If you’re looking for the best things to do in Hobart with kids, then you’ll love this guide covering all the must do family activities in Hobart.
With multiple attractions in Hobart related to our convict beginnings, Hobart is a great destination for families with older curious children. However, even if you’re visiting with younger children, there are plenty of Hobart things to do, including beautiful walking trails, parks and some great little areas for sampling the delicious local food.
If you’re in town for a few days or more, there are some great day trips from Hobart. You can visit Port Arthur, go on a wildlife cruise, see Tasmanian Devils, explore caves and hot springs and gaze in awe at Wineglass Bay.
This guide will cover all the best things Hobart offers families, as well as provide tips on getting to the Hobart CBD from the airport, getting around Hobart and the best family accommodation Hobart offers.
So let’s get started and look at all the top things to do in Hobart with kids.
Talk to other families about their tips on visiting Hobart and join our Thrifty Family Travel Facebook Group or be inspired by our Instagram.
This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to my disclaimer here for more information.
Page Contents
Best Things to do Hobart Map
To help plan your trip and decide which fun things to do in Hobart with the kids, I’ve provided the map below, which shows the location of the Hobart tourist attractions covered in this guide.
Zoom in and out for a better view of all these best places to visit in Hobart.
Best Things to do in Hobart with Kids
This section provides a comprehensive guide to the best things to see in Hobart with kids. In addition, it includes detailed information to make planning your itinerary easier, such as the location of the top Hobart attractions, opening hours and ticket prices.
All the pricing for the things to do around Hobart is in AUD. Check the rate in your local currency here.
Cascades Female Factory
A visit to Cascades Female Factory takes you back to the days when Tasmania was known as Van Diemen’s Land. This is one of the top things to see in Hobart for anyone interested in women’s history – or the development of Australia.
The female factory (as women’s prisons were known back then) operated as a jail for women convicts who were sent to Van Diemen’s Land between 1803 to 1853.
It was not a nice place to be, as the site was a place of punishment and reform. Many arrived with their children, who were quickly taken away and the women spent their days working within the cold walls. Due to the poor working and living conditions, many became ill and died in prison, as did many of their children.
It wasn’t all bad for some prisoners. Some arrived in Australia after living in extreme poverty in Britain. The “better behaved” women worked outside the prison for local families; some even eventually left, married, and started their own families. They lived a life they never could if they had remained in Britain.
Around 7000 women were sent to the Female Factory until transportation stopped in 1853. The factory later became a welfare home and today is one of 11 sites on the World Heritage List as an Australian Convict Site.
You will need a little imagination to explore the Female Factory, as most buildings have long gone. However, your entry includes a self guided audio tour, which will help you understand the site and share with you the women’s stories.
I’d also recommend the guided Convict Women’s Tour (optional extra), which goes for 40 minutes and runs around five times daily. Or watch the story unfold by witnessing the Proud and Punished (optional extra) dramatised performance held at midday.
To ensure the kids are engaged, collect a ‘Factory Tales’ kids’ activity booklet on arrival. This gets the kids involved by getting them to find things and then being rewarded with stamps.
Also, if you happen to visit during the school holidays, this is one of the Hobart places to visit, which runs special programs for kids – be sure to reach out and find out what’s on during your visit.
Location: 16 Degraves St, South Hobart
Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 4.30 pm
Price: $25 per adult | $10 per child | $60 per family
Hobart Convict Penitentiary
The Cascades isn’t the only option for those wondering what to see in Hobart related to Tasmania’s past. The Convict Penitentiary also traces the history of crime and punishment; a must do in Hobart for anyone interested in Australian convict history.
Hobart Convict Penitentiary was an interesting place – as it served various purposes over the years it was in operation. For one, it is the only church in the world with solitary confinement cells under its pews!
The Penitentiary also houses a courtroom with a fascinating tunnel system underneath – so the prisoners could come straight from their cells to the dock without walking through to the courtroom.
Of course, these were the days of capital punishment, so the site also has gallows and an execution yard. Seeing this in all its gory glory is somewhat creepy – but interesting nonetheless.
You can only explore the Penitentiary by guided tour – which means you’ll hear some fascinating stories along the way. Of course, the kids will also get to ask all their gory questions and have the chance to sit inside one of those confinement cells – if they dare!
