Sparkling Seafood Sundays” which includes fresh seafood dishes along side delicious wines. You don’t need to purchase tickets, just make a reservation and show up hungry and thirsty!

Overnight: Launceston

DAY 9: LAUNCESTON

Today we spent the day exploring the city of Launceston ! A vibrant hub for food, wine and culture. Make a reservation for breakfast at   Stillwater Cafe , a restored 1830s flour mill on the Tamar River.  The green and red bowls were both delicious!

Just outside Stillwater Cafe, you’ll find the beginning of the Cataract Gorge . A beautiful gorge super close to the city centre. The gorge is the perfect place for a long walk or run, a place to relax or in the warmer months, a swim in either the gorge or it’s very own pool. For those more prone to hiking, head out on the Zig Zag Track.

The rest of the day could be spent shopping in the CBD , taking a tour of the James Boag Brewery , relaxing in City Park , visiting the Automotive Museum, taking in the art at The Queen Victoria Museum and MOST importantly, making room for all the food from one of the many high-quality restaurants including dessert at Charlie’s Dessert Bar . Drool. Here are some top recommendations for restaurants. 

It would take up half the post if we listed every single winery in Tasmania but there are two more worth mentioning a short drive from the city so if you have the time, check them out! Joseph Cromey Wines  (shown below) and Leaning Church Vineyard were two standouts for us. Have a beautiful sit-down lunch at the award-winning restaurant in Joseph Cromey or devour a kick-ass cheese plate alongside your favourite glass of wine. Mmm wine and cheese.

Overnight: Launceston (or Mole Creek to break up the drive tomorrow)

DAY 10: CRADLE MOUNTAIN & MOLE CREEK

Prepare yourself for a whole day out! This was one of our biggest days.

Drive from Launceston towards Cradle Mountain but first, take the edge off with breakfast at The Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm (40 minutes from Launceston). They have a huge selection of delicious meals with fresh raspberries galore! Jump back on the road and carry on to the Mole Creek Caves .

There are 2 caves to see, The Marakoopa Caves which is home to the largest concentration of glow worms in the country and The King Solomon Caves which are the dry caves. You can’t access the caves without being on a tour. Marakoopa tours leave on the hour starting at 10:00 am and King Solomon at 10:30 am. Entry ( + tour) is $19 AUD. It’s 9 degrees in the caves so bring a jacket.

The drive to Cradle Mountain is a further 1.5 hours (or just under). Cradle Mountain is one of Tasmania’s famous attractions. Shuttle buses leave from the visitor centre and drop hikers to designated spots throughout the park. There is a range of walks to do from easy to challenging with the most popular hike being around Dove Lake . This can be completed in 2-3 hours and is easy to moderate.

From October-May, keen hikers can tackle “The Overland Track”. A 6-day hike  covering 82km. You have to carry everything with you (food, water, tents, clothes). The weather can change rapidly in Cradle Mountain and it is not recommended for anyone without a high level of fitness and/or experience.

Before you reach Launceston, we’d suggest stopping into Ashgrove Cheese Factory to sample 6 -7 different kinds of cheese and then onwards to Van Diemen’s Land Creamery and end the day with 2 scoops (or more) of ice cream! It’s a 40-minute drive back to Launceston from here.

Top Tours at Cradle Mountain

Accommodation in cradle mountain.

If you have the time, break up your trip with a night or two at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge  or Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village. The views from the surrounding Tasmanian wilderness aren’t to be missed! 

But WAIT there’s more…

There’s never enough time for everything but had we have had more time, these are some other notable places worth visiting.

1. Bruny Island (South-East Coast) : 

Take a day trip via ferry (with your car) from Hobart or better yet, stay overnight at one of the many accommodation choices.  Explore the island by foot, bicycle or car. Bruny Island offers beautiful scenery, crystal clear waters and small beaches as well as a chance to enjoy Tasmania’s finest cheeses at the Bruny Island Cheese Company . Ferries leave from Kettering, 40 minutes south of Hobart and you can find the schedule here . Note: Some car companies don’t allow you to take the car here so be sure to check the fine print on your rental. 

2. Maria Island (East Coast) : 

A 30-minute ferry from Triabunna will bring you to Maria Island. An island with convict heritage, rare wildlife, great walks and stunning scenery. There are no vehicles allowed on this island making it a very special place to enjoy without any of the chaos. There is some accommodation available  but don’t expect 5 stars. You can find the schedule and fares for the ferry here . Note: You will need to bring your own food and water. There are no shops on this island and it is recommended to pre-buy your ferry tickets. 

3. Strahan (West Coast) :

A small town on the west coast of Hobart tucked between Macquarie Harbour and the rainforest. During the winter it can be a very sleepy fishing village but in the summer months, it comes alive with hoards of tourists. Be sure to take a sunset stroll down Ocean Beach, Tasmania’s longest beach (30km!), a cruise down The Gordon River and enjoy the Tasmanian wilderness (an entirely different scene than the east coast).

Insider Tips for your Tasmanian Road Trip

• If you’re looking for a phone carrier, opt for Telstra. We struggled to get service on Vodaphone through the towns and mountains.
• Please watch out for the wildlife . There is a staggering 1/2 a million animals killed every year on the roads in Tasmania. You literally couldn’t go 1km without seeing a dead animal. It was really awful. Slow down, pay attention to the signs and if you hit an animal, call Bonorong Rescue Centre, Tasmania’s only 24-hour wildlife rescue service.
• It’s a real Aussie thing to eat a meat pie, but you’re in Tasmania so be sure to indulge in a Tasmanian Scallop Pie. They’re sold everywhere. 
• Don’t be alarmed if you don’t see a single person for hours at a time on the roads. Tasmania is SO quiet!
• Try to aim for the weekend in Hobart, there’s a lot more going on and a lot of restaurants closed Monday/Tuesdays.
• Visit Mt Wellington at sunrise.

• Get yourself a National Park Pass for $60 if you plan to visit 2 national parks. This allows entry into all of the parks.
• Those pesky parking ticket attenders scout the streets religiously for people overstaying their parking . Don’t presume it won’t happen to you.
• Launceston’s premier event is Festivale , a 3-day event held in February each year. This festival offers you a chance to sample Tasmania’s best produce incl beer, wine, ciders, food, arts and entertainment.
• Petrol stations can be few and far between on the longer roads so if you’re in doubt and you see one, fill ‘er up!
• Some, but not all wineries do free tastings. Ask prior if they will cost. If they do, it’s usually only $5 which is refundable with a bottle of wine purchase.

STRAYA’ MATE

Who knew kangaroos could lift cars?!

Have you done a road trip to Tasmania before? Anything you’d like to add? We’d love to hear from you!

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14 Comments

Thanks for the great blog. My wife and I set off on the Spirit of TAS on the 20th March for 2 weeks in our Troop carrier. We look forward to checking out what the island state has to offer. Looks like you two had fun!

You’re welcome Zac, enjoy your time there. And yup, lots of fun!

Love your itinerary. Looking forward to our December trip. Will keep your itinerary in hand.

Glad to hear Helen! Enjoy 🙂

question ; How do we return to Hobart at the end of the road trip, do we drive back the same route and if so is the time on the road included in the ultimate itinerary?

You can either go the same way you came or a different way which is more direct through the centre which will take around 2 hours or so.

Great article guys and love the photo gallery. We took a similar itinerary but included the loop from Hobart around to Cradle Mountain. Added a lot more driving but some beautiful stops along the way such as Russell Falls and Lake St Clair.

Such a nice trip isn’t it! I wish we had longer!

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The best road trip in tasmania itinerary (2024 guide).

Are you looking for the ultimate road trip Tasmania itinerary?

The small Australian island is jam-packed full of enchanting waterfalls, mountains screaming out to be climbed and many of Australia’s best trails to explore.

You’ll probably feel a bit overwhelmed at all of the things to do in Tasmania at first; which is where this Tasmania road trip itinerary comes in!

This ultimate Tasmania itinerary accounts for the very best national parks, mountains, lakes and culture in the Australian state.

Whether you’re on a backpacking trip around Australia or visiting Tasmania with your family, there’s plenty for all sorts to enjoy in the Australian state.

How to prepare for this Tasmania road trip itinerary

This Tasmania itinerary begins in Devonport and loops around in a circle; this is presum ing you’ll be taking the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne with your own vehicle.

If you have your own car already, this is the most cost-effective option, despite the high ferry cost!

If you don’t have a car, fear not, lots of companies in Hobart offer great rental deals.

If you’re planning on flying into Tasmania , just begin this Tasmania itinerary in Hobart and follow the loop around from there!

This itinerary covers three weeks in Tasmania, but there aren’t many days off!

If you want to explore at a more leisurely pace, I’d recommend four weeks in Tasmania.

If you have less time, there are shorter itinerary options at the end.

These obviously do not cover Tasmania in as much detail, but they focus on smaller areas which enable you to see as much as possible in a shorter time.

Are you ready for the ultimate road trip in Tasmania itinerary?

Let’s go! First things first, book your overnight ferry from Melbourne to Devonport. We pick up this itinerary in Devonport the next day!

Suggested time – half a day

Arrive in Devonport bright and early!

There isn’t a huge amount to do in Devonport apart from some pretty beaches and a few cafes.

If you’re feeling energised and ready to take on Tasmania after some caffeine, move straight to stop 2…

Known as ‘ The Platypus Capital of the World ’, Latrobe is a popular place to spot the rare mammal.

Take part in a platypus tour, where you will be taken to the best spots to spot the animal, or just try and spot one in the wild yourself!

Spend a night between Latrobe and Sheffield.

Either find a camp spot using WikiCamps or search for hotels in Latrobe or Sheffield by clicking here .

Sheffield is a distinctly unique little town.

In a quaint  community spirit unlike anywhere else, the town is adorned with murals depicting its history.

Find out the story of all of the village’s local characters by going through its street art .

There are also quirky cafes aplenty and a really interesting antique shop to browse.

Liffey Falls

Your first nature stop on your Tasmania road trip itinerary!

Liffey Falls are gorgeous waterfalls up a gravel road.

A short walk from the car park to the falls ensures that they are very secluded , and the roaring water makes for a perfect picnic backdrop!

Also on site is a ‘big tree’ – spoiler – it’s huge.

Stay the night in Bridport, or at a campsite between Liffey Falls and Mount William. Check out hotels in Bridport by clicking here . 

You could also check out Launceston, the perfect place for a weekend away , en route.

If you’re after a day or two of relaxing and unwinding, this city is ideal for you!

Mount William

Drive Eastwards towards Mount William in the North Eastern corner of Tasmania.

Mount William is an easy 45-minute hike (one way) to a summit that offers amazing views of bushland and coastline.

And if you’re lucky, you might catch one of these cuties in the car park…

Bay of Fires

Suggested time – 1.5 days

Head South from Mount William to the Bay of Fires .

Named in this way because Western settlers saw fire coming from the beaches as they approached, the area is known for gorgeous sandy coves and azure waters.

Binalong Bay was my favourite little town in the area, with amazing tropical-feeling beaches and a small town community.

Things to do in the Bay of Fires

• Eddystone Point Lighthouse – this 37-meter high-lighthouse has saved many ships over its 130-year history. It offers scenic views and interesting architecture.
• Walk along the white sand beaches and swim in the clear waters
• The Gardens Conservation Area – a 20 km self-drive will take you past some of the areas most scenic spots of coastline
• See the Red Rocks – even though they look fiery, they’re not actually how the region got its name (it did so from Aboriginal people lighting fires along the coast). But the red rocks have become symbolic of the area and are a must-visit in the Bay of Fires.
• Halls Falls – Located 45 minutes west of Binalong Bay, Halls Falls is an easy but secluded hike through Eucalyptus trees.
• Grants Lagoon – This is situated just behind Binalong Bay and is somewhat sheltered from the elements – the lagoon water is often a few degrees warmer than the actual sea water.

Find a campsite on WikiCamps, or if you prefer solid walls, check out the best hotels in Binalong Bay by clicking here .

Freycinet National Park

Suggested time – 1-2 days

One of the islands’ most iconic photographs is that of Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park and it will be a highlight of your 3 weeks in Tasmania.

It’s a beautiful beach scene that looks – quite literally – like a wine glass, with beautiful blue seas on each shore.

Things to do in Freycinet National Park

• Mount Amos – This mountain offers a panoramic view of the surroundings and the bay itself. You can also hike to the beach of Wineglass Bay, where you can enjoy a dip in the cool waters as a reward!
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse – This is a 20-minute walk, and offers panoramic vistas of the national park at the end
• Honeymoon Bay Beach – it’s every bit as picturesque as it sounds, Honeymoon Bay Beach is perfectly tranquil and absolutely stunning
• Sleepy Bay – This fantastically named bay is a short 10-minute walk, taking you past some spectacular lookout points. Head down to the very end to see a beautiful view over the bay.
• The Hazards – viewable from outside the park, The Hazards are four granite mountains that change colour during sunrise and sunset – they’re every photographer’s dream.

Stay the night in a campsite near Freycinet National Park or in one of the hotels – click here to view them .

Tasman Peninsula

Suggested time – 1-3 days

Onwards to the Tasman Peninsula!

There are three capes you can traverse here. If you’re an avid hiker and have the time, you could do them all – if not, select the best one for you by using the details below.

Walks on the Tasman Peninsula

• Cape Pillar Hike – this two day long hike is very long – 30 kms in total, and the first day 22 kms must be covered as the only place to camp (unless you are with a tour) is 8 kms from the start/ finish point. The views at the end are spectacular – you’re right on the edge of the cape and can see for miles. However, if you don’t like long hikes, this may not be for you.
• Cape Raoul  – this 14 kilometre hike takes you through dense jungle and eventually peters out to oceanic views and sheer cliff. Great for those who like day hikes and speedy hikers, the edge of Cape Raoul will give you views to Hobart, Bruny Island and other spots of the Tasman Peninsula.
• Cape Hauy  – starting from Fortescue Bay, this 8 kilometre hike is ideal for those who like spectacular views without huge distances. With gorgeous ocean and land views from the start, this cape walk is a beautiful way to see the dramatic coastline of the Tasman Peninsula.

Other things to do on the Tasman Peninsula

• The Eaglehawk Tessellated Pavement – the sheer power of the sea has caused this rock surface to be eroded to form a resemblance to a mosaic – it’s a really unique natural attraction!
• The Tasman Arch – this arch is another wonderful natural phenomenon that’s well worth checking out
• The Tasman Blow Hole – At high tide, this blow hole can create a huge gush of water; don’t stand too close!

There are plenty of free and paid-for campsites around the Tasman Peninsula or hotels in the area. Click here to browse .

Port Arthur

Suggested time – 1 day

Located within the village of Port Arthur is one of Australia’s most significant historic sites. It tells the story of the convict settlers of the area and was also the site of the worst mass murder in Australian history. It’s an area steeped in history that’s vital for understanding  Australia’s convict past.

Things to do in Port Arthur

• The historical sites tell the story of Port Arthur as a convict site. Be sure to go on a historical tour with the informative guides.
• Port Arthur ghost tours tell some of the haunting tales of spooky happenings in the jail.
• The Totem Pole and Candlestick Walk is an 8.8-kilometre bush walk with the opportunity to climb up rock formations at the end.
• Check out the Maingon Bay lookout, which is one of the best oceanic views on the peninsula.
• If you’re visiting in November, December or January, check out the Port Arthur Lavender Farm for some amazing smells and great photo opportunities!

You’ll be able to stay in the same place as you did the night before or head to Hobart when you finish your day out and stay in a hotel or campsite there.

Suggested time – 2-4 days

It’s time to touch down in Tasmania’s capital!

Hobart is a hidden gem, a wonderful city bursting with culture and holding immense beauty. It’s an essential to visit, even if you only have 1 week in Tasmania.

The Best Things to do in Hobart

• The Docklands – on a sunny day these look wonderfully idyllic and inviting, with colourful boats and ramshackle coffee shops lining the edge.
• The Tasmania National Museum and Art Gallery  – this free entry museum contains a few interesting exhibitions – including a really informative one about bushfires – and a section about Aboriginal Tasmania which is well worth a look.
• MONA  – this museum may be what makes Hobart famous, and although it’s kind of pricey to get in, it’s a museum unlike no other, challenging you to really think about life and the world through art.
• Salamanca Place  – this charming area of Hobart is home to Georgian architecture housing galleries, restaurants and boutiques – perfect for an afternoon’s exploration. On Saturday mornings (8:30am- 3pm) the Salamanca Markets are hosted here, which sell local produce and hand made gifts.
• Derwent River Cruise  – this historic cruise will tell the tale of the city of Hobart and how it came to be.

Mount Wellington

You can’t visit Hobart without catching a sunset or sunrise at Mount Wellington.

One of my favourite bits of travel advice ever was “if you can see the top of Mount Wellington when you get to Hobart, stop whatever you’re doing and get the hell up there”. (Thanks David, a volunteer at the Devonport tourist information centre).

It will be a highlight on your entire road trip in Australia . Drive right up to the peak and be AMAZED at the view spreading out beneath you. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’ve got a bit of time, try to catch sunrise as well!

Accommodation in Hobart

Even if you’re camping around Tasmania, Hobart is a great spot to recharge in some city-centre accommodation.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Hobart.

Budget: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse is a hostel that will change your opinion of budget accommodation. Each dorm is intricately furnished, and there is a lovely common area and BBQ to enjoy as well as balconies with mountain views. If you don’t want to stay in a dorm room you can opt for a private bunkroom or queen bedroom. On-site is free parking, free luggage storage and free WiFi. Click here for rates and book today .

Mid-Range:  Riverfront Motel & Villas is perfect for families or those wanting outdoor-based accommodation without camping. Providing a mix of motel-style and villa accommodation, it is located close to MONA. Laundry facilities, a BBQ and a restaurant and bar are on site.  Click here for rates and to book today .

Luxury:  Ibis Styles Hobart is a great luxury spot within the city. On site is a swimming pool and a fitness centre and the rooms are decorated in a state-of-the-art style. It’s in a great location to Hobart centre and Salamanca Market. Click here for rates and to book today .

Bruny Island

Suggested time 1-2 days

Next up, hop on a boat from Hobart to Bruny Island.

Bruny Island offers coastal walks, scenic views and great food and wine. There’s nothing quite like the scenery of the island, and there’s an adventure here to suit everybody.

Things to do on Bruny Island

• Head to the gorgeous beaches of the island
• Visit the Bruny Island lighthouse, the second oldest lighthouse in Australia, for an amazing sunset view
• Sample some of the amazing foods and wines of the island by touring some of the farms and shops – the Bruny Island Berry Farm is a firm favourite, and there are lots of vineyards on the island selling amazing wines.
• Take one of the many walking trails on the island

Stay a night or two on Bruny Island. There are campsites on WikiCamps or click here to look here for accommodation . 

Mount Field

This national park, perfect for practising your travel photography , excels in waterfalls and tall trees – with a 2.5-hour loop walk taking you to the best of both!

Best Spots to Visit in Mount Field National Park

• Russell Falls
• Horseshoe Falls
• Lake Dobson for a scenic, quiet swim – and for downhill skiing in winter!
• Tall Trees Walk – a 30-minute circuit starring the world’s tallest flowering plant

There are plenty of accommodation options and campsites near the national park. Click here for hotels near Mount Field .

Lake St Clair

Beautiful Lake St Clair is the deepest lake in Australia.

There are many hikes you can do from the national park, and it’s also where the overland track, a 60-kilometre odyssey through wild Tasmania finishes.

The Best Hikes in Lake St Clair National Park

• Mount Rufus is an ever-changing hike with a beautiful peak, great views and varied terrain making the walk back really interesting!
• Shadow Lake is well worth a walk around
• Of course, relaxing by the lake and enjoying some of the shorter walks is also a great way to take in Lake St Clair

There are hotels around the national park that are great for a night’s stay – click here to view them . Alternatively, you could camp near the park. 

Heading to the West Coast, Strahan is a port town known as one of the country’s most beautiful seaside towns.

It’s a somewhat sleepy place, but there are a few things to do in Strahan that make visiting the West Coast town worthwhile.

Things to do in Strahan

• Take a boat trip to Sarah Island , which was once a convict prison and has lots of history.
• Artisan shops in the town
• Huge sand dunes (perfect for boarding!) along a rugged beach
• The Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park which Strahan serves as a gateway to. This is Tasmania’s greatest wilderness and is a fantastic place to hike in.

For hotels in Strahan, click here . 

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain may be the highlight of your Tasmania road trip itinerary.

Its jagged peaks have certainly inspired many an explorer to the island, and heaps of people dream about scaling the mountain one day.

Things to do in Cradle Mountain National Park

•  If you’re a keen hiker or climber, the Cradle Mountain summit hike   should be number one on your list – it is without a doubt one of the best hikes in Tasmania . It wasn’t something I was planning on doing. But for some reason, on the day, I found myself on the top of that thing. It was the scariest experience of my life. I’m so glad I did it, but it’s really not for the faint-hearted (it was much scarier than Huashan, the supposed most dangerous mountain in China ). You have been warned!
• Marion’s Lookout Walk enables you to see Cradle Mountain and snap an iconic feature – without actually climbing up the thing. It’s a bit of a climb to reach this lookout, as you can also see some of the park from a birds-eye view.
• Dove Lake Circuit is an easy walk with a view of Cradle Mountain looming above. This is a great walk for those who don’t like hiking but do love nature.

If you’re camping, there are plenty of spots, both free and paid, around the National Park.

If you’re looking for a room, you could stay in Somerset .

Now it’s time for the North Coast!

Stanley is a gorgeous little seaside town where everything looks astonishingly perfect. It’s small and quiet, but it’s a wonderful place to explore to have a bit of contrast from all the hikes.

If you’re spending 2 weeks in Tasmania or longer, it’s a nice addition to your road trip itinerary.

Things to do in Stanley

• Climb up The Nut, an ancient volcanic crater.
• Treat yourself at one of the many ice creameries lining the quaint high street.
• If it’s warm, the beach is lovely, with calm, kind of warm waters and beautiful views. It’s one of my favourite swim spots in Australia!

Here are some more amazing things to do in Stanley .

Searching for somewhere to stay in Stanley? There are campsites near the town or check here for the best accommodation deals in Stanley itself .

 North Coast

Finish your Tasmania road trip by checking out some of the North Coast highlights. These can be encompassed in a Stanley – Devonport drive.

Best Parts of the North Coast

• The beautiful beaches of Boat Harbour Bay
• The town of Bernie
• Penguin , where if you’re lucky you might see fairy penguins darting on shore at dusk.

If you’ve got another night until your boat back to the mainland, find a campsite on WikiCamps or check out the best places to stay in Devonport .

Back to where you began! Get to Devonport in good time for your Spirit of Tasmania return to Melbourne this evening.

Shorter Tasmania Road Trip Itineraries

“This all sounds great… but I just don’t have the time!” I hear you cry.

Have no fear.

Here are some itineraries for 3 day, 5 day, 7 day, 10 day and 2 week trips to Tasmania.

You can still feel the Tassie magic, even with a shorter amount of time!

Tasmania Road Trip 3 Days

If you only have 3 days in Tasmania, you’ll have to focus on a specific area of the state. Here are my recommendations:

Option One – from Devonport or use alternative day 3 for from Hobart

• Day 1 : From Devonport, drive south to Cradle Mountain – or drive north from Hobart. Spend a day hiking in the national park.
• Day 2:  Explore Lake St Clair National Park.
• Day 3:  See Stanley and the Nut, as well as the north coast en route back to Devonport.
• Alternative Day 3:  Drive to Mount Field National Park. Spend the day exploring the park before heading back to Hobart.

Option Two – from Devonport or reverse for from Hobart

• Day 1:  Visit the Bay of Fires.
• Day 2:  Head to Freycient National Park and hike to one of the Wineglass Bay viewpoints. Then start driving south to Hobart
• Day 3:  Spend the morning looking around Hobart. Then head back to Devonport to catch the ferry.

Tasmania Road Trip 5 Days

• Day 1:  Head to Binalong Bay and the Bay of Fires. Spend the day exploring here.
• Day 2:  Spend the day in Freycient National Park
• Day 3: See the sights of Hobart
• Day 4:  Day trip to Bruny Island
• Day 5:  Visit Port Arthur
• Day 1:  Head to Cradle Mountain and spend the day in the National Park
• Day 2:  Head to Lake St Clair National Park and spend the day hiking
• Day 3:  See Hobart
• Day 4:  Visit Freycinet National Park
• Day 5:  Spend the day at the Bay of Fires

Tasmania Road Trip 7 Days

• Day 1:  Head to the Bay of Fires and spend the day exploring here
• Day 2:  Go to Freycinet National Park and see Wineglass Bay
• Day 3:  Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes OR visit Port Arthur
• Day 4: See Hobart
• Day 5:  Visit Mount Field National Park
• Day 6:  See Lake St Clair National Park
• Day 7:  Hike up Cradle Mountain!

Tasmania Road Trip 10 Days

• Day 1:  Go to the Bay of Fires
• Day 2:  Hike around Freycinet National Park
• Day 3:  Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes
• Day 4:  Visit Port Arthur
• Day 5:  See Hobart
• Day 6:  See Hobart
• Day 7:  See Mount Field National Park
• Day 8:  Head to Lake St Clair and hike up Mount Rufus
• Day 9:  Do some smaller hiking trails around Cradle Mountain National Park
• Day 10:  Hike up Cradle Mountain

2 Weeks in Tasmania

• Day 2:  Spend a day chilling around Binalong Bay
• Day 3: Hike around Freycinet National Park
• Day 4:  Spend another day in the park
• Day 5:  Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes
• Day 6:  Visit Port Arthur
• Day 7:  See Hobart
• Day 8:  See Hobart
• Day 9:  See Mount Field National Park
• Day 10:  Head to Lake St Clair and hike up Mount Rufus
• Day 11: See Strahan, go sandboarding and drive along the beach
• Day 12:  Do some smaller hiking trails around Cradle Mountain National Park
• Day 13:  Hike up Cradle Mountain
• Day 14: Head to Stanley and climb up The Nut

Have you ever been to Tasmania? What were your favourite bits if so? Is this Tasmania road trip itinerary useful? Let me know in the comments below!I hope you enjoyed this list of the best things to do in Tasmania! Please share it or follow me on Facebook ! 

2 thoughts on “ The best road trip in Tasmania itinerary (2024 guide) ”

I have great memories of Tasmania, I can’t understand why so many travellers miss it out. Sounds like you made the most of it though and saw plenty.

It’s a fantastic place it’s it! Definitely saw a lot, there’s still more to see though. I want to go back and do the Overland Track at some point 🙂

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The best itineraries for a spectacular Tasmania road trip

This post was originally published on A Globe Well Travelled in 2014. The content has been revised and updated with fresh information.

I spent 22 years living in this naturally beautiful Australian state.

My childhood was filled with day trips up the coast, hiking in national parks, visiting waterfalls and viewpoints and rock formations. This seemingly tiny state has a surprisingly large number of things to see and do.

Through various conversations about my home state, I realised that many people want to experience the best of Tassie but have no idea how to go about it, so I’m going to share some amazing Tasmania road trip itineraries with you!

How to get to Tasmania:

The easiest way to get to Tasmania from mainland Australia is to fly into Hobart or Launceston (every time I step off the plane in Tasmania I take an alarmingly large breath of the fresh air. There really is nothing else like it!). Once you’ve arrived, rent a car from the airport for driving around the state. A regular small car will do the job – there’s no need for a 4WD or anything.

You can also take your own car across the Bass Strait from Melbourne to Devonport on the Spirit of Tasmania . This is an especially useful option if you own a caravan or campervan and want to use it for your Tassie travels.

When to go to Tasmania:

Tasmania is great at any time of year, but generally speaking, the best travel time is October to March as the temperatures are more tolerable for you mainland folk. Expect large crowds around Christmas and New Year during the Taste of Tasmania festival and the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

Winter in Tasmania can be cold and wet but you can expect this weather any time of year, so be prepared for all weather conditions no matter when you travel. Every time I head down to Hobart to visit my family, I take clothing that I would wear on the coldest winter days in Sydney (no matter what time of year I head down), and I always pack waterproof boots and a rain jacket.

How long does it take to drive around Tasmania:

The number one biggest mistake people make when they visit Tasmania is thinking they can zoom around the state in a few days, but this is impossible unless you only plan to visit one or two destinations. There is so much to see and a million places to explore – you will seriously regret it if you don’t give yourself enough time to see the state properly.

I’ve compiled three recommended itineraries in this post which are 7, 10, and 14 nights. The shortest itinerary involves about 11 hours of driving time, and the longest itinerary is about 23 hours total.  I’ve limited the driving time to a max of 4 hours per day to slow the pace of these Tasmania road trips and make the itinerary manageable for everyone.

Entering Tasmania’s national parks:

All of the following itineraries include entering two or more national parks. If you’re driving around Tasmania, you’ll needs a parks pass each time you enter a park. Get a National Parks Holiday Pass for your vehicle, which costs $80 AUD and allows you to enter all parks over a two month period. This will save you a lot of hassle buying a day pass at each park, and will be much cheaper, too.

Destinations to visit in Tasmania:

• Hobart:  Hobart is Tasmania’s capital and the largest city in the state. From here, you can do day trips to locations such as Richmond, Bruny Island, or the Huon Valley .
• Tasman Peninsula: On the Tasman Peninsula you’ll find the historic Port Arthur convict settlement which is one of Tasmania’s most visited destinations.
• East Coast:  The small towns of Coles Bay and Bicheno are popular spots for accessing Freycinet National Park and the world-famous Wineglass Bay.
• North East Coast:  The township of St Helens is located near the Bay of Fires, which is known for having vibrant turquoise waters and red-tinted rocks.
• Launceston: Launceston is Tasmania’s second largest city. Close by is the popular Tamar Valley wine region and rolling fields of lavender that bloom mid-summer.
• North West:  Stanley is a tiny coastal town with unique geological features. The town of Penguin is also an interesting stop with sculptures themed on its name.
• Cradle Mountain: Cradle Mountain National Park attracts eco-conscious visitors with dramatic scenery and wildlife, located in a remote area far from civilisation.
• Strahan:  On Tasmania’s West Coast is the historic township of Strahan, which is next to stunning natural landscapes in Franklin–Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.
• Midlands:  Mount Field National Park in Tasmania’s midlands is frequented by locals with a range of hikes that visit waterfalls, rainforest, and alpine lakes.

Tasmania guided tour options:

If you just don’t have the time to drive around but still want to see Tasmania, there are a few multi-day tours that will allow you to see the best of the state in a short amount of time. Here are a few options:

• 5-Day Best of Tasmania Tour from Hobart (including Strahan, Cradle Mountain, Launceston & Bicheno)
• 6-Day Tasmanian Explorer Adventure Tour from Hobart (including Port Arthur, Strahan, Cradle Mountain, Launceston & Bicheno)
• 7-Day Super Value Tour of Tasmania (including Strahan, Cradle Mountain, Launceston, Bicheno, Bruny Island & Port Arthur)

Tasmania road trip itineraries:

7 nights – Hobart to Launceston

• 2 nights in Hobart
• 1 night on the Tasman Peninsula
• 2 nights in Coles Bay or Bicheno
• 1 night in Launceston
• 1 night in Cradle Mountain

Total driving time: 11 hours

This itinerary is for those who can only wrangle a week off work and therefore have to travel weekend to weekend. If you can, try to fly into Hobart on a Friday night so that you can make it to Salamanca Market on the Saturday morning.

This Tassie road trip is truly a ‘best of’ itinerary that hits up the flashiest destinations in a short timeframe. You will be happily exhausted by the end of it and will feel like you got to see what Tasmania is all about.

10 nights – Hobart to Hobart

• 2 nights in Coles Bay or Bicheno
• 2 nights in Strahan
• 1 night near Mount Field

Total driving time: 17 hours

With 10 nights in Tasmania, you’ll be able to visit a decent amount of the state including the major cities, the small towns, and the national parks. You can choose to start this loop in either Hobart or Launceston. It’s a fairly comprehensive itinerary but at a reasonably fast pace.

14 nights – Hobart to Hobart

• 3 nights in Hobart
• 1 night in St Helens
• 1 night in Stanley
• 2 nights in Cradle Mountain

Total driving time: 23 hours

If you can manage to get two weeks in Tasmania for your holiday, this is the best way to fill it. On this itinerary, you’ll get to see Tasmania’s best destinations with a little extra time to do it all at a more relaxed pace.

This option is also the best one for those of you coming over on the Spirit of Tasmania, because that boat is fairly expensive and you will want to make the most of the trip over. It’s easy to start and end the loop in Devonport if this is your deal.

Related posts

The best things to do around Port Arthur + the Tasman Peninsula

Wander through the treetops on a Huon Valley day trip from Hobart

10 cheap or free things to do in Hobart

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17 comments

U forgot Bruny Island esp the neck 🙂

True, though we’d have to make it a 3 week trip then! I did add Bruny into my comprehensive local’s guide to Hobart post 🙂

What an excellent article, makes me want to travel to Australia! Glad I found your website 🙂

Thanks so much JP, I’m really glad you like it! You should definitely travel Australia if you get the chance 🙂

I love Tasmania! Since I’m in Melbourne, it’s the perfect long weekend getaway! I haven’t seen it all yet though, so I’ll definitely use your guide here next time I’m heading down for a Tassy adventure. x

Tasmanians and Melbournians swap cities for weekend getaways I think, I used to head there about twice a year for shopping trips and AFL games! There’s definitely a lot to see in Tas, if you need any recommendations let me know 🙂

Oh wow, thanks for this post! 🙂 I just thought about making a road trip in Tasmania as I live in Australia as an Au Pair and wanna see as much as I can 😀 But like you said I had no idea where to start and what to see, though this really helps me. 😀

Cheers, Sanji

Wow, how much time have you got to travel Australia Sanji? It’s a big place, but there’s definitely a few key places worth seeing! If you need any recommendations let me know 😀

Thank you very much for the itenary! My family of 2 adult and a 10 years old girl inted to visit Tas this coming Aug/Sep. Would you suggest us to follow this itenary or make some changes due to the weather? We plan to spen 10 days in Tas and might want to include some ski lessons.

You’re welcome, Loke! If you do the 10 day itinerary and skip St Helens or Launceston, you can ski at Ben Lomond instead. The weather is usually wet around August, but not much you can do about it – take a good raincoat and you’ll be fine!

Hi, is there a fully guided tour for the 10-d itinerary u can recommend with details and price? Tks!

There are a few companies that do some great Tasmania tours – this 12 day Perfect Tasmania tour by Trafalgar is the closest one I can find to the 10 day itinerary! 🙂

Hi. I’ve been looking into doing this by myself. I don’t want to miss out on any of these fantastic places you’ve mentioned so thank you. Is there a chance on seeing the southern lights in any of those places?

That’s great, Cris! I’m so glad you’ll be seeing some of my home state. I’ve seen the southern lights about 2 or 3 times in my lifetime, so it is rare. Sometimes you’ll be able to capture the glow of the lights on the horizon with a long exposure photo, without seeing them with the naked eye. You can read a bit more about my experience photographing them here 🙂

Hello how much is your Hobart to Hobart 14 night self drive holiday & whats included in the price. Thanks. Awaiting your reply.

The 14d program looks good but I was wondering if this is all sealed as most of the campers don’t allow gravel and do you have details on what to do at each place?

We are a fam of 4 travelling at the worst time over late Dec, early Jan for 18d in Tas.

Looking at a campervan and staying at national parks and community or free caravan sites.

Yes the main routes on this itinerary are sealed road, through there are a few places where you will have to venture onto gravel road to access the sites (last time I checked, Freycinet National Park was one). If you’re worried about driving there in a campervan, there may be local tour options that will allow you to see the sites without using those roads. I have more posts on some of the destinations in my Tasmania archives 🙂

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Ultimate Self Drive Tour of Tasmania

Tasmania  is Australia's best-kept secret. This island state is surrounded by stunning turquoise waters and nestled among rugged mountains and wild forests. With over 40 percent of Tasmania consisting of protected national parks, reserves, and World Heritage wilderness, this is a truly wild and wonderful part of Australia to explore in a campervan.

To help you get the most out of your driving holiday in Tasmania, we have created the ultimate 9-day self-drive tour itinerary. So, let’s dive in!

Hobart to Hobart

Best Time of the Year

All year round

• Stefano Lubiana Wines
• Swimming at Honeymoon Bay
• Cradle Mountain Track
• Sunrise at Dove Lake

The Journey

Day 1 Hobart to Eaglehawk Neck

Distance 76km - driving time 1 hour 4 minutes.

First thing’s first, you can pick up your camper from our Hobart branch . Then, once you’re all set up, the first stop on your tour of Tasmania is MONA : the Museum of Old and New Art. Step into the weird and wonderful at this one-of-a-kind museum featuring incredible architecture, delicious eats, and thought-provoking art pieces.

Next up is a stop at Mount Wellington . This mountain towers at a staggering 1271 metres and is the perfect place to go mountain biking, hike, or simply enjoy the views of the city from the top. Finish up the tour of the city with a stop at Salamanca Market . These iconic markets run every Saturday from 8:30 am to 3 pm and are one of the best things to do in Hobart. Featuring anything from fresh produce, artesian goods and homemade products, it's the ideal place to stock up your camper pantry and fridge. After stocking up with food supplies, it’s time to venture out of the city.

On the drive towards Eaglehawk, stop off at Pirates Bay Lookout. From here, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Pirates Bay, Eaglehawk Nest and the wild Tassie coastline. Grab a coffee from Cubed Espresso Bar, a mobile solar-powered, eco espresso bar at the top of the lookout. Great coffee, breathtaking views – what more could you want!

