While there is enough to keep the kids busy in Hobart for a day or two, if you’re in town any longer, I highly recommend you consider at least one day trip from Hobart.
There are some amazing Hobart day trips. The best day trips from Hobart include learning about Australia’s settlement at Port Arthur, seeing rare white wallabies at Bruny Island, discovering famous Wineglass Bay, meeting Tasmanian Devils at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary or exploring Hastings Caves and the hot springs.
This guide will help you determine the best day trips Hobart has to offer your family. The guide covers 10 of the best Hobart day tours, with information on how you can do it yourself, as well as links to our recommended Hobart tours.
So let’s get into it and find some great day tours from Hobart for your upcoming family trip.
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Best Day Trips from Hobart Map
Before we get into the details of each Hobart day trip, the map below will show you the location of each destination covered in this guide.
Zoom in and out for a better view.
Hobart Tours v’s Self Drive
If you’re looking for things to do in Hobart without a car, then booking a Hobart day tour is a no brainer. However, some families like to DIY and hire a car.
There really isn’t one better option, tour or Hobart self drive day trips – it really depends on your budget and what you want to get out of your day trip.
Personally, sometimes I prefer to hire a car (or use public transport) and take the trip myself, while other times, I find it easy to let someone else do the driving and enjoy the information provided by the experienced guides.
If you’re trying to weigh up booking day trips out of Hobart versus DIY – here are some things to consider:
- If the destination is quite far, it’s often best to let someone else take care of the driving.
- Car hire can be expensive and often hard to find at certain times of the year.
- At times you can actually save money on day tours in Hobart as they get discounted entry to attractions.
- You’ll save time by not having to plan anything, as your trips from Hobart will all be planned out for you.
- With Hobart sightseeing tours, you won’t miss anything – as the tour guide knows exactly how long you have for each stop and the location – so there is no chance of getting lost.
- You’ll get much more information about the destination as you’ll have an experienced guide to provide commentary and answer all your questions.
Best Day Trips – Hobart
Below we cover 10 of the best day trips around Hobart.
Under each destination, we cover why it’s one of the best day trips in Hobart, as well as tips on how to do the day trips from Hobart by car yourself and links to our recommended tours.
Port Arthur
Considered to be an inescapable prison, the Port Arthur Historic Site was one of Australia’s first penal colonies. Today Port Arthur is a UNESCO world heritage site and is one of the best self drive day trips from Hobart.
Your ticket to the site includes a 40 minute introductory tour, entry to the gallery, a 20 minute harbour cruise and access to 30 plus historic buildings.
Some of the best buildings to explore are the Penitentiary, the separate prison, the church and the Governor’s house. Some of the houses are furnished with items typical of the era, and there are many storyboards over the property where you can learn more about the prisoners and other people who once lived there.
For families with young children, make sure you ask for the free “Hidden Stories” activity book when you arrive. This is a great way to keep the kids engaged as they complete puzzles and search for answers throughout their visit.
The distance from Hobart to Port Arthur is around 90 kilometres and it’s roughly a 1.25 hour drive. Or for day trips from Hobart without a car, you can take the bus operated by Pennicott Wilderness Journeys, giving you six hours at the site. Tickets cost $60 return, or $99 with a guided tour, and must be pre-booked.
Click here for our guide on how to get to Port Arthur from Hobart.
In addition to the Port Arthur Historic Site – there is plenty to do in the area – click here for our guide on things to do in Port Arthur.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Port Arthur and Tasman Peninsula Cruise tour
One of the most popular day trips from Hobart to Port Arthur is this tour which combines the historic site as well as a wilderness cruise.
The 10.50 hour Port Arthur day trip from Hobart includes a 3 hour Tasman Peninsula cruise, where you’ll see hidden caves and unique rock formations. If you’re lucky, you might even see whales or dolphins, depending on the season. But you’re pretty much guaranteed to see plenty of seals and seabirds.
In addition to the wildlife cruise, you’ll get 3 hours to explore the Port Arthur Historic Site.
Price: $280 per adult | $190 per child (3 – 16) | children under 3 are free – Click here to book
Port Arthur and Tasmanian Devils day tour
This 10 hour day trip to Port Arthur from Hobart covers several fun family friendly attractions. As well as taking in the UNESCO-listed penal site of Port Arthur and Richmond Historic Village, you’ll visit Tasmanian Devil Unzoo for an encounter with the island’s most famous creatures.
