Why this 5 day Tasmania Itinerary is your next unforgettable vacay

5 day Tasmania itinerary

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Tasmania travel tips

Expert Travel Tip

Tasmania’s weather is controlled by 3 converging climate systems – the SAM, IOD and SO – unlike the rest of Australia. There are micro-climates across the island. So weather changes on a dime no matter the season.  Come prepared for all weather, all year and you’ll have a great holiday!

i 3 What we cover

No matter how you like to spend your vacay, this self-drive 5 day Tasmania itinerary starting and ending in Hobart is one hell of a ride. Here’s where to go, and what to do and see for 5 unforgettable days of authentic Tasmania at it’s majestic best. Oh, and a bunch of expert travel hacks and costs, as well as one must know tip to help you get the most out of your 5 day Tassie holiday. We call this one ‘The 5-Day Vacay’.

Here’s the Google Maps 5 Day Tasmanian Itinerary in Google Maps. Check out our Tasmania maps that you can download straight to your phone to get access to this full road trip and all of our experts tips right in your pocket!

Highlights & Attractions

HighlightsAttractionsExperiences
HobartConstitution Dock
Salamanca
Battery Point
MONA
North Hobart
Whiskey tasting, Ghost tour, avante-gard art, historic walks, great food, Colonial history, Antarctica links
Maria IslandMaria Island National ParkAnimals in the wild: wombats, wallabies, kangaroos, bandicoots, Tasmanian Devils, echidna, potaroos, and marine life.
Stunning remote landscapes, and coastal cliffs. Pristine beaches.
Colonial history.
RichmondRichmond Gaol
Richmond Bridge
Bridge street shopping
Coal River Valley
Local wine, cheese, chocolate heritage buildings, cute Georgian cottages, cafes, tasting trail. Colonial era prison and bridge.
Bruny IslandThe Neck
Adventure Bay
South Bruny National Park
Cape Bruny Lighthouse
Costal views, National Park walks, remote beaches,Tasmanian cheese, oysters, beer, cider
Penguins, white wallabies, whales.

Day 1 – Hobart

Driving into Hobart I’m always struck at how close it feels to Antarctica. Like we’re really far south here, and all alone.

It might be the frigid breeze blowing in off the River Derwent. Or the ‘seaward bound’ feel of Constitution Dock, which is invariably where I seem to end up – or begin, that is – whenever I roll into Hobart town.

Hobart. It’s a little city, punching above it’s weight. Well worth the journey to get here and ground zero for your 5 day Tasmania Itinerary.

Rewind about an hour and you’ve just touched down at Hobart Airport, hopped off the plane into some of the freshest air on planet Earth, and hopefully picked up your pre-booked hire car 👇🏽 bound for Hobart City.

Let the adventure begin.

Constitution Dock & Surrounds

5 day self drive travel itinerary from Hobart
Constitution Dock at the epicentre of Hobart is where we start this 5 Day Travel Itinerary

What to do around Constitution Dock? Here’s a long list that’ll keep you busy for more than the allotted timeframe in your Tassie itinerary, so choose wisely or you may miss out on your equally impressive afternoon of Day 1 plans.

  • Explore the boutiques and artisan shops at Salamanca.
  • Puff and pant your way up Kelly’s steps (steep!) to Battery Point. Wander around gawking at the cute & expensive old Georgian cottages and other colonial era homes. Walk up Kelly st admiring the cute and expensive old Georgian houses. Turn left onto left onto Hampden Road. Grab a coffee at Ozus Coffee and wander around Arthur’s Circus for a real old world vibe.
  • Check out Mawson’s Hut on Argyle St to learn about the real connection Tasmania has with Antarctica. The stories are fascinating and the replica hut will surprise you.
  • Draw straws for a dedicated driver then head next door to Mawson’s Hut where you’ll find the Lark (Whiskey) Distillery Cellar Door. Lovers of Tasmania and whiskey, it’s time for your first Tassie tasting flight and why not start with some of Australia’s best single malt?
Kelly's Steps Hobart
Take Kelly’s steps from Salamanca up to Battery Point
Battery Point Heritage Homes
Wander Battery Point’s Heritage Lined Streets
Mawsons Hut Hobart
Check out inside this one of a kind replica Antarctic Hut

If you’re at Constitution Dock on a Saturday, you’ll be lucky enough to stumble right into one of Hobart’s main draw cards – the Salamanca Market. If you’re this lucky, lap it up with a taste of all the local whiskey and gin stalls. What a brilliant way to start your Tassie tour!