If you’re brave, you can also take a ghost tour at night, which may be a bit too creepy for some kids or even parents. I did this tour while I was in town and found it absolutely fascinating and not overly scary – although walking through pitch black tunnels was a little freaky. Certainly, one of the more unique things to do in Hobart.
Location: Campbell Street and Brisbane Street, Hobart
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday with tours departing 10 am, 11.30 am, 1 pm and 2.30 pm
Price: $25 per adult | $15 for kids | $65 per family
MONA Museum
MONA is an acronym for the Museum of Old and New Art. So if you’re a fan of art from any era, you must add MONA to your Hobart sightseeing list.
MONA houses collector David Walsh’s personal assortment of artworks displayed on three underground levels. You can discover these via the innovative “O” handheld device that helps you interpret what you see.
I’m not overly an arty person, and I’m not sure I totally got MONA. Some of the artwork is a little confronting and certainly not for children’s eyes. But there are a few fun interactive rooms and more immersive artworks that I found interesting – like the Confessional Room – where you go inside a tiny room – which is connected to the outside, and you can have random conversations with people as they walk past without seeing them.
One place I know the kids are going to love for sure is the musical trampoline outside by Canadian Japanese artist Toshiko Horiuchi MacAdam.
If you visit MONA, I highly recommend you take the ferry from the CBD. The high speed catamaran in its army camouflage colours is super funky. Decked out more like a cool beer garden, with its funky tunes, fake grass and even some sheep for seats – the kids will love that!
The cruise into MONA takes just 25 minutes and a ticket costs $25 return. It also means you enjoy the city sites along the Derwent River, thus ticking off another of the things to do with kids in Hobart.
Allow around 1.5 to 2 hours to explore MONA – not including the ferry ride.
Location: 655 Main Road, Berriedale
Opening Hours: Friday to Monday from 10 am to 5 pm
Price: $35 per adult | $10 for kids | under 12s are free – although everyone requires a timed ticket
Historic Waterfront Area
The waterfront area is a must see in Hobart and you’ll find plenty of locals spending time here as well as visitors. Victoria and Constitution Docks are at the centre of the action, and the latter is the finish line for the famous – and incredibly tough – Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. So expect crowds if you visit just before New Year!
It’s virtually obligatory to tuck into a hearty portion of fish and chips while you’re here. Seafood is also a speciality at the local restaurants – and there are some outstanding ones to pick from. The great thing is that all kids seem to adore this classic family meal too! Head to Mures Fish Centre on Victoria Dock or Elizabeth Street Pier for a great selection.
Some historical places of interest in Hobart can also be seen in the waterfront area. Take a walk along Hunter Street, and you can see a line of Georgian warehouses plus the 1820 causeway that once linked Hunter Island to Wapping, a suburb that formerly stood here.
Location: Franklin Wharf, Hobart
Opening Hours: Always
Price: Free
Tasmania Museum and Art Gallery
The Tasmania Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) can be found on the historic waterfront and is one of the most popular things to do in Hobart on a rainy day – or any day for that matter. People flock here to see the art collection and learn about Tasmania’s past and connection with Antarctica. Within the 2,000 square metre site, there’s something for everyone.
TMAG is firmly committed to being family-friendly, so a range of interactive resources and a programme of activities are offered. There’s the gallery, especially for children aged 0 to 7, the Kids in Museums Manifesto as well as other family fun festivals and Discovery Days.
The Museum even has free guided tours from Friday to Sunday at 11 am and 1.30 pm.
Location: Dunn Place, Hobart
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10 am to 4 pm | Closed Monday
Price: Free | Special exhibitions may require a ticket purchase
Kunanyi (Mount Wellington)
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. On the day I visited, it was cloudy – but the cloud was moving quite fast, so I still enjoyed some of the views. It even snowed! And it was mid October – so do come prepared and dress warmly.
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.
Taking the Explorer Bus to the top of Kunanyi is one of the best things to do in Hobart without a car.
Location: Pinnacle Road, Hobart
Opening Hours: Always – but can close due to snow
Price: Free – unless you book the Explorer Bus, which is $35 per adult, $25 per child and under 6 free- Click here to book tickets online
Mount Nelson Signal Station Lookout
Kunanyi isn’t the only spot where you can get great views across Hobart – the Mount Nelson Signal Station Lookout provides great 180 degree views of the city as well as the Tasman Peninsula and Bruny Island.
Originally set up as a signal station to send and receive messages from Port Arthur – particularly when convicts had escaped, the signal station is now a great lookout with toilets and even a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.
