Tasmania Travel Tips

Climate

Tasmania has four distinct seasons. The warmest months are December, January, February and March. Autumn generally has clear, sunny days and Winter can be cool, depending on the region that you are in. However, because we sit in the Southern Ocean and have a maritime climate, temperature can vary greatly on any given day.


Autumn March - May 9 - 18°C
Winter June - August 5 - 13°C
Spring September - November 8 - 18°C
Summer December - February 12 - 24°C

What to wear in Tasmania

Due to the varying climate no matter when you come to Tasmania bring a warm jacket. If you are coming in the cooler months, it’s best to bring clothing you can layer because even the winter sun can be quite warm.

Shopping hours

Tasmania has seven day trading, however not all shops are open on Sundays. There are many great markets held on weekend’s right around the state - ask us for details when booking.

When to travel

Each season in Tasmania has its own appeal, making anytime a great time to visit! During the summer months it is festival time and can be very busy. Autumn is the best time to sample some of Tasmania’s renowned fresh produce at events like the Taste of the Huon or Agfest. In Winter, cosy up in front of a log fire or indulge at the Chocolate Winterfest in Latrobe. Winter is also a cheaper time to travel in Tasmania and crowds are smaller. In Spring, come to see the lush green country side and the magnificent heritage gardens in bloom.

How to get to Tasmania

By Air

You can fly direct to Tasmania from Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Perth (direct Canberra flights also available with Link Airways) with Virgin Australia, Qantas, Jetstar, Bonza and Rex Airlines as part of your holiday package. Interconnecting flights are also available from all other capital cities and major metropolitan areas. To get the best deal on airfares we recommend booking your flights directly with the airline. For flights to King and Flinders Island please contact our team for flight prices with Sharp Airlines.

International Direct flights to Hobart from Auckland, New Zealand are available with Air New Zealand. (Direct flights have been paused between 5th April to October 2024 due to aircraft maintenance).
By Sea

There are nightly sailings between Geelong and Devonport and vice versa aboard the Spirit of Tasmania, enabling you to bring your own vehicle. Over the peak season day sailings are also available. Bringing your own car has many advantages. The extra space for luggage, the fishing rods or golf clubs will add to your holiday experience. The journey across Bass Strait takes between 9 and 11 hours. Tasmanian Vacations has the latest prices and special offers on Spirit of Tasmania when purchased in conjunction with accommodation. Ask your Tasmanian Vacations consultant for more details.

It doesn't take long to get here!

Direct flights to Tasmania

Tasmania Flight Times

Best way to get around Tasmania

Whether you hire a car, campervan or take your own vehicle on the Spirit of Tasmania, having your own transport is definitely the best way to see our Island State, as particularly in regional areas, public transport can be limited.

Self-drive holidays are made easy in Tasmania with good roads, light traffic and short travelling distances between major towns and cities. Most people chose to travel in a loop around Tasmania which avoids the need to backtrack and provides the opportunity to visit the majority of Tasmania’s main highlights.

Time & Distance Chart

Tasmania at a Glance


Hobart + South
Launceston + North
East
West + Central
North West
Cradle Mountain
King + Flinders
Hobart + South
Hobart & the South

With the River Derwent at its heart and kunanyi / Mount Wellington rising above it, in Hobart the tranquillity of a city from a bygone era co-exists with the vibrancy of a pocket-sized modern metropolis.

A reinvigorated Hobart of recent times has seen the emergence of a strong cultural and foodie scene. The 19th century sandstone warehouses of Salamanca Place now serve as homes to cafés and restaurants showcasing some of the best culinary experiences.

Salamanca Market is a must do on every itinerary. Held every Saturday, it’s a showcase of food, arts and entertainment. Mt Wellington/Kunanyi is an imposing backdrop to the city and the short car journey will reward you with amazing views across the city and beyond.

The Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) has been the catalyst for the emergence of a number of cultural and creative events year round. Mona itself is a must do, as is the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. Making the most of the expansive Derwent Estuary, a number of cruises operate, including to Mona.