MONA

If you have a few under the belt by lunch that’s ok because, hey, you’re on holiday. And the big boat to MONA leaves from Brooke St Pier which is right next door. Sweet! Jump aboard the catamaran and head off to the surreal experience that is Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art.

MONA is bold, unconventional, eclectic and immersive. All reasons you have to go, because it’s hard to capture the living experience of MONA in print. The catamaran ride up the River Derwent isn’t half bad either.

There are some logistical things you need to know, if you want to visit MONA. Check out our expert tips below 👇🏽

Hobart by night

Whether it’s braving the cold winter nights or soaking up long summer ones, Hobart has plenty of nighttime activities to keep you fed, watered, entertained.

Right next to MONA is Moorilla Winery, which is one of Tassie’s oldest. Book in for dinner straight after your tour of MONA. After dinner you’ll need to make your own way back to Hobart or NoHo to enjoy a cocktail, wine, whiskey or gin at Hobart’s funky local bars – the last ferry leaves MONA at 5pm.

Up for a ghoulish adventure? Take a ghost tour at the Hobart Penitentiary by night – bookings essential.

Hobart CBD dining alternatives are VAST! Except if you’re there on Monday or Tuesday night. Then everything is closed. Check out our Tasmania travel tips down below to avoid coming to Hobart on the wrong days👇🏽

Back to dinner options… Urban Greek on Murray Street in the CBD is a treat for your tastebuds. Imagine the very best greek octopus, straight from Tassie waters. Mouth watering.

Bar Wa Izakaya is a happening place to eat with excellent Tapas-like Japanese dishes to share. We loved the pickled Octopus. Grab one of their popular cocktails to top off your evening. Make sure you book a table. We were there Wednesday night and the place was pumping!

For something a little lighter on the hip pocket, In the Hanging Garden is a unique, fun place to dine in Hobart’s CBD. A spot to chow down amongst the plants and soak up the friendly vibes. There’s 5 kitchens to choose from – Italian, Korean, Pizza, Deli sandwiches and Mexican. Literally something for everyone. Load’s of Tasmanian and Australian wines, beers and spirits on the drinks menu makes for a happy crowd of diners. If you’re lucky, you’ll stumble across a live band.

Where to stay in Hobart

Hobart has loads of accommodation options. Decision paralysis is real when trying to book. Our recommendation? Walking distance to the CBD but with onsite parking is best. Because parking in Hobart city can be a nightmare but you’ll need your hire car for day trips too.

From there, it’s about the hitting Hobart’s old town heritage vibe, with a dose of indulgence. Here’s our favourite accommodation in Hobart that crushes these goals, from budget to breathtaking:

  • The Macquarie Hobart $ – Historic Georgian Sandstone with a touch of elegance in killer location for a killer price. Budget travellers ahoy this one’s for you.
  • Sanctum Boutique Apartments $$ – Chic, classy, colonial vibes. Family sized stays too. An apartment of this size and quality under $300 a night in prime city position – rare as hens teeth.
  • Grande Vue $$$ – Boutique and bespoke Battery Point opulence a short walk to Salamanca. If you want to feel like a VIP guest in a gorgeous home with Great Gatsby vibes., this ones for you.
  • Kelly Street Stables $$$ – Bougie beauty in Battery Point. Georgian heritage meets class in this spacious apartment for two just a hop skip from Salamanca. Top value pick. 🏅
  • MACq 01 Hotel (Waterfront Room or Waterfront Terrace) $$$$$ – The closest stay to perfection you’ll get in Hobart’s CBD. If location, views and luxury are your vibe, book a warterfront room at MACq.