Where to stay:   NRMA Holiday Park

Day 2 Eaglehawk Neck

Distance 76km - driving time 1 hour 6 minutes.

Begin the day by driving to check out Tasmans Arch & Devils Kitchen . After thousands of years of being eroded by the thundering waves of the Tasman sea, these natural bridges are what remain. Park in the car park and follow the 0.8 km track loop to see these impressive natural wonders.

Next, it’s time to explore more of the spectacular Tasmanian Peninsula coastline. What better way than a cruise with local tour guides Damo and Suzy and their  Wild Oceans Cruise. Leaping dolphins, diving sea birds, jaw-dropping dolerite sea cliffs, rugged coastline and swimming playful fur seals are all waiting on this cruise to remember.

After a full day of adventures, head back to your camper and cook up a yummy campervan meal - tired and happy.

Day 3 Eaglehawk Neck to Fortescue Bay

Distance 24.1km - driving time 28 minutes.

Continue the adventure toward the beautiful Fortescue Camping Ground. Surrounded by a wild national park and on the edge of a stunning white sand beach, this has to be one of Tassie's best-kept secrets. Find yourself a powered site, and then grab your backpack for the day hike to Cape Hauy . This is a spectacular track on any day, but on a windless sunny day, it is simply breathtaking. The last section of the walk is reasonably steep, but the first vantage point reveals stunning panoramic views of the cape, the Devil’s Arch, Cape Pillar and Tasman Island. The sea cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula are the tallest in the world, a humbling and wonderful reminder of Mother Nature's grandeur!

Where to stay:   Fortescue Bay Camping

Day 4 Fortescue Bay to Lake St Clair

Distance 280km - driving time 3 hours 43 minutes.

Buckle up and settle in for the ever-changing scenery of forest, towering mountains, rugged wilderness and beautiful fields that backdrop the drive to Lake St Clair. The Lake St Clair Tourist Park is a great spot to park for the night. This campsite is walking distance to the Lake St Clair lodge – the starting and finishing point for the Overland Track hikers and a great spot for a wine and a pub meal.

Spend the afternoon trying one of the popular outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, mountain biking, or wandering over to  Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park to explore. The camping ground is also set on the edge of Lake St Clair - surrounded by dense ancient wild rainforests and rugged alpine heaths. It is as if you are stepping back in time to experience it at its most wild and untamed - this is wild Tasmania at its best.

If you want to treat yourself for one night, why not stay at the unique Lake St Clair  Pumphouse Point hotel. The converted 1940 hydroelectric pump station 250m out on Lake St Clair could be the setting for a Stephen King novel: serene, isolated and mysterious. Nibble on gourmet food and sip on G&Ts overlooking this eerie and beautiful lake.

Where to stay:   Lake St Clair Tourist Park

Day 5 Lake St Clair to Cradle Mountain

Distance 229km - driving time 3 hours 25 minutes.

Next is the world-famous Cradle Mountain , filled with scenic hikes, rugged peaks and wildlife. If your mission is to photograph  Dove Lake for sunrise, be aware that heavy vehicles/motorhomes can not drive into the park. As the first bus doesn’t depart till 8 am, you can alternatively make the 10 km trek into the park with a very early start of 4.30 am. This is the perfect way to start the day and to ensure you nab a great shot of Dove Lake and the famous Cradle Mountain in the background. You also may see some cheeky wombats on the walk back!

Once you have finished exploring the park, head to the Devils@Cradle Tasmanian devil sanctuary . This is one of the best places to see these unique threatened marsupials. Be sure to join the evening feeding tour to see them at their most lively.

Park up for the night at the Cradle Moutain Discovery Campgrounds. This is the perfect excuse to enjoy a home-cooked meal in the camper. This location is known for its typical tourist prices for food, campsites, etc., so expect costs to be higher than elsewhere in Tassie.

Where to stay:   Cradle Mountain Holiday Park

Day 6 Cradle Mountain to Bay of Fires

Distance 318km - driving time 4 hours 28 minutes.

After a stop-off en route at the unique ‘Little Blue Lake’, it's time to explore the Bay of Fires . This slice of coastal heaven is easily spotted by its aqua blue waters, white sandy beaches and, of course, the iconic bright orange lichen-covered boulders. Spend a few hours wandering across the rocks, taking a dip in the cool water of the Tasman Sea and relaxing on the beach. If you have time to stay another night, definitely try and grab one of the free camping spots. These are in prime position to catch the sunrise over the famous bay and will be rewarded with breathtaking colours. Otherwise, continue south towards St Helens for the evening.

Where to stay: Big4 St Helens Holiday Park

Day 7 Bay of Fires to Wineglass Bay

Distance 143km - driving time 2 hours 12 minutes.

Begin with an early morning drive south into  Freycinet National Park for the hike to the top of Mt Amos. It is worth getting to the Wineglass Bay car park early as there is limited parking and spaces fill up quickly! This hike is only 4 km but is practically vertical. As it is very steep in parts, prepare to be (literally) on your hands and knees crawling up rock faces. Despite the strenuous climb, the reward at the top is worth it as you soak up the stunning panoramic views of the gorgeous Wineglass Bay, turquoise water, bright white beach, and lush green wilderness – simply sensational. The perfect spot for a bite of lunch, a photo opportunity and a stretch of those hamstrings!

If hiking a near-vertical rock face is not your idea of a good time, why not jump aboard  Wineglass Bay Cruises and experience this iconic bay from a different vantage point. For $145 per person, you can enjoy unforgettable views, air-conditioned lounges and a delicious spread of local cuisine.

Grab a powered camping site at Iluka Holiday Centre for the night. This camping spot is close to the beach, has great barbecue and campsite facilities and is within walking distance to the general store and local pub.

Where to stay:  Big4 lluka on Freycinet Holiday Park

Day 8 Wineglass Bay to Seven Mile Beach

Distance 185km - driving time 2 hours 32 minutes.

Before returning to Hobart, it's time to kick back and unwind by Seven Mile Beach . The Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park is a great spot directly across from the beach - rugged, beautiful and practically deserted. It's the perfect spot to relax and unwind before bringing this Tasmanian self-drive tour to a close the following day. The holiday park is close to the airport (only 2.5 km), but you still feel like you are off the beaten track and surrounded by nature.

Where to stay:   Seven Mile Beach Caravan Park

Day 9 Seven Mile Beach to Hobart

Distance 20.8km - driving time 23 minutes.

When you return to Hobart, take a stroll through the  Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens and any final Tasmanian attractions you may still have on your list. Then, drop off your camper from our  Hobart branch and head home.

Ready to book your own Tasmanian adventure?

Tasmania  is a compact little southern state bustling with beautiful scenery and epic adventures. If you are seeking beautiful white sandy beaches, culture, hikes, delicious food and wine, a driving holiday through Tasmania is for you!

Ready to rent a travel van for your own 9-day Tasmania adventure? Check out our  range of campervans and book your motorhome today . Looking to travel for a different length of time? Check out our more compact  5-day Tasmania itinerary and our longer 15-day Tasmanian road trip itinerary  for more inspiration for your upcoming Australian road trip.

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Tassy Tour – 9 Day Road Trip in Tasmania

When we planned our visit to Australia last year, we made sure we reserved enough days for Tasmania too! Many of our friends said it was a waste of time. But we love all things natural like waterfalls, coasts and mountains and didn’t care much for large cities. So we decided to explore this place for hidden gems and we simply fell in love with Tassie! Here is our 9 day road trip in Tasmania!

How to Get to Tasmania

Tasmania is an island south of Australia, the size of Florida, population 500,000.  You can fly to Hobart or Launceston from Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane, or take the ferry from Melbourne (9 and half hours). We flew Melbourne-Launceston (Launnie!!) in an hour.

Where to Stay and What to Eat in Tasmania

In a relatively small area, say Wales, we make a central location our base and make day trips to see the sights. This would not work in Tasmania during our 1,700 KM journey.

We prefer rural B&Bs, hotels being the second choice. Aussies are friendly and hospitable, a smile and hello from any stranger, and a cheery “no worries, mate” response to “thank you”.  B&Bs are cosy and comfortable, and breakfasts are very generous.

Aussie food is broadly English.  Breakfast, particularly in B&Bs, is “full”.  There are several choices for other meals – soup/bread, pub fare, Chinese, and Indian – available in almost every village.

Here’s our route:

Day 1 – Launceston to Wynyard

We reached Launceston at mid-day and set off on a 165 KM drive to Wynyard on the north coast in our rented car. Tasmania has excellent roads with light traffic. Watch out for wildlife on the roads, though!  If you hit one you will probably kill it and damage your car, too.

A warning – Google maps may not work due to uncertain coverage. Try to carry two cell-phones supported by different telecom companies and have a good map as backup.

Wynyard is a small seaside town with just one main street lined with cafes and shops. Our rural B&B was a farm teeming with ducks, chickens and friendly dogs, with wide expanses of open land all around to gaze at from our little sit-out. When exploring the town we encountered friendly smiles and ended up with a sumptuous dinner of home cooked chicken and vegetables. We heard of the beaches, fishing, swimming and kayaking that attracted tourists to Wynyard, but alas, those were not for us.

Day 2 – Wynyard

We timed our Wynyard visit to the tulip season. Vast fields exploded in the vivid colors of long rows of blooming tulips. Walking amongst this splendour, surrounded by green and brown fields with a glimpse of the sea in the horizon was a wondrous experience for us city dwellers who are used to seeing flowers in vases.

Nearby was the Table Cape lighthouse standing watch over the blue Tasman sea. A lovely walk along the seaside cliff and around Table Cape made it a beautiful day out.

Day 3 – Wynyard to Cradle Mountain

The tulip fields enticed us back the next morning.  Finally, we tore ourselves away and drove due south to Cradle Mountain . The hilly and curvaceous road ran up and down through shaded gorges emerging suddenly into bright sunshine.  Bikers and cars love this spectacular scenic route. Speed limits in Tassy are generous but beware, speeding fines are very heavy!

En route, we stopped at the Hellyer gorge for a couple of lovely walks starting from the Hellyer River.  The Cradle Mountain lies in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Like other national parks visitors need a permit. When touring it makes sense to buy a 15-day, all parks pass, rather than pay at each park separately.

Day 4 – Cradle Mountain

We set off for the Cradle Mountain , so named because from afar the two main peaks look like a baby’s cradle. We left our car at the Visitors’ Center and took the shuttle bus that crawled on a narrow road, letting us take in the lovely expanse of unspoiled countryside. We saw a cute wallaby by the roadside. We stopped near Dove Lake for a stunning view of the ‘cradle’ mountains and trudged off to explore.

Dove Lake lies at the foot of the Cradle Mountains. The still water reflects the peaks and the colors change as clouds fleet over the mountain peaks.  All around are some of Tasmania’s best walking tracks, some easy for folks like us, and others for the true experts.

Day 5 – Queenstown

Continuing south, we missed out on Strahan’s famous river cruises because of rain and drove to nearby Queenstown , a sleepy, picture postcard town that was once the world’s richest mining town. Its glorious past is still visible in many quaint old buildings.

The main highway (Lyell) to Hobart runs right across Tasmania. Just outside Queenstown, atop a hill, is a marvellous lookout spot with a lovely panoramic view of Queenstown and rolling, multi-coloured hills in every direction – grateful for our 9X binoculars!

Further down the highway is “ Iron Blow ”, a not-to-be-missed spot presenting a unique sight, a deep pit filled with azure water. Looking down into it from the cantilevered lookout point can make you dizzy, but the view all around is spectacular.

We drove on alongside Lake Burbury, a picturesque lake with many lovely views particularly from a bridge that spans a narrow neck of the lake. You can fish, go boating, have a picnic or a barbecue, or just enjoy the lake’s serene beauty.

Next came the cascading Nelson Falls . A flat, wide boardwalk to the falls runs alongside the Nelson river through a little rain forest, charming in its own right. You will hear the waterfall as you walk and suddenly you will see a 100 foot wall of water shaped like an inverted wine glass, sparkling in the sunlight. If you close your eyes and listen, the sound of the cascading water will change as you tilt your head up or down.

We drove on eastwards hoping to find a nice place to settle down for the night.  Eventually we reached our rural B&B – Hamlet Downs Country Accommodation in rural Fentonbury – perfect place which has home-made dinner options too!

Day 6 – Russell falls and Kingston

The next day morning, we set out to explore the Mountfield National Park. The Russell falls, just a short walk from the visitor centre was a pleasure to visit – a picturesque multi-tiered waterfall!

We drove further, beyond Hobart, to Kingston and Blackman’s bay. Located about 3 kms from Kingston, Blackman’s Bay has a beautiful beach and a blowhole. Viewed from above, the waves surging in and out of the deep channel was a pretty scene.

Day 7 – East Coast Attractions

We continued driving north-east to explore the magnificent East coast of Tasmania.

Our first stop was Devil’s Corner – The Cellar door and lookout.  A climb up a little tower revealed a sweeping view across the Moulting Lagoon, all the way to the distant Hazards mountains at Coles Bay. Despite the chilling wind we sat on benches outside a nice café and sipped a glass of wine while admiring the magnificent view across the lake, and the play of sun and shade on the rippling water.

Further North came the  Freycinet National Park  – a lovely combo of pink granite mountains (the Hazards) jutting into turquoise bays lined with white beaches, and a eucalyptus forest adorning the land.

The courteous staff at the Visitors’ Center told us of the choice of walks and drives to several bays. The most challenging walk was the mile-long journey to the beautiful  Wineglass bay, very aptly named.   Sleepy Bay and Honeymoon Bay are more options to visit.

We were glad to have stopped at Cape Tourville Lighthouse and lookout, reached after a steep 15 minute drive and a short walk. All around are sweeping views over the Tasman Sea from various angles during our stroll on the boardwalk along the cliff edge.

Further north lies Bicheno , a popular holiday destination renowned for its blowhole which was dormant at the time of our visit!  It was getting dark, so we hurried to our B&B at St Mary’s.

Day 8 – More to See in the East Coast

We drove to Pyengana Dairy  in the beautiful Pyengana Valley which produces specialty cheeses from the milk of free range cows. It was fun to watch the cows line up to be milked and enjoy their automatic back-scratcher!!

St. Columba Falls , a 300 foot waterfall, was amazing. Not content with the distant view from the car park we ventured on the lovely walk to the falls through the rainforest that clings to a gorge. The beauty of waterfall kept us energized on the steep climb back !

Back on the coastal drive northwards, we passed the deep blue Binalong Bay  to reach the stark beauty of the Bay of Fires ! The rocks were covered with bright orange lichen which stand out against the turquoise blue sea – an amazing sight.

Day 9 – Launceston

Launceston was our last stop in Tassie.

We visited the Cataract Gorge – unusual to have a magnificent gorge almost right at the city centre. It has an outdoor swimming pool (seasonal), chairlift and lovely gardens where peacocks strut. There are walking tracks and lookouts too.

If you are a car buff, do visit the Automobile/Transport Museum to check out the vintage cars and bikes.

Finally, we drove North to Low Head , the northernmost end of Tasmania located at the mouth of the Tamar river. It has Australia’s oldest light house and pilot station (still operative). A beautiful but windy spot to gaze sitting in Coxwain’s café over a nice cup of coffee and quiche.

We flew back to Melbourne the next morning, carrying lovely memories supported by great photos, determined to come again.  Goodbye, Tassie – until next time! Yes, we loved this tour so much that we want to do another driving tour soon.

Disclaimer:  Some of the links on this website are “affiliate links.” This means that if you click on the link and do a purchase, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost for you. This helps me keep my website running and continue to share my traveling knowledge with you. I thank you for booking your flights or hotels using the links on my website. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers.

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Traveler. Dreamer. Cat lover. Wondering around the world with my backpack and my camera. Contributing to make the world a better place.

38 thoughts on “ Tassy Tour – 9 Day Road Trip in Tasmania ”

Beautiful trip that comes with beautiful photos. I would love to see this place for real in the future.

Wow this looks like it was an incredible trip filled with gorgeous scenery. Thank you so much for sharing.

I didn’t know that Tasmania is just near our country! I love that there’s a lot of natural places that you can visit. I love the flowers and fields. Thanks for this informative guide!

I need a roadtrip right now.I would love a 9 day one at that so I need to get to planning.

Wow – what an exciting tour! I’m a huge fan of road trips – however, I’m doing them on public transport, so that might be an issue in Tasmania. Sadly, due to the current situation, I don’t have to worry about it right now, anyway….

wow! This seems like a once in a lifetime experience. I would love to visit there. Hopefully, this epidemic ends soon.

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Tasmania Explorer

Self Drive Tasmania: Perfect Tasmania Itinerary 10 days✅

Excited to self drive Tasmania and looking for the best Tasmania itinerary 10 days? Perfect! We are going to give you exactly that in this self drive Tasmania 10 days exact plan especially made for your next trip.

Tasmania is a fabulous destination to explore by car. The state boasts great local food and wine, numerous historical sites and vast national parks and natural wonders, with much of the state being protected national park.

Your Tasmania self drive holiday itinerary below includes all of this and more, and we believe 10 days is a great amount of time to spend exploring. The state is rather spread out, and by driving from place to place on the easy (and relatively low trafficked) roads, you’ll have the freedom to see the best of Tasmania.

When planning Tasmania holidays, self drive options are very popular. This is because Tasmania is a state made to be explored by your own vehicle whether that’s a rental car or your own. Public buses only run between the main places and you’ll want to see more than this! You’ll love the freedom that comes with a self drive Tasmania itinerary.

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

To help you come up with your perfect Tasmania self drive itinerary, below we give you exactly this! It’s designed for 10 days in Tasmania and there are also some suggestions if you would prefer a Tasmania 9 day itinerary.

Going for a shorter period? You can find our best 4-5 day itinerary for Tasmania here or our 7 day itinerary for Tasmania here . If you have a bit longer, you may prefer to read our 14 day itinerary for Tasmania self drive here .

So keep reading for your day-by-day, step-by-step 10 days Tasmania self drive itinerary which includes stops, driving times and accommodation suggestions. There is also a 10 days Tasmania itinerary map so you can better picture the route you will be taking.

Note this self drive itinerary Tasmania is on the fast side – it assumes you want to experience as much as possible and get a great taste of Tasmania on your trip. If you like to take things easier, I recommend removing a destination or two or removing some of the stops between places. Just read through and remove the ones from your Tasmania 10 day itinerary that sound least interesting to you.

This trip is suitable for couples, friends, solo travellers and families. If you have young kids, I recommend removing some stops to make it a bit easier however.

Finally, if you have any questions about this Tasmania self drive itinerary blog, let us know in the comments below – we are happy to help you in this ultimate Tasmania tours self drive option!

Click here to download your free Tasmania Road 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.

• 1.1 Overview
• 2 Tasmania Self Drive Map: 10 days In Tasmania
• 3.1 Where To Stay In Hobart
• 3.2 Car Hire
• 3.3 Mt Wellington
• 3.4 Battery Point
• 3.5 Salamanca Place and Hobart’s Waterfront
• 4.2 Richmond
• 4.3 Richmond Gaol
• 4.4 Old Hobart Town Model Village
• 5.1 Where To Stay In Strahan
• 5.2 Lake St Clair
• 5.3 West Coast Reflections
• 6.1 Gordon River Cruise
• 6.2 Ocean Beach
• 6.3 West Strahan Beach
• 7.1 Where To Stay At Cradle Mountain
• 7.2 West Coast Wilderness Railway
• 7.3 Devils@Cradle
• 8.1 Cradle Mountain
• 9.1 Where To Stay In Launceston
• 9.2 Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm
• 9.3 Tasmania Zoo
• 9.4 Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre
• 10.1 Where To Stay At Coles Bay
• 10.2 Cataract Gorge
• 10.3 Freycinet Marine Farm
• 10.4 Wineglass Bay
• 11.1 Where To Stay At Port Arthur
• 11.2 Port Arthur Historic Site
• 12.1 Doo Town
• 12.2 Blow Hole and Tessellated Pavement
• 13 9 Days Tasmania Itinerary
• 14.1 Related posts:

Perfect Self Drive Tasmania Itinerary 10 days

Remember, this is a full Tasmania 10 day road trip. If you have fewer days, simply pick the days that most appeal – there are more tips for less days below. For more days, read our itinerary here .

Days 1-2 explore Hobart Day 3 drive to Strahan stopping at the Lake St Clair part of the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park Day 4 explore the west coast from Strahan Days 5-6 drive to Cradle Mountain and exploring the Dove Lake area at Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park Day 7 head to Launceston Day 8 hike to famous Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park Day 9 explore Tasmania’s convict heritage at Port Arthur Historic Site Day 10 finish in Hobart

The highlights of these self drive tours Tasmania are:

• Walk through the streets of Richmond and Battery Point on a heritage trail
• See the best of Hobart including Mt Wellington, Mona and Salamanca Place
• See the renowned river reflections on a Gordon River Cruise and the beautiful beaches at Strahan
• Ride the historic West Coast Wilderness Railway through an ancient world heritage listed forest
• Explore Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake
• Sample Tasmania’s famous wine and produce in the Tamar Valley and visit the mining Heritage Centre in Beaconsfield
• Hike an easy track and take in the scenery at the famous Wineglass Bay
• Explore the heritage listed Port Arthur Historic Site and sail the harbour on a cruise

This one of our Tasmania self drive tours is designed to start and finish in Hobart, but you can start and finish from any point.

If you are starting at the Spirit of Tasmania and looking for a self drive Tasmania itinerary from Devonport, I recommend you start on Day 7 and drive straight to Launceston when disembarking. Once you hit day 10, start over on day one and finish up at Cradle Mountain before driving back to Devonport.

If you are looking for a family 10 day road trip Tasmania, this also works great for families but with younger kids, I definitely recommend slowing it down.

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

Tasmania Self Drive Map: 10 days In Tasmania

The following map shows you the route this 10 day Tasmania road trip takes around the state. You get to discover the main regions.

Day 1: Arriving in Hobart

Welcome to Hobart! This is the beginning of your itinerary Tasmania in 10 days, and today you’ll explore the capital of Tasmania.

As today is your first day in Hobart, you’ll take it pretty easy.

• Arrive in Hobart and collect your hire car. There are many hire car companies at the airport.
• Head straight to the top of Mount Wellington to see the city and understand the layout.
• Have lunch.
• Check- in to your hotel.
• Explore Battery Point on a heritage walk, then make your way to Salamanca Place and Hobart’s Waterfront.
• Choose one of the many restaurants for dinner. For excellent seafood, try Drunken Admirals.

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.

I recommend you 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 after you enter the dates and location, enter: TASEXPLORE for the “Discount Code”.

They are located in both Hobart and Launceston.

You can also find other car hire options here .

Mt Wellington

Mt Wellington (which is officially known as kunanyi) is iconic in Hobart and can be seen from all around the city. It is the first stop on your Tasmania self drive itinerary 10 days.

Driving from the airport to Hobart takes about 20 minutes, and then it’s a further 30 minute drive to the top of Mt Wellington. It’s a relatively easy drive to the top, with many places along the way to stop, take a walk and take photos of the view. The Springs is a popular place to stop and get a coffee, take a walk and use the bathroom.

Continuing up the mountain, you’ll reach the pinnacle where there’s a sheltered observation deck with signs to acquaint you with the city. The view from here really is stunning, and it’s a great place to become familiar with the layout of Hobart. There are also outdoor observation decks, as well as walks and rocks to climb.

It’s worth noting that this is a mountain and as such it can be very cold (dress warmly) and some days can be cloudy obscuring the views. However I still think it’s worth the drive up for the many walks and the fresh mountain air.

Address: Wellington Park TAS 7054

Battery Point

Battery Point is a historic inner city suburb of Hobart, and the best way to explore it is on a heritage walk. You can find a guide to this walk here .

There are many points of interest and you can check to see which ones interest you. I suggest starting at Salamanca Place (you’ll return there afterwards) and taking the historic Kelly Steps (which were built in 1840) and exploring Battery Point from here.

Points of particular interest include the trendy cafes, shops and restaurants on Hampden Road (including Narryna Heritage Museum), Arthurs Circus and Princes Park.

The streets are very pretty with historic cottages and the cafes are a great place to stop for a coffee.

Battery Point is where we live and I’m sure you’ll quickly love it as much as us.

Salamanca Place and Hobart’s Waterfront

After exploring the streets of Battery Point, return to Salamanca Place and see the lined sandstone buildings which have been converted to trendy shops, bars and restaurants.

If you’re looking for souvenirs the shops here sell excellent products Tasmania is famed for (like woodwork, fudge, wine etc), and there are numerous trendy bars to stop for a drink later on. This is where the best bars in Hobart are located.

After exploring Salamanca Place and Salamanca Square, start making your way to Parliament House Gardens and then cross the street to Hobart’s Waterfront.

The waterfront is usually crowded with sailing boats and some nights a food market is held. Enter the floating pontoon at Brook Street Pier, see the converted warehouses near MACq01, explore Mawson’s Huts replica museum and take a photo of the old steam crane.

When the hunger pangs start hitting, there are plenty of places to go for dinner on the waterfront and in Salamanca. This area is known for its excellent fresh seafood, and a particularly good place to sample it is Drunken Admiral. Booking ahead is recommended.

There are plenty of other choices however, including the floating takeaway shops and many other restaurants nearby.

Day 2: Enjoying Hobart

Day 2 of this road trip in Tasmania is all about seeing more of Hobart.

• Start the day at MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). You can either take a ferry from the waterfront or drive (about a 15 minute drive)
• Head in the direction of Richmond and eat lunch at a restaurant nearby (I recommend Coal River Farm).
• Explore the town of Richmond and then return to Hobart and have dinner in Salamanca Place (Richmond is about 30 minutes from Hobart).

Read our full guide to Hobart here.

MONA is a world renowned museum built by the eccentric David Walsh, and it’s the only must see museum on your Tasmania travel itinerary 10 days.

You have two options of getting here – you can drive or take a ferry. The ferry is a nice 30 minute journey where you can take in the Derwent River views on the way. However if you’re heading to Richmond afterwards, I’d recommend driving.

MONA is impressive for several reasons. Firstly, it’s located on the grounds of a winery and mostly located under the ground, etched into the sandstone. It’s also home to a wealth of artwork, and some particularly interesting and strange pieces can be found here.

You can download the Mona O app to your phone which is like your own tour guide so that you can read and listen tot things which interest you (and ignore the things that don’t).

The museum is set over several floors and some exhibits are interactive making it great for visiting with kids. When we visited there was an interesting maze, a room with TV sets and people singing (which was oddly uncomfortable) and a Poop Machine (to show how strange the exhibits can be)!

You can also find a library and various bars and eating options as well as a big grassy area outside and a playground.

There are also historical artifacts to be found here from an Egyptian sarcophagus and other artwork from the past. Some exhibitions do require an extra ticket but most things are included in the price of entry.

You can pre-purchase tickets online, and it really is an interesting (albeit sometimes strange) place which I highly recommend visiting.

Address: 655 Main Rd, Berriedale TAS 7011

Richmond is a pretty historic town about 30 minutes from Hobart. This is a popular place to visit for both tourists and locals, and the town features colonial style architecture, Australia’s oldest stone span bridge, churches, museums, cafes and galleries.

Richmond is very easy to explore on foot, and you can find a range of places to buy souvenirs, stop for coffee and do and see some interesting things. If you’re visiting with kids, we recommend adding a visit to the Pooseum to your list, a museum which features a variety of animal poo!

Two attractions we recommend are detailed below.

Richmond Gaol

Tasmania’s gaols are important historical relics when it comes to early colonial history, and Richmond Gaol is one of the oldest and a very interesting place to explore.

The gaol is on the small side and it’s easy to explore in under an hour. You are free to do a self guided tour using the information boards and the map, and there are sound effects to add to your experience.

The buildings of the gaol feature the main gaol building where convicts were housed, a cook’s house, solitary confinement cells, the women’s quarters and the flogging yard. There are several historical artifacts on show, and you can enter the solitary confinement cells for an insight into the experience of being in solitary confinement.

Whilst it’s only a small gaol, as the oldest intact convict gaol in Australia, it’s definitely worth seeing.

Address: 37 Bathurst St, Richmond TAS 7025

Click here to read our full review.

Old Hobart Town Model Village

If you’re interested in what Hobart would have looked like in the 1820’s, a visit to the Old Hobart Town Model Village is a must. This large model village is an interesting place to explore and is like looking through a window back in time.

This clever model village took several years to construct with the builder studying records carefully to offer a true picture of Hobart in the 1820s.

You can walk around looking at the model and read descriptions of buildings and what life was like in Hobart during that time. Street names are given to add context to today and it’s very interesting to see just how much the city has evolved since then.

A lot of thought has been put into the model village and there are some funny, stereotypical human figures to spot making it interesting for kids (and adults) to see what they can find. There’s also a good gift shop here.

Address: 21a Bridge St, Richmond TAS 7025

Day 3: Lake St Clair And Strahan

Driving Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

It’s time to head out of Hobart on this 10 day itinerary Tasmania and explore the central highlands and west coast.

• Have breakfast in Salamanca and then head to Lake St Clair Visitor Centre (takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes)
• Have lunch, take a look at the Visitor Centre and then go for a walk. I suggest taking the Watersmeet Walk and then heading to Platypus Bay if you would like more.
• Continue driving to Strahan (takes about 2 hours)
• Visit the West Coast Visitor Centre and see the West Coast Reflections museum (note it closes at 4pm)
• Have dinner. We recommend Bushman’s Bar and Cafe. It’s best to book ahead as there can be a shortage of places to eat in Strahan.

Where To Stay In Strahan

• BEST – Aloft Boutique Accommodation ( See latest prices here )
• MIDRANGE – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat ( See latest prices here )
• BUDGET – Motel Strahan ( See latest prices here )

Click here for more Strahan accommodation options.

Lake St Clair

The first stop outside of Hobart on your Tasmania suggested itinerary 10 days is at the southern end of Lake St Clair. Not only is this a great place to stretch your legs after a long drive, but it’s a stunning location and perfect for a short walk.

On the premises is a large visitors centre where you can get some information on the walks and see a small museum. There’s also toilet facilities and a restaurant (however when we visited they stopped serving lunch at 1:30pm).

You can start your walk at Cynthia Bay and there are many long walks you can do. However the best walks for this itinerary are the Watersmeet Walk and Platypus Bay. They can be combined if you have the stamina for more and take between 30 minutes to 2 hours return.

The setting really is stunning, and you’ll see the famous waratah along the path. I recommend walking back to the visitor centre by the beach, where you can see the calm lake and spot Pumphouse Point in the distance.

You need a national park pass to visit this park, as well as many other parks. You can purchase one pass for your entire trip at Lake St Clair, or pre-purchase online here .

West Coast Reflections

Located on the waterfront of Strahan is the West Coast Visitor Information Centre, and here is where you’ll find the West Coast Reflections museum.

Set over two floors, this small museum offers information on the history of the area and its people, important historical events (like the Franklin Dam controversy) and the life of convicts, early settlers and indigenous Australians.

For a small museum, there’s a lot of information here and it gives a good background of sites you may soon see (like the Gordon River and Sarah Island). Entry is cheap ($2 for adults, $1 for kids).

The West Coast Visitors Centre also hosts the play ‘The Ship That Never Was’ – a story of how convicts hijacked a ship in Macquarie Harbour. This is an entertaining and popular play to see and runs for about an hour and 15 minutes. It’s worth considering if you’re looking for things to do at night in Strahan.

Day 4: Strahan

On this day of the 10 days in Tasmania itinerary, get ready for some stunning scenery on the Gordon River

• Take a stunning Gordon River cruise and visit Sarah Island
• Stretch your legs with a walk along Ocean Beach or West Strahan Beach

Gordon River Cruise

A Gordon River cruise is a fabulous way to spend a day in Strahan and takes most the day. The two main cruise lines you can book with are World Heritage Cruises and Gordon River Cruises. We cruised with Gordon River Cruises.

The day starts at the cruise terminal on the waterfront (which is close to the West Coast Visitor Centre). This is quite a large building with a lot of souvenirs for purchase. We then boardered the cruise and were taken to our seats ready for the journey.

On board, there is a cafe, an outdoor area at the front of the boat where you can take in the amazing scenery and regular entertaining videos giving some information on the area and history of early colonial life here. Macquarie Harbour is actually the largest natural port in Australia!

The boat switches on its electric motor when on the Gordon River for a quiet cruise experience to truly experience the peace of this area. It really is a beautiful part of the world.

The first stop is Heritage Landing, where you can either walk with a tour guide or alone. The track is very easy and only a short walk. There’s probably enough time to circle it twice.

You’re then served a delicious buffet lunch on board with a focus on Tasmanian produce.

Next you make your way to Sarah Island which was an infamous penal settlement. Most of the structures are in ruins, but you can see where they once stood, and the island is very pretty to explore. Again, you can see it as part of a tour or walk unguided.

The boat has two deck options – Main Deck and Premium Upper Deck. We sat in the Main Deck and opted for a window seat which was very comfortable. Premium Upper Deck also includes morning tea, it’s own viewing deck and also an open bar.

The cruise really is a relaxing and scenic way to spend a day, and if conditions are right, you may be lucky enough to see the famous water reflections caused by the tannin water.

Address: 24 Esplanade, Strahan TAS 7468

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Ocean Beach

Strahan has some lovely beaches and whilst the weather is not always ideal for swimming, it’s still worth taking a walk along one. Ocean Beach is just a 10 minute drive from the town centre and down a dirt road to the car park.

The beach itself is huge and long, and you could spend a long time walking here (or swimming in the warmer months). You can also drive your suitably equipped car or 4WD on it!

There’s a sign when you arrive which states that looking out to the ocean, the next landmass is the southern tip of South America! Thus some days you can expect some strong winds (known as the Roaring 40’s) and some big waves.

West Strahan Beach

West Strahan Beach is just a small beach located in the town centre and an easy place to take a walk or swim. It may even be within walking distance of the place you’re staying.

The beach has a rather secluded feel and it’s interesting to see this pocket of sand as it’s not located on the oceanfront.

The water is just like that of the Gordon River – darkened by the natural tannin and suitable for swimming. There’s also a playground for kids.

Read our full guide to Strahan here.

Day 5: Wilderness Adventures

Driving Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

On this day of your Tasmania road trip 10 days, get ready to see some amazing wilderness.

• Take a trip on the amazing West Coast Wilderness Railway (note this doesn’t always run daily so you may need to switch it with the Gordon River cruise on day 4)
• Drive to your accommodation at Cradle Mountain. This is quite a scenic drive
• Get close to Tasmania’s most famous animal with an after dark feeding tour at Devils@Cradle

Where To Stay At 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 )

West Coast Wilderness Railway

Today, you’ll witness the engineering marvel which is the West Coast Wilderness Railway, as well as experience the tranquility and ruggedness of the ancient cold temperate rainforest.

The train departs from both Regatta Point Station at Strahan and Queenstown Station in Queenstown. There are several types of tours you can do taking either a half or full day. If you can, I recommend a full day tour which takes you to Lowana Yard, through the historic rainforest to Teepookana and Lower Landing and other stops on the way to Queenstown. However a half-day tour is a great option too and will take you as far as Dubbil Barril.

There are various activities at each stop, like walks (guided or unguided), honey sampling, panning for gold etc. At Queenstown you can purchase additional activities like river rafting.

There are two carriages to choose from – Heritage and Wilderness. Wilderness is fully catered and includes an open balcony. Heritage is comfortable and allows you to purchase snacks and drinks.

There are cafes at both stations, and the journey is a wonderful way to spend a day appreciating this unique part of the world.

Address: 62 Esplanade, Strahan TAS 7468

Devils@Cradle

After you’ve settled in to your hotel at Cradle Mountain, I recommend an after dark tour at the Devils@Cradle wildlife sanctuary.

These tours run daily between 5:30pm – 8:30pm and take about an hour and 15 minutes. This is the best time to see Tasmanian devils as they are mostly a nocturnal animal.

The main event of the tour is the feeding which is a very interesting (and somewhat violent) thing to see (and hear!) for kids and adults.

You’ll also get to see other animals like the spotted-tailed quoll and the eastern quoll too.

As this is a wildlife sanctuary that helps in the conservation of the threatened Tasmanian devil, your visit also helps in the conservation efforts so it’s something you can feel good about. After dark tours really are the best way to see the Tasmanian devil!

Address: 3950 Cradle Mountain Rd, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306

Day 6: Cradle Mountain

On this day of the 10 day driving itinerary Tasmania, you explore the Cradle Mountain part of Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park.

• Drive to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre after packing a lunch
• From here, take a shuttle bus to Dove Lake
• Explore this region, picking a hike that suits your taste and ability

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is a must see spot when you are in this part of the world, and today you’ll explore this beautiful area.

Your visit will start from the visitors centre where there is a shop, a cafe and where you can get some information on the park and it’s walks. This is also where you get your shuttle bus ticket (note if you already purchased a national park pass, this ticket is free but must be picked up from here).

You then make your way to the shuttle bus stop. Buses are frequent, arriving every 10-15 minutes, although how long they run changes during different seasons.

There are several walks you can do, and the bus makes several stops along the way where you are free to hop off and on, until it reaches Dove Lake. From here I recommend the Dove Lake walk which takes about 2.5 hours return but is very easy, mostly flat and mostly on a boardwalk. Crater Lake is also a good option taking about 2 hours.

