This 7 day Tasmania Travel Itinerary hits different: spectacular spots & remarkable road trips

So you want an epic holiday in Tasmania, but don’t know where to go or what to do? We live here. We travel extensively. We got you. Nicknamed ‘The Sojourn’, this 7 day Tasmania Travel Itinerary will guide you through jaw-dropping natural wonders, haunting historic sites, insta-worthy beaches and bays, charming rural landscapes and magical mountain vistas. All in the one spectacular 7 day Tasmanian holiday!

Because we’ve built this itinerary from our own Tassie travels, we’ve added some insider tips – our favourite restaurants, cafes, secret spots – to make your holiday here just that bit ‘extra’. So what are you waiting for!

Why follow this 7 day Tasmania itinerary?

You get an incredible, tried and tested Tasmania self drive holiday, put together for you to avoid the tedious internet scrolling for the best places to see in Tasmania. And you’ll save money on paying for tours or travel agents.

We get to share our passion for travelling this incredible island and the secrets we discover along the way. And who doesn’t love independent travel using tips from seasoned locals!

Time to get exploring!

How to get to Tasmania

There are two major airports in Tasmania – Launceston and Hobart. Both are serviced by flights from Australia’s major capital cities. They’re also both excellent points to kick off your self drive Tassie Holiday. The majority of visitors to Tassie fly in to the capital Hobart, so this itinerary kicks off at Hobart Airport.

If you’re coming from a regional centre, it’s likely you’ll have a stop over in Melbourne before flying into Launceston or Hobart.

If you’re coming on the Spirit of Tasmania, you’ll arrive in Devonport. It’s at the wrong end of the island for this road trip. So check out this self-drive Tasmania itinerary that leaves from Devonport instead.

7 Day Tasmania Travel Itinerary: ‘The Sojourn’

What’s included: We call this trip ‘The Sojourn’ because it’s a best highlights of Tasmania journey.

Travel Type: Self drive holiday

Who’s it for: first time visitors to Tassie

Time: 6 nights, 7 days.

Arriving & departing: Hobart Airport

Regions visited: Hobart & the South, East Coast, Launceston & the North, North West Tasmania.

Highlights & attractions

This 7 Day Tasmania Itinerary is packed with many of Tasmania’s top destinations, ‘must see’ locations, and ‘must do’ experiences. All the best places we’ve been and experiences we’ve loved packed into a one week Tasmania itinerary. But with enough time to take it all in as you go.

Here is what to see in Tasmania in 7 days (starting in Hobart):

Day 1: Arrive Hobart; Salmanca, MONA

Total Drive Time: 90 minutes

Drive conditions: easy (city driving)

Begin your 7 day Tasmania road trip when you touch down in the vibrant city of Hobart. First things first – pick up your pre-booked your hire car 👇🏽 at Hobart Airport – there’s a road trip waiting!

Once you have your car, head into the Hobart CBD to make the most of your arrival day.

Salamanca & Battery Point

Explore vibrant old town Salamanca. Wander through boutique shops filled with cute Tasmanian crafts, meander through art galleries galore and stop in at Salamanca Fresh which stocks all manner of delicious local produce. It’s time to treat yourself! To cheeses, berries, ice-creams, chocolates – the list is long and distinguished so get some to snack on for when you hit the road on Day 2 of this epic 7 day Tasmania road trip.

Wander around Constitution Dock and grab some fish and chips at one of the many local chippies – Fish Frenzy is our fave.

Or grab a beer and tasty lunch at Manky Sally’s – cellar door for popular local brewer Moo Brew.

Meander up Kelly’s Steps through Battery Point’s narrow streets lined with historic cottages and charming cafes, soaking in the neighborhood’s old-world charm. The walk from Kelly st to Arthur Circus is pretty and captures Battery Point’s old world vibe.

MONA

Take the high speed Catamaran from Brooke St Pier to MONA for expansive views of the beautiful bays of Hobart’s stunning waterfront.

Spend a few hours awestruck at the avant-garde world of Tasmania’s renowned Museum of Old and New Art. Experience thought-provoking contemporary art installations, provocative exhibitions, and interactive art.