Expert tips 🎒

  1. Parking is a bitch in Hobart City. If you’re lucky you’ll snag a street park at Morri near Brooke St Pier, which is your ground zero for the morning’s exploring. You’ll pay for the privilege and be limited to an hour or two. Hopefully you’ve touched down early on that Hobart flight. Sometimes we manage to jag a spot at Morrison St Parking near Brooke St Pier. There’s a one hour limit but it’s super convenient. We just move the car. There’s a multi story carpark above Woolworths on Argyle St that we use too.
  2. If you do get in early, grab a coffee and pastry at the finery of Daci and Daci Bakers. Deee-lish.
  3. Call in to Manky Sally’s at lunchtime for great local beer on tap (Tasmania’s Moo Brew) and tasty food too. Er, that’s a yes from me!
  4. We also love love love Cyclo on Elizabeth St up towards NoHo (North Hobart). The best Vietnamese in Tasmania and it’s affordable.
  5. You can’t just rock up to MONA at any old time. You need to pre-book a time slot to enter the museum.
  6. Also, MONA is only open Friday to Monday and shuts at 5pm. If you don’t arrive in Hobart Friday to Monday, try to squeeze in a visit on Day 5 of your self drive Tasmania holiday.
  7. Boodle Beasley has a cool vibe and excellent cocktails (Espresso Martini please!) after dark.
  8. Gold Bar is snug little hole in the wall serving great cocktails on Tasmanian made spirits just a stone’s throw from Constitution Dock.

Day 2 Maria Island

Day 2 and you’re up early in Hobart as you have 1h20m drive and a ferry to catch at Triabunna at 10am. You’re headed to magical Maria Island (pronounced Ma-rye-ah).

You need to be a little prepared to have a great day on Maria Island. We cover the ‘how tos’ in our Expert Tips at the end 👇🏽

You’ll leave your hire car at the ferry terminal in Triabunna – there’s no cars allowed on the island to protect the wildlife. The ferry is a fun 30 minute experience in itself because the channel is so full of sea life – keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, penguins, and even whales.

Tasmania Itinerary 5 days
Magical Maria Island

You can either walk or hire a bike to get around for the day once you do arrive – you’ll see more of the island on a bike, all the way to McReas isthmus if you’re keen to get that far. Bike hire happens at the same time you pre-book the ferry (which is a must).

This is a walking itinerary for your day on the island. Time is of the essence if you really want to see these 3 sites 👇🏽. The first ferry arrives around 10 am and the last ferry departs around 4. So there’s only 6 hours give or take on the island.

This day trip itinerary is not in order. Because you can only view the Painted Cliffs at low tide, which means you’ll end up organising your day around that one activity.

Wildlife at Darlington

Maria Island is the best spot to see Tasmanian wildlife, in nature. I mean, it’s biblical actually what a wildlife sanctuary this place is, without being an actual wildlife sanctuary. If you know what I mean…

Off the boat head up to Darlington, the historic settlement on Maria Island, where you’ll likely encounter wombats and wallabies roaming freely around the area. It’s a great spot to take loads of photos of the local wildlife, with pretty heritage buildings and sweeping bay views as your backdrop.

Wander through Darlington, and check out the cool old convict-era buildings, including the impressive Penitentiary. This now acts as Maria Island’s main accommodation, other than the camping sites and huts used by multi-day walking tours. The Penitentiary accommodation is a very basic set up but really has everything you need to stay warm, fed and comfortable – you have to bring your own bedding, food, water, cooking equipment etc to stay overnight. Which we did (and thoroughly loved it).

When we stayed there were no showers, but there are flushing toilets. There’s also a mess hall with gas cooking facilities, hot water and a couple of power points to charge devices.

Lunch at the Fossil Cliffs

Take a scenic 2hr walk over to Fossil Cliffs making a loop from Darlington. The Fossil Cliffs are epic and views back to the ‘big island’ stunning.

Have have lunch on this random bench at Fossil Cliffs 👇🏽 where you won’t be able to stop gawking at the 180 degree coastal views and weird geological cliff formations.