A 90 minute walking loop to and from Truganini Reserve can also be accessed from here. There are various native flora and fauna, including summer wildflowers and the endangered Swift Parrot. The vegetation en route varies and includes a rainforest gully.
A trip to Mount Nelson is one of the fabulous free things to do in Hobart and it’s only 8 kilometres from the city. By car, the trip takes about 20 minutes.
Location: 700 Nelson Road, Mount Nelson
Opening Hours: Always
Price: Free
Battery Point History Walk
Battery Point was once a crowded location that housed the poor. Today it’s one of the most affluent suburbs of Hobart, with these old cottages restored to stunning homes for the wealthy.
The history of Battery Point dates back to 1805, when the land was granted to Reverend Robert “Bobby” Knopwood in recognition of his role as a clergyman and magistrate to the fledging colony. Bobby built his home in Battery Point, the very first residence in the area.
Today one of the interesting things to do in Hobart city is a self guided walk around Battery Point, known as ‘in Bobby’s Footsteps’. You can downland a detailed walk guide via this link, which will give you detailed information about the area’s early history.
By following “in Bobby’s Footsteps,” you’ll follow narrow lanes, passing gorgeous colonial cottages en route. If you don’t have time to do the entire walk, some places to check out include Arthurs Circus, Narryna Heritage Museum (see below) and St George’s Anglican Church – the sandstone structure was built in 1838 and is known locally as ‘the light on the hill’.
For visitors coming to Hobart to discover more about its early history, a visit to Battery Point is one of the 10 top things to do in Hobart.
It’s easy to reach Battery Point, as it’s just a short walk from the city’s centre, just behind Salamanca’s area.
And for the kids, they’ll be pleased to know there is a great little lolly shop in Battery Point and several cafes selling yummy treats.
Location: Starts on Montpelier Retreat, Battery Point
Opening Hours: Always – although the walk is best done via the day when the shops are open.
Price: Free
Narryna Heritage Musuem
While exploring Battery Point, stop by the Narryna Heritage Museum – one of the finest buildings in the area. In the 1830s, Narryna was the home of a wealthy merchant. Over time its been the home of many large families, as well as a boarding house and a hospital.
Today Narryna is a museum where visitors can explore a range of rooms furnished as they once were in the 19th century, see the collection of colonial art and costumes and wander the manicured gardens.
On Tuesdays, at 10.30 am, they also have guided tours where you’ll learn about the convict women that worked at the home.
Unfortunately, Narryna was closed the day I was exploring Battery Point, so I didn’t get to see inside the Museum for myself.
Location:103 Hampden Road, Battery Point
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm
Price: $10 per adult | $5 per child
Derwent River Cruise
A great way of seeing the city is to take a cruise. For many, taking a boat trip is one of those must dos in Hobart that appeals to people of all ages.
There is a range of cruises you can take down the Derwent River – if you don’t want to book anything in advance, just pop down to the waterfront, and you’ll have a range of options.
Lunch river cruises are a popular choice among families. These are pretty “cruisy” as you can sit back and relax while enjoying the sites along the river as well as having a bite to eat. Click here for more information.
Or you can take longer cruises such as the Pennicott Cruise, which takes you out to the Iron Point lighthouse, Australia’s oldest. On the way, you can also catch sight of some other things to see in Hobart city, including Battery Point, Mount Wellington, the Shot Tower and Wrest Point Casino. Click here for more information.
Salamanca Market
On Saturday mornings, the Salamanca Market is the place to be. This award-winning retail experience is one of the top things to see and do in Hobart for the whole family.
Salamanca Place is next to the historic waterfront and takes place weekly unless extreme weather is expected. If this is the case, an alert will appear on the market’s official Facebook page.
Browsing the 230 plus stalls is among the best things to do in Hobart in winter or summer. You can buy just about anything here, from clothing, coffee and craft supplies to vinyl records, homeware and handmade items.
Location: Salamanca Place, Hobart
Opening Hours: Saturday from 8:30 am to 3 pm
Price: Free
Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum
For those with an interest in Antarctica, a trip to the Mawson’s Hut Replica Museum is worth doing.
This is a small museum housed inside a replica of the main hut used in Cape Denison as the main base in the 1911 – 1914 Australasian Antarctic Expedition led by geologist Douglas Mawson. While other expeditions had been held before, this was the world’s first truly scientific venture to Antarctica.
