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

Discover the best things to do in Tasmania in this ultimate travel guide for first-time visitors! Explore iconic attractions like Cradle Mountain & hidden gems around Hobart, Launceston, Devonport & beyond!

Tasmania (Lutruwita) is Australia’s island state and is home to incredible UNESCO World Heritage wilderness areas and plenty of unique wildlife, including the famous Tasmanian devil. If it’s your first time in Tasmania, you’ll be blown away by the untouched beaches, dramatic coastlines, and the many historical landmarks like the renowned Port Arthur.

We spent several months exploring almost every inch of this incredible island in our campervan. Drawing from our experience, I’ve written this comprehensive travel guide revealing the best things to do in Tasmania for your first visit! Furthermore, at the bottom, you’ll also find a useful attractions map & info on where to stay, booking tips and what to pack!

3. Climb Mount Amos For Sunrise

Are you looking for the most incredible sunset viewpoint in Tasmania? Mount Amos is the answer!

Mount Amos is a granite peak on the Hazards Mountain Range and one of the best walks in Freycinet Peninsula overlooking the iconic Wineglass Bay. The climb up is a little steep. However, let me tell you that the views are absolutely worth it!

Actually, I'd say that a sunrise hike up to Mount Amos was my favourite thing to do in Tasmania!

9. Climb "The Nut" in Stanley

Stanley is a historic town situated at the base of “The Nut”, the remains of an ancient volcanic plug. Climbing this strange geological phenomenon is one of the most unique things to do in Tasmania and a great reason to make a trip out to Stanley!

For those not too keen on taking the steep steps, jump on The Nut Chairlift, which only operates in the warmer months.

10. Explore the Tarkine Drive

The Tarkine, or Takanya, is Australia's largest temperate rainforest. It's a global treasure with abundant wildlife and rich biodiversity. If you've got the time on your next trip to Tasmania, then I highly recommend taking the scenic Tarkine Drive.

I've written a guide to the Tarkine drive, which covers all of the best things to see and do on the road with some hidden gems not to miss! This region is wild, resulting in fewer tourists and very little tourism infrastructure. Tread lightly, respect the rainforest and enjoy this magical place!

Tip: I recommend renting a car in Hobart, Launceston, or Devonport. I use DiscoverCars in Tasmania to compare rates across dealerships and this has worked out well for me in the past.

11. Visit Launceston

Launceston is Tasmania’s second-largest city and is commonly rated as one of the most liveable cities in Australia. Lonnie, as Taswegians call it, is a hub of history, culture, food and nature.

As with most of the quaint little cities of Tasmania, there are a lot of things to do, see and explore. This city also serves as a great hub for travellers looking to explore the region. Plenty of guided tours operate out of Lonnie and there are also many great, heritage-listed accommodation options.

15. Spot Tasmanian Devils

Australia, being a remote island in the Pacific, is home to some of the most unique animals in the world. You'd expect then that a remote island off an island would be home to even stranger creatures. And, you're right!

The Tasmanian Devil is the world's largest carnivorous marsupial and is found only in Tasmania. These little guys really live up to their name and are one of the feistiest creatures I've ever seen. Unfortunately, the Tasmanian Devil is endangered, with populations plummeting nearly 80% in the past 20 years due to the very serious Devil Facial Tumour Disease.

Unfortunately, I didn't spot one in the wild after months of hiking in and exploring Tasmania. With that said, you could get lucky. Apparently, some of the best places to spot them are on Maria Island and the Tarkine Rainforest.

Otherwise, check out Devils@Cradle (below), to see a Devil on your visit to Cradle Mountain. This is a sanctuary protecting Devils where you can learn about the conservation efforts helping to protect them.

16. Derby's Floating Sauna

Derby's Floating Sauna is a luxury experience borrowing a page from our Scandinavian friends.

Situated on the calm waters of Lake Derby, this sauna in the heart of a former mining town is the perfect experience during a quick stopover on the way to the East Coast.

The floating sauna has taken off on Instagram as one of the best things to do in Tasmania during the colder months. Warm up in the sauna then take a cold plunge in the fresh waters, if you're game!

There are also loads of mountain bike trails in this region, another reason why Derby is worth a visit!

17. Explore the Tasman Peninsula

The Tasman Peninsula is just a short 70-minute drive from Hobart and is well known for its dramatic coastal landscapes and rich convict history.

I've recommended the Tasman Peninsula in this Tasmanian travel guide as there are just so many activities and things to do in this part of the state.

Whether it be one of Tasmania's best multi-day hikes, a visit to Port Arthur's Historic Site or a Tasman Island Boat Cruise, you simply won't regret visiting this incredible region.

19. Jump Aboard The Tasmanian Wilderness Railway

Back over to the West Coast, the West Coast Wilderness railway is a Tasmanian attraction that is well-regarded as one of Tassie's icons.

This historic rail line journeys through deep Tasmanian wilderness and allows visitors to experience the rugged, yet undeniably beautiful terrain on board a historic steam train.

There are several options to take, undeniably one of the best is the “Rack and Gorge” line departing from Queenstown and running through to the incredible King River Gorge and the isolated station in Dubbil Barril.

This is one of the most scenic trips and takes roughly 4 hours.

20. Cruise at Wineglass Bay

Undeniably, one of the most iconic activities and experiences in Freycinet National Park is the incredible Wineglass Bay cruise by Pennicott Wilderness Journeys. This trip is one of the classiest ways to experience the tranquil waters of Wineglass Bay and runs for approximately 4 hours.

Trips depart from Coles Bay and you’ll even get a ploughman’s-style lunch included. A bay cruise offers one of the best opportunities to spot abundant wildlife including sea birds, dolphins, seals and even penguins and whales.

21. Little Blue Lake

Little Blue Lake is quickly becoming a popular pit stop among those on a Tassie road trip. That’s because Little Blue Lake is easily accessed on the road towards the East Coast of Tasmania Mount William National Park.

Little Blue Lake is a scenic pit stop for photos and to admire the aquatic remnants of Tasmania’s alluvial tin mining past. The water colour here is quite mind-blowingly blue, which makes for some pretty great photos.

22. Hike the Three Capes Track

Besides the Overland Track, The Three Capes Track is perhaps Tasmania’s most popular multi-day hike. If you're looking for a Tasmania activity in the great outdoors, then the Three Capes is a great option, especially for those who aren't too used to multi-day hiking. That's because it's a great entry-level hike without too much elevation.

The track features gentle coves, scenic heathlands, lush forests and of course, spanning views of the most remarkable coastal vistas in the country.

Usually, walkers need to register and pay for this hike as the normal route requires a boat transfer and hut accommodation. However, if you're like me and prefer to do things independently, then check out my guide above on how to do it with just a regular National Parks Pass.

23. Witness the Aurora Australis

Did you know that Tasmania is one of the best places in Australia to witness the Southern Lights or Aurora Australis?

This phenomenon occurs in Tasmania due to its low latitude, offering a chance to see charged solar wind particles bombard the atmosphere. Admittedly, the Aurora Australis isn't as magnificent as the famed "Northern Lights" like you might see in Norway or Iceland.

However, I'd say that if you're making a trip to Tasmania in the Autumn or Winter months, then I'd definitely recommend adding it to your list of things to do.

The Southern Lights are a little unpredictable. With that said, this Facebook Group is awesome and will definitely help your mission.

24. Browse the Famous Salamanca Markets

Back to Hobart now and the next featured activity in this Tasmanian travel guide is the world-famous Salamanca Markets.

These markets are held every Saturday morning at Salamanca Place near Hobart Harbour. It brings together artists, craftsmen, food stalls, farmers and many Tasmanian small business owners to sell their unique wares and famous street foods.

If you happen to find yourself in Hobart on a weekend, make sure you save some time for the Salamanca Markets, one of the best things to do in Tasmania for visitors looking to pick up a meaningful souvenir.

