5 day self drive tour tasmania

A 5 Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary (For Outdoor Enthusiasts)

Located off the mainland of Australia to the south of Victoria is the fascinating island state of Tasmania . Tassie is famed for the cleanest air in the world, exclusive native wildlife and over 40% of land protected as national parks or reserves. And that’s to name just a few things!

A road trip is undoubtedly the best way to see Tasmania, and a 5 day Tasmania road trip is the perfect way to get an introduction into the different elements of this incredible state.

Surprisingly, Tasmania is often overlooked by people when planning a holiday Down Under. But for nature lovers, Tassie may well be the best place in Australia for a road trip  whether that’s in a car with overnight stops or a campervan.

Whether you’re after cities filled with delicious eateries and world class art, or would rather hike incredible mountains in the wilderness or relax on the best-looking beaches in Australia, Tasmania truly has something for everyone. 

This 5 day road trip itinerary for outdoor enthusiasts will take you on a small lap around central and eastern Tasmania, with a particular focus on the state’s natural wonders.

But before you head off, just make sure you read these 8 things to know before you go to help prepare you for your trip!

How to get to Tasmania:

To do a road trip in Tasmania, you have two options to access the state from mainland Australia:

1. Fly and hire a car

Flights from Melbourne to Hobart can often be found for as little as $50 per person for a return with Jetstar. The flight time is only about 1 hour and 15 minutes so it’s a great option to make the most of your short visit. Most major airports in Australia also fly to Tasmania. Compare flight prices on SkyScanner  for the cheapest rates.

Once you arrive, you can easily hire a car from the airport to do your road trip. Renting a car to travel around the state is common, so there are many car hire companies with competitive rates to choose from. Compare car rentals here .

2. Bring you Vehicle on the Spirit of Tasmania Ferry

The Spirit of Tasmania is either a day or overnight ferry from Port Melbourne to Devonport, taking just over 8 hours. If you only have 5 full days to do a road trip, I would recommend taking the overnight ferry the night before.

Be warned that the ferry is a painfully slow and often expensive journey though. You have to pay for a bed or private cabin as well as your ticket (unless you’re happy with a semi-reclined chair for free).

Every time I have looked at tickets they’ve been $500-$1,000AUD return for one person to take my small Econovan camper – and that’s with the free chair option.

Though the benefit of the ferry to Tasmania is that you have your own vehicle with you so do not have the expense and inconvenience of hiring one. If you have a campervan, it may be worthwhile paying for the ferry in order to save money on accommodation.

Either way, it’s best to do some research and some quick maths to work out ultimately which option is cheapest and most convenient for you.

How to spend a 5 day Tasmania road trip:

5 days is probably the bare minimum amount of time you’ll need to get a good insight into Tasmania. Having travelled there a few times alone and also staying with my partner’s family who lived there, here is my suggested 5 day itinerary for my favourite Australian state.

Day 1: Hobart to Mount Field National Park

Start off your 5 day Tassie road trip adventure with a touch of culture in the capital, Hobart. The lively harbour city brims with character from its beautiful heritage architecture and a thriving art and culture scene.

Hobart has some exciting things to offer visitors such as the thought-provoking MONA art museum. Accessed by a quirky ferry, this millionaires playground has some of the most outrageous and interesting art I’ve ever seen, sure to shock and intrigue you! 

If the museum doesn’t sound like your thing and you want to hit the outdoors right away, then instead drive up Mount Wellington to see stunning views across the whole city. 

There’s also Hobart’s famous Saturday markets such as Salamanca. Spend the morning browsing and getting your hands on some locally produced goods.

When you’re ready, head west to the first destination, Mount Field National Park!

The drive to Mount Field is just over 1 hour, where you can find all sorts of hikes and waterfalls, along with campgrounds to stay the night if you have a van or tent.

This National Park is the first of many to be seen over the course of the next few days, so I recommended purchasing a park pass here to gain access to all the National parks in Tasmania. This is something you’ll need to keep visible in the front of your car, and you’ll be set for the rest of the trip!

Spend the afternoon walking the 6km Three Falls Circuit to see some stunning waterfalls. It will take about 2-3 hours to complete. Keep an eye out for Swamp Gums, the world’s tallest flowering plant – just one of the many cool flora and fauna in Tassie! 

After the walk, continue driving and stay somewhere enroute to Cradle Mountain such as Mole Creek where I found a lovely B&B.

Where to stay – Mole Creek

This is an adorable heritage stone cabin with modern interior. Located on a secluded private working farm surrounded by manicured gardens and rolling hills, this accommodation is ideal for a couple.  View property

Day 2: Cradle Mountain to Launceston

One of the most popular ‘must-see’ destinations in Tasmania is the iconic Cradle Mountain, and for a good reason. Cradle Mountain is what sets Tasmania apart from the rest of Australia. 

Jagged prehistoric-like peaks protrude from ancient rainforest which reflect dramatically in the midnight blue of Dove Lake. It is clear why this area of outstanding natural beauty is the most popular outdoor attraction in Tasmania.

Depending on where you stayed the previous night, you should be about a 1-2 hours drive from Cradle Mountain. Plan to arrive here in the early morning. It can get quite busy with mini buses of tourists, so the earlier the better.

There are a variety of walks to choose from, but the Dove Lake Circuit is one of the most popular as it is the easiest. This is a 6km looped walk at the base of Cradle Mountain offering spectacular views, and should take about 2-3 hours to complete. 

Alternatively, if you’re up for getting the heart racing a little more, you can head up to the right of the lake to Marion’s Lookout. This walk offers probably one of the best views of Cradle Mountain and the lake. This short but steep out-and-back 3km walk will take roughly 2 hours to complete.

After spending the morning in the Lake St Clair National Park, it’s time to hit the road and head to Launceston, the second biggest city in Tasmania. 

Charming Launceston lies in the heart of a wine growing region and is surrounded by rows of vines and lavender fields. 

The drive here from Cradle Mountain is around 2.5 hours, and will be the next stop for the night.

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One of the highlights of Launceston is the Cataract Gorge, home to the longest single span chairlift in the world! It’s hard to believe the gorge is just 2 minutes from the centre of the city considering the abundant wildlife (such as the famous peacocks!).

If you want to splash out somewhere nice for dinner in Launceston, I would highly recommend a visit to the waterfront fine dining restaurant of Stillwater with its menu embodying the best of fresh Tasmanian produce.

Where to stay – Launceston 

You won’t struggle to find great options in Launnie. For one of the top rated hotels in the city, try Peppers Silo . For a reasonably priced modern hotel, try The Cornwall . If you’re on a budget, I’ve also stayed at  Art Hostel and had a great time (and surprisingly a good sleep!).

Day 3: Launceston to Bay of Fires

This is the day where things start to change, where the winding roads through the hills aren’t so windy anymore and the mountainous views turn to stunning sandy beaches. 

Start off the morning grabbing a coffee and breakfast from one of Launceston’s quaint cafes before making your way to today’s destination, which will be the Bay of Fires. 

The drive from Launceston to the Bay of Fires is about 2.5 hours long, but there’s some great places worth stopping along the way! 

The first stop is Bridestowe Lavender Estate, the world’s largest privately owned lavender farm. The farm only blooms in summertime, but it’s still a nice place to visit year round. There’s a gift shop and cafe full of all things lavender, along with a distillery onsite. Whether the fields are awash in purple or not, it’s still an iconic spot to visit on your Tasmanian road trip.

The next stop after the lavender is Little Blue Lake near South Mount Cameron. This is only a quick stop, as there’s not much to see other than the crazy milk-turquoise color of this old mining hole.

From here there’s only 1 hour of driving to reach the Bay of Fires.

The Bay of Fires is a stretch of incredibly white sandy beaches accompanied by a clear blue ocean. The rocks here are covered in orange lichen. People often think this is how the Bay of Fires got its name. In fact, it was because the bay glowed orange from all the fires lit by the First Nations People when the colonists sailed past on ships.

On this 5 day Tasmania road trip there’s only enough time to get a quick taste of everything, and the absolute best time to take in the beauty of these beaches is at sunrise and sunset.

I highly recommend camping for the night at the Bay of Fires if you can, however there are plenty of accommodations nearby in Bicheno as well. 

Where to stay – Bicheno or Bay of Fires

There are plenty of stunning beaches to choose from when camping at the Bay of Fires , and they’re all completely free! Make sure to get there early enough to claim a spot. They have traditional drop toilets and often fire pits.

If camping isn’t for you and you would prefer a little more comfort then check out the reasonably priced Beachfront Bicheno with a private patio to enjoy seafront or pool views. 

Day 4: Bay of Fires/Bicheno to Freycinet

Perhaps after an inspiring sunrise on the beach to start the day, it’s time to drive down to the famous Freycinet National Park. This will be the 3rd (and final) national park visited on your 5 day Tasmania road trip!

Freycinet is another iconic destination in Tasmania, where many people go to see the stunning birds eye views from Wineglass Bay Lookout. This walk is 3km and takes around 1.5 hours.

If you love a good beach, make sure you continue to head down to Hazards Beach to make the walk a bit longer to experience its dusty white squeaky sand, clear water and gorgeous little sheltered lagoons.

Before you leave make sure you head to Freycinet Marine Farm for some of the best oysters in the world! Tasmania is known for its seafood, and these fresh local oysters just around the corner will not disappoint. However keep in mind the oyster farm does close at 5pm, so make sure to get there in time! 

The next stop on the 5 day Tasmania road trip will be heading south, so anywhere along the coast this way will be a convenient place to stay. I recommend looking at the town of Swansea.

Where to stay – Swansea

This motel was a good budget friendly accommodation right on the water. Perfect for a short, comfortable stay with a great sunset (or sunrise) admired from the balcony.   View property

Day 5: Maria Island to Hobart

At this point I am sure it will feel like the days have gone by all too fast. It is the last full day of the road trip and also time to explore one of Tasmania’s islands! 

The destination for the day is Maria Island, which can be accessed by booking a ferry from Triabunna. Triabunna is about a 1.5 hours drive from Freycinet, and about 40 minutes drive from Swansea.

Before heading to the ferry, stop at Kate’s Berry Farm for some of the most delicious jams in all Australia! There are several to taste and try, as well as a full cafe menu to sit down and have a nice brekky. The farm is in a beautiful location and will be the perfect way to start today’s adventures just right.

The ferry to Maria Island takes about 45 minutes. When you arrive you’ll find yourself in one of the more remote, untouched parts of this state. With no cars, shops (or in fact predators), it’s a true wildlife haven. So much so, it’s often referred to as Tasmania’s Noah’s Ark! 

That being said, Maria island is one of the best places to observe wombats, kangaroos, wallabies and the Tasmanian Devil. When it comes to birdlife there are over 150 species here alone!

The most enjoyable way to explore the rural island is by renting or bringing your own bike.

After your active day of sightseeing around Maria Island, it’s just over an hour drive from Triabunna to Hobart, bringing everything full circle to end your trip! 

Where to stay – Hobart

It’s your last night of your road trip, so why not make the most of it and splash out for Islington Hotel . If funds are a bit low, stay in a beautifully renovated 19th Century mansion at Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse .

This 5 day Tasmania road trip is designed for those who want to make the most of their time in this beautiful Australian state. It is packed with all the highlights, from incredible views and delicious foods, to beautiful nature walks. 

Tasmania’s truly unlike any other state in Australia. It’s beauty will leave you in absolute awe, feeling relaxed and recharged, and inspired for an even longer road trip next time!

Heading to Australia soon? Don’t forget these essentials!

Flights : compare and search using Skyscanner

Accommodation : hotels to hostels, glamping to apartments I always use Booking.com

Tours: to search and compare the best group tours and activities worldwide (with up to 20% off), use Viator

Visa : don’t forget to  check the entry requirements for Australia on the government website for the passport you are travelling with

Inspiration : Lonely Planet’s guide to Australia or for your next trip, how about Lonely Planet’s Guide to the World ?

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14 thoughts on “A 5 Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary (For Outdoor Enthusiasts)”

What an incredible road trip! Mountains, waterfalls, beaches…it’s got a bit of everything! It definitely sounds like my kind of trip! Thanks for the awesome guide!

It sure does! And not forgetting wineries, lavender fields, forests and more haha! Thanks for your comment!

Tasmania has just about everything. It’s been on my bucket list for ages and I can’t wait until this part of the world opens up for tourism. I’ll definitely come back to your guide before my visit 🙂

Yay thanks Kitti! I am so excited for you and I hope you don’t have to wait for too much longer!

This looks like a fantastic area to go on a road trip! I love the different landscapes that you come across – thanks for the helpful tips!

It really is! There’s so much variety, it is not boring at all!