A visit to the Museum will give you an understanding of the history and achievements of the expedition – which was the first of its kind being financed and led from Australia. It also gives you a feel for what life is like living in the coldest place on earth!
Despite time past and the harsh conditions of Antarctica, the original building still stands today. A true testament to Mawson’s design
Allow around 30 to 45 minutes to check out Mawson’s Huts.
Location: Morrison St and Argyle Street Hobart
Opening Hours: Daily 10 am to 5 pm
Price: $15 per adult | $5 per child | $35 per family
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
While there are botanical gardens in many Australian cities, Tasmania’s stand out because of the cooler climate here. This means you can expect to see a different range of plants. The gardens are within the Queens Domain in northeast Hobart and provide plenty of space for children and adults to explore.
Exploring the gardens is one of the best things to do in Hobart with a family when you want some fresh air but don’t want to spend too much money. The only Subantarctic Plant House in Australia is located here, and you can join a tour of the 14 hectare site if you like.
Other places to visit within the gardens include the lily pond, the Japanese garden, the floral clock, the community kitchen garden and, of course the native Tasmanian plant collection. Only a gold coin donation is expected for entry, making this one of the cheap things to do in Hobart.
Location: Lower Domain Road, Hobart
Opening Hours: Daily 8 am to 5 pm
Price: Gold coin donation ($1 or $2 coin)
Best Day Trips from Hobart
If you have the time, I can’t recommend enough to either hire yourself a car and take a day trip from Hobart or book yourself into one of the Hobart day tours.
Below we briefly cover some of the very best day trips from Hobart. Click here for our detailed guide on Hobart day trips.
Port Arthur Day Tour
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 one of the top ten things to do in 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 across 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. There is also plenty of space for the kids to run freely if they need to let off some steam.
Port Arthur is around 90 kilometres from Hobart. It’s an hour-and-a-quarter’s drive from the city, or 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:
Tasmanian Devils and Port Arthur day tour
Visit Port Arthur Historic Site, Richmond Historical Village and the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo in one day with this popular 10 hour day trip covering various Hobart things to do with kids.
You’ll also see the Tasman Arch and the Devil’s Kitchen rock formations and stop at a chocolate factory and a Hobart lookout.
Price: $142 per adult | $133 per child (8-15) – Click here to book
Tasmanian Peninsula and Port Arthur day tour
Visit Port Arthur Historic Site and see more of the Tasmanian Peninsula with this 10 hour day trip. It covers Richmond village, the Pirate’s Bay lookout and natural rock structures such as the Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen during the 25 minute harbour cruise. All great things to do in Hobart with children, as they’ll love sailing away across the Tasman Sea for an adventure!
Price: $140 per adult | $135 per child – Click here to book
Port Arthur and Tasman Peninsula Cruise tour
This tour combines the two most popular Port Arthur attractions – the historic site as well as a wilderness cruise.
The 10.50 hour tour includes a three hour Tasman Peninsula cruise, one of the best things in Hobart to do from the water. You’ll see seabirds, caves, rock formations and even whales and dolphins if you’re lucky.
In addition, you’ll get 3 hours to explore the Port Arthur Historic Site.
Price: $280 per adult | $190 per child (3 – 16) – Click here to book
Bruny Island Day Tour
If you’re the sort of family that loves the beach, waterholes, nature and wildlife and are wondering what to do with kids in Hobart – then you need to head to Bruny Island! Here you can spot rare white wallabies, marvel at the stunning coastline and let the children try the local oysters if they dare.
To reach Bruny Island, you can drive about 35 kilometres from Hobart to the Kettering ferry terminal; then the boat trip takes about 20 minutes. There are no public buses on the island, so you may find taking a day tour easier.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Bruny Island day tour from Hobart
Go way beyond those Hobart CBD things to do with this action-packed 10 hour tour. It shows you the highlights of Bruny Island in a completely stress-free way.
Adults and kids will enjoy visiting Cape Bruny Lighthouse and Bruny Island Neck Lookout, encountering local wildlife, gazing at Tasmania’s jaw-dropping coastline, and savouring local foodie delights. You might even get to swim in the sea in summer!
Price: $145 per person – Click here to book
Island, Cape Bruny Lighthouse and Foodie day tour
For kids and grown-ups who love to feast, this 10 hour tour is for you. Morning tea, lunch and visits to local food producers are included – and they’re definitely meal breaks with a view. Testing island produce is one of the best things to do in Hobart as a family when you all love your food. Plus, the kids will love spotting wildlife such as whales, echidnas, eagles and the resident white wallabies.
