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Where to Stay in Hobart: Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Hobart: Best Areas & Hotels

Olly Gaspar

By Olly Gaspar, full-time traveler for 7 years. I visit every place I write about & share real tips, photos, & advice from my trips.

Plan where to stay in Hobart, from the best areas to my recommended budget-friendly hostels, luxurious hotels, and everything in between.

Hobart, Australia’s southernmost capital, is often the first stop for visitors to Tasmania. Known for its stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and for having the cleanest air in the world, Hobart attracts nearly 2 million tourists each year!

When looking for a place to sleep, I recommend staying in the city centre or harbour for easy access to the waterfront, Salamanca Market, and day trips to MONA. Also, Battery Point offers charming heritage stays, while Sandy Bay provides a relaxed atmosphere near the beach.

Read more below to find the perfect accommodation for every budget!

Quicklist of Best Hotels & Unique Stays

Whether you're just starting off your Tassie journey, you're coming back to Hobart before flying out, or perhaps you're just here on a quick business trip (you'll be back), you can't go wrong with my top picks below.

Infographic for areas to stay in hobart
Map showing the best areas to stay in Hobart

Which Area to Stay in Hobart

Hobart is quite a small city by international and even Australian standards. Just over 200,000 people live here but the city attracts nearly 10 times that number of tourists every year!

But for a small city, there are some options in terms of which neighborhood to pick.

  • Hobart Waterfront (Constitution Dock): The historic heart centre of Hobart is down by the harbor, known as Constitution Dock. Hotels and restaurants line the waterfront and most attractions including Salamanca are within walking distance.
  • Hobart City (CBD): Hobart isn't that big. Staying in the city, just a few streets back from the waterfront is a great bet though if you'd like to find yourself close to shopping districts and more restaurants.
  • Battery Point: Immediately south of the CBD is Hobart's Battery Point. A short, 10-minute walk up the colonial-era steps from Salamanca and you'll find yourself surrounded by 19th-century sandstone and weatherboard cottages, some quaint parks, and some of the best restaurants in town.
  • Sandy Bay: Just a little further south of Hobart CBD is Sandy Bay, a waterfront suburb that is considered to be one of the most prestigious in the city. Staying in Sandy Bay is great if you're looking to spend more time in the many hotels or if you'd like to check out the two beaches (Nutgrove Beach and Long Beach), the large yacht marina, and many cafes.

To help you narrow down the best options, I’ve included 5 of the best luxury hotels in Hobart, 5 value hotels and guest apartments, as well as 5 of the best budget hostels below.

Luxury Hotels in Hobart

OptionAreaPrice
Hobart hotel, the grand chancellor luxury accommodationThe Grand ChancellorHobart Harbour$$$
The old woolstore apartment hotelThe Old WoolstoreHobart City$$$
Crowne plaza hobartCrowne Plaza Hobart City$$$
Romantic room at the moss hotelMossHobart Harbour$$$
Macq 01 hotelMacq 01Hobart Harbour$$$$

The Grand Chancellor

  • Area: Hobart Harbour
  • Best for: Couples or those on a work trip looking for a luxurious stay!

Centrally located on the waterfront overlooking Constitution Dock, the Grand Chancellor Hotel is one of the most prominent accommodation options in Hobart.

The hotel is a premium offering, where guests can work out at the in-house fitness centre or swim in the indoor pool overlooking Mount Wellington.

Furthermore, guests will find a bar and a contemporary restaurant overlooking the harbor serving delicious cocktails and meals.

Hobart hotel, the grand chancellor luxury accommodation

The Old Woolstore

  • Area: Hobart City
  • Best for: Couples and families exploring the city

The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel is a 4-star Hobart accommodation option with fully-serviced apartments in a very central location.

There is a restaurant, a bar, a gym, and even a business centre. In addition, each room has very comfortable beds and a spa bath that is a treat after exploring the city and surrounding walking tracks.

For couples or families looking for a comfortable base close to everything, don't go past the Old Woolstore.

The old woolstore apartments in hobart city, tasmania

Tip: Hobart is a great place to base yourself for your trip whilst exploring the epic things to do. From hiking Mount Wellington to taking a day trip to Bruny Island Hobart will keep you busy!

The Crowne Plaza

  • Area: Hobart City
  • Best for: Great for families and those needing disability access

I know that when a lot of people travel to Australia, they like to stick with the always-reliable Crowne Plaza. But, that's not the only reason I've included it on this list of where to stay in Hobart.

Firstly the Crowne is one of the best luxury accommodation options you'll find in town, and it's also centrally located close to almost everything.

As usual with the Crowne, breakfast is always the guests' favorite. Additionally, visitors will also get to enjoy a gym, restaurant, and bar.

Drone aerial view over crowne plaza in hobart city, tasmania at sunset.
Views over hobart from the top of mount wellington

Moss

  • Area: Hobart Harbour
  • Best for: Couples looking to be close to Salamanca Markets

Located just behind Salamanca Place is one of the most stylish and unique hotels in Hobart. The Moss offers rooms with incredible attention to detail and offers thoughtful touches of nature and Tasmanian heritage in each space.