When we planned our long trip to Australia for 2020, we did not even have Tasmania on our plans. When we finally get to re-book this trip, I can see we may need to carve out time for a road trip in Tasmania and to see the great National Parks there. Starting with a view of the stunning Mount Field waterfalls would certainly spur the excitment. We would love the drive thru winding roads but would not want to miss the sandy beaches. Sure hope we get this back on the planning board soon.

I’d absolutely recommend to! And for as long as you can manage too. It’s my favourite places in Australia and does not disappoint on a road trip if you love nature and the outdoors!

What an amazing itinerary. You had me sold with the first picture, and it got better with all the mountain views, waterfall etc… I’m not familiar with Tasmania, so it was great discovering the island with you. Thanks for sharing.

I know – it’s one of those places where you just cant believe the scenery is real! That’s why a road trip is just so special 🙂

I have been wanting to visit Tasmania for quite some time but wasn’t sure where to go and what to see. Your itinerary makes it easy. The map makes the route very clear.

Thanks Rhonda! Spend as much time in Tassie as you can. It’s amazing!

I can’t believe so much of Tasmania is National Parks and reserves, that’s amazing! Those outdoor views are just stunning, what a great place to spend a few day, a road trip seems like a great way to see a lot more of it, although I prefer your idea of flying and renting a car rather than taking the expensive ferry. Maria Island is one place I’d love to go – to have the chance to see that much unique wildlife would be incredible

I know! If only more places were like Tasmania in terms of their conservation efforts. You really notice the positive effects such as the clean air and abundant flora and fauna! It’s such a magical place. I’m still keeping and eye out for cheap ferry tickets though to bring my van over next time.. surely one day!!

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Self-Drive Tasmania: The Best Trip Planner for an Ultimate Road Trip

• Updated on: November 29, 2023

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Table of Contents

Imagine this: I’m spending over a month in the rugged wilderness of Tasmania, an Australian island that’s a world unto itself. This place, one of the last accessible frontiers of raw, untouched nature, is a magnet for anyone with a thirst for adventure. The journey itself is captivating – empty roads meander through an ever-changing canvas of landscapes, making every mile an unfolding story.

In my trusty camper van, which quickly becomes more than just a vehicle but a mobile home, I dive deep into the heart of Tasmania. This extended stay isn’t just a visit; it’s a full immersion into the island’s soul. Every day is a new chapter, each destination a fresh revelation.

Given the luxury of time that many might not have, it didn’t feel right to just churn out a standard X-day Tasmania road trip itinerary. How could I distill this rich, sprawling experience into just a handful of days? Instead, I’ve put together a Tasmania trip planner, a guide born from my extensive explorations. This isn’t about prescribing a route; it’s about offering you the tools to weave your own Tasmanian tapestry, to build a journey that echoes your personal rhythm and style. So, get ready to chart your own course through Tasmania’s wild beauty!

How to get to Tasmania

As Tasmania is an island, which is not connected to the mainland by any tunnels or bridges, the only way to get there is by boat or by plane. If you want to bring your own car, you can take the ferry, the Spirit of Tasmania . They provide a regular daily service between Melbourne and Devonport.

If you prefer to fly , you can take a flight from Sydney, Melbourne, Launceston, or Hobart. Launceston is a city in the North of Tasmania. Hobart is the capital city of Tasmania, situated in the South.

Don’t miss: Our Complete Tasmania Travel Guide

Best time to visit Tasmania

Tasmania can best be visited between December and February. The temperatures are best during this time of the year. Nature is stunning and there are plenty of  activities  that can be done. But always be prepared for a cool day and cold nights.

Car rental Tasmania

If you choose to fly to Tasmania, you can rent a car at both the airports in Hobart and Launceston. This is the easiest way to go, as there is barely any public transport in Tasmania, not even an option to bring you into town from the airport.

As the roads are pretty solid in Tasmania, you should be very fine with renting a 2WD car. This can either be a small car, a station wagon, a Camper Van or an RV.

Camping is very common in Tasmania and you will find a lot of free camps and campsites all around. But if camping is not your thing, don’t be afraid, as there are also many opportunities when it comes to B&B’s, hotels, and hostels!

Self-Driving Tasmania

In Tasmania, you drive on the left side of the road, just like in the rest of Australia. This also means that you have to stay on the left unless you are passing.

Always be aware of wildlife. They can cross the road literally any moment of the day. We had to stop a couple of times to let some wildlife cross the road, like an echidna, several wallabies, a goanna, and even a Tasmanian Devil!

If you didn’t see them in time and you hit an animal, always make sure to stop. See if the animal can be rescued or if it had any babies with it that need to be taken care of. Call the Wildlife Rescue at 1300 094 737 to report an animal that needs help.

Always wear your seatbelt and use hands-free devices. Stick to the speed limits, which is 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h in rural areas, and 110 km/h on the highway. Please be aware that gas stations might be further away from each other than you expect, so don’t forget to fuel up on time!

If you don’t like to travel around Tasmania by yourself, check out this amazing 6 day tour.

Know before you go

There are a couple of things you need to know before you start your road trip around Tasmania.

Tasmania National Park Pass

A National Park Pass is a pass that gives you permission to enter a national park in Tasmania. You can either purchase a single-entry ticket, that gives you access for 24 hours, or you can purchase a holiday pass, that is valid for all the national parks in Tasmania for 8 weeks.

It might save you a lot of money on your Tasmanian road trip to purchase the holiday pass, even when you don’t spend the full 8 weeks in Tasmania. Below are the costs for the different national park passes:

• Single entry (24 hours): AU$22, which is valid for 1 vehicle and up to 8 persons
• Holiday pass (8 weeks): AU$56, which is valid for 1 vehicle and up to 8 persons

If you are planning on going to more than 2 national parks, it is more affordable to purchase the holiday pass.

Tip: You can purchase your national park pass at the entrance of any national park, any visitor center or at the Spirit of Tasmania I & II if you arrive by ferry.

Southern Lights

You might not expect it, but in Tasmania, it is possible to see the Southern Lights! This is also called the Aurora Australis. It is the same natural phenomenon as the Northern Lights, but then in the Southern Hemisphere.

Actually, Tasmania is one of the best places in the world to see these incredible light shows. So, if you travel around, don’t forget to check the aurora forecast and set an alarm clock if the chances are high!

You can see the Southern Lights pretty much everywhere in Tasmania. Just make sure your view to the South isn’t blocked by large mountains or trees. It also helps a lot when you are away from the city so that you don’t have light pollution.

Tip : Join the Facebook group Aurora Australis Tasmania to get to know if and where there is a chance to capture the Southern Lights.

Bioluminescence

Another phenomenon to be seen in Tasmania is the bioluminescence, also called sea sparkle. When it gets dark the water lightens up in a bright blue color. The glow is caused by specific algae or plant plankton, flashing when they are disturbed by waves or currents.

This sea sparkle is especially known to be seen around Hobart. So, if you are around, check out if there is a chance to see it!

TIP : Become a member of the Facebook group bioluminescence Tasmania to get to know if and where there is a chance to see this blue fluorescence.

Self-Drive Tasmania Road Trip Planner

That was some basic information about Tasmania. You know where to rent a car and what you always have to look out for. So, now it’s time to finally dive into the beautiful sights, amazing things to do, and incredible National Parks to explore in Tasmania!

I start this road trip around Tasmania in Hobart, but you can literally start anywhere. If you fly to Launceston, scroll down to that point and start planning your Tasmania itinerary from there. Same story if you arrive by ferry in Devonport!

Interactive map of Tasmania

Below you’ll find an interactive map of Tasmania, where you can see all the stops, places of interest, things to do and places to sleep which I discuss in this post. Simply click on the map to integrate it into your Google Maps and navigate to the next stop on your route!

Hobart is the capital city of Tasmania, but when you have been to Melbourne or Sydney, you will be amazed by the small size. It really is a cute and compact town where you are able to find anything you need. You can see it all in a day, but you can easily spend here 3 days as well.

Driving isn’t the most comfortable in the city center, as there are a lot of really small and narrow roads. Do you have a Camper Van? Don’t even bother trying to park in the city! Park just outside the center and walk in 10-15 minutes into town.

Tours we recommend:

Mount wellington.

Mount Wellington is one of the iconic sights in Hobart. You can drive all the way to the top of the mountain via a winding steep road. It is worth all your time and effort, as the views on a clear day are incredible! Especially during sunrise or sunset.

Once at the top, you can walk onto a viewing platform to have a view over the city and the ocean. There is also an inside viewing platform if you feel cold. Don’t forget, you can climb up a mountain and the temperature can easily be a couple of degrees colder than in the city! When we visited Mount Welling the temperature change was 12 degrees!

Also, don’t forget about the wind. Without any shelter, you will be fully exposed to it. Bring a windproof jacket, gloves, and a hat if you want to prepare yourself!

Salamanca Market

The Salamanca Market is a street market, held every Saturday from 8.30 am until 3.00 pm at Salamanca place. This is in the middle of the city center of Hobart. It is a very vibrant market with lots of handicrafts, arts, jewelry, organic produce, and delicious local foods and breweries.

With over 300 stands, you can easily spend there the whole morning. Wander around, take in the relaxed vibes and search for a beautiful souvenir.

MONA – the Museum of Old and New Art

This Museum of Old and New Art is a must-visit when in Hobart. You can get here by car or by ferry. It is a very interactive art museum, where old and modern art is combined.

So, what can you expect to see here? Although it is a very modern and interactive museum, there is also art hanging on the walls. But instead of figuring out what it is all about, you get a device where you can listen to the founder of the museum and sometimes the artist himself. They explain the story behind the art, which makes it way easier to understand.

There is also a lot of interactive art, where you can actually participate in to let it work. For example the pulse bulb, that shows your pulse when you hold on to a metal bar. And there is also a device that lets the wind do the work. Yes, you do understand it right, the wind makes the art here!

You can easily spend half a day at MONA. And if the weather is good you can enjoy lunch or a drink in the garden of the restaurant and watch the boats come by over the river.

Rektango Live Music

Every Friday night from 6.00 pm to 7.30 pm there is a free live music event at Salamanca place. Right behind the Peacock theater people gather to enjoy the music with some drinks.

So, if you are around on a Friday night, definitely go here to get a real local Tasmanian experience!

Places to stay in Hobart

There are several backpacker hostels situated in the middle of the city center. A private room in a hostel is available from US$45 to US$50 a night.

If you want a bit more luxury the Tasmania Inn offers great value for their price. You can book a room from US$65 a night. It is still very close to the city center and they have a restaurant where you can enjoy a dinner buffet for US$21 per person.

The Lea Bush Camp is a very good campsite which is only a 15-minute drive out of Hobart. They only charge AU$10 per person for an unpowered site and AU$12.50 for a powered site. The amenities are spotless and the camp kitchen is a big plus. Outside the bush fire season, you are also allowed to make a campfire at one of the designated spots.

The Tasman Peninsula & Port Arthur

Its time to actually start your self-drive Tasmania road trip! And it starts with a 70-minute drive from Hobart to the rugged Tasman Peninsula. Access to this Peninsula is via the ‘Eaglehawk Neck’, which is an isthmus of only 30 meters wide. Back in the old days, this place was guarded by dogs to prevent the convicts from escaping.

Most of the peninsula is a national park and it offers spectacular coastlines, blowholes, caves and two world heritage listed convict sites. There are also lots of walking tracks!

Depending on how much time you have I would suggest taking at least 1 day to explore the highlights of this part of Tasmania. If you do have an extra day, put on your hiking boots and take one of the incredible hikes!

Tour recommendation for Tasman Peninsula:

Enjoy a day in a sea kayak surrounded with a wide variety of wildlife. Tasman Peninsula Full-Day Sea Kayak Excursion

Port Arthur Historic Site

Port Arthur historic site is a world heritage listed site and is the best-preserved convict settlement in Australia. Explore the old buildings and take in the history that still feels alive when you wander around.

One of the best things to do here is taking the  ghost tour ! Hear spooky stories and enjoy the atmospheric grounds and buildings while you learn something about history!

Coal mines historic site

Another world heritage listed site is the coal mines. A place where convicts were doing forced labor. Old buildings are still standing and you can have a look around and take pictures during a guided tour while you learn all about this place. You can also walk the Convicts Coal Mine Circuit which leads you around the place in two hours.

Tasmanian Devil UNZOO

In contrary to a regular zoo, the animals are free in their habitat and the visitors can watch them from certain ‘cages’ in this habitat. This creates spectacular up-close sights and a lot more interaction with the animals.

If you go to the Tasmanian Devil UNZOO, make sure to see the Tasmanian Devil feeding and the bird show! Both real impressive! For tickets check out their website , or click on the day tour below to combine Port Arthur with the UNZOO.