Maria Island
Have lunch at the Fossil Cliffs

Make sure to stop at the Probation Station and Maria Island Cemetery on the way. These historic landmarks help piece together Maria Island’s intriguing past.

Painted Cliffs

Painted Cliffs Maria Island at low tide
Painted cliffs are a must see but can only be accessed at low tide

The Painted Cliffs is a beautiful 30 minute walk along the coastline from Darlington., passing wombat habitat along the way. The Painted Cliffs is a must do on Maria Island at low tide. They are known for their vibrant patterns and colours created by iron oxide staining, and groovey, curvy rock formations. Retro vibes indeed. Very insta-worthy!

Explore streams, grasslands, forested areas and pristine beach on your walk – you might catch a glimpse of platypus, endangered bandicoot and potaroos. The best route on foot is via the beach, or you can ride your bike following the dirt road down closer to the cliffs for access.

If you arrive at the Painted Cliffs before low tide, there are rock pools to explore and where you can spot more local marine life.

Take a dip in beautiful Rutherford Beach near the Painted Cliffs if you dare.

Expert tips 🎒

  1. Prebook your Maria Island ferry ticket and your bike hire, if you want to hire a bike.
  2. Pack warm clothes, a hat and a waterproof jacket if you’re on Maria Island outside of the summer season. In case of wind and rain.
  3. Pack your lunch, snacks and all drinking water in a day pack to take with you. There are no shops on the island. Take a large zip lock bag with you as there are also no rubbish bins on the island. You’re expected to bring your rubbish off the island with you.
  4. Use the public toilets when you pass them. There are some as you get off the boat, some at Darlington, and then at French’s Farm and Encampment Cove (accessible by bike).

Day 3 Richmond

On Day 3 you leave Hobart after breakfast for the 40 minute drive to the historic village of Richmond, tucked away in the scenic Coal River Valley.

Day 2 is all about exploring this up and coming food & wine region, as well as the colonial history of Richmond itself. You’ll stay the night in Richmond.

Richmond charms with its colonial architecture dating back to the 1800s. Each time we stay in Richmond it’s like stepping into an enchanted world of colonial Tasmania, full of history and quaint rural vibes. Spend some time wandering through its picturesque back streets lined with sandstone buildings and cottages. It really feels like a journey back in time.

The iconic Richmond bridge is a symbol of Tasmania’s rich heritage and the third oldest bridge in Australia, I think. Drop in, feed the ducks and take some insta-snaps for later.

Coal River Valley
RIchmond Bridge is the 3rd oldest in Australia

Exploring unique attractions like the Richmond Gaol and the charming Richmond Maze and Tearooms adds an extra layer of delight if you’re exploring the village for the first time. With its cute boutique shops, galleries, and cafes, Richmond is the perfect blend of history, shopping, and relaxation.

Coal River Valley

The Coal River Valley around Richmond makes your stay in the area a real Tassie treat. I’m always drawn to the rolling hills and vineyards that dot the landscape when travelling through.

Exploring the region’s renowned wineries will be a highlight on the afternoon of Day 3. As will tastings of exquisite cool-climate wines at some of Australia’s top vineyards like Pooleys Estate and Frogmore Creek.

You’ll also be captivated by the valley’s culinary wares, from berry farm gates brimming with fresh produce to artisanal producers crafting delectable cheeses, chocolates and other treats.

The Coal Valley has the best of Tasmania – breweries, wineries, distilleries, farm-gates, as well as cheese-makers and chocolatiers. And that’s precisely why it’s a finisher on this 5 day Tasmania itinerary. Lap it up.

You’ll spend the night in some charming, historic accommodation in Richmond.

Where to stay in Richmond

The best accommodation in Richmond is the short stay period houses and cottages, run by local hosts. From most affordable to most stately, here are our three favourite unique places to stay that match the hip heritage style of Richmond Village:

  • Mulberry Cottage $$ – in the heart of Richmond a quaint stone cottage surrounded by gorgeous English gardens, includes a breakfast you don’t want to miss
  • A Cottage in Richmond $$$ – exceptional class, wood fire, stunning decor and finishes and generous extras provided by the hosts
  • Prospect Country House and Restaurant $$$$$ – stately historic Georgian manor with grounds and gardens to match. Among few dinner options in Richmond, this is the best.