MONA is a level 5 wow. We’d fail to describe it even if we tried. It’s unlike any other museum we’ve been to and a must see on any Hobart itinerary.

Salamanca Market or The Farm Gate Market (Saturday & Sunday)

If you’re in Hobart on a Saturday morning, Salamanca Market is a real vibe. Framed by cobblestone streets and colonial facades with Kunanyi in the background, it’s quintessentially Tasmanian and full of local crafts people and artisans. Don’t forget to taste all of the Tasmanian whiskey and gins – there are a good handful of stalls through the market. And we can’t think of a better souvenir of your time in Tassie!

The Farm Gate Market is exactly that. Sunday mornings in the CBD you’ll find stalls and stalls of southern Tasmanian’s best farm and artisan producers – straight from local farms and kitchens. It’s not all fruit and veg either. Think delectable pastries, creamy cheeses and international cuisines – Tassie style. Well worth the visit.

Where to stay in Hobart?

Hobart is awash with accommodation options. There are some gorgeous historic hotels to choose from. Top of that list is:

• the Henry Jones Art Hotel $$$$ – unrivalled position on Constitution Dock, luxury meets reimagined heritage style
• Old Bishops Quarters $$$$ – unique accommodation, private and spacious with iconic views & a central location
• Sanctum Boutique Apartments $$$ – family stays, chesterfields and glamour with colonial style
• Hadley’s Orient Hotel $$$ – stay in an Agatha Christie novel and drink at their classy heritage bar

You’ll pay for the privilege of colonial vibes of course.

If that’s all a bit rich for your blood, we stay in private accommodation around the town. Hobart is an easy city to drive around, so staying outside of the CBD with a rental car will often be cheaper.

Expert Tips 🔐

Hobart has the most nightlife in your one week Tasmania itinerary. Head out at night and explore Hobart’s trendy eateries, bars and pubs. Here are our hottest recommendations right now:

1. Head the ‘The Still’ bar before dinner (4pm and 6pm) Monday to Friday for $12 Forty Spotted Gin martinis.
2. If you don’t drink, the Blue Oyster at Salamanca does happy hour oysters around the same time. $2 a pop!
3. For an after dinner cocktail check out Boodle Beasley or Gold Bar. An espresso martini at either of these spots wont let you down.
4. MONA is not open 7 days a week so time your visit to Hobart for when it is open (Friday to Monday). You can’t just wander in either. You must book at time slot on the MONA website to enter the museum.
5. Head up to NoHo (North Hobart) for dinner. Elizabeth St is where you’ll find some great restaurants and watering holes (bars) like Bay Wa Izakaya and Simple. For a fantastic cheap dinner, we recommend the Pho at Cyclo.

Day 2: Tasman Peninsula, Richmond

Drive time today: 2h25m

Drive conditions: easy (straight, main roads & highways)

Port Arthur Historic Site

On Day 2 you’ll head off early on a scenic drive to the Tasman Peninsula to visit the hauntingly beautiful Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage attraction.

Port Arthur is an iconic Tasmanian experience and not to be missed. It’s an immersive walk through harrowing Australian convict life. You’ll explore well-preserved ruins, guided by local staff who help bring the penitentiary history to life. Wander through historic buildings like the Commandant’s House, and learn about the harsh realities of Tasmania as a penal colony. You’ll also hear about the site’s ghostly legends, adding appropriate creepy vibes to your half-day adventure.

Grab lunch at the cafe inside or take a 7 minute drive to our favourite local cafe Port Arthur Lavender and don’t forget to order the lavender scones for afters. Check out their lavender products on the way out for a great Tasmanian gift or souvenir idea.

Tasman Island Cruise (Optional)

An optional and very cool activity on the Tasman Peninsula, a Tasman Island Cruise is a unique and unforgettable way to see the dramatic coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck. You’ll experience the majesty of towering cliffs along the Peninsula rising impressively from the sea, and the magical sea life of dolphins and seals that call these shores home.