From Hobart: Port Arthur and Tasmanian Devil Unzoo Day Tour

Walking tracks

There are a lot of walking tracks available on the Tasman Peninsula. One of the most famous hikes is the Tasman Coastal Hike which takes 3-5 days to complete. Luckily you can also do parts of this trail in half a day or a full day. Click here for more information.

Places to stay Port Arthur

There are a couple of places to stay in the area of Port Arthur, as well as hotels as campsites, but they are all pretty pricey. If you just drive off the peninsula, passed the Eaglehawk Neck, there is the Lufra Hotel and apartments . Situated at the beachfront they are offering fully self-contained rooms for only US$80 a night.

Great Eastern Drive

The Great Eastern Drive is a 176 km long road between Orford and St. Helens on Tasmania’s East Coast. The road leads you right through the East Coast wine region. There are lots of beaches to explore, hikes to do, and wines to taste!

Maria Island

Maria Island is a natural wildlife sanctuary with historic ruins, beautiful bays, and incredible cliffs. It is a no-car island where you can only get to from the passenger ferry from Triabunna. It takes about 30 minutes with the ferry. You can find the ferry times here on the timetable.

There are several hikes to do on the island that will let you explore several highlights, like the painted cliffs, which are limestone rock formations, and the convict sites at Darlington.

During your visit, you will probably spot a lot of wildlife, like echidnas and wallabies. With a bit of luck, you might also spot a Tasmanian Devil!

Hiking and biking are the main activities to do on this beautiful island. Bikes are for rent from Darlington. Renting a bike will allow you to see quite a lot of the island in just one day! If you like to explore it on foot or want to spend the night there for a higher chance to see the wildlife, you can stay here an extra day.

Accommodation on Maria Island is very basic. It is either a room with 6 to 14 bunk beds or a campsite. There is also no possibility of purchasing any food or drinks, so you need to bring everything yourself! If you aren’t a big fan of this basic accommodation, but still like to see Maria Island, you can go there and back to the mainland within a day.

See below the tours we really like on Maria Island:

Top Tour: Maria Island: Day Trip with Walk, Wombats, and Picnic Lunch

Back on the mainland, you’ll drive 50km from Triabunna to Swansea. On your way, you’ll pass some small towns like Little Swanport and Rocky Hills.

From Swansea, it takes you another 50km to reach Bicheno. On this route, you’ll find some of the best vineyards of the East Coast of Tasmania. For example, check out Milton Vineyard, Gala Estate, Spring Vale Wines, Devil’s Corner, or Freycinet Vineyard to taste some of Tasmania’s best wines!

Coles Bay & Freycinet National Park

Freycinet National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Tasmania. It is beautiful and there are plenty of options when it comes to activities.

From the road junction before Bicheno, it is about 30 km one way to reach the car park of Freycinet National park. From here you can start pretty much all the hikes and explore the Freycinet Park.

Friendly beaches

Before you arrive at Coles Bay you’ll find Friendly Beaches. A lot of people skip them and drive straight into the national park, but I think they are worth a stop to stroll around.

There are tons of viewpoints to see this beautiful part of the coastline, it almost blinds your eyes! There are also many beach access points to get onto the beach and walk around or lay down on the soft white sand.

Coles Bay is a small town and the main entry point to the Freycinet National Park. You can get accommodation here if you like to spend a couple of days in the park, which I would definitely recommend. If you are camping you can book ahead for a campsite in the park itself, which is pretty affordable for an accommodation!

Don’t forget to return to Coles Bay after an intense day with lots of walking to get a super delicious ice cream from the Ice Creamery. Just because you really deserved it!

Our favourite tour:

This tour really impressed us Freycinet National Park: Guided Walking Tour

Wineglass Bay

This is probably the spot every traveler wants to see when they go to Freycinet National Park and for a good reason! The view on Wineglass bay is absolutely stunning with the clear blue waters divided by a small strip of white sand and high mountains with green trees. The contrast just really crushes it here!

You’ll get the best view on Wineglass Bay from the top of Mount Amos. This is a fairly difficult hike where you need to climb over the rocks to get there. Really…climbing with both hands and feet is necessary to get there.

I understand that is not a suitable hike for everyone. Luckily there is also the Wineglass Bay Lookout Trail, which is a 1.5 km one-way moderate trail. From the Wineglass Bay Lookout, you can get to the beach in another 1.5 km. This trail is quite steep with a series of stairs. But it is worth all the effort because the beach is absolutely stunning!

Honeymoon Bay

The Honeymoon bay is actually part of the Oyster bay and is a picturesque stop. The white-sanded beach with the yellow boulders and the green trees make the view almost unbelievable. Definitely worth a stop for a picture or even a swim if the weather allows it!

Continue the Great Eastern Drive

Fulfilled after soaking up some beautiful views, doing some awesome hikes, and lovely swims, you can continue your Tasmania road trip going North on the Great Eastern Drive.

Bicheno is one of the bigger cities along the East Coast and is famous for all the wildlife that can be seen here. It is near the East Coast Natureworld , which is a Wildlife Sanctuary. At night you can take a penguin tour in Bicheno to see little penguins, which are the smallest penguins in the world. SPOILER ALERT: Scroll down to Burnie for an even better penguin viewing opportunity!

A famous sight in Bicheno is the blowhole. Watch the waves crashing on the cliffs and spray up high in the air!

Tip: In Bicheo, you have a lot of choices when it comes to accommodation. Simply check booking.com for a hotel or hostel, or check the Wikicamps app for a free campsite.

The 50 kilometers between Bicheno and Scamander is called the Surf Coast. The white-sand beaches, the crystal clear blue waters and the reliable swells make it the place to be for surfers! But even if you don’t surf, you will enjoy the beauty of these beaches.

The last 20 kilometers of the Great Eastern Drive takes you to St. Helens. This is the hub for fishing boats and a good location to try fishing yourself during a fishing trip. Don’t forget to taste the fish & chips. It doesn’t get fresher than that!

Bay of Fires

The next stop on your self-drive Tasmania trip is the Bay of Fires. This is a conservation reserve famous for its crystal clear water, white sandy beaches, and granite boulders covered with orange mosses.

Unlike the name suggests, it isn’t just one bay where you can see these spectacular views. It is actually a 40 km long coastal strip between Binalong Bay and Eddystone Point.

When the sun sets it becomes even more magical. The orange sky colors the same as the orange mosses on the boulders and together with the white sand and the blue ocean it is perfect photo for a postcard!

There are lots of free camps along the coast, which make it very easy to access the beach during sunset or sunrise. If you prefer to stay at a hostel or hotel, St. Helens is your best chance to get accommodation for a reasonable price.

Tour Recommendation:

If you don’t have that much time but you really want a nice impression of the Island, check out the tour below:

North East Tasmania

After the Bay of Fires, you’ll start to drive to the West. The North-Eastern part you cross isn’t much to explore, yet there are quite a few stops worth it between Eddystone Point and Launceston!

Little Blue Lake

From Eddystone Point it is only a 40 km road trip to Little Blue Lake. Like the name suggests, it is a small lake with incredibly blue water. When I saw it, for a moment I thought I was in Canada.

The blue lake, deep down at the foot of the mountains, surrounded by incredible green trees, is absolutely stunning to see. Take some time to wander around and take some pictures before you continue your way. It is not very well known among tourists, so you might have the place to yourself!

Another 30 kilometers takes you to Derby, a small town famous for it’s Blue Derby mountain bike trails. So, if you have a day left and feel like getting out of the car and be active, this is your chance!

You can rent a mountain bike in the park and cycle uphill before you cross downhill on the 125 km available tracks.

Bridestowe Lavender Estate

Next stop on your self-drive Tasmania road trip: The Bridestowe Lavender Estate. This Lavender Farm, where they grow French Lavender, is open year-round. It is believed that it is the largest commercial plantation of Lavandula Angustifolia in the world!

The lavender flowers are during the high season. Normally the flowering season runs from somewhere in December until the end of January. This is also the only time a year that you have to pay an entrance fee of AU$10 per person

Tip: Before you pay your entrance fee, check out the status of the flowers on their website . It would be a shame to pay and not see what you expected.

From the Lavender farm, you drive 50 kilometers South West to reach Launceston. A pretty vibrant city with lots of shopping and dining possibilities.

If you fly in on Launceston airport, this is where your self-drive Tasmania road trip starts.

Cataract Gorge

The Cataract Gorge is Launceston’s own wilderness which you can reach in a 15-minute walk from the city center. It is crazy how close this is! The zig-zag trail takes you from the car park, over the Kings bridge towards the First Basin. Here, you’ll find a small cafe and a beautiful swimming pool. No wonder the locals call this Launceston’s beach!

If you have a couple of days extra to spend around Tasmania and have the budget, you can take a flight from Launceston to King Island or Flinders Island. Both these islands are only accessible by plane.

More North you’ll find the Cliff grounds, which is a garden with exotic plants and trees. At the Cataract Gorge, you also find a footbridge and even a chairlift to cross the river! The entrance fee to the park is absolutely free, but for the chairlift, they charge you a couple of dollars.

Explore the Gorge during this boat trip: Launceston: 2.5-Hour Morning or Afternoon Discovery Cruise

Fly to King Island or Flinders Island

Tamar Valley

Only a 25 km drive from Launceston you’ll find the Tasmanians Tamar Valley. This area is known as an excellent wine region. With over 30 vineyards this is the place to be when it comes to wine tasting and culinary foods.

Places to stay

In Launceston, you can book a backpacker accommodation for US$45 a night and a hotel room from US$60 a night.

A nice campsite just off the road towards Devonport is Quamby Corner. They offer unpowered sites for AU$10 per person per night and AU$14 for a powered site. The amenities are very clean and you can use the laundry machine free of charge!

Launceston – Devonport is a 100 km drive. Devonport is the main city where the ferry arrives. So, if you want to bring your own car, this is where your self-drive road trip around Tasmania will start.

It is a pretty big city for Tasmania and you can find a lot of shops, cafes, restaurants, and pubs to enjoy dinner or a drink.

In Devonport, there are several accommodations available between US$70 and US$100 per room per night. Most of them offer a private bathroom and some include breakfast.

Tour recommendation

Spot the wildlife of Tasmania during this 2 hour night walking tour. Check this tour, Cradle Mountain Wildlife Spotting after Dark.

Cradle Mountain

Your Tasmania road trip continues with a drive of almost 90 km which will get you from Devonport to Cradle Mountain National Park. This is the most famous National Park in Tasmania with the iconic Cradle Mountain.

There is a huge car park at the entrance where you can take a free shuttle bus to get deeper into the park. The shuttle service stops at several points in the park, so you can choose a spot to get off. This probably depends on your plan for the day and what you want to explore in the Cradle Mountain National Park.

Tours you have to check:

Click here to explore this amazing area and enjoy one of our favourite tours.

Dove lake is a lake at the foot of Cradle Mountain. You can follow the pretty easy trail that takes you all the way around the lake in 2 to 3 hours. The total length of the trail is 6 km and takes you along the iconic boatshed, which is really picturesque with sunset.

Cradle Mountain Summit

The trail to the summit of Cradle Mountain is a 12.8 km round trip with a climb of 600m. The trail leads you first to Marion’s Lookout, which gives you a breathtaking view over Dove Lake on the one side and on the other side, the Crater Lake.

Then the trail will take you to the Kitchen Hut, which is nothing more than a shelter hut for emergencies. You can drop your bag here before you start the last climb to the peak. But don’t forget to bring some water and drinks with you because this is the hardest part of the trail and you are going to need it!

The last part to the top is really rough and it takes both hands and feet to get there. It is no longer a trail, but a climb on the rocks. Therefore it is forbidden to go to the summit with rainy or snowy circumstances. The rocks get really slippery and it simply is too dangerous.

When you reached the top you take the same route back to the Kitchen hut and continue your way to Dove Lake to walk along the lake back to the bus station to take the shuttle from there to the main car park.

Overland track

Another hiking track, that starts in Cradle Mountain National Park is the overland track. This is a hike of 65 kilometers which takes about 5 to 6 days to complete. It is Australia’s premier alpine walk and an adventure is guaranteed!

This hiking trail, that is loved by hikers from all over the world, starts at the iconic Cradle Mountain and leads you all the way through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area towards Lake st. Clair. This is Australia’s deepest lake and the views from up the mountain are more than stunning.

Without any facilities on the way, you have to carry everything. Which means a place to sleep, food, and water. There are some opportunities to fill up water on the way, but always check where from the information center before you start.

Must Read: 11 essentials you need on every backpacking trip

And there are so many more things to do in Cradle Mountain National Park.

Cradle Mountain National Park can be explored in 1 or 2 days. The Cradle Mountain Highlanders is a good place to stay for a pretty reasonable price, taking the location into consideration. You will find it costs US$140 per night for a fully equipped cabin.

Another stunning accommodation at the edge of Cradle Mountains national park is the Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge . They offer a luxury spa, wooden cabins with views and a breakfast buffet is also included. You can book a chalet from US$280 a night.