Expert tips 🎒

  1. Drop in to Coal River Farm and the Wicked Cheese Company for tastings of two top Tassie cheesemakers. Coal River Farm also makes chocolate. And what’s even better than cheese? Chocolate for afters…
  2. Have breakfast on Day 3 at Ashmore Cafe on the main street of Richmond. It’s the best cafe in town.
  3. Our favourite places for dinner in the area are Prospect House (gorgeous old colonial charm) or Barilla Bay Oysters (the name says it all!).
  4. There aren’t many places for dinner in Richmond itself. You’ll need to travel further afield and make sure you book beforehand!
  5. Or you could just put together a sensational platter of charcuterie, with local cheeses, wines and chocolate from all your road trip stops during the day!
  6. Check out this page for more Richmond and Coal River Valley road trip tips.

Day 4 Bruny Island

We recommend kicking off early on Day 4 so you can make the most of the multitude of amazing things to see and do on Bruny Island.

After a visit to Bruny earlier this year, I’ve unearthed a hidden gem or two that will make your one-day adventure truly unforgettable. Over the next few minutes, we’re going to tee you up to experience rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, delicious local seafood and spectacular nature walks.

So Day 4 begins with an early breakfast at Ashmore Cafe in Richmond before the 50 minute drive to Kettering where you’ll catch the ferry to Bruny Island with your car. As you cruise across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and check out unique views of beautiful south coast of Tasmania.

The thing about Bruny Island is there’s actually a North and South part of the island. The most important culinary experiences on Bruny are in the North. The national parks, walks and beautiful beaches are largely in the south. It’s a hour’s drive north to south.

You’ll work your way south from the ferry terminal (on North Bruny), seeing the best of Bruny as you go.

Now that your oriented, lets get to the fun bit!

The Neck

The Neck Truganini Lookout Bruny Island
The isthmus connecting north and south Bruny (Truganini Lookout)

If you arrive mid morning, your first stop off the boat is The Neck, a narrow isthmus (skinny stretch of land) connecting North and South Bruny. Arrive early if you can – it’s a busy stop off due to the spectacular views and unusual land formation.

Take a walk on the white sandy beach and the climb the 274 wooden stairs up to the lookout platform for truly great photos. Take in the panoramic coastline across the isthmus towards South Bruny.

Check our Expert Tips below to learn about one of Bruny’s best kept secrets nearby 👇🏽

Adventure Bay

After soaking in the stunning vistas, you’ll drive to Adventure Bay to spot the enigmatic white wallaby in the wild.

The white wallaby is endemic to Bruny Island. Your best chance of spotting one is on the south side of Adventure Bay Beach, in front and backyards of homes around Adventure Bay Retreat.

White Wallaby Bruny Island Tasmania
Adventure Bay is where to spot the white wallabies

Pop into the general store in Adventure Bay to grab any provisions for the evening and following morning. More on this below 👇🏽

Check out Adventure Bay beach, and then take Adventure Bay Road to the Fluted Cape Carpark where you’ll find the trail head for the Grass Point Track.

Adventure Bay Bruny Island tasmania
Views back to Adventure Bay from the Grass Point Track

We loved this walk. It’s an easy, flat 1.5 hour walk along spectacular coastline. Keep an eye out for the very cool Rockington Rock Tower. You may even spot Southern Right whales passing by between June and October. The best bit about the walk is where it ends…

Follow the path right to the sea and check out Penguin Island, where the crashing waves of the Great Southern Ocean meet the calm seas of Adventure Bay. The result, is as spectacular as it is weird.

If you want to know more about facilities on the Grass Point walk, visit Parks Tasmania.

The 4km walk return to Grass Point will leave you ready for lunch. There’s a lot of choice for a small island. Oysters are popular but the stone-baked pizzas are delectable. Check out our travel tips below for lunch suggestions. 👇🏽

Bruny Island Day overnight trip
You haven’t been to Bruny if you haven’t had the oysters

South Bruny National Park

The final attraction you’ll see on this overnight stay is South Bruny National Park and the Cape Bruny Lighthouse and Lookout, at the southernmost point of the island.

This is a destination not to missed.

Whether you hit it the afternoon of Day 4, or the morning of Day 5 depends on the pace you take on the island.

Cape Bruny Lighthouse is iconic. And a fantastic spot to see Bruny’s big nature – dramatic coastal cliffs, striking landscape and the wild Southern Ocean. You can do a guided tour of the lighthouse, or make your own way around. You do need tickets to visit the top of the lighthouse for the most amazing views. You’ll want to grab your tix online as they don’t sell them at the lighthouse.

Explore the impressive headlands and sparkling Lighthouse Bay Beach, and then head back towards the Isthsmus where you’ll visit Bruny Cheese Co. for a tasting of their cheeses and beers.

Day 4 is a big one so it’s time to retire for the night to one of Bruny Island’s secluded cottages or beachfront cabins for a sunset cheese platter and your favourite Bruny Island Beer. Im partial to their Honey pale Ale and their Farm Ale is great too. If a cheese platter is not your style check our expert tips for the best dinner option on the island. 👇🏽

5 days in Tasmania
Smooth drinking Bruny Island Beer Co Honey Pale Ale
Bruny Island Cheese Co.
Bruny Island Cheese Co and Bruny Island Beer Co. will sort you for dinner

Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise (Optional)

We haven’t done the Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise (yet!) but it is a highlight for many visitors to Bruny Island. What can you expect? We’ve heard about the incredible sea life encounters and impressive cliff faces. The mighty Southern Ocean and the whipping winds. It’s rugged Tasmania, in a boat. And that’s a wild ride.

The cruise leaves from Adventure Bay around 11am and takes 3 hours. In summer there’s extra cruises at 1:30pm.

If you do the Wilderness Cruise on Day 4, it’s unlikely you’ll also fit in Cape Bruny Lighthouse that day. You might sneak in a visit to the lighthouse early the following morning before hiking it back north to the ferry, but note that guided tours of the lighthouse don’t start until 10am.

Where to stay on Bruny Island

Bruny is about escaping, relaxing, adventuring. Your accommodation goals to max out these island vibes are beach, views, and nature. So here’s a list of our perfect Bruny escapes, for all different budgets, with these three things in spades:

  • Shepherd’s Hut Farmstay $ – authentic, charming hut accommodation in nature decorated with loving detail perfect for a couples stay. An outdoor shower & farm fresh bread, eggs and jams from generous hosts. Affordable & will surprise you.
  • Birdsong $$$ – timber cabin-in-the-woods feels but light and airy with giant views of the coast, a firepit and outside bath in nature. There’s absolutely nothing more you need for those Bruny relaxation goals. Sleeps up to 4 guests.
  • Luxury Yurt Glamping at Littlegrove $$$$ – Opulent, exceptional, unique. Romantic yurt bedroom with flashes of Moroccan glam set in an actual olive grove with top-of-mountain views. Full beautiful bathroom, stylish kitchen, private and peaceful. A stunner.
  • Adventure Bay Retreat Bruny Island $$$$ – Rustic mountain timber lodge feels with tall raked ceilings, giant stone fireplaces and cozy leather couches. Walkable to some of Bruny Island’s highlight attractions – Adventure Bay Beach, Bruny Island Cruises, The Fluted Cape walk and white wallabies that hang out in the area. Fab for family stays.

Expert tips 🎒

  1. Grab a Parks Pass before you hit Bruny Island. You’ll need it to do many of the walks including the Grass Point walk in this itinerary.
  2. Hunt down The Bruny Baker Bread Fridge on the corner of Bruny Island Rd and Sheepwash Rd. Buy a loaf of delicious sour dough straight from their roadside fridge! The perfect addition to your sunset cheese platter!
  3. Have lunch at the Bruny Island Oyster Bar ‘Get Shucked’. Eat in from their renowned oyster list and pair it with a local craft beer or glass Tasmania’s famous Pinot Noir. If you don’t want to dine in, grab a takeaway dozen in the world’s first Oyster drive through!
  4. Pop in to Bruny Island Beer Co. and Bruny Island Cheese Co. and pick up everything you need for a sunset cheese and charcuterie platter at your accommodation later in the day. Dinner is optional after this!
  5. Call in to Bruny Island Honey after lunch for a honey ice cream. Thank me later.
  6. Spot Penguins at dusk between September and February near the Truganini Lookout. Follow the signs to find the rookery.
  7. The best dinner you’ll find on Bruny Island is at a new little establishment called The Izzy Bar. It’s at the top end of South Bruny. Their stone-baked pizza is to die for. Don’t leave without trying the baked cheese cake either. There’s an extensive wine menu too. Make sure you reserve a table early as their popularity has outpaced their seating capacity. Lunch is also a great option.
  8. Make sure you have cold and wet weather gear if you’re taking a Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise.
👀 Important: Fill up your car before heading over to the island and grab whatever you need for and early breakfast on Day 5. There’s not a lot of grocery options on Bruny.

Day 5 Hobart

On Day 5 you’ll rise early on Bruny Island and make your way to the ferry (or to Cape Bruny Lighthouse). It’s time to go back to the big island (Tassie) and to Hobart, your final destination and day of this itinerary.

If you missed MONA and you’re on a late flight out, now is your chance.

Alternatively, Kunanyi is a great way to say farewell to Hobart and Tasmania’s south.

Kunanyi is the First Nations name for Mt Wellington. It dominates the Hobart skyline and because of it’s strategic location, has jawdropping views over the city, the River Derwent and out to surrounding islands and bays.

Hobart and the South Mt Wellington
Hobart and surrounds from Mt Wellington

If you’re heading up the mountain, rug up. We were up there last in the middle of summer and nearly froze solid despite our padded jackets and gloves. It’s a eye opening experience and the perfect way to wrap up this wild 5-day Tasmanian vacay adventure.

Tips to get the most out of your 5 day Tasmania itinerary

If you only have 5 days, then timing your stay by day of the week in Tasmania is super important to getting the most our of your Tasmania itinerary. Why? Because a lot of business in Tasmania are closed on a Monday.

So how do you maximise your self drive holiday around this?

We recommend:

  1. arriving in Hobart early on a Saturday. MONA is open Saturday. It’s also the best day of the week to experience Hobart, day and night. Arriving on Saturday means that by Monday, you’ll be exploring nature on Maria Island where there’s no business anyway!
  2. arrive in Hobart in the morning on Day 1, and depart in the afternoon on Day 5.

This is a self drive itinerary that you can follow in all seasons. Winter too. Just know that some small businesses on Bruny Island close over Tasmania’s winter (June – August).

How to get around Tasmania

You really need to hire a car in Tasmania. There’s very little public transport. That’s because Tasmania’s population is only just under 600,000 people. So the cost of that infrastructure per person is just too high.

That’s why this is a self drive Tasmania itinerary.

The bad news is that hire cars are expensive in Tassie. Not because Tasmania’s a rip off for hire cars. But because everyone has to hire one. Demand is high, so you have to book well in advance to get a good hire car deal.

Driving in Tasmania is a mixed bag. Road conditions are highly dependent on where you go. Most visitors fear Tasmania’s narrow, winding roads and icy winter driving.

Road conditions on this itinerary are good. Major highways and dual carriage rural roads. Low altitude and coastal locals, so ice is not a big problem. The one exception is the drive up to Kunanyi, which is both winding and icy in winter.

How much is this 5 day self drive Tasmania holiday?

Because we’ve put together a rip snorting adventure in this 5 day Tassie itinerary, it’s not going to be a budget holiday. Based on travel we’ve done in 2024, the entire

In 2023, the average visitor to Tasmania spent around $300 per night here. That doesn’t include flights.

Our costs while travelling here put a self drive 5 day vacay at $740 a day for 2 persons. Plus flights. Plus Ferries. Total cost of this 5 day Tasmania holiday? A touch under $4400.

ExpenseAve cost per day (2 persons)
Accommodation$250
Hire car$120 (hatchback)
Entry tickets, bike hire etc$50
Food and drink$300
Extras$20
Total cost per day$740
Return Flights (ex Melbourne)$720
Mona Ferry, Maria Island ferry, Bruny Island Ferry$214
Grand total trip cost$4384

This budget includes eating and drinking at of our local recommendations. But with some budget accommodation and food choices, less drinking and fewer paid activities, you’d spend less. Probably around the $600 a day mark.

FAQs

Is 5 days enough for Tasmania?

5 days is not nearly enough to see all of Tasmania.

But it is enough for an authentic and unforgettable Tasmanian experience, if you know where to go and what to see and do. That’s exactly what our 5 day Tasmania self drive itinerary from Hobart 👆🏼 delivers!

Is Hobart or Launceston better?

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania, larger than Launceston and has more things to do within the city. A more active nightlife scene.

But Launceston stands alone for it’s world class foodie scene – the excellent restaurants, breweries, wineries, and cafes turning Tassie fresh produce into dishes you won’t get elsewhere in Australia.

What is the best month to Visit Tasmania?

The best month to travel here is April, which is Autumn, as the leaves change colour leaving the island dotted in red, orange and gold. The weather is still relatively dry, but the nights cool enough to get warm and cozy inside.

Tasmania has something unique to offer in every season. We love winter here, because we love cosy fires in cold weather and can pop up the road to see snow.

If you like it warm, come in summer.

This 5 day itinerary is not limited to one season. Do it any time of year. You’ll just get a different experience each time.

What to see in Tasmania in 5 days?

If you’re flying into Hobart and you have 5 days in Tasmania, we recommend you rent a car and see these incredible destinations:

Hobart: for Constitution Dock, Salamanca, colonial and Antarctic history, MONA, and for the restaurants, distilleries and breweries.
Maria Island: for the scenery, nature and wildlife in their natural habitat (Wombats, Devils, Bandicoots)
Richmond & the Coal River Valley: for incredible Tasmanian produce and food and wine experiences, gorgeous colonial buildings and boutique shopping
Bruny Island: for the food trail, the ithsmus, beaches and bays, the wild rugged scenery and Cape Bruny Lighthouse.

This is an easy itinerary. It leaves you with enough time to take in the sights and really experience the best South Tasmania has to offer – the food, distilleries, history, culture, beaches, bays and incredible wildlife.

If you’re not planning on renting a car, this 5 day best of Tasmania tour is a great alternative. It will take you for a lap around the island where you’ll see a snapshot of big tourist attractions – like Cradle Mountain, the Bay of Fires and Freycinet National Park (wineglass bay). It’s a busy tour but great value. So if you’re keen to see as much as possible in your 5 days here, book fast. It’s a popular ‘highlights’ tour and likely to sell out.

What to see in Tasmania in 6 days?

If you have 6 days in Tasmania we highly recommend this 6 day Tasmanian Adventure tour.

This epic trip takes you through Tassie’s most iconic destinations: the pristine beaches of the Bay of Fires, the trails of Freycinet National Park, and the stunning vistas of Cradle Mountain. You’ll also visit the food central (Launceston) and historic but grim Port Arthur. There’s opportunities for wildlife encounters, beachcombing, and sampling local cuisine – it’s a great balance of adventure and relaxation.

And best of all its pretty darn good value. So get in quick as spots on this tour will sell out.

Tasmania Trails travel blog about us

Written by Tara

I'm a Chinese speaking, semi-retired ex Australian Diplomat reinvented as a renewable energy and climate change advisor to governments in the 2000s. I now live in rural Tasmania and love it here, spending all my spare time exploring and adventuring this gift of an island with my partner. And sometimes my 2 Hungarian Vizslas come along too!

9 Mar, 2024

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