Price: $215 per adult | $195 per child (0 – 11) – Click here to book
Bonorong Wildlife Park Day Tour
One of the fun things to do in Hobart for kids is to take a trip to the Bonorong Wildlife. Here they can see Tasmanian Devils, koalas, wombats, sugar gliders, wallabies and more. They can also learn about the role of conservation work during their visit.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is about a 30 minutes’ drive from Hobart, or you can take the 702 bus from the transit centre plus a three kilometre walk or book an organised tour.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary tour from Hobart
This half day trip includes a quick tour of Hobart plus your Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary entrance fee and transport. Historic Richmond village is also included on the return trip.
The four hour tour is packed with things to see, so even little ones won’t have time to get bored. If you’re seeking things to do in Hobart with toddlers, this could be the best way to tire them out.
Price: $105 per adult | $55 per child (up to 16) – Click here to book
Night tour of Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the more fun and weird things to do in Hobart is to take a night tour of the wildlife sanctuary. Everyone can get up close to a range of nocturnal animals and feed the resident Tasmanian Devils during the evening.
Length: 2.5 hours
Price: $165 per adult | $90 per child (3 – 16) – Click here to book
Hastings Cave Day Tour
The Hastings Caves State Reserve is a natural attraction south of Hobart, where there are hot springs, walking trails, and caverns.
You can bathe in the thermal pool during all seasons, so it’s a great place to bring kids. Picnicking is also popular and one of the most affordable things to do in the Hobart area rather than eating at pricey places.
The complex is around an 1.5 hour drive from Hobart. You can get there via a bus ride and a taxi trip, but an organised tour is easier if you’re not driving.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider this tour:
Hastings Caves and Tahune Airwalk tour
Cover two family favourites with this day trip. Walk 50 metres above the ground by taking the Tahune Airwalk, then explore the caverns. You can also sample local treats such as ice cream, honey and fruits, go wildlife-spotting on the Hot Springs Nature Track and swim in the thermal pool.
Price: $156 per adult | $146 per child (8 – 15) – Click here to book
Coles Bay to Wineglass Bay Cruise
Hop on a cruise from Coles Bay to Wineglass Bay to see all the wildlife of the water as well as some of Freycinet National Park’s key sights.
Sightseeing cruise from Coles Bay to Wineglass Bay
Take a 4.5 hour cruise from Coles Bay to view the incredible Wineglass Bay from the water. En route, kids will love to look out for spot sea eagles, dolphins or even migrating whales. This cruise includes a delicious lunch onboard.
Price: $155 per adult | $95 per child (3 – 16) – Click here to book
Richmond Day Tour
Richmond is a historic town in the Coal River region that dates back to Van Diemen’s Land times. A family day trip here is well worthwhile as you can sample food, explore the model village, see the old bridge and discover Australia’s oldest jail. You can even go to the Pooseum! Yep that’s right a museum about poo!
You can drive to Richmond from Hobart in under half an hour or use the bus service operated by Tassielink, which takes just 25 minutes. There are six buses per day.
If you prefer for someone else to take care of the driving, then consider one of these tours:
Historic Richmond tour
Taking this 5 hour Richmond tour is one of the best things to do in the Hobart area when you want to explore beyond the city. Transfers, entry to Richmond Gaol and a guided tour are included.
Price: $85 per adult | $45 per child (4 – 14) – Click here to book
Richmond and Mount Wellington trip
This 7 hour tour takes you to the top of Kunanyi for 360 degree views over southern Tasmania and the city – one of the most amazing things to do in Hobart. You’ll also spend an hour at the historic waterfront and have 2.5 hours to explore Richmond as a family.
Price: $65 per adult | $40 per child (6 – 16) – Click here to book
Best Family Accommodation – Hobart
Not quite sure where to stay in Hobart with kids? Below, we’ve covered our top three picks for the best family accommodation Hobart offers. Each of these hotels offers great value and are in excellent locations for sightseeing around Hobart.
Click here for our more detailed guide on Hobart accommodation for families.
Argyle Accommodation
Although nothing flashy, The Argyle offers families great value accommodation in a central location. Here you’re right next to Woolworths, where you can pick up supplies, as well as being just around the corner from the Mall, full of shops and places to eat.