There are also a lot of free camps in the area!

Mole Creek Caves

If you like to explore caves, you should definitely visit the Mole Creek Caves. There are multiple tours a day that lead you around the underground lakes in the Marakoopa Cave. In this cave, you also have the possibility to see glow worms! The King Solomons Cave is characterized by the lavish colors and formations.

The caves have the same climate all year round. It is around 9 degrees, so be prepared and get dressed well before you enter!

Walls of Jerusalem

Walls of Jerusalem is another national park, which is less visited because it is not accessible by car. This alpine wonderland is only to be explored by the true adventurers among us. You need to be able to handle a multiple-day hike, to get up to the walls and take in the beautiful views from there.

There are no facilities, so you have to bring your own camping gear and food for the time you stay. Luckily there is a possibility to fuel up on drinking water! Come prepared, as the weather is very unpredictable!

Burnie is a small town on the North shore of Tasmania. It has a few accommodations, a small shopping center, and some convenient stores. In my opinion, this place should really be a stop on your Tasmanian road trip if you want to see the little penguins.

Watching Little Penguins

The main reason we went to Burnie was to see the Little Penguins. In Burnie, they have an observation center and in the evenings they provide guided tours that are 100% free of charge.

The guides are very knowledgable and answer all the questions you have. They also tell you more about the cycle penguins go through each year, from nesting to pairing to breeding and to letting go of their young.

The most amazing thing about viewing penguins here is that you can get so close without disturbing them. There is a fence built along the beach to keep the penguins safe in their environment and not roam everywhere in town.

There are some nests right next to the fence and you can easily photograph the babies without having a crazy expensive zoom lens on your camera! Make sure to not use your flash! Once it gets dark, the penguins return from the sea to feed their babies, which is a spectacle to watch.

When it comes to accommodation in Burnie, my best recommendation is: Burnie Ocean View Motel and Caravan Park . They offer fully self-contained studios with a sea view. You don’t even need to get out and you can participate in a tour to view the penguins coming from the sea. You can literally see it from your balcony!

Besides the incredible beach view, they have a heated indoor swimming pool, barbeque facilities, and free Wifi. All that for only US$100 per night.

Stanley & the Nut

From Burnie, it is around 75 km to get to Stanley. A small town at the foot of The Nut. This is an extinct volcano, which you can access by foot. A short, but steep climb will get you to the top (you can also take the chairlift for a fee). Walk the short circuit on the top and enjoy the many beautiful views over Stanley. You will see the ocean and over to the other far corners of Tasmania.

Tarkine National Park

After a 50 km drive from Stanley, you’ll arrive in the Tarkine National Park which is in the North West of Tasmania. The Tarkine Forest Reserve is an area where you can find rainforest, sand dunes, and coastal heathlands.

Just driving through the park gives you beautiful views. Don’t forget to stop at ‘the edge of the world’. If you cross the ocean to the West from here, you won’t see any landmass until you reach Argentina. It is the longest uninterrupted distance in any ocean on Earth!

Besides driving through the park, which is already incredible, there are a lot of activities to do. Especially water activities like kayaking or a riverboat cruise. From here you can explore the waterways which are surrounded by blackwood forests.

Tarkine National Park offers lots of camping opportunities. There are also lots of free camps along the coast and campsites with some more facilities in the heart of the park.

If you prefer a hotel there’s only one possibility, which is the Tarkinegrove . It is very close to Roger River in the heart of the Tarkine National Park. Rooms can be booked from US$150 a night and offer a fully self-contained cabin with patio.

Leaving the Tarkine National Park you’ll head towards Strahan. This will probably be your longest drive as it takes 230 kilometers of windy mountain roads to get there. Don’t underestimate this distance, as it can easily take up to 3.5 to 4 hours to drive!

Strahan is iconic for the West Coast Wilderness Railway. Join the train ride and step back in history to the 1950’s. It is an unforgettable railway journey along 35km of wild rainforest tracks between Queenstown and Strahan.

From Strahan, it is only a short drive to Queenstown, situated in a valley on the western slopes of Mount Owen on the West Coast Range. It is a cute little town that makes you feel like being back in the time of the cowboys!

There are a couple of pubs where you can dine a pub meal and it is also a good place to stay overnight. For only US$56 a night you can sleep in the Empire Hotel , which includes breakfast.

Tour recommendation Strahan:

Ready for a nice morning cruise? Check out this tour: Strahan: World Heritage Cruise on Gordon River with Lunch.

Frenchman’s Cap

Driving out of Queenstown will lead you along the Horsetail falls. This is a seasonal waterfall that can best be seen after some rainfall. A parking spot next to the highway gives you the opportunity to get out of the car and walk on the boardwalk for a closer view.

After 55 km from Queenstown, you’ll reach the parking area at the Lyell Highway inside the Wild Rivers National Park. You can’t miss it, as many signs will inform you where to park. This is where the trail to Frenchman’s Cap starts.

This is another place that can only be explored on foot. A tremendous 4-day hike takes you afoot to one of the most scenic mountain peaks of Tasmania , the Frenchman’s Cap.

Also with this hike, you have to carry everything yourself. You won’t find any facilities or shops along the route, so be prepared and take enough food, water, and a tent. Don’t forget to bring proper clothes as the weather can change rapidly.

If you are not sure what to bring, check out our blog post about the 11 essentials you need to bring on every overnight backpacking trip . Bring these and you know for sure you will be well prepared!

Mount Field National Park

Another 170 km further you arrive in Mount Field National Park. This park was the first National Park of Tasmania and is well catered for tourists. A visitor center, souvenir shop, and a cafe provide you everything you need.

Russel falls

The Russel falls is the most popular attraction of this park and with a good reason. The beautiful waterfall thunders down over several plateaus and is surrounded by true green exotic trees and plants.

Falls circuit

The Russel falls is actually the first of many waterfalls you come across when you walk the waterfall circuit. A 4.5 km hike leads you along the Horseshoe falls, the tall trees area and the Lady Baron Falls.

The trail contains a lot of steps and goes through the middle of the rainforest, where you can see some amazing plants and trees. Also, keep your eyes open to spot wildlife!

Tour recommendation:

Enjoy a day trip full of wildlife and stunning nature, check out this tour: Mt Wellington, Mt Field, Bonorong & Richmond Day Trip.

Gordon Dam – Tasmania Wilderness Reserve

Drive another 100 km further into the Tasmania Wilderness Reserve and you get to the Gordon Dam. This dam, also called the Gordon River Dam, is 198m long and 140m high.

At full capacity, the dam holds back so much water that Lake Gordon becomes the largest lake in Australia! It is also one of the world’s highest commercial abseils, so if you are in for an adventure, you can get it here!

Bruny Island

Drive 100 km back towards the junction with the highway and from there it is another 100 km to the ferry terminal for Bruny Island. This will be the last stop on your self-drive Tasmania road trip! Last, but not least I can say!

Tour recommendations for Bruny Island:

Bruny Island has so much to offer, we made a list of our favourite tours to make your trip the best.

Ferry to Bruny Island

It takes about 20 minutes to cross over to Bruny Island. The ferry departs regularly 1 or 2 times an hour, depending on the season. It is smart to bring your car along, as the island is quite big, and exploring on foot will take you a lot more time.

The ferry fee is AU$38 for a return ticket, which you mainly pay for the car, since pedestrians and any other passengers are free of charge.

Once on Bruny Island, the first highlight you will pass is the Neck. This is a small isthmus connecting the Northern part and the Southern part of Bruny Island. Walk up the stairs to the viewing platform to get a 360 degrees view!

At the beach of the Neck, there is also a Little Penguin viewing platform. Get there just before the sun sets and wait for the penguins to arrive at the beach. You can see the Little Penguins from September till January.

November and December are the best times of the year, as it is the breeding season. This time of the year you can watch the penguins feed their young!

White Bennet’s Wallabies

The South Bruny National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the White Bennet’s Wallabies. A genetically modified Bennet’s Wallaby that is missing the pigment color to their fur. Some are albino’s which results in a white wallaby with red eyes and a cute bright pink nose.

Your biggest chance to see these animals is at the Southside of Adventure Bay, which is their main habitat. People have often spotted them at the campgrounds. But another good place to look for them is at the start of the Fluted Cape Walk. Which is a nice hike to do anyway!

Whale Watching

From June till October, you can also watch whales from Adventure Bay! This is the main season that the whales are migrating between Antarctica and the more Northern tropical waters.

Cape Bruny Lighthouse

Drive to the Southernmost point of Bruny Island and you find the Cape Bruny Lighthouse. The drive takes about 45 minutes from the Neck and takes you on some windy and very scenic roads.

The walk from the car park to the Lighthouse is easy and short. Take some time to walk around and to take in all the stunning views. Also, keep your eyes open for Echidnas, as they love to wander around on this place!

Although Bruny island can be explored within a day, you might want to spend the night here. Especially if you’d like to view the Little Penguins at the Neck.

Camping is easy on Bruny Island, with lots of free camps and paid camping spots. If you like to stay in a hotel , you can book a stay from US$100 a night.

Back to Hobart

To make your self-drive Tasmania road trip complete, you take the ferry back to the mainland and drive in 35 minutes into Hobart city Centre. Here you can stay another night or two before flying back to the mainland of Australia.

If you started your Tasmania road trip in Launceston or Devonport, your next stop will be the Tasman Peninsula & Port Arthur.

Pin for Later

We love to hear from you!

Thank you so much for reading this self-drive trip planner for a stunning Tasmania road trip. I hope it helps you with planning a trip to Tasmania and on deciding what you want to see and do!

Don’t forget to check out our Tasmania Travel Guide which gives you some basic, but very handy information before you travel to Tasmania. Exploring more of Australia? Check out our Australia page to find out what to see and do in the rest of this amazing country. Also, download the Australia preparation guide below to make it super easy to plan your trip around Australia and Tasmania!

Are you ready to discover more about Australia?  Check out our Australia page to read all our Australia articles.

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10 thoughts on “Self-Drive Tasmania: The Best Trip Planner for an Ultimate Road Trip”

So many great places to visit in Tasmania! Bridestowe Lavender Estate, the beaches, and Russel falls look simply stunning! I hope to them up close!

Wow there’s so many incredible places to see in Tasmania! I want to visit soo much more of Australia and Tasmania just shot up to the top of my list!

Tasmania´s natural landscapes look stunning! I´d love to see the Aurora Australis and visit The Russel falls! Thanks for the useful tips!

SUch a detailed post and great tips!

Thanks for the great guide! What a picturesque drive!

Hannah | https://getlost.blog/

Tasmania looks gorgeous-and you had me sold at whale watching! I’m so close to Australia, but I haven’t been out there yet.

I spent 6 months in Australia and never found the time to explore Tasmania, but it looks so incredible with no shortage of things to do. Hopefully I can get there soon.

Who would have thought there are so many beautiful and wonderful places. Thanks for the great pictures.

Really like your Always around the world. On Tasmania Very useful. Is it possible to get a hard copy of this ? Regards Graham

Hi Graham, I’m happy you like it! We really loved Tasmania! Unfortunately, we do not provide hard copies of our posts. But you could print it at home 🙂 Have a nice and safe trip!

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Tasmanian Self Drive: Hobart to Launceston

Itinerary Details

FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: On this expedited self-drive program, discover the natural wonders of Tasmania, the enchanting and dramatic island-state just south of the Australian mainland. Here you'll find cascading waterfalls, rich wildlife and a fascinating history.

See ‘The Natural State’ your way on a Tasmanian self drive tour from Hobart.

Head to Strahan to explore the island’s rugged West Coast. Visit the towns of New Norfolk and Queenstown, or take a trip on Macquarie Bay to visit the infamous convict-era penal colony of Sarah Island. Nearby Cradle Mountain embodies ‘The Natural State’ like no place else. With 2 nights here, explore an endless variety of bushwalks and seek out some of Tasmania’s unique wildlife.

Launceston is the largest city in Northern Tasmania and is central to many key attractions including Cataract Gorge. Visit Boag’s brewery or take a Ghost Tour of this historic town.

Itinerary View Trip Map

Arrive hobart.

After arriving in Hobart collect your rental vehicle. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Crowne Plaza Hobart

Located in the city center, Crowne Plaza Hobart connects it's visitors, business or leisure, to the heart of Tasmania. A warm welcome to Tasmania's capital, our contemporary hotel offers well thought out spaces to connect and recharge and modern rooms designed to ensure you rest …

Located in the city center, Crowne Plaza Hobart connects it's visitors, business or leisure, to the heart of Tasmania. A warm welcome to Tasmania's capital, our contemporary hotel offers well thought out spaces to connect and recharge and modern rooms designed to ensure you rest and relax while making the most out of your stay. If you're in town for business, we're the perfect base, centrally located close to business and Government districts you're just an energizing walk to work.