While you don't get a pool or gym like some of the other luxury hotels in Hobart, the Moss is an elegant alternative for those celebrating an anniversary and looking to relax in cozy rooms close to bars, restaurants, and of course the market!

Book: Moss

Moss hotel room with views out into the greenery, hobart

Macq 01

  • Area: Hobart Harbour
  • Best for: Couples or groups spending a weekend in Hobart

Perhaps the most expensive and the most premium offering in town is the Macq 01 Hotel. Firstly, this luxury hotel in Hobart is one of the best on this list. Located on the waterfront, the Macq 01 offers an on-site restaurant, bar, and fitness centre and spectacular harbour views.

There are plenty of rooms to choose from, with offerings ranging from waterfront suites to harbor-view rooms. The interesting thing about Macq 01 is that each room is tied to a historical Tasmanian character.

So, your stay in Hobart will not only be premium, but you'll learn something too!

Book: Macq 01

Macq 01 hotel

Tip: If you're looking for a delicious meal head to the Drunken Admiral for a seafood meal! Be sure to book in advance as it can book out!

Sailing boat in hobart harbour, tasmania

Best Value Hotels in Hobart (Mid-Range)

OptionAreaPrice
The rivulet hotel in hobart tasmaniaThe RivuletSandy Bay$$$
Wrest point hotel hobartWrest PointSandy Bay$$
Sullivans cove apartmentsSullivans Cove ApartmentsBattery Point$$
Hobart city apartmentsHobart City ApartmentsHobart City$$$
Bay hotel apartmentsBay Hotel ApartmentsHobart City$

The Rivulet

  • Area: Sandy Bay
  • Best for: Heritage-listed boutique hotel close to cafes, serving the best breakfast in Hobart

The Rivulet is an awesome 19th-century, heritage-listed manor. It offers some of the best suites in Hobart without a ridiculous price tag. Rooms here are a little more expensive than some of the other great-value hotels in this section. However, I believe that the price is very good for what you get.

The Sandy Bay location is great, sitting opposite the Casino and the Derwent River. Also, the Kingborough playing fields are located next door and can even be accessed through the side gate.

Each room has everything you'd expect from a high-end offering. You just won't be paying the premium dollar!

Book: The Rivulet

The rivulet hotel in hobart tasmania

Wrest Point

  • Area: Sandy Bay
  • Best for: Those looking to have a private casino on-site with epic views

Wrest Point is a beautiful tower building on the waterfront of Sandy Bay which in reality, is a luxury offering that has rooms that are great value for money.

The Wrest Point has an in-house casino, indoor heated pool, sauna, gym, and several restaurants. Rooms offer uninterrupted views of Mount Wellington and the waterfront.

Wrest Point is easily one of the best places to stay in Hobart for those after a luxury, 4-star experience without paying a premium.

Book: Wrest Point

Wrest point hotel in hobart with harbour and mount wellington views, tasmania

Sullivans Cove Apartments

  • Area: Battery Point
  • Best for: Large groups or families wanting to be close to bars, cafes, and restaurants!

Sullivan's Cove Apartments has 5 different locations around Hobart Waterfront and Battery Point.

These condo hotels offer fully furnished, 5-star apartment rooms, often with a great view and always within walking distance of everything you'd want to experience in the city.

A great choice for those in a large group or family wanting to split the costs, furthermore allowing everyone to stay together instead of separate hotel rooms.

Sullivans cove apartments

Hobart City Apartments

  • Area: Hobart City
  • Best for: Excellent city location that is perfect for families or solo travelers wanting a central location

Visitors looking for where to stay in the city with modern furnishings at a great price, look no further.

Hobart City Apartments is centrally located in the CBD and within walking distance of Hobart Harbour and Salamanca Place.

These serviced apartments offer a modern appeal and are perfect for those on a quick business trip or for families who'd prefer to stay central.

Hobart city apartments, tasmania

Bay Hotel Apartments

  • Area: Hobart City
  • Best for: Singles, couples, or families looking for an affordable rate

Previously known as "Apartments at Woolmers", The Bay Hotel offers affordable apartment accommodation for singles, couples, and families at a very affordable rate.

The location is a little further south of the CBD in a quieter area. However, it's still within walking distance of the main shopping district and only a 13-minute walk to Salamanca Place.

Each apartment has everything you need including a kitchenette, cable TV, lounge space, and comfortable beds.

Bay hotel bedroom suite, tasmania

Best Budget Hostels & Backpacker Lodges in Hobart

OptionAreaPrice
Dorm room at narrara backpackersNarrara BackpackersHobart City$
Montacute boutique bunkhouseMontacute Boutique BunkhouseBattery Point$
Hobart central yha accomodationCentral YHAHobart City$
Shipwrights arms accomodationShipwrights ArmsBattery Point$$

Narrara Backpackers

  • Area: Hobart City (south)
  • Best for: Those looking to save money and be close to the city centre

One of the best budget hostels in Hobart is Narrara Backpackers. It's located in Hobart City and is only about an 11-minute walk to the centre.