Rooms are basic, accommodating families of 4 in a large bed and a set of bunk beds. The rooms are studio style and fairly basic but come with tea and coffee making facilities, a TV and free wifi. There is also a small dining table with chairs.
The accommodation also has a communal kitchen, perfect for preparing basic meals for the family. A coin operated laundry is also available and a basic breakfast is included daily.
The Argyle Accommodation is perfect for families wanting nothing but great value accommodation in a central location for exploring Hobart.
Click here for more information and to check the current price.
Central Hotel
Located right on the Elizabeth Street Mall, the Central Hotel – is as the name suggests – in a super central location. Here you’re surrounded by shops and places to eat and just 400 metres from the waterfront.
While the Central Hotel can accommodate families of up to 4 people – keep in mind that rooms only come with one double and one single bed. So these rooms are really only suitable for families of 3 or families with young children that are small enough to share a bed.
Rooms are studio style coming with tea and coffee making facilities, a TV and a small table and chairs.
Families not wanting to venture far for food will appreciate the on-site restaurant and bar. Food prices are really good, and there is a great kids’ menu too.
If you’re looking for a hotel in a top location, you really can’t go past the Central Hotel.
Click here for more information and to check the current price.
Hotel Grand Chancellor
One of the more expensive hotels in the city, the Hotel Grand Chancellor, has prime position on the waterfront with some great facilities for families to enjoy. Being located on the waterfront – you’re just a short walk away from all of Hobart’s popular attractions and easy access to some great places to eat.
Hotel rooms at the Grand Chancellor are studio style, coming with two large beds. Rooms are beautifully furnished and offer plenty of space; some rooms even have water views. The rooms also feature tea and coffee making facilities, a TV and a minibar.
After a day of sightseeing, families will appreciate the hotel’s heated indoor pool. The hotel also has a sauna and gym.
While the hotel is surrounded by some great places to eat, on those days you don’t want to travel far; you’ll appreciate the on site restaurant, bar and lounge. On site parking is also available.
Overall, the Grand Chancellor is the perfect hotel for families who don’t mind paying a little more for the beautiful location and great on-site facilities.
Click here for more information and to check the current price.
Getting from Hobart Airport to City Centre
Unless you’re getting picked up or hiring a car, there are really just two ways to get from the Hobart airport to the city centre – either by Skybus or taxi / Uber.
Generally, an Uber will be the most cost effective and convenient way for a family to get to and from the Airport. It costs around $35 one way with an Uber.
If, however there is just one adult and a few kids, the Skybus will be cheaper as it’s $19.50 per adult or $39 per adult return – kids are free (up to 4 children). However, carting kids and luggage around may not always be convenient. Plus you’ll still have to walk from the bus stop in town to your hotel.
Still, the Skybus does come regularly and given the CBD is fairly small, you shouldn’t have to walk too far from the bus stop to your hotel.
You can book your Skybus ticket here.
If you require further information about getting to and from the airport, click here for our detailed guide.
Getting Around Hobart
Within the city centre, getting around Hobart is relatively easy as you can walk to most tourist attractions.
However, there are several attractions on the city’s outskirts, such as Mount Wellington or the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site, that you’ll require transportation, particularly if you’re short on time.
Hobart does have a decent bus network which will get you around to most of the city attractions. You can either pay cash onboard or purchase a Greencard to use the bus.
Most bus rides around the city will cost you $3.50 with cash or $2.80 with the Greencard. Children are $1.90 with cash or $1.52 with the Greencard – kids under five are free. There are also daily travel caps.
You can use Google Maps or the Metro Trip Planner to plan your bus route. You can even download the App to your phone and get real time updates.
If you’re only visiting a few attractions you can’t walk to, you may find using Uber and taxis the cheaper option than hiring a car. However, if you plan to visit places further afield from Hobart, it may be worth considering just hiring a car for a few days when you really need to.
Another option for getting around to some of the attractions is via the Hop on Hop off buses. If you’re short on time though, you may find their timetables a bit tricky to fit in all the sightseeing you want to do though. So do consider this before purchasing passes. You can buy Hop on Hop off bus passes here.
Click here for our more detailed guide to getting around Hobart.
____________________________________________________________
Hopefully you’ve found this guide on things to do in Hobart helpful. We have other guides to help plan your trip to Hobart, including the best Hobart day trips and where to stay in Hobart.