• Business Centre
• Fitness Centre
• Internet Access

Photo gallery

More Details

Hobart to Strahan (298 kms/185 miles - 3.5 hours)

Travel north-west, bound for Strahan. Along the way enjoy a stop at the historic towns of New Norfolk or Queenstown. Continue on to the fishing village of Strahan.

Franklin Manor Strahan

Franklin Manor is located on Macquarie Harbour in the historic township of Strahan close to the fringe of the Wild Rivers National Park. Franklin Manor is a boutique hotel, originally built for the Harbour Master in 1896, with several room styles providing an exclusive wilderness …

Franklin Manor is located on Macquarie Harbour in the historic township of Strahan close to the fringe of the Wild Rivers National Park. Franklin Manor is a boutique hotel, originally built for the Harbour Master in 1896, with several room styles providing an exclusive wilderness retreat for travellers. Strahan provides opportunities to explore isolated rugged West Coast beaches, thundering surf, towering waterfalls, ancient rainforests and the famous Gordon and Franklin Rivers. Franklin Manor reception closes at 6pm, if arriving later please call ahead and make arrangements to collect your room keys.

• Restaurant(s)

Strahan to Cradle Mountain (150 kms/93 miles - 2 hours)

This morning travel north to the Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park area. Covering some of Tasmania's highest country, the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, with its many lakes and mountain peaks, is famous for its magnificent alpine scenery.

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

If you appreciate the finer things in life, this is the place for you. Surround yourself with the pristine wilderness of World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and be treated to one of Australia's iconic wilderness experiences - Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge. …

If you appreciate the finer things in life, this is the place for you. Surround yourself with the pristine wilderness of World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and be treated to one of Australia's iconic wilderness experiences - Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge. This serene retreat offers a haven of luxury steeped by breath-taking mountain surrounds and spectacular wilderness. The lodge is home to one of Tasmania's acclaimed dining experiences and Australia's most spectacular wilderness spa, while the luxury cabins and mountain venues are perfectly unique. Just add cascading streams, an abundance of wildlife and that discreet yet impeccable Peppers service. You won't want to leave.

• Conference Facilities
• Currency Exchange
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• Spa(Hot-tub)/Jacuzzi
• Wheelchair Accessible Rooms

Cradle Mountain

Today at leisure to explore Cradle Mountain. You may like to relax or do one of the many walks the lodge has to offer.

Cradle Mountain to Launceston (157 kms/98 miles - 2 hours)

Depart Cradle Mountain and travel east to Launceston. Along the way travel through Deloraine and Westbury. On arrival in Launceston drop off your rental vehicle.

Other Information

Departures:, price includes:.

• 4 nights first-class accommodation
• 5 days Car hire including mandatory vehicle insurance

PRICE EXCLUDES:

• National Park entrance fees
• .Airfare and all taxes
• Gratuities unless otherwise stated
• Items of a personal nature
• Optional excursions
• Beverages unless otherwise stated
• Visa fees if applicable
• Park fees unless stated.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS :  Prices are "from", per person, based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates will apply, Limited seats/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability.  Rates for single or triple travelers are available on request – please inquire.

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Tasmania 5 Day Luxury Self Drive Tour

Spend a luxurious 5 days in tasmania.

If you’re after a short but luxurious taste of Tasmania, the 5 Day Luxury Self Drive Package is a perfect choice. Explore the wonders of the East Coast, Hobart and the magic of Bruny Island, staying in luxury accommodation each night.

Accommodation

4 nights accommodation, We'll find you the best pillows to sleep on

5 days car hire, large car (downgrades available)

National Parks Pass

National Parks Pass allows you entry to experience Tasmania's world-class national parks

Brewery Tour

Mt. Wellington and Cascade Brewery Tour

Wineglass Bay Cruise

Experience an unforgettable 4-hour cruise to Wineglass Bay

Gourmet Tour

Bruny Island Gourmet Traveller Day Tour

Daily itinerary

Day 1 – hobart – freycinet peninsula.

Arrive at Hobart Airport before 12pm, pick up a full-size auto rental car. Start your journey up the sunny east-coast with destination Freycinet. Along the way tempt the taste buds at the many wineries recommended on your itinerary and Kates Berry Farm. Arrive into Freycinet and enjoy the prime location of Saffire or Freycinet Lodge. In the afternoon, walk up to Wineglass Bay Lookout for one of the best views you will see on the trip.

Day 2 – Freycinet Peninsula

In the morning, be picked up from the port at your hotel after breakfast. Experience an unforgettable 4-hour cruise to Wineglass Bay in the morning, taking in the sights and history of the Freycinet Peninsula from the ultimate comfort of the Sky Lounge. You cruise from the gentle shores of Coles Bay to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, stopping for lunch at Wineglass Bay to enjoy some of Tasmania’s finest fresh produce. The scenery is stunning, the wildlife abundant, and you will experience a rare, intimate outlook on one of Tasmania’s most extraordinary places. In the afternoon, soak up the views from your accommodation.

Day 3 – Freycinet Peninsula – Hobart

Drive to your Hobart accommodation and settle into your new home for two nights. The Superior Waterfront Rooms at MACq01 offer unspoilt waterfront views of the Harbour. These immaculately furnished rooms occupy Hobart’s finest real estate, proudly connected to Hobart’s Old Wharf with river views just beyond your private balcony. Take your tour up Mt Wellington and enjoy the spectacular views. Arriving at the summit, view Hobart from the 3 lookouts and stand on the 1,272m pinnacle point. Upon descent, stop at the Cascades Brewery.

Day 4 – Hobart – Bruny Island

Enjoy a seven-course gourmet Bruny Island day. Bruny Island Traveler is a full-day tour of Bruny Island, exploring spectacular landscapes and gourmet local produce. You’ll visit the home of Bruny Island’s cheese, oysters, fudge, berries, wine, beer and whisky to savour their produce and hear the stories behind the harvest. At every stop, we sit back, relax and enjoy a fully inclusive experience. Throughout the day you’ll see incredible scenery. The light bush of the northern island gives way to the dense rainforest of the south – this pristine wilderness is home to diverse wildlife including rare white wallabies. See Bruny Island with a local guide who will show you the very best of what the island has to offer.

Day 5 – Hobart and Departure

Stroll from your accommodation to the Salamanca Market. This iconic Saturday tradition brings Hobart’s waterfront alive with a celebration of the senses. The historic sandstone warehouses form the background to this bustling event, with the waterfront beckoning just alongside. Flights to depart in the afternoon to avoid missing out on this Tassie tradition. Drive to the airport and drop the car back at the airport as your flights depart. Thank you for visiting Tasmania!

Need help booking this tour?

Our top pick day tours to consider.

West Coast & Karijini Overland Adventure

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Short note to thank you for a terrific itinerary and choice of accommodations. We got back from Australia having had the best 'real' holiday in years. Loved it! The order of the trip was perfect and all the hotel bookings worked seamlessly.

We had a wonderful time! We so appreciate your arranging everything for us. It all went very smoothly. We just had to show up where and when you told us to. It took away any stress to this leg of our journey.

At long last & very overdue, we wish to thank you very much for all the bookings you made on our behalf for our adventure. We were pleased with all the accommodation bookings you made, we particularly noted we got what we asked for, walk in showers, twin beds & all clean & tidy. Thanks Madi, well done!!

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• Tasmania Luxury Holiday Packages

• Australia Self Drive Holiday Itineraries

Looking for a genuine luxury escape in Tasmania?

We know Tasmania luxury better than anyone and our self drive packages let you indulge in the absolute cream of Tasmania.

View our all inclusive luxury packages below, which can all be customised to meet your exact needs - enquire on any tour below or reach out to our team and tell us about your dream Tasmania experience.

Luxury 10 Day Tasmania Self Drive Tour

First Light Travel

Get a true taste of Tasmania with this 10-day luxury self-drive tour which with a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Explore Hobart , Launceston , and the national parks of Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Parks . Experience the Wild Southwest by Plane and Boat , a Truffle Farm, and Tamar Valley Wine & Cheese Fun.

Luxury 8 Day Tasmania Self Drive Itinerary

When it comes to world-class experiences, tiny Tasmania spectacularly delivers. The alpine wilderness of Cradle Mountain , pristine beaches of Freycinet, and the heritage towns of Launceston and Hobart will charm you beyond your expectations. If your wish list is long but time is short, this 8 Day Self Drive adventure is your perfect fit  - This is Lux to a T.

8 Day Lap of Luxury Tasmania Tour

Take a holiday that is luxurious in its essence - visit the stunning locations of Hobart, Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park - relax and unwind in luxurious accommodations. Whet your appetite for Tasmania with its stunning white beaches on the coast and lakes set in the outstanding wilderness of Cradle Mountain - then enjoy the vibe with the coolest little capital of  Hobart.

New Zealanders: These tours have been designed to match the flights which will depart Auckland on a Sunday so that they hit Hobart on a Saturday for the Salamanca market.

Tasmania Winter Wonderland Self Drive Tour

Tasmania's rugged beauty takes on an enchanted quality in winter. The air is crisp, and falling snow dusts the mountains and eucalyptus trees. Festivals celebrate apple cider, chocolate, singing, and the winter solstice. Clear nights are ideal for stargazing and seeing the southern lights of the Aurora Australis. It's also the perfect season for a sip of Tasmanian whisky by a cozy open fire.  Highlights include Taking the ghost tour of Port Arthur, Beautiful Freycinet National Park, An Enchanted Walk Cradle Mountain National Park, and Meeting the Devil.

Wineglass Bay Sail and Walk Tasmania Trip

This amazing sailing and walking trip is the only one of its kind in Tasmania! It takes in the spectacular beaches, peninsulas and island trails found in national parks along the east coast.  Experience the wonders of Maria Island , Freycinet Peninsula , Schouten Island, and the Tasman Peninsula . This walk is supported by the spectacular Lady Eugenie , a 23-metre (75-ft) luxury classic ketch .

7 Day Tasmania Wildlife and Wine Romantic Escape

Together explore the untouched Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area on this wildlife, wine and romantic Tasmanian experience. Taste the best gourmet food and wine Tasmania has to offer. Enjoy a Wine Glass Bay cruise, exploring Freycinet National Park. Wine and Dine at Josef Chromy and do a Half Day Wilderness, Wildlife and Wine Experience in the Coal Valley region near Hobart.

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Tasmania Explorer

Self Drive Tasmania: Perfect Tasmania Itinerary 10 days✅

Excited to self drive Tasmania and looking for the best Tasmania itinerary 10 days? Perfect! We are going to give you exactly that in this self drive Tasmania 10 days exact plan especially made for your next trip.

Tasmania is a fabulous destination to explore by car. The state boasts great local food and wine, numerous historical sites and vast national parks and natural wonders, with much of the state being protected national park.

Your Tasmania self drive holiday itinerary below includes all of this and more, and we believe 10 days is a great amount of time to spend exploring. The state is rather spread out, and by driving from place to place on the easy (and relatively low trafficked) roads, you’ll have the freedom to see the best of Tasmania.

When planning Tasmania holidays, self drive options are very popular. This is because Tasmania is a state made to be explored by your own vehicle whether that’s a rental car or your own. Public buses only run between the main places and you’ll want to see more than this! You’ll love the freedom that comes with a self drive Tasmania itinerary.

You can read more specifically about driving in Tasmania and how it differs to elsewhere here.

To help you come up with your perfect Tasmania self drive itinerary, below we give you exactly this! It’s designed for 10 days in Tasmania and there are also some suggestions if you would prefer a Tasmania 9 day itinerary.

Going for a shorter period? You can find our best 4-5 day itinerary for Tasmania here or our 7 day itinerary for Tasmania here . If you have a bit longer, you may prefer to read our 14 day itinerary for Tasmania self drive here .

So keep reading for your day-by-day, step-by-step 10 days Tasmania self drive itinerary which includes stops, driving times and accommodation suggestions. There is also a 10 days Tasmania itinerary map so you can better picture the route you will be taking.

Note this self drive itinerary Tasmania is on the fast side – it assumes you want to experience as much as possible and get a great taste of Tasmania on your trip. If you like to take things easier, I recommend removing a destination or two or removing some of the stops between places. Just read through and remove the ones from your Tasmania 10 day itinerary that sound least interesting to you.

This trip is suitable for couples, friends, solo travellers and families. If you have young kids, I recommend removing some stops to make it a bit easier however.

Finally, if you have any questions about this Tasmania self drive itinerary blog, let us know in the comments below – we are happy to help you in this ultimate Tasmania tours self drive option!

Click here to download your free Tasmania Road Trip Planner checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip! Wan t help with your itinerary? Find our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here.

• 1.1 Overview
• 2 Tasmania Self Drive Map: 10 days In Tasmania
• 3.1 Where To Stay In Hobart
• 3.2 Car Hire
• 3.3 Mt Wellington
• 3.4 Battery Point
• 3.5 Salamanca Place and Hobart’s Waterfront
• 4.2 Richmond
• 4.3 Richmond Gaol
• 4.4 Old Hobart Town Model Village
• 5.1 Where To Stay In Strahan
• 5.2 Lake St Clair
• 5.3 West Coast Reflections
• 6.1 Gordon River Cruise
• 6.2 Ocean Beach
• 6.3 West Strahan Beach
• 7.1 Where To Stay At Cradle Mountain
• 7.2 West Coast Wilderness Railway
• 7.3 Devils@Cradle
• 8.1 Cradle Mountain
• 9.1 Where To Stay In Launceston
• 9.2 Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm
• 9.3 Tasmania Zoo
• 9.4 Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre
• 10.1 Where To Stay At Coles Bay
• 10.2 Cataract Gorge
• 10.3 Freycinet Marine Farm
• 10.4 Wineglass Bay
• 11.1 Where To Stay At Port Arthur
• 11.2 Port Arthur Historic Site
• 12.1 Doo Town
• 12.2 Blow Hole and Tessellated Pavement
• 13 9 Days Tasmania Itinerary
• 14.1 Related posts:

Perfect Self Drive Tasmania Itinerary 10 days

Remember, this is a full Tasmania 10 day road trip. If you have fewer days, simply pick the days that most appeal – there are more tips for less days below. For more days, read our itinerary here .

Days 1-2 explore Hobart Day 3 drive to Strahan stopping at the Lake St Clair part of the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park Day 4 explore the west coast from Strahan Days 5-6 drive to Cradle Mountain and exploring the Dove Lake area at Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park Day 7 head to Launceston Day 8 hike to famous Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park Day 9 explore Tasmania’s convict heritage at Port Arthur Historic Site Day 10 finish in Hobart

The highlights of these self drive tours Tasmania are:

• Walk through the streets of Richmond and Battery Point on a heritage trail
• See the best of Hobart including Mt Wellington, Mona and Salamanca Place
• See the renowned river reflections on a Gordon River Cruise and the beautiful beaches at Strahan
• Ride the historic West Coast Wilderness Railway through an ancient world heritage listed forest
• Explore Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake
• Sample Tasmania’s famous wine and produce in the Tamar Valley and visit the mining Heritage Centre in Beaconsfield
• Hike an easy track and take in the scenery at the famous Wineglass Bay
• Explore the heritage listed Port Arthur Historic Site and sail the harbour on a cruise

This one of our Tasmania self drive tours is designed to start and finish in Hobart, but you can start and finish from any point.

If you are starting at the Spirit of Tasmania and looking for a self drive Tasmania itinerary from Devonport, I recommend you start on Day 7 and drive straight to Launceston when disembarking. Once you hit day 10, start over on day one and finish up at Cradle Mountain before driving back to Devonport.

If you are looking for a family 10 day road trip Tasmania, this also works great for families but with younger kids, I definitely recommend slowing it down.

If you are catching the Spirit of Tasmania to Tasmania, read our full guide here.

Tasmania Self Drive Map: 10 days In Tasmania

The following map shows you the route this 10 day Tasmania road trip takes around the state. You get to discover the main regions.

Day 1: Arriving in Hobart

Welcome to Hobart! This is the beginning of your itinerary Tasmania in 10 days, and today you’ll explore the capital of Tasmania.

As today is your first day in Hobart, you’ll take it pretty easy.

• Arrive in Hobart and collect your hire car. There are many hire car companies at the airport.
• Head straight to the top of Mount Wellington to see the city and understand the layout.
• Have lunch.
• Check- in to your hotel.
• Explore Battery Point on a heritage walk, then make your way to Salamanca Place and Hobart’s Waterfront.
• Choose one of the many restaurants for dinner. For excellent seafood, try Drunken Admirals.

Where To Stay In Hobart

• BEST – MACq 01 Hotel ( See latest prices here )
• MIDRANGE – Somerset On The Pier ( See latest prices here )
• BUDGET – Central Hotel Hobart ( See latest prices here )

Read our full guide to Hobart accommodation here.

I recommend you book through Bargain Car Rentals . This Tasmanian car rental company has some great deals and availability. Even better is if you use the code: TASEXPLORE you save 5%

Simply click here.

Then after you enter the dates and location, enter: TASEXPLORE for the “Discount Code”.

They are located in both Hobart and Launceston.

You can also find other car hire options here .

Mt Wellington

Mt Wellington (which is officially known as kunanyi) is iconic in Hobart and can be seen from all around the city. It is the first stop on your Tasmania self drive itinerary 10 days.

Driving from the airport to Hobart takes about 20 minutes, and then it’s a further 30 minute drive to the top of Mt Wellington. It’s a relatively easy drive to the top, with many places along the way to stop, take a walk and take photos of the view. The Springs is a popular place to stop and get a coffee, take a walk and use the bathroom.

Continuing up the mountain, you’ll reach the pinnacle where there’s a sheltered observation deck with signs to acquaint you with the city. The view from here really is stunning, and it’s a great place to become familiar with the layout of Hobart. There are also outdoor observation decks, as well as walks and rocks to climb.

It’s worth noting that this is a mountain and as such it can be very cold (dress warmly) and some days can be cloudy obscuring the views. However I still think it’s worth the drive up for the many walks and the fresh mountain air.

Address: Wellington Park TAS 7054

Battery Point

Battery Point is a historic inner city suburb of Hobart, and the best way to explore it is on a heritage walk. You can find a guide to this walk here .

There are many points of interest and you can check to see which ones interest you. I suggest starting at Salamanca Place (you’ll return there afterwards) and taking the historic Kelly Steps (which were built in 1840) and exploring Battery Point from here.

Points of particular interest include the trendy cafes, shops and restaurants on Hampden Road (including Narryna Heritage Museum), Arthurs Circus and Princes Park.

The streets are very pretty with historic cottages and the cafes are a great place to stop for a coffee.

Battery Point is where we live and I’m sure you’ll quickly love it as much as us.

Salamanca Place and Hobart’s Waterfront

After exploring the streets of Battery Point, return to Salamanca Place and see the lined sandstone buildings which have been converted to trendy shops, bars and restaurants.

If you’re looking for souvenirs the shops here sell excellent products Tasmania is famed for (like woodwork, fudge, wine etc), and there are numerous trendy bars to stop for a drink later on. This is where the best bars in Hobart are located.

After exploring Salamanca Place and Salamanca Square, start making your way to Parliament House Gardens and then cross the street to Hobart’s Waterfront.

The waterfront is usually crowded with sailing boats and some nights a food market is held. Enter the floating pontoon at Brook Street Pier, see the converted warehouses near MACq01, explore Mawson’s Huts replica museum and take a photo of the old steam crane.

When the hunger pangs start hitting, there are plenty of places to go for dinner on the waterfront and in Salamanca. This area is known for its excellent fresh seafood, and a particularly good place to sample it is Drunken Admiral. Booking ahead is recommended.

There are plenty of other choices however, including the floating takeaway shops and many other restaurants nearby.

Day 2: Enjoying Hobart

Day 2 of this road trip in Tasmania is all about seeing more of Hobart.

• Start the day at MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). You can either take a ferry from the waterfront or drive (about a 15 minute drive)
• Head in the direction of Richmond and eat lunch at a restaurant nearby (I recommend Coal River Farm).
• Explore the town of Richmond and then return to Hobart and have dinner in Salamanca Place (Richmond is about 30 minutes from Hobart).

Read our full guide to Hobart here.

MONA is a world renowned museum built by the eccentric David Walsh, and it’s the only must see museum on your Tasmania travel itinerary 10 days.

You have two options of getting here – you can drive or take a ferry. The ferry is a nice 30 minute journey where you can take in the Derwent River views on the way. However if you’re heading to Richmond afterwards, I’d recommend driving.

MONA is impressive for several reasons. Firstly, it’s located on the grounds of a winery and mostly located under the ground, etched into the sandstone. It’s also home to a wealth of artwork, and some particularly interesting and strange pieces can be found here.

You can download the Mona O app to your phone which is like your own tour guide so that you can read and listen tot things which interest you (and ignore the things that don’t).

The museum is set over several floors and some exhibits are interactive making it great for visiting with kids. When we visited there was an interesting maze, a room with TV sets and people singing (which was oddly uncomfortable) and a Poop Machine (to show how strange the exhibits can be)!

You can also find a library and various bars and eating options as well as a big grassy area outside and a playground.

There are also historical artifacts to be found here from an Egyptian sarcophagus and other artwork from the past. Some exhibitions do require an extra ticket but most things are included in the price of entry.

You can pre-purchase tickets online, and it really is an interesting (albeit sometimes strange) place which I highly recommend visiting.

Address: 655 Main Rd, Berriedale TAS 7011

Richmond is a pretty historic town about 30 minutes from Hobart. This is a popular place to visit for both tourists and locals, and the town features colonial style architecture, Australia’s oldest stone span bridge, churches, museums, cafes and galleries.

Richmond is very easy to explore on foot, and you can find a range of places to buy souvenirs, stop for coffee and do and see some interesting things. If you’re visiting with kids, we recommend adding a visit to the Pooseum to your list, a museum which features a variety of animal poo!

Two attractions we recommend are detailed below.

Richmond Gaol

Tasmania’s gaols are important historical relics when it comes to early colonial history, and Richmond Gaol is one of the oldest and a very interesting place to explore.

The gaol is on the small side and it’s easy to explore in under an hour. You are free to do a self guided tour using the information boards and the map, and there are sound effects to add to your experience.

The buildings of the gaol feature the main gaol building where convicts were housed, a cook’s house, solitary confinement cells, the women’s quarters and the flogging yard. There are several historical artifacts on show, and you can enter the solitary confinement cells for an insight into the experience of being in solitary confinement.

Whilst it’s only a small gaol, as the oldest intact convict gaol in Australia, it’s definitely worth seeing.

Address: 37 Bathurst St, Richmond TAS 7025

Click here to read our full review.

Old Hobart Town Model Village

If you’re interested in what Hobart would have looked like in the 1820’s, a visit to the Old Hobart Town Model Village is a must. This large model village is an interesting place to explore and is like looking through a window back in time.

This clever model village took several years to construct with the builder studying records carefully to offer a true picture of Hobart in the 1820s.

You can walk around looking at the model and read descriptions of buildings and what life was like in Hobart during that time. Street names are given to add context to today and it’s very interesting to see just how much the city has evolved since then.

A lot of thought has been put into the model village and there are some funny, stereotypical human figures to spot making it interesting for kids (and adults) to see what they can find. There’s also a good gift shop here.

Address: 21a Bridge St, Richmond TAS 7025

Day 3: Lake St Clair And Strahan

Driving Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

It’s time to head out of Hobart on this 10 day itinerary Tasmania and explore the central highlands and west coast.

• Have breakfast in Salamanca and then head to Lake St Clair Visitor Centre (takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes)
• Have lunch, take a look at the Visitor Centre and then go for a walk. I suggest taking the Watersmeet Walk and then heading to Platypus Bay if you would like more.
• Continue driving to Strahan (takes about 2 hours)
• Visit the West Coast Visitor Centre and see the West Coast Reflections museum (note it closes at 4pm)
• Have dinner. We recommend Bushman’s Bar and Cafe. It’s best to book ahead as there can be a shortage of places to eat in Strahan.

Where To Stay In Strahan

• BEST – Aloft Boutique Accommodation ( See latest prices here )
• MIDRANGE – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat ( See latest prices here )
• BUDGET – Motel Strahan ( See latest prices here )

Click here for more Strahan accommodation options.

Lake St Clair

The first stop outside of Hobart on your Tasmania suggested itinerary 10 days is at the southern end of Lake St Clair. Not only is this a great place to stretch your legs after a long drive, but it’s a stunning location and perfect for a short walk.

On the premises is a large visitors centre where you can get some information on the walks and see a small museum. There’s also toilet facilities and a restaurant (however when we visited they stopped serving lunch at 1:30pm).

You can start your walk at Cynthia Bay and there are many long walks you can do. However the best walks for this itinerary are the Watersmeet Walk and Platypus Bay. They can be combined if you have the stamina for more and take between 30 minutes to 2 hours return.

The setting really is stunning, and you’ll see the famous waratah along the path. I recommend walking back to the visitor centre by the beach, where you can see the calm lake and spot Pumphouse Point in the distance.

You need a national park pass to visit this park, as well as many other parks. You can purchase one pass for your entire trip at Lake St Clair, or pre-purchase online here .

West Coast Reflections

Located on the waterfront of Strahan is the West Coast Visitor Information Centre, and here is where you’ll find the West Coast Reflections museum.