You’ll also enjoy the Waterfall Bay Cliff Top Walk where you’ll see the peninsula’s spectacular landscape, including the Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen, which rival anything you’ll find on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road.
Lastly, these Port Arthur day tours from Hobart stop at a chocolate factory and a lookout in Hobart city.
Please note that children under 8 are not permitted on this trip.
Price: $142 per adult | $132 per child (8 – 15) – Click here to book
Port Arthur and Tasmanian Peninsula day tour
On these 10 hour Hobart tours to Port Arthur, you’ll see much of the region’s breathtaking coastline and natural rock structures via the 25 minute harbour cruise.
The historic colonial village of Richmond is also on the itinerary, as is the lookout at Pirate’s Bay. Incredible views, unspoiled bushland, dramatic rock formations and Australian history are all yours to explore on this tour.
Price: $140 per adult | $135 per child (0 – 15) – Click here to book
Bruny Island
Whether you’re seeking an encounter with nature, such as the native rare white wallabies, an amazing coastline to capture on camera or to escape the city, Bruny Island is a favourite among visitors to Tasmania.
Bruny Island day trips from Hobart are heavenly for committed foodies, with other highlights including Adventure Bay, Bruny Island Neck Lookout, the Bligh Museum and the Mavista rainforest. The kids will enjoy checking out the bioluminescent water due to glowing algae in summer and looking for wildlife.
For DIY day trips from Hobart to Bruny Island, you’ll need to drive about 35 kilometres from Hobart to the ferry terminal in Kettering. From there, it’s a journey across the water that takes around 20 minutes. Once on the island, there aren’t any public buses, but you can take your vehicle across with you. Book your ferry ticket here.
If visiting South Bruny National Park on the island, you will also need a park pass which you can buy here.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Bruny Island day tour from Hobart
This 10 hour Hobart to Bruny Island day trip will have you encountering local wildlife, gazing at Tasmania’s jaw-dropping coastline and savouring a few foodie delights.
Top spots like Cape Bruny Lighthouse and Bruny Island Neck Lookout are also on the itinerary. A dip in the ocean may even be possible if the weather is kind, so fingers crossed.
Price: $145 per person – Click here to book
Bruny Island Traveller day tour
On this Bruny Island full day tour from Hobart, you’ll visit a couple of top food producers, take a walk through the Mavista rainforest and tour the stunning English-style HIBA gardens with sweeping views over Adventure Bay.
Your ticket price also covers lunch at Getting Shucked Oysters. This includes a main meal, oysters, and a couple of glasses of wine, cider or beer each.
Chocolate, honey and whisky samples can also be sampled during visits to each artisan producer.
Don’t forget to look out for white wallabies while walking through the rainforest!
Price: $210 per adult | $175 per child (3 – 17) | children under 3 are free – Click here to book
Bruny Island, Cape Bruny Lighthouse and Foodie day tour
Despite a packed itinerary, these Bruny Island trips from Hobart give you plenty of time to see the island’s culinary and indigenous highlights. During the day, you’ll learn about Cape Bruny Lighthouse’s history, sample a range of delicious produce and look for all sorts of wildlife, from echidnas, whales or eagles to the unique white wallabies.
This full day Bruny Island tour has a bit of a foodie feel, with visits to local producers plus a yummy lunch and morning tea thrown in.
Your first snack stop takes place overlooking the magnificent coastline and is later followed by lunch at Hotel Bruny, this time with a view of Sunset Beach.
Price: $215 per adult | $195 per child (0 – 11)- Click here to book
Wineglass Bay
World-famous Wineglass Bay barely needs any introduction. This circular coastal spot is renowned for its awe-inspiring coastal scenery and suitability for outdoor pursuits like swimming, kayaking, snorkelling, fishing and hiking through the bush.
Wineglass Bay is situated on the Freycinet Peninsula and is a long drive from Hobart. The trip by car takes about 2.5 hours – so if you’re planning any road trips from Hobart, this one’s probably best done over at least two days.
As Wineglass Bay is within the Freycinet National Park, you will also need a park pass which you can buy here.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Wineglass Bay active day tour
If your kids are 8+, this Wineglass Bay tour from Hobart is worth checking out. A small group will be led by a professional guide, who will show you all the highlights of this glorious landscape.