If you’re visiting with kids or if a long walk doesn’t interest you, it’s easy to visit Dove Lake to take in the scenery (and some photos) and then catch the shuttle to another part of the park to take an easier walk. A good option is the Enchanted Walk – a very easy 20 minute track – or the Pencil Pine Falls and Rainforest Walk which takes just 10 minutes and runs through a rainforest and past a waterfall.

Of course, this is a spot where you can spend as much or as little time are you please. I recommend having some idea of what you want to do before you visit. You can plan your walk here.

Day 7: Launceston And Tamar Valley

Driving Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

In this part of the road trip Tasmania 10 days adventure, you drive on to Tasmania’s second biggest city, Launceston after exploring some of the Tamar Valley.

• Leave Cradle Mountain early to have a delicious breakfast at Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm in Elizabeth Town (approx driving time about 1 hour 15 minutes)
• Head to Tasmania Zoo to check out Tasmania’s wildlife (approx driving time about 35 minutes)
• Pick a winery for lunch. We recommend Iron Pot Bay Vineyard (approx driving time about 35 minutes)
• Drive to the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre (approx driving time about 15 minutes)
• Head to your accommodation in Launceston

Where To Stay In Launceston

• BEST – Peppers Silo ( See latest prices here )
• MIDRANGE – Best Western Plus Launceston ( See latest prices here )
• BUDGET – Village Family Motor Inn ( See latest prices here )

Read our full guide to Launceston accommodation here.

Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm

Tasmania has some fantastic berry farms and one of the places to sample the finest raspberries is the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm.

This pretty farm includes a good shop, farm animals on site and the main cafe. You can also take a walk by the lake and there are activities to keep kids entertained. The cafe is popular, particularly around lunch time. I recommend calling ahead of time to make a booking.

Raspberries are, of course, seasonal but their dishes are served year round (from frozen and freeze dried raspberries). There are plenty of raspberry dessert dishes on offer here including drinks (like white hot chocolate and raspberry) as well as savoury main meals.

Some of the animals you’ll see on the farm include wallabies and alpacas, and you can also do some free raspberry tastings. It’s a great place to stop for lunch.

Address: 9 Christmas Hills Rd, Elizabeth Town TAS 7304

Click here to read our full guide to Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm.

Tasmania Zoo

Just a 25 minute drive from Launceston is Tasmania Zoo. This is a great place to spend a few hours, and with over 1000 individual animals and 100 species calling the zoo home, there is plenty of variety here.

The zoo is home to native Tasmanian animals, other native Australian animals and rare wildlife species from around the globe. One of the reasons this zoo is popular is because it’s home to the Black Crested Macaque (the only zoo in Australia to host one).

Other animals include the Tasmanian Devil, the Sumatran Tiger, the Red Panda, the Eastern Grey Kangaroo and many more.

The bush setting is a nice place to spend some time, and with a cafe and BBQ areas, you could also opt to have lunch here. There are also feeding machines where kids (and adults) can feed some of the animals, and you can watch other animals being fed at times.

Address: 1166 Ecclestone Rd, Riverside TAS 7250

Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre

The Beaconsfield Mine was made infamous in 2006 when two of its miners became stuck, with a successful rescue effort that took two weeks. Today, the mine is no longer active, and has been given a new life as a heritage centre.

This is an interesting place to visit which gives some good information about mining and the surrounding area of Beaconsfield where gold was first discovered in 1847. It’s particularly interesting given the fact that the site is a defunct mine. There’s also information on the dramatic incident of 2006, and you can explore the outside of the mines.

The centre has a lot of interactive pieces of industrial interest with levers to operate and tunnels for kids to run through, and you can even pan for gold. Kids are also encouraged to search for animals however we as a family were unsuccessful at this.

There’s also a good shop and a few pieces of historical mining significance, and you can spend upwards of an hour exploring the centre.

Address: West St, Beaconsfield TAS 7270

Day 8: Cataract Gorge And Freycinet National Park

Driving Time: 2 hours

The next stop on this 10 day self drive itinerary Tasmania is Freycinet National Park and the stunning Wineglass Bay.

• Have breakfast early before heading to Cataract Gorge in Launceston. Take the chairlift one way and walk around the Gorge over the suspension bridge in the other. Leave by 10:30am
• Drive to Freycinet National Park stopping at Freycinet Marine Farm for a seafood lunch on the way
• Hike to Wineglass Bay

Where To Stay At Coles Bay

Coles Bay is the best place to stay for access to Freycinet National Park

• 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 )

Cataract Gorge

Just outside the centre of Launceston is Cataract Gorge. This stunning site is an excellent way to spend a morning. The gorge is a natural formation with plenty to see and do including a chairlift, swimming pool, suspension bridge, restaurant and plenty of walks.

A ride on the chairlift is the best way to see the gorge. Two people can sit in a single chair. It’s not overly high but there is only a band around your middle so I’d recommend adults sit with younger kids.

The suspension bridge is also fun to walk over, with a very clear wobble as you walk. The path has information on the plants and their use to the ancient indigenous population.

Another interesting thing to try is The Inclinator – you can use this to get from the entrance to the base of the basin and back again. It’s self operated and fun to ride with kids.

Entrance is free but you do need to purchase a ticket to ride the chairlift. It’s a fabulous place to spend the morning.

Address: 69 Basin Road, Launceston, TAS 7250

Freycinet Marine Farm

If excellent seafood interests you then a stop at Freycinet Marine Farm is a must. Tasmania is well known for its top quality seafood, and as this is a marine farm, it has some of the freshest seafood you’ll find.

The site is actually a collection of small buildings with places to sit down for a meal, and we recommend having lunch here. There is ample seating and I think you’d be unlucky not to find a spot to sit. They also offer take away.

The menu itself is small but it makes up for its size in flavour – everything we tried was delicious, particularly the mussels and oysters (probably because they are farmed here!). There are several other seafood options, chips and drinks.

They also run tours on their farm where you can catch and shuck oysters yourself if this interests you. We would have done this if we hadn’t visited with kids. Still, we loved visiting here and whilst it isn’t cheap, it’s worth it.

Wineglass Bay

Wineglass Bay is a stunning location and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tasmania. A visit here is a must.

Wineglass Bay sits inside Freycinet National Park and the beach is rated among the top 10 beaches in the world, and you’ll see why by viewing the beauty of this area from above.

There are several different walks you can do here. However by far the most popular is the gentle uphill track to the lookout where you can take in the scenery of the bay. This track is well surfaced with places to stop along the way and plenty of things to see.

We saw people of all ages hiking the track, and it takes most people between 30 minutes to one hour one way, depending on how many stops you take and your fitness level.

The view from the lookout is well worth the walk and is simply stunning. There are plenty of spots to take photos. However, it can be quite crowded during busy periods.

If you have more time and if hiking interests you, you can do the full Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit where you can hike down to the beach and return to the car park from the opposite direction. However this can take upwards of 5 hours so it’s certainly not suitable for everyone, but hiking down to the beach is the only way to touch the sand.

Whatever you decide, simply seeing this spot with your own eyes after hiking the trail to the lookout is a rewarding experience in itself.

Address: Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay TAS 7215

Day 9: Port Arthur

Driving Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

The next stop on this suggested 10 day itinerary Tasmania is Port Arthur, the perfect place to learn about Tasmania’s convict past.

• Drive to Port Arthur Historic Site after breakfast and explore the site. Make sure you take the included walking and boat tours
• In the evening, return to the site for the spooky ghost tour

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 .

Port Arthur Historic Site

Understanding modern day Tasmania starts with understanding its past, and one of the best kept historical sites in the state is the UNESCO listed Port Arthur Historic Site.

Once a convict gaol where over 12,000 prisoners were sent, the prison is now an expansive and interesting site to explore, and one of the top tourist attractions in the state.

Many buildings still stand, while others are in ruins, and you are free to explore the gaol, houses, gardens and surrounding area by yourself. We loved exploring the old houses and the relics from the past contained inside them.

Your entry fee to the site includes a guided 40 minute walking tour which I highly recommend taking to get more connection to the area. When you book and pay for your ticket (which can be done online), you select a time for your walking tour. I recommend booking ahead to get your preferred time.

Your entry price also includes a harbour boat cruise while sails past Isle of the Dead which was a burial island for convicts. Again, you select your time when purchasing your ticket – another reason to book ahead.

You can also opt to have lunch here as the visitor centre has a good cafe and restaurant. There is also a gift shop.

There are also additional tours you can purchase like a tour of the Isle of the Dead, and an after dark ghost tours which can be very popular.

Of course, a site like this has its share of ghost stories, and the after dark tour is a 90 minute entertaining tour of the site complete with ghost stories and descriptions of events.

Regardless of what you choose to do, Port Arthur is a fascinating place to visit.

Address: Historic Site, Visitor Centre, Port Arthur TAS 7182

Read our full guide to Port Arthur here.

Day 10: Back To Hobart

Driving Time: 1 hours 45 minutes

It’s time for the final day of this Tasmania self drive 10 day itinerary 🙁 Drive back to Hobart ready to fly out. If you started this itinerary in Launceston or Devonport, head back to day one of this itinerary to keep going.

• Drive from Port Arthur to Doo Town – a town of interesting house names (approx driving time 30 minutes)
• See the Blow Hole and Tessellated Pavement in Eaglehawk Neck
• Return to Hobart and then explore Richmond if it’s still on your list (see day one)

What can you expect from a place named Doo Town? A lot of funny house names!

Not far from Port Arthur, as you enter the stunning area of Eaglehawk Neck, is the little town of Doo Town. This is a place that embraces its name by naming the houses in a similar fashion, all using the word “doo”.

People have been quite creative and it’s an entertaining drive through the town to see what you can find. For some reason, with every name it becomes funnier. There seems to be an endless amount of ways the word doo can be used, so doo drop in and see what you can find 🙂

Address: 301 C338, Eaglehawk Neck, TAS 7179

Read our full guide to Doo Town here.

Blow Hole and Tessellated Pavement

Adding to Tasmania’s profile of exceptional natural beauty is Eaglehawk Neck. Among the interesting geological sites to see here are both the Blow Hole and the Tessellated Pavement.

The Blow Hole is the remnants of a cave eroded by water where water from the sea washes through to create a blowhole effect. It can be reached by a short walk up a path from the car park nearby. The blowhole effect can only be seen during high tide. However, it’s still a scenic spot to visit at any time.

Just a 10 minute drive down the road and you’ll reach the Tessellated Pavement, a stunning site which almost looks man-made. This extremely rare natural tiled rock is the outcome of erosion and salt crystals from the sea, and it’s incredible to see and contemplate the wonders of nature.

This is a popular photo spot and you can get right up close, but to do so, I highly recommend wearing clothes and shoes suitable for wet conditions.

Address: Eaglehawk Neck, TAS 7179

9 Days Tasmania Itinerary

If you are looking for a Tasmania itinerary 9 days, I recommend choosing between either the Gordon River cruise or the West Coast Wilderness Railway on day 4. Then on day 5, head straight to Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre in the morning and explore around Dove Lake. You can then drop day 6 from the itinerary to make it a 9 day itinerary of Tasmania.

Final Words About Your Self Drive Tasmania 10 days Itinerary

There’s no doubt that Tasmania is a fabulous destination to visit. With stunning natural beauty, excellent food and wine and interesting towns to explore, there’s no shortage of things to do in this small state.

By following our 10 day itinerary, you’ll make the most of your limited time here. Whilst some days may seem full on, we know you’ll leave feeling like you’ve had an excellent overview of the state.

Chances are, you’ll also leave with a taste for more. You can always return to our site to read about all the other interesting things to see and do in Tasmania!

We hope you enjoyed this Tasmania 10 day driving itinerary, perfect for your Tasmanian trip. You can find more information to plan your perfect trip to Tasmania  here  or find our 4-5 day itinerary here , 7 day itinerary here and 14 day itinerary 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.

Tasmania 10 Day Road Trip Itinerary for Photographers and Outdoor Lovers

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• August 1, 2023

I often heard Tasmania being described as the love child of Australia and  New Zealand .

Tasmania is a small island just south of the main island of Australia, known for its mountainous landscape, beautiful coastal region, and a vast variety of wildlife – with the Tasmanian devils and wombats being the most prominent of all.

Due to its compactness, it is one of the best places in Australia to plan a road trip.  Nowhere else in Australia will you experience so much beauty without having to drive for hundreds of kilometers per day. 

With endless hiking and photography possibilities, it’s a place you can’t miss when visiting or living in Australia. 

Tasmania 10-day itinerary: the logistics

I spent 5 months living and traveling around Tasmania and designed this itinerary based on my personal favorite places and hikes around the island. 

How much time do you need to see Tasmania?

I always think it’s a relative question. You can spend a lifetime exploring Tasmania and still not see everything but that would also mean you would have to move there.

If you want to get a good taste of Tassie and see most of its highlights, I personally think 10 days, +/- 2 days either way is an optimal time.

Remember that the slower you travel the lesser cost per day your vacation will have as you won’t be cramming too many activities and sights in a shorter amount of time. The best time to visit is between December and March during the summer. 

How to get to Tasmania

There are two ways of getting to Tasmania. One is to cross over on an overnight ferry from Melbourne and dock in Devonport on the north tip of the island.

Traveling by ferry from Melbourne to Devonport

The Spirit of Tasmania is the only company that operates on this route and offers passenger ferry rides across the Bass Strait.  

This choice is great for someone who already owns a car and wants to save money on renting one. You can just bring your camping equipment along and off you go. If camping isn’t for you and you prefer a bit more luxury just stay in a hotel.  

Flying to Hobart

If you don’t cope with traveling on ferries very well and get seasick, the second, faster, and most popular way is to fly into Hobart – Tassie’s little capital. Companies like Virgin Australia and Jetstar are leaders when it comes down to flight connections between Australia’s Mainland and Tasmania. 

How to get around Tasmania?

Rent a compact car with discover cars.

The best way to explore the little island is by self-driving. If you brought a car with you, you’re all set to go. If you need to rent one, check out   Discover Cars .  It’s my go-to website for the best deals on compact cars. 

Rent a campervan with Motorhome Republic

My preferred way for road-tripping is by traveling in a small camper van or motorhome, as it gives you a lot of freedom when it comes down to accommodation. Essentially your home is where you park it! If you are after renting one – check out the Motorhome Republic .

You will be able to compare the rental options and will be guaranteed the lowest prices. They’ve partnered up with 10 different fleets in Hobart including companies like Britz, Maui, and Apollo, which are the most reputable camper van companies and can be all found on their website by following the link above.

Parks & Wildlife Entry Pass

Since most of the island is a protected area, you will require Parks Pass to enter national parks in Tasmania. I can tell you straight away, that purchasing separate day passes is not worth it. For example, a day passes for Cradle Mountain National Park costs AUD 28 per person/day. If there are 2 of you that’s already 56 dollars. And that’s only for one day!

A way more economical option is to purchase 8 weeks pass for AUD 89.50, which will cover up to 8 people for all national parks on the whole island.

That’s way better value for money and it will save you time too as you will only have to purchase it once. You can get one at the Parks and Wildlife office located at the gates of any of the national parks or online through  Parks & Wildlife Service  prior to your travels. 

Tasmania Road Trip Map

Below you can see the interactive map for this road trip including interesting spots, hiking trails, and photography locations. Click on the button in the top left of the map to navigate through the layers.

10-day road trip itinerary around Tasmania: day-by-day breakdown

I spent 5 months working and traveling around Tasmania during my working holiday year in Australia and though I still didn’t manage to see everything I wanted to see, I certainly have been there longer than an average visitor.

Since photography and being outdoors are my two favorite things I wanted to put together an itinerary that will encompass both great places to photograph and the best places to hike in Tasmania. 

This road trip begins and finishes in Hobart*. You can just simply fly here from mainland Australia, and pick up your rental car right at the airport without having to spend money getting a taxi or shuttle bus into town.

You will then travel counterclockwise through some of the most scenic spots on the island including Freycinet, Cradle Mountain, and Mount Field National Parks, just to name a few. 

* TIP: If you came to Tasmania on a ferry you will start in Devonport. In this case, you can start your exploration in Cradle Mountain NP and follow the loop from there. 

Day 1-2: Hobart and the surroundings

Hobart is a brilliant capital city, very old by Australian standards but still modern enough to have everything you’ll ever need. A city is still a city however and chances are you came to Tasmania to do an adventure road trip and to get some fresh air in your lungs.

After all, you did search for the Tasmania road trip, didn’t you? If you do have to spend a day here exploring though here are a few things to get you started.

Things to do in Hobart, Tasmania

Go up mount wellington and walk the rivulet track.

Mount Wellington is about a half an hour’s drive (20km) to the west of the city. At 1,269m above Hobart, which is at sea level, it’s pretty inconspicuous and it’ll probably be the first thing you notice when flying or driving into Hobart.

It’s quite common to have an inversion day when on the top of Mount Wellington. With clouds rolling just below the peak, the tour up Mount Wellington is the perfect introduction to Tasmania’s landscapes. 

You can visit Mount Wellington by booking the Explorer bus.

Salamanca Market / Farmers Market

If you’re lucky enough to be in Hobart for the weekend, every Saturday the Salamanca market turns into a busy jamboree with loads of food stalls, live music, and people trying to sell all kinds of odds and sods.

Sunday is the Farmers Market which is way less touristy than Salamanca and a great chance to pick up super fresh fruit and veggies for your journey.

Best places to stay in Hobart

Pickled Frog Hostel

If you are a solo traveler, it will be a great place to kick off your road trip and meet fellow backpackers.

Alabama Hotel

Merge of old and new. Fantastic design at an affordable price. 

Salamanca Inn

One of the top picks in Hobart. Located in the best part of the city and a short walk from all the attractions.

Day 2-3: Tasman National Park

After you’ve enjoyed Hobart’s great seafood and local delicacies start your road trip by heading east. The drive to the Tasman Peninsula should take you about an hour and a half of continuous driving.

Continuous driving however is not going to happen. You should stop at the beautiful geological attractions at Eaglehawk Neck. The Tessellated Pavement (photo above) is my favorite spot, especially for sunrise as it looks East.

Things to do in Tasman National Park

Once you’re on the peninsula there are several hikes in the area that are popular. These are my favorite two:

A beautiful hike in the southwest of the peninsula. The 14km 5-hour return walk gives you a chance to see Ship Sterns Bluff from the first lookout. 

Situated on the eastern side of the peninsula. The undulating 8km and 4-hour return track gives spectacular cliff views. If you’re a rock climbing daredevil this is also where the world-famous Totem Pole is.

Join a wildlife cruise

Cruise along the coastline which is part of the Tasman National Park. On this wildlife cruise, you will discover the home of a diverse range of wildlife including hundreds of seals, migrating whales, and abundant sea birds in their thousands.

Visit Port Arthur’s UNESCO Historic Site

Port Arthur’s historic site was basically an old prison from the mid-1800s where all the murderers and rapists from England were sent to. It’s a creepy place where a lot of people were tortured and lost their lives. If you are not easily scared consider joining the night tour around the prison.

Places to stay in Tasman National Park

Port Arthur Holiday Park

Water views, free WiFi, and fantastic reviews all without breaking your wallet

Four Seasons Holiday Cottages   

10 min drive from Port Arthur. Idyllic waterfront location with gardens and BBQ facilities. 

Luxury  

Stewarts Bay Lodge

It offers a private beach area, a waterfront restaurant, and accommodations surrounded by natural bushes.

Day 3-4: Freycinet National Park

Driving for 3 hours (200km) up the eastern coast, you’ll love the views on your right-hand side. Eventually, you’ll make a right at Swansea toward Coles Bay which is the closest place you can drive to on the Freycinet Peninsula.

The Freycinet peninsula is one of the most stunning pieces of land in all of Australia and it’s also one of the oldest national parks too. 

Things to do in Freycinet National Park

Hike to the top of mount amos (photo above).

The famous viewpoint here of Wineglass Bay can be seen best from the top of Mount Amos which is a relatively steep, 3 hours uphill, 4km return walk.

Be warned this should not be attempted in wet conditions as the rocks become very slippery. If the weather isn’t in your favor do the less extreme walk to the viewpoint overlooking the bay. For trail conditions and maps visit the visitor center located right at the park entrance. 

Photograph the Hazards

If you love to photograph seascapes this spot is for you. The hazards are a mountain range in Freycinet National Park separating Coles Bay from Wineglass Bay. Mount Amos is amongst the peaks in the range.

The best spot to snap a photo of them is at the opposite end of the bay, looking just across toward the range. Both sunset and sunrise will work. 

Take a scenic flight above Wineglass Bay and Maria Island

Admire the white sands of Wineglass Bay from the air by joining a scenic flight. Venturing from the Freycinet Peninsula, the journey will take you over the seal colony of Ile Des Phoques before progressing to Maria Island.

Once on the island, you will embark on an exploration of the national park. Plenty of native wildlife species call Maria Island their home.

Places to stay in Freycinet NP

Big4 lluka on Freycinet

Free parking and close proximity to Wineglass Beach. Free Wifi provided.

Malting Lagoon Guest House

the best value-rated property in Coles Bay. Includes breakfast and free bicycle rental.

Freycinet Lodge 

Cabins with spectacular views over Coles Bay with a restaurant serving fresh local produce. 

Day 4-5: Bay of Fires

Once you’ve enjoyed Freycinet then it’s time to keep driving up the east coast to the Bay of Fires. Don’t worry it’s not really on fire, most of the forest fires in Tasmania normally occur in the northwest.

It’s named the Bay of Fires due to the orange rocks which stand out so prominently against the white sand beaches and the crystal clear water.  

Tassie’s Bay of Fires is another of Australia’s pristine locations. Its relaxed atmosphere is perfect for unwinding, hanging out, having a BBQ, and then enjoying a cold beer with a fire on the beach whilst watching the sunset.  

Things to do in the Bay of Fires

Visit binalong bay.

Sit on your butt down and enjoy the beach at Binalong Bay located at the southern tip of the Bay of Fires. The sand here is so fine it will squick under your feet as you walk along the shore.

This is a perfect place to take a break from hiking, sip a few cocktails on the beach and enjoy the sea breeze. You’ve got some hiking coming up at your next destination, hence you should probably be well-rested. 

Photograph the rocks

If you are the type that simply can’t sit still you should drive along the Bay and search for some awesome photography spots. The rock formations and the bright orange colors make for some awesome compositions. Since you are facing east sunrise is the best time for capturing memorable shots. 

Where to stay around the Bay of Fires

Big4 St Helens Holiday Park 

great value if you are traveling with a family or group of friends.

Midrange/Luxury

Bed in the Treetops B&B

Imagine waking up amongst the treetops to the sound of chirping birds and the sea waves. It sells quickly so make sure to book quickly.

Day 5-7: Cradle Mountain National Park through Bridestowe Lavender Estate

Now that you’re all relaxed it’s time to go to the Tasmanian Highlands and get your hike on. Cradle Mountain National Park is my favorite place in Tassie and if there is one place you should stop longer than one night this is it!

I worked just at the border of this National Park for a total of 4 months and still didn’t get my fill.

If you are traveling during December/January make sure to stop at the  Bridestowe Lavender Farm  first. It’s 120 kilometers from St Helens in the Bay of Fires. The entry fee is just 10 dollars and you can admire the purple fields, which seem to have no end. Make sure to try their lavender ice cream or tea as well!

After getting your dose of the lavender smell, drive to Launceston to stock up on food before going to Cradle Mountain. You can thank me later!

There are no supermarkets in Cradle Mountain village, just a little and very overpriced convenience store, a visitor center, a gift shop, and 4 hotels, so replenishing your food in a bigger city, like Launceston, might be a good idea.  

Best hikes and places to photograph in Cradle Mountain NP

In Cradle Mountain National Park hiking and photography go hand in hand, so if you are after some awesome shots from your travels be prepared to break a sweat.

The trails in the park are very well-maintained and marked. Please note that there are a few spots where the chains have been placed and where you will have to scramble a bit. Most walks start from Dove Lake car park. 

Marion’s Lookout 

After the Dove Lake Circuit, this is the most popular hike in the park, and for a good reason. There are two ways you can get there. The first one is from the Ronny Creek parking lot via Crater Falls, this is also where the famous Overland Track starts.

The second path leads from the Dove Lake car park and takes you via Wombat Pool. If you do the hike in the late afternoon it’s pretty common to meet wombats on the trail, this is the reason it’s so popular.

There is also a third alternative route to Marion’s lookout (called the link track), though shorter in distance it is a lot steeper and best to avoid, especially during bad weather conditions. Whichever way you choose account for at least 2-3 hours roundtrip.

Cradle Mountain Summit

Although it is Tasmania’s fifth highest peak, if you are relatively fit like me, summiting Cradle Mountain isn’t too strenuous. The walk starts from the main car park at the northern end of Dove Lake. The most popular route which goes around the Wombat Pool ascends firstly to Marion’s Lookout. 

From there to the base of the mountain is flat and easy and shouldn’t take you long.  The last hour is the hard part, climbing over big, but easily manageable, boulders. You can make a lunch stop at the Kitchen Hut to recharge your batteries before the last push.

Do yourself a favor and leave your heavy bag there whilst getting up to the summit. Remember to still carry your water though. Parks Tasmania reckons that it should take around 6-8 hours to return but I’ve done it in 5 and I’m not exactly a quick walker. So I reckon if you’re fit you can get up and down in 4/5 hours from the Dove Lake car park.

Dove Lake Circuit 

If you are after something less demanding on your knees this one is for you. The circuit is a great introductory walk to the park. The trailhead leaves again from the Dove Lake car park.

Though Parks & Wildlife Tasmania recommends doing it clockwise, my advice would be to go anticlockwise. It will be a bit easier that way. Your first stop will be the famous Boatshed where photographers from all over the world swarm to capture this famous scene. 

Hansons   Peak

A lot less popular, which boggles me a lot, is the hike to Hanson’s Peak. With that said it is definitely my all-time favorite and I’ve done it a few times. It’s a perfect spot to see the sunset and has a good view of the Weindorfers Tower and Cradle Mountain Summit.

Again the trailhead is at the Dove Lake car park. Head left along the lake first following clockwise the Dove Lake Circuit. After around 20 minutes the track will split into two.

Follow the left side (Lake Rodway Track) and start going up. After another 45m-1h and a bit of scrambling on the last part, you will reach the top and the spectacular views that go with it! (See below)

Mount Campbell 

This is an unofficial track and no longer maintained but I thought I will include it anyway. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous and prefer off-the-beaten-path hikes, then completing this one should be your top priority when visiting Cradle Mountain NP.

The hike to Mount Campbell starts the same way as Hanson’s Peak. Once you reach the saddle you will see Lake Hanson to the left and Dove Lake to the right. Instead of following the path to Hanson’s Peak, turn around and start going up the opposite direction, with your back facing Cradle Mountain.

After around 45 minutes of scrambling you will reach the top. This was by far my favorite sunrise spot in the whole park! (photo below)

Bonus: Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary

Right near the entry to the Cradle Mountain National Park, you will find Devils @ Cradle – a Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary. This endangered species is native to Tasmania and until recently it could only be seen on the island. In recent years a small population was introduced to mainland Australia in the hopes of saving the species.

You can stroll leisurely through the sanctuary, observing the animals in their natural daytime routines. Witness them sleeping in their cozy dens, basking in the sun, engaging in playful fights, or foraging for food.

Best places to stay in Cradle Mountain National Park

Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain  

Holiday cabins with cooking facilities, dorms, tent sites, and powered sites for your campervan

Cradle Mountain Hotel   

affordable luxury with two restaurants and a beautiful photo gallery 

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge  

selection of wood cabins surrounded by the Tasmanian Wilderness equipped with either gas or wood fire

Day 7-8: Mount Field National Park

It’s time to see some waterfalls! The drive out of Cradle Mountain towards Mount Field National Park is a long one but can be broken up by stopping at Nelson Falls (photo below) just 700 meters from the A10. This part of the drive through the native rainforest passes many photogenic roadside lakes.

Montezuma Falls would be another interesting walk to do, but it’s a bit longer (8km). I personally didn’t find the waterfalls as spectacular as the other ones you are about to see but the choice is ultimately yours. 

Upon arriving in Mount Field National Park you’ll notice there’s nothing there except a visitor center and a campsite. The newly refurbished visitor center is packed with information about the local flora and fauna and deep down I’m glad there are no shops and hotels there. It adds to the whole scenic experience.

There are many beautiful photography spots here in Mount Field but the two listed below are my favorites.

Russel Falls

These are one of the most easily accessible falls in all of Tasmania, they are also one of the most awe-inspiring too. The short 400m track leads to a huge two-tiered waterfall that appears out of nowhere. You’ll definitely hear it before you see it.

Horseshoe Falls

A further 10 minutes past Russell Falls will take you to the more secluded Horseshoe Falls. The whole walk can be made into a loop via the Tall Trees Walk.

Places to stay in Mount Field NP

Campsite inside the park. Basic amenities but an incredible experience. You can pay for the site at the visitor center. 

Roslyn House B&B  

Rustic country decor and antique furniture.  It includes a fully-cooked breakfast, a guest lounge with a log fire, and free WiFi access.

Midrange/Luxury  

Sassafras Springs  

20 min away from Mount Field NP and on the way back to Hobart. Breathe the fresh country air, drink the fresh spring water, and eat the fresh seasonal fruit and veg from this eco-friendly hotel in the Derwent Valley

Day 8-9: Bruny Island

This leg of the agenda will take you south away from rainforests and toward the southern coast of Tasmania. The ferry to Bruny Island leaves from a small town called Kettering and costs 38$ in return during peak season. Timetables for the ferry can be found here, and the journey lasts approximately twenty minutes.

Bruny Island is basically two islands connected by a small stretch of road called The Neck, which happens to be one of my favorite photography spots in Tassie. This is a great part of the road trip.

Bruny Island is a place of sheer indulgence, you’ll love it. Once you find yourself on the island you’ll get the chance to eat local cheeses, meats, whiskeys, seafood, wines, beers, berries, and much more. You won’t need to look far to find such frivolities, most of them are located just off the main road.

TIP: Another possibility to visit Bruny Island is to travel back to Hobart, drop off your rental car, and join an organized day trip.

Best hikes on Bruny Island

Fluted cape track.

This 2.5-hour hike (5.4km) leaves from the beach at adventure bay on the southern part of Bruny Island. It winds up the cliffs and offers spectacular views of local fauna and flora.

Cape Queen  Elizabeth

This is longer than the fluted cape track but is quite flat in comparison. It’s a 12km route, going in and out on the same track, and it should take 4 hours. You’ll get spectacular views of cliffs but instead of being on top of them as on the Fluted Cape track you’ll be on the beach looking up at them.

Places to stay on Bruny Island

The Campsite at the neck

There is no booking system for it. It’s on a first come first serve basis. With basic and clean facilities it’s perfect for budget travelers. 

Budget/Midrange

Captain Cook Holiday Park 

This park is directly opposite the beach with its white sand and sky-blue sea and it isn’t uncommon to see pods of dolphins and migrating whales in the Bay.   

Adventure Bay Retreat  

Just a minute’s walk from a beautiful white sand beach and set in the native bushland. 

Day 10: Fly out of Hobart

Unfortunately, your time in Tasmania is coming to an end. Take the ferry back and travel to Hobart to drop off your rental and catch a flight to the mainland.

This tour can be adapted into a week by taking out a few days on the Tasman Peninsula and Cradle Mountain or can be extended into a two-week itinerary by adding extra days in Strahan and doing side trips to either the Hartz Mountains just south of Hobart or to Mount Eliza in Southwest National Park. 

If you found this itinerary useful please use the affiliate links I have provided in the itinerary. It won’t cost you anything extra (in fact it’ll actually save you money) and every time you make a purchase I make a small commission on the products and places I recommend. It also helps me to maintain my website and create more awesome itineraries like this one! Thanks. 

Have you got any questions about this itinerary? Post them in the comments! I always answer. 

Useful websites and apps for planning your trip around Tasmania

• Booking.com  – for booking hostels and hotels around the island
• Discover Cars – for finding the best deal on compact car rentals in Tasmania
• Motorhome Republic  – search engine for motorhome hire in Tasmania
• Parks & Wildlife Services  – the official website for National Parks Services in Tasmania. Includes information about hikes, maps, and current trail conditions. 
• Wikicamps Australia  – fantastic smartphone app for finding campsites and roadside stops for all of Australia. It will pay for itself after its first use. 

Hi! I am the photographer and creator of www.inafarawayland.com. I come from Poland, but I've been living, travelling and working around the globe since I turned 18. A few years ago, during one of my trips to Scotland, I bought my first DSLR and my adventure with photography began. When I am not stuck to my computer editing photos, you can find me hiking somewhere in the mountains.

Did you have any issues taking your furry friend into any of the parks and reserves?

I would love to bring my little cattle dog along the ride with me 🙂

Hi Zac. No, Jasper my dog joinied the team recently when I came back to Europe. Look up the rules for certain areas directly on the Tasmania Parks site.

I’m headed to Tassy with my son (7yo) this July. Will the outdoor hikes be unbearably windy/intolerable? (We’re New Yorkers, so we can stand the cold:)). Just want to make sure this is still going to be a good trip for us during this time of year. (Thank you for providing so many details!!)

Hi Nicole. Thanks for visiting. I wish I could give you a straight answer but I can. July is the mid winter season in Tasmania. But winter in Tasmania is very different to winter in New York 🙂 It is very mild and it only snows in the high parts of the mountains. You won’t be able to hike in Cradle mountain much but you should be able to do coastal walks and waterfall walks etc.

Hi Marta! This blog post is so excellent and EXACTLY the kind of trip planning I’ve been searching for. I don’t have any questions, I just wanted to thank you for putting together such a thoughtful route with so many excellent options. I’m both a photographer and hiker, and cannot wait to plan a trip like this to Tasmania, hopefully soon!

Hi Hannah. Thanks so much for your lovely feedback. I hope you have an amazing time in Tasmania when you decide to visit!

Hi Marta, super blog and info thank you. How is mud Sept for being in a camper van? Family with 2 kids (11&13). Like our remote beautiful and unique places to stay but also like a bit of comfort too! 10 days in and out of Launceston. Much appreciated, Lorraine

Hi Lorraine. September is officially spring time in Tasmania, but it is early spring. You can expect some low temperatures at night still so getting a campervan with a heater to deal with the cold and condensation would be ideal. I hope that helps!

Hi Marta, just wondering if this itinerary is solo traveller friendly? thank you.

Hi April. Absolutely, but if you travel solo then you have to take some precautions, particularly if you plan on hiking. Always let someone know your plan, where you are heading and when do you plan on being back. Mountains can be treacherous any everyone should exercise caution when hiking.

Your itenary looks amazing! I will go to Tasmania with 2 friends in February.

Unfortunately we only have 5 full days in Tasmania. We fly to Hobart on Monday evening and fly from Launceston to Sydney on Sunday evening (so 6 nights). Which itenary would you recommend to us in which we will definitely do/see all the highlights of Tasmania? We love hiking. I would like to include Brunny Island, but perhaps as a day trip (without an overnight stay), but I don’t know where it is best planned. We would also like to visit Bay of Fires to relax on the beach for an afternoon/evening. Thank you very much in advance for all the tips! Greetings

Hi Joni. Thanks for visiting and for your lovely feedback. It would be best if you visit Bruny Island first. There are organized day trips with transfers from Hobart. I would then head to Tasman Park, and Cradle Mountain. So 1 night Bruny, 1 night Tasman, 2 nights in Freycinet (or 1 night Freycinet, 1 night Bay of Fires) then 2 nights Cradle Mountain. Cradle Mountain is not too far from Launceston so you can get back for your flight in no time. I hope that helps! 🙂

Hi Marta! I wanted to drop a comment and let you know how amazing your Tasmania itinerary appears! The mix of destinations and activities you’ve chosen showcases the stunning beauty of the region. I’m particularly intrigued by the diverse experiences you’ve included, from exploring Cradle Mountain to savoring local delicacies in Hobart.

I was wondering, though, how accessible would this trip be for someone who can’t go on hikes? It would be great to know if there are alternative options or recommendations for those who might have mobility limitations. Thanks for sharing your exciting plans!

Hi Mayur. Thanks for your great feedback. You will have no problem following this itinerary but you would have to redesign it a bit. Maybe cut some days out in Cradle Mountain in favour for Coles Bay or Hobart. But even Cradle Mountains is accessible to people with mobility issues as buses and cars can get all the way to Dove lake.

Awesome! very attractive photo and detail itinerary, appreciate it!

I plan to visit Tasmania March 2023! one question: about every location you mentioned, with hiking, is it a “round trip” that I can return to the starting point, that I left my car there?

Thanks in advance for your reply 🙂

Hi Vincent! Thanks for visiting and for your great feedback. Yes, all hikes take you back to where you started. They are either out and back the same way or they go in a circle. Let me know if I can help further!

Thank you for the info! It looks absolutely EPIC! Would you recommend this itinerary for the winter months ( July)?

Hi Kim! Thanks so much for stopping by. Winters in Tasmania are quite mild so yes, I would, however, you can skip the Lavender Fields as there won’t be any. You could spend a little bit more time around Hobart instead. I wouldn’t recommend travelling in a campervan during this time of the year, just hiring a regular compact car and staying in cozy hotels. Also expect snow in Cradle Mtn NP so some hikes won’t be accessible. I hope that helps! Let me know if you have more questions.

Thanks for all the info- how awesome. My husband and I were wanting to travel in April- would this be a good time to go to Tassy and to follow your blog? Thanks!

Hi Liv! Thanks for stopping by. April is a beautiful month to travel Tassie and especially for visiting the Cradle mountain NP, where the autumn foliage takes place. I would recommend however that you opt-in for hotel stays instead of travelling in a campervan, because the nights can be cold already. Let me know if I can help any further!

Hi Marta, this blog is brilliant and I will be basing our 16 night adventure on your recommendations for sure!! Just a question though, since COVID the prices for cars in Tasmania is more than 4 times the usual amount so I am trying to work out a way to reduce the number of days we need to hire a car. What would you suggest we can see/do without a car? ie The trip to Bruny Island? Time spent in Hobart? Thank you so much!

Hi Nicole! Thanks for stopping by. Sorry to hear about the rental prices. I would have thought it would be the other way around since noone is travelling at the moment they would try and attract as many people as possible, but then again I imagine local travel is doing just fine. tbh the only place I can think of are the two you have mentioned. After all you will be visiting many places which are far away from each other so you will need a car to get there. Sorry I can’t help any further, but I reckon a car is a very useful thing to have on a roadtrip in Tasmania.

Hi Marta, I was wondering how would the itinerary work if I started from Devonport if I was to come by the Sprit of Tasmania in my own car? Thank you!

Thank you for a detailed, informative post! I loved that you captioned the photos in your descriptions!

Your welcome! i am glad I could help!

Hi Marta, your itinerary sounds perfect. We would like to get to see The Southern lights, would you have any suggestions to help us out ourselves in the best position possible to see them. We plan to travel to Tasmania in August this year. Any hints would be greatly appreciated. We are thinking 12 days Thanks Carmel

Hi Carmel. Thanks for visiting. I am glad you like my itinerary. Now to your question, Southern lights are actually quite disappointing. You need to have a crazy storm to actually be able to see any colours with the naked eye, otherwise you only see faint lighter lights on the horizon. The photos of the Southern light that you see online are taken with long exposure. The camera can catch the colours. Very intense storms happen rarely. What I am trying to explain is that don’t get high expectations and if seeing aurora is your dream, then go to Northern Canada, Iceland, Lofoten Islands. Anywhere in the arctic circle. I hope that helps.

Hi Marta, great pics and places. I am the owner of the campground @ cape raoul that you gave a plug to. I know your intentions are well but I don’t want my place advertised online for the world to see. Please remove the plug. Andy

Hi Andy. Yes it was definitely put with the best intentions as we really enjoyed our stay there, but I understand and removed the info. You might now want to remove your comment too. Cheers, Marta

Love this blog! Thanks for sharing.

Planning to go to Tasmania at the end of May. Is it easy to drive to Cradle Mountain at this time of year? Will a small hire car be ok?

Hi Sarah. It can happen that it already snows at higher elevations, but the snow hardly ever stays down in the valleys. Plenty of locals drive small cars year-round there. You might have to look into renting a car that also comes with snow chains, in case you have to use them, but generally, you should be ok.

Hi Marta, Thx for the lovely blog. We have just booked our flights. We are 2 adults 2 kids (3yo + 10yo). We are flying in/out of Launceston. Dec 29 – Jan 9 so 12 days. What would be the best route to travel – Launceston to Cradle to Hobart and back up? Would a Campervan work for us and will it be easy to find places for it? We have never done a Campervan trip and would love to do it here. What would you suggest? We are coming from Sydney.Thx Robbie

Hi Robbie! Thanks for stopping by. If you look at the map I have made for this itinerary you will see that it is a loop and it goes through Launceston. It means you can do exactly the same loop, just instead of starting in Hobart as per my itinerary you start in Launceston. I would probably also do it clockwise in that case leaving Cradle Mountain for last (I think it’s the best part of itinerary and it will leave you something to look forward to). So Launceston -> Bay Of fires – Freycinet – Tasman NP – Hobart – Bruny Island (optionally) – Mt Field NP then Cradle Mtn and if You have time afterwards you could also add walls of Jerusalem NP. Let me know if that helps and if you have more questions!

Thx for the tip Marta. Yes Clockwise sounds better. Would you recommend we spend 1-2 days in Launceston (or surrounds) (my wife is adamant to relax here before the drive start)? Also, Campervan – Van type/Toyota hi-ace – is it ok for the drives or should i just car hire and book rooms along the route? Thx again..

Hi Robbie. It’s really up to you. I am not sure what kind of a traveller are you. More into camping and roughing it out or more into luxury. What I do know is that Toyota Hiace campervan might be very small for a family of four and small confined spaces can create tensions (speaking from experience here:) If you had 2 weeks of guaranteed beautiful weather when the campervan would only be used for driving and sleeping then it might be ok, but personally with two kids I would probably opt more for option nr 2. As for Launceston I didn’t find it very exciting. I am not sure where you are flying from. I presume from within Australia because of all the lockdowns so spending 2 days in Launceston might be a bit of an overkill. 1 night would be more than enough. Bay of fires isn’t too far of a drive from Launceston and I would much rather hang out there longer and rest than in Launceston.

Hi Marta, this blog is amazing! Thank you for giving so much detail, it is going to make our trip much easier and I am so excited now 🙂 My boyfriend and I are hoping to do this itinerary and I was wondering roughly how much we should estimate to spend if we did this based on the budget accommodation? Any rough estimate would be greatly appreciated! 🙂 Thanks in advance, Sophie x

Hi Sophie. Thanks so much for your awesome feedback. Your question is highly dependent on so many things, but most importantly the timing. If you go during the busiest time you can count on spending twice as much on accommodation as during the shoulder season. The most budget option would be to rent a campervan during the shoulder season and just stop at campsites every 2-3 days. My very rough estimate would be around 50 AUD/person/day excluding the rental but including gas, food (self cooking) and parks entries, but if you are a hardcore budget traveller you could even do it for cheaper. I hope that helps!

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10D Tasmania Itinerary — A Road Trip for Adventure Seekers

Trust us, Tasmania is the next go-to road trip destination — and it’s only a matter of time before the rest of the world finds out.

Sunrise at Piermont Retreat, Swansea.

As someone who loves nature and wildlife, I knew I’d enjoy road tripping around Tasmania . What I didn’t expect was how easy it would be to fall in love with this under-the-radar island state.

The word I’d use to describe Tasmania is colourful .

Blue Tier Giant Walk, Derby.

There’s the gorgeous sunrises each morning; a vibrant mix of orange and pink hues. Then there’s the whimsical, calming greens of the forests — home to trees that are hundreds of years old. And of course, the deep azure blues that colour the oceans and skies.

Wild wombat, Maria Island.

The wildlife that inhabits these lands is also pretty incredible. Tasmania is home to several species found nowhere else in the world — like the Tasmanian devil and the Tasmanian pademelon!

Intrigued? We’ve put together this 10-day Tasmania itinerary for the ultimate Tassie road trip!

Tasmania Itinerary Road Trip Overview

Our Tasmania itinerary focuses on the eastern side of the island — starting from Hobart in the south and ending at Launceston in the north.

Click to jump to each section.

Day 1: Hobart Day 2: Tasman National Park Day 3: Maria Island Day 4: Freycinet National Park Day 5: Bay of Fires Day 6-7: Derby Day 8: Derby to Launceston Day 9: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park Day 10: Launceston and Flight Home

More information: Flights to Tasmania | Planning Tips and Pre-trip Essentials

We flew via Qantas into Hobart Airport in Tasmania after transiting in Melbourne — more flight information at the end!

Day 1: Hobart 

Hobart is Tasmania’s endearing seaside capital and the first stop on our Tasmania itinerary! It’s Australia’s second-oldest city, home to almost half of Tasmania’s population.

This city is known for a rich culinary scene (especially seafood), the beautiful Mount Wellington and just all-round good vibes.

Lunch at Billy’s Burgers

Billy’s Burgers had humble beginnings as a food van, and is now a popular establishment among locals. It’s situated in a prime spot along Elizabeth Street Pier — perfect for people-watching.

I had a Sticky Pulled Pork Burger (AU$17) which came packed with slow cooked pulled pork and slaw, hoisin marinade and apple sauce. Plus a Billy’s Brew tap beer to wash it all down!

Cost:  From AU$11.50/burger (~S$10.60) Opening hours:  11AM – 9PM (Mon – Sat), 11:30AM – 9PM (Sun) Address: Elizabeth St Pier, Hobart, Tasmania 7000

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

Hobart to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary: 30min drive (29km)

Tasmania is home to unique wildlife like Tasmanian devils, wombats and sugar gliders! We got to meet some of these animals at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary  — Tasmania’s largest 24/7 rescue service, where the goal is to release the animals back into the wild.

This is Madge, a rescued baby wombat. We love Madge.

We joined a daily tour (included in the entry fee), where our guide Miguel shared about Bonorong’s furry residents. It was fascinating to learn about Tasmania’s wildlife — did you know wombats can run up to 40km/hr? That’s almost as fast as Usain Bolt!

Psst. Bonorong offers Animal Encounters (AU$25/pax) where guests can enjoy a more intimate experience with their favourite critters — like what we did with Madge.

We also learnt about Bonorong’s rescue and rehabilitation efforts, while watching the animals being fed!

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is fully funded by entry fees and donations, so visiting plays a part in local animal conservation!

Entrance fee:   AU$32.50  (~S$30) — Experiences like Animal Encounters and Feeding Frenzy are available at additional cost Opening hours:  9AM – 5PM (Night tours are available after 5PM) Address: 593 Briggs Rd, Brighton Tasmania 7030

kunanyi/Mount Wellington

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to kunanyi/Mount Wellington: 51min drive (44km)

Photo credit: Tourism Australia

Overlooking Tasmania’s capital city of Hobart is the 1,271m-tall kunanyi/Mount Wellington . This iconic peak is easily accessed from the city centre via a short 30-minute drive.

There are plenty of  trails available such as the Organ Pipes Track, an easy 2.5km walk that showcases the dolerite cliffs. If time permits, visit during golden hour and watch the sunset from the top!

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  24 hours Address: kunanyi/Mount Wellington, Wellington Park, Tasmania 7054

Dinner at Mures

Mount Wellington to Hobart: 30min drive (17km)

Mures is a third-generation family business that’s all about seafood. It started as a fish house in 1973 and grew to become a household name in Hobart. Mures is now the go-to place to buy and eat fresh seafood — at any of its three seafood restaurants along the city’s waterfront!

On the ground floor sits Mures Lower Deck . It’s for casual bistro dining; diners can get anything from seafood platters to 32 flavours of ice cream! Locals also purchase seafood from fishmongers here.

Then there’s Mures Upper Deck , a renowned seafood restaurant overlooking Victoria Dock.

Everything we ate was fantastic, but my favourite was the oysters. We had a dozen Tasmanian Pacific Oysters (AU$52) with different seasonings — including a soy and chilli mix, and a citric herb with white balsamic gel.

Their signature Mures Blue Eye Trevalla (AU$39) is also worth trying — the meat is nice and firm, and paired well with creamy lemon tarragon sauce.

Cost: From AU$19/main (~S$17.60) Opening hours: 8AM – 9PM (Mures Lower Deck), 11AM – late (Mures Upper Deck) Address: Victoria Dock, Hobart Tasmania 7000

Where to Stay in Hobart (2 nights)

Henry Jones Art Hotel — conveniently located right across Victoria Dock and Mures .

Budget: Alabama Hotel Hobart (from ~S$91.50/night ) Mid-range: ibis Styles Hobart (from ~S$165/night ) Luxury: Henry Jones Art Hotel (from ~S$266.81/night )

Day 2: Tasman National Park

Tasman island cruise.

Hobart to Tasman National Park: 1hr 30min drive (94km)

Tasman National Park covers the coast in southeastern Tasmania. The best way to see this national park is therefore by boat!

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys is a family-run cruise operator that offers excellent wilderness cruises around Tasmania. We experienced a three-hour Tasman Island cruise , which explores the coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck.

During the cruise, we got up close to several of Tasman National Park’s wildlife. There were seals basking on the rocks, sea birds diving for fish, and dolphins playfully leaping out of the ocean.

It wasn’t the right season for whale spotting, but the area is frequented by migrating whales!

The tour also took us to the entrances of deep-sea caves and beautiful rock formations — including Australia’s tallest cliffs (300m-high!). Our guide pointed out landmarks along the way, such as the Tasman Island Lighthouse and Cape Pillar.

Tasman Island Cruise Cost: AU$155  (~S$143) for a 3hr cruise  Tour timings:  10AM, 2PM Address: Tasman Island Cruises Booking Centre (6961 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur Tasmania 7182)

Lunch at Port Arthur Lavender Farm

Tasman Island Cruise to Port Arthur Lavender Farm: 5min drive (4km)

Drop by Port Arthur Lavender Farm for lunch and lots of lavender! They own 18 acres of land — growing and harvesting, and creating all sorts of lavender products from jewellery to tea to bath salts.

We dined at their onsite restaurant which offers panoramic views of Long Bay. We got the beer battered fish and chips (AU$32), Tasmanian scallops and chorizo skewers (AU$32) and lavender lattes (AU$5).

There’s also a gift shop beside the restaurant, where you can purchase lavender products.

Cost: From AU$24/main (~S$22.20) Opening hours: 10AM – 4PM Address: 6555 Arthur Highway, Port Arthur, Tasmania 7182

Tessellated Pavement

Port Arthur Lavender Farm to Tessellated Pavement: 15min drive (16km)

At first glance, the Tessellated Pavement looks too neat and manicured — like it’s been carefully carved out by hand. But this rock formation was crafted by Mother Nature herself!

Earth’s movements caused the rocks to fracture, resulting in joints. Constant erosion by the crashing waves deepened these joints and formed a tessellated pavement. It’s a great spot for photography, especially when it’s covered in water and there are beautiful reflections.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: 380 Pirates Bay Dr, Eaglehawk Neck Tasmania 7179

Tasmans Arch

Tessellated Pavement to Tasmans Arch: 8min drive (5km)

A short drive from the Tessellated Pavement stands the Tasmans Arch. It’s a bridge-like rock formation, created by constant erosion from the Tasman Sea. The name might ring a bell — it’s named after Abel Tasman, the first known European explorer to reach Tasmania!

Check out the nearby Fossil Bay Lookout and Devil’s Kitchen while you’re there — both a short walk from the Tasmans Arch.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: 16/20 Tasmans Arch Rd, Eaglehawk Neck, Tasmania 7179

After spending the day exploring Tasman National Park, drive back to Hobart to stay a second night.

Tasmans Arch to Hobart: 1hr 15min drive (80km)

Day 3: Maria Island 

Hobart to Triabunna Ferry Terminal : 1hr 15min drive (85km)

A beautiful island with a  rich history ,  Maria Island  wore many hats in the past. She was a penal settlement in the 1820s, an agricultural station in the 1850s and was eventually declared a national park in 1971.

We visited Maria Island just for a day trip, enough for a taste of this stunning park. To cover the entire island though, will take around four days — it’s almost 12 times the size of Pulau Ubin!

The first thing you’ll notice about Maria Island is her abundant wildlife. It’s home to more than 2,000 wombats, easily spotted on cooler days. We were lucky enough to spot a mother and baby just 10 minutes into our walk!

Maria Island is also home to kangaroos, wallabies, Tasmanian devils and a wide range of bird life (including all of Tasmania’s endemic species !).

If you’re there for a day trip, there are several short walks like the Painted Cliffs (2hrs, 4.3km) and Bishop and Clerk (5hrs, 11km). For those with more time to spare, there’s the Maria Island 4-Day Walk — which covers most of the island.

Besides hiking, you can rent bikes at Darlington or go snorkelling!

*Pro-tip: There aren’t any shops on Maria Island. Pack your own lunch, water (there’s no potable water) and snacks!

Cost:  AU$52/pax  (~S$48.10) for a round trip ferry ride. As Maria Island is a National Park, all visitors require a valid National Parks Pass (AU$20.60/pax) Ferry timings:  Four times daily — Check the  schedule for exact timings Address: Triabunna Ferry Terminal (Charles St, Triabunna, Tasmania 7190)

Triabunna Ferry Terminal to Coles Bay: 1hr 30min drive (109km)

Go Stargazing

Drive on to Swansea or Coles Bay, where you’ll spend the night before exploring Freycinet National Park the next day. Coles Bay is the closest town to Freycinet National Park, but it’s small. Consider some of the other accommodation options in Swansea as well!

These areas are more remote and less light pollution means a clearer Milky Way. This was our view at night from Piermont Resort in Swansea. 😍

Where to Stay in Swansea or Coles Bay (2 nights)

Piermont Retreat . We had an amazing stay here, catching the Milky Way at night and a gorgeous sunrise the next morning. Treat yourself and add this to your Tasmania itinerary!

Budget: Swansea Backpackers (from ~S$82/night ) Mid-range: BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet (from ~S$170/night ) Luxury: Piermont Retreat (from ~S$426/night ) — minimum two nights

Day 4: Freycinet National Park

Coles Bay to Freycinet National Park: 9min drive (4km)

Photo credit: Matthew Donovan

Your Tasmania itinerary won’t be complete without a trip to Freycinet National Park . Established in 1916, it’s one of Tasmania’s oldest national parks. The main attraction is  Wineglass Bay , a beautiful curved beach framed by The Hazards (a line of granite peaks).

Photo credit: Jason Charles Hill

Wineglass Bay Lookout offers the best vantage point of the bay and it’s just a short 1.3km hike to get there from the car park. Have more time to spare? Try the Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit (11km, 5hrs) or for experienced hikers, the more challenging Mount Amos Trek (3.6km, 3hrs).

There are plenty of other exciting  things to do  in Freycinet National Park, like kayaking, swimming and camping!

Entrance fee:   S$41.20/vehicle  (~S$37.90) for a 24 hour National Parks Pass Opening hours:  24 hours Address: Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay, Tasmania 7215

After exploring Freycinet National Park, head back to your accommodation in Swansea or Coles Bay for a second night.

Day 5: Bay of Fires 

Binalong bay.

Coles Bay to Binalong Bay: 1hr 50min (124km)

To soak up some sun, head to  Binalong Bay . It’s the main beach along the  Bay of Fires , an incredible 50km-long coast lined with white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters.

A unique feature of the area is the lichen-covered (a type of algae) boulders that give the coastline its distinctive orange shade.

You won’t have trouble finding things to do here — Binalong Bay offers a wide array of activities like surfing, snorkelling and kayaking! The area is also known for its rich marine life, best seen by joining a  Bay of Fires Eco Tour .

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  24 hours  Address: Binalong Bay, Tasmania 7216

Lunch at Skippers Fish Shop

Binalong Bay to Skippers Fish Shop: 11km (13min drive)

For lunch, we stopped by Skippers Fish Shop . It’s a small floating eatery, parked by the pier in St Helens. There’s no indoor seating, just a few tables outdoors.

Their signature is the Blue Eye Fish and Chips (AU$24.50). If you crave a bit more variety, get the Skippers Box (AU$19.50) instead. It includes a mix of fish, prawn, squid, scallop and chips. Everything was fried really well and had a nice crunch — 10/10 would recommend!

Cost: From AU$12.50/main (~S$11.50) Opening hours: 11:30AM – 2:30PM (Wed – Thu, Sun), 11:30AM – 7PM (Fri – Sat), Closed on Mon – Tue Address: 5 Marina Parade St Helens, Tasmania 7216

Skippers Fish Shop to Derby: 1hr 9min drive (66km)

Where to Stay in Derby (3 nights)

Photo credit: Tin Mountain

Budget: The Dorset Hotel (from ~S$111/night ) Mid-range: Pilgrim Blue Derby (from ~S$183/night ) Luxury: Tin Mountain (from ~S$355/night ) — minimum 2 nights

Day 6-7: Derby 

The next stop on our Tasmania itinerary is Derby — a small town with massive character.

A former tin-mining hub, Derby has since transformed into a world-class biking hub! That ain’t all, this town has a couple of unique experiences (floating sauna, anyone?) and beautiful hiking trails that’ll surprise you.

Mountain Bike Experience

If you weren’t into mountain biking before,  Derby  might just convert you. It’s home to some of the world’s best mountain bike trails! 

There are 125km of mountain bike trails, all of which are free to use all year round.  Biking trails  for all levels are available, from easy green routes to more advanced black diamond trails.

It’s easy to rent a bike at one of the  many bike stores  along Main Street and head off on your own. But if you’re new to mountain biking, we’d recommend booking a tour. You’ll be in the safe hands of an instructor who knows the trails like the back of their hand.

*Pro-tip: Many bike rental stores offer free shuttle service to the biking trails! The schedules can be found at the shop entrances.

Cost: From AU$75/day  (~S$69) for mountain bike rental Opening hours:  Varies Address: 66 Main St, Derby, Tasmania 7264

Main Street Derby

Main Street Derby is located along the same street as all the mountain bike stores — so it’s easy to get to. The food is tasty with generous portions; we ended up dining here more than once!

For breakfast, there’s all the brunch classics — Avocado Toast (AU$20), Breakfast Bowls (AU$20) and our collective favourite, the Bacon and Egg Burger (AU$14). It came doused in bacon and jalapeño jam, and was just really yummy.

During lunch and dinner, the menu switches up. We had the Scotch Fillet Steak with rosemary butter (AU$45) and Seared Pork Chops with mustard and honey (AU$36). Both didn’t disappoint 😋

Cost: From AU$13/main (~S$11.90) Opening hours:  7:30AM – 8:30PM Address: 69 Main Street, Derby, Tasmania

Lake Derby Floating Sauna 

Main Street Derby to Lake Derby Floating Sauna: 12min walk (1.2km)

Lake Derby Floating Sauna is Australia’s only floating wood-fired sauna — and the perfect place to wind down after biking. Its location is also unbelievably picturesque, at the edge of Lake Derby (or the Briseis Hole to locals).

Unwind in the sauna (kept at a sweltering 90°C), then cool off by jumping in the water. The temperature was a refreshing 22°C when we visited, and a dip in Lake Derby immediately jolted me awake. It was a really nice place to relax and it felt like we had the whole lake to ourselves!

The Lake Derby Floating Sauna is booked on an hourly basis, with a maximum of five people per session (AU$45/pax). If you want the entire sauna to yourself, it’s AU$225 for the hour.

Note: Bring a towel and change of clothes! Changing rooms are available but there are no showers at the sauna.

Cost: AU$45/pax (~S$41.20) for 1hr Opening hours:  8AM – 9PM Address: Derby Tasmania 7264

The Hub Derby

The Hub Derby serves up hearty wood-fired pizzas — all handmade!

There were familiar favourites such as Margherita (AU$15) and Pepperoni (AU$19), plus some more interesting options. Like the True Blue (AU$21) — onion marmalade with mozzarella, blue cheese and walnuts — and Fennel Sausage and Pumpkin (AU$18.50).

Cost: From AU$15/pizza (~S$13.70) Opening hours:  12PM – 9PM (Wed – Sun), Closed Mon – Tue Address: 72 Main St, Derby Tasmania 7264

After exploring Derby, spend the next day checking out these nearby spots — all less than an hour’s drive away!

Mount Paris Dam

Derby to Mount Paris Dam: 13min drive (13km)

The 250m-long Mount Paris Dam used to lead to the Mount Paris tin mine. Now, visitors can hike along a short section of the dam — the entire loop takes less than 30 minutes to complete.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  24 hours Address: Mount Paris Dam Rd, Branxholm, Tasmania 7261

Blue Tier Giant Walk

Mount Paris Dam to Blue Tier Giant Walk: 31min drive (22km)

The Blue Tier Giant Walk is a short 3.2km return trek that’s extremely scenic. It’s home to Giant Ash trees which soar up to heights of 60m! Large man ferns decorate the forest, adding both character and shade.

We saw a couple of skinks and birds along the way.

It was a peaceful walk; we didn’t see another soul the entire time. I loved that while there was a clear trail to follow, it wasn’t paved — leaving the forest mostly untouched.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  24 hours Address: Weldborough, Tasmania 7264

Little Blue Lake

Blue Tier Giant Walk to Little Blue Lake: 44min drive (38km)

If you’ve got time to spare, consider dropping by the Little Blue Lake . It was once a mining hole which was later filled in. Due to the mineral content in the ground, the lake now appears bright turquoise!

Note: Unfortunately, swimming isn’t allowed due to the water’s high acidity.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours:  24 hours Address: 1753 Gladstone Rd, South Mount Cameron Tasmania 7264

Little Blue Lake to Derby: 24min drive (27km)

Day 8: Derby to Launceston

Derby to Fork It Farm: 55min drive (65km)

Fork It Farm

Interested in experiencing a unique paddock to plate meal? Consider dropping by Fork It Farm ! It’s a local family-run farm that produces small-batch meats and charcuterie.

They offer paddock picnics daily ( AU$35/pax ) that visitors can enjoy on their farm. Additionally, there are Long Table Feasts ( AU$190/pax ) on the first Saturday of each month. This includes the works — a full selection of Fork It Farm’s produce, plus Tasmanian wines and beers.

You can also pick up some of their products while there.

Cost: From AU$35/pax Opening hours:  11AM – 4PM (Wed – Sun), Closed on Mon – Tue Address: 311 Adams Rd, Lebrina Tasmania 7254

Hollybank Treetops Adventure

Fork It Farm to Treetops Adventure Hollybank : 25min drive (24km)

Soar through Tasmania’s lush forests at Treetops Adventure Hollybank . We experienced the zipline tour which includes six ziplines of different heights and lengths. The highlight was the 400m zipline — Tasmania’s longest!

We had to go in full cannonball position to gain speed, which upped the thrill factor. Our friendly instructors were really engaging and made the whole experience even more fun.

Besides zipline tours, Treetops Adventure Hollybank offers segway and mountain biking tours as well as tree ropes courses!

Cost: AU$139/pax (~S$127) for a 2.5hr Zipline Tour Opening hours:  9AM – 5PM, Closed on Christmas Day How to get there:  66 Hollybank Rd, Underwood Tasmania 7268

Launceston to Cradle Mountain : 2hr drive (140km)

Stop by Launceston for dinner, before driving on to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair before dark to spend the night. Alternatively, spend the night in Launceston and drive to Cradle Mountain the next morning!

Where to Stay at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Photo credit: Discovery Parks

Budget: Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain (from ~S$66/night ) Mid-range: Cradle Alpine Retreat (from ~S$220/night ) Luxury: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge (from ~S$411/night )

Day 9: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Visiting Cradle Mountain  is one of the best things to do in Tasmania. Especially if you’re into hiking! It’s part of Cradle Mountain Lake-St Clair National Park, a designated Tasmanian World Heritage Wilderness Area.

Take on the Dove Lake Circuit (6km, 3hrs) or Crater Lake Circuit (5.7km, 2hrs) — both great ways to see Cradle Mountain and its surroundings.

National Park shuttle buses run between the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre and Dove Lake (8AM – 6PM from Oct to Mar, and 9AM – 5PM from Apr to Sep). Private vehicles are not permitted on the road during these times. 

Entrance fee:  AU$25.75/pax (~S$23.70) for a Daily Icon Park Pass Opening hours:  24 hours Address: 4057 Cradle Mountain Rd, Cradle Mountain Tasmania 7306

Cradle Mountain to Launceston: 2hr drive (140km)

Where to Stay in Launceston

The Sebel , Launceston.

Budget: Pod Inn (from ~S$64/night ) Mid-range: Coach House Launceston (from ~S$123 ) Luxury: The Sebel (from ~S$182/night )

Day 10: Launceston

Chill out on the last day of your Tasmania road trip! Explore the streets of Launceston and stock up on souvenirs and snacks before heading home. Places to visit in Launceston include the Launceston Seaport Boardwalk, City Park and Princess Square.

Stillwater Restaurant

Our Tasmania itinerary ends with a scrumptious meal at Stillwater . Launceston is one of Australia’s two UNESCO Cities of Gastronomy , after all!

The building occupied by Stillwater is filled with history — it used to be an old flour mill in the 1800s and supplied water to the town in the 1900s. Today, it houses one of Launceston’s top restaurants.

We had the Stanley octopus with udon as an entree and for the main, a Koji aged eye fillet that literally melts in your mouth. 🤤

Cost: From AU$36/main (~S$33) Opening hours: 8AM – 10PM (Tue – Thu), 8AM – 11PM (Fri – Sat), 8AM – 3PM (Sun – Mon) Address: 2 Bridge Rd, Launceston Tasmania 7250

Flights from Singapore to Tasmania

Currently, there are no direct flights from Singapore to Tasmania .

The fastest way to get to Tasmania is to fly to Melbourne (7hr 10min), then to Hobart (1hr 20min) — the starting point in our Tasmania itinerary. We took an open jaw flight, flying out of Launceston at the end.

We flew via Qantas , which was really enjoyable. The check-in process before was fuss-free, plus every staff member we came across was really friendly.

The seats were spacious and comfy (blankets and pillows are provided!) and the inflight entertainment was great — I managed to watch two recently released films.

During our seven-hour economy flight, we were served one meal and three rounds of snacks — pretzels, chips and a chicken pie. I honestly can’t recall the last time I ate so much on a flight.

Tips for Planning Your First Tasmania Road Trip

1) pre-trip essentials.

Travel documents: Visitors to Australia must apply for an Electronic Travel Authority visa (subclass 601)* via the Australia ETA app . The processing fee is AU$20. It usually gets approved within a few days, but it’s better to be safe and complete this at least a week before your flight!

*Note: This applies to ETA-eligible passport holders , including Singapore.

Connectivity:  There are no phone shops at Hobart Airport. Purchase a SIM card either at Melbourne Airport (Optus offers 60GB for 30 days at AU$25, Vodafone offers 8GB for 14 days at AU$20) during your transit, or in Hobart city.

Insurance:  TravelCare ( from ~S$51/pax for 10 days)

Car rental: From ~S$100.20/day

2) Purchase a National Parks Pass online

A  National Parks Pass  is needed to enter all of Tasmania’s national parks. Over 40% of the country is a designated world heritage area and the fees go towards maintaining these parks!

A Daily Pass costs AU$41.20/vehicle (up to 8pax) and the price is the same for all parks except for Cradle Mountain. As our Tasmania itinerary includes a few national parks, we’d recommend getting a Holiday Pass (AU$82.40/vehicle). It includes entry to all national parks (including Cradle Mountain!) and is valid for two months.

3) Check out   Tourism Tasmania’s Trip Planner

The Trip Planner allows you to find new things to do in Tasmania and map out a travel route and itinerary by day. You can also save your trip and share it as a collaborative link with your travelling party, so your travel mates have no excuse not to contribute to the trip planning 😉

4) Keep a Lookout for Mother Nature and Wildlife

What makes a Tasmania road trip incredible is there’s nature and wildlife in every corner. Not just in national parks or wildlife sanctuaries! In Derby, we saw wild kookaburras, wallabies and even a platypus — all in the heart of town.

*Pro-tip: Tasmania is one of the best places in the world to see the elusive Southern Lights ! It’s hard to predict when they happen — join local Facebook groups like Aurora Australis Tasmania Alert NOW and Aurora Australis Tasmania to stay updated on aurora sightings.

After experiencing Tasmania, I feel like I’ve been let into a big secret. The whole island state is a hidden gem — and it won’t be long before the rest of the world catches on.

Looking for more exciting things to do in Tasmania? Check out our Ultimate Tasmania Bucket List !

Read also: Visual Diary: Tasmania Road Trip — Our Favourite Photos and the Stories Behind Them

Did we miss out any fun things to do in our Tasmania itinerary? Share with us in the comments below!

This post was brought to you by Tourism Tasmania .

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This is the Perfect Tasmanian Road Trip

Positioned south of Victoria is the Australian island state of Tasmania. Magically rugged Tassie is blessed with dazzling beaches, astounding mountains, charming hamlets and a rich history. Culture Trip has planned a lap of the map road trip from Devonport all the around to Cradle Mountain. Take your time on Apple Isle, venture off the beaten path and discover the beauty of Tasmania.

Day 1: spirit of tasmania.

Your journey begins in Port Melbourne as you depart on the Spirit of Tasmania across Bass Strait towards Davenport. Sit back in a recliner, choose from a range of private accommodation options or book a day ticket and roam the ship. On board, you’ll find three bars, a buffet-style eatery, two cinemas, live music, kids’ activities, a tourism hub and more. The voyage takes between 9 and 11 hours with both day and night trips available. Vehicle fares start from AUD $89.00 and human fares start from AUD $79.00. To make the most of your time in Tasmania, we recommend bringing your car or camper van over from the mainland as there are no passenger trains on the island.

Day 2: Disembark in Davenport

Day 3: Bay of Fires

Follow the Tasman Highway/A3 for two and a half hours northeast to Binalong Bay, the gateway to the Bay Of Fires which was named after the Aboriginal fires spotted by Captain Tobias Furneaux when he sailed along Tasmania’s east coast in 1773. Stretching over 50 kilometers from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point, the striking shoreline is renowned for its string of pristine white beaches, turquoise waters and tangerine granite boulders. We recommend staying at Tidal Waters Resort in St Helens.

Day 4: Freycinet National Park

Moving south down the Tasman Hwy/A3, Freycinet National Park is a pristine outcrop home to Wineglass Bay which is considered one of the top ten beaches in the world. Dive into the crescent cove, go sea kayaking, or laze on the luminous white sand. One of the best ways to see Wineglass Bay is to step aboard a four hour cruise where you’ll be treated to spectacular views, wildlife sightings and a Ploughman’s lunch courtesy of the Head Chef at Freycinet Lodge. We recommend staying at the peaceful Freycinet Lodge.

Day 5: Maria Island

Travel further along Tasmania’s East Cost to the fishing village of Triabunna where a 30-minute ferry ride costing AUD $50.00 will bring you to the historic Maria Island. Watch as wombats graze undeterred by visitors, wander through the ghost town that is Darlington, see the convict station and stroll to the breathtaking Painted Cliffs at Hopground Beach. Once back in Triabunna, it’s time to hit the road again on route to Port Arthur via C335 and Arthur Hwy/A9 which will take less than two hours. Upon arrival, check into Stewarts Bay Lodge where you can tuck into dinner at the on-site restaurant Gabriel’s on the Bay.

Day 6: Port Arthur

A ten-minute walk down Church Street will bring you to the World Heritage Listed Port Arthur Historic Site , Tasmania’s top tourist attraction that welcomes over 250,000 visitors each year. Site entry tickets cost AUD $39.00 and include a guided walking tour, access to over 30 historic buildings including the museum which contains artifacts from the Convict era and a harbor cruise on board the MV Marana. Other ticket packages are available, including the must-see lantern-lit ghost tour featuring unsettling paranormal accounts dating back to 1870.

Day 7: Hobart

Tasmania’s capital city is only 90 minutes from Port Arthur. We recommend staying at the waterfront Grand Chancellor Hotel which overlooks River Derwent and Constitution Dock. If you happen to be in Hobart on Saturday, don’t miss Salamanca Market which has over 300 stalls selling a variety of goods from fresh produce to arts and crafts. Another popular attraction is David Walsh’s Museum of Old and New Art. Australia’s largest privately owned art gallery houses a collection of 1,900 works of art from Egyptian antiquities to contemporary art. Admission starts at AUD $25.00. For dinner we recommend Da Angelo.

If you have time, visit the Huon Trail, about an hour south-west of Hobart and pick up a bag or two of apples at one of the many farm gates within the area which use an honesty-box system. Just be sure to carry coins with you as pay wave isn’t an option.

Day 7: Drive to Lake St Clair

Before setting off to the western side of Apple Isle, mosey through the maritime village of Battery Point and see gorgeous Victorian homes before grabbing breakfast at Jackman & McRoss bakery. Looming over Battery Point is Mount Wellington , located just 27 minutes away. Mount Wellington is 1,271 metres high and the pinnacle observation shelter offers panoramic views of Hobart. Once back down the mountain, make your way onto the Lyell Hwy/A10 for two hours and 45 minutes until you reach The Wall in the Wilderness in Derwent Bridge. Artist Greg Duncan’s sculptural site features carved wooden panels commemorating the history of Tasmanian’s Central Highlands. Two minutes away is Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake at a depth of 160 meters. There are a number of short and longer walks to choose from as well as overnight walks. National park passes are required. Resting on the water’s edge is Lake St Clair Lodge , which has a range of accommodation options as well as a restaurant and wellness centre.

Day 8: Cradle Mountain

From Lake St Clair, journey three hours via A10 to the picturesque Cradle Mountain. From alpine heaths to chiseled mountain peaks and glacial lakes, the landscape is one of Tasmania’s most awe-inspiring attractions. Hike through the iconic region on a self-guided or ranger led walk, visit the reflective Dove Lake and glistening Enchanted Forest, climb to Marion’s Lookout, go horse-riding, fly fishing and see magnificent waterfalls. While in Cradle Mountain, you may come across native wildlife, but if you’re keen to see the Tasmanian Devil then visit Devils@Cradle. Spend the night nestled by the fireplace at the cosy Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge . If you can’t get enough of Cradle Mountain, explore the region further on the renowned 65km Overland Track .

Day 9: Return to Devonport

After a well-deserved sleep in, enjoy a buffet breakfast at the Highland Restaurant before setting back out into the national park. When you’re ready, pack the car and drive the final leg of your road trip back to Devonport along Cradle Mountain Rd and C132 which will take you less than 80 minutes. The Spirit of Tasmania night cruise typically leaves at 7:30pm, allowing you to see Devonport. From the Mersey River, to Bass Strait Maritime Centre and Devonport Regional Gallery , there is plenty to do before you wave goodbye to Tassie.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Tasmania road trip (complete 10 day itinerary + tips & map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

Are you planning a  Tasmania road trip?  In this article, you will find all the information you need to make the most of your time on this beautiful island.

We have recently returned from a 12-day road trip around Tasmania and in this post, I detail our Tasmania road trip itinerary as well as information about the top things to do and see and great places to stay.

Tasmania is often described as “an island of contrasts” and after our visit, I could not agree more. We experienced beautiful beaches, fantastic views of bays and mountains, amazing wildlife, great walks and incredible food and wine. The smallest state in Australia certainly packs a punch!

Tasmania has been named as one of the top destinations worldwide to visit by numerous travel magazines. About time I say!

10 reasons to visit Tasmania

How to travel to tasmania, how to travel around tasmania, tasmania road trip map, what to see in hobart and surrounding areas, things to know when visiting hobart, where to stay in hobart, richmond (day 3), tasman peninsula (days 3/4), things to do in freycinet national park, where to stay in freycinet national park, where to stay at the bay of fires, launceston (days 7/8), launceston to cradle mountain (day 8), things to do and see at cradle mountain, where to stay in cradle mountain, hobart (days 11/12), driving in tasmania, when is the best time of year to visit tasmania, tasmania national park pass, useful resources, read more about tasmania.

• National parks
• Stunning scenery
• Amazing wildlife – devils, wombats, echidnas!
• Wonderful food and wine
• An interesting history
• Hikes to suit everyone whatever their ability
• Beautiful beaches
• Quaint towns with great names – Melton Mowbray, Richmond, Sheffield and Derby!
• Art! MONA (more on that later)
• Stay in some of the most outstanding accommodation available anywhere in the world

We flew from Brisbane to Tasmania with Virgin Australia .  There are many flights a day from all the major cities in Australia to both Hobart and Launceston.

Flying from Melbourne to Hobart takes around an hour. The flight from Brisbane takes just over 2 hours.

If you want to take your own car/motorhome over to Tasmania there is the option of catching the Spirit of Tasmania ship. This departs from Melbourne and arrives in Devonport approximately 9-11 hours later.

For recent up-to-date costs check out the Spirit of Tasmania website.

Tasmania was made for road tripping!

Whether you decide to hire a car and stay in hotels along the way (as we did) or hire a camper van/motorhome and camp your way around the state you will have an amazing time.

We booked our car with Hertz and were able to pick it up at the airport on arrival. WE found collecting and dropping the car at the airport was a smooth, easy process.

There are lots of things to see and do in Tasmania and unless you have a month or more it is impossible to see everything.

I would suggest identifying the areas you would most like to visit and plan your Tasmania itinerary around that. That is exactly how I planned the trip and generally it worked out well.

Although Tasmania is small don’t rush it – take time to enjoy the different places as you travel around. We spent 3 nights in both Freycinet National Park and Cradle Mountain National Park which gave us some time to truly relax.

A 10 day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Hobart (Days 1/2/3/ and 11/12)

We flew from Brisbane and arrived at Hobart International Airport in the early afternoon. After picking up our hire car at the airport we drove the 18 kms into the city of Hobart where we had booked a 2-night stay.

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and Australia’s most southern city. With an estimated population of 220000 Hobart is making itself known on the international stage for 2 things – art and food.

We spent an afternoon on day 1 exploring the city itself. On day 2 we drove out of the city down to Dover and Southport for the day before returning to Hobart in the late afternoon.

To be honest we weren’t bowled over by Hobart and next time I would probably give it a skip and drive straight to the Tasman Peninsula. However, if you haven’t yet been I would recommend spending a day/evening there to go to the markets and explore the waterfront area.

Salamanca Markets

The Salamanca Markets are only on a Saturday so if you really want to go you need to book your trip accordingly. Apparently, they are excellent with about 300 stalls open for business from 8:30 am onwards.

Unfortunately, we missed them as we were in Hobart earlier in the week though we did enjoy a stroll around the waterfront area where the markets are held.

There are numerous restaurants and cafes as well as galleries and shops to explore in the area.

Good to know – arrive earlier rather than later as I hear they start to pack up around 1 pm.

Check out the Salamanca Market website for further details .

Mount Wellington

You can’t miss the 1271 metre high Mount Wellington as you drive into Hobart. We did have a great view from our hotel of the mountain but sadly didn’t get a chance to drive up to take photographs of Hobart as cloud covered it on the days we were in the city.

If you are luckier when you visit head up to Mt Wellington via Pinnacle Road for views of the city and harbour.

Check out the Mt Wellington website for further details.

MONA the Museum of Old and New Art

We made time at the end of our trip to visit MONA . I hated it. BUT I would still recommend visiting! It is meant to shock and there is clearly a load of irony in the way the collection has been put together by the somewhat eccentric millionaire owner.

From the moment you arrive and actually try to figure out how to get into the damn building (hint – cross the tennis court) to the intentional lack of labels and information on any of the art MONA gives you an experience like no other art gallery does. Confronting in capital letters.

So go. But don’t blame me if you think bleurghhhh what the hell was that!!

Bruny Island

We were able to spot Bruny Island during our day 2 trip south of Hobart. The island is becoming a very popular destination for day trips from Hobart though you can stay on the island too.

Take a  bushwalk in the South Bruny National Park or take an eco-cruise to explore its coastline. Look out for seals, penguins, and wallabies and other wildlife.

Bruny Island also has some excellent local produce too including wine, cheese, truffles, berries and fresh oysters.

If a trip to the island is something you would enjoy there are plenty of recommended tour options available including:

• Bruny Island: Full-Day Food and Wine Tour from Hobart
• Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise
• Bruny Island Wilderness Coast Eco-Tour from Hobart

If you have time you could add a night or two staying on the island into your Tasmania itinerary.

• Although quite small Hobart does have a one-way system on many of the roads in the centre of town.
• Hobart is a great city to explore on foot.
• The main shopping area in the centre of Hobart is the Elizabeth Street Mall.
• There are lots of great cafes/bars and restaurants in the waterfront area of the town so head down there for a coffee or a bite to eat!
• Beware visiting when the cruise ships are in port. It is a favourite destination of the floating hotels and you could find it a little busier than anticipated if a million passengers disembark at once.

We found the hotels in Hobart relatively expensive.

Whatever your budget I would recommend finding something closer to the city centre within walking distance of the waterfront or actually on the waterfront itself.

There are AirBnb’s available in Hobart if you prefer.

We stayed at the RACV/RACT Hobart Apartment Hotel which was a 5-minute walk to the waterfront area. The room was clean, spacious, the bed was comfortable. Parking is available and is free to RACV/RACT members.

On day 3 we left Hobart to head to the Tasman Peninsula for a 2 night stay. The drive to the Peninsula only takes about an hour and a half and is 100 km from Hobart.

On the way we took a small detour to the town of Richmond which is 26 km (30 mins) from Hobart. The most famous landmark in Richmond is the bridge which was built in 1823. We parked on the main street and took a stroll down to the river and bridge.

There are lots of beautiful heritage buildings to admire in the town. With arts and craft centres, galleries and a choice of tea houses as well as a convict-era gaol (the oldest in Australia) Richmond is definitely worth a few hours to explore.

Richmond is also home to the Pooseum a place where “talking about poo is not taboo” This science museum is dedicated entirely to yes you’ve guessed it animal droppings.

Although we didn’t go the reviews on Trip Advisor for the museum are excellent so if you have an interest in finding out all about poo this is the place to visit!

After a few hours in Richmond we drove the 80 km onto the Tasman Peninsula itself.

If you are driving down towards Port Arthur you will be on the A9 Arthur Highway which passes the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo . I had read good report about the place so we stopped to explore further.

The Unzoo is built around the concept of inviting us into the natural habitat of the animal. Rather than animals being exhibited in cages as in a traditional zoo the park aims to immerse the visitors in the habitat. It is an interesting concept and in some areas they are definitely succeeding.

This is a great place to see devils and if you can time it do try to be there when they feed them! Watching a devil bite through bone like it was a piece of cheese was incredible!

Over the last 20 years over 95% of the devil population has been wiped out by a cancer that causes facial tumours and death within 6 months. At present there is no known cure and insurance populations of disease free devils have been created in an effort to prevent their extinction.

Unfortunately the only wild devil we saw in Tasmania was dead by the side of the road.

Information about visiting the Unzoo:

Location:  5990 Arthur Highway Taranna

Costs:  Adult $36 Child $20

Opening hours:  9 – 6 (summer) otherwise 9-5

After  couple of hours at the Unzoo we drove to Port Arthur itself where we had booked one night at Stewarts Bay Lodge . The Lodge is located in Port Arthur and was ideally located for our visit to the former prison colony the next day.

We spent the rest of the afternoon at the beach located about 5-minute walk from our cabin before having a lovely evening meal in the on-site restaurant.

If you are looking for accommodation in Port Arthur I would highly recommend the cabins at Stewarts Bay Lodge . They were clean, well equipped and perfectly located.

CLICK HERE for up-to-date prices and to book a stay at Stewarts Bay Lodge.

On day 4 we visited  Port Arthur Historical Site . The site is one of 11 places across Australia that make up the  UNESCO World Heritage-listed Australian Convict Sites.

We spent a few hours exploring the site and learnt so much about the history of both Port Arthur and the lives of the convicts who were sent there.

I would recommend attending the introductory talk when you first arrive and also taking the included boat trip around the bay. There are a number of tours available to book including the very popular Port Arthur Ghost Tour. I can only imagine how creepy the place is after dark!

Additional information coming in my post dedicated to visiting Port Arthur Historic Site soon.

Good to know – Check that there isn’t a cruise ship dropping a few thousand passengers off the day you plan to go!

Freycinet National Park (Wineglass Bay) (Days 4/5/6 )

After spending a few hours at Port Arthur Historic Site we drove 240 kms (just over 3 hours) to Freycinet National Park where we had booked accommodation for 3 nights.

I have to say this is one of the most spectacular places I have ever stayed anywhere in the world. We spent 3 nights at the beautiful and very luxurious Edge of the Bay resort which overlooks Coles Bay and the Hazards Mountain Range.

This is THE place to go to recharge your batteries and completely unwind. We ate breakfast every day with wallabies appearing from under the bushes to check out what we were eating (and if we would share – we didn’t!)

We had a very lazy few days and didn’t do any of the famous hikes (I know!) including the one to Wineglass Bay . If hiking is your thing head over to the information centre at the entrance to the park. There are entry fees for vehicles and individuals which you pay at the entrance to the park.

I would highly recommend a stay at the Edge of the Bay resort . Although pricy this is somewhere you will never forget. It is probably one of the best located places we have ever stayed anywhere in the world. It is very popular so book early to avoid disappointment!

Bay of Fires (Days 6/7)

On day 6 we reluctantly left Freycinet National Park and drove 88 kms to our next destination – the Bay of Fires .

The Bay of Fires is situated on the northeastern coast of Tasmania. It stretches from Binalong Bay in the south to Eddystone Point to the north. The bay was named by Captain Tobias Furneaux in 1773 when he sailed past and say the fires of Aboriginal people on the beaches.

Famous for crystal clear water, beautiful white sand and orange rocks it really is worth visiting. We booked one night in St Helens which is located at the southern end of the conservation area.

We took a drive as far as we could do through the area and stopped off for a few walks along the beaches. Watch out for echidna along the side of the roads when you are driving. We saw quite a few at the Bay of Fires.

As we were only spending one night in the area we booked in St Helens. Campsites are available in some parts of the conservation area and there are also numerous accommodation options near Binalong Bay including Airbnb.

We had the opportunity to catch up on washing too at this point of the trip as we were running out of clean clothes. We stayed at Pelican Point Sanctuary for the evening which was clean and spacious and we had access to a washing machine (laundry detergent provided) and a washing line.

On day 7 we drove from St Helens to Launceston which is approximately 160 kms (2 hours drive) There are 2 possible routes to Launceston from St Helens but as January is peak season for lavender we took the northern route and stopped off at Bridestowe Lavender Farm .

Just to take these photographs! It was really beautiful and if you are visiting Tasmania when the lavender is out I would recommend a visit (there is a small entry fee when the lavender is in bloom) There is a shop and a cafe too selling lots of lavender goodies including lavender ice cream!

We spent one evening in Launceston at a lovely B&B (Kurrajong House Bed and Breakfast) owned by a couple originally from the UK.

We found there wasn’t a great deal to do in the city and spent a few hours playing crazy golf at Grindelwald a Swiss-themed Tamar Valley Resort about 10 minutes from Launceston.

Having lived in Switzerland I was not entirely convinced of its true Swiss-ness but it did pass a few hours!

Next time I would probably skip Launceston altogether but if you do decide to spend a night there I would highly recommend the Kurrajong House Bed and Breakfast . (no children permitted)

On DAY 8 we drove from Launceston to Cradle Mountain where I had booked 3 nights at the world famous Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge.

Cradle Mountain is 140 kms from Launceston and takes about 2 hours. However DO NOT drive straight there!! This drive takes you past some of the recommended producers on the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. At some point I am going back to do the entire trail but for this part of the trip we incorporated 2 stops.

Our first stop was at Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm Cafe . We loved it so much we also stopped there on our return drive to Hobart! If you like raspberries you will love this place! Buy some of the chocolate coated raspberries to take away! And enjoy!

Tasmania really excels in its produce. Wonderful fruit and vegetables, excellent wines and tasty cheese!

Our next stop before heading up to Cradle Mountain was at Ashgrove Cheese . There were plenty of samples to try and some very tasty cheese made its way into our provisions.

Cradle Mountain (Days 8/9/10/11)

After eating far too many raspberries and cheese products we made our way up to Cradle Mountain which was our base for the next 2 days/3 nights.

You will notice on the drive there are dead trees everywhere – in some places it looked like an alien landscape. When we asked in the park about this we were told that the damage is being caused due to climate change.

Scientists are studying the area and the effects of sustained heat/droughts which is having such a massive impact on the area. A real wake up call.

Take a tour of the park

We took a tour from our hotel of the park at dusk which was an amazing time to see the animals. Standing in a field surrounded by wombats was just amazing!

We saw pademelons, wombats, echidna, and possums out in the park. The guide was also really knowledgeable so we were able to learn a lot about the various wildlife too.

Take one of the many hikes around the park

There are lots of hikes to do in the park with the shorter walk around the Dove Lake Circuit one of the most popular. The Dove Lake Circuit is only 6 km and a fairly easy couple of hours.

Alternatively if you prefer something very short but very beautiful try the Enchanted Walk which takes about 20 minutes and starts at Cradle Mountain Lodge!

Visit the Devils @ Cradle

This is a wildlife conservation facility on Cradle Mountain dedicated primarily to the care of Tasmanian devils (though they do have quolls there too).

We paid $75 each for a joey encounter which enabled us to see some of the captive-born joeys that are being raised at the sanctuary. We found it very informative and loved meeting the animals.

My favourite was a young wombat named Pancake whose mother had been killed in a car park. Unfortunately, this is all too common as wombats have no sense of danger when it comes to cars and many people do not think to double-check before reversing.

How to get into the park

Cars are not allowed in the park during the hours of 8:30 – 4:30 pm in winter and 8:00 – 6:00 pm in summer.

If you want to go into the park catch a FREE shuttle bus which will drop you in a number of places along the way.

You need to purchase entry tickets for the park. See below for park ticket passes and information.

We booked 3 nights at the world-class Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge . From the moment we arrived at the Lodge we knew this was an incredibly special place to be.

Our room was perfect, our welcome hamper superb, the setting, the wombats wandering around the lodge, the spa, the restaurant everything just made for a wonderful experience.

If you enjoy spas I would highly recommend spending some time in “The Sanctuary” at the onsite Waldheim Alpine Spa . The private sanctuary has a sauna, steam room, large hot tub and a cool plunge pool as well as a lounge area and is available for 60/90/120 minutes for your exclusive use.

Overlooking the Pencil Pine River and surrounded by King Billy Pines this is the perfect place to relax.

We drove back to Hobart on day 11 from Cradle Mountain. The drive took approximately 4 hours so we had enough time to head to MONA before checking into our airport accommodation for the evening.

As I have already mentioned MONA I won’t go into it again but I think next time I would try to fly into Hobart and out from Launceston to avoid losing a day driving back down the island.

This would have perhaps enabled us to explore more of the west of the island particularly Strahan. Next time!

On day 12 we sadly left Tasmania and flew home (on one of the most turbulent flights ever – not sure if had something to do with the notorious roaring 40’s)

Good to know when planning your trip to Tasmania

In Tasmania, you drive on the left (as in all of Australia!) There are stickers on the windscreens of hire cars and as you drive away from the airport you will see road signs to remind visitors. You will also be given a leaflet when you pick up your hire car with important information about driving in Tasmania.

Apparently, it has been an issue for some visitors to Tasmania.

Be mindful of wild animals . I have been nowhere in the world that seems to have the number of animals wandering the roadsides! Wallabies, echidnas, possums, devils, wombats everywhere! And unfortunately, too many of them splattered. Be especially careful at dawn and dusk.

On a more positive note if you are there during the right seasons keep an eye out for fruit and veg being sold by the roadside. Pull over, help yourself (well pay first!) and then eat your body weight in cherries, raspberries, apples etc. Delicious!

If you are driving from the north back down to Hobart I would highly recommend you take the 1 motorway.

We decided to take the scenic route on the A5. Mistake. Gravel, no other humans for hours, smoke in the trees and a potential flat tyre (luckily it was something stuck on the tyre – not an animal!) made this a not altogether pleasant few hours. Forget the scenery and stick to the main route!!

Tasmania has a climate of 4 seasons . The warmest months are between December and March (summer) when temperatures range between 17 and 23 degrees celsius.

In winter temperatures can dip as low as 3 degrees with highs of only 11 degrees. If you are visiting Cradle Mountain you can expect even colder temperatures with ice and snow in the winter months.

Even in warmer months temperatures can vary greatly so it is best to be prepared for all weather conditions. We visited in January and experienced unusually hot weather with temperatures of 28 degrees on Cradle Mountain. The week before it had been 13 degrees!

One of the BEST things about Tasmania in the summer months are the lighter evenings ! In January it was daylight after 9 in the evening. A real treat for those of us from Queensland (aka the land of no daylight savings!!!)

If you are planning to visit more than one of the National Parks while in Tasmania it may be cost-effective to purchase a Tasmania National Parks Pass. There are a total of 17 parks so chances are you will!

The Holiday Pass pass covers entry into all of Tasmania’s national parks for up to two months and also provides free use of the Cradle Mt shuttle bus.

The Holiday Pass costs

• $56 per vehicle up to 8 seats; or
• $28 per person

Alternatively, you can buy a daily pass which costs

• $22 per vehicle up to 8 seats; or
• $11 per person

Click here to purchase your pass!

Parks and Wildlife Services – For information on the various parks, hikes, maps and up-to-date information on conditions.

Booking.com – For hotels around Tasmania I used booking dot com. I like the ability to have the option to choose free cancellation. They also have a wide range of properties to choose from to suit all budgets.

Enjoy your trip to Tasmania

We loved Tasmania! We have seen quite a lot of Australia since we moved here from Europe and it is easily one of the most beautiful places we have visited in the world.

Tasmania is made for road trips and we will definitely be returning to explore more of the country in the future.

Have a fantastic time!

I have lots of information on my blog about travel in Australia including more posts dedicated to Tasmania.

• Top tips to make the best of your Tasmania trip
• A guide to the wildlife of Tasmania
• Check out my comprehensive guide to Australia which includes links to all my articles

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A 10-day Tasmania road trip itinerary

Updated On 30th September, 2021

If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania and are wondering what your Tasmania road trip could look like or what you should do with your time there, you’ve arrived at the right blog post. In this blog post, I am going to share a 10-day Tasmania road trip itinerary with you, jam-packed with all the best places to visit in Tasmania. It’s one of the best places to visit in Australia and certainly somewhere you should consider for a road trip in Australia!

This 10-day Tasmania road trip is perfect for those who want a real taste for what Australia has to offer. Whether you like hikes and bikes, penguin watching, distilleries or heritage sites, Tasmania is an absolute must for internationals visiting Australia as well as Australians looking for a domestic trip that feels like you have gone on an international adventure. This epic road trip itinerary, which is one of the best things to do in Australia , will take you through all the best places to visit in Tasmania.

Of course, this Tasmania road trip itinerary is going to assume you have a car or van with you. I’m not sure it would be of any use for me to write an itinerary for you whilst staying at your hotel lol. However, if you have booked to stay in one place during your time in Tasmania, you may want to use this post to inspire a day trip in Tasmania or to add an extension to your existing booking.

If you want to know more about renting a campervan in Australia, check out this blog post. 

After all, road trips are the best!

Other blog posts you might find useful…

• Hiring a campervan in Australia
• A guide to freedom camping in Australia
• The best things to do in Australia
• Australia: the ultimate travel guide
• Everything you need to know about farm work in Australia
• A guide to solo travel in Australia
• Australia: the ultimate East Coast bucket list
• The best things to do in Sydney

A 10-day road trip itinerary for Tasmania...

I’m going to begin and end this road trip in Tasmania in Devonport, so it’s the perfect Australia road trip if you’re looking for a loop route! This itinerary focuses on East Tasmania and goes in a clockwise direction, but there’s no reason why you couldn’t enjoy this Tasmania road trip itinerary in the other direction. 

This is a 10-day road trip itinerary for Tasmania, but there’s no reason why you can’t adapt it to be a 1-week itinerary, or take your time and spend 3 or 4 weeks completing this route! The absolute best way to see this magical wild place is by camping and caravanning. Tasmania is a camper’s heaven with so many beautiful waterfront and nature immersed campsites. With many of these being free, you can save your money for the experiences, park entry and local food! 

See my guide to freedom camping in Australia here. 

I explored Tasmania in my own van, if you don’t have a van/caravan you can easily rent one from places like Appolo or Britz , or if you’re looking for something more homey, you can rent vans on Camplify starting at $70 a day. Trying to do it on a budget? Then pack a tent and you are ready to go!

However much I love van life, this trip is equally doable in a car, if you prefer. I’d recommend using Airbnb or  Booking.com  for the best accommodation along your route.

In terms of getting to Tasmania, this island state is only a short 2-hour flight from Sydney. You can also get to Tasmania by The Spirit of Tasmania. This ferry runs twice a day and can take you and your car/van from Melbourne, Victoria to Devonport, Tasmania in around 11 hours. Tickets start at around $130 per adult and $100 for a car/motorhome each way. You can also choose to book a cabin to get a good night’s sleep starting at $149 per cabin. Be aware that prices fluctuate in peak season and do sell out, so book in advance! Book your Spirit of Tasmania tickets here. 

Weather in Tasmania: When to visit Tasmania…

Whether you decide to do the full 10-day Tasmania road trip itinerary, pick and choose your favourites for a weekend getaway or immerse yourself for a longer stay, these are a few of my absolute favourite places to visit in Tasmania from my four months exploring this beautiful island state in my van.

If you’re planning a road trip in Tasmania and wondering ‘what is the weather like in Tasmania?’ or ‘when to visit Tasmania’, the best months to visit are between November-February, to avoid the winter closures of some areas. Either way, be sure to pack some warm clothes and a rain jacket (even in the summer months!), so you can enjoy whatever the weather throws at you on your Tasmania road trip. Also, be sure to grab a Tasmania Parks Pass (2 months for $80), which will allow you access into some campsites and all major parks for the trip. 

Day 1: The Nut, Stanley

• Driving time: 2 hours

It’s Day 1 of this Tasmania road trip itinerary and I hope you’re raring to go! 

After taking the Spirit across from what the locals call “the mainland”, you will arrive in Devonport in Northern Tasmania. Head west for 1.5 hours towards the historic seaside village of Stanley, one of the best places to visit in Tasmania and best known for ‘The Nut’: a sheer sided bluff that is all that remains of the volcanic plug. 

The Nut is accessible by chairlift for $17 pp, or on foot, but be prepared for a short steep climb to get to the top. Follow the 4.6km circuit around the grassy plains of the Nut taking in the stunning sights from above.  

When you’re finished, head into town and wander down Church Street to try the Tasmanian special: the famous scallop pie at Touchwood Cafe. They are also known for their ‘The Nut’ scones that are made even better when enjoyed from this rustic wall to wall glass dining room overlooking the town. 

Make the 20-minute drive towards Peggs Beach Campground for the night ($13 for 2 people).

Day 2: Cradle Mountain

• Driving time: 3 hours

On your second day of your Tasmania road trip  you’re heading to one of the best places to visit in Tasmania: Cradle Mountain.

Get an early start on the day and drive southeast towards the wild west of Cradle Mountain. This iconic wilderness world heritage destination is a 2.5 hour drive from Stanley and is home to some of the most diverse natural beauty that Tasmania has on offer. From the moss covered rainforests to glacial lakes, it’s no wonder Cradle is such a popular place to visit in Tasmania year round. 

The park provides a free shuttle with purchase of a Parks Pass, so park in the main car park, head to the visitor information centre to get your shuttle tickets, and make your way into the park. 

Take the shuttle to Dove Lake where you can choose from an array of walks in Cradle Mountain. You can spend the full day (8hrs+) hiking to the peak, or keep it to a half day loop winding your way up to Marrion’s Lookout overlooking Dove Lake, and then back through the forest towards Ronnie Creek, where you can encounter a wisdom of wombats traversing the wide grassy plains.  

If you have ever dreamed of seeing a Tasmanian Devil then be sure to check out the after dark feeding tours at the Devil’s at Cradle Sanctuary where you have the chance to interact with these near extinct animals at their most active time ($37.50 AUD pp). This is definitely one of the best things to do in Tasmania! 

Head about 30 minutes out of Cradle to find camp for the night at Lake Gairdner Campground. 

Day 3: Launceton

Heading east for 2 hours, make your way towards the riverside city of Launceston for the day. This is one of the most popular places to visit in Tasmania and a must do on your road trip in Tasmania!

The first stop is Grindelwald, a small village in Tamar Valley Resort on the outskirts of Launceston. This stunning little village was in fact named and inspired by a village in Switzerland and created by a local businessman for his wife who wanted to move to Switzerland.

It features traditional Swiss-German architecture and is a great place to come try your hand at Putt Putt, feed the resident ducks down by the lake and grab some freshly made crepes and a coffee from Miss A Sippy Cafe overlooking the courtyard. 

Once you have had your fill, head into Launceston to explore the beautiful Cataract Gorge. One of the best things to do in Tasmania is to take a walk down the original 1890’s pathway towards the South Esk River to the urban reserve with its rolling lawns and meandering peacocks.  

If you love Indian, be sure to finish the day by grabbing dinner at Pickled Evenings. Open from 5pm, they do an incredible Cheese and Garlic Kulcha and their curries are divine. Portions are on the smaller side, so grab extra rice if you’re hungry, but the flavours are worth it. 

Then make the short 30-minute drive east to camp for the night at Lilydale Falls Campground. 

Day 4: Lavender Fields and Floating Sauna

• Driving time:

Start the day with a quick explore of the Lilydale Falls and then head 20 minutes east to Bridestowe Lavender Estate to explore the picturesque fields. This is one of the best things to do in Tasmania, not only because of the beautiful purple of the lavender but also because of the cafe! Try one of the many lavender infused items from the cafe, like the subtle flavoured lavender ice cream!

Then drive about 1 hour to the little mountain town of Derby to finish the afternoon with an hour of relaxation at the famous Floating Sauna. Only a short 10 minute walk from town, this woodfired sauna with a window overlooking Derby lake offers a scenic, one of a kind, hot-cold immersion experience. Sessions run for an hour and cost $45 pp. Be sure to book as these spots sell out fast!

Head back into town and sleep at the free camp in town. 

Find out more about freedom camping in Australia here. 

Day 5: Derby

• Driving time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Derby is the one of the best places to go mountain biking in Australia. The Blue Derby network consists of 125km of trails winding through the beautiful local forests and ancient ferns beginning in the centre of town. 

One of the best things to do in Tasmania is to get a taste of the trails by renting a bike in town and spend the morning exploring! Beginners can enjoy a scenic ride around Derby Lake, while more intermediate and advanced riders can head up on a shuttle and explore the downhill trails. 

Finish your ride with a well deserved pizza at The Hub from $13-22 AUD and make your way east for 1.5 hours to Swimcart Beach Campground in the Bay of Fires for the night. 

Day 6: Bay of Fires and Bicheno

It’s day 6 on our Tasmania road trip itinerary and it’s a good day for an early start. Wake up for sunrise and enjoy coffee with views overlooking the crystal clear blue waters of the Bay of Fires. Spend the morning exploring the beaches, go for a dip, or a surf if the conditions are right!

After that, pack up and head 1.5 hr south to Bicheno. Grab a pastry from Little Bay Collective and take a walk on the beautiful Waubs beach. 

In the evening be sure to check out the penguins in Bicheno! You can book a tour with Bicheno Penguin Tours for $40 pp or go down by yourself down near the boat ramp, but be sure to not shine lights on them or take photos with a flash. Pick a spot, be still and enjoy the magic. 

Drive 15 minutes south to sleep at Friendly Beaches campground. 

Day 7: Mt Atmos and Wineglass Bay

• Driving time: 1 hour 25 minutes

The next stop is a 25-minute drive to Freycinet National Park to hike the rugged Mt Atmos overlooking the beautiful sweeping beach of Wineglass Bay. These are two of the best places to visit in Tasmania. 

The Mt. Atmos track is 3.6km and I recommend you allow 3 hours with its steep climb with rocky wet slabs in some parts. Be conscious of recent rainfall, bring water and wear comfortable grippy shoes. 

Not up for a climb? Then check out the 2.6 km return Wineglass Bay Lookout track, another one of the best things to do in Tasmania, which delivers similar views from a more accessible vantage point. 

Finish with dinner in town with a casual bite to eat at Richardson’s Bistro or for a more fine dining experience check out The Bay Restaurant with their seasonal menu. Then drive 1-hour to Mayfeild Beach campground for the night. 

Day 8: Hobart Outskirts

• Driving time: 2 hours 50 minutes

In the morning of day 8 of this Tasmania road trip itinerary head 1 hour south to the National Heritage Listed Richmond Bridge to see Australia’s oldest stone arch bridge built by convict labour in 1825. 

Then, if it’s a weekend, one of the best things to do in Tasmania is to head into Hobart’s Salamanca markets on Saturday and farmgate markets on Sunday to sample the best of Tasmania’s artisans, designers, wine makers and distillers. 

Finish the afternoon driving south along the beautiful Huon Valley for a cider tasting at Pagan cider cellar door. You will be able to try their full range of ciders including their seasonal small-batch blends that you can only get at the cellar door (the quince is an absolute must!).

Free camping is limited near Hobart, so either head back into town and treat yourself for a night in a hotel, or head to The Leah bush camping area for $10 pp. 

Day 9: Mona and Mt Wellington

• Driving time: 1 hour 50 minutes

On day 9 of your road trip in Tasmania drive into Hobart and up to Mt Wellington. Get a coffee at the Lost Freight Cafe and then drive the rest of the way to the top to enjoy your coffee overlooking Hobart. 

Head to MONA and spend a few hours getting connected to the wacky and weird in the Museum of Old and New Art. Throw out the stereotypical ‘boring’ museums and make sure you don’t miss this unique place to visit in Tasmania: this one of a kind labyrinth leads you down a spiraling staircase to the basement, that progressively winds its way through an array of art. Come with an open mind and enjoy this eclectic museum for $30 pp.

When you’re done, grab a plant based burger from Dubsy’s and enjoy it while sitting on the lawn and see if you can spot the resident chickens running free.  

Head to Kempton free camp for the night. 

Day 10: Jacob's Ladder / Kempton Distillery

• Driving time: 4 hours 20 minutes (or 2 hours 30 minutes if skipping Jacob's Ladder)

Jacob’s ladder, a moody and winding cliffside road in Ben Lomond National Park, is a 3.5 hour drive from Hobart. This is an invaluable habitat for wallabies and pademelons and a photographer’s dream. It’s by far one of the best places to visit in Australia, never mind one of the best places to visit in Tasmania, and if you are up for a longer drive today, you absolutely must go.

However, if you’re not wanting to take the detour on the last day of your road trip in Tasmania, you can skip Jacob’s Ladder and book yourself a tour of the Kempton Distillery at 11am for $35pp to enjoy their range of small batch whiskies.

And with that, our Tasmania road trip itinerary has come to an end, and it’s time to head back to Devonport!

Have you been on a Tasmania road trip?

Where are your favourite things to do in Tasmania? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring,

I am a writer, podcaster and traveller fascinated with what it takes to thrive in a more alternative lifestyle. After years of trying to fit the mould, I ditched the 9-5, moved to Canada to work as a ski instructor, and have been living a little differently travelling the world ever since. I now live in my van with my partner and our pup, exploring Australia all while discovering what it takes to thrive in this unconventional nomadic lifestyle.

See all Claire’s adventures here.

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Ultimate 8-Day Self Drive Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary Planner

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: March 30, 2024

From hiking in Cradle Mountain to wildlife spotting in Freycinet National Park, this self drive Tasmania itinerary highlights the best places to visit in Tasmania and where to stay. It includes helpful driving distances to help plan an easy trip around Tasmania.

A Tasmanian road trip should rank highly on the bucket list of anyone planning a visit to Australia because Tasmania is one of the most beautiful places you could wish to visit.

Tasmania is filled with fantastic scenery, great outdoor activities, wildlife and culture, and after spending six weeks in the land down under, I can honestly say that the eight days I spent driving around Tasmania were my favourite.

Exploring the great outdoors is my passion, and although Tasmania is an island, it still has a diverse range of landscapes perfect for discovering on a road trip, including mountain escapes, coastal towns and city settlements, which is why I loved it so much.

Australia’s largest island state feels untouched by the outside world, which is difficult to imagine until you have visited it yourself, so follow my Tasmania road trip itinerary for one of the world’s best road trips.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.

Table of Contents

Useful Information About Tasmania

Travel to tasmania.

Tasmania is an island off Australia’s mainland and, as such, can only be reached by water or air.

The Spirit of Tasmania Ferry from Melbourne to Devonport is an easy choice if you want to travel through the night.

We booked onto the overnight ferry to sleep during the nine-hour crossing and wake up refreshed in Tasmania.

This didn’t quite pan out as expected due to sailing in stormy waters, so we were pretty tired when we disembarked.

If your sea legs aren’t entirely up to a sometimes rough crossing, then flying into Tasmania from one of the mainland’s regional airports will be your best bet.

The two main airports in Tasmania are in the island’s capital, Hobart and Launceston.

Flight times from Melbourne are a little over one hour. From Sydney, flights will take two hours.

For your Tasmania road trip, you can rent a vehicle in Devonport , Hobart, or Launceston.

Driving around Tasmania

Driving is on the left-hand side, so if you come from the UK, it will be the same as driving back home.

Tasmania is excellent to explore on a road trip. The roads are well-maintained, signposts are good, and the scenery is out of this world!

Wildlife in Tasmania is abundant, so you must be vigilant when driving around Tasmania to be alert to the potential of animals on the roads. At dawn and dusk, the wildlife is particularly lively.

Sadly, a lot of roadkill is scattered on the roadside verges, so be prepared. It was not something I expected to see, and I found it upsetting.

Accommodation in Tasmania

There are plenty of great places to stay in Tasmania, ranging from cabins, apartments, BandBs, and luxury hotels, so there is something to suit all budgets.

It is worth booking your stay in Tasmania in advance as it is a popular visitor destination, especially in the peak season, and lodgings can get booked quickly.

Cradle Mountain accommodation , in particular, is always in demand and can often be booked out completely.

Weather in Tasmania

Tasmania is an outdoor playground that can be visited at any time of the year.

Over the winter months, expect snowfall and low temperatures, especially in the mountains. If you enjoy skiing, snow sports, winter scenes and log cabins, this is the time to visit.

If you prefer moderate temperatures and don’t mind some rainfall, then spring or autumn will suit you perfectly.

I visited Tasmania at the end of February, just as summer turned to autumn, and I had a few days of rain but mostly sunshine. It was perfect weather to enjoy hiking in the wilderness.

Tasmania travel in summer will see temperatures increase, so factor that into any plans you have for long hikes and mountain climbs.

Best places to visit on an 8-day road trip around Tasmania

• Sheffield – the unique town of murals
• Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake – the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness
• Strahan – the gateway to Gordon River cruises
• Coles Bay – home to Freycinet National Park
• Port Arthur – historic penal settlement and open-air museum
• Hobart – the capital of Tasmania

Self Drive Tasmania Road Trip Map

Tasmania Travel Itinerary

Day one and two – sheffield and cradle mountain.

Our 8-day Tasmania self drive itinerary started on a crisp summer morning in February as we arrived in Devonport on the overnight ferry from Melbourne .

We quickly picked up the Kia rental car we had pre-booked for our road trip and were ready to head to our first stop in Tasmania, the mural town of Sheffield, which was on the route to Cradle Mountain.

The driving time from Devonport to Sheffield is 25 minutes

As a lover of street art , I couldn’t wait to see the charming Tasmanian town of Sheffield.

It is famous for its murals covering just about every shop front and building in town and its annual Muralfest event, which attracts hundreds of creatives competing to leave their mark on this normally sleepy town.

If you arrive on an early morning ferry like us, you will find that the town doesn’t get going until around 8.30 am, which gives you time to take some fabulous photographs of the murals with no one around.

When the town starts to stir, head to one of the cafes for breakfast before continuing your drive to Cradle Mountain.

Learn about Sheffield in my blog post, the Mural Town of Sheffield .

Leaving Sheffield, the view of Mount Roland is incredible as it rises in the distance.

The drive to Cradle Mountain is straightforward; the driving directions are below:

Stay on the C136 after leaving Sheffield and turn onto the C132 at Moina.

Continue on this road until you come to Cradle Mountain Road, which will take you to the town centre, where you will find most of the Cradle Mountain accommodation and the Cradle Mountain Information Centre.

The driving time from Sheffield to Cradle Mountain is 60 minutes

Cradle mountain.

Cradle Mountain must be on your itinerary if you love being outdoors and connecting with nature.

It feels untouched by technology and outside influences and has strict policy codes about the number of visitors allowed into the national park daily.

For that reason, you have to buy a pass to gain access. This can be picked up from the Cradle Mountain visitor centre, and funds go toward the upkeep of Tasmania’s national parks and reserves. 

When you visit Cradle Mountain National Wilderness Park, you will discover waterfalls, valleys, mountain hikes, lake walks and wildlife.

We did several walks, including the incredible Dove Lake Walk and loved every moment.

One evening we visited the Tasmanian Devils’ sanctuary , one of the fun things to do in Tasmania. We watched them feed and learned more about Australia’s iconic creature.

Read more about how we spent two nights in Cradle Mountain and why it became our favourite place in Tasmania.

Where to stay in cradle mountain.

One thing to remember is that Cradle Mountain is undoubtedly the most popular place to visit in Tasmania, so accommodation in Cradle Mountain is always in demand.

If you plan on staying at Peppers Cradle Mountain Resort, the Cradle Mountain Hotel or Cradle Mountain Lodge, you must book far in advance.

We stayed at the Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village , which I had booked six months before my trip.

Day Three and Day Four – Strahan

The driving time from cradle mountain to strahan is two hours..

Once we had left Cradle Mountain, we headed for our next stop in Strahan on Tasmania’s west coast.

Driving Directions from Cradle Mountain to Strahan

To reach Strahan, drive along the C132 from Cradle Mountain and eventually join the A10 Murchinson Highway.

While you are driving along the highway, you will pass Lake Rosebury. It is worth stopping here to take photographs and enjoy the scenery. The reflections of the trees in the water are mesmerising.

Continue along the A10 and join the B28, which takes you passed Lake Plimsoll, a trout fishery.

We continued our drive on the A10 until we reached the B24, which took us into Strahan.

I included two nights in Strahan on my road trip itinerary as the historic village intrigued me.

It is the remotest village on Tasmania’s west coast and was once a bustling port during Tasmania’s mining mecca of the 1800s.

It is now home to Gordon River Cruises, famous throughout Australia for taking visitors through the magnificent heritage wilderness of Franklin Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.

We had intended to join one of the cruises, but sadly, lousy weather stopped that, so we left without experiencing it ourselves.

We got one good day in Strahan, so we popped down to the town, familiarised ourselves with some craft shops, walked around the water’s edge, and discovered what a “Bottle-O” was.

For my non-Australian readers, it is a dedicated off-licence as alcohol is not sold in supermarkets; a strange experience for me coming from the UK as a bottle of wine is often featured on my supermarket shopping list next to my fruit and veg!

We stayed in a lovely Airbnb property (no longer listed), where we caught up on our washing. That’s one of the chores you still must do on a long trip. There’s no getting away from needing clean clothes!

Learn about Strahan in my blog post: Eight great things to Do in Strahan , for an idea of the activities on offer during your stay.

Where to stay in strahan.

Strahan has varied accommodations, from apartments to camping grounds. I have listed several places that will suit all budgets and lifestyles.

Aloft Boutique Apartments  – these contemporary, self-contained apartments are less than a 5-minute drive from Ocean Beach. They have private patios, free wifi, and on-site parking.

Check availability and pricing for Aloft Boutique Apartments

Salt Box Hideaway  – this one-bedroom apartment offers mountain and sea views and free wifi. It is a cosy retreat after a day of exploring the hidden gems in Strahan.

Check availability and pricing for Salt Box Hideaway

Strahan Village  – a favourite holiday accommodation for visitors to the Tassie town of Strahan, offers several dining options. Fantastic views of Macquarie Bay from most of the rooms.

Check availability and pricing for Strahan Village

Strahan Backpackers  – features quirky, budget accommodation, a shared lounge, a garden, barbecue facilities and a terrace.

Check availability and pricing for Strahan Backpackers

Macquarie Head Campsite  – situated at the entrance to the harbour, this campsite might have one of the best views in Strahan!

Check availability and pricing for Macquarie Head campsite

Day Five – On the Road: Strahan to Coles Bay

The driving time from strahan to coles bay is 5 hours and 30 minutes, driving directions from strahan to coles bay.

Leaving Strahan, we took the B24 Lyell Highway for our long drive to Coles Bay and the incredible Freycinet National Park. Only two roads take you in and out of Strahan, so you can’t get lost.

When you eventually come to a fork in the road, after around an hour, you must turn right onto the A10.

Once on this road, there are several tourist spots to see if you have time, including Iron Blow Lookout and Nelson Falls.

I didn’t stop at either of these, so I can’t give an opinion on whether they are worth seeing, but they feature in many Tasmania travel books.

Lake St Clair National Park

After two hours of driving, we turned off at Derwent Bridge to see Lake St Clair, part of the Cradle Mountain National Park.

Over six days, a well-trodden and challenging 65km hike called the Overland Track can be done from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair. It is a popular trail among hikers, so bookings must be made well in advance.

When we arrived in the Lake St Clair car park, we met a couple that had completed their hike along the Overland Track; they said it was hard but worth it for the scenery. I would love to do it someday if I ever return to Tasmania.

Once out of the car, we grabbed lunch from the onsite cafe and set off to stretch our legs and explore the lake.

The rain that had been with us since leaving Strahan had finally stopped, and an ethereal mist had descended over Lake St Clair, making it look somewhat eerie but magical.

It is probably prettier in the sunshine with a backdrop of blue skies, but we weren’t bothered. Being alone at the lake, apart from one lone wallaby, was perfect for us.

Driving Directions from Lake St Clair to Coles Bay

Back in the car, we continued along the A10 Lyell Highway until we reached the B11 turning (on the left-hand side) near Bronte Park.

From here, we continued for another three hours until we reached Apslawn, where we got out to stretch our legs.

The place we found to stop was at the Devil’s Corner Cellar Door , where I planned to pick up a bottle of local wine to enjoy that evening.

Sadly, it was closed as we had arrived too late (I have a habit of lingering in places a bit too long, i.e. Lake St Clair!), so all we could do was enjoy the beautiful view of Coles Bay and the butterflies.

Finally, at the end of day five, we arrived at Edge of the Bay Resort in the Coles Bay Conservation Area to spend two nights.

The accommodation blew me away, and after a sunset mooch around the resort, we settled down for the night, ready for a full day in Freycinet National Park in the morning.

Where to Stay in Coles Bay

Eagles Peak Freycinet  is a choice of luxury one and two-bedroom cabins set by the beach with garden and sea views.

Pricing and Availability for Eagles Peak

Freycinet Lodge  has a waterfront location and offers secluded cabins in a coastal bush setting, two restaurants and a bar.

Pricing and availability for Freycinet Lodge

Hazards Hideaway  – An entire one-bedroom holiday house with one bathroom, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with sensational views.

Pricing and availability for Hazards Hideaway

Freycinet Resort  – Freycinet Resort offers luxurious accommodations with 360-degree views of The Hazards, Friendly Beaches, Great Oyster Bay and the Tasman Sea.

Pricing and availability for Freycinet Resort

Big 4 Freycinet  – This self-catering accommodation is just a minute’s walk from the white sand beaches of Coles Bay. 

Pricing and Availability for Big 4 Freycinet

Saffire Freycinet  – For complete luxury but with a hefty price tag, Saffire is the most premium accommodation in Freycinet National Park.

Reviews for Saffire Freycinet

Is there any Freycinet camping allowed in the national park?

Yes.  Richardsons Beach Campground  is adjacent to the visitor centre within the park.

Day Six – Exploring Freycinet National Park

Freycinet – hiking, beaches and breathtaking scenery.

After exploring the west coast and the central wilderness of Tasmania, it was time to hit up the east coast at Freycinet National Park.

It is undoubtedly one of the must-see places in Tasmania, and some unmissable sights in Freycinet National Park include Wineglass Bay, Cape Tourville Lighthouse, and Honeymoon Bay. These spectacular Tasmanian landmarks are a “must-see” on lists of Australia’s best places to visit.

There are plenty of hiking trails in Freycinet National Park for all abilities, from gentle circular routes to the more ambitious 3.6km Mount Amos hike. We enjoyed the 3km Wineglass Lookout walk, unsurprisingly all uphill. Even though we ended up pretty hot at the top, the views from the lookout point made up for it.

Beaches feature heavily in the Freycinet landscape, with several close to the main Freycinet visitor’s area.

Learn more about Freycinet in my blog post on 11 sensational things to do in Freycinet National Park .

Day Seven – On the Road: Coles Bay to Hobart

The driving time from coles bay to hobart is 2 hours 30 minutes with no stops (or a lot longer if you divert to see unscheduled attractions as we did).

I was sad to leave Coles Bay and the incredible Freycinet National Park, but it was time to hit the road again and head to our final stop in Hobart, Tasmania’s capital.

Of course, I didn’t simply want to drive from A to B; I had already researched several places along the East Coast I wanted to see, meaning I had to divert from my route to Hobart and side-track to the Tasman peninsula.

Driving Directions from Coles Bay to Port Arthur

We headed out of Coles Bay on the C302 and joined the A3 Tasman Highway after driving for 25 minutes.

We continued for 90 minutes to the town of Orford, where I turned off the Tasman Highway and onto the right-hand fork of the C320 Welangta Road. You can also drive the coastal C320; it will just take longer.

Then take the C336 Bream Creek Road, which quickly joins the C335 Kellevie Road until you reach the forked turning of A9 Arthur Highway. Turn left.

Continue along the A9, and it will take you to Port Arthur via two other places worth a stop. One is Eaglehawk Neck, The Blow Hole, and a weirdly sounded tourist attraction, the Tessellated Pavement.

A stop to see the Blow Hole at Eaglehawk Neck

Eaglehawk Neck is a narrow strip of land with water on both sides, and the blowhole is on it.

Stand and watch the ocean push through the ‘hole in the rock’ and blow its water high into the air. Stand close enough to the railings, and you are in for a soaking.

A stop to see the Tessellated Pavement

The Tessellated Pavement, formed of rock about 300 million years ago, proved hard to find.

When we did, I wasn’t that impressed, regardless of it supposedly being one of Tasmania’s best-kept secrets.

Unless you are really curious to see it, I would give it a miss.

After leaving the Tessellated Pavement, hop back on the A9 to Port Arthur. It is a 30-minute drive.

If you have time to spare, you might also want to stop at Port Arthur Lavender and Tasmanian Devil Unzoo.

We left these two Port Arthur landmarks out of our itinerary because we had to get to Hobart, and I didn’t want to drive in the dark.

Port Arthur historic penal settlement

One place you must visit in Tasmania is the Port Arthur historic site. This historic penal settlement is one of 11 places comprising the UNESCO Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property.

Wander around this massive 19th-century prison site and learn about the hardened criminals who lived alongside children who had committed minor crimes like stealing apples.

Many inmates, even children, had been shipped to Port Arthur from the United Kingdom when Australia was the place to send convicts!

Information boards scattered around the site give you insight into what life was like at Port Arthur.

Don’t miss the shows with character actors portraying daily life for inmates, guards and the warden. The shows are excellent, and I would recommend watching one of them.

Make sure to take the leisurely boat ride in Carnarvon Bay. It sails around the Isle of the Dead, the convict’s burial site.

The scenery around Port Arthur is spectacular, so it’s easy to forget this was once one of Australia’s most significant penal settlements.

While at Port Arthur, don’t miss visiting the ruins of the Convict Church, built by inmates – also the solitary confinement cells in the Separate Prison.

If you are brave enough, step inside the windowless cell, shut the door and see how long you can last. It’s not for the faint-hearted!

Driving Directions from Port Arthur to Hobart

After visiting Port Arthur, leave the site and drive back the way you came on the A9.

After driving for around 2 hours, you will come to the town of Sorell and the end of the Arthur Highway (A9). From Sorell, jump onto the Tasman Highway (A3 into Hobart).

You will cross by pretty bays and travel across large stretches of water with dramatic views as you get nearer to Hobart. We enjoyed seeing the changing colours at dusk as the sun began to set.

Day Eight – Exploring Hobart

Hobart, the capital of tasmania.

Waking in Hobart only reminded me that we were coming towards the end of our time in Tasmania, which was a really sad feeling.

We had loved everything about Tasmania and would have stayed for a lot longer if we had known how beautiful and welcoming it would be. Nevertheless, we still had one full day left to explore Hobart, and we would make the most of it.

Being the capital of Tasmania means there are plenty of things to see in Hobart, and the waterfront is the best place to start.

You will find Constitution Dock and Franklin Wharf here, where you can wander around, see moored boats, and visit cafes and restaurants.

You can also visit Australia’s second oldest museum, the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG).

Close by is Salamanca Place, home to the famous Saturday market in Hobart.

We missed the market as we arrived mid-week; however, Salamanca Place is full of lovely eateries, galleries and artisan shops.

Take the Kelly Steps from Salamanca Place to Battery Point to see the heritage houses in Arthur Circus, Hobart’s most affluent suburb.

And lastly, one place you must visit in Hobart is the botanical gardens ; the grounds are beautiful and if, like me, you love visiting botanic gardens around the world , this is one Hobart attraction you need to see.

You can find out more about Hobart in my blog post Best things to do in Hobart in two days

Where to stay in hobart.

If you are looking for a place to stay in Hobart, there are many heritage hotels, chain hotels and private rentals.

I have detailed one from each price range and also linked to the Booking.com website, which will show a variety of pricing and availability for Hobart properties.

Luxury –  MACq 01 Hotel  – Each room is linked to real Tasmanian characters ranging from heroes, explorers and inventors, making it a fun place to stay in luxurious surroundings by the waterfront.

Comfort –  Hadley’s Orient Hotel  – Built in 1834 and heritage-listed, this is Tasmania’s oldest continuously operating boutique hotel. It is located in the Central Business District, close to all the main tourist sites.

Budget –  Shipwrights Arms  – A heritage pub with rooms built in the mid-19th century and close to Battery Point. The rooms are clean, basic and comfortable and receive a good guest rating.

Booking.com  list lots of  accommodation in Hobart  to suit all budgets. Reservations can be cancelled within 24 hours of arrival, allowing flexibility in your schedule.

My final thoughts on Tasmania

After an amazing 8 day road trip around Tasmania, it was time to fly to Sydney.

We were to continue our 6-week Australian trip along the East Coast, but if the truth be told, we didn’t really want to leave.

While spending over a week road-tripping in Tasmania had been a fantastic experience for us both, we still felt we had only rubbed the surface of this fantastic island.

For this reason, I have vowed to return one day for an extended trip to Tasmania.

I will revisit places like Cradle Mountain and Hobart but also explore new places like Bridgestone Lavender, Billabong Bay, Mount Field National Park, Bruny Island and Maria Island, to name a few.

Until then, I have lovely memories of the sensational places in Tasmania I was lucky to see with my son and how one of the most unspoilt and beautiful places in the world has captured my heart forever!

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  resources page  to help you plan your trip.

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10 Day Tasmania Itinerary – A Bucket List Tasmania Road Trip

The state of Tasmania is home to some incredibly diverse landscapes and jaw dropping natural landmarks all packed into one island. From epic mountain ranges to spectacular beaches and unique wildlife, each drive will reward you with a different kind of scenery.

We have created this ultimate 10 day Tasmania itinerary to showcase the wonders that Tasmania has to offer. We made sure to include all of the must-see highlights as well as some lesser known gems to ensure your Tasmania road trip is just as epic as ours was.

Tasmania is simply made for road trips! It’s the only place in Australia where you’ll see so many amazing sights without having to drive for hundreds of kms per day.

After recently completing a Tasmania road trip on our lap around Australia, it’s safe to say that it was a stand out highlight of the entire journey. We hope that our comprehensive 10 day Tasmania itinerary helps you to plan your very own adventure in this special little corner of Australia!

Table of Contents

10 Day Tasmania Itinerary – Overview

Recommended stops.

• Hobart / Richmond

Port Arthur

• Maria Island
• Bay of Fires
• Launceston / Tamar Valley
• Stanley / Boat Harbour Beach
• Cradle Mountain
• Queenstown / Strahan
• Lake St Clair / Mt Field

10 Day Tasmania Road Trip Summary

Day 1 – Head straight out of Hobart and check out the small town of Richmond. Continue on to Port Arthur and explore the surrounding area/ Don’t worry, you’ll have time in Hobart at the end!

Night 1 – Port Arthur

Day 2 –  Head to Triabunna and catch the ferry to Maria Island. Spend the day meeting super cute wombats and seeing the painted cliffs

Night 2 – Triabunna

Day 3 –  A short drive up the coast to Freycinet National Park and the famous Wineglass Bay

Night 3 –  Freycinet / Coles Bay

Day 4 –  Continue heading north to the Bay of Fires. Spend the day enjoying the beautiful beaches and rock formations

Night 4 – Binalong Bay (Bay of Fires)

Day 5 – Launceston with optional detours to waterfalls, wineries and the Platypus House

Night 5 – Launceston

Day 6 –  Spend the morning in Launceston then head to the cute little town of Stanley via Burnie and Boat Harbour Beach

Night 6 – Stanley

Day 7   – Explore the beautiful surrounds of Cradle Mountain and climb to the summit if you dare!

Night 7 – Cradle Mountain

Day 8 –  Head to Queenstown and explore the awesome wilderness railway as well as the coastal town of Strahan

Night 8 – Strahan

Day 9 – Drive the amazingly scenic road back to Hobart via Mt Field National Park

Night 9 – Hobart

Day 10 – Finish your trip with a casual stroll around the attractions of Hobart and perhaps an eclectic ferry ride to MONA

Total Driving Time

~20 hours with optional detours included

Longest Stretch of Driving

4hr 42min (323km) – Strahan to Hobart via Mt Field NP

Total KM Covered

10 day tasmania itinerary highlights.

• Dramatic coastal rock formations around Port Arthur
• Spotting super cute wombats and seeing the Painted Cliffs on Maria Island
• The view of Wineglass Bay in the morning/evening light
• Seeing the elusive platypus up close at Platypus House
• Taking a dip at the beautiful Boat Harbour Beach
• Exploring the stunning Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park
• The West Coast Wilderness Railway in Queenstown
• Beautiful waterfalls in Mt Field National Park

Spectacular scenery to be seen on this Tasmania road trip

Can You Complete This 10 Day Tasmania Itinerary From Devonport?

Absolutely. A lot of people bring their own car/camper/caravan on the ferry. Just start the itinerary from Day 6  (minus the morning in Launceston). We have included an aside in this section to show how best to modify the itinerary in this case.

Accommodation for this Tasmania Road Trip

There are plenty of accommodation options available throughout this trip. If you have an RV or caravan then there are some great camp sites and caravan parks too. In each section we list our recommended accommodation and the best areas to stay.

Best Time of Year To Visit Tasmania

The weather is unfortunately very unpredictable in Tasmania! Being a very southerly landmass the temperatures are quite cool compared to most of Australia.

Summer is going to be the most reliable time to visit. December to March will have the best temperatures and lowest chance of rain. Don’t be afraid to travel in the bumper months, just bring some warmer clothing! We visited in April and had mostly good weather.

Come face to face with the sweetest wombats on Maria Island

Tasmania Road Trip Tips

• Buy a Parks Pass: You will need a pass for the national parks. The best option is the holiday pass that will cover one vehicle and everyone in it for 2 months. You can buy this when booking the Maria Island ferry on day 2.
• Don’t drive at night: Always plan your drives during daylight hours. There is a lot of wildlife along Tasmanian roads.
• Book ahead for popular stops:  Tasmania has amazing small town vibes everywhere but this does mean limited accommodation and tickets. Make sure to plan ahead, especially for Wineglass Bay, Cradle Mountain and the Wilderness Railway.
• Be prepared for 4 seasons: Tasmania has some wild weather fluctuations. If hiking or out for the day, make sure to pack for all conditions.

►Check out our list of all of the best Australian road trip tips  you must know before hitting the road!

The Best Travel Insurance for Road Trips

If you are travelling to Australia from overseas then make sure you have good travel insurance before hitting the road. We use  Heymondo when we travel as it’s perfect for adventures such as hiking, surfing, road tripping etc.

For peace of mind while abroad, Heymondo is one of the most reputable travel insurance companies that will provide you with simple and flexible coverage. Whether you are into adventurous activities or simply looking for trip cancellation and basic medical insurance, Heymondo has you covered.

As a reader of The Road Is Life, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance by using the link below!

►Get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance◄

Hiring a Car

Check out the best prices for hire cars in Hobart using the form below. We always use Rental Cars to find the best price between various operators. They have an option to include full insurance with no excess, which is highly recommended.

Explore the beautiful Boat Harbour Beach

10 Day Tasmania Itinerary – A Bucket List Road Trip

Day 1 – hobart to port arthur.

Tasmania may be a small state but it is packed full of great sights and experiences. To fit as much as possibly into a 10 day Tasmania itinerary, you’ll want to hit the ground running.

The easiest place to hire a car is right at the airport when you fly in. Depending on your arrival time you may be able to hit the road right away. If you have a late arrival you’ll at least be ready to go first thing the next morning.

Don’t worry about missing out on Hobart, you’ll have a full day at the end of the itinerary to explore the city. If you are coming across on the ferry to Devonport then skip ahead to day 5 . We have included a section on how to easily modify the itinerary to fit.

The historic Richmond Bridge

Optional detour via Richmond

Depending on time you might consider taking the scenic route to Port Arthur, via the historical town of Richmond . This will only add 15km or about 10 minutes to your travel time so is well worth it.

Richmond was founded in the early colonial days and has amazingly preserved historical buildings. The Richmond Bridge, built in 1823, is the oldest bridge still in use in the whole of Australia. They also have the oldest Anglican church in the country.

There are many sandstone buildings in the Georgian style that make for a lovely stroll around town. You will definitely want to check out the bridge as well as St Johns church and the old gaol.

Time permitting the following attractions also make great stops:

• Old Hobart Town – A model village displaying life in the early settlement of Hobart.
• Wicked Cheese Co – A selection of delicious cheeses made on site with fresh Tasmanian milk.
• Every Man and His Dog Vineyard – A great little boutique cellar door. The perfect place to pick up something local for your first night.
• Drink Tasmania Tasting House – A great little bar showcasing the best of Southern Tasmania’s wine and spirits producers.
• ZooDoo Zoo – A super comprehensive and quality zoo that feels more like a sanctuary. See Tasmanian natives plus a lot more.

Cape Raoul in Port Arthur

Jump back in the car and head for Port Arthur. It’s only a 1 hour drive from Richmond so you should have plenty of time to see the sights. Keep in mind that the ferry to Maria Island tomorrow is either at 10am or 11:30am so you won’t be able to see much tomorrow morning.

The main attraction here is of course the extensive Port Arthur Historic Site . This is the best example of a convict built settlement in the whole of Australia. Those interested in Australia’s convict history will want to head straight here and take one of the fantastic tours.

This is a popular attraction so if you want to hit the ground running then consider booking your tickets in advance .

Another option is to take the evening ghost tour. This will free up plenty of time to check out some of the great natural attractions on the peninsula. See below for a list of some of the best spots.

Devil’s Kitchen, Port Arthur

Natural attractions near Port Arthur:

• Remakable Cave and Maingon Bay Lookout – Only a short drive from Port Arthur, this spot offers a great view of the dramatic coastal cliffs.
• Tasmans Arch and Devils Kitchen Lookout – Located near Eaglehawk Neck, these sites can alternatively be visited when heading into or out of Port Arthur.
• Tessellated Pavement – Again right near Eaglehawk Neck, this is a great photo spot at sunrise and sunset.
• Cape Raoul Lookout – This spot is a little harder to reach than the others and involves a hike but is well worth it. You’ll be rewarded with amazing coastal views from your perch on top of a giant rock-face.

Where to Stay in Port Arthur

NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park   – This is the one stop shop for accommodation in Port Arthur! This beautiful park has a whole variety of cabins, safari tents and sites. The grounds are beautifully treed and full of birds and wallabies.

Day 2 – Maria Island

Pre-Departure Information

You’ll have to get a fairly early start this morning to make the most of your day trip to Maria Island . The town of Triabunna is where the ferry service departs and is 1.5hrs drive from Port Arthur. You ideally want to aim for one of the early departures as there is plenty to do on the island.

The ferry service is operated by Encounter Maria Island and costs $47 return at the time of writing. The schedule changes based on the time of year so make sure to check the link provided. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, which can also be done through this link.

You will also need to buy a national parks pass if you don’t have one already. This can be booked at the same time as your ferry ticket. This will cover you for all national parks on the trip including Cradle Mountain. The $80 holiday pass is the best value and will cover up to 8 people.

Painted Cliffs, Maria Island

A brilliant alternative to the ferry and bike plan is the award winning tour below. Perfect for those who aren’t able to cycle or just plain dislike it!

Maria Island Cruise and Guided Walk Day Tour with Lunch and Drinks – The boat visits beautiful coves and small beaches that very few people get to see. Spot all sorts of wildlife such as seals and wombats as well as the famous painted cliffs. You will also get some time on the island to explore the convict station and lunch/drinks can be enjoyed on-board. Find tour prices and availability here.

Things to do on Maria Island

Taking a day trip to Maria Island was an absolute highlight of our Tasmania road trip. While including this stop does make your time in Port Arthur a little rushed, it is well worth the extra effort.

The island is blissfully free of vehicles aside from those used by the rangers. The best way to get around is to hire a bike when booking your ferry. This will set you back $33 per person but will allow you to explore further afield. It is possible to walk to the painted cliffs if this is your only goal.

The best place to start your day is at the great little info centre and museum near where the ferry docks. This will give you a good idea of where you are in relation to all the attractions.

Free roaming wombats on Maria Island

Following the coastal road will take you to the main highlights of the island. First stop are the beautiful sandstone “Painted Cliffs”, which have eroded away in an amazingly artistic manner. Access is tide dependent so if you can’t reach them when you first arrive then come back later.

The equal biggest highlight here are the incredibly cute wombats that thrive on the island. We rode all the way to French’s Farm as this was a great place to see them however it turned out not to be necessary!

Being nocturnal, there aren’t many wombats around during the day. Never fear because the last hour or so before the return ferry they start coming out of the woodwork. There were many to be seen beside the road from the Painted Cliffs to the jetty.

If you hire a bike we also highly recommend checking out Four Mile Beach. This is a really nice white sand beach and the perfect place to cool off after a long cycle.

Four Mile Beach, Maria Island

Where to Stay in Triabunna

After a whole day cycling/walking around Maria Island, you’re not going to want to drive far! Luckily there are some great accommodation options in Triabunna.

Hotel/Guesthouse: Triabunna Barracks – This beautiful accommodation is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. The historic buildings have been perfectly renovated and are an attraction in themselves. It is walking distance from the ferry.

Caravan/Camping: Spring Bay Hotel – The pub in town has a large grassy area where you can stay for free (no tents). All they ask is that you enjoy a drink or meal at the pub, who can say no to that?

Day 3 – Freycinet National Park (Wineglass Bay)

Leaving Triabunna in the morning, it’s only a little over an hour to reach Coles Bay. Along the way however is the fantastic Devils Corner Cellar Door . They open at 10am so you may have to time your arrival accordingly. Even if you don’t fancy a glass they have a viewing tower with a great panorama over the vineyards.

The spectacular Freycinet National Park covers an entire peninsula extending out from the middle of the east coast. It is accessed via the small town of Coles Bay where you can find shops and several accommodation options.

The highlight here is of course the picture perfect Wineglass Bay. The gentle curve of white sand and turquoise water is made even more spectacular by the backdrop of mountains and forest.

The Freycinet visitor centre is located just on the outskirts of Coles Bay at the entrance to the national park. This is the access point to reach the carparks for the viewpoint hikes, camp grounds and other bays.

Spectacular view over Wineglass Bay from the Mt Amos summit

The most famous view of Wineglass Bay is actually found on the Mt Amos hike rather than the official viewpoint hike. This is quite a serious hike, with very challenging terrain including some almost vertical climbs up rocks. The views on the hike and especially from the top are well worth the effort. The hike will take around 3 hours return but this doesn’t include a solid hour or so of taking in the view!

The Wineglass Bay lookout hike still offers a fantastic view of the bay. It is about 2.6km return and will take around 1.5 hours. It is still a moderate hike but should be do-able by almost all levels of hiker.

On the way back to town you can make a quick stop to check out Honeymoon Bay. This pretty little cove is especially nice at sunset as it faces roughly west. You might also be lucky enough to spot some cute little rock wallabies.

Check out more popular options for seeing Wineglass Bay:

Freycinet National Park Scenic Flight – For those who don’t like hiking but still want that amazing top down view of the bay, consider a 30 minute scenic flight . This will give you the best view of all and will be a truly memorable part of your trip. Find tour prices and availability here.

Wineglass Bay Cruise with Lunch – To get a unique perspective on this bay, you might consider seeing it from the water. This cruise with lunch will take you from Coles Bay around the beautiful coastal scenery of Freycinet Peninsula. You’ll enjoy lunch with amazing views of Wineglass Bay from up close. Find tour prices and availability here.

Hiking Mt Amos is a challenge but the views make it worthwhile!

Where to Stay in Freycinet National Park

There are a couple of accommodation options actually within the national park as well as a great campground on Richardsons Beach. Coles Bay also has several options and is an easy base from which to explore the park.

Hotel/Guesthouse:  BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet – This park offers cabins as well as the traditional sites. It’s right in town and has a bar and restaurant attached.

Freycinet Lodge – This is a bit of a splurge but the location and sunset views are just superb. The classy restaurant and lounge bar are the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the national park.

Caravan/Camping: BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet – Traditional caravan park offering sites for a reasonable price. It is on quite a hill so the sites are fairly small so keep this in mind if you have a big rig.

Freycinet National Park Campground – Camp right on the beach within the national park. This is a fantastic campsite offering powered and unpowered sites for vehicles and tents.

Day 4 – Bay of Fires

It’s only about a 2 hour drive to reach the furthest point of the Bay of Fires today. There is a great nature park along the route this morning where you can get up close with Tasmanian Devils and watch a feeding.

East Coast Natureworld is going to be your most convenient option to see Tasmanian Devils on this itinerary. They have feedings at specific times so check the website for details and try to fit it in. Seeing these completely unique creatures is a must-do on your 10 day Tasmania itinerary.

Watch the Tasmanian Devil feeding at East Coast Nature World

The evocatively named Bay of Fires takes it’s inspiration from the many rocks covered in orange lichens. This gives a fantastic fiery appearance, especially when juxtaposed against the cool aqua hues of the surrounding waters.

This area is not actually one particular bay but rather a whole string of them along this stretch of coast. The furthest point along the road, ending at a dead end/carpark is called ‘The Gardens’. This seemed to be the most popular spot to see the iconic orange rocks however we much preferred Suicide Beach.

The unfortunately named Suicide Beach is only 2 minutes back down the road but is an incredibly beautiful spot. This is where we spent the day as there is a nice white sand beach as well as rock pools amongst the orange rocks. A good tip is to walk the full length of the beach where you will find a little hidden bay that offers amazing photo ops!

The drone possibilities are endless at the Bay of Fires!

The road back to the main town of Binalong Bay is a really nice drive. A stretch of it hugs the beautiful long expanse of Taylors Beach and you will pass several great campsites. These sites are really popular so make sure to book ahead if you are planning on camping.

Binalong Bay itself is a lovely town and the beaches are perfectly fine to spend a day on. If you are staying here this might be the most convenient place to hang out. Skeleton Bay Reserve in the far corner of town offers great views of the orange rocks from several small bays and lookouts.

Make sure to pop in for a bite at Meresta Eatery. This restaurant offers unbeatable ocean views and the food is delicious. If you want to have a sunset meal here then make sure to book ahead as it is super popular.

Pastel skies over the Bay of Fires

Where to Stay in the Bay of Fires

Most of the accommodation options here are holiday homes and therefore easily book out. Click here to browse all accommodation in Binalong Bay .

Hotel/Guesthouse: Bay of Fires Bush Retreat – This beautiful rustic styled accommodation offers glamping as well as other options. It is just outside town but in beautiful forest surrounds.

Caravan/Camping: There are a number of great free campsites on the stretch of coast between town and Taylors Beach. Check the website for the types of stay allowed at each and the available facilities. These can’t be booked so it’s first in best dressed.

Day 5 – Launceston

There are a couple of options when travelling from Binalong Bay to Launceston. The fastest route will be 175km and about 2 hours driving time. If you are really excited to see the sights in Launceston then this will give you the maximum time there.

The second option is the scenic route and that is what is covered on this 10 day Tasmania itinerary. This will be around 250km and about 3.5hrs driving time. This isn’t a huge amount of difference for the amazing sights you’ll get to see along the way.

If you take all of the optional detours then this will be quite a big day. Make sure to get plenty of rest the night before so you can get a nice early start.

Don’t miss the chance to see a platypus up close!

Optional Stops/Detours:

Pub in the Paddock / St Columba Falls / Pyengana Dairy Company –  St Columba Falls is about 50km from Binalong Bay and is a great first stop to kick off this full day of sightseeing. There is a moderate walk to the base of the falls but it isn’t too strenuous.

On the way back to the main road you’ll pass by the Pub in the Paddock. If it’s not too early for you then pop in for a quick drink, it’s certainly one of the most scenic beer gardens I’ve ever been in!

Located just past this is the Pyengana Dairy Company. Their farm door offers delicious fresh produce and the cheeses are not to be missed. Tasmanian dairy products are the best I’ve ever tried and I’m convinced it’s due to the large, lush fields that the cows get to enjoy!

Bridestowe Lavender Estate –  Jump back in the car for a solid 116km stretch to Bridestowe Lavender Estate. This is a favourite stop for photographers and those who love a good Instagram shot. Keep in mind that the lavender is only in bloom from December to early February. Even if it isn’t blooming, there is a shop offering many lavender products and a café.

Jansz and Pipers Brook Wineries –  There are many beautiful vineyards along the Tamar River Valley that runs from the Bass Straight to Launceston. These two wineries are some of the most famous and delicious in Tasmania. They are located right near each other and are only about 25mins from Bridestowe.

Platypus House –  This next stop is a little inconvenient, adding around 45mins extra driving time. However , if you want to see a platypus up close then this is definitely the best spot to do it in all of Tasmania.

They have several large tanks with a number of platypus and you will get to see them feed and learn all about their lives and behaviour. An added bonus is the echidna room, where you can sit down and have several of the animals walking between you and getting up close.

Exploring Cataract Gorge in Launceston

Arriving in Launceston:

If you’ve managed to tick off all the amazing detours then you might be pretty knackered at this stage! Don’t stress as you’ll have some time tomorrow morning to take a look around Launceston. If you have kids then have a look at Penny Royal Adventures for the evening. This super cool theme park has some great activities for them and a really nice restaurant and bar area for you.

Day 6 – Launceston to Stanley

In the morning you should plan to see a couple of the sights that most interest you around Launceston. Our recommendation is to head to the Cataract Gorge Reserve and Alexandra Suspension Bridge. Spend a bit of time walking around the beautiful grounds and down the gorge trail.

Another great spot to visit in the city is the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania . They have a fantastic collection of cars from many different eras and the place is really well presented. It’s cool to see the history and development of automobiles whilst enjoying a Tasmania road trip in one!

If cars aren’t your thing then you might prefer one of the other attractions in Launceston:

• Queen Victoria Museum Inveresk
• Launceston Tramway Museum
• Queen Victoria Art Gallery
• James Boags Brewery

The Nut seen from the Highfield Lookout

From Launceston you’ll be driving to the small coastal town of Stanley , far in the north-west of the state. There are a couple of great detours along the way; the town of Sheffield and the picturesque Boat Harbour Beach.

The first stretch to Sheffield will take around one hour, so it will be the perfect place to grab some morning tea. This town is known for it’s fantastic murals and artworks on the walls of the buildings. Spend a short time wandering around and checking them out before hitting the road again.

The next stop is the surprise of the trip at Boat Harbour Beach. It’s another 1hr 20min of driving and if you time your day right you can enjoy a fantastic fish and chip lunch. You might not associate a Tasmania road trip with beaches, but this one could easily compete for one of the best in Australia.

If you’re lucky enough to get some sunshine then make sure to head up the hill near the public toilets. There are a couple of unofficial lookout points that provide amazing views of the bay and town.

The next stretch to Stanley is only 40 minutes but you’ll want to push straight through town to the Highfield Historic Site and Highfield Lookout. The house is a colonial era building, built by convicts and now housing a small museum on the history of the area. The lookout point provides the best view of ‘The Nut’, which is the unmissable volcanic formation that is the icon of Stanley.

Taking the chairlift up ‘The Nut’ is a great experience

Stanley is a really nice little town with a main street of well presented heritage buildings. The main attraction is taking the cable car up to the top of ‘The Nut’. There is also a steep walking trail if you want to stretch your legs after the drive. This is a great place to spend a night as you will be able to enjoy the beautiful Stanley Hotel or the fantastic little Stanley Wine Bar across the road.

Note on tomorrow’s activities: The Cradle Mountain Summit Hike is a long and difficult trail that requires a full day. There are many other trails to choose from but if you are intent on the summit then you will have to skip Stanley. Staying at or near Cradle Mountain tonight will allow you to enter the park as soon as it opens and give you enough time to reach the summit and also enjoy the lakeside trail.

Where to Stay in Stanley

Hotel/Guesthouse: Touchwood Cottages – To make the most of your time in Stanley you should stay right in town. These delightful cottages are on the main street and a very short walk from the pub! They also have a small gallery and a café that does great coffee.

Caravan/Camping: Stanley Cabins and Tourist Park – This is a highly rated and well priced caravan park. If you are fully self-contained there are also cheap unpowered sites at the recreation park.

Starting the Itinerary From Devonport/Ferry

If you are coming across on the ferry and following this itinerary then you will pick up the trip here. You will need to modify the plan slightly as you will not be spending the morning in Launceston. Launceston will end up as your final stop before heading back to Devonport and catching the ferry.

Head for Boat Harbour Beach and pick up the itinerary from there. You will have plenty of time to see Stanley and might choose to push on to Cradle Mountain for the night. This will mean you can get a bright and early start and make the summit if you wish.

The stunning Boat Harbour Beach

Day 7 – Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park

On day 7 of your Tasmania itinerary, start the day with an early wake up and begin the 2.5-hour drive from Stanley to Cradle Mountain. There is so much to see and do in Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park, it’s best to arrive early so you can make the most of your day.

With spectacular natural scenery and plenty of opportunities for up-close wildlife encounters, Cradle Mountain is sure to be the highlight of your Tasmania road trip. It is, after all, the most well-known natural landmark in the entire state!

The best way to spend your day in Cradle Mountain is to choose from one of the many scenic walking trails in the national park. Whether you’re seeking an easy stroll or a challenging summit hike, there are trails to suit all abilities and preferences.

See below for some of the most popular Cradle Mountain walks and be sure to read our Cradle Mountain hiking guide for more detailed information.

Getting Around Cradle Mountain 

Once you receive your Tasmania Parks Pass, you will be able to get a free shuttle bus around the national park. When you arrive at the Visitor Centre, show your parks pass and you will be given a free voucher to ride the shuttle bus.

Car numbers are limited in the national park so you must leave your vehicle at the Visitor Centre on arrival. The shuttle bus departs from there every 10 – 15 minutes and takes you to the start of your chosen hike.

It runs every day from 8:30am – 4:30pm, don’t miss the last bus which departs Dove Lake at 5:30pm!

Lovely views of Cradle Mountain from the Dove Lake Circuit

Best Cradle Mountain Walking and Hiking Trails

Enchanted Walk – An easy stroll along this 1.1km path provides a great intro to Cradle Mountain. The walk only takes 20 minutes and passes through some stunning landscapes.

Enjoy the scenery as you follow the trail through a moss covered rainforest, alongside a pretty creek. It’s one of the shorter walks in the National Park but definitely shouldn’t be missed!

Dove Lake Circuit – If you’re seeking a longer walk with epic views of Cradle Mountain as the backdrop, don’t miss the Dove Lake Circuit. This is the most popular walking trail in the National Park and perfect for day trippers.

The trail loops around Dove Lake for 6.4km and can be completed in 3 hours. This is classified as an easy hike with plenty of boardwalks and flat terrain making it suitable for everyone. The views are pretty hard to beat on this hike!

Cradle Valley Boardwalk – Another great option if you’re wanting a relaxing walk surrounded by beautiful views and a variety of landscapes. The trail begins at the Interpretation Centre and follows a 5.5km boardwalk that takes you to Dove Lake.

This easy walk is suitable for all fitness levels and the ideal option for families. It takes around 3 hours to complete and shows you the very best of the National Park.

Marion’s Lookout, Cradle Mountain

Marion’s Lookout – Beginning at Dove Lake, this scenic hike offers spectacular views over the lake and Cradle Mountain. It is slightly more challenging than the trails mentioned above, which means a moderate level of fitness is required. The scenery is worth the challenge as it offers one of the best views in the entire park!

Marion’s Lookout is a 3 hour return trail that begins at Dove Lake and gradually leads you upward passed Lake Lilla, Wombat Pool and Crater Lake. This is the longer but easier way to get there, following a gentle incline.

You could also choose to take a very steep trail that extends from the Dove Lake Circuit which brings you directly to the lookout. This trail is more challenging but provides a quicker and more direct route.

Cradle Mountain Summit Hike – If you are an experienced hiker looking for an adventure filled day, the Cradle Mountain Summit hike is not to be missed! The trail starts off easy and slowly becomes more challenging as you get closer to the summit.

The final section of the hike requires scrambling over large boulders with plenty of steep cliff drops to avoid. If you have a fear of heights, you may want to pick a different hike! Once you reach the top however, the incredible views will reward your efforts.

The summit hike is a 13km return track that will take up most of your day so it’s best to start early in the morning. It should only be attempted if the weather allows for it. Climbing over slippery rocks is a recipe for disaster!

The views from Cradle Mountain summit do not disappoint!

Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park

Hotel/Guesthouse:  Cradle Mountain Highlanders – Is there anywhere better to stay in the mountains than a wooden cabin replete with wood-fire and hot tub? No, the answer is no.

Caravan/Camping: Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain – A popular holiday park conveniently located right near the Visitor Centre.

Cradle Mountain Fishery and Camping – A fantastic but basic camping ground in the large backyard of the host. Suitable for tents, campervans and small caravans/RVs. About 15mins drive from the visitor centre.

Day 8 – Queenstown and Strahan

These two towns are very popular stops for two main reasons. First and foremost is the awesome West Coast Wilderness Railway . Each town hosts a station and you can either travel between the two or take shorter return journeys from either one. The second reason are the wilderness boat cruises departing from Strahan. These cruise down the beautiful Gordon River and take in some of the pristine south-west wilderness.

These are both fairly expensive activities and it might be a little rushed to fit into one day. If you are really keen on both then you can take the earliest train and you should have enough time to make the evening cruise. Alternatively you could cruise tomorrow morning, however you will likely have to skip tomorrow’s stops.

One of the many stunning vistas along the railway journey (Credit: @westcoastwildernessrailway )

The West Coast Wilderness Railway (Queenstown):

This fantastic glimpse into history begins at the beautiful Queenstown station. Here you’ll find a small museum detailing the history of the railroad and a café that does a mean eggs benedict. The rolling stock used for your trip are actually the original steam trains imported for the railway!

Booking a morning trip from Queenstown is recommended as this stretch of railway is the most rewarding. Seeing the museum before the ride also provides some great insights. You can then spend a relaxed afternoon travelling to and exploring Strahan .

*You can view the advance timetable for the railway through this link.

This pretty seaside town is a really nice and relaxed spot to spend an evening. This will give you a chance to see ‘The Ship That Never Was’ . This is a play that is performed daily at 5:30pm and claims the title of Australia’s longest running play.

Strahan is a perfect jumping off point for exploring the wilderness of Tasmania’s south-west. There are two cruise companies here that will take you on a tour down the stunning Gordon River. As mentioned above you may have to pack in a lot today or modify the itinerary tomorrow if you also want to cruise.

World Heritage Cruise on Gordon River with Lunch –  This relaxed and luxurious cruise is a 6 hour experience that will take you from Strahan and into the wilderness. Enjoy a lunch of Tasmanian produce and stops to visit Sarah Island (which ties in well with the play) and to walk in the rainforest.

Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise –  This is also a 6 hour experience taking in much the same sights as above. You will get a buffet dinner with the added bonus of (hopefully) a beautiful sunset. The check in time is 2:30pm for a 3pm departure, so you may be able to squeeze it in after the railway.

The pretty town of Strahan

Where to Stay in Strahan

Hotel/Guesthouse: Castaway Holiday Apartments – This property is right near the centre of town and walking distance to all the attractions. The best part is the kitchen so you can save money cooking your own meals (Strahan has limited restaurant options and they can book out).

Caravan/Camping:  Strahan Beach Tourist Park – This park is a little dated but in a great location.

Day 9 – Hobart via Mt Field National Park

There is quite a bit of driving to be done today (360km) but it is down some of Tasmania’s most spectacular roads. You will be following the Lyell Hwy for much of the route and there are plenty of great stops to break up the day.

As you leave Queenstown you will rapidly gain elevation via a series of steep corners called the “99 Bends Road”. There are a few places to pull over and admire the view; one of the best is at the ‘Queenstown Steel Road Sign’ (you can enter this into Google Maps).

One spot you shouldn’t miss is the Horsetail Falls walking trail. The falls were quite far away and only flow well in the wetter seasons however the walking trail itself was fantastic. This boardwalk hugs the steep edge of the mountain and offers panoramic views over the surrounding country.

Another popular stop just outside Queenstown is the ‘Iron Blow Lookout’. This looks over an old mine that is now filled with water as well the strangely hued and sparse landscape. There are interpretive signs that detail the history of the area and the mining operations that caused this environmental damage.

Driving the epic 99 Bends Road near Queenstown

The next stop along this amazing road is Nelson Falls. To get here you will cross Lake Burbury via a couple of really scenic bridges. Make sure to stop after crossing the lake and admire the beautiful view. Nelson Falls is a really nice waterfall surrounded by picturesque forest. The moss covered rock-wall behind the falls creates a beautiful photography opportunity.

Once jumping back on the highway you’ll next be passing by the access road to Lake St Clair. This is a popular spot in Tasmania but if you aren’t hiking then there isn’t much to see around the visitor centre. If you really want to see the lake then you can make a stop here, there is a café where you can grab a coffee.

Back on the main road, only a short distance away, is an art installation called ‘The Wall’ . There is an entry fee however we thought it was well worth it for this completely unique and beautiful artwork. The Wall is a 100m long wooden panel with scenes from Tasmania carved in high relief. This was a phenomenal undertaking by the sculptor and took over 15 years to complete.

Russell Falls, Mount Field National Park

Driving onwards through a nice mixture of farmland and forest, you will reach Mt Field National Park. It’s a little over an hour more driving to reach Hobart from here, so time your visit accordingly. There is a parking lot at the visitor centre and from here you can access the short walking trails to Horseshoe Falls and Russell Falls. These beautiful waterfalls are well worth the visit.

If you have time you can also complete the ‘Tall Trees’ walk. This has its only parking lot and is only a short trail so you should be able to fit it in. If you are caravanning/camping then you have the option to stay in the national park overnight, continuing to Hobart in the morning. This campground has powered and unpowered sites and even boasts hot showers. It was probably the best we stayed in on our Tasmania road trip

There’s only one last stretch of driving to power through and then you can relax and have a well earned drink! Check-in to your Hobart accommodation and make a plan for tomorrow’s sightseeing around the city. There are a bunch of great places to grab dinner along Hunter St on Victoria Dock. My personal favourite spot however was the Hope and Anchor Tavern ; this is Australia’s oldest pub and has fantastic décor/memorabilia.

Where to Stay in Hobart

Hotel/Guesthouse: Customs House Hotel – Housed in a beautiful building dating from 1846, this hotel features classy rooms and a superb free breakfast. Located in the ideal spot, right near the bustling waterfront and many of the top tourist spots.

Caravan/Camping: Hobart unfortunately has no caravan parks right in the city. We recommend Barilla Holiday Park which is only a short drive outside the city. There is also a cheap scouts camp   on the other side of the city.

Day 10 – Hobart

On the final day of your epic 10 day Tasmania itinerary, enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Tasmania’s capital city. The most southern city in Australia may be small but it certainly isn’t lacking in activities.

With plenty of great things to do in Hobart, you could easily spend longer than a day here exploring the city and its surrounds. I’ve included some of the must-see highlights below along with some optional extras to include if your schedule allows for it.

If you have more time to spend, take a look at these day trips from Hobart to get inspired to explore outside of the city.

Exploring the unique and quirky MONA in Hobart

Historic City Tour including MONA Ticket

Familiarize yourself with Hobart by taking a guided tour of the city and learning the history from a local guide. This fun city tour will take you to Hobart’s main attractions on a “coach tram” stopping at the Cascade Brewery, Cascade Gardens, Female Factory and many more highlights.

The tour also includes a ferry ride and tickets to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), which is a must-see! If you’re pressed for time, this is an excellent way to tick off the main sights of Hobart in a single day. Find more info about tour prices and availability here .

Salamanca Market 

If you happen to be visiting Hobart on a Saturday, don’t miss out on taking a stroll around the famous Salamanca Market . Operating for more than 50 years, this popular market features over 230 stalls ranging from fresh produce to handmade products. You’ll find a little bit of everything here!

The Salamanca Market is open every Saturday from 8:30am – 3:00pm.

Cascade Brewery

Having lunch at the Cascade Brewery is an experience you simply can’t miss in Hobart. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Wellington is Australia’s oldest operating brewery. The Cascade Brewery has been producing some of Tasmania’s finest beers since it’s opening date in 1824.

Taking a brewery tour is a great way to learn more about this historic brewery and gain some insight into the brewing process. If this interests you I would recommend booking ahead , as the tours tend to fill up quickly. Alternatively, you can enjoy a tasting paddle and some lunch in the beautiful gardens on their property.

When we had lunch at the Cascade Brewery, it was very busy so it is a good idea to reserve your table online in advance to avoid disappointment!

Opening Hours: Sun – Tues: 11am – 5:30pm, Wed – Sat: 11am – 8:30pm

Stopping for lunch at the Cascade Brewery

Mount Wellington 

If you’re seeking the best view over Hobart and surrounding landscapes, make your way up to Mount Wellington. To get there, it’s a steep 30 minute drive west of the CBD. You can also catch the Mount Wellington Explorer Bus which runs between the city and the summit.

Mount Wellington is located at 1271 metres above sea level and offers an unbeatable view over the city from various lookouts. There are plenty of outdoor activities here such as walking trails, mountain biking tracks, 4WD excursions and even horse riding opportunities. Plan your visit and discover all the things to do on Mount Wellington using the official website.

Depending on the time of year, you will need to check the weather conditions before driving up to the summit. During winter (and sometimes even summer) Pinnacle Road closures occur due to snowy/icy conditions, be sure to check the road status in advance.

Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery

On your explorations around the city, pop into the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery to browse their unique collections of artwork and historic artefacts. Located in a beautiful heritage building on Hobart’s waterfront, this is Australia’s second oldest museum, dating back to 1843!

Find more info about upcoming exhibits and plan your visit to the museum here .

Opening Hours: 10am – 4pm

Tickets: Free

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens 

A 20 minute walk from Hobart’s CBD will bring you to the impressive Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Set on the edge of the Derwent River, this beautiful set of gardens have been welcoming visitors for more than 200 years!

Featuring perfectly manicured gardens and rare plants from all over the world, this is an ideal place to come for a peaceful stroll surrounded by nature. The Japanese Garden was our personal favourite and offers some great photo opportunities.

It’s easy to lose track of time and spend a few hours exploring the many sections of the park. While you’re there, stop in at the Visitor Centre which is home to a lovely restaurant/café, shop and a gallery featuring exhibits by local artists.

Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 5:30 pm

Taking in the serene atmosphere of the Botanical Gardens

Cascades Female Factory

Dive into Hobart’s convict history by visiting the Female Factory which is located near the Cascade Brewery. This building was originally used to house female convicts in the early 1800’s. Take a tour of this World Heritage Listed site to hear the fascinating stories about 19th century convict life.

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Tickets: Visit the official site for prices and bookings

Day Trip to Bruny Island

If you have some extra time to spare in Hobart, consider taking a day trip to Bruny Island. Known for its rugged landscapes, fascinating history and delicious food, exploring Bruny Island will make for an exciting day of adventures.

This popular tour picks you up from your Hobart accommodation in the morning and departs for the Bruny Island ferry. An experienced local guide will take you to all of the island’s highlights and scenic lookouts. You’ll get to spot some native wildlife and taste the island’s famous cuisine such as locally caught fish, fresh cheeses and oysters.

The tour includes hotel pick up and drop off, return ferry fare, morning tea, lunch, food tastings and historic lighthouse tour.  Find more info about tour prices and availability here.

More Tasmania Travel Guides

• Day Trip to Maria Island – The Perfect One Day Itinerary
• The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Cradle Mountain
• 15 Incredible Natural Landmarks of Tasmania
• 9 Best Things to do in Richmond
• 11 Awesome Day Trips from Hobart
• 10 Best Things to do in Stanley
• 9 Epic Things to do in Strahan

Enjoy This 10 Day Tasmania Itinerary? Pin It For Later!

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Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

Travel has changed my life for the better and I want to show you how it can do the same for you!

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14-Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Your 'ultimate' self-drive holiday and tasmania road trip.

This self-drive 14-day Tasmania itinerary is what I like to call your ‘Ultimate’ Tasmania road trip.

No rush. No pressure. Just 14 days of pure driving pleasure as you experience the best natural wonders, gastronomic delights and historic sites Tasmania has to offer!

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

Self-drive Tasmania Itinerary (14 days)

Want to experience the very best Tasmania trip? 

14 days is the perfect amount of time, and a Tasmania road trip is the ultimate way to explore this amazing island.

But what should you see? Where to stay? And do you know the best places to eat?

To make things easy and stress-free I’ve used my extensive local knowledge to create this 14-day self-drive Tasmania itinerary.

Together with my wife I have called Tasmania home for more than 15 years now, so you can rest assured that all my recommendations come from personal experience and my passion to get out on the open road.

Day 1 – Hobart to Derwent Bridge

Day 2 – Derwent Bridge to Strahan

Day 3 – Strahan

Day 4 – Strahan to Cradle Mountain

Day 5 – Cradle Mountain

Day 6 – Cradle Mountain to Stanley

Day 7 – Stanley to Launceston (via Devonport and Sheffield)

Day 8 – Launceston to Bay of Fires (via Tamar Valley)

Day 9 – Bay of Fires

Day 10 – Bay of FIres to Coles Bay (Freycinet)

Day 11 – Coles Bay Freycinet)

Day 12 – Coles Bay to Port Arthur

Day 13 – Port Arthur to Richmond

Day 14 – Richmond to Hobart

When it comes to the structure of this 14-day Tasmania itinerary, I understand that  everyone has different travel priorities , and that’s why I’ve provided multiple options on some days so you can choose the place or activity that suits you best.

For some travellers, family-friendly activities are essential. Or perhaps you want to focus on the outdoors over historic sites? Maybe you prefer to self-cater, rather than eat out. And of course many of us need to stretch our travel dollar as far as it can go, while others will want to experience the Lap of Tasmania in luxury.

It is so important to me that your Tasmania road trip is as special as possible, no matter what your style of travel – which is why I have tailored this Tasmania itinerary to be extremely flexible and adjustable.

You can follow this itinerary exactly, or adjust it to suit your own preferences . Clockwise or anti-clockwise doesn’t matter at all – it’s that easy!

If you have any questions at all, or need more advice, we would love to hear from you over in our Lap of Tasmania Facebook Group . It is a super-friendly community without any grumpy buggers or keyboard warriors to spoil your fun – come and say g’day 😊

I feel that 14 days is the ideal amount of time for a Tasmania driving holiday .

The distance covered per day in this itinerary varies from as little as 110km up to 250km at the most, and this means you can drive around at a leisurely pace while still making the most of your time in Tasmania.

To ensure you aren’t feeling too rushed I’ve also included 2-night stays in the 5 most popular locations.

That’s enough chat… let’s get this show on the road!

Day 1: Hobart to Derwent Bridge (via Mt Field)

📌  Derwent Valley

• New Norfolk – St Matthews church, Bush Inn and Drill Hall Emporium.
• Pulpit Rock lookout
• Mt Field – Russell Falls short walk, Waterfalls Cafe and Gallery (souvenirs!)
• Westerway – Westerway Raspberry Farm (Dec-Mar) – OR – Platypus spotting
• Hamilton – Kingdom Gallery at Glen Clyde House
• Tarraleah – Highland cows and Hydro history
• Budget –  Highland Cabins and Cottages   (Bronte Park – 20mins from Derwent Bridge)
• Mid-Range – Derwent Bridge Chalets and Studios (Derwent Bridge)
• Indulgence – Tarraleah Lodge (Tarraleah)
• Camping – Mt Field National Park – OR – Left of Field (Mt Field)

Read More : Best Places to Stay in the Derwent Valley

🗺️ Got a couple of extra days? Extend your road trip!

For me, the Derwent Valley is one of Tasmania’s most special places and you could easily spend 3 or 4 nights in the region.

If you have the time, I recommend basing yourself in New Norfolk at the stunning  Explorers Lodge B&B ( read my review here ) and using it as a base to drive up to Mt Field, and out to Maydena, Lake Pedder and Strathgordon.

One other region that flies waaaay under the radar is the Central Highlands of Tasmania. Reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands, you will love a couple of nights at the gorgeous  Ratho Farm  in Bothwell ( read my review here ) and doing day-trips into the surrounding region.

Day 2: Derwent Bridge to Strahan

• Wall in the Wilderness wood carving – OR – Lake St Clair walking trails
• Drive the ’99 Bends’
• Franklin River Nature Trail
• Nelson Falls Nature trail
• Queenstown – Iron Blow Lookout
• Option 1: RoamWild Tour   – OR – Mountain biking on Mt Owen
• Option 2: Explore Queenstown by foot (Paragon Theatre, Soggy Brolly shared art space, Missing Tiger book store, historic Empire Hotel)
• Drive to Strahan
• Budget – Strahan Village (Strahan)
• Bed and Breakfast – Harrison House B&B (Strahan)
• Luxe – Wheelhouse Apartments (Strahan)
• Camping – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat (Strahan)

🥂 Special Offer - Harrison House B&B

Book the ‘Bed, Breakfast & Boat’ package with Harrison House B&B, and when you mention the Lap of Tasmania you will also receive your choice of either:

V alid for direct bookings only.

Strahan is a small town with limited late night dining options – especially on a Sunday.

View 42 (all week), Hamers Bar & Bistro (all week), and Risby Cove  (Wed-Sun) are your three best options, but make sure you arrive before 8:30pm. Regatta Point Tavern is also a good option, however they are only open from 6-8pm for dinner (all week).

For other venues around town try to arrive before 6:30pm.

Day 3: Strahan

• Gordon River & Macquarie Harbour Cruise – Promo Code : LAPOFTAS for 10% OFF
• Ocean Beach
• Platypus spotting at Hogarth Falls (Strahan) – OR – Henty Dunes
• Strahan – The Ship That Never Was

🗺️ Want more time on the West Coast? Queenstown is fantastic!

Queenstown is one of the most fascinating towns you will find anywhere in Australia.

Stay an extra night or two on your way to/from Strahan and discover its emerging arts scene and stark landscapes with a couple of nights at historic Penghana B&B ( read my review ). 

Many road trippers tell me that the West Coast Wilderness Railway is at its best when you start from the Queenstown end as well! 

Day 4: Strahan to Cradle Mountain

• ‘River and Rainforest’ Wilderness Railway Tour
• Zeehan – Spray Tunnel (if time allows)
• Vale of Belvoir Lookout
• Cradle Mountain Village – Explore short walks around the interpretation centre
• Best of the Best – Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village  – Promo Code:  LAPOFTAS  for  10% OFF
• Camping – Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain  – Promo Code:  TASBINGO for  25% OFF
• Budget  – Cradle Mountain Highlanders  
• Luxe – Cradle Mountain Lodge

Read More: Cradle Mountain Accommodation – 6 Amazing Places to Stay

Day 5: Cradle Mountain

🍴 Breakfast – Your accommodation – OR – Cradle Mountain Hotel (non-guests are allowed)

• Option 1: Dove Lake loop walk
• Option 2: Cradle Canyons Tour (summer)
• Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery
• Waldheim Alpine Spa – Spa Treatment
• Peppers Lodge – Wine and cheese tasting
• ‘After Dark’ Tassie Devil feeding tour
• Best of the Best – Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village –  Promo Code:  LAPOFTAS for 10% OFF
• Camping – Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF

😍 Special Offer - Cradle Mountain Accommodation

Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Resort is my favourite accommodation at Cradle Mountain, and after reaching out to them I was so happy when Andy and the team became a Partner of the Lap of Tasmania, helping road trippers find the perfect place to stay and keeping your holiday costs as low as possible 😊

Use the LAPOFTAS code and SAVE 10% when you stay at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Resort !

Day 6: Cradle Mountain to Stanley

• Hellyer Gorge scenic drive
• Table Cape – Lighthouse
• Table Cape – Tulip Farm (Sep-Oct)
• Boat Harbour Beach
• Drive on to Stanley
• Highfield House – Self-guided tour
• The ‘Nut’ – Chairlift to the top of the ‘Nut
• The ‘Nut’ – Explore the walking trails on top
• Camping – BIG4 Stanley Holiday Park (Stanley)
• Budget –  Stanley Upstairs (Stanley)
• Bed and Breakfast – The Ark Stanley (Stanley)
• Indulgence – Horizon Deluxe Apartments (Stanley)

Special Offer - The Ark Stanley

Mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your relaxing stay at The Ark Stanley and receive:

• Late checkout to noon!

Check prices and availability

Day 7: Stanley to Launceston (via Devonport and Sheffield)

• Coastal drive
• Burnie – Tastings at Hellyers Distillery
• Turner’s Beach – The Berry Patch
• Penguin – The ‘Big Penguin’
• See Ulverstone and Devonport
• Latrobe – Anvers Chocolates
• Sheffield – Explore the murals
• Ashgrove Cheese / Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm / Van Diemens Land Creamery
• Hagley – Hazelbrae Hazelnuts   (enjoy a picnic in their beautiful orchard!)
• See the historic towns of Deloraine, Westbury and Hadspen on your way to Launceston.
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hadspen –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Budget – Leisure Inn Penny Royal Apartments   (Launceston)
• Mid-Range – Kurrajong House  (Launceston)
• Modern – Hotel Verge (Launceston)
• Indulgence – Peppers Silo (Launceston)

Read More : Best Places to Stay in Launceston

Day 8: Launceston to Bay of Fires (via Tamar Valley)

• Launceston – Cataract Gorge – OR – Tamar Wetlands Walk
• Tamar Valley Wineries (after 11am) – Moores Hill, Small Wonder
• Bridestowe Lavender Farm (allow an extra 40mins drive time)
• ‘Tin Dragon’ Trail – See the historic towns of Branxholm, Derby and Weldborough
• Pyengana – Pyengana Dairy Farm Gate Cafe, St Columba Falls, Pub in the Paddock
• Mountain bikers will want at least half a day to ride the world-class trails of ‘Blue Derby’
• Camping – Big4 St Helens Holiday Park (St Helens)
• Budget – Queechy Motel   (St Helens)
• Relaxing B&B – Beaumaris Beach Guest House  (Beaumaris Beach)
• Indulgence – Sea Eagle Cottage (Binalong Bay)

🎉 Special Offer - Beaumaris Beach Guest House

Use my LAPOFTAS code when booking your beach escape at Beaumaris Beach Guest House and receive 5% OFF all room rates !

Valid for direct bookings only , and not available in combination with other offers.

Day 9: Bay of Fires

• Bay of Fires Eco Tour (by boat)
• Lease 65 Oysters
• Option 1: Explore the Bay of Fires beaches, dunes and coves north of Binalong Bay
• Option 2: Visit Suncoast Gallery, The Shop in the Bush, and Priority Ridge Winery (Sep-May)
• Sunset over the rocks of Binalong Bay ( here )
• Budget – Queechy Motel   (St Helens)
• Relaxing B&B –  Beaumaris Beach Guest House (Beaumaris Beach)

Day 10: Bay of Fires to Coles Bay (Freycinet)

• Four Mile Creek – Tastings at Ironhouse Brewery
• Douglas Apsley National Park – Apsley River Waterhole
• Bicheno – The Bicheno blowhole
• Freycinet Marine Farm
• Friendly Beaches
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse
• Camping – Big4 Iluka on Freycinet (Coles Bay)
• Great Value B&B – Freycinet Waters B&B   (Swansea – 40mins from Coles Bay)
• Indulgence – Freycinet Lodge  (Coles Bay)
• Ultimate Luxury – Picnic Island (Coles Bay)

🌞 Special Offer - Freycinet Waters B&B

Mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your cosy seaside retreat at Freycinet Waters and receive:

Day 11: Coles Bay (Freycinet)

• Option 1: Wineglass Bay Cruise
• Option 2: Walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout and then either spend the rest of the morning looping back via Hazards Beach, or return the same way you went in and then explore Coles Bay until lunch
• Option 1: If you book the cruise then lunch is provided
• Option 2: Enjoy lunch at The Bay Restaurant at Freycinet Lodge
• Option 3: Enjoy a casual meal at Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar (Coles Bay)
• Option 1: Freycinet and Maria Island scenic flight
• Option 2: Visit Providore Wine Glass (Freycinet Lodge) and then enjoy a Tasmanian Tasting session – wine, whisky or gin – at the Lodge (Freycinet Lodge)

Day 12: Coles Bay to Port Arthur

• Apslawn Wineries – Devil’s Corner, Spring Vale and Milton vineyards
• Swansea – Spiky Bridge and Spiky Beach

🌊 Maria Island Cruises - 10% OFF

Located halfway between Freycinet and the Tasman Peninsula, Maria Island is my favourite place in Tasmania, and it is an absolute ‘must’ if you can squeeze it into your itinerary!

Let the wonderful crew at  Maria Island Cruises   take care of you as you enjoy one of their two cruise/walk combo tours departing from Triabunna.

Both tours provide the opportunity to spend time on the island exploring by foot, but you also get the choice of either a full circumnavigation of the island, or a cruise to the stunning Ile des Phoques.

Use my  LAPOFTAS  code and receive  10% OFF  your cruise!

Valid for direct bookings only.

• Pirate’s Bay Lookout
• Tessellated Pavement – OR – Officer’s Quarters Museum (Eaglehawk Neck)
• Tasman Arch
• Devil’s Kitchen
• Remarkable Cave
• Port Arthur Ghost Tour
• Camping – NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park   (Port Arthur)
• Budget – Port Arthur Villas (Port Arthur)
• Relaxing Bed and Breakfast – Storm Bay B&B (White Beach – 10mins from Port Arthur)
• Indulgence – Stewarts Bay Lodge (Port Arthur)

🌞 Special Offer - Storm Bay B&B

Use my LAPOFTAS code online, or mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your relaxing escape at  Storm Bay B&B on the beautiful Tasman Peninsula and receive:

• 10% OFF stays of 2-nights or longer

Valid for direct bookings only. Some blockout dates may apply. Not applicable to tours booked through Storm Bay B&B.

Day 13: Port Arthur to Richmond

• Port Arthur Historic Site
• Richmond Village – See St John’s Church, Richmond Bridge, historic Main Street, Richmond Gaol, and the Richmond Wine Wall
• Wicked Cheese
• Pooley Wines – OR – Coal River Farm
• Families – Tara’s Richmond Farmstay (Richmond)
• Budget – Every Man and His Dog Vineyard (Richmond)
• B&B –  Mulberry Cottage   (Richmond)
• Luxury and Romance – Prospect House Private Hotel (Richmond)

    Looking for a romantic getaway?

Save 15%  on the ‘Room + Breakfast’ rate at gorgeous Prospect House Private Hotel when you use my  LAPOFTAS promo code! – Check Prices Here

Day 14: Richmond to Hobart

• Mt Wellington Summit
• Salamanca Market (Saturday) – OR – Farm Gate Market (Sunday)
• Hobart Waterfront – Salamanca, Brooke Street Pier
• Visit Beauty and the Bees
• Lark Distillery
• Kelly’s Steps
• Walk to Battery Point and explore
• Alternative Option – Hobart’s Hop-on Hop-off Bus
• MONA Ferry and Museum – Splurge and get a ‘Posh Pit’ ticket ( my guide )
• Sunset drinks at The Glass House
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hobart –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Couples B&B (south side) – Waterview Gardens B&B (Margate)
• Couples B&B (east side) – Oceana B&B (Howrah)
• Budget (Families) – Bay Hotel Apartments   (Hobart)
• Budget (Historic) – Edinburgh Gallery (Hobart)
• Mid-Range – RACV Hobart Hotel  (Hobart)
• Indulgence – MACq 01 (Hobart)
• Ultimate Luxury – MONA Pavilions (Hobart)

Read More : Best Places to Stay in Hobart

🌞 Special Offer - Waterview Gardens B&B

Mention the  Lap of Tasmania  when booking your delightful Hobart getaway at  Waterview Gardens B&B  and receive:

• 10% OFF  your booking; and
• FREE bottle of bubbles 🍾 – OR –  cheese platter 🧀 upon arrival!

Plan your Tasmania road trip

I hope you have found my 14-day Tasmania road trip itinerary useful in planning your holiday!

To put it all together just takes 5 simple steps…

• Learn more about the Lap of Tasmania,  the best time to visit and places to see
• Plan your road trip itinerary (right here!)
• Book your flight or ferry to Tasmania
• Book your hire car or campervan
• Book your accommodation

Happy travels, Andrew.

ps. If this is your first time visiting Tasmania, or you are a bit nervous about planning your road trip, then you will love my eBook – “ How to Plan Your Tasmania Road Trip “. It  takes you through the whole process in easy-to-follow steps and also includes a free Holiday Planner that you can use for Tasmania and any other holiday you take in the future!

Travel planning resources

Tasmania’s remote location means there are internet ‘black spots’ across the island. 

A hard copy travel guide or map is the perfect backup, and I love the range from Lonely Planet.

Guide to Tasmania

Map of tasmania, road trip guide.

Andrew Strikis

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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Australia , Oceania , Road Trips , Tasmania , Travel Itineraries · July 29, 2019

The Perfect Tasmania East Coast Road Trip Itinerary for One Week

Are you planning a road trip in Tasmania and looking for some inspiration? You’ve come to the right place! We recently spent one week in Tasmania visiting all the highlights along the beautiful east coast. We think this Tasmania self-drive itinerary is the perfect way to spend 6 days in Tasmania!

Along with my two friends, Amy and Sarah from Mooski Adventures , we set off in a trusty Mitsubishi Triton thanks to Europcar – it was the perfect car for an adventurous Tasmania road trip!

Our one week Tasmania itinerary commenced with exploring the vibrant capital city, Hobart. It took us to Australian bucket list hotspots such as the Bay of Fires and Freycinet National Park, along the popular Tasmania east coast road trip route called the “ Great Eastern Drive “. We finished up our week in the picturesque city of Launceston and wine tasting at some of the fabulous wineries in the Tamar Valley .

With its rugged wilderness, breathtaking scenery, fresh seafood, and a plethora of fabulous food and wine producers – we think Tasmania’s east coast is one of the most stunning places in Australia .

this Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary from Hobart to Launceston will take you to some of the best highlights along Tasmania’s east Coast!

Planning a holiday in Australia right now? Here are 150 Australia Bucket List experiences to tick off!

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In This Post:

Planning a Road Trip in Tasmania – At a Glance

Our Tasmania road trip itinerary encompasses 6 days drive from Hobart to Launceston, with an option to add an extra day trip either at the beginning or end of the itinerary. We also included information on where to stay and eat in each location!

• Day 1: Explore Hobart (Salamanca Markets & MONA)
• Day 2: Hobart to Orford (Twamley Farm & Port Arthur)
• Day 3: Orford to Bicheno (Freycinet National Park & Wineglass Bay)
• Day 4: Bicheno to St. Helens (Bay of Fires)
• Day 5: St. Helens to Launceston (food producers & wineries)
• Day 6: Explore Launceston (Cataract Gorge & Tamar Valley)
• Optional Extra Day: Hobart or Launceston

Related Post: 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia to Add to Your Bucket List

Map of our Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary: The Great Eastern Drive

6 Day Tasmania Self-Drive Itinerary from Hobart to Launceston

Day 1: explore hobart.

With an eclectic art scene, Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is well-known as the host for the annual Dark Mofo Festival. Dark Mofo is held during the winter solstice when the city is painted red, and locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate the dark through modern art expressions, music and spectacular food.

Our Tasmania Road Trip was planned to coincide with Dark Mofo. We spent the first two evenings experiencing the events and performances on offer during this epic three-week-long fiesta – and it lived up to the hype! The Winter Feast and Dark Path were a highlight for us. Also worth checking out is the Night Mass, The Burning and the Nude Solstice Swim.

Things to Do in Hobart

Salamanca Markets  – It’s worth planning your visit to Hobart on a Saturday so you can wander around the iconic Salamanca Markets – one of the most loved markets in Australia. It features over 300 artisan stalls lined along Salamanca Place with amazing local street performers every Saturday from 8:30 am to 3 pm.

MONA (The Museum of Old and New Art)  – After the markets, wander down to the waterfront and hop on the MONA ROMA . The camouflaged high-speed catamaran will take you to the museum, and the ferry ride itself is quite a show – upgrade to the Posh Pit for an ultra-luxe experience!

Be sure to allow at least 3 hours to wander around MONA . We easily could have spent all day there. The museum is set over three underground levels, and there are quite a lot of world-class interactive exhibits, such as the Mine, Siloam, and Pharos. It’s worth checking out their website and planning your visit in advance.

Afterwards, head up to the MONA rooftop, where you’ll find the excellent Moorilla Wine Bar and Cellar Door, The Source Restaurant and a beautiful green space called The Lawn, which features communal tables, bean bags, and food trucks.

Mount Wellington  – If Mount Wellington has decided to peek its head out of the clouds, then it’s worth jumping in the car and heading up there for sunset. Unfortunately, we weren’t blessed with the best weather in the evening, so we decided to kick off our Tasmania road trip itinerary with a sunrise visit instead. Due to ice on the road, we weren’t able to make it to the top, so we stopped at a viewpoint a little further down where we enjoyed spectacular sunrise views out towards Bruny Island.