Set over two floors, this small museum offers information on the history of the area and its people, important historical events (like the Franklin Dam controversy) and the life of convicts, early settlers and indigenous Australians.

For a small museum, there’s a lot of information here and it gives a good background of sites you may soon see (like the Gordon River and Sarah Island). Entry is cheap ($2 for adults, $1 for kids).

The West Coast Visitors Centre also hosts the play ‘The Ship That Never Was’ – a story of how convicts hijacked a ship in Macquarie Harbour. This is an entertaining and popular play to see and runs for about an hour and 15 minutes. It’s worth considering if you’re looking for things to do at night in Strahan.

Day 4: Strahan

On this day of the 10 days in Tasmania itinerary, get ready for some stunning scenery on the Gordon River

• Take a stunning Gordon River cruise and visit Sarah Island
• Stretch your legs with a walk along Ocean Beach or West Strahan Beach

Gordon River Cruise

A Gordon River cruise is a fabulous way to spend a day in Strahan and takes most the day. The two main cruise lines you can book with are World Heritage Cruises and Gordon River Cruises. We cruised with Gordon River Cruises.

The day starts at the cruise terminal on the waterfront (which is close to the West Coast Visitor Centre). This is quite a large building with a lot of souvenirs for purchase. We then boardered the cruise and were taken to our seats ready for the journey.

On board, there is a cafe, an outdoor area at the front of the boat where you can take in the amazing scenery and regular entertaining videos giving some information on the area and history of early colonial life here. Macquarie Harbour is actually the largest natural port in Australia!

The boat switches on its electric motor when on the Gordon River for a quiet cruise experience to truly experience the peace of this area. It really is a beautiful part of the world.

The first stop is Heritage Landing, where you can either walk with a tour guide or alone. The track is very easy and only a short walk. There’s probably enough time to circle it twice.

You’re then served a delicious buffet lunch on board with a focus on Tasmanian produce.

Next you make your way to Sarah Island which was an infamous penal settlement. Most of the structures are in ruins, but you can see where they once stood, and the island is very pretty to explore. Again, you can see it as part of a tour or walk unguided.

The boat has two deck options – Main Deck and Premium Upper Deck. We sat in the Main Deck and opted for a window seat which was very comfortable. Premium Upper Deck also includes morning tea, it’s own viewing deck and also an open bar.

The cruise really is a relaxing and scenic way to spend a day, and if conditions are right, you may be lucky enough to see the famous water reflections caused by the tannin water.

Address: 24 Esplanade, Strahan TAS 7468

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Ocean Beach

Strahan has some lovely beaches and whilst the weather is not always ideal for swimming, it’s still worth taking a walk along one. Ocean Beach is just a 10 minute drive from the town centre and down a dirt road to the car park.

The beach itself is huge and long, and you could spend a long time walking here (or swimming in the warmer months). You can also drive your suitably equipped car or 4WD on it!

There’s a sign when you arrive which states that looking out to the ocean, the next landmass is the southern tip of South America! Thus some days you can expect some strong winds (known as the Roaring 40’s) and some big waves.

West Strahan Beach

West Strahan Beach is just a small beach located in the town centre and an easy place to take a walk or swim. It may even be within walking distance of the place you’re staying.

The beach has a rather secluded feel and it’s interesting to see this pocket of sand as it’s not located on the oceanfront.

The water is just like that of the Gordon River – darkened by the natural tannin and suitable for swimming. There’s also a playground for kids.

Read our full guide to Strahan here.

Day 5: Wilderness Adventures

Driving Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

On this day of your Tasmania road trip 10 days, get ready to see some amazing wilderness.

• Take a trip on the amazing West Coast Wilderness Railway (note this doesn’t always run daily so you may need to switch it with the Gordon River cruise on day 4)
• Drive to your accommodation at Cradle Mountain. This is quite a scenic drive
• Get close to Tasmania’s most famous animal with an after dark feeding tour at Devils@Cradle

Where To Stay At Cradle Mountain

• BEST – Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – Cradle Mountain Highlanders ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain (Dorm Rooms Available) ( Click here for more details )

West Coast Wilderness Railway

Today, you’ll witness the engineering marvel which is the West Coast Wilderness Railway, as well as experience the tranquility and ruggedness of the ancient cold temperate rainforest.

The train departs from both Regatta Point Station at Strahan and Queenstown Station in Queenstown. There are several types of tours you can do taking either a half or full day. If you can, I recommend a full day tour which takes you to Lowana Yard, through the historic rainforest to Teepookana and Lower Landing and other stops on the way to Queenstown. However a half-day tour is a great option too and will take you as far as Dubbil Barril.

There are various activities at each stop, like walks (guided or unguided), honey sampling, panning for gold etc. At Queenstown you can purchase additional activities like river rafting.

There are two carriages to choose from – Heritage and Wilderness. Wilderness is fully catered and includes an open balcony. Heritage is comfortable and allows you to purchase snacks and drinks.

There are cafes at both stations, and the journey is a wonderful way to spend a day appreciating this unique part of the world.

Address: 62 Esplanade, Strahan TAS 7468

Devils@Cradle

After you’ve settled in to your hotel at Cradle Mountain, I recommend an after dark tour at the Devils@Cradle wildlife sanctuary.

These tours run daily between 5:30pm – 8:30pm and take about an hour and 15 minutes. This is the best time to see Tasmanian devils as they are mostly a nocturnal animal.

The main event of the tour is the feeding which is a very interesting (and somewhat violent) thing to see (and hear!) for kids and adults.

You’ll also get to see other animals like the spotted-tailed quoll and the eastern quoll too.

As this is a wildlife sanctuary that helps in the conservation of the threatened Tasmanian devil, your visit also helps in the conservation efforts so it’s something you can feel good about. After dark tours really are the best way to see the Tasmanian devil!

Address: 3950 Cradle Mountain Rd, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306

Day 6: Cradle Mountain

On this day of the 10 day driving itinerary Tasmania, you explore the Cradle Mountain part of Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park.

• Drive to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre after packing a lunch
• From here, take a shuttle bus to Dove Lake
• Explore this region, picking a hike that suits your taste and ability

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is a must see spot when you are in this part of the world, and today you’ll explore this beautiful area.

Your visit will start from the visitors centre where there is a shop, a cafe and where you can get some information on the park and it’s walks. This is also where you get your shuttle bus ticket (note if you already purchased a national park pass, this ticket is free but must be picked up from here).

You then make your way to the shuttle bus stop. Buses are frequent, arriving every 10-15 minutes, although how long they run changes during different seasons.

There are several walks you can do, and the bus makes several stops along the way where you are free to hop off and on, until it reaches Dove Lake. From here I recommend the Dove Lake walk which takes about 2.5 hours return but is very easy, mostly flat and mostly on a boardwalk. Crater Lake is also a good option taking about 2 hours.

If you’re visiting with kids or if a long walk doesn’t interest you, it’s easy to visit Dove Lake to take in the scenery (and some photos) and then catch the shuttle to another part of the park to take an easier walk. A good option is the Enchanted Walk – a very easy 20 minute track – or the Pencil Pine Falls and Rainforest Walk which takes just 10 minutes and runs through a rainforest and past a waterfall.

Of course, this is a spot where you can spend as much or as little time are you please. I recommend having some idea of what you want to do before you visit. You can plan your walk here.

Day 7: Launceston And Tamar Valley

Driving Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

In this part of the road trip Tasmania 10 days adventure, you drive on to Tasmania’s second biggest city, Launceston after exploring some of the Tamar Valley.

• Leave Cradle Mountain early to have a delicious breakfast at Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm in Elizabeth Town (approx driving time about 1 hour 15 minutes)
• Head to Tasmania Zoo to check out Tasmania’s wildlife (approx driving time about 35 minutes)
• Pick a winery for lunch. We recommend Iron Pot Bay Vineyard (approx driving time about 35 minutes)
• Drive to the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre (approx driving time about 15 minutes)
• Head to your accommodation in Launceston

Where To Stay In Launceston

• BEST – Peppers Silo ( See latest prices here )
• MIDRANGE – Best Western Plus Launceston ( See latest prices here )
• BUDGET – Village Family Motor Inn ( See latest prices here )

Read our full guide to Launceston accommodation here.

Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm

Tasmania has some fantastic berry farms and one of the places to sample the finest raspberries is the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm.

This pretty farm includes a good shop, farm animals on site and the main cafe. You can also take a walk by the lake and there are activities to keep kids entertained. The cafe is popular, particularly around lunch time. I recommend calling ahead of time to make a booking.

Raspberries are, of course, seasonal but their dishes are served year round (from frozen and freeze dried raspberries). There are plenty of raspberry dessert dishes on offer here including drinks (like white hot chocolate and raspberry) as well as savoury main meals.

Some of the animals you’ll see on the farm include wallabies and alpacas, and you can also do some free raspberry tastings. It’s a great place to stop for lunch.

Address: 9 Christmas Hills Rd, Elizabeth Town TAS 7304

Click here to read our full guide to Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm.

Tasmania Zoo

Just a 25 minute drive from Launceston is Tasmania Zoo. This is a great place to spend a few hours, and with over 1000 individual animals and 100 species calling the zoo home, there is plenty of variety here.

The zoo is home to native Tasmanian animals, other native Australian animals and rare wildlife species from around the globe. One of the reasons this zoo is popular is because it’s home to the Black Crested Macaque (the only zoo in Australia to host one).

Other animals include the Tasmanian Devil, the Sumatran Tiger, the Red Panda, the Eastern Grey Kangaroo and many more.

The bush setting is a nice place to spend some time, and with a cafe and BBQ areas, you could also opt to have lunch here. There are also feeding machines where kids (and adults) can feed some of the animals, and you can watch other animals being fed at times.

Address: 1166 Ecclestone Rd, Riverside TAS 7250

Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre

The Beaconsfield Mine was made infamous in 2006 when two of its miners became stuck, with a successful rescue effort that took two weeks. Today, the mine is no longer active, and has been given a new life as a heritage centre.

This is an interesting place to visit which gives some good information about mining and the surrounding area of Beaconsfield where gold was first discovered in 1847. It’s particularly interesting given the fact that the site is a defunct mine. There’s also information on the dramatic incident of 2006, and you can explore the outside of the mines.

The centre has a lot of interactive pieces of industrial interest with levers to operate and tunnels for kids to run through, and you can even pan for gold. Kids are also encouraged to search for animals however we as a family were unsuccessful at this.

There’s also a good shop and a few pieces of historical mining significance, and you can spend upwards of an hour exploring the centre.

Address: West St, Beaconsfield TAS 7270

Day 8: Cataract Gorge And Freycinet National Park

Driving Time: 2 hours

The next stop on this 10 day self drive itinerary Tasmania is Freycinet National Park and the stunning Wineglass Bay.

• Have breakfast early before heading to Cataract Gorge in Launceston. Take the chairlift one way and walk around the Gorge over the suspension bridge in the other. Leave by 10:30am
• Drive to Freycinet National Park stopping at Freycinet Marine Farm for a seafood lunch on the way
• Hike to Wineglass Bay

Where To Stay At Coles Bay

Coles Bay is the best place to stay for access to Freycinet National Park

• BEST – Freycinet Lodge ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Swansea Backpacker Lodge ( Click here for more details )

Cataract Gorge

Just outside the centre of Launceston is Cataract Gorge. This stunning site is an excellent way to spend a morning. The gorge is a natural formation with plenty to see and do including a chairlift, swimming pool, suspension bridge, restaurant and plenty of walks.

A ride on the chairlift is the best way to see the gorge. Two people can sit in a single chair. It’s not overly high but there is only a band around your middle so I’d recommend adults sit with younger kids.

The suspension bridge is also fun to walk over, with a very clear wobble as you walk. The path has information on the plants and their use to the ancient indigenous population.

Another interesting thing to try is The Inclinator – you can use this to get from the entrance to the base of the basin and back again. It’s self operated and fun to ride with kids.

Entrance is free but you do need to purchase a ticket to ride the chairlift. It’s a fabulous place to spend the morning.

Address: 69 Basin Road, Launceston, TAS 7250

Freycinet Marine Farm

If excellent seafood interests you then a stop at Freycinet Marine Farm is a must. Tasmania is well known for its top quality seafood, and as this is a marine farm, it has some of the freshest seafood you’ll find.

The site is actually a collection of small buildings with places to sit down for a meal, and we recommend having lunch here. There is ample seating and I think you’d be unlucky not to find a spot to sit. They also offer take away.

The menu itself is small but it makes up for its size in flavour – everything we tried was delicious, particularly the mussels and oysters (probably because they are farmed here!). There are several other seafood options, chips and drinks.

They also run tours on their farm where you can catch and shuck oysters yourself if this interests you. We would have done this if we hadn’t visited with kids. Still, we loved visiting here and whilst it isn’t cheap, it’s worth it.

Wineglass Bay

Wineglass Bay is a stunning location and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tasmania. A visit here is a must.

Wineglass Bay sits inside Freycinet National Park and the beach is rated among the top 10 beaches in the world, and you’ll see why by viewing the beauty of this area from above.

There are several different walks you can do here. However by far the most popular is the gentle uphill track to the lookout where you can take in the scenery of the bay. This track is well surfaced with places to stop along the way and plenty of things to see.

We saw people of all ages hiking the track, and it takes most people between 30 minutes to one hour one way, depending on how many stops you take and your fitness level.

The view from the lookout is well worth the walk and is simply stunning. There are plenty of spots to take photos. However, it can be quite crowded during busy periods.

If you have more time and if hiking interests you, you can do the full Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit where you can hike down to the beach and return to the car park from the opposite direction. However this can take upwards of 5 hours so it’s certainly not suitable for everyone, but hiking down to the beach is the only way to touch the sand.

Whatever you decide, simply seeing this spot with your own eyes after hiking the trail to the lookout is a rewarding experience in itself.

Address: Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay TAS 7215

Day 9: Port Arthur

Driving Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

The next stop on this suggested 10 day itinerary Tasmania is Port Arthur, the perfect place to learn about Tasmania’s convict past.

• Drive to Port Arthur Historic Site after breakfast and explore the site. Make sure you take the included walking and boat tours
• In the evening, return to the site for the spooky ghost tour

Where To Stay At Port Arthur

• BEST – Port Arthur Villas ( Click here for more details )
• MIDRANGE – NRMA Port Arthur ( Click here for more details )
• BUDGET – Fox and Hounds Inn ( Click here for more details )

Want more options? Find our full Port Arthur accommodation guide here .

Port Arthur Historic Site

Understanding modern day Tasmania starts with understanding its past, and one of the best kept historical sites in the state is the UNESCO listed Port Arthur Historic Site.

Once a convict gaol where over 12,000 prisoners were sent, the prison is now an expansive and interesting site to explore, and one of the top tourist attractions in the state.

Many buildings still stand, while others are in ruins, and you are free to explore the gaol, houses, gardens and surrounding area by yourself. We loved exploring the old houses and the relics from the past contained inside them.

Your entry fee to the site includes a guided 40 minute walking tour which I highly recommend taking to get more connection to the area. When you book and pay for your ticket (which can be done online), you select a time for your walking tour. I recommend booking ahead to get your preferred time.

Your entry price also includes a harbour boat cruise while sails past Isle of the Dead which was a burial island for convicts. Again, you select your time when purchasing your ticket – another reason to book ahead.

You can also opt to have lunch here as the visitor centre has a good cafe and restaurant. There is also a gift shop.

There are also additional tours you can purchase like a tour of the Isle of the Dead, and an after dark ghost tours which can be very popular.

Of course, a site like this has its share of ghost stories, and the after dark tour is a 90 minute entertaining tour of the site complete with ghost stories and descriptions of events.

Regardless of what you choose to do, Port Arthur is a fascinating place to visit.

Address: Historic Site, Visitor Centre, Port Arthur TAS 7182

Read our full guide to Port Arthur here.

Day 10: Back To Hobart

Driving Time: 1 hours 45 minutes

It’s time for the final day of this Tasmania self drive 10 day itinerary 🙁 Drive back to Hobart ready to fly out. If you started this itinerary in Launceston or Devonport, head back to day one of this itinerary to keep going.

• Drive from Port Arthur to Doo Town – a town of interesting house names (approx driving time 30 minutes)
• See the Blow Hole and Tessellated Pavement in Eaglehawk Neck
• Return to Hobart and then explore Richmond if it’s still on your list (see day one)

What can you expect from a place named Doo Town? A lot of funny house names!

Not far from Port Arthur, as you enter the stunning area of Eaglehawk Neck, is the little town of Doo Town. This is a place that embraces its name by naming the houses in a similar fashion, all using the word “doo”.

People have been quite creative and it’s an entertaining drive through the town to see what you can find. For some reason, with every name it becomes funnier. There seems to be an endless amount of ways the word doo can be used, so doo drop in and see what you can find 🙂

Address: 301 C338, Eaglehawk Neck, TAS 7179

Read our full guide to Doo Town here.

Blow Hole and Tessellated Pavement

Adding to Tasmania’s profile of exceptional natural beauty is Eaglehawk Neck. Among the interesting geological sites to see here are both the Blow Hole and the Tessellated Pavement.

The Blow Hole is the remnants of a cave eroded by water where water from the sea washes through to create a blowhole effect. It can be reached by a short walk up a path from the car park nearby. The blowhole effect can only be seen during high tide. However, it’s still a scenic spot to visit at any time.

Just a 10 minute drive down the road and you’ll reach the Tessellated Pavement, a stunning site which almost looks man-made. This extremely rare natural tiled rock is the outcome of erosion and salt crystals from the sea, and it’s incredible to see and contemplate the wonders of nature.

This is a popular photo spot and you can get right up close, but to do so, I highly recommend wearing clothes and shoes suitable for wet conditions.

Address: Eaglehawk Neck, TAS 7179

9 Days Tasmania Itinerary

If you are looking for a Tasmania itinerary 9 days, I recommend choosing between either the Gordon River cruise or the West Coast Wilderness Railway on day 4. Then on day 5, head straight to Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre in the morning and explore around Dove Lake. You can then drop day 6 from the itinerary to make it a 9 day itinerary of Tasmania.

Final Words About Your Self Drive Tasmania 10 days Itinerary

There’s no doubt that Tasmania is a fabulous destination to visit. With stunning natural beauty, excellent food and wine and interesting towns to explore, there’s no shortage of things to do in this small state.

By following our 10 day itinerary, you’ll make the most of your limited time here. Whilst some days may seem full on, we know you’ll leave feeling like you’ve had an excellent overview of the state.

Chances are, you’ll also leave with a taste for more. You can always return to our site to read about all the other interesting things to see and do in Tasmania!

We hope you enjoyed this Tasmania 10 day driving itinerary, perfect for your Tasmanian trip. You can find more information to plan your perfect trip to Tasmania  here  or find our 4-5 day itinerary here , 7 day itinerary here and 14 day itinerary here . For more planning guides,  click here . You can also buy our full Tasmanian Road Trip Planner here.

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By Shan Hutchinson

Shan grew up in Tasmania, moved away and then came back with her family twenty years later. She loves re-discovering her home state and sharing it with you here.

The Ultimate guide to Self-Drive Tours in Tasmania: Tips, and Must-See Destinations

13 Mar The Ultimate guide to Self-Drive Tours in Tasmania: Tips, and Must-See Destinations

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable Australian adventure, Tasmania should be at the top of your list. This stunning island state offers a unique blend of rugged natural beauty, rich cultural history, and exciting outdoor activities, making it an ideal self-drive tour destination. In this ultimate guide, we’ll share our top tips, and must-see destinations to help you plan the perfect self-drive tour in Tasmania . 

Why Choose a Self-Drive Tour?

Self-drive tours are becoming increasingly popular as they offer greater flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Tasmania is a perfect destination for self-drive tours, with well-maintained roads, well-marked routes, and an excellent network of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions.

The Benefits of a Self-Drive Tour in Tasmania

Flexibility: You can set your own schedule and explore at your own pace.

Cost-Effective: Self-drive tours are generally more affordable than guided tours.

Scenic Drives: Tasmania is home to some of the world’s most scenic drives, and a self-drive tour is the best way to experience them.

Access to Remote Locations: A self-drive tour allows you to access remote locations that may not be easily accessible by public transportation.

Unique Experiences: With a self-drive tour, you can explore Tasmania’s hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that guided tours may not cover.

Getting Ready for Your Self-Drive Tour

Before you hit the road, there are a few things you need to do to prepare for your self-drive tour in Tasmania . Here are our top tips:

Plan your itinerary: Tasmania is a relatively small state, but it’s packed with amazing sights and experiences. To make the most of your time, plan your itinerary in advance, so you know where you’re going and what you want to see.

Book Accommodation in Advance

Accommodation can be scarce in Tasmania, especially during peak season, so it’s best to book in advance. There are plenty of options, from camping grounds to luxury lodges, so you’ll be able to find something that suits your needs and budget.

Timing: The best time to visit Tasmania is between December and February when the weather is warm and the days are long.

Car rental: There are plenty of car rental options available in Tasmania, but it’s important to choose a reliable and trustworthy company.

Check the Weather

Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to check the forecast before you hit the road. Pack for all seasons, as it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day.

Rent a car: To explore Tasmania on your own, you’ll need to rent a car. There are plenty of car rental companies in Tasmania, and we recommend booking in advance to get the best price.

Food and Drink in Tasmania

Tasmania is a food and wine lover’s paradise, with an abundance of fresh, locally sourced produce and world-class wineries. Some of the must-try foods in Tasmania include:

Seafood: With its abundant coastline, Tasmania is famous for its fresh seafood, including oysters, abalone, and salmon.

Cheese: Tasmania produces some of the best artisanal cheese in Australia, including the famous Bruny Island Cheese Company.

Wine: Tasmania is known for its cool-climate wines, including pinot noir, chardonnay, and sparkling wine.

Whisky: Tasmania has a growing whisky industry, with several award-winning distilleries producing high-quality single malts.

Driving Tips for Tasmania

Driving in Tasmania can be a bit different from driving in other parts of Australia, so here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Drive on the left: Tasmania uses the left side of the road, just as the rest of Australia. It could take some getting used to if you’re not used to this, but it’s crucial to be aware of this before you get on the road.

Watch your speed: Tasmania has strict speed limits, and speeding fines can be steep. Be sure to obey the speed limit signs, especially in residential areas.

Be prepared for narrow roads: Many of Tasmania’s roads are narrow and winding, so it’s important to take your time and drive carefully. If you’re not used to driving on winding roads, consider taking a guided tour or sticking to the main highways.

Overall, a self-drive tour in Tasmania is an incredible way to experience this unique and beautiful destination. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious food and drink, Tasmania is a must-visit destination for any traveller to Australia. And with Tasmania Coachlines , you can explore this amazing destination with ease and comfort.

Tips and Tricks for Self-Drive Tours in Tasmania

Check your car rental: Make sure to check your car rental thoroughly before setting off on your self-drive tour. This includes checking the condition of the vehicle, ensuring that it has a full tank of petrol, and that all of the necessary documents are in order.

Pack appropriately: Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack appropriate clothing for all types of weather. This includes warm jackets, raincoats, and sturdy hiking boots.

Stay safe: Tasmania’s wilderness areas can be dangerous, so make sure to take appropriate safety precautions. This includes staying on marked trails, carrying plenty of water, and letting someone know where you are going.

Safety Tips

Safety should always be a top priority when driving in Tasmania. The roads can be narrow and winding, and wildlife can be a hazard. Consider the following safety tips for a safe journey:

• Always wear your seatbelt
• Observe the speed limit
• Be cautious when driving at dawn and dusk, as this is when wildlife is most active
• Avoid driving at night if possible
• Keep an eye out for warning signs, especially those indicating the presence of wildlife
• Stay alert and focused while driving

Take your time: Tasmania is a destination that is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Take your time to explore each destination fully, and don’t rush through your self-drive tour. This will allow you to fully appreciate the stunning natural beauty of Tasmania and make the most of your experience.

Must-See Destinations in Tasmania

Tasmania is a land of stunning natural beauty, with an abundance of national parks, beaches, and wilderness areas. Here are some of the must-see destinations to include on your self-drive tour:

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park: This World Heritage-listed national park is one of Tasmania’s most iconic destinations, with its rugged alpine terrain, glacial lakes, and ancient forests. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, camping, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives.

Freycinet National Park: Located on Tasmania’s east coast, Freycinet National Park is home to some of the state’s most stunning coastal scenery, including the iconic Wineglass Bay. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, beachcombing, and wildlife watching in this pristine wilderness area.

Port Arthur Historic Site: For a glimpse into Tasmania’s rich history, head to the Port Arthur Historic Site, a former convict settlement and World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the ruins of the penitentiary, take a guided tour, or participate in one of the many events and activities held throughout the year.

Bay of Fires: This breath-taking stretch of coastline on Tasmania’s northeast coast is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and orange-hued rocks. Visitors can swim, surf, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun on one of the secluded beaches.

Outdoor Activities in Tasmania

One of the biggest draws of Tasmania is its incredible natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy during your self-drive tour. The best choices are listed below:

Hiking: Tasmania has an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to multi-day treks. Some of the most popular trails include the Overland Track, the Three Capes Track, and the Wineglass Bay Circuit.

Wildlife watching: Tasmania is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including Tasmanian devils, wombats, and echidnas. You can spot these animals in their natural habitat