This itinerary will see you fly into Hobart and rent a car, ready to indulge in the ultimate Tasmanian escape. Your first day will see you experience Hobart, discovering the oldest and most historic parts of the city. Having strategically chosen to fly in for the Saturday markets, you will browse local arts, crafts and handiworks, and will treat yourself to fresh, gourmet produce for lunch.
You are in the vicinity of one of Australia’s leading whiskey distilleries, which offers affordable tastings and 45 minute tours. The afternoon will see you drive to the top of what locals call “the mountain” for spectacular views over the city of Hobart and the wilderness forest to the west of the city. Have dinner on the waterfront and take a leisurely stroll before heading in for the night.
On your second day you will discover Tasmania’s rich natural beauty, driving a stunning coastal route to spend your final two days in a pristine National Park. You will stay in a spectacular waterfront location, in a secluded bushland setting – the ultimate romantic retreat.
You will be ideally located for bushwalking, kayaking, snorkelling, and further outdoor/beach activities, as well as nature and wildlife viewing – for your location lends itself to an abundance of Tasmanian wildlife. You will be surrounded by award winning a la carte restaurants & bars featuring the finest local produce, fresh seafood & wines.
A 2.5 hour drive back to Hobart to catch the flight you so desperately would rather miss! Should you not wish to drive, additional transportation is available between Hobart and your romantic escape. This trip is recommended sooner rather than later, as it begins to get quite cold towards the beginning of April.
A Taste of Tasmania: 3 Day Itinerary For the Ultimate Tasmanian Escape
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- Tasmanian landscapes are some of the most stunning in the world.
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- Tasmanian landscapes are some of the most stunning in the world.
Arrive: Friday
Fly into Hobart late Friday evening and pick up your car rental from the airport terminal. Taking transit time into consideration, your car rental will work out to be 4 days.
No trip planning necessary today – get a good night’s sleep ready to begin exploring Hobart in the morning. How to spend 4 days in Tasmania.
Accommodation: Book for Friday and Saturday night at Corinda House. A stunning historic grand estate house built in the 1870s, The Corinda Collection offers self-contained cottages and hotel style rooms, set amid stunning gardens, just a 15-minute walk from the Hobart waterfront and CBD.
Alternatively, you could catch an early morning flight into Hobart on Saturday. Recommended to travel on Friday night however to be fresh for the day ahead.
Day 1: Saturday
Wake up early and take a leisurely stroll from your hotel to the famed Salamanca Markets. Open from 8am – 3pm, Salamanca Place is lined with over 300 stalls showcasing local arts, crafts and handiworks, as well as fresh, gourmet produce which you should treat yourself to for breakfast/lunch. You will need a few hours to fully explore the markets.
Lark Distillery is within walking distance, located on the waterfront. Hit up the Cellar Door for various tours which cover an exploration of the world of single malt whiskey, or instead head to the whiskey bar for an afternoon tasting or nightcap later in the evening. Best Tasmanian Whisky in Hobart
Connected to Salamanca by Kelly’s Steps, continue your day (on foot) at Battery Point. The oldest and most historic area of Hobart, Battery Point is the most authentic way to step back in time – historic houses and architecture remain unchanged since the early 1800’s. Historic things to do in Hobart
Make your way back to the hotel and pick up the car. Only a short drive from Hobart City is Mt Wellington and Wellington Park. Enter “Pinnacle Road” into your GPS and drive to the summit for absolutely spectacular views of the city. If you don’t want to drive you can book a Hobart City tour with your holiday expert, KKday Australia.
After returning to the hotel, have dinner on the waterfront and take a leisurely stroll before heading in for the night.
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- Wake up early and take a leisurely stroll from your hotel to the famed Salamanca Markets.
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- Only a short drive from Hobart City is Mt Wellington and Wellington Park. Enter “Pinnacle Road” into your GPS and drive to the summit for absolutely spectacular views of the city.
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- After returning to the hotel, have dinner on the waterfront and take a leisurely stroll before heading in for the night.
