Tasmania might look small on the map, but it packs an extraordinary amount into one island - wild coastlines, ancient rainforest, world-class food and wine, and wildlife you simply won't see anywhere else on Earth. The good news for international visitors? You can experience the very best of it in five days, using Hobart as your base, without ever needing to hire a car or drive on the left.
Here's our recommended itinerary, built around the day tours our guests love most.
Day 1: Arrive and Explore Hobart
Ease into island life with a day in Australia's second-oldest city. Wander the sandstone warehouses of Salamanca Place (if you arrive on a Saturday, the famous Salamanca Market is unmissable), explore the historic Battery Point neighbourhood, and head up kunanyi / Mount Wellington for sweeping views over the harbour - the summit sits at over 1,200 metres and is often dusted with snow, even in summer.
If you have energy left, catch the ferry to MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art. It's provocative, strange and brilliant, and the riverside ferry trip is an experience in itself.
Day 2: Bruny Island
A short drive and ferry crossing south of Hobart, Bruny Island is two islands joined by a narrow strip of sand called The Neck - climb the boardwalk for one of Tasmania's most photographed views. Bruny is famous for two things: food and wildlife. Expect freshly shucked oysters, artisan cheese, berry farms and local honey, plus the chance to spot the island's rare white wallabies.
This is consistently one of our most popular day tours, and for good reason - it condenses everything people love about Tasmania into a single day.
Day 3: Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula
History runs deep on the Tasman Peninsula. The Port Arthur Historic Site is one of the best-preserved convict settlements in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site - allow several hours to explore the grounds, ruins and harbour. On the way, the peninsula's dramatic coastline delivers some of the tallest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere, along with natural formations like the Tessellated Pavement, Tasman Arch and the Devil's Kitchen.
Day 4: Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park
The east coast's crown jewel. Freycinet National Park is home to Wineglass Bay, regularly named among the world's most beautiful beaches. The walk up to the Wineglass Bay lookout takes around 45 minutes and rewards you with that perfect curve of white sand and turquoise water. Along the drive, you'll pass through seaside towns, oyster farms and the pink granite peaks of the Hazards.
Day 5: Mt Field National Park and Tasmanian Wildlife
Finish your trip with rainforest and wildlife. Mt Field is one of Tasmania's oldest national parks, where an easy walk through towering swamp gums - some of the tallest flowering trees on the planet - leads to the three-tiered Russell Falls. Pair it with a visit to a wildlife sanctuary to meet Tasmanian devils, wombats, echidnas and kangaroos up close before you fly out.
Why Do This Itinerary as Guided Tours?
- No driving on unfamiliar rural roads - wildlife is active at dawn and dusk, and distances are deceptive.
- Local guides who know the stories, shortcuts and best photo stops.
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Hobart, so you only unpack once.
- Entry fees, ferry crossings and national park passes handled for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a car to follow this itinerary?
No. Every destination on this itinerary is covered by a day tour departing from Hobart, with hotel pick-up included.
What's the best time of year to visit Tasmania?
Tasmania is a year-round destination. Summer (December to February) offers long days and warm weather; winter brings snow-capped peaks, aurora viewing and fewer crowds.
Is five days enough for Tasmania?
Five days based in Hobart is enough to see the southern highlights. If you have longer, consider adding Cradle Mountain or the west coast.
Ready to start planning? Browse our full range of day tours from Hobart, or get in touch and we'll help you build the perfect five days.