As a lookout, the one at Wineglass Bay will never disappoint. Gazing in awe at one of the world’s top ten beaches is an experience you won’t forget. If you like, you can opt for a longer, more challenging walk that takes in the fine white sands of Wineglass Bay.
Honeymoon Bay, Cape Tourville Lighthouse and Sleepy Bay may also be seen during the day.
A stop at Kate’s Berry Farm is the last one before the day trip ends, and here you can buy irresistible homemade ice creams. This prospect is ideal for keeping flagging children going earlier in the day!
This Hobart to Wineglass Bay tour is aimed at those with a reasonable level of hiking ability. A good fitness level is needed for the optional loop to and from Wineglass Bay.
Price: $130 per person – Click here to book
Coles Bay to Wineglass Bay Cruise
This 4.5 hour cruise from Coles Bay is an excellent family activity. Do note though, that this is not a Wineglass Bay day trip from Hobart, as you’ll need to make your own way to Coles Bay first.
On this half day tour, in addition to seeing magnificent Wineglass Bay from the water and the stunning Freycinet Peninsula coastline, you may be lucky to see sea eagles, migrating whales or dolphins.
You can also choose to upgrade your tour to include a lunch onboard or bring your own picnic style lunch to keep everyone full on a budget.
Price: $155 per adult | $95 per child (3 – 16) | children 2 and under are free – Click here to book
Maria Island
Maria Island is yet another stunning location near Hobart. It’s a gorgeous island, home to the Maria Island National Park, which in addition to extraordinary landscapes, is teeming with wildlife, as well as Darlington, the World Heritage listed convict probation site.
Maria Island is car free, so walking or cycling is the only way to get around the island. To reach the island, it’s a 1.5 hour drive to Triabunna and then take a 30 minute ferry ride. Alternatively, you can make life easier by opting for a cruise from Triabunna, a day trip from Hobart or a tour complete with a picnic lunch.
You will need a park pass for visiting Maria Island, which you can buy here.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Maria Island active day tour
If venturing into the Tasmanian wilderness is on your sightseeing list, this Maria Island day trip from Hobart is well worth considering.
The ferry trip takes only half an hour, and there’s no time for the kids to get bored with the chance of spotting whales and dolphins in the water. Once you disembark, you’ll walk the island trails to see the Painted Cliffs and the former convict site at Darlington, all while looking out for the Tasmanian Devils, kangaroos and penguins.
Please note that the tour is only suitable for kids 8+.
Price: $170 per person- Click here to book
Maria Island tour with picnic lunch
This day tour commences at the cafe in Triabunna, which offers all-day parking. As well as ticking off things to visit in the area, you get to enjoy lunch, snacks, drinks and a scenic cruise.
Sites visited include Darlington and the picturesque cliffs. You can either stay at the beach with the children to sunbathe, swim or snorkel or opt to take a historic tour while looking for wombats. Other wildlife you may see include seals, whales and dolphins.
Price: $270 per adult | $130 per child (3-16) | children under 3 are free – Click here to book
Freycinet National Park
Wineglass Bay is only one part of the beautiful Freycinet National Park of Tasmania. This beautiful part of Tasmania is home to pink granite peaks, secluded bays, pristine beaches and plenty of wildlife. This is the perfect place for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkelling, fishing, kayaking, and bushwalking.
You can get from Hobart to Freycinet by car in around 2 to 3 hours or take one of the Tassielink Transit buses. This will deliver you to the Freycinet Visitor Centre.
You will require a park pass for visiting Freycinet which you can buy here.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider this tour:
Freycinet National Park with Wineglass Bay and Richmond
This small group day tour allows you to discover the east coast of Tasmania during an 11-hour day. First, you’ll see historic Richmond before visiting Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay.
The whole family can tick off several must-do things in the area, including fine white sandy bays, wild and unspoiled coastline and historic Richmond. You can also enjoy lunch at Devil’s Corner Winery if you like.
Please note that children under 5 are not permitted on this tour.
Price: $139 per adult | $125 per child (5 – 14) – Click here to book
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
A visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a must for anyone interested in animals. While there, you can encounter various species, such as Tasmanian Devils, koalas, quolls, wombats, sugar gliders, echidnas, wallabies and cockatoos.