Southern Tasmania’s main wine producing regions include the Coal River Valley, Huon Valley and Derwent Valley. The Huon Valley is also known for fresh produce and pristine wilderness. While in the region, take the regular car ferry to Bruny Island and join an amazing wildlife cruise or discover the island’s fabulous fresh produce from cheese and oysters to wine and berries.

Travel through the Derwent Valley west of Hobart to the town of New Norfolk sited on the Derwent River. A further 30 minute drive and you’ll be at Mt Field National Park and the location of one of Tasmania’s most outstanding nature walks and waterfalls – Russell Falls!

World Heritage listed Port Arthur Historic Site is an important reminder of our convict heritage. Interpretation on-site provides a fascinating glimpse into the harsh reality of times gone by. Today you can experience the site by day or join a ghost tour by night.

Highlights
  • Stroll around Sullivans Cove and Battery Point. Don’t miss the weekly Saturday Salamanca Market.
  • Cultural highlights include Mona and The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery.
  • Take to the water on a harbour cruise including eco-cruises with wildlife and stunning scenery included. Alternatively take an intimate day cruise from Hobart to Bruny Island where you will feast on the freshest Tasmanian seafood including wild abalone, oysters, rock lobster, sea urchin and salmon with Pennicott Wilderness Journeys.
  • Join a tour or take a short drive to kunanyi / Mt Wellington where you will be rewarded with spectacular views.
  • Visit Richmond, with its village atmosphere, heritage buildings, antique shops, art and craft galleries, restaurants and tea rooms where you will be taken to a time gone by.
  • The Huon and D’Entrecasteaux region south of Hobart for food, wine and wilderness. Visit Hastings Caves and walk amongst the treetops at Tahune. Make sure you drop into Willie Smith’s, local pioneers in the region reinvigorated through cider production.
  • The Tasman Peninsula is home to Port Arthur, eco-cruises below the towering cliffs and a number of spectacular walks.
  • Take to the air with scenic flights and helicopter tours over the city, South East and South West National Parks.
Launceston + North
Launceston & the North

Tasmania’s ‘northern gateway’, the city of Launceston is set in the picturesque Tamar Valley at the juncture of the South and North Esk Rivers. A haven for foodies, you are spoilt for choice with award winning restaurants, the Tamar Valley wine growing region and historic Boags Brewery.

Undoubtedly its most amazing natural attraction, the Cataract Gorge is only a 15-minute walk from the city centre. Take the chairlift across the wide expanse of the South Esk River to marvel at its beauty from above.

The Tamar River winds its way out to Bass Strait from the city. Explore it by river on a cruise or travel the ‘valley’ by car. Sample some cool climate wines from cellar doors, stop for lunch, visit a lavender farm or experience a number of top attractions.

Back in the city, marvel at Victorian architecture showcasing the prosperous times gone by. When it comes time for bed, everything from apartments to premium hotels are on offer. But first, your evening would not be complete without sampling some local produce at one of the many restaurants and cafés.

Within close proximity to Launceston are historic towns including Evandale, Longford and Deloraine. Explore the many galleries displaying the talents of local artists, drop into a national trust or world heritage listed property or peruse the many antique stores in the region. If golfing is your thing, you will no doubt already be aware of the links golf courses, Barnbougle Dunes and next-door Lost Farm, located at Bridport.

Highlights
  • Visit Cataract Gorge for walks, restaurants, the swinging bridge and chairlift with the largest single span in the world.
  • The city and Seaport precincts offer a range of restaurants, cafés and bars showcasing fine local produce.
  • Visit the Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery in two locations, the largest regional museum in Australia.
  • Take a cruise on the Tamar River, or visit one of Australia’s most interesting farms – Seahorse World.
  • Follow the Tamar Valley wine route with over 30 vineyards on offer.The region is known for producing some of the best cool climate wines. At Josef Chromy in Relbia you will experience one of the most memorable food and wine experiences in Tasmania.
  • Discover National Trust Listed and World Heritage Listed Brickendon and nearby Woolmers Estate.
  • During Summer months be stunned by the beauty of lavender in full bloom at Bridestowe Lavender Estate.
East Coast
The East Coast

A favourite playground for locals and visitors alike, the wide expanses of pristine beaches cohabit with the protected wilderness of the national parks on the coast. There is no shortage of walks, views and wildlife to enjoy.