You’ll pickup your cruise group at Tasman Island Cruises headquarters in Port Arthur. Cruises last 3 hours and start at 9:15am (all year round). For an early cruise, visit Port Arthur Historic Site in the afternoon. There’s an afternoon cruise at 1:15pm in peak tourist season (Summer).

Tasmans Arch, Devils Kitchen and Tessellated Pavement

If you’re not keen on cruising, spend the afternoon of Day 2 checking out the same epic coastline from multiple lookouts near Eaglehawk Neck.

In particular, make sure to stop and take in the breathtaking beauty of Tasmans Arch and Devils Kitchen. These are popular stops on the road from Port Arthur to Freycinet. As you stand before these majestic dolomite cliff formations, you can’t help but feel the raw power of nature, carving giant rock faces over millions of years through wind and waves crashing in off the Tasman Sea. These views are mind blowing.

After a head full of awesome dramatic sea cliffs and deep ocean chasms, it’s time to visit the intriguing Tessellated Pavement, nature’s own geometric masterpiece, nearby. Here, the rock formations look like a giant puzzle, with perfectly shaped blocks stretching out before you like a patchwork quilt. Look for the signs along the trails about the fascinating story of how this geo miracle came to be formed.

Before the day recedes into night, it’s back in the car for your short 1 hour drive to Richmond, where you’ll spend the evening.

Richmond

Arrive at your accommodation in the heritage village of Richmond, in the Coal River Valley. Richmond is one of Tasmania’s most picturesque heritage towns. It’s full of gorgeous colonial buildings dating back to the 1800s and one of Tassie’s oldest and most famous stone bridges.

These are all worth checking out, but not today.

Most things in Richmond close around 5pm, so you’ll likely leave the Richmond exploring until Day 3. Check in to your accommodation and head out for dinner.

Where to stay in Richmond?

Accommodation in Richmond is plentiful. You can even find short stay period houses and cottages, to up the heritage vibe tonight. 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. Stop and grab lunch in Port Arthur. There’s not many options for food or coffee on the Peninsula otherwise. We loved the restaurant at Port Arthur Lavender. Try the lavender scones with jam and cream because they’re yummy!
2. Have dinner at historic Prospect House just outside Richmond. You won’t regret it.
3. Dining options in Richmond after 5pm are limited. Be sure to book your dinner at Prospect House beforehand.

Day 3: Richmond & Freycinet

Drive time today: 2h10m

Drive conditions: easy (main roads and highways)

On Day 3 you are up early to explore Richmond before the drive to Freycinet.

Grab breakfast at one of the atmospheric cofes on Richmond’s main street (Bridge st) before wandering around to see the historic sites and cute boutiques of this charming heritage town.

The good news is that Richmond’s main sites are walkable and it’s a pretty town to wander around, marvelling at all the well maintained old Georgian sandstone buildings and cottages. Make sure you check out:

• Richmond Gaol
• Richmond Bridge
• Bridge Street
• Peppercorn Gallery

If you’re into Tasmania’s quirky side, Richmond has its share. A Poo Museum called Pooseum! Take the kids it’ll be a riot! 😳

Expert Tips 💡💡

1. The best cafe in Richmond is Ashmore Cafe. It’s cheerful, offers great service, and does a good coffee. We’ve only ever had delish food here.
2. If you’re shopping for an authentic Tasmanian gift while here, Richmond’s artisan boutiques are a great place to find something special.
3. Here’s more useful information about what to do in Richmond and the Coal River Valley, to help plan your day.

Freycinet National Park

After spending the morning in Richmond it’s time to go coastal. Jump in your hire car around 11 am as you’ll be heading to world-renowned Freycinet National Park and Wine Glass Bay.

After the 2 hour drive from Richmond, you’ll arrive in time for lunch and no guessing what’s on the menu here. Succulent seafood! Check out our tips for the best oysters in Freycinet down below.

After lunch it’s time to work off that chow with a walk up to the Wineglass Bay Lookout. It’s not a difficult walk and you’ll be rewarded with mesmerizing Wineglass Bay views, where pristine sands meet the sparkling blue, never-ending waters of the Tasman Sea.