Children can also learn about the park’s important role in conservation, so there’s plenty to keep them occupied.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Brighton, about a 30 minute drive from the city. You can take the 702 bus from Hobart Transit Centre if you don’t have a car. Keep in mind though, that the bus drops you off about 3 km from the Sanctuary, so this may not be ideal for families with little ones.
A few hours at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the perfect half day trips from Hobart.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and Russell Falls day tour
This 8 hour day tour includes a couple of attractions. First, you’ll visit Salmons Ponds to see a working trout farm, where the kids can feed the fish while you savour a peaceful morning tea break. Next up is Russell Falls, one of the most photogenic spots in the state.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is the day’s last stop before returning to the city.
Price: $185 per adult | $90 per child (4 – 14) | children under 4 are free – Click here to book
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and Kunanyi day tour
For families without a car, a great day trip is to combine a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary with a visit to the Kunanyi – the giant peak that overlooks the city of Hobart.
On this tour, as well as taking in the panoramic views from the summit, you’ll call at historic Richmond, Cascade Gardens, Cascade Brewery, and the Female Factory.
Price: $185 per adult | $93 per child (4 – 16) | children under 4 are free – Click here to book
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary tour from Hobart
These Hobart half day tours include a whistle-stop tour of Hobart, plus transport and the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary entrance fee. A brief stop is made at Richmond on the return trip to Hobart.
Price: $107 per adult | $54 per child (up to 16) – Click here to book
Night tour of Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
Alternatively, you might like to take a guided tour of the animal sanctuary at night. On this trip, you’ll get up close to various nocturnal animals and even feed Tasmanian Devils during the 2.5 hour experience.
Price: $165 per adult | $90 per child (3 – 15) | children under 3 are free – Click here to book
Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs
Around 100 kilometres south of Hobart is the Hastings Caves State Reserve, home to spectacular dolomite caves and the always warm thermal springs.
Exploring the narrow passageways of the caves is an epic experience. Here you’ll come across all kinds of ever changing subterranean formations, such as stalactites, columns and more.
The Visitor Centre is the perfect place for a bite to eat or bring along a family picnic to enjoy.
The cave complex lies in the Huon Valley and is around 1.5 hour drive from Hobart. You can catch a bus from the city interchange, but you must take a taxi from the Huon Highway stop to reach your destination.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider this tour:
Hastings Caves and Tahune Airwalk tour
Cover two top attractions with this day trip. Dare the children to walk 50 metres above the ground by taking the Tahune Airwalk, then visit the Hastings Caves State Reserve to discover the caverns.
During the day, everyone can also enjoy tastings of sweet treats like ice cream, honey and locally-grown fruits, take a dip in the thermal pool and look out for wildlife on the Hot Springs Nature Track.
Price: $156 per adult | $146 per child (8 – 15) – Click here to book
Mount Field National Park
The Mount Field National Park terrain is interesting and varied, ranging from the summit over 1,400 metres above sea level to alpine pastures and temperate eucalyptus rainforest.
The park is referred to as a ‘park for all seasons’ and forms part of Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Site. In Winter, you can see snow-capped Mount Mawson and go skiing, while in autumn, the kids will enjoy kicking around in the orange leaves.
Some highlights at Mount Field National park include natural waterfalls like Russell or Horseshoe Falls, taking a Tall Trees Walk or exploring Lake Dobson.
Mount Field National Park is around 65 km from Hobart, about a 1.5 hours drive – no direct public transport routes exist.
You will require a park pass for visiting Mount Field National Park which you can buy here.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Mount Field National Park and Russell Falls tour
This day trip takes in the best of the Tasmanian wilderness. You’ll visit the Salmon Ponds, the Derwent Valley, and Mount Field National Park. Breathtaking Russell Falls is the visual highlight of this trip.
You’ll learn about native plants and animals throughout the day and taste yummy local produce during morning tea. You can also see gigantic eucalyptus trees towering over you during a bush walk and explore the town of New Norfolk.
Price: $155 per adult | $78 per child (4 – 16) | children under 4 are free – Click here to book
Wilderness Walk at Mount Field National Park
Some say there’s no better state for bushwalking than Tasmania, so why not take a guided walk through Mount Field National Park to make the most of that? Some hiking experience is recommended for this one, and it’s open to kids 10+.
