Things to do in Hobart

Fishermen's cottages and mansions of merchants and master mariners line the narrow streets of Battery Point. You can spend a whole day admiring the architectural styles in the area. Take a camera or recharge your phone because you won't be able to resist taking snapshots of the beautiful gardens, flowers, lemon trees, and olive trees you spot along the way. It's magical.

Drive up Mt Wellington to experience a spectacular view of Hobart and the River Derwent. There's a wild, exhilarating atmosphere on the mountain with strong, icy winds. Depending on the time of year and the weather, the pinnacle may even treat you to a light snowfall. Don't forget your jacket!

In Taroona, a 20-minute drive from Hobart, you'll find Shot Tower, one of Tasmania's top visitor attractions. The circular sandstone turret, once built to turn arsenic, hot lead and antimony into ammunition, is a must-see as it's the world's last tower of its type. Climb the wooden steps to see the incredible view from the top of the tower.

Gain a captivating insight into Hobart's history by visiting the city's former gaol, The Tench. It originally covered about 1ha with 50,000 convicts housed at the complex during its time as a convict penitentiary. Tours are available at The Tench, with many chilling stories of its past entrenched in its walls.

The towering, sandstone warehouses of Salamanca Place form a centre point and meeting place for the creative arts community in Hobart. Alleyways full of hidden treasures are sprawled among the fascinating buildings. The Australian colonial architecture is the perfect setting for the array of artworks, shops, cafes, and bars. This area also makes for a beautiful spot to stroll along at night with trees lit up, live music playing, and restaurants bustling.

Catch a ferry from Hobart's waterfront up the River Derwent. In 30 minutes, you'll arrive on the steps of MONA, Australia's largest privately owned museum. The space houses more than 2,000 artworks, all from owner David Walsh's collection, including ethnographic pieces and artefacts from ancient times. The collection is renowned for being thought-provoking and controversial with exhibits that are strange, confronting, and immersive. If you need to take a break, visit the museum's restaurant, cafe and bar for fine food, wine, and views of the river and surrounding scenery.

While you're in Hobart, set aside time to visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG). A combination of museum, art gallery and herbarium, TMAG houses exhibits that represent Tasmania's rich history and biodiversity. Permanent highlights include the 10,000-item photographic collection and the selection of decorative artworks from the state's colonial era.

Once Hobart's first public library, the Carnegie Building (down by the waterfront) now houses the Maritime Museum of Tasmania's comprehensive collection of paintings, artefacts, and model ships. This is a great place to explore if you're interested in Hobart's history, with Tasmania's maritime heritage central to the development of industries in the community.

Small galleries contribute to Hobart's thriving culture in a big way as they provide recognition of local artists' work. Support contemporary Tasmanian and Australian artists by paying a visit to Colville Gallery or Despard Gallery on Hobart's esplanade (Battery Point). The warmth and styles of the galleries create the perfect atmosphere for the ever-changing and exceptional work on display.