Day 2: Sunday
Today you will be driving from Hobart to Coles Bay/Freycinet Peninsular. Wake up and check out early, and begin driving towards the historic town of Richmond. Detour through Richmond Tasmania
A 25 minute drive from Hobart, make a stop in Richmond and explore the area for an hour or so. Richmond is a beautiful village with a fascinating goal, famous bridge and lovely countryside. Tasmania’s most important historic town, stop for a stroll down the winding streets which will provide a glimpse of what life may have been like during Tasmania’s colonial era.
Richmond is famous for its tea rooms, antique shops, convict heritage, and two huge timber human mazes. Although be warned, you may be lost within the mazes for a good hour! Things to do in Richmond Tasmania
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- Tasmania’s most important historic town, stop for a stroll down the winding streets which will provide a glimpse of what life may have been like during Tasmania’s colonial era.
Drive the coastal route (Tasman Highway A3) from Richmond towards Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay. (2 hour drive) There are many secluded beach pull off’s along the way should you feel like stretching your legs.
Freycinet is a world-renowned National Park and the best destination to discover Tasmania’s rich natural beauty. It is home to Wineglass Bay, named one of the top 10 beaches in the world.
Accommodation: Freycinet Lodge. Luxury eco accommodation in a spectacular natural setting. The lodge is located within the National Park, offering an intimate connection with the stunning scenic environment. Book for Sunday and Monday night. Itinerary for Freycinet National Park Tasmania.
Alternatively there is an abundance of much more affordable accommodation available in Coles Bay.
Keep in mind that you will be subject to park fees: $24 per vehicle per day.
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- The view over Wineglass Bay from Mt Amos.
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- The view over Wineglass Bay from Mt Amos.
Spend the afternoon taking a short stroll around the National Park – walking is the best way to experience your surroundings. You’ve been driving for a while today, so save the Wineglass Bay bush-walk for tomorrow. Check out Cape Tourville Lighthouse which is a 15 minute drive from Coles Bay and has an easy 20 minute walking circuit offering spectacular views of Sleepy Bay and Wineglass Bay. How much is Freycinet National Park Tasmania?
Spend the evening watching the sun set over the Ocean from the lodge deck, or take a romantic stroll along one of the Peninsula’s white sand beaches.
The lodge has a number of inhouse dinner options available which offer local produce, fresh seafood & wine. Opportunity also to sample premium Tasmanian single malt at Hazards Bar and Lounge or to book onto the Freycinet Whiskey Tasting, run at 8.30pm each evening. Book at the lodge front desk at least half hour before the tasting begins.
Day 3: Monday
Freycinet National Park is a mecca for bushwalking. Today you will explore the park’s walking trails and bushwalks. Best bushwalks in Tasmania.
Take the day to complete a circuit walk of the Peninsula, walking to the lookout for views of the internationally acclaimed Wineglass Bay.
The Wineglass Bay Lookout walk is 1 and a half hours return. Add an extra hour to your walk and continue downhill through the open forest until you reach the bay itself. A 20 minute walk to the southern end of the beach gives you amazing views of the Hazards – stunning pink granite mountains rising straight from the sea. Walking trails are well signposted. Things to do in Tassie
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- A 20 minute walk to the southern end of the beach gives you amazing views of the Hazards.
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- A 20 minute walk to the southern end of the beach gives you amazing views of the Hazards.
The Wineglass Bay/Hazards Beach walking circuit is also an option for the day. 4 – 5 hours return, you will walk through diverse coastal vegetation and forest and trace the coastline around the base of the Hazard mountains for unforgettable views of the Tasmanian coastal landscape and scenery. This walk starts at the track to Wineglass Bay Lookout – ask the front desk at the lodge for walking maps. 3 days in Tasmania itinerary.
Spend the evening relaxing; watching the sunset over the National Park never gets old! 4 days in Tasmania itinerary.
Check out the next day and make the 2.5 hour drive back to the airport to catch your afternoon flight…or miss your flight and stay in Tasmania until you feel like going home! Warning: This may be never!! 5 days in Tasmania.
Practical Tips
Flights to Hobart: Both Qantas and Virgin Australia fly directly into Hobart from Melbourne and Sydney. Virgin will often offer cheaper fares, and runs an online “Happy Hour” every Thursday 4-11pm AEDT with an abundance of domestic sales and deals. How to get to tasmania.
Your itinerary involves driving across the State, so remember to pack or book a GPS along with your car rental. In case of an accident, use a car repair comparison service to get multiple quotes and save money.
Pack warm clothes. Tasmania is prone to unpredictable cold fronts. Also keep in mind that it is likely to be at least 8°C colder on the top of Mt Wellington than in Hobart – plus the wind chill factor! Take a jacket.
Budget Park Entrance Fees Because Freycinet Lodge is located within Freycinet National Park, park entry fees apply for all guests.
A recommendation: Compare prices on Tasmania Hotels via HotelPlanner.com – find discounts to brag about.
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- Tasmanian landscapes are some of the most stunning in the world.
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- Tasmanian landscapes are some of the most stunning in the world.
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Photo credits: Featured photo by Mapping Megan. Wineglass Bay Pinterest image by Ben Ashmole. Maria Island Pinterest image by Mapping Megan. Salamanca by Jorke Odolphi. Mt Wellington by Mapping Megan. Hobart Waterfront by Soma Kondo. Richmond by Mapping Megan. Wineglass bay by Ben Ashmole. The Hazards by Mark Wassell.
25 Comments
Good itinerary!! As a local I agree with most of it, but would suggest a few additions. On the road to Freycinet I would highly recommend stopping by Kate’s Berry Farm just a few kilometres before Swansea. The berry ice creams and the pies there are amazing! After passing through Swansea it is worth keeping your eyes peeled for wineries, there are five between Swansea and the turn off to Coles Bay. My personal favourite is Devil’s Corner. I am told their recent renovation has extended their facilities from just offering cellar door, to now also having a restaurant.
In Coles Bay, I recommend eating at Tombolo, it is the best food (at an affordable price) in the bay.
Also for those who are more energetic and have the time, the hike up Mount Amos (departs from the same starting point as the hike into Wineglass Bay) is challenging, but the view over Wineglass Bay is simply spectacular – better than from the lookout. Only the track doesn’t provide a way to descend to Wineglass Bay Beach.
Fantastic. I am considering a cheeky visit to Tassie at Christmas/New Years, shall refer to your guide fo shiz. Also very helpful advice from Cat above.
It looks like one can do many things here even in a short period of time. Useful tips – and, as usual, great photos!
Freycinet looks absolutely gorgeous – I know we would love it there. I have heard such great things about Tasmania – how amazing you can see so much and enjoy it in a few days too (though I’m sure it’s the longer the better!).
Based on those photos, I feel like I could spend 3 days just at Wineglass Bay!! It’s so beautiful there. Really seems like a good mix of things to do if you have just a short time, though.
Wow, Tasmania looks amazing. I don’t know what image I had in mind, but it definitely wasn’t this! Thanks for the detailed itinerary! I have pinned in my Australia folder.. I am dying to make it down under and it will happen some day!!
This looks lovely! I have to admit I knew nothing about Tasmania (other than the Tasmanian devil). The beaches and the wine trips look like a perfect combo!
This itinerary is a great way to see the best of Tasmania during a long weekend. Who wouldn’t love a weekend filled with beaches and wine?
I have this saved on my Pinterest board. I plan to visit Tasmania sometime next year. A road trip is something I’d love to do. May I ask around how much you paid to rent a car from the airport?
Thanks for sharing this.
This taste of Tasmania with the coastal drive from historical Richmond to Freycinet and the gorgeous Wineglass beach looks like a beautiful weekend escape. Thanks for the itinerary recommendations.
Hello! My husband and I will be traveling through Tasmania from March 8-11. Unfortunately, we will only be there for three days and are having to decide between traveling into Cradle Mountain or Freycinet/Hobart. Which would be a better route to go during March? And with such a small amount of time? Your feedback is greatly appreciated!!
Cheers,
Whitney
I vote for Cradle Mt. The animals, wombats are amazing. Took a night tour and saw hundreds of marsupials and the clear sky was brilliant with stars! Visited a devil breeding facility, such an incredible experience! Bring warm clothing.
Hi Meg,
it is a very helpful itinerary. We are planning to fly from sydney to TAS during april long weekend. any suggestions as its our first trip to tas..also weather will be fine this ?? just to add i love beaches ;)
Hi Meg,
Could you please help us plan our trip in Tas. I am traveling with my husband & young adult daughter. We are from the US & vacationing in NZ & Australia in June. We will be arriving in Tas (from Melbourne) on June 12,2018 (Tues)at 1:55 pm. & departing for Sydney on June 16th at 6am. We have 3 1/2 days & 4nights to spend in Tas. Your itinerary is more for warmer weather. Since it is winter during the time of our visit, please kindly let us know what places/activities to do (long hours of hiking/bushwalking as described in the above itinerary might be difficult to do in a cold weather). What area/town should we stay for our first 2 nights & the 3rd & 4th nights? Thanks so much for your insights & suggestions.
Marla
At several chains, including Omni and Fairmont, you can avoid paying a daily fee for in-room Wi-Fi by signing up for the hotel’s loyalty program.
Hey! Planning a 4 day trip to Tassie (24th to 28th December 2018). Any suggestions?
Hi Meg,
We are a family of 4 (2 teens) from India planning a trip to Australia in May. We intend self drive – 3 days in Tasmania in last week of May. Pl suggest.
Hello Meg,
I am planning vacation with my wife in Australia. We are coming from India for for 12 days trips. Can you please suggest places. Minimum how much time we should spend in Tasmania.
Hello Megan
Thanks for reply.We would be preferring staying in city and planning day trip around.
we would like to explore nature, sea-beaches, culture and city life in Australia.I will be having around 12 days starting from Melbourne – Plan is to spend 3 days in Melbourne, 3 days-Tasmania, 2 days in sydney, 2 day gold coast. will fly back from Melbourne.
can you please suggest/modify above itinerary based on your experience.
I also heard of great barrier of reef but it seems costly to travel & stay there.
Also in Tasmania is it safe to travel by renting car? As i am traveling with my wife only.
Looking forward for your valuable suggestion.
Hello.
we are planning 19 people from Melbourne to Tasmania for 2 nights during April 2020
What is your suggestion?
Hi Meg, I’m planning a trip with my boyfriend at the end of the year, he can only get away for 3 days inclusive of weekend.
I have read your suggestions. I was thinking of basing ourselves in Hobart, hiring a car and driving around to save the hassle of changing hotels. or shall we base ourselves somewhere else?
What would your recommendation be for a quick relaxing getaway. He is not much of a bushwalker.
Hi,
I am planning for a Tasmania trip for 3 days 4 nights in Jan 2020
I wanted to follow
Day 1 – Drive to Cradle mountains and stay there
Day 2 – visit the Bays and Wildlife park and return to Hobart
Day 3 (Sat)- Sight seeing around Hobart and visit Salamanca market
Do you think it makes sense ? Can you suggest any good budget accommodation at Cradle mountains ?
Hello Megan,
Can you help me build an itinerary for two and a half days that does not involve renting a car , however I would still like to see the Freycinet National Park ? Is uber an option ?
Also what hotels and restaurants do you highly recommend ?
Hi Megan, thanks for this. Is very helpful.
Just wondering if this is possible to do without a car, any bus service that you would recommend?. I drive in the other side of the road and I’m bit scared of start trying there.
Looks great! We’re traveling to Hobart for the first time, staying 3 nights 4 days.
Do you think going from Hobart to Freycinet and back can be done in one day? We’d love to hike wineglass bay, but not sure if it can ask be done in a day?