Where to Stay and Eat in Hobart

The Ibis Styles in Hobart was the perfect place to start our Tasmania road trip, as it was only a short five-minute walk from the waterfront and Salamanca Markets. The upper levels offer fantastic views over Hobart city, and the city-scape lap pool was definitely a highlight. The coffee and cocktails on offer at Mr Good Guy Bar + Kitchen were also top-notch. For other good food and coffee options nearby, we loved Daci & Daci Bakers and Straight Up Coffee and Food .

Day 2: Hobart to Orford

Driving time:  approximately 2 – 3 hours, not including stops.

Stop 1: Clay Target Shooting & Lunch at Twamley Farm

Make an early start on your Tasmania road trip and set your GPS towards Twamley Farm, Buckland. Pre-book a Sunday Lunch and Shoot package for a unique experience. You’ll spend the morning at the Clay Target Shooting Range with champion shooters Glenn and Cheryl, followed by an amazing campfire-cooked lunch, featuring delicious local produce, lovingly prepared by Gert and Ted.

Twamley Farm also offers beautiful BnB-style accommodation in a converted old Barn, glamping tents or the ‘Farm Pod’. Other activities on offer also include trout fishing, farm-hand experiences, bird watching, hiking and mountain biking.

Stop 2: Port Arthur Historic Site

Continue the drive onto Port Arthur, a historic convict settlement located on the Tasman Peninsula. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic site and surrounding gardens. If you feel up for a nighttime activity, it’s worth checking out the Port Arthur Ghost Tour , a highlight filled with tales of paranormal activity and unexplained events that occurred at the penal settlement in the late 1800s.

Stop 3: Orford Town

Continue up the east coast to Orford where you’ll spend the evening. Orford is a coastal village with beautiful beaches and views over the historic Maria Island.

Where to Stay and Eat in Orford

We stayed at the Eastcoaster Tasmania in Orford and were treated to a fabulous seafood dinner at their beautiful waterfront restaurant. The food alone was reason enough to stay an extra night!

Read Next: 4 Amazing Spots to go Glamping in Tasmania

Day 3: Orford to Bicheno

Driving time:  approximately 1.5 – 2 hours, not including stops.

While there are so many beautiful bays and beaches to stop along the Great Eastern Drive between Orford and Bicheno, the highlight is undoubtedly Freycinet National Park – the jewel of Tasmania’s coastline and home to the iconic Wineglass Bay. I highly recommend making this spot a priority on any Tasmania road trip itinerary as there is so much to do there.

Freycinet National Park

Before arriving, I recommend you pre-arrange a National Park permit to save time. Depending on how long you allow, there are a few options for hikes to do in the National Park – here are our top three:

Wineglass Bay Lookout  – For an amazing view over Wineglass Bay that’s not too far from the carpark, head to the Wineglass Bay Lookout. Being the shortest route, this hike is usually much more crowded with tourists. Allow 1-hour return.

Wineglass Bay Beach  – Continue from the Lookout toward the pristine beaches of Wineglass Bay for a half-day trek option. Allow 2.5 hours return.

Mount Amos  – For an even more stunning view over Wineglass Bay and the surrounding mountain ranges, Mount Amos is not for the faint-hearted and requires a lot more experience. The hike involves a steep uphill rock scramble, scaling several large boulders and is not recommended during wet or damp conditions. Allow at least 3 – 4 hours round trip.

Other Things to Do Around Freycinet National Park

If you have some extra time and want to extend your Tasmania road trip itinerary to 7 days, I would highly recommend spending an extra day exploring Freycinet National Park to experience some of the other activities on offer:

• Take a leisurely boat cruise around the National Park to Wineglass Bay
• Check out Cape Tourville Lighthouse
• Visit Devils Corner Winery cellar door
• Stay at one of the many luxury eco-retreats around Coles Bay
• Sample the freshest cultured oysters at the Melshell Oyster Shack

Where to Stay and Eat in Bicheno

We stayed at the beautiful Cod Rock Point , situated right on the coast at Bicheno. It was a beautiful spot, and we easily could have spent longer than one night but there was still so much to do on our Tasmania road trip itinerary, so we hit the road early the next morning.

Read Next: 9 Places to Book a Couples Getaway in Tasmania

Day 4: Bicheno to St. Helens & Bay of Fires

Driving time:  approximately 1 hour, not including stops.

After fueling up at the Blue Edge Bakery in Bicheno, we set off towards St. Helens and the Bay of Fires. The Bay of Fires was once named the World’s “hottest” travel destination in 2009 by Lonely Planet and it’s not hard to see why.

St. Helens is a charming coastal fishing village and is a popular place to stay while visiting the Bay of Fires. There are plenty of things to do around St. Helens including fishing, hiking, and mountain biking.

A little further north of St. Helens is Binalong Bay, the most popular spot to explore the region’s main drawcard – the lichen-covered rocks at the Bay of Fires.

Bay of Fires Boat Tour

After 4 days of taking in the spectacular views along the Great Eastern Drive from our car rental, we wanted to switch things up and opted for an off-shore view of the famous ‘red rocks’, courtesy of Bay of Fires Eco Tours . We did the most popular Gardens Explorer Tour, which took us along the pristine coastline. We learnt all about the history of the area, how the rocks get their dark orange colour and pointing out the diverse array of sea life along the way. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale.

Walk Along the Bay of Fires Cosy Corner Beach

After the boat tour, take a leisurely walk along Cosy Corner Beach. See the Lichen-covered boulders up-close against the beautiful white-sand beaches.

Sunset at Binalong Bay

We found Binalong Bay to be the best spot to view the sunset. The evening hues paint the iconic red boulders in spectacular colour.

Pro Tip:   Head to Skeleton Bay Reserve and wander out along the rocks to find a good vantage point.

Where to Stay and Eat in St. Helens

We stayed at the beautiful Bay of Fires Apartments located on the main street of St. Helens and conveniently located around the corner from an amazing little coffee shop called Lifebuoy Café and Quail Street Emporium. Also, check out Nina Restaurant, located below the Bay of Fires Apartments.

Day 5: St. Helens to Launceston

Driving time:  approximately 2.5 hours, not including stops.

The drive between St. Helens and Launceston is dotted with many farms, artisan food producers and wineries. This was one of our favourite days during our Tasmania road trip as there was plenty of good food and wine tasting involved!

Stop 1: Pyengana Dairy

Pyengana Dairy produces award-winning artisan cheeses and dairy products. Stop off for a gourmet cheese platter overlooking the green pastures of the dairy farm.

Stop 2: St Columba Falls

Just a short 10-minute walk from the carpark, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of St Columba Falls.

Stop 3: Clover Hill Wines

Clover Hill is a premium sparkling house located around 30 minutes drive from Launceston. Their recently built modern cellar door offers breathtaking views over their beautiful vineyard. This was a great last stop for a tasting before finishing up our Tasmania road trip in Launceston for the evening. Bookings are recommended.

Where to Stay and Eat in Launceston

We stayed at The Sebel Launceston , which was conveniently located in the centre of town and only a few minutes drive from Cataract Gorge. We enjoyed dinner at the Bluestone Kitchen & Bar , which serves seriously good modern Asian-style food. It was possibly one of the best meals we had during the entire road trip!

Read Next: The Ultimate World Travel Bucket List – 150+ Places to See Before You Die

Day 6: Explore Launceston

Spend the final day of your Tasmania road trip exploring Launceston, checking the beautiful scenery and fabulous wineries in the Tamar Valley . Be sure to book an evening flight so you have a full day!

Cataract Gorge  – A natural formation located only minutes from central Launceston. Allow at least an hour to wander along the pathways around the gorge.

Drive Along the River Tamar  – After visiting the gorge, take a drive along the western side of the Tamar River towards Batman Bridge. There are many great wineries to stop at along the drive. Cross the river at Batman Bridge and head back to Launceston along the Eastern-side of the river.

Moore’s Hill Estate  – Tasmania’s first solar-powered winery that is completely off-the-grid. We stopped in at this boutique family-owned winery for a wine tasting and gourmet lunch by the fire and felt great knowing that we were virtually saving the environment while doing so. Check out these other great wineries along the Tamar Valley wine route.

Related Post: The Best Tamar Valley Wineries & Vineyards near Launceston, Tasmania

Optional Extra Day – 7 Days in Tasmania

If you want to extend this itinerary to a 7 day Tasmania itinerary, then we highly recommend either adding an extra night in Hobart at the beginning, or in Launceston at the end of your trip. Here are some suggestions for how you could spend the extra day:

Hobart Day Trips:

• Explore the fabulous food producers at Bruny Island
• Visit the Huon Valley and experience the Tahune Airwalk and the Hastings Caves.
• Hike to Russell Falls at Mount Field National Park and explore the Derwent Valley.

Launceston Day Trips:

• Visit Bridestowe Lavender Estate and the Pipers River wineries
• Go hiking around Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake
• Seek out local food producers, berry farms and breweries around Deloraine and Devonport.
• Exploring the many great wineries and cellar doors in the Tamar Valley

Feeling Inspired? Here are 10 Bucket List Places to Visit around the world this year!

Additional Tips for Your Tasmania Road Trip

Getting There  – Qantas , Virgin Australia , and Jetstar all offer daily flights to Hobart and Launceston from most major Australian cities. I recommend using Skyscan n er to compare airfares and departure times for all airlines and book the best option.

Getting Around – Tasmania was made to be explored by car! Having a car gives you the freedom to set your Tasmania road trip itinerary (or follow ours) and stop wherever you want. All the roads we took during our road trip were sealed and driving in Tasmania is very easy. Click here to check out the latest car rental deal with Europcar .

Best Time to Visit  – Any time of year. There are many things to do in Tasmania during summer, winter, spring and autumn. Be aware that summertime is the peak tourist season. Expect the major tourist sites to be a lot more crowded than in other seasons. We felt that visiting during winter was perfect as there were fewer crowds and we got to experience the Dark Mofo Festival.

Don’t forget to bring – warm clothing in winter, such as puffer jackets and beanies. Bring hiking gear if you plan to hike in Freycinet National Park.

We hope this itinerary has inspired you to plan a road trip in Tasmania. If you have any questions or recommendations of other great places to visit in Tasmania, please leave them in the comments below.

Related Tasmania articles you might like:

• 9 Incredible Places for a Couples Getaway in Tasmania
• The Best Tamar Valley Wineries & Vineyards
• The Perfect 6 Day Tasmania East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• 4 Amazing Spots to go Glamping in Tasmania
• The Ultimate Australian Bucket List
• 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia (in every state)

Disclosure: During our Tasmania Road Trip, we were hosted by  Europcar ,  Discover Tasmania , and  Accor Hotels . All opinions expressed in this post are my own. For further information, please visit the links above.

Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:

• Skyscanner  for the best flight deals
• Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
• HomeAway  for the best price on apartment and home rentals
• Rentalcars.com  for quick and easy car rentals
• Luxury Escapes  | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
• Get Your Guide  | Klook | Viator  for booking day tours and attraction tickets
• Tourradar  for a wide selection of multi-day tours
• Safety Wing for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance

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About the Author:

Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.

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May 1, 2021 at 8:18 am

Considering Buckland is on the way to Orford, I would head to Port Arthur first. Get an early start so you can see Remarkable cave, Tasman Arch etc.

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Tasmania Drive Itinerary: 21 Days of Unspoilt Beauty

by Lisa Bull | Last updated Dec 14, 2023 | Road Trips Australia

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details.

If you’re looking to retreat back to nature, this 21-day Tasmania itinerary includes lush rainforest walks, mirror-like lakes, rushing waterfalls, pristine white beaches and an abundance of fresh air.

You can also learn about Tasmania’s convict past at Port Arthur and Sarah Island, as well as peruse art galleries and museums in beautiful Hobart.

A Tasmania self-drive is a fantastic way to enjoy this stunning island at your own pace. With winding country roads cutting through deep forests and skimming mountainsides, Tasmania a fun location to drive around too!

If you’re on a shorter timeframe, just pick your favourite destinations from this guide to create a Tasmania itinerary of 7 days, 10 days or 14 days!

Tasmania Drive Itinerary: Table of Contents

• Tasmania Car Hire
• Tasmania Road Trip FAQs
• Day 1: Devonport
• Day 2: Deloraine
• Day 3: Launceston
• Day 4: Mount William National Park
• Day 5: Bay of Fires
• Days 6-7: Freycinet National Park
• Day 8: Port Arthur
• Days 9-12: Hobart
• Day 13: Ross
• Days 14-16: Bruny Island
• Days 17-18: Lake St Clair-Cradle Mountain National Park
• Day 19: Queenstown
• Day 20: Strahan
• Day 21: Devonport

Hiring a Car in Tasmania

Make sure you find the best price for car hire in Tasmania by using Kayak as a starting point. They compare hundreds of car hire sites to save you hours of research.

>> Click here to compare car hire prices and book your rental car <<

Tasmania Road Trip FAQ

Before planning your Tasmania drive itinerary or holiday, read through the following information to learn about the cost, distance and transport for a Tasmania road trip.

The cost of the Spirit of Tasmania ferry ride varies depending on the time of year, whether you travel by day or overnight and if you wish to bring your vehicle over with you. We paid $595 return for our ferry ride to Tasmania, which was in the summertime for two people during the daytime with a car. There’s quite a lot to do on the ferry (it takes around 10 hours!). It’s huge with a restaurant, bar, lounges and even a cinema! There are also outdoor decks, so you can get some fresh air. Make sure you check the biosecurity rules for Tasmania before you go, as there are restrictions on bringing things like fruit and vegetables into the state due to the risk of diseases and pests. You’ll also need to hand it in your camping stove gas canister when you embark then collect it at the other end.

Tasmania Drive Itinerary: 21 Days

Here’s a more detailed overview of each area I visited, including campsites, what to see on the way and the incremental distance and driving times between stops to help you plan your journey.

To browse through accommodation in Tasmania, including hotels, hostels, apartments and holiday parks, use the search box below.

Day 1. Devonport

If you’re reaching Tasmania by ferry from Melbourne, you’ll disembark in the city of Devonport.

We only stayed one night here, but there’s a choice of lovely beaches and parks, a coastal walk and opportunities for fishing and kayaking along the Mersey River if you want to stay longer.

DEVONPORT ACCOMMODATION:

• Discovery Parks – Devonport : We camped at this holiday park on arrival in Tasmania. As you’d expect from the bigger holiday park chains, it has great facilities. You can choose from camping and caravan sites as well as cabins.
• Mersey Bluff Caravan Park : We also stayed at this holiday park the night before leaving Tasmania, as Discovery Parks was full. It’s in a very picturesque setting, but weirdly we weren’t allowed to charge electricals!
• Formby Hotel : This hotel is one of the cheapest options in Devonport and is conveniently located near the ferry terminal. Rooms have kitchenettes with fridges and kettles, and there’s also an on-site restaurant and bar.
• The Grand on Macfie B&B : This beautiful B&B inside a heritage mansion is only 800m from the ferry terminal and has amazing ratings. There’s a garden and barbecues, and rooms come with flat-screen TVs and kettles. You can even book a room with a sea view!

Day 2. Deloraine

We stayed one night in this small town at the foot of the Great Western Tiers mountain range to visit the beautiful, multi-level Liffey Falls . Unfortunately, they were closed due to bushfires.

It was still a quaint town to stop at, with cafes, bakeries and Georgian and Victorian buildings. You can also head down to the Great Lake , a natural freshwater lake and manmade reservoir.

Quamby Bluff , the rural area we camped in was gorgeous too. If you’re short on time though, I’d head straight to Launceston instead.

Devonport to Deloraine: 40 min (54km)

DELORAINE ACCOMMODATION:

• Quamby Corner : We camped at this cute caravan park just ten minutes from Deloraine. Set at the foot of Quamby Bluff, it’s a peaceful park with beautiful views. There are budget on-site caravans, powered and unpowered camping sites and twin-share huts with bunk beds.
• The Empire Hotel : One of the cheaper hotels in Deloraine , the boutique Empire Hotel has Tasmanian timber decor as well as free Wi-Fi, a bar, shared kitchen and log fire.
• The Chapel Deloraine : If you’re looking for self-contained accommodation, this 2-bedroom house in the Deloraine countryside has a garden and patio, equipped kitchen, washing machine and flat-screen TV.

Day 3. Launceston

Launceston, the second-most populated city in Tasmania , is one of Australia’s oldest cities, with well-preserved architecture. As well as museums and art galleries, beautiful Cataract Gorge is within walking distance of the city.

Here you can swim in the gorge or open-air pool, laze around in the gardens, refresh yourself at the cafe, stroll across the bridge or even get a bird’s-eye view from the chairlift!

There’s also a choice of nearby villages to visit in the surrounding area, as well as the Tamar River and wetland area.

Deloraine to Launceston: 40 min (53km)

LAUNCESTON ACTIVITIES:

• Cataract Gorge Cruise (from $33 ): This 50-minute cruise down Cataract Gorge in Launceston on an 1890s-style vessel includes commentary from the skipper as you pass by historic Kings Wharf, cliffs and the riverside precinct.
• Launceston Batman Bridge Luncheon Cruise (from $135 ): Cruise into Cataract Gorge and along Tamar River to Batman Bridge on this 4-hour trip that includes commentary, morning tea and a light lunch.
• Tamar Valley Wine Tour (from $160 ): Enjoy lunch and sample around 25 wines on this trip from Launceston to four wineries in Tasmania’s Tamar Valley.

LAUNCESTON ACCOMMODATION:

• Arthouse Hostel : This backpacker hostel in a grand heritage mansion has dorms as well as budget single rooms, doubles and triples. There’s free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen and it’s only a 23-minute walk to Cataract Gorge Reserve and City Park.
• Leisure Inn Penny Royal Hotel & Apartments : This heritage property has large, modern hotel suites and self-contained apartments with 1GB free Wi-Fi and on-site bar and restaurant. It’s only a ten-minute walk to Launceston CBD too.
• Pod Inn : If you’re looking for budget accommodation in Launceston but want more privacy than a dorm, this unique and futuristic accommodation offers rooms and dorms with private sleeping pods that wouldn’t look out of place on a spacecraft! There’s a common area, laundry room and shared kitchenettes, and each pod has a reading light, mirror, USB port, fan and a locker. Some even have a small desk for your laptop!

Day 4. Mount William National Park

Our next overnight stop was Mount William National Park, on the stunning far North-East coast of Tasmania.

Just north of Bay of Fires, this peaceful area of beauty has pristine white beaches, turquoise water and amazing views from the summit of Mount William if you take on the 1-hour return walk.

To break up the drive from Launceston, stop in Scottsdale to admire historic buildings or the beautiful fields of Bridestowe Lavender Estate .

Launceston to Mount William National Park (Stumpys Bay): 2 hr 20 min (153km)

MOUNT WILLIAM NATIONAL PARK ACCOMMODATION:

• Stumpys Bay Campground : There are six designated campsites in William Bay National Park. They have pit toilets but no drinking water or power supply, so you’ll need to be self-sufficient. We camped at Stumpys Bay Campground 2 and were surrounded by wallabies wanting to see what we were having for dinner!

Day 5. Bay of Fires Conservation Area

If you’ve ever seen the gorgeous Tasmanian pictures of coastal granite boulders patched with bright orange lichen , the Bay of Fires Conservation Area is where it’s at! I’m sure most of you will want to add this destination to your Tasmania drive itinerary.

Stretching from Binalong Bay down to Eddystone Point, Bay of Fires is made up of beautiful secluded beaches with clear water and rock-lined inlets. Unfortunately a long spell of heavy rain hit when we reached the area, but we did get a quick look before it started.

On the way there you can also detour to St Columba Falls for a rainforest hike and Pyengana to taste local cheeses!

Mount William National Park to Bay of Fires: 1 hr 20 min (70km)

BAY OF FIRES ACCOMMODATION:

• Cosy Corner Campground : There are eight free, beachside designated camping areas in Bay of Fires Conservation Area, and you can stay for up to four weeks! We stayed at Cosy Corner; it was amazing eating dinner overlooking the ocean!
• Trails End Hostel :If you’re backpacking or on a low budget, this cute hostel in St Helens has private rooms and dorms with en-suite bathrooms.
• Bay of Fires Eco Hut : This off-grid eco hut is only 600m from the beach and set on 4.5 acres of private bushland. It sleeps five people and has a private bathroom, living room, kitchenette and barbecue.

Days 6-7. Freycinet National Park

Freycinet National Park is one of my top recommendations for your Tasmania drive itinerary. The coastal views are absolutely stunning, and not just those at well-known Wineglass Bay.

My favourite place in Freycinet was Honeymoon Bay , where we camped. The scenery was really unique and almost otherworldly. The water was so still and glassy too!

The beach at nearby Richardson Bay was stunning too, with really white sand. If you enjoy beaches and hiking, pencil in a few days at Freycinet if you get the weather.

Bay of Fires to Freycinet National Park (Honeymoon Bay): 1 hr 50 min (130km)

FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK ACTIVITIES:

• Wineglass Beach Hike: Day Trip from Hobart (from $119 ): If you prefer to visit Freycinet on an organised tour, this full-day trip includes pick-up from your Hobart hotel, visits to viewpoints, oyster tasting at Freycinet Marine Farm and a guided hike to famous Wineglass Beach.
• Wineglass Bay and Maria Island Scenic Flight (from $399 ): This 3-hour tour includes a scenic flight over spectacular Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park before landing on beautiful Maria Island for a gourmet lunch
• 4-Day Guided Freycinet National Park Walk (from $2,800 ): For the serious hiker, this all-inclusive walking tour covers the entire length of the Freycinet Peninsula and includes snorkelling, two boat trips, experienced guides, food, wine and 3 nights’ accommodation at secluded Friendly Beaches Lodge.

FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK ACCOMMODATION:

• BIG4 Illuka on Freycinet : If you prefer the facilities of a holiday park , this BIG4 in Coles Bay has caravan and camping sites as well as self-catering cabins. As you’d expect from a BIG4, there’s heaps of on-site facilities including a playground, laundry, barbecues, cafe, convenience store and ATM.
• Mayson : This self-contained, two-bedroom house sleeps four people and has a well-equipped kitchen, TV, washing machine and air-con. With a double bed and twin beds, it’s ideal for families, couples or a group, and it’s conveniently located in Coles Bay.
• Honeymoon Bay Campground : There are three campsites in Freycinet National Park . We stayed at Honeymoon Bay, which was my favourite spot to camp on my whole Tasmania road trip! The sunset that evening blew me away, and the whole campsite flocked to see it, as the site’s right by the beach!

Day 8. Port Arthur

I’ll admit I didn’t have much interest in Australia’s convict history until I visited Port Arthur . This UNESCO World-Heritage listed historic site began as a penal settlement back in 1830, and the real-life stories you get to read and hear walking around Port Arthur are absolutely fascinating.

A mixture of eerie ruins, immaculate gardens and the chilling, well-preserved Separate Prison, where masked and slippered convicts were made to live in complete silence, Port Arthur is certainly a place that moves you.

The site completely changed my understanding of what convicts endured in Australia. I’d thoroughly recommend adding it to your Tasmania itinerary.

You do need to pay for entry (see below), but it’s well worth the money. Be sure to stop at the coastal formations on the way too, such as the Tessellated Pavement at Eaglehawk Neck and Tasman’s Arch and Devil’s Kitchen just south of Pirates Bay.

Honeymoon Bay to Port Arthur: 3 hr (207km)

PORT ARTHUR ATTRACTIONS:

• Port Arthur Historic Site Entry Ticket (from $102 ): This is the option we went with. The tickets include a brilliant guided walking tour of the historic site (the stories are amazing!), a harbour cruise and access to the ruins to explore at your own pace. You can use the ticket on two consecutive days if you want to return and spend longer there.
• Port Arthur Day Trip from Hobart (from $129 ): If you prefer to join a group tour, this day trip from Hobart includes the same Port Arthur entrance, cruise and walking tour as above, but with return transport from Hobart plus a clifftop walk and visit to historic Richmond village.
• Port Arthur Tour with Isle of the Dead Cruise (from $155 ): Learn about Australia’s gruesome convict history with this guided tour of Port Arthur, then take a cruise to explore an old graveyard on Isle of the Dead. The tour also includes coastal attractions such as Devil’s Kitchen and Eaglehawk Neck.

PORT ARTHUR ACCOMMODATION:

• Lime Bay State Reserve Campground : We stayed at this basic campsite near the beach after a day trip to Port Arthur. It has views across Norfolk Bay as well as pump-flush toilets and camp fireplaces.
• NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park : This award-winning holiday park has dormitories, cabins and tents, all with water views. It’s less than a five-minute drive to the sites at Port Arthur and has great reviews.
• Fox and Hounds Inn : Situated a one-minute drive from Port Arthur Historical Site, this waterfront inn has a restaurant and bar, and rooms have a/c, heating, fridges and facilities to make tea and coffee.
• Ruby’s Cottage Farm Stay : If you’re a family or group wanting self-contained accommodation, this cute two-bedroom cottage 3km from Port Arthur offers air-con, a fully equipped kitchen, flat-screen TV and breakfast.

Day 9-12. Hobart

Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania, certainly exceeded my expectations! Sprawling along the banks of the Derwent River at the foot of Mount Wellington, the city is beautiful to look at , with plenty of history and culture too.

There are plenty of amazing things to do in Hobart , including the colourful botanic gardens, pretty Seven Mile Beach, vibrant Salamanca Markets and historic Battery Point. The highlight was driving up to the lookout at Mount Wellington though. Since we had a few days of rain to wait out, we also spent some time in the city’s great restaurants.

To see the top Hobart attractions, try booking the double-decker hop-on hop-off Hobart city explorer bus , which takes you on a loop around the city, with multi-lingual commentary (ticket is valid for two days).

Port Arthur to Hobart: 1 hr 30 mins (100km)

HOBART ACTIVITIES:

• Mt Wellington Explorer Bus Pass (from $35 ): Enjoy amazing views on this scenic 2-hour return tour to Mt Wellington from Hobart, which includes 30 minutes to explore the summit and the option to hop on and hop off within Wellington Park along the way.
• Hobart City Sightseeing Tour including MONA (from $35 ): This cultural and historical guided tour includes travel by coach tram , visits to Cascade Brewery, Cascade Gardens and Female Factory, entry to the famous Museum of Old & New Art ( MONA ) and a ferry ride back to the city.
• Tasman Peninsula Full-Day Sea Kayak Adventure (from $110 ): Following a scenic drive to Fortescue Bay in Tasman National Park, enjoy a day of sea kayaking beneath 200m-high cliffs, keeping a look out for seals and dolphins along the way. You’ll stop for lunch at a secluded bay then paddle back past a semi-submerged shipwreck.

HOBART ACCOMMODATION:

There are plenty of accommodation options in Hobart to choose from, including holiday parks, hostels, B&Bs and hotels. Use the search box below to browse through. I’ve also picked out some great choices below.

• Barilla Holiday Park : We spent a rainy few days camping at this leafy caravan park in Cambridge, a 15-minute drive from Hobart CBD. As well as camping and caravan sites, the park offers self-contained cabins sleeping up to six people and has a playground, hot pool, restaurant and mini-golf course.
• Hobart Showground Campsite : We also camped at this huge, cheap camping ground for a night, which was only around $10!
• Hobart Central YHA : I’m a big fan of YHA hostels , as the facilities and standards are usually great. This backpacker hostel, only one block from the waterfront and airport shuttle bus stop, has a selection of dorms and double, twin and family rooms.
• Assemblage Boutique Art B&B : This gorgeous, Parisian-style B&B in a late-nineteenth century post office in New Town looks amazing! Not only does it have mountain views and a cafe, but creative workshops are organised by owner Tanya in the onsite art studio.
• Alabama Hotel Hobart : If you prefer to stay in the CBD, this funky hotel in the city centre has a communal lounge, laundry and bar as well as free Wi-Fi.

Day 13. Ross

If you enjoy history and have the time, make the detour from Hobart up the Heritage Highway to visit the quaint village of Ross . The picturesque town was built by convicts in the early 1800s.

With its pretty stone buildings, this area reminded me of the Cotswolds in England. As well as antique shops and a bakery, Ross also has a beautiful bridge and waterside area.

Hobart to Ross: 1 hr 30 mins (120km)

ROSS ACCOMMODATION:

• Oatlands Free Caravan Park : We stayed at this free camping ground in nearby Oatlands. It doesn’t have a website, but you’ll find it on the Esplanade along Lake Dulverton, next to Callington Park playground. There aren’t any showers, but there’s a public toilet block very nearby on the Esplanade. You can stay for up to three nights.
• Lake Leake Inn : This simple, budget-friendly inn lies between Ross and Freycinet National Park. There’s an on-site bar and restaurant, shared bathrooms and free parking. According to the reviews, it’s a peaceful place with great food and very welcoming hosts.
• Elm Trees Accommodation @ Ross : For groups or families preferring self-contained accommodation, this two-bedroom cottage in Ross sleeps four and has a fully equipped kitchen, mountain views and a log fire.

Days 14-16. Bruny Island

Bruny Island is one of the absolute highlights on this Tasmania drive itinerary . We only added it onto our trip after some locals recommended it, (we’d originally planned to visit Maria Island instead) and I was so pleased we did!

For some reason, I was expecting it to be more built up, but it’s actually a really pristine, unspoilt wilderness. We camped in Adventure Bay, the main “town” which basically had a small shop and miniscule petrol station!

The island is full of phenomenal beaches and beautiful bush walks, and the view from the Neck is amazing. There’s plenty of native wildlife too, so keep your eye out for white wallabies, fur seals and fairy penguins!

• Hobart to Kettering:  35 min (33km)
• Kettering to Bruny Island ferry:  30 min

BRUNY ISLAND TOURS FROM HOBART:

• Bruny Island Day Trip from Hobart (from $125 ): This full-day trip to Bruny Island from Hobart includes a rainforest walk, time for a swim, panoramic views from the Neck and lighthouse as well as local food and drink samples along the way.
• Bruny Island Full-Day Food, Lighthouse & Sightseeing Tour from Hobart (from $205 ): Sample the best of Bruny Island with this guided tour including a lighthouse tour, local food tasting, stop offs at lookout points, short rainforest walks and lunch at Hotel Bruny.
• Bruny Island Wilderness Eco Tour from Hobart (from $235 ): This 10-hour eco tour from Hobart includes morning tea and lunch at a local restaurant and a 3-hour, wildlife-spotting wilderness cruise beneath high cliffs and into deep sea caves.

BRUNY ISLAND ACCOMMODATION:

• Captain Cook Holiday Park : We camped at this beachfront caravan park in Adventure Bay. The location opposite a beautiful beach was amazing, and it was useful to have the shop and petrol station nearby. The site has cabins, villas and a large kitchen and communal area for campers.
• 43 Degrees, Bruny Island : Each of these unique, domed-shape, timber apartments in Adventure Bay comes equipped with a patio, garden view, kitchen, flat-screen TV, air-con and private bathroom with a hot tub!
• South Bruny Camping : If you’re self sufficient, you can camp at either Jetty Beach or Cloudy Bay in South Bruny National Park, as well as at The Neck Reserve. We stopped by Jetty Beach, and it was stunning! You’ll need your own water and stove, but there are pit toilets there.

Days 17-18. Lake St Clair-Cradle Mountain National Park

Part of Tasmania’s UNESCO World Heritage site , Lake St Clair-Cradle Mountain National Park is another of my top recommended places to add to your Tasmania itinerary. It was one of my favourite locations on the trip.

We chose to stay at Lake St Clair on the southern edge of the park, which is home to Australia’s deepest lake, carved out by ice over 2 million years.

The scenery here is absolutely gorgeous, with lush pine forests, a mountainous backdrop and pink and silver reflections on the mirror-like water. We could also access a multitude of walking tracks from the visitor centre, so it made an ideal base.

You could also stay at Cradle Mountain on the north side of the national park and explore ancient rainforests and glacial lakes. Either way, it’s going to be beautiful. It’s also worth stopping at Mount Field on the way from Hobart to see some of the waterfalls too.

• Kettering to Lake St Clair : 2 hr 54 min (212km)
• Hobart to Lake St Clair : 2 hr 20 min (179km)

LAKE ST CLAIR & CRADLE MOUNTAIN TOURS & ACTIVITIES:

• Cradle Mountain National Park Explorer Group Tour (from $19 ): This guided tour drives you into Cradle Mountain National Park, where you’ll enjoy forest walks and a visit to Dove Lake and Waldheim Chalet.
• Cradle Mountain Day Tour from Launceston (from $130 ): From Launceston, this full-day tour takes you to Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake with five hours to enjoy walks and lunch and food tasting at a cheese factory on the way back.
• Cradle Mountain: Dove Lake Circuit Walk (from $245 ): From Cradle Mountain, join a small group on this guided walk to see ancient Glacier rock, majestic Ballroom rainforest and the western shore of Dove Lake.

LAKE ST CLAIR ACCOMMODATION:

• Lake St Clair Lodge : We camped at this lovely lakeside resort just a one-minute drive from Derwent Bridge. The accommodation has lodges, studios and cottages as well as a bar and restaurant. It’s surrounded by nature, and you have immediate access to many walking tracks. I’d highly recommend it.
• Derwent Bridge Chalets & Studios : These chalets and studios 5km from Lake St Clair have kitchenettes, en-suite bathrooms, TVs and a cafe next door.

CRADLE MOUNTAIN ACCOMMODATION:

• Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain : If you’re travelling on a budget, you can camp or stay in dorms at this holiday park , or choose from a range of cabins and villas. The site has free Wi-Fi and parking as well as a laundry and barbecues.
• Cradle Mountain Hotel : Set in stunning alpine woodland, this 4-star hotel is a five-minute drive to the national park and has free Wi-Fi, heating and an on-site restaurant and bar.

Day 19. Queenstown

The next stop on this Tasmania drive itinerary is Queenstown, the largest town in the west of Tasmania (though still pretty small!). You can learn about Queenstown’s mining history in the local museum, visit lookouts, waterfalls and nearby Ironblow Lookout or have fun on the West Coast Wilderness Railway steam train ride like we did!

Lake St Clair to Queenstown: 1 hr 20 min – 91km

QUEENSTOWN ACCOMMODATION:

• Queenstown Cabin and Tourist Park : We camped at this basic tourist park , which has powered and unpowered sites, on-site vans and double and family cabins. Cheap and cheerful!
• The Empire Hotel : This 2-star, budget hotel in a heritage building in Queenstown has a mixture of single, double, quadruple (with bunk beds) and family rooms, so it’s great for solo travellers or groups of friends. There’s free Wi-fi, an on-site restaurant and bar and free parking outside.
• Comfort Inn Gold Rush : For a bit more comfort, this lovely 3-star motel is only 1km from the centre of Queenstown and has fantastic ratings. The spacious, heated rooms have free Wi-Fi, parking outside, a flat-screen TV, electric blankets and a kitchenette.

Day 20. Strahan

Lying on the shores of Macquarie Harbour, Strahan is a really interesting town to visit, with plenty of history, as well as arts and craft shops to peruse.

The main reason we stayed in Strahan was to join the beautiful World-Heritage Cruise on Gordon River (see below), but you can also stop at Montezuma Falls on the way back up to Devonport; it’s the highest waterfall in Tasmania!

• Queenstown to Strahan: 45 min (42km)
• Strahan to Devonport: 2 hrs 45 min (223km)

STRAHAN ACTIVITIES:

• Gordon River World Heritage Cruise (from $135 ): We loved this relaxing catamaran cruise from Strahan, which includes a buffet lunch, rainforest walk and a guided tour of Sarah Island, Australia’s first penal settlement, where the guide will share lots of gruesome tales! The scenery along the tranquil, inky black Gordon River is absolutely stunning!

STRAHAN ACCOMMODATION:

• Strahan Beach Tourist Park : This beachside tourist park is where we camped. The park has a range of cabins, playground , laundry and barbecues and is only a 15-minute walk into town.
• Strahan Wilderness Lodge : You can choose a double, twin or queen-size room at this charming waterside lodge in Strahan. There’s free Wi-Fi, parking and a shared garden and lounge.
• Strahan Village : This waterfront accommodation is right by Strahan centre, and has an on-site restaurant and bar. The rooms have heating, tea/coffee-making facilities, a fridge and TV.

I hope you found this Tasmania self drive itinerary useful! Tasmania really is a stunning state that’s well worth visiting. I had an amazing time on my road trip.

Make sure you check out my Australian drive itineraries page for more inspiration. I’ve mapped the whole coastline from Perth to Brisbane via the south and east coasts! Happy travels!

Lisa Bull, founder of Dreaming of Down Under, has been living in Australia as a British expat since 2015. After travelling to every state and territory in Australia and living in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney, Lisa knows from first-hand experience the best destinations to visit in Australia and the best budget travel tips. Her guides on this blog have been read by over 700k readers and helped thousands of people achieve their dream of living in or travelling Australia.

Thank you for your blog post – it has been very helpful in planning a trip!

No problem! Enjoy your trip.

Excellent . I think it will help us with our 3 plus week tour in our own car. Need to visit Georgetown, having worked there in early 1970s and loved it.

Sorry for my late reply! Have a great time on your trip!

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Hi, I'm Lisa, a British expat living in Sydney. I've travelled almost the whole Australian coastline and love sharing detailed travel and migration guides to inspire other adventurous souls to travel or move to Australia. Read more about me!