It has one of the best-shared kitchen and lounge areas out of all of the hostels on this list. Moreover, there are also cheap dorm beds, private rooms, and even family rooms available.

Narrara backpackers hobart hostel accomodation

Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse

  • Area: Battery Point
  • Best for: Solo travelers looking to meet others and save money

For budget travelers and backpackers, Montacute Boutique is by far the best place to stay in Hobart. This is a great hostel that is ranked as having the best vibe in the city.

This bunkhouse doesn't feel like a stingy backpacker joint due to its excellent furnishing and cleanliness.

You might even find some friends who want to explore the surrounding areas or hike up to see Mount Wellington Falls.

Located in Battery Point, you'll also be close to some of the best restaurants and bars in Hobart, making it an excellent low-cost option for both backpackers and couples on a budget.

Montacute boutique bunkhouse

Tip: With the money saved on the epic room above head to Preachers which is a short 3-minute walk away and order some of the best-loaded fries in all of Tasmania!

Central YHA

  • Area: Hobart City
  • Best for: Those looking for a low-cost dorm room.

Backpackers and low-budget travelers arriving in Hobart will love this one. Central YHA is just one street from both the waterfront and the airport bus stop. This makes it not only a great transit stop but also a great place to stay in Hobart to enjoy the city.

At this YHA visitors will find a variety of dorm options, private rooms with shared bathrooms, and ensuite rooms, all for a great price.

This one is also a very social hostel, with the staff organizing weekly activities and events both in-house and around the city.

Book: Central YHA

Hobart central yha accomodation

Shipwrights Arms

  • Area: Battery Point
  • Best for: Couples or solo travelers looking for a quiet area to stay for a great price

A low-budget, stylish, and historic Hobart hotel close to the waterfront and Battery Point? You've got it. Although Shipwrights Arms isn't a backpacker's hostel you'll pay roughly the same amount for a private room in this old-style hotel.

In addition, this property boasts an outdoor terrace to soak in that afternoon sun. Ultimately if you're on a budget but want a private room and are looking for a place to stay in Hobart, check out Shipwrights Arms.

Shipwrights arms accomodation

My Hotel Selection Process

  • Accommodation Criteria: I've selected hotels based on value for money for each budget tier, location, current reviews, and unique amenities and features.
  • My Experience: I spent several months traveling around Tasmania and constantly returned to Hobart, staying in different neighborhoods and hotels around the city.
  • Top Reviews: I have compared hundreds of accommodation listings and read countless reviews for each option across booking sites. Each recommendation has at least a 4/5 or equivalent on Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia from recent travelers.
  • Local Insights: Traveling around Tasmania I got personal recommendations from friends & other travelers. Growing up in Australia, many of my friends moved to Tasmania and gave me local recommendations for neighborhoods and specific hotels, many of which are featured in this list.

Read more about how I review & select hotels & accommodations.

6+
Years Traveling
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Hotels Stayed
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Olly gaspar

I'm Olly, a full-time traveler since 2018. Each accommodation option in this guide is handpicked by me. Read my travel review ethics statement.

FAQ About Staying in Hobart

What is the best area to stay in Hobart for first-time visitors?

The best area for first-timers is the Hobart Waterfront. This area is the historic part of the city, with easy access to major attractions like Salamanca Markets, and it's filled with many dining and accommodation options. However, prices can be higher here.

Are there budget-friendly accommodation options in Hobart?

Hobart offers several budget-friendly options. The Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse in Battery Point is the one I recommended for solo travelers and backpackers. Another good choice is the Central YHA, located centrally and offering a variety of room types for different budgets.

Is Hobart a walkable city?

Yes, especially in the central areas like the CBD, Waterfront, and Battery Point. Most major attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s unique charm and heritage. If you would like to head out of the city you can book a tour or take the bus to Mount Wellington with an all-day pass.

How many days do you need in Hobart?

I recommended 3 days to explore Hobart. This allows enough time to visit key attractions like the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Salamanca Market, and take a day trip to nearby natural wonders like Mount Wellington or even better a day trip to Mount Feild National Park.

Before you go, make sure to check out some of my other Tasmanian travel guides below. I've spent several months photographing and documenting some of the most incredible adventures and things to see and do on the island.

No matter how much you know, I'm sure you'll find something new on my blog, that's my mission!

Where to stay in hobart pinterest pin
Thanks for Reading

I’m Olly Gaspar, Australian adventure traveler and founder of We Seek Travel. Six years ago, I left home to travel full-time and started this website to share my journey. Today, it’s grown into one of the world’s largest free adventure travel resources, now supported by a team of passionate travelers writing travel guides to the places we visit.

We only make genuine, worthwhile recommendations based on our experience, expertise, & research. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you, supporting this website and keeping us on the road. Read Olly's Publishing Ethics Statement.