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Tasmania Road Trip Map

© We are Explorers

A Tasmania road trip map is essential for any traveller wanting to experience their own self-guided driving adventure.

There are a few different reasons for needing a map of Tasmania, which is why we have provided two different versions. 

Our Tasmania Touring Map showing distances and popular towns to stay the night, while our interactive Tasmania Attractions Map shows you dozens of interesting places to see, fun things to do, cosy accommodation, and some of Tasmania’s best places to get a delicious meal.

Tasmania Touring Map

Understanding the distances between towns is very important for a road trip in Tasmania.

The mountainous terrain and stunning sights mean you need to allow more time to cover the same distance compared to mainland Australia.

Our Tasmania Touring Map is a good place to start planning your road trip itinerary. For the perfect, relaxing road trip we recommend trying to keep your time on the road to around 100-200km per day.

If you are wondering how to plan your Tasmania road trip and choose the best route around the island, you will love our handy eBook – ‘ How to Plan Your Tasmania Road Trip ‘.  Click the button below to learn more!

Tasmania Attractions Map

Our Tasmania Attractions Map dives down into the detail, showing you:

The official route of the Lap of Tasmania - this route can be driven either clockwise or anti-clockwise

The best towns to stay the night - close to the action while breaking up the journey into manageable sections

Attractions, walks, tours, historic sites and other fun things you can experience along the route

Our favourite accommodation options for budget, family and luxury travellers

Tasmania's best foodie options - covering breakfast, lunch and dinner

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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Bay of Fires

The Best Tasmania Itinerary (+ Tasmania Road Trip Map)

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Tasmania is an island state in Australia known for its rugged landscape, sparse population and of course Tasmanian devils. Affectionately called “Tassie” by Australians, it is rugged and wild and easy to fall for.   Outdoor enthusiasts will love the awesome hiking opportunities and city lovers will appreciate the rich foodie and art culture.

In this guide, we want to help you plan the best Tasmania itinerary with our tips for the best things to do in Tasmania and how to make the most of your Tasmania road trip.

  • 1 When to Go to Tasmania
  • 2.2 Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula
  • 2.3 Freycinet National Park – Wineglass Bay
  • 2.4 Bay of Fires
  • 2.5 Launceston
  • 2.6 Cradle Mountain National Park
  • 3 Getting to Tasmania
  • 4 Getting Around Tasmania (+Renting a Car in Tasmania)
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When to Go to Tasmania

Tasmania’s weather is very different from what most people think of when they think of Australia.  Tasmania experiences four seasons and parts of the island see snow in winter.  Christmas through to early February is peak time on the island as it is school holidays and temperatures are the warmest – a comfortable low 20s (C).  If you are looking to avoid the crowds, the shoulder seasons are a great time to travel (March-April and October-November).  Winter offers the best value, but will require lots of layers and winter clothing.

Weather in Tasmania can be very variable and change quickly regardless of which time of year you visit.  Pack lots of clothes to layer and be prepared for swift weather changes. We experienced 12 degree weather and lots of rain at Cradle Mountain, even in January.

Tasmania Itinerary + Map

Tasmania is Australia’s smallest state and with a maximum width and length of 300 km, it is manageable to explore many of the highlights on one visit.  You could race around and see the east coast sights in one week, but 10-14 days will give you a chance to slow down and explore a little bit deeper.  This 1 and 2 week itinerary includes the Tasmania must see highlights and the best places to visit in Tasmania.

1 Week Tasmania Itinerary: Hobart, Port Arthur, Wineglass Bay (Freycinet National Park)

2 Week Tasmania Itinerary: Hobart, Port Arthur, Wineglass Bay, Bay of Fires, Launceston, Cradle Mountain National Park

If you have more time, consider including Bruny Island, the wild west coast, the Huon Valley, the Tamar Valley, Bicheno or Penguin to your itinerary.

Hobart is the capital and largest city of Tasmania with a population of 220,000.  It’s walkable, has a relaxing vibe, a huge arts and culture scene and plenty of farm to table foodie restaurants.  It’s harbourside setting with mountains and valleys surrounding the city make it a great base to explore the outdoors.

Start your visit by wandering the city, climbing Kelly’s Steps to the Battery Point neighborhood with its quaint cottages and views.

Salamanca Market

Hobart is famous for being home to  MONA, the Museum of Old & New .  This Hobart attraction is a privately funded museum that the owner describes as a “subversive adult Disneyland” and for many, it is the highlight of their time in Hobart.   MONA is open from 10-6 in the summer, closed on Tuesdays and the entrance fee is $30/adult. It is located 11 km outside of Hobart.  You can take a ferry or arrive by road.

View from top of Mt WEllington

Mawson’s Hut Replica Museum is a recreation of the hunt that Sir Douglas Mawson’s team built for their Antarctica expedition in 1911-1914.   This is an interesting place to learn more about Antarctica, the polar explorers, and their scientific work. You only need an hour to visit the museum.  It is open daily from 9-5 in the summer and 10-4 in the winter months.  Entrance tickets are $15/adult, $5/child, $35/family.

Where to Stay Hobart

Salamanca Inn – situated right in Battery Park, this mid-range hotel is a great option.  With spacious apartments, an in-door pool, free parking and right in the centre of Hobart, this hotel consistently gets great reviews.  Click here to check the latest prices.

The Henry Jones Art Hotel – an uber cool hotel that looks more like a modern art gallery, this hotel is well situated in central Hobart and offers great service and a great atmosphere.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Camping – the  Discovery Park Hobart is convenient for accessing central Hobart, but is located alongside a busy highway.

Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula

Port Arthur is the best preserved convict site in Australia and was actually a penal colony for the penal colony.  It is located 1.5 hours from Hobart, so you can visit on a day trip.  However, the Tasman Peninsula in which Port Arthur sits on is worth spending a night or two.

Port Arthur buildings

Port Arthur is a fascinating place due to its historical significance not just from the convict era, but in more recent times as well.  In 1996, 35 people lost their lives at the tourist site of Port Arthur as a  gunman went on a shooting spree.  Australia quickly took action and amended their gun control laws prohibiting semi-automatic weapons.  Twenty years on and the government’s action has proven successful with a decline in mass shootings and firearm deaths.

Practical Information: Port Arthur is open every day of the year, 9 am to dusk.  Tickets cost $40 AUD/adult, $18/child, $102/family (up to 6 children).  There is a canteen on site serving meals, drinks and snacks.

Port Arthur touring

Learning, learning, lots of learning.

While most visitors come to the Tasman Peninsula to visit Port Arthur, there are many other interesting things to see on the Peninsula.  You can camp and hike at Tasman National Park at Fortescue Bay and visit many geological wonders including the Tesselated Pavement, Tasman Arch, Devil’s Kitchen, and Eaglehawk Neck.  You can also take a boat cruise, visit a lavender farm and enjoy delicious Tasmanian cuisine.

Tasman Arch

Tasman Arch

Where to Stay Port Arthur  

Stewarts Bay Lodge – within walking distance to Port Arthur Historic Site, this is the best accommodation if you want to be really close to Port Arthur.  The lodge is cozy and homey with its own private beach and spacious cabins.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Camping – We recommend staying at Fortescue Bay in Tasman National Park. The camp sites are located right near a beautiful beach and is a jumping off point for hikers doing multi-day hikes. Facilities are basic, but the wildlife opportunities are worth it.  Note that the campground is 12 km off the highway, down a rough unsealed road.   This is a popular campground, so booking are essential.  Sites are $13-16/night.  It is 17 km from the campground to the Port Arthur Historic Site.

Freycinet National Park – Wineglass Bay

Freycinet National Park surrounds Coles Bay on the east coast of Tasmania.  The National Park is best known for Wineglass Bay, a gorgeous stretch of sandy beach and turquoise waters dotted with pink granite cliffs.  It is one of the most popular things to see in Tasmania, so be prepared to share this special spot with other visitors.

The most common walk is to the Wineglass Bay Lookout, a 2.4 km return loop that takes 1-1.5 hours.  From the lookout you can continue your hike down to Wineglass Bay, which will add 3.5 km return and another 1.5 hours.  While Freycinet National Park is synonymous with Wineglass Bay, there are many other incredible places to explore in the National Park.

Where to Stay Freycinet National Park

You have a few choices of where to base yourself when visiting Freycinet National Park.  You can stay in Coles Bay , or nearby Bicheno or Swansea .

Edge of the Bay Resort – located 4 km outside of Coles Bay, the rooms have gorgeous views and you will have wildlife on your doorstep.  Located 5 minutes from town, but peaceful and tranquil, Edge of the Bay Resort is a great choice when visiting Freycinet.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Saffire Freycinet (Luxury) – this architectural gem is gorgeous with modern luxe suites, views from every room, an award winning restaurant and top notch hospitality.  Worth the splurge!  Click here to check the latest prices.

Big 4 Iluka Camping and Cabins – great location opposite Muir’s Beach with nice water views, an IGA down the street and good access to Freycinet National Park.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Bay of Fires

Bay of Fires has gained quite a bit of attention recently as one of the most beautiful places in Australia.  The unique orange covered boulders that litter the coast shine against the white sand beaches and turquoise waters, making for a photographer’s dream.  Best of all, it is still off-the-beaten path so you can find deserted bays.  While the water may look inviting, even in summer it never gets above 65 degrees, making for a very refreshing experience.

IMG_5480

We spent hours climbing the big boulders, finding secret passages through the rocks, and exploring the tidal pools.  The sunsets are incredible .  The best way to experience the Bay of Fires is by camping, however you can stay in nearby Binalong Bay or St. Helens too.

Where to Stay Bay of Fires

Pelican Point Sanctuary – located just north of St. Helens, this quiet place really is a sanctuary.  Located near the sea with abundant birdlife, the clean rooms and friendly staff, make this a great choice.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Airbnb – there are a number of great airbnbs near the Bay of Fires.  Burgess Cottage is a great choice.

Camping – Cosy Corner South campground is a basic free camping area with stunning views right on the water.  It is first-come-first-serve and incredibly popular.  There are a couple of drop toilets, but you need to bring in your own water and take out your waste.

Launceston is Tasmania’s second largest city and is best known for the beautiful Cataract Gorge. In the late 1800s, someone had the foresight to create this beautiful park around this breathtaking Gorge with walking trails, a large swimming pool, restaurants and even a chairlift across the water.

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A 3.4 km walking track will take you around the Gorge and over the long suspension bridge.  The free and chilly public swimming pool can be a great place to cool down or you can go for a swim in the river.  You can ride the First Basin Scenic Chairlift across the river for $13/adult and $8/child, one-way.  The chairlift is open everyday from 9 am.

Other ideas for things to do in Launceston include visiting the Saturday Harvest Market, City Park Launceston, Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery and of course the Tamar Valley wineries.

Where to Stay Launceston

Peppers Silo – this modern and comfortable hotel offers good value with great views of the city and river. Some of the rooms are located inside a renovated grain silo, making this a unique place to stay.    Click here to check the latest prices.

Camping – the Big 4  Lauceston campground is very kid friendly with a playground and jumping pillow for the kids.

Cradle Mountain National Park

Cradle Mountain National Park was one of the highlights of our time in Tasmania and we wish we had allocated more than just one night here.  The terrain is really unique – Lord of the Rings-like with wild alpine moorlands, glacial lakes and moss covered rainforest.  The higher altitude makes it cool even in summer and it is known for its misty and moody weather.  The hiking opportunities are fabulous with everything from short day hikes to multi-day epic trails.

IMG_5379

To protect this fragile environment, the National Park provides mandatory shuttle service between the Visitor Centre and the most popular sights and hikes.  A 24 hour Cradle Mountain pass costs $16.50/adult, $8.25/child, $41.25/family (2+3).  Holiday passes for up to 8 weeks are also available.

The most popular hike is the Dove Lake circuit with gorgeous views of Cradle Mountain on a clear day.  The circuit is 6 km and takes 2 hours.  There are numerous other short hikes if you have time.  You can almost guarantee that you will see a wombat in the National Park.

We only wishes we could have spent more than one night there and that it didn’t rain most of the time we were there.

Tassie is well known for its fabulous produce and food.  On our 2.5 hour drive from Launceston to Cradle Mountain we did stop to sample some local foods highlighted in the  Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail .   We enjoyed the chocolates at  Anvers Chocolates , tasted delicious cheeses at  Ashgrove Cheese , sampled some yummy craft beer at  7 Sheds Brewery and visited enjoyed a lovely meal at the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm.

Marakoopa cave

Where to Stay Cradle Mountain

Camping or Cabins –  Located right on the edge of the National Park, the Discovery Holidays Parks campground offers a wilderness experience right at your doorstep. The campground has a wonderful chalet building with a wood burning stove, a camp kitchen and travelers from all over the world to hang out with.  They also have comfortable cottages and cabins if you are looking for more comfort.  Click here to check the latest prices.

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge –  a luxury experience in the wilderness, this lodge is picturesque and cozy with open fireplaces, postcard views and even a spa to soothe your sore muscles.  Did we mention the lodge is located right in the National Park?  Click here to check the latest prices.

Getting to Tasmania

Since Tasmania is an island, you have two choices of how to get here: you can fly or take a boat.

The main airports in Tasmania are in Hobart and Launceston which offer frequent directs flights to Melbourne and Sydney.  Flights are 1-2 hours and cost AUD $100-200/each way.

The  Spirit of Tasmania is a ferry that sails between Melbourne and Davenport in Tasmania.  We opted for the ferry since we were bringing our car and thought it would be an interesting way to get across the Bass Strait. The Bass Strait is known to be a rough passage as the warm waters of the Indian ocean meet the Pacific through this narrow and shallow strait. Read our Tips For Taking the Spirit of Tasmania here.    Spirit of Tasmania fares start at $89/person and $99/vehicle, but increase drastically during peak times.

Getting Around Tasmania (+Renting a Car in Tasmania)

The best way to explore Tasmania really is by car which gives you the most freedom.  Many of the most beautiful spots are in between popular Tasmania tourist attractions and with your own car you can stop to enjoy a deserted beach that beckons or buy some fresh cherries from the farm stand.

Most visitors will rent a car from Hobart or Launceston.  A 2WD is perfectly suitable for exploring the east coast of Tasmania.  You will have to be comfortable driving on the left, but the roads are quiet and small.  Similar to New Zealand, it does take longer to get around on the smaller roads.

Click here to check the latest prices of car rentals in Tasmania.

Tasmania with Kids

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There are so many wonderful activities that both kids and parents will love in Tasmania.  Here were our top things to do in Tasmania with kids:

  • climbing the boulders and finding hidden caves at the Bay of Fires
  • learning about Antarctic exploration at Mawson’s Hut Museum in Hobart
  • testing out the chilly waters of Cataract Gorge in Launceston
  • savoring fresh fruit from roadside vendors
  • spotting wombats at Cradle Mountain National Park
  • learning about Australia’s convict history at Port Arthur
  • seeing and learning about the geological formations on the Tasman peninsula
  • shopping for treats at the Salamanca Markets
  • spotting glow worms at Mole Creek
  • riding the Scenic Chairlift at Cataract Gorge, Launceston
  • climbing the boulders on the top of Mount Wellington

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Guide to Tasmania

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Tasmania Explorer

Tasmania Explorer

Tasmania Travel Guide: Road Trips, Attractions & Accommodation

Planning a trip to Tasmania? Fantastic! This island state at the bottom of Australia offers so much for visitors.

In this Tasmania travel guide, I share everything you need to know about Tasmania in my Tasmania travel blog so you can plan your best trip ever.

Whether you want the best Tasmanian itinerary for a long weekend or a long epic adventure, I can help you below with plenty of inspiration and practical attraction and accommodation guides to help you plan your travel to Tasmania.

This guide is all about overall Tasmania travel planning with plenty of Tasmania travel tips. To read guides to individual places in Tasmania, click here .

If you have just started your travel Tasmania planning, I recommend you start with this article . I go step-by-step through everything you need to do to plan your trip to Tasmania including how to get to Tasmania, get around once you get there, where to go and what to pack and budget.

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.

Tasmania Travel Guide

Wineglass Bay

Tasmania is an island off the south east coast of Australia. One of the states of Australia, it offers a lot of variety and is quite different to the rest of the country, yet easy to reach and fun to explore.

With a population of just over half million, it’s also sparsely populated and it’s crazy easy to find a gorgeous beach or slice of heaven to yourself.

Find our ultimate how to plan a trip to Tasmania guide below.

Wineglass Bay

Tasmania Road Trip Planner✅: How To Plan A Trip To Tasmania

Tasmania uses Australian dollars just like everywhere else in Australia. ATMs are readily available in population centres and most places will take credit cards.

Tasmania has four distinct seasons, although sometimes these can all happen within the one day!

I have experienced snow in Tasmania at Christmas time and have been sunburned in winter so be prepared for all weather regardless of the time of year, especially cold weather. Parts like Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park can be cold and frosty at any time of year. Even Hobart can have a hot summer’s day and then the cold wind will start in the early evening and you can go from sweaty hot to freezing cold within an hour.

The sun is particularly harsh in Tasmania so don’t forget the sunscreen and hat. It’s much easier to get burned here than on the mainland of Australia.

Pumphouse Point over the lake

Getting To Tasmania

The major airport in Tasmania is in Hobart with reasonable flight options to Launceston and some flight options to Burnie and Devonport. Flights from other capital cities, particularly Melbourne, can be very cheap with a good deal.

Click here to look up flight costs.

The other popular option is to take the Spirit of Tasmania car ferry from Geelong. This is an overnight or full day journey (day crossing are only at peak times) between Geelong and Devonport on the north coast of Tasmania.

This is a great way to take your car with you which can save on car hire and make travel easier. However, if you aren’t taking your car, it’s easier, quicker and usually cheaper to fly.

Read our full guide to taking the Spirit of Tasmania below.

Spirit of Tasmania

Ferry To Tasmania⛴️: Everything You Need To Know

Top tasmania travel itinerary options.

Planning your trip to Tasmania but not sure how long you want to spend where and how it should fit together? Check out our itineraries as we have done the work for you!

Want more itineraries and a detailed plan for each day? Find our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here.

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Tasmania Bridge, Hobart

14 Day Tasmania Itinerary✅: Ultimate Tasmanian Road Trip

Best places to visit in tasmania.

Looking for some travel guides Tasmania inspiration? There are many great destinations to visit in Tasmania but what are the best? If you are looking for inspiration for your trip, these articles are for you!

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Best Things To Do In Tasmania With Kids✅

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Lavender Farms In Tasmania💜: Where And When To Go

wineglass bay

Top 10 Best Beaches In Tasmania

Best tasmania accommodation.

There is a huge range of accommodation in Tasmania available in many different places in this island state. From camping in a national park to stunning eco-options, there are some great choices.

They are popular though so book ahead. You can find dedicated accommodation guides in the d estinations part of this site.

Getting Around Tasmania

Getting around Tasmania is easy – if you have a car! This is not a good place to be relying on public transport.

Thankfully, it’s easy to hire a car and drive yourself. We love doing this! You can read more here about driving in Tasmania.

You can also bring your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania from Geelong.

Driving over the Bowen Bridge in Hobart

Bargain Car Rentals Discount Code [5% Off Cheapest Rate!]🚗

LeisureRent motorhome

LeisureRent Discount Code [5% Off Cheapest Rate!]🚗

driving Tasmania winter

Driving in Tasmania🚗: Tips, Laws, Itineraries And More

For car hire, 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 when 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 .

Other Tasmania Travel Guides

Mount Wellington

Best Time To Visit Tasmania☀️: Weather, Crowds And More

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Our Experiences In Hotel Quarantine In Tasmania

You can find more information on specific destinations in Tasmania here or find everything else you need to know about visiting Tasmania in all our Tasmania travel guides here. You can also buy our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here.

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tasmania travel times map

Map of Tasmania

tasmania travel times map

Explore Tasmania with our interactive map. Simply click on the Map below to visit each of the regions of Tasmania. We have included some of the popular destinations to give you give you an idea of where they are located in the state. If you want to see more maps use the navigation panel on the right hand side of this page to view the State and territory Maps of Australia. Australia is a big country so make sure you understand the the distances and travel time involved.

Discover Tasmania's Regions

View of Hobart city from Mt Wellington

Global Travel Planning

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!

A view of the Hazards a mountain range in Freycinet National Park Tasmania

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

Tasmania Itinerary Road Trip

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.

View of a boat from a beach in Tasmania

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 .

Salamanca Market building in Hobart

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.

View of Mount Wellington in Hobart Tasmania

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!!

Hobart Art Museum artwork room

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.

Salamanca Markets in Hobart.

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!

Richmond Tasmania.

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

Tasmanian devils and the Unzoo.

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.

Port Arthur 1

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!

Richmond Tasmania.

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!)

Edge of the bay Resort in Tasmania

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.

Freycinet Wineglass Bay walks map

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!

Freycinet National Park

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.

Bay of Fires in Tasmania Australia

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.

Bay of Fires Tasmania

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!

TASMANIA LAVENDER FARM

We spent one evening in Launceston at a lovely B&B (Kurrajong House Bed and Breakfast) owned by a couple originally from the UK.

Our room at the Kurrajong House Bed and Breakfast in Launceston Tasmania

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!

A Swiss style village in Tasmania

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!

Raspberry Farm Tasmania

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.

ashgove cheese farm

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.

wombats on cradle mountain

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.

Cradle Mountain walk

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!

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge in Tasmania

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.

Quokka and a quoll

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.

Map of Cradle Mountain.

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.

Entrance to Peppers Cradle Mountain

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!!

Beautiful Tasmania in Australia

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

Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

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Guide To Tasmania, Australia: Time, Weather, Maps, And More

Bruny Island in Tasmania

Tasmania, Australia, is one of the world's most unique and captivating destinations. Located off the southern coast of mainland Australia, Tasmania is an island state that offers visitors an incredible array of attractions, activities, and experiences. Despite being one of the smallest states in Australia, Tasmania is packed with natural beauty and cultural significance. Home to rugged coastlines, rolling hills, dense forests, and pristine beaches, Tasmania is a nature lover's paradise. The island is also steeped in history, with a rich Aboriginal heritage and a colonial past still evident in many of its cities and towns.

From hiking in stunning national parks and spotting rare wildlife to exploring fascinating museums and enjoying delicious local food and wine, there's no shortage of things to do and see in Tasmania . And with its friendly locals, relaxed atmosphere, and unique charm, it's no wonder that Tasmania is considered a must-visit destination for tourists worldwide. So whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Tasmania has something to offer everyone. Explore this incredible island state for yourself and discover what Tasmania, Australia, offers.

Time In Tasmania, Australia

Tasmania operates on Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST), 10 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+10). It's important to note that Tasmania is one of the few places in Australia that doesn't observe Daylight Saving Time, so during the summer months, the time difference between Tasmania and the rest of the country will be one hour less.

The Best Time to Visit Tasmania

Tourists enjoying food festival in Tasmania

The best time to visit Tasmania depends on your preferences and interests. Generally speaking, Tasmania's peak tourist season is during the summer months of December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) can also be great times to visit, with milder weather and fewer crowds.

It's also worth noting that Tasmania hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Taste of Tasmania food festival in December and the Dark Mofo winter festival in June, which can be great reasons to plan your visit around.

How To Adjust to the Time Difference

If you're traveling to Tasmania from overseas or from another part of Australia, adjusting to the time difference is essential to avoid jet lag. One way to do this is to gradually shift your sleep schedule a few days before your trip to better align with Tasmania's time zone. It's also important to stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can disrupt your sleep.

Weather in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia

Tasmania's climate is generally cooler and wetter than mainland Australia, with four seasons. In Hobart, Tasmania's capital city, summers are mild to warm, with temperatures averaging around 22C (72F), while winters are cool to cold, with temperatures averaging around 12C (54F).

The Best Time to Visit Hobart

The best time to visit Hobart depends on what you want to do and see. Summer is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities and events. However, autumn can be a great time to visit for stunning foliage and harvest festivals. At the same time, winter is perfect for cozying up with a warm drink and enjoying the Dark Mofo festival.

Tasmania Australia Map

Red pin on Hobart, Tasmania map

A comprehensive map of Tasmania is essential for planning your trip and exploring the island's natural wonders. The map should include major cities, landmarks, national parks, and beaches. With so much to see and do in Tasmania, it's essential to understand the island's layout and transportation options clearly.

Exploring Tasmania's Natural Wonders

view of cradle mountain, Tasmania

Tasmania is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, including national parks, beaches, and forests. Some of the most popular natural attractions include:  

  • Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park: This park offers stunning views of Cradle Mountain and surrounding lakes, as well as opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
  • Freycinet National Park: Home to the famous Wineglass Bay, this park is known for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and sea kayaking opportunities.
  • Mount Field National Park: An excellent spot for nature walks and birdwatching, this park is home to Russell Falls and other picturesque waterfalls.
  • Bay of Fires: This scenic coastal area offers beautiful beaches, clear swimming waters, and fishing and kayaking opportunities.
  • Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area: Covering over 20% of Tasmania's land area, this protected wilderness area is a must-visit for nature lovers. It features unique flora, fauna, and stunning natural landscapes such as mountains, lakes, and forests.

Exploring these natural wonders in Tasmania is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the island's natural beauty.

Navigating Tasmania's Roads and Transportation Options

While Tasmania is relatively small, having a plan for navigating its roads and transportation options is essential. Several car rental companies and public transportation options, including buses and ferries, are available. It's also worth considering taking a guided tour to get the most out of your visit and learn about Tasmania's history and culture from a local perspective.

Essential Tips To Keep In Mind When Traveling To Tasmania

  • Plan: Tasmania is a popular destination, especially during peak tourist season, so it's best to plan your trip. Book your accommodations, tours, and activities early to ensure availability.
  • Dress for the weather: Tasmania's climate is highly variable, so it's essential to pack clothing appropriate for different weather conditions. The island is generally cooler than the rest of Australia, so pack warm layers, even in the summer.
  • Rent a car: Tasmania is best explored by car, as many of the most scenic areas are only accessible by road. Renting a car will also allow you to explore at your own pace.
  • Respect the wildlife: Tasmania is home to many unique and endangered species, so respecting their habitats and keeping a safe distance is essential. Don't feed or approach animals; always dispose of your rubbish correctly.
  • Try the local cuisine: Tasmania is known for its fresh seafood, gourmet cheese, and excellent wine. Be sure to try the local delicacies and support the island's thriving food and beverage industry.
  • Carry cash: While most places in Tasmania accept credit cards, carrying some money is always a good idea, especially if you plan on visiting more remote areas.
  • Take out travel insurance: As with any trip, it's essential to take out travel insurance to cover any unexpected events or emergencies that may occur during your visit.

Remembering these tips will prepare you for a memorable and enjoyable trip to Tasmania.

Tasmania, Australia, is an incredible destination that has much to offer travelers from all over the world. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich history and culture, Tasmania is a must-visit location for anyone looking to explore Australia's best. Whether you're interested in hiking through lush rainforests, sampling delicious locally produced food and drink, or simply relaxing on a beautiful beach, Tasmania has something to suit your interests and tastes.

Whether traveling solo, with friends, or with family, Tasmania has plenty of activities and experiences to keep you entertained and engaged throughout your stay. And with friendly locals, beautiful scenery, and a laid-back atmosphere, you will surely leave Tasmania feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired. If you're interested in learning more about Tasmania and planning your unforgettable trip to this fantastic destination, be sure to visit Leisure and find a wealth of information and resources to help you make the most of your time in Tasmania, including travel guides, recommendations for top attractions and activities, and much more.

Is Tasmania part of Australia?

Yes, Tasmania is a state of Australia located south of the mainland.

How do I get to Tasmania?

Tasmania can be reached by plane, with direct flights from major cities in Australia and Auckland, New Zealand. Ferries also operate from Melbourne to Devonport.

What are some unique experiences to have in Tasmania?

Tasmania offers many unique experiences, including wildlife encounters like seeing the Tasmanian devil or spotting whales and dolphins along the coast. You can also explore the island's rich history through its museums and historic sites or indulge in locally-produced wine, cheese, and seafood.

What are the must-try foods in Tasmania?

Some must-try foods in Tasmania include fresh seafood, such as oysters, scallops, and abalone, and locally-grown produce, including berries, apples, and truffles. Tasmania is known for its artisanal cheeses, boutique chocolates, craft beers, and ciders.

Our private tours typically range from $500 - $1000 per person/per night depending on chosen hotels and room categories, vehicles used, types of tours, flight cost, time of year and other factors. Make an inquiry for a customized trip quote.

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tasmania travel times map

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Tasmania travel map

Tasmania travel map

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How long will you need for your east coast Tasmania holiday?

The Great Eastern Drive stretches along 220 kilometres of Tasmania’s eastern coastline and the valleys, forests and mountains of the east coast hinterland, from Orford in the south to St Helens in the north. You can easily access the Great Eastern Drive from Hobart or Launceston and spend anything from a couple of days to a week or more experiencing everything the region has to offer.

There’s far too much to see and do here to squeeze into a day trip, so make sure you give yourself time to explore, to adventure, to relax—to just stop and wander. Treat yourself to a weekend, a few days or longer to explore your favourite east coast moments—from visiting wineries and cellar doors, to tasting delicious local produce, visiting national parks, walking long white beaches, relaxing in the region’s fantastic accommodation and enjoying the Great Eastern Drive’s incredible range of visitor experiences. Or, take your time and embark on an unforgettable, extended Great Eastern Drive road trip, starting from the north or south.

To help plan your Great Eastern Drive experience, read our suggested itineraries, and check the following distances and driving times before you travel. Please note: the following driving times are approximate. Travel times can vary according to weather and road conditions and route selection.

DISTANCES AND DRIVING TIMES FROM HOBART

Distances and driving times from launceston, distances and driving times on the great eastern drive.

Distances and driving times sourced from: Discover Tasmania and Metric Conversions

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Tasmania Trails

Tasmania Maps

Get access to our private, curated Google Maps for Tasmania. 

We’re making your self-drive Tasmania holiday easier with our private Google Maps Locations for Tasmania. Get our secret spots, recommended road trips and tailored travel trails in your pocket, with just a few clicks.

√ Wineries Map

√ Gin Distilleries Map

√ Whiskey Distilleries Map

√ Craft breweries Map

√ Maps for all of our travel trails – coming soon

Tasmania Wineries Map

Easy to access straight from your phone.

All you need is a Gmail account. Make sure you’re logged in to it on your device when you download our map.

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No need to research or pin our recommendations!

We’ve put hours into building these Google Maps so you don’t have to. Spend your time traveling Tasmania instead.

Tasmania Maps free updates

Free in-App updates when we find new destinations

We live in Tasmania and love traveling the island. Whenever we find new destinations, you will too!

What else is included?

A link to our private google maps locations for the trail or map of your choice., choose a map that's right for you - our maps are built around tasmania's best travel trails, and our favourite destinations & secret spots., works on any device that supports google maps., easy instructions on how to access our private maps from any device that supports google maps., unlimited access - use our maps on multiple tassie holidays or trips..

Tasmania wineries private google map

A Tasmania Map for every Trailblazer

Curated travel trails.

Tasmania Wineries Map Ad

Tasmania Wineries Map

108+ tasmanian wineries, in your pocket.

Tasmania Whiskey Distilleries Map

Tasmania Whiskey Distilleries Map

30+ tassie whiskey distilleries, in your pocket.

Tasmania Gin Distillery Map

Tasmania Gin Distilleries Map

42 tasmanian gin distilleries, in your pocket.

Tasmania Distilleries map

Tasmania Distillery Trail

50+ tasmanian whiskey & gin distilleries, in your pocket.

Tasmania Festivals and events map

Tasmania Cultural Trails

Tasmania's best festivals & annual events, in your pocket.

Tasmania Breweries Map

Tasmania Breweries Map

50+ breweries, brewpubs & tap houses, in your pocket, tasmania travel itineraries.

10 Day Tasmania Travel Itinerary Map

10 Day Tasmania Travel Itinerary

A 10-day wild tasmanian road trip adventure, in your pocket.

Tasmania travel maps

We’ve got your travel style covered

There’s a map for every trailblazer.

Culinary trails - Food, wine, whiskey, beer, & gin.

Nature trails - perfect for the wildlife lover., adventure trails - self guided walking itineraries., culture trails - art, history & festivals., luxury trails - escape the ordinary kinda stuff..

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More From Forbes

Google announces new features for travel.

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Google has announced several new features for Google Maps and Google Search aimed at helping people find less carbon-intensive ways of traveling and commuting.

One of the key additions is a new EV filter on google.com/travel, enabling users to locate hotels that offer onsite EV charging facilities. Additionally, numerous updates have been made on Maps to facilitate the discovery of charging stations.

When planning a trip, users will now have access to suggested charging stops, forecasted energy consumption, and more.

Google Map EV Charger Stations Updates

Furthermore, in addition to the EV updates, Google Maps will now assist users in finding lower-carbon travel alternatives.

Highlights from Googles Press Release: More sustainable ways to commute & travel:

  • Driving alternatives in Google Maps: When people look up driving directions, we’ll soon show a public transit or a walking suggestion next to driving routes, if travel times are comparable and practical (coming to 15+ cities).
  • Trains & buses in Google Search: You can now see train schedules & ticket prices directly in Search, for rail travel in 38 countries around the world (including the US), as well as long-distance buses in 15 countries. This is an expansion of an existing feature.
  • Train suggestions on Google Flights: In the months ahead, when you’re on Google Flights and there’s a reasonable rail alternative, you’ll see train route suggestions in the flight search results. This builds on similar suggestions we already show in Google Search for flight queries.
  • Travel Impact Model: You can already see estimated emissions in Google Flights, powered by our Travel Impact Model methodology. Now, estimates from the Travel Impact Model are also available through a developer API , a Google Sheets extension and a calculator on the TIM website .

Electric vehicles:

  • Google Maps (all features coming soon):
  • EV Charging Station Pins: We’ll highlight nearby EV charging stations for in-car Maps, with information about station availability and charging speeds.
  • AI-powered summaries for EV charging stations: AI summaries from user reviews will better help users pinpoint charging stations.
  • Multi-waypoint EV trip planning: When users create a multi-stop trip, in-car Maps will suggest required charging stops.
  • Google Search - Hotels:
  • You can use the new EV filter on google.com/travel to find hotels that offer on-site EV charging. This is already live.