I highly recommend ‘The Freycinet Paddle‘ if you’re up for a bit of adventure. You’ll kayak Wine Glass Bay, spotting marine life and watching the incredible shoreline unfold as your guide takes you through the history and stories of the local area. We went two to a kayak and here is my advice: at least one person in that paddle needs upper body strength or you might drift off to New Zealand. Also, that person should not be you….

Spend the afternoon relaxing and unwinding in the tranquility of the bay. Take a walk on the beach and explore local seaside villages. You’ll stay the night here – at Coles Bay, Freycinet or Dolphin Sands.

Where to stay

Freycinet has everything from very high end resorts (like Sapphire), to entire private rental holiday homes, to a BiG4 van park in this area. The best locations in the area are Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay, Dolphin Sands, Swansea. These spots are not cheap to stay – you’ll bay for the seaside village vibes.

Here are our four fave spots, from ‘affordable beachfront’ to ‘holy-smokes-is-that-my-wallet-on fire’:

1. Swansea Beach Chalets (2 bedroom Waterfront) – great value for the absolute beachfront sea views, simple, clean affordable family stays
2. The Hideaway Swansea $$$ – pure beachfront position, beach shack feels, views for days, incredible stone open fireplace, loads of return guests love this one
3. Saltair Freycinet $$$$ – the privacy, the beach, the views, the location… book it before someone else does
4. Waterfront $$$$$ – exactly as it says, sea views, wood fire, outdoor hot tub for two, moody interior decor, an instagram-worthy, special stay

Expert Tips 💡💡

1. Call in for a lunchtime oyster feast at the Melshell Oyster Shack because… why not! It’s Tassie! And the oysters are juice and reasonably priced for the quality.
2. For most succulent seafood dinner you’ll ever eat, head to Freycinet Marine Farm. Lobster, oysters and mussels caught super fresh and cooked to perfection. That’s enough, we’re salivating!

Day 4: Bicheno, Bay of Fires, Launceston

Drive time today: 4h10m

Drive conditions: some local roads & windy between St Helens & Launceston,

Day 4 is a big day of driving but the coastal and rural scenery you’ll take in makes it totally worth it.

Bicheno

The first stop on your Day 4 road trip is the coastal village of Bicheno, just 40 minutes north of Freycinet. Zip into Bicheno Coffee Van for a strong shot of coffee and friendly service. While you drink it, check out the famous Bicheno blowhole. Then it’s time to blow your way out of town and on to the Bay of Fires…

Bay of Fires

Binalong Bay in the Bay of Fires is a place of epic beach scenes you won’t easily forget. Jump out of the car and head down to Binalong Bay beach for that super special azure water and powder-white sand hit.

Drive further along the bay towards Swimcart Beach and you’ll find more deserted, white insta-worthy beaches framed by stunning orange rocks just like this one 👇🏽👇🏽.

Remember to take some happy snaps as this Bay of Fires moment will be one that lives on rent free in your head long after your 7 day Tasmania road trip is over. We promise.

Launceston

From Binalong Bay, you’ll road trip though some charming Tasmanian countryside and temperate forests all the way to Launceston.

Check out our Hot Tips for where to stop along the way. 👇🏽

If you have time today, head to Cataract Gorge, which weirdly is located right next to Launceston’s CBD. Head across the Cataract River on the chair lift for a scenic view up the gorge.