During the 10 km walk, you’ll pass tall trees, waterfalls, rainforests and even Alpine-style valleys and lakes. A picnic lunch is provided.
Price: $155 per adult | $80 per child (10 – 17) – Click here to book
Richmond
Just 25 km from Hobart, a day trip to Richmond is the perfect family outing. This charming Coal River region town is packed with historical sights dating back to Van Diemen’s Land times.
Things to do in Richmond that are great for all ages include exploring the model village, discovering Australia’s oldest jail, sampling food and wine in town, and seeing the old bridge. You can even go to the Pooseum! Yep, that’s right, a museum about poo!
Richmond is easy to reach by car in under half an hour. You can also take a bus operated by Tassielink – the ride takes just 25 minutes, and there are six buses daily.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Richmond Village Shuttle
The shuttle is a great way to get there for a DIY trip to Richmond without a car. The shuttle will take you from Hobart to Richmond and give you 2.5 hours in town to explore at your leisure.
As well as return travel, you get special discounts at Richmond attractions, plus a helpful walking map to guide you through town. Don’t miss the cafes, shops and model village if you’re bringing the kids along.
Price: $35 per adult | $20 per child (6 – 16) | children under 6 are free – Click here to book
Historic Richmond tour
This 5 hour Richmond tour includes transfers, a guided tour and entry to Richmond Gaol.
Price: $83 per adult | $42 per child (4 – 14) | children under 4 are free – Click here to book
Richmond and Kunanyi trip
This Richmond tour also includes a visit to the top of Kunanyi – for panoramic views over the city and southern Tasmania. You’ll then have an hour to spend at the historic waterfront in Hobart before heading to Richmond.
In Richmond, you’ll have 2.5 hours to explore as you wish.
Price: $65 per adult | $40 per child (6 – 16) | children under 6 are free – Click here to book
Kunanyi
Just outside the city centre, Kunanya (Mount Wellington) is around 1,270 metres above sea and is one of the most famous Hobart sights. From the CBD, it’s about a 35 minute drive to the top, which offers fantastic views across Hobart and the surrounding area on a clear day.
Kunanyi is part of Wellington Park, which offers a range of great walks for all fitness levels. You can see waterfalls, lush mosses, gorgeous ferns, and mighty tall eucalypt gums. Most walking tracks start from The Springs or Fern Tree Park – click here for more information.
At the top of Kunanyi is an indoor viewing area and a range of boardwalks taking you to outdoor viewing platforms. In the cooler months, you may even see snow or even experience it actually snowing!
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Mount Wellington Explorer Bus
Now, if you don’t have a car – you can still visit Kunanyi via the Explorer Bus. The bus picks you up from the city, and there are various stops if you wish to enjoy some hiking. Otherwise, stay onboard until you reach the top, where you’ll get 30 minutes to enjoy the views.
Families might also like to hop off at Fern Tree Park, where there’s a play park, a tavern, a picnic area with BBQ grills and a short walking and biking trail.
Price: $35 per adult | $25 per child (6-16) | children under 6 are free- Click here to book
Hobart and Mount Wellington Sightseeing Explorer
An alternative to the classic Mount Wellington Explorer Bus is this one that also takes in the city’s top attractions. The 4 hour tour first takes you to Kunanyi before an official sightseeing tour of Hobart. You can take this as a continuous 90-minute tour or hop on and off as much as you like within 48 hours. The flexibility makes this ideal for families.
Price: $65 per adult | $40 per child (6 – 16) | children under 6 are free – Click here to book
Mount Wellington, Bonorong, Richmond and Mount Field National Park
This 4 hour tour covers all sorts of Hobart attractions. It takes you to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to meet Tasmanian Devils, plus to historic Richmond, Mount Field National Park and of course Kunanyi.
First, you’ll travel via the Derwent Valley to Mount Field National Park to see tall trees and the mighty Russell Falls and explore New Norfolk. After that, it’s non-stop action back to Hobart via Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, Richmond and finally, Kunanyi.
Price: $169 per adult | $139 per child (3 – 15) | $95 per child (0-2) – Click here to book
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Hopefully you’ve found this guide on day trips from Hobart helpful. We have other guides to help plan your trip to Hobart, including things to do in Hobart and where to stay in Hobart.
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