Bitcoin Suddenly Braced For A 35 Trillion Halving Price Earthquake

New google play biometrics warning issued to all android users, first images of helldivers 2 s illuminate alien enemies emerge.

Geoff Whitmore

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Mount Ruang Erupts in Indonesia, Spewing Lava Thousands of Feet Into the Sky

Hundreds of earthquakes were detected in the weeks preceding the eruption of the volcano in North Sulawesi province. Hundreds of people were evacuated.

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By Christine Hauser

Mount Ruang, a volcano in Indonesia, erupted on Tuesday, spewing fiery lava and ash thousands of feet into the night sky and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of people in the North Sulawesi province, according to the authorities and local news reports.

The volcano erupted at about 7:19 p.m. local time, Antara, the national news agency, reported. The country’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency said on Wednesday that more than 800 people in nearby villages were displaced by the eruption, many using ferries and taking shelter in churches and community centers.

A large cloud of ashes rises from a volcano into the clouds, illuminated by the orange flames from the lava. The light is reflected on the waters.

The authorities said supplies such as mats, blankets, cleaning materials, and tents were needed, and that more shelters might be opening for people fleeing the volcano.

Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago nation. It is spread across what is known as the Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates clash under the surface of the Pacific Ocean and spawn earthquakes and eruptions from volcanoes.

Mount Ruang is a stratovolcano , or a steep, conical volcano that has built up over years in layers from explosive eruptions of lava, rock fragments, ash and other properties.

“It is in a part of the world where there are a lot of active volcanoes,” said Dr. Tracy K.P. Gregg , who chairs the geology department at the University at Buffalo.

Its last major eruption was in 2002, when the column of lava and ash that it spewed reached up to 17 miles, Dr. Gregg said.

She said the volcano in 2002 measured 4, a “large” volcano on the Volcanic Explosivity Index, a scale used to measure the strength of an eruption by looking at several factors, such as duration, ash volume and plume height. Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines in 1991 measured 6 on the index. Mount St. Helens in the United States in 1980 measured 5.

“So it is a little bit smaller than that,” she said of Mount Ruang. Right now, it is not as violent as the previous eruption, she added, but the volcano cannot be fully assessed while it is in progress.

More than 300 volcanic earthquakes were detected over a period of at least two weeks preceding the eruption of Mount Ruang.

It is not immediately clear why the volcano erupted when it did. “Every volcano has its own personality,” she said.

In the past few years, several volcanoes in Indonesia have erupted. In December, 2023, the bodies of 11 hikers were found on the slopes of Mount Marapi on the island of Sumatra, after an eruption that spewed an ash column of nearly 3,000 meters — about 10,000 feet high.

In December 2022, more than 1,900 people were evacuated from the area surrounding Mount Semeru as it erupted. In an eruption there the previous December , more than 50 people were killed and hundreds more were injured.

Christine Hauser is a reporter, covering national and foreign news. Her previous jobs in the newsroom include stints in Business covering financial markets and on the Metro desk in the police bureau. More about Christine Hauser

IMAGES

  1. Travel Times

    tasmania travel times map

  2. Tasmania Driving Times and Distances for Cars and Campervans

    tasmania travel times map

  3. Tasmania travel map

    tasmania travel times map

  4. The Ultimate 21 day itinerary around beautiful Tasmania

    tasmania travel times map

  5. A Superb 14 day Tasmania Itinerary (Ultimate Explorer Guide)

    tasmania travel times map

  6. Tasmania Map Travel Times

    tasmania travel times map

COMMENTS

  1. Maps and Travel Times

    Tourism, Tasmania Visitor Information Network, Information Centres. Our 20 Visitor Centres across Tasmania specialise in personalised itinerary planning, booking accommodation, transport and tours and carry a wide range of free information ... Maps and Travel Times. MAPS. Tasmania's North-West and West Coasts. Tasmania's North and East ...

  2. Tasmania Driving Times and Distances for Cars and Campervans

    The Launceston to Cradle Mountain driving time is 2 hours by car (via Sheffield), and around 2 hours 30 minutes if you're driving a campervan or motorhome. The distance between Launceston and Cradle Mountain is 140km (87 miles). The Bass Highway from Launceston to Christmas Hills is one of the best roads in Tasmania.

  3. Drive & travel times and distance

    Because wildlife is so abundant, native animals often wander onto the road, particularly between dusk and dawn. Please slow down and take extra care, and avoid driving at these times. Find out more information about driving in Tasmania here. Before heading out on a road trip, here's a guide to distances and drive times around Tasmania.

  4. Lap of Tasmania Road Trip Map

    The mountainous terrain and stunning sights mean you need to allow more time to cover the same distance compared to mainland Australia. Our Tasmania Touring Map is a good place to start planning your road trip itinerary. For the perfect, relaxing road trip we recommend trying to keep your time on the road to around 100-200km per day.

  5. The Best Tasmania Itinerary (+ Tasmania Road Trip Map)

    2 Tasmania Itinerary + Map. 2.1 Hobart. 2.2 Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula. 2.3 Freycinet National Park - Wineglass Bay. 2.4 Bay of Fires. 2.5 Launceston. 2.6 Cradle Mountain National Park. 3 Getting to Tasmania. 4 Getting Around Tasmania (+Renting a Car in Tasmania)

  6. Map of Tasmania

    Driving Times in Tasmania. Driving Times from Hobart Hobart to Launceston Via Midlands - A1 - 2 hours, 20 minutes. It is worth leaving the A1 to visit the towns of Oatlands and Ross for a touch of history. At Perth, look for the signs to Launceston Airport and Evandale. Evandale is a fine example of a Tasmanian Colonial township.

  7. How to Plan Your Tasmania Itinerary [Road Trip Guide]

    This post is designed to help you plan the perfect Tasmania itinerary for your road trip. Navigate this post with this clickable table of contents: Road Map of This Post. 🏙️ Day 1 - Hobart. 🌊 Day 2 - Freycinet National Park. 🔥 Day 3 - Bay of Fires. 🟣 Day 4 - Lavender Fields. ⛰️ Day 5 - Cradle Mountain. ⛵ Day 6 ...

  8. Tasmania Road Trip Planner : How To Plan A Trip To Tasmania

    These itineraries are your personal road trip planner Tasmania. 4-5 Day Tasmania Itinerary with options for a 3 day trip or just a weekend. 7 Day Tasmania Itinerary with options for 6 - 8 days. 10 Day Tasmania Itinerary with options for 9 days. 14 Day Tasmania Itinerary with options for 12 - 21 days.

  9. Tasmania map & highlights

    Places to visit in Tasmania with maps and itineraries to help you make the most of your time in Tasmania. See all of our best places to visit in Tasmania with our responsible travel guide. ... Sample travel times. Coming from Australia to Tasmania: Melbourne - Devonport: 9-11 hrs by ferry Sydney - Hobart: 2 hrs by air Around Tassie ...

  10. Tasmania Travel Guide: Road Trips, Attractions & Accommodation

    Tasmania is an island off the south east coast of Australia. One of the states of Australia, it offers a lot of variety and is quite different to the rest of the country, yet easy to reach and fun to explore. With a population of just over half million, it's also sparsely populated and it's crazy easy to find a gorgeous beach or slice of ...

  11. PDF Approximate Travelling Times and Route Numbers

    APPROXIMATE TRAVELLING TIMES AND ROUTE NUMBERS BETWEEN DESTINATIONS A 2 A 5 A 7 A 9 A 4 A 8 A 10 A 3 A 3 A 2 A 6 B61 A 3 B34 A 5 A 10 A 10 B23 B13 B14 B21 B51 C249 ... www.tasmap.tas.gov.au. Title: Travel_Times Created Date:

  12. Map of Tasmania

    Map of Tasmania. Explore Tasmania with our interactive map. Simply click on the Map below to visit each of the regions of Tasmania. We have included some of the popular destinations to give you give you an idea of where they are located in the state. If you want to see more maps use the navigation panel on the right hand side of this page to ...

  13. Tasmania Road Trip Map

    Open full screen to view more. This map was created by a user. Learn how to create your own. Tasmania Road Trip Map.

  14. Tassie Road Planner

    The Tassie Road Planner is designed to assist you in planning a journey within Tasmania. Given an origin and destination, the Road Planner will tell you how to get there, and even draw a map! Instructions. Choose the departure point for your journey (use the non-Java version if you have difficulties).

  15. Your Essential Tasmania Travel Guide: Start the Journey!

    This essential travel guide will help you navigate everything from climate and weather to accommodation options and transportation choices. You'll also discover popular tourist attractions, shopping destinations, outdoor activities, nightlife hotspots, and useful safety tips as you explore what Tasmania offers.

  16. 65 Best Things to Do in Tasmania For First-Timers (+Map)

    Some stand-out activities and attractions on this iconic Tasmanian island include the Fluted Cape walk, the Mars Bluff archway, the Neck Lookout, the world-renowned Bruny Island cruise and the rare chance to spot an albino wallaby! Book: Bruny Island from Hobart. 9. Climb "The Nut" in Stanley.

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

    10 reasons to visit 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!

  18. Guide To Tasmania, Australia: Time, Weather, Maps, And More

    Guide To Tasmania, Australia: Time, Weather, Maps, And More. Tasmania, Australia, is one of the world's most unique and captivating destinations. Located off the southern coast of mainland Australia, Tasmania is an island state that offers visitors an incredible array of attractions, activities, and experiences. ... Take out travel insurance ...

  19. Tasmania travel map

    Description: This map shows cities, towns, roads, national parks, visitor centres and airports in Tasmania.

  20. Travel times

    20 minutes. From St Helens to Binalong Bay. 11 km/7 mi. 15 minutes. From St Helens to Pyengana. 27 km/17 mi. 25 minutes. Distances and driving times sourced from: Discover Tasmania and Metric Conversions.

  21. Tasmania travel guide

    Tasmania travel guide. It might look small on the map, but as our Tasmania travel guide explains, 'Tassie' feels vast once you get there. Here are splendid mountain ranges, a whopping 19 national parks, island idylls scattered around the coastline like emeralds and pearls, and deep rainforest. There are few places in the world where the ...

  22. Map of Tasmania

    This map was created by a user. Learn how to create your own. 35 of the best places to visit in Tasmania. Plan your Tasmanian holiday itinerary and see the best of the Island State.

  23. Travel Tasmania Map: Tasmania travel made easy

    Wine, Whiskey, Gin distillery maps and more. Travel Tasmania hassle free. Get our tailored, private Google Tasmania Map in your pocket. Wine, Whiskey, Gin distillery maps and more. Travel Tasmania hassle free. Getaway. North West. Cradle Mountain; ... Spend your time traveling Tasmania instead. Free in-App updates when we find new destinations.

  24. Google Announces New Features For Travel

    Driving alternatives in Google Maps: When people look up driving directions, we'll soon show a public transit or a walking suggestion next to driving routes, if travel times are comparable and ...

  25. Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse

    If you missed out on Monday's total solar eclipse, which dazzled viewers in places like Burlington, Vt., you'll have the chance to see another one starting in 2026 — but you may need a passport.

  26. Mount Ruang Volcano Erupts in Indonesia, Forcing ...

    The volcano erupted at about 7:19 p.m. local time, Antara, the national news agency, reported. The country's National Disaster Mitigation Agency said on Wednesday that more than 800 people in ...