26. Explore The Hartz Mountains

Standing at 1253 metres, Hartz Peak is the tallest point on the Hartz Mountain range in southern Tasmania. However, this range is one of the most accessible 1,000 metre+ ranges in Tasmania due to the well-maintained road from Geeveston.

A visit to the Hartz Mountains National Park is a must-do for those checking out the South, especially if you want a glimpse of alpine Tasmania without much effort.

27. Walk Through the Cataract Gorge

The standout highlight in Launceston is its famed Cataract Gorge. If you're planning a visit to Tasmania's second-largest city, then make sure you add this one to your list of things to do and see.

This beautiful river and gorge is the number one attraction in Launceston and features hiking trails, the world’s longest single-span chairlift and a riverside swimming pool.

There are also daily cruises operating down the gorge which is great if you're short on time!

28. Spot a Rare Tassie Quoll

Here's one you might not have seen in a Tasmania travel guide before. Due to its isolated nature, Tasmania is a hotspot for rare creatures found nowhere else in the world.

One of the many elusive marsupials is the Eastern Spotted Quoll. Unfortunately, these little guys have become very rare in mainland Australia and Tasmania is now one of their final places of refuge.

Spotting a quoll is a fairly difficult task as they are nocturnal. We were lucky enough to spot the sleepy bugger below on the way out to Dip Falls but they are said to roam in most forests and National Parks in Tasmania.

30. Discover Some of the World's Tallest Trees

For a little island, Tasmania does things BIG. Tassie is home to Australia's tallest trees and if you're planning to hit some of the many hiking trails, you're bound to stumble upon a few sleeping giants.

The best places to see large trees in Tasmania are:

• The Styx Tall Trees Reserve
• Dip Falls Reserve
• Evercreech State Reserve
• The Tarkine

31. Venture to the Styx Tall Trees Reserve

If seeing Australia's tallest trees is on your list of fun things to do in Tasmania, then one of the best places to do so is the Styx Tall Trees Reserve. You'll find this small protected pocket isolated in a large logging region.

The road is a little tricky but manageable by most cars in good weather. Due to the Styx's close proximity to Mount Field National Park, it's a great idea to head here on a quick return detour.

32. Drive the 99 Bends Road to Queenstown

It’s no secret that Tasmania has some of Australia’s most scenic roads, from epic mountain passes to unmatched coastal routes.

However, there is one particular spot on the West Coast that might just take the cake as Tassie’s most mind-blowingly beautiful road. It's known as the 99 Bends, a curvy, winding road of perfect tarmac that snakes its way over the mountains above Queenstown.

If you're heading out to the Far West, check out my guide to finding the 99 Bends, or watch my video below for some inspiration.

33. Explore Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Staying on the West Coast, for now, make sure you venture through the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park! You can get here via the scenic road between Lake St Clair National Park and Queenstown.

Highlights in this wild National Park include:

• Nelson Falls
• Lake Burbury
• Frenchman's Cap
• Donaghy's Hill

34. Visit the Tasmanian Central Plateau

Looking for travel inspiration and ideas to get off the beaten path in Tasmania? Consider adding a road trip through the Central Plateau to your list of things to see and do in Tasmania.

The Central Plateau is a remote conservation area that is the largest space of alpine land in Tasmania. There's a lot to do and see here, but don't expect any decent phone reception or even to see many people– perfect if you're looking to go off-grid for a while.

One of my favourite camping spots in the Central Plateau is Brady's Lake, a quaint little spot only really known for fishing.

Also, here's a link to a good map with some highlights for this often-overlooked region of Tasmania if you're planning a road trip.

35. Hike Around Maria Island

Maria Island has already been featured in this travel guide to the best things to see and do in Tasmania. However, I think the Maria Island Circuit deserves a mention of its own.

This 2-3 day circuit loop encompasses the best highlights of the island and is in my opinion, the absolute best way to take in this world-class destination. Alternatively, you can also rent a bike and ride around the island.

If you're not too keen on walking the whole island, there are plenty of short walks around the main town of Darlington too!

36. Freycinet Peninsula Circuit & Freycinet National Park

If I had to pick one multi-day coastal hike in Tasmania it'd have to be the incredible Freycinet Peninsula Circuit.

Hiking the Freycinet Peninsula Circuit is by far the best way to experience the mind-bending beauty of Tasmania’s Freycinet National Park.

From stints across white, sandy beaches to steep climbs up rocky mountain summits, consider dedicating a bit of time to exploring this unique Tasmanian icon properly!

38. The Western Wilds

After spending so much time travelling over the past few years, I've realised that sometimes, one of the best things to do, especially in Tasmania, is just to rent a car and drive– get off the beaten path.

One of the best regions to do this is in the Western Wilds. Head to the mining town of Tullah, explore the Tarkine and find yourself a secluded spot by Lake Rosebury. If you find some great spots for yourself, let others know in the comments below or share links to your social photos!

39. Boat Harbour

If you're after beautiful, white-sand beaches and beautiful, calm turquoise waters but would rather skip on the crowds, then check out Boat Harbour in the northern part of Tasmania.

Boat Harbour is one of my favourite beaches in Tassie and I consider this beautiful coastal spot one of the best hidden gems in the state!

40. The Edge of the World Lookout

The Edge of the World is a lookout spot with a Herculean name, found on the far-reaching end of Tasmania's west coast.

The Edge of the World is a fitting name for the rugged region of Tasmania’s desolate northwest. Here, visitors will find nothing but a small plaque separating them from the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean.

This spot is worth adding to your own list of things to do in Tasmania, especially if you're already planning a road trip to the Tarkine or the West Coast.

42. Hastings Caves & Thermal Springs

On a visit to Tasmania's deep south, make sure to add the Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs to your list of places to visit. This is probably the primary attraction in the region and also one of Tassie's largest cave systems.

You'll need to book a tour to enter the cave but I'd highly recommend it! The tour also gives visitors access to the natural thermal springs which was a big deal breaker for us during the cold Tassie Winter visit!

43. Iron Blow Lookout

The Iron Blow lookout is a cantilevered lookout that stretches roughly 10 metres over a large open mining cut known as the Iron Blow, near Gormanston in Tasmania's west.

Below, you’ll find a deep, metal-rich pool of water in a surrounding, otherworldly landscape. You can get here by driving the epic 99 bends road out of Queenstown in the Western Wilds.

This is another lookout attraction that doesn't often make the rounds but a spot that I thought was really underrated and worth visiting if you're driving around Tasmania.

44. Leven Canyon

Are you looking for one of the most bang-for-time lookout hikes in Tasmania? The Leven Canyon lookout is a short circuit loop in the northern end of the state.

The metal viewpoint overlooks the Leven Canyon, a jurassic landscape with a horseshoe bend that is great for photos.

45. Camp at Lake Mcintosh

After spending close to four months driving around Tasmania in our self-converted van, I'd say we have a pretty good idea about the epic camping spots on offer!

One of the standout highlights is a free camping spot beside Lake McIntosh, near the Tarkine township of Tullah. There are multiple spots to pull up, enjoy a campfire and admire the views of the surrounding granite peaks. Best of all, there's almost always never anyone else around!

46. Check out Evercreech State Reserve

Located in the far North East is the remote forest reserve known as Evercreech State Reserve.

This is another great free camping spot adjacent to a beautiful temperate rainforest creek, complete with a waterfall and a short circuit loop beneath the world's tallest White Gums. We camped here for a night in our van and had the place all to ourselves!

Tip: Be careful on the drive in. The road is bumpy and can get boggy after heavy rain! Our large van made it so you don't need a 4WD.

47. Remarkable Cave

Stretching all the way back over to the Tasman Peninsula is the newly reconstructed viewpoint for the Remarkable Cave.

This pristine sea cave is one of the best sandstone sea caves in Tasmania. The cliff has been hollowed over millions of years of heavy sea pounding and on a day with a big surge, expect to get wet!

You'll find this one conveniently close by to other attractions including the Port Arthur Historic Site, the Cape Raoul Track and the Mount Brown Track.

48. Stay a Night on Picnic Island

Picnic Island is a small private isle just off Coles Bay near Freycinet National Park. If you've been following my travels for a while, you'll know that I'm not usually the type to go for luxury accommodation. However, when the owner invited us for a night's stay on this incredible off-grid island paradise, I couldn't refuse!

Staying on Picnic Island was one of the most magical experiences we've had in Tasmania and although it is a little bit pricey, the memories are well worth it!

49. Visit Apsley Gorge National Park

An often overlooked National Park, Apsley Gorge is a beautiful spot, conveniently located next to Bicheno.

While you won't find that many hiking trails in this park, the Apsley Gorge and River circuit is definitely one to add to the list. There are scenic gorge lookouts and a big swimming hole to cool down in.

This is considered an off-the-beaten-path location that isn't found on many travel guides, which is why it's often missed by first-timers looking to travel in Tasmania.

50. Give a Helping Hand to Bob Brown

Tasmania's history is unequivocally unique in that it is rifled with a dark and definitive divide between activists and industry. Tassie's unique location and resources have meant that its economy has relied on logging and mining for centuries.

Unfortunately, this has led to undeniably tragic environmental loss and contamination over the years. The Bob Brown Foundation is a leading organisation attempting to restore the natural balance and protect world treasures like the Tarkine Rainforest from further permanent loss.

If you're visiting Tasmania and looking for something to do that contributes to the cause, reach out to the foundation. Many efforts have long passed the stage of petitions and lobbying and require boots-on-the-ground action.

52. Tessellated Pavement

While you will find some iconic 19th-century cobblestone streets in Hobart, the Tessellated Pavement actually refers to a natural, geological phenomenon found on the Tasman Peninsula near Eaglehawk Neck.

This geometric pattern pictured below is found in only a few places on Earth. It's caused by rare conditions that caused the rocks to fracture and then erode by sea waves to form a tile-like pattern. This Tasmania attraction is worth a visit as it's only a quick stop-over and a short walk from the car park.

Tip: visit at low tide for the best experience. During high tide, many of the pools are below the surface.

53. Explore the Huon Valley

The Huon Valley is Tasmania's prized produce region beginning just 30 minutes from Hobart and extending to the southernmost tip in Australia.

The region is rich in history and culinary delights. Taste local honey and famous Tasmanian Pinot Noir at the many markets and farm-to-table restaurants.

54. Visit Shipstern Bluff

The Shipstern Bluff is a world-famous big-wave surf break found on the southern coast of the Tasman Peninsula. While my photo below certainly doesn't do it justice, this break is actually considered one of the heaviest waves in the world.

Every year, when conditions are just right, dozens of the world's best big-wave surfers fly to Tasmania to compete in the Red Bull Cape Fear competition.

If you're travelling in Tasmania between March and July, keep an ear out, as the competition is often called within a week's notice!

55. Learn About Raptors at the Raptor Refuge

Another great Tasmania attraction for wildlife lovers is the Raptor Refuge near the small town of Kettering, just south of Hobart, near Snug Falls.

This inspiring refuge is dedicated to caring and protecting Tasmania’s large birds of prey. There's an education centre here with informative tours to learn about Tassie's raptors and what the refuge is doing to protect them.

56. Go Glamping

Have you ever tried glamping? New accommodations are always being explored and this one is a fresh new accommodation movement that appeals to a hybrid of outdoor/luxury travel.

One of the best glamping setups in the country can be found at Huon Valley Glamping. If you're looking for a unique and fun thing to do in Tasmania, definitely check them out!

57. Stay at Old Macs Farm

Another unique attraction and place to stay in Tasmania is Old Macs, located just a few minutes' drive out of Launceston. This one is more suited to those travelling to Tasmania in a caravan or camper, as they offer excellent sites on their huge farm!

Old Macs have a variety of activities that are great for families, including animal petting, restaurants and a scenic lake to walk around.

58. Go on a Cascade Brewery Tour

Did you know that Hobart is home to Australia's oldest brewery? The Cascade Brewery has been producing beer since 1832. It was first established by Peter Degraves when Hobart had 55 licensed pubs for a population of just 10,000!

It's pretty clear that they were successful and still continue to attract thousands of visitors to their working brewery every year.

59. Visit Gordon Dam

Visitors will find Gordon Dam, also known as the Gordon River Dam, found deep in South West Tasmania. The road out here is one of the most scenic in the country, and an excellent region to explore for hiking and generally just getting off-grid.

The Gordon Dam is an undeniably impressive curved arch dam with a controlled spillway across the Gordon River. It's quite impressive, and makes for great photos if you're willing to take the scenic drive out!

60. Go Whitewater Rafting on the King River

As you'd expect from one of Australia's adventure capitals, there's an abundance of epic whitewater rafting activities for adventure travellers in Tasmania.

One of the best-rated trips runs on the Grade-4 King River on Tassie's West Coast from Queenstown.

61. Spot a Wild Platypus

The final wildlife-related attraction in this Tasmania travel guide is the unique platypus, native to the island.

I grew up in Australia, spending a lot of time in the outdoors and I've never seen as many platypuses as I did travelling in Tasmania. The ones you'll find here are also much larger and fluffier than those in the rest of Australia due to the cold conditions.

Some of the best places to spot these furry, duck-billed, egg-laying marsupials is at Duckhole Lake, Lake Chrisholm and the local park in Geeveston.

62. Go on a Ghost Tour

Even when visiting during daylight hours, there's an undeniably eerie feeling within the walls of the Port Arthur Historic Site. Learning about its dark past and the intimate stories of personal convict experiences is remarkably interesting yet unsettling.

For believers of the paranormal, one of the spookiest things to do in Tasmania is to join in on an evening ghost tour of the premises. This is a guided tour of the premises at night, offering visitors a unique experience to say the least!

65. Narawntapu National Park

Often hailed as Tasmania's wildlife haven, Narawntapu National Park stretches across the northern coast between Port Sorell and the Tamar River spanning tranquil beaches, grasslands, and wetlands areas.

Many have called this the Serengeti of Tasmania since its a paradise for wildlife lovers, providing some of the best opportunities to observe Tasmanian devils, forester kangaroos, wombats, and a plethora of bird species in their natural habitat.

How to Get to Tasmania

Before you get out and explore all the Tasmania attractions and highlights, you might be interested to know how to actually get here! There are two options for getting to Tasmania, book a flight, or take the Spirit of Tasmania Ferry from Melbourne Harbour.

1. The Spirit of Tasmania

This is Tasmania's very own car-ferry transport crossing the Bass Strait between Melbourne and Devonport, twice daily. The trip takes roughly 9-11 hours and there are options for booking morning (day sails) and evening (overnight) trips.

One thing that I noticed is that seats and car spots fill up very quickly and it's a good idea to book at least a few weeks in advance.

Unfortunately, this option often ends up being more expensive than just flying in. However, the ability to take your own car across is appealing since car rentals in Tasmania is notoriously expensive.

2. Fly to Hobart or Launceston

There are several airports to fly into domestically from within Australia. Launceston and Hobart are the two largest airports.

Consequently, if you're planning to tour around Tasmania, definitely check prices for both airports as Launceston is often cheaper. If flying internationally, your only option will be Hobart Airport but the international routes to Hobart are quite limited.

Getting Around in Tasmania

By far, the best way to get around in Tasmania to fully explore all the epic things to do on the Apple Isle is to do so in a car or campervan. That's because there are limited public transport options operating between major cities and remote attractions.

Usually, visitors without a vehicle will base themselves in either Hobart, Launceston, Burnie or the Huon Valley and book organised trips to see the different Tasmania highlights and attractions.

Rent a Car

Unfortunately, car rental prices in Tasmania are some of the most expensive I've seen in Australia. However, that doesn't mean you can't find a good deal. I recommend searching DiscoverCars which is agreat way to compare rates and availability across companies.

If it's a campervan you're after, consider these options:

• Spaceships Vans: Budget, backpacker-style campers. There's a depot in Hobart - the cheapest option.
• Jucy Vans - Another budget/backpacker option with a bit more variety to pick up and drop off in Melbourne.

Visiting the Tasmanian National Parks

Undeniably, Tasmania is most famous for its beautiful nature and wildlife and therefore you'd expect that the best things to do and see are found in the protected National Parks.

An important thing to note is that National Parks in Tasmania require a permit to enter. Therefore, you’ll need to purchase a parks pass online or at the many visitor centres. These passes are valid for entry to all of Tasmania’s parks and the receipt must be displayed in your vehicle when parking.

If you are spending a fair bit of time in Tassie, the annual pass or the Holiday Passes offer the best value.

National Parks Pass Cost:

• 24-hours: $44.75 per vehicle & $22.35 per person
• Holiday Passes – up to 2 months: $89.50 per vehicle up to 8 people
• Annual Pass all parks: $95.30 per vehicle (up to 8 people)

How Much Does it Cost to Travel Tasmania?

One of the most important thing when planning a trip is your budget. Therefore I've included this short Tasmania travel guide to my recommended/estimated costs for varying budgets.

Like most places in Australia, travel in Tasmania is relatively expensive but can also be done cheaply. Below are a few figures to help you understand what you're in for.

• Average Mid-Range Hotel: $100-$120
• Average Backpacker dorm: $35-$50
• Cost of a Meal in a Mid-range Restaurant: $16-$40
• Cost of Rental Car: $90-$250 per day

In saying this, if you've read my blog before, then you probably know that we like to travel fairly cheaply. Living in a van in Tasmania and sticking mostly to free, outdoor activities with the occasional splurge on adrenaline tours and experience was actually quite cheap.

We budgeted around $120 a week for groceries, $60 on fuel, $80 on camp-site fees (there are actually a lot of free sites) and about $140 a week on miscellaneous activities.

This $400 was for two of us living frugally but enjoyably and shows that budget travel in Tasmania can be done! In fact, some weeks we spent less than $200 when hiking and freedom camping!

When is the Best Time to Travel to Tasmania?

Defining the best time to visit Tasmania will highly depend on what kind of things you want to do.

However, the general consensus in most official and unofficial Tasmania travel guides is that the summer months between December and February are the best time to visit. This season brings less rain and overall much more enjoyable weather. Expect 25-30 degree summer days as a norm for much of the state.

Conversely, for hiking, I'd say that late Spring or early Autumn is actually a better time as the mountains will often be powdered with snow, producing more dramatic landscapes and tolerable conditions.

Winter in Tasmania is quite brutal (by Aussie standards) but undeniably beautiful. Temperatures drop far below zero in many parts of the state and rain and heavy wind is prevalent. Keep in mind that Tassie Winter tends to kick in later than the rest of Australia. Taswegians have told me that the coldest months usually fall in August and September, which is technically early spring!

Tasmania Travel Packing List

Wrapping up this Tasmania travel guide, here are a few recommendations for things to bring.

• Camera or GoPro - Read my recommended Travel camera gear list
• A Good Hardshell (waterproof jacket)
• Warm under layers
• Swimmers
• Travel towel
• Waterproof shoes or hiking boots
• Compact Tripod (for the Southern Lights)
• Merino wool socks
• Head torch
• Waterproof phone pouch
• Packing Cubes (for organisation)
• A Good Day Bag

More Top Tasmania Travel Guides

This comprehensive list comes from many months of exploring Tasmania and documenting my own adventures. I've also written comprehensively on many of the attractions featured on this list, which you'll find links to throughout.