There are so many accolades for locations such as the Bay of Fires, Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park and Maria Island. Once you visit, you will know why they continue to wow! The drive along the coast is known as the Great Eastern Drive and is surely one of Australia’s great road trips.

All along the coast you will be tempted to stop at berry farms, cellar doors and cafés. Seafood lovers are well catered for with the offerings as close as the clear waters in front of you. A short ferry ride takes you to Maria Island National Park for convict heritage, amazing walks including the multi-award winning 4-day escorted Maria Island Walk.

A memorable moment may be to cruise around Wineglass Bay, paddle at Freycinet or an evening penguin tour at Bicheno. Whatever you choose, Tasmania’s East Coast will leave a lasting impression.

Highlights
  • Take a walk in the national parks including Mt William, Douglas Apsley, Freycinet and Maria Island.
  • Cruise or paddle Wineglass Bay for unforgettable memories.
  • Taste some of Tasmania’s best fresh seafood at Freycinet Marine Farm at Coles Bay. Oysters and mussels are harvested from the farm daily. Scallops, abalone, rock lobster, sea urchin and salmon sourced from local fishermen. Further south the Triabunna Fish Van is another fantastic place to enjoy local seafood.
  • Drop into any of the cellar doors on the coast as well as Kates Berry Farm for seasonal berries and chocolate.
  • Base yourself in St Helens to enjoy some of the best mountain biking trails in Australia St Helens is also famous for being a deep sea fishing port.
  • Enjoy Pacific Oysters and Tasmanian Blue Mussels at Freycinet Marine Farm
  • Further south in Bicheno be sure to book an evening penguin tour.
West + Central
The West Coast & Central Tasmania

As diverse as the area it covers, the Western Wilds is the real Tasmanian wilderness. It’s also a region of rich mining and hydro development history with a pioneering spirit not seen today.

To many, Strahan is the centrepiece of this magical region. A coastal fishing village, now known more for tourism, it is the gateway to the World Heritage Listed Wilderness. A cruise on the Gordon River takes you right into this wilderness. Marvel at trees thousands of years old, before journeying to Sarah Island, a harsh reminder of the life of the convicts. Be sure to include The Ship That Never Was, Australia’s longest running play, which tells the dramatic and hilarious true story about the last great escape from Sarah Island.

The wilderness can also be explored by travelling on the West Coast Wilderness Railway between Queenstown and Strahan. Enjoy spectacular views as you pass over bridges, along cliff faces and through canopies of ancient forests. Only now can you begin to understand the hard toil of the early settlers.

The township of Corinna is located in a beautiful and remote pocket of Tasmania’s West Coast. Corinna can only be accessed from the south by crossing the Pieman River by barge. Corinna provides an unforgettable wild edge experience that is difficult to find elsewhere in the world. A range of kayaking, walking, boating, fishing, bird watching and nature experiences are all on offer. The Pieman River Cruise is a unique cruise aboard the only Huon Pine river cruiser in the world.

The entire Central region of Tasmania is renowned for trout fishing and includes large pastoral leases, a large range of walks and Georgian towns. Stop at Bothwell to visit the oldest golf course in the Southern Hemisphere at Ratho Farm, dating back to the 1820’s.

Highlights
  • Mt. Field National Park is one of the states oldest and best-loved national parks, with easy access to some of Tasmania’s wild beauty.Short walks to the spectacular Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Lady Barron Falls are a must.
  • Explore the beautiful village of Strahan, including Ocean Beach and Peoples Park.
  • Take a journey into pristine wilderness on a river cruise or by train.
  • Learn about early pioneering history at the West Coast Heritage Centre in Zeehan.
  • Take a short walk into the wilderness including Nelson Falls and Montezuma Falls.
  • The Heritage Highway region of Central Tasmania is home to historic towns well known for antique stores, distilleries, good food and loads of history.
North West
The North West Coast

Known as Tasmania’s food bowl, the red soil of the north west coast ensures abundant harvests. Buy direct from the farmer with everything on offer from berries, to cheese, to chocolate and seemingly everything in between.