Where to stay in Launceston

Launnie as the locals call it has some top tier boutique or budget accommodation in the CBD with parking and in a spot on location. These are our recommendations to hit all these goals and have a rip snorting stay in Launceston:

• The Green Room $$ – retro glam interior is super fun, quirky and carefully curated, excellent CBD location and unbeatable price for the quality of stay, we love it all
• Alices Cottages $$$ – 7 charming historic cottages beautifully restored, think clawfoot bath tubs, old timber floors, wood fires, colonial vibes. The Scottish Cottage is our fave.
• The Old Federal Coffee Palace $$$ – retro industrial chic apartment, spacious and super central perfect for a family stay
• Henry’s on Balfour $$$$$ – posh, lush, grand, exceptionally styled and central, Henry’s on Balfour all the adjectives and if aesthetic matter this is THE place for you

Expert Tips 🔐

1. Grab lunch and a local craft ale at the Pub in the Paddock (about an hour inland from the Bay of Fires) for an authentic rural Tassie experience. Don’t forget to say hello to Priscilla the resident pig! You can even buy her a beer.
2. After lunch, polish off a locally made ice cream at the nearby Pyengana Dairy before hitting the road towards Derby and Scottsdale.
3. Swing in to Tasmania’s home of mountain biking, Derby and grab some fresh made hot donuts from Derby Pitstop.
4. While in Launceston you must drop in to Bread & Butter in the CBD for coffee and their delectable Walnut Croissant. To die for!
5. Dinner at Black Cow Bistro in Launceston’s CBD will blow you away. Bookings essential.

Day 5: Cradle Mountain Majesty

Drive time today: 3 hours

Driving conditions: winding, narrow roads, challenging in windy weather & in winter under ice & snow (check weather forecast)

On Day 5 you’ll make an early start from Launceston on a 2.5 hour road trip to see one of Tasmania’s top ranked tourist attractions – Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

Cradle Mountain is Tassie’s most photographed attraction and deservedly so. Get ready to be make some core lifetime memories!

First, you’ll take the Launceston to Cradle Mountain drive. A beautiful journey itself, this road trip takes you right through the heart of Tasmania’s North West, winding past rolling green hills and paddocks of dairy cows and docile sheep until you come to Sheffield.

Sheffield

The vibrant town of Sheffield, known as the “Town of Murals” features a charming main street adorned with colourful and captivating outdoor art, showcasing local stories. Take a few minutes to grab a coffee, stroll the main shopping area and appreciate how picturesque this town that sits in the shadows of awe-inspiring Mount Roland really is.

Sheffield is a great spot to grab some lunch or a takeaway as the options at Cradle Mountain are limited and more expensive. Pop in to one of the 4 cafes along the main street. Our favourites are Epicurean and Paper & Cup.

Cradle Mountain / Lake St Clair National Park

As you wind you way from Sheffield up to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, you’ll get a glimpse of the stunning landscapes of this world heritage area. This is where the super windy, narrow roads begin so drive with care.

Rugged mountains, button grass, moorlands, alpine forests, waterfalls and tarns greet you inside this iconic park. You’ll immediately be struck by the imposing presence of Cradle Mountain itself, surrounded by walking trails to guide you through wild Tasmanian landscapes and natural beauty you won’t forget.

Head out on the the many trails for a few hours to catch a glimpse of Cradle Mountains unique wombats, echidnas, and pademelons. Stop in and meet the Tasmanian Devils in the Devils@Cradle sanctuary.

Check out the best trails at Cradle Mt in our Hot Tips section below 👇🏽.

Stay the night in Cradle Country.

Where to stay at Cradle Mountain

If accommodation up at Cradle Mountain is too expensive for you, stay with us instead!

We host a cute & popular little tiny house accommodation near Cradle Mountain.

We’re 30 minutes from Cradle Mountain, in Wilmot, also known as Tasmania’s ‘Valley of Views’. It’s the closest town to Cradle Mountain and an excellent spot to base yourself while conquering the mountain. We do have a 2 night minimum stay, which extends your itinerary to 7 nights. But there’s plenty to do in Tasmania’s North West to fill an extra day!

Otherwise, check out our favourite Cradle Mountain cabins, luxury stays and accommodation at Cradle Mountain village.

Expert Tips 💡💡

1. We’re at Cradle Mountain all the time and there’s barely a trail we haven’t tread. But there’s a lot of walks for you to choose from. So check out our article on the best Cradle mountain walks to make the most of your Cradle Mountain day trip. And take the pressure off trying to pick a trail when you get up there!
2. Take all weather gear for Cradle Mountain. It really can change in minutes from blazing hot sun to freezing cold rain. Here’s more info to help prepare for your Cradle Mountain trip, including a practical list of what to take and wear to Cradle Mountain.

