Here is a review of the most visited places in Tasmania, using data from the Tasmanian Visitor Survey. Does that mean they should all be on your list of must-see places? Not necessarily.
The numbers below correspond to the map at the end of the article. It’s a mix of Tasmania’s most visited places and attractions based on 12-month data, but the ranking may change. For the latest data, visit the Tasmanian Visitor Survey website.
1. Hobart
As the state capital, it’s not surprising to see Hobart at the top of the list of the most visited places in Tasmania. It is home to the three most popular attractions in Tasmania: Mount Wellington, the Salamanca Markets, and the Mona Museum. The Royal Botanic Garden is also among the top 10 most visited attractions on the island, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery isn’t far behind. Additionally, Hobart is famous for hosting the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, which departs every year on Boxing Day.
Is it worth going?
Hobart is a charming town, but I always prefer exploring Tasmania’s national parks. Nevertheless, many people argue that you should spend at least a day in Hobart when visiting Tasmania, particularly as you’re likely to fly to or from Hobart. Foodies won’t even consider a trip to Tasmania without staying in Hobart, and some visitors specifically fly to Hobart to visit the Mona Museum!
2. Port Arthur
Port Arthur is a unique site to learn about the convict history of Australia and the most visited attraction in Tasmania outside Hobart. It’s less than 100 km from the capital and just a one-hour drive from the airport, making it an easy destination to reach. You can even join a tour from Hobart*. Many visitors also stop at Sorell on the way, one of Tasmania’s oldest towns.
Is it worth going?
It’s hard not to put Port Arthur on your list if it’s your first trip to Tasmania. However, I chose not to go again on my second trip as I’m not particularly interested in convict history, but I hesitated as there are some attractions in the region to please nature lovers. The views of the Tasman Peninsula cliffs on the way are stunning. The Tasman Arch and blowhole are among the top 10 most visited attractions on the island, and you’ll also find beautiful hikes and a stunning wilderness cruise* in this region.
3. Freycinet National Park
Still on the southern coast, approximately 200 km from Hobart or Port Arthur, Freycinet is the most visited national park in Tasmania. It’s particularly famous for the stunning Wineglass Bay and the delicious seafood. If your time is limited, you’ll find tours from Hobart* and from Launceston* that offer day trips to the national park.
There are a few hikes to enjoy the views, such as Mount Amos, the Wineglass Bay lookout, or a walk to Wineglass Bay. Although those who don’t want to walk won’t be able to reach Wineglass Bay Beach, they can still join a cruise to enjoy spectacular views of the bay*. A few beaches are easier to access, such as Honeymoon Beach and Friendly Beach.
Is it worth going?
Freycinet National Park is undoubtedly beautiful, with its white sand beach and turquoise waters contrasting with the orange rocks. I have visited the park on all of my trips to Tasmania and have always enjoyed it. However, if you have limited time in Tasmania and must choose between two iconic destinations, such as Freycinet and Cradle Mountain, I highly recommend picking Cradle Mountain. You often get to see stunning beaches when you live in Australia, but alpine environments (and wombats) are rarer and provide a unique experience.
4. Cradle Mountain National Park
Cradle Mountain National Park is the close-second most visited national park in Tasmania. And it’s one of my favourite places on the island. Cradle Mountain has something special you won’t find elsewhere in Australia. Visitors from Launceston can visit Cradle Mountain as a day trip from Launceston*, but it’s a two-hour drive to the visitor centre where buses leave for the national park.
Is it worth going?
A trip to Tasmania without seeing Cradle Mountain isn’t complete. Even if you’re not into hiking, there are easy walks to enjoy the wilderness of the park and get to see wildlife if you stay there for the night. We saw cute wombats every day in the late afternoon not far from the Ronny Creek bus stop. Plus, there are some stunning accommodations like the spa cabins at Cradle Mountain Highlanders* for example. And if you’re into hiking – even if you’re not fit enough for Cradle Mountain Summit Walk – you’ll love Cradle Mountain National Park!
5. Cataract Gorge (Launceston)
Cataract Gorge is the main attraction in Launceston, the second biggest town in Tasmania. Some visitors fly into Launceston to start their trip in the north of the island, so it’s the second most visited town after Hobart. There are a lot of activities at Cataract Gorge, and you can also enjoy them by simply relaxing on a cruise*.
Is it worth going?
It’s lovely to have a natural attraction close to town, and they’ve installed excellent facilities for all to enjoy. However, I much preferred other destinations in Tasmania where I felt closer to nature and wilderness.
6. Bruny Island
Bruny Island is only half an hour south of Hobart, so it makes a fantastic day trip from the capital city. Hence, it makes sense to find it in the top 10 of the most visited places in Tasmania. If you plan a day trip there but don’t want to drive, you can join a tour from Hobart* to visit places on the island that you cannot reach with a rental vehicle, such as the lighthouse. There’s enough to do on the island to stay for a few days, but make sure you book accommodation early if you visit during the high season or weekends.
Is it worth going?
Bruny Island is worth a visit and will seduce most travellers interested in hiking, wildlife spotting or food. I chose not to add it to my itinerary the first time I visited Tasmania, but it ended up being among my top 3 highlights for my second trip! We particularly enjoyed the three-hour cruise* to the southeast of the island.
7. Bay of Fires
The Bay of Fires is located on the north-east coast of Tasmania. Initially, I thought that the bay was named after its striking red rocks. However, these rocks are also visible much further south on the east coast, such as in Bicheno and even Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park. The name ‘Bay of Fires’ actually comes from an explorer who observed several fires around the bay.
Is it worth going?
I was surprised to see the Bay of Fires listed near the top of the most visited attractions in Tasmania, as I found there wasn’t much to do in the area. On a sunny day, the red rocks contrasting with the turquoise waters are gorgeous. But, apart from a few short coastal walks that offer relaxing sea views, there isn’t much to keep you occupied. I would recommend it as a quick stop on your itinerary if you’re passing through the area, especially if you haven’t visited Wineglass Bay or Bicheno in the south. However, I wouldn’t suggest planning an extended visit to the Bay of Fires.
8. Devonport
Devonport serves as a port for boats arriving from the mainland, so it’s not surprising that it’s the third most-visited town in Tasmania after Hobart and Launceston.
Is it worth going?
While I didn’t find the town particularly interesting, one of my favourite places in Tasmania, Lillico Beach, is only a ten-minute drive away. It is one of the best places to see penguins in Tasmania, and I highly recommend a visit. You’ll find a food trail in the region to keep you busy during the day, with wineries and salmon farms for example.
9. The Nut (Stanley)
The Nut is a surprising rock formation that is the remains of an ancient volcanic plug. It has a large, flat surface at the top and is located in Stanley, a town on the north coast of Tasmania.
Is it worth going?
While the rock formation is interesting, adding Stanley to your itinerary may be a detour from your main route. If you have limited time in Tasmania, I recommend spending more time in some of the island’s more iconic destinations. However, if you do visit Stanley, keep in mind that it is one of the best places in Tasmania to see penguins.
10. Russell Falls (Mount Field National Park)
Mount Field National Park is situated only 1.5 hours west of Hobart, making it an easy day trip from the capital city. It’s a popular destination for group tours*, mainly due to its easily accessible waterfalls, including Russell Falls, one of Tasmania’s most-visited attractions.
Is it worth going?
Russell Falls are beautiful and easily accessible, and the ferns that line the path leading to the falls are stunning. However, I wouldn’t recommend driving for such a long time just for a short walk to the falls. The Three Falls Circuit is also lovely, but we didn’t find the falls more impressive than those we have near our home in Brisbane. However, if you have more time for a longer hike, Mount Field National Park is worth a visit, as we loved the beautiful tarns, which aren’t commonly found in Australia.
Have you been to some of the most visited places in Tasmania? Share your experience in the comments below!
Map of the most visited places in Tasmania
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