Stanley is dominated by the large volcanic formation known as The Nut. Climb or take the chairlift to the top for panoramic sea views. Stanley is picture-perfect, as is the surrounding rich farming land.

Stanley, Wynyard and nearby Arthur River are all perfect bases to explore the wild Tarkine. Visit Woolnorth for the cleanest air in the world.

Town by town, the north west coast continues to roll out coastal beauty. Burnie has emerged from its industrial heritage to become a modern-day hub for the arts. Creativity is in abundance here.

Nearby Devonport is home to the modern Spirit of Tasmania ships and maritime history from days gone by. Latrobe showcases its antique stores and just down the road handmade chocolates can be found at House of Anvers.

Highlights
  • Take in the beauty of ‘The Edge of the World’ including Arthur River.
  • Spend time in beautiful Stanley. Take the chairlift to the top of The Nut or visit Highfield Historic Site.
  • Drive the Tarkine for ancient rainforests and a range of short walks in the wilderness or better still, join a tour of the region.
  • Make sure to visit Australia’s largest boutique distillery producing award-winning single malt whiskies and whisky liqueurs,
    Hellyers Road Distillery at Burnie.
  • Inland from the coast, the town of Sheffield is renowned for its murals on many of the local buildings.
Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain

The Cradle Mountain - Lake St. Clair National Park is arguably Tasmania’s best known National Park

Iconic Cradle Mountain is a place of exceptional natural beauty in the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. From moss covered ancient rainforests and deep river gorges to snow-covered mountain peaks, wild alpine moorlands and glacial lakes, the park is revered for its diverse and breath-taking landscapes.

A place for all seasons. Discover deep snowdrifts in winter, spectacular displays of yellows, oranges and reds across the mountain slopes in autumn as Tasmania’s deciduous Fagus turns. Playful young joeys and hungry echidnas emerge in spring, and the fragrance of wildflowers fills the air as you dip your toes into a crystal-clear lake on a summer’s day.

Cradle Mountain is synonymous with nature, wilderness and all things pristine. Wildlife is in abundance in this spectacular national park, giving the opportunity to encounter Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidna, wombats and the highly inquisitive black currawong.

The Park offers a world-class system of walking tracks to explore that ranges from very short easy strolls to the legendary Overland Track. This 5-6 day hike stretches 80km from Cradle Mountain through to Lake St. Clair and is an unforgettable journey through Tasmania’s alpine heart. Even if hiking boots and backpacks aren't your thing, you will find it hard to resist the lure of the well-formed tracks that lead you to surprising discoveries. Whichever way you look at it, the magic of Cradle Mountain is bound to captivate.

Highlights
  • Visit the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre for the latest weather and walking track information.
  • Take the coach transfers to Dove Lake and do the 2 hour circuit walk of the lake.
  • Adventurous travellers can launch themselves off waterfalls with Cradle Mountain Canyons.
  • Enchanted Walk – an easy 1km 20 minute short walk for all visitors.
  • Join a day or night feeding tour with Devils at Cradle to get up close and personal with the local wildlife.
King + Flinders
King Island

King Island lies in the path of the Roaring Forties, the ever-present westerlies that circle the world’s southern latitudes. It’s an island of long, empty beaches and clean fresh air, offshore reefs and rocky coasts.

King Island is known internationally for its fine produce. Succulent local beef, rich cream, handmade cheeses and even Cloud Juice (bottled water from unpolluted rain) are some of the produce receiving accolades around the world.

There are also two stunning world-class golf courses on the island, Cape Wickham (24th best in the world according to Golf Digest) and Ocean Dunes, both seaside courses designed in the Scottish links tradition.

Visit the museum and cultural centre in the town of Currie or take a guided or DIY trail of the island’s produce, culture, history, flora and fauna.

Flinders Island

Flinders Island is the main island of the Furneaux group, a collection of 52 islands that stretch across Bass Strait between Tasmania and mainland Australia.

On Flinders Island you can get away from it all in an inspiring world of sparkling beaches, rugged ranges, wildlife, flora, and clear sapphire waters. With a pleasant climate throughout the year and activities from boating, climbing and fishing to exploring historic sites, Flinders Island has much to offer.

The Island is also a wild and natural refuge for wildlife - wombats and wallabies, possums and pademelons to name a few. Two hundred species of birds, ranging from the tiny Superb Fairywren to the giant Wandering Albatross, have been recorded as visiting or living on Flinders Island. This also includes the endangered Fortyspotted Pardalote.

Be sure to allow enough time to discover some of the fascinating day trips around the island such as the wild coasts of the north; sandy lagoons to the east and secluded beaches found right around the island.

Tasmanian Public Holidays

New Year's Day 01 Jan 2024 ANZAC Day Holiday 25 Apr 2024
Devonport Cup # 10 Jan 2024 Agfest # 03 May 2024
Australia Day 26 Jan 2024 King's Birthday 10 Jun 2024
Royal Hobart Regatta 12 Feb 2024 Burnie Show # 04 Oct 2024
Launceston Cup # 28 Feb 2024 Royal Launceston Show # 10 Oct 2024
King Island Show # 05 Mar 2024 Flinders Island Show # 18 Oct 2024
Eight Hours Day 11 Mar 2024 Royal Hobart Show # 24 Oct 2024
Good Friday 29 Mar 2024 Recreation Day # 04 Nov 2024
Easter Monday 01 Apr 2024 Christmas Day Holiday 25 Dec 2024
#These Public Holidays are specific to a region, not statewide

School Holidays

TAS 22 Dec 23 - 06 Feb 24 12 Apr 24 - 28 Apr 24 06 Jul 24 – 22 Jul 24 28 Sep 24 – 13 Oct 24 20 Dec 24 – TBC
NSW 20 Dec 23 - 29 Jan 24 15 Apr 24 - 26 Apr 24 08 Jul 24 – 19 Jul 24 30 Sep 24 – 11 Oct 24 23 Dec 24 – 30 Jan 25
NT 18 Dec 23 - 29 Jan 24 08 Apr 24 - 12 Apr 24 24 Jul 24 – 15 Jul 24 23 Sep 24 – 04 Oct 24 16 Dec 24 – 28 Jan 25
QLD 09 Dec 23 - 21 Jan 24 29 Apr 24 - 14 Apr 24 22 Jun 24 – 07 Jul 24 14 Sep 24 – 29 Oct 24 14 Dec 24 – 27 Jan 25
SA 16 Dec 23 - 28 Jan 24 13 Apr 24 - 28 Apr 24 06 Jul 24 – 21 Jul 24 28 Sep 24 – 13 Oct 24 14 Dec 24 – 27 Jan 25
VIC 21 Dec 23 - 29 Jan 24 29 Mar 24 - 14 Apr 24 29 Jul 24 – 14 Jul 24 21 Sep 24 – 06 Oct 24 21 Dec 24 – 28 Jan 25
WA 15 Dec 23 - 30 Jan 24 29 Mar 24 - 14 Apr 24 29 Jun 24 – 14 Jul 24 21 Sep 24 – 06 Oct 24 13 Dec 24 – 04 Feb 25
ACT 16 Dec 23 - 29 Jan 24 13 Apr 24 - 28 Apr 24 06 Jul 24 – 21 Jul 24 28 Sep 24 – 13 Oct 24 18 Dec 24 – 02 Jan 25
NZ 21 Dec 23 - 08 Feb 24 13 Apr 24 - 28 Apr 24 06 Jul 24 – 21 Jul 24 28 Sep 24 – 12 Oct 24 18 Dec 24 – 02 Feb 25
School Holidays may vary between schools. These dates are based on public schools and should be used as an indication only.