Day 6: Road trip to Hobart

Drive time today: 4h30m

Drive conditions: mixed, some windy rural roads alongside highway driving

Bid farewell to Cradle Country for an early start to Day 6 of your one week Tasmania itinerary – you’re about to traverse the picturesque Tasmanian countryside once again on a full day’s road trip back to Hobart.

And to make the most of every moment on the island, here’s three epic things to see and do along the way.

Van Diemens Land Creamery

Just off the Bass Highway south of Elizabeth Town, stop in at Van Diemens Land Creamery. With all of these happy cows around, you can’t miss the sensational flavours of Tasmanian best ice cream. Here are the best truly Tassie flavours you simply can’t leave without tasting:

1. Caramelized Fig and Pear
2. Lavender and Chocolate
3. Whiskey
4. Pepperberry and Leatherwood.

And that’s just the first of the fun stops in store for you on your journey south today…

About 20 minutes further down the Bass Highway you’ll take the off ramp towards Deloraine and head west for the next stop at Mole Creek…

Mole Creek Caves

It’s time for some spelunking!

Explore the underground wonders of the ancient limestone formations of Mole Creek Caves, and get amongst the impressive stalactites and stalagmites on an hour long tour of the cave system. All tours of the caves here – King Solomon Caves, Mole Creek Caves and Marakoopa Cave – are guided and must be booked beforehand. Tickets do sell out so best book early.

Whether you’re spelunking underground or enjoying the natural beauty above, Mole Creek is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Deloraine

Deloraine is a pretty town on the way back to the Bass Highway and where you’ll stop for lunch today. There’s a good choice of pubs or cafes along the main street for lunch. Check out our favourites in our Expert Tips section 👇🏽

You could also call into the Woolies here for a takeaway budget lunch option.

As you drive out of Deloraine, check out the lovely Meander River lined with willows that runs past the bottom of town.

Oatlands

Oatlands is our hottest day trip destination from Hobart in 2024.

An hour before you reach Hobart, Oatlands is a charming town steeped in colonial history and intrigue. Here, you’ll stroll through historic streets lined with well-preserved Georgian buildings, including Australia’s largest collection of sandstone cottages.

Be sure to check out the Military Precinct, Courthouse and Gaol where many a convict was hanged for their crimes.

There’s a brand new whiskey distillery opened up at Oatland’s major tourist attraction, the Old Mill. Both the Mill and Callington Mill Distillery are well worth the visit for their historic significance (and a dram or two of the single malt whiskey)…

Return to Hobart as the sun sets, to explore more the bars, restaurants and nightlife of Tassie thriving capital.

Expert Tips 🔐

1. We’re regulars for lunch at local cafes Dixie Blue or Mumma Buzz in Deloraine. In Mole Creek, Cafe Amanita is where we stop for lunch.
2. Stop in at Melita Honey on the way to Mole Creek Caves for a mouth watering honey ice-cream fix. If you’re after a take away – the leatherwood honey is our favourite.
3. If you love craft beer, stop in at Little Green Men Brewing or the Bush Inn Brewhouse (Deloraine) for a cold ale or a tasting paddle. They both do lunch and dinner too.
4. Here’s some more info about things to do and see in Oatlands.

Day 7: Kunanyi views & departure from Hobart

Depending on your departing flight, day 7 entails a quick trip up to the top of Kunanyi to take in the 360 degree views of Hobart, southern Tasmania and surrounding coves, islands and sea.

Factor in about 2 hours for your visit. 35 minutes up the mountain & 35 minutes back down. Plus some time exploring the peak and taking in all of the views.

With hearts full of memories and souls enriched by adventure, you’ll head off to Hobart Airport where this incredible 7 day Tasmania itinerary from Hobart ends.

What next?

If you’re planning a Tasmania self drive holiday, here’s everything you need to know about bringing your car to Tasmania is cheaper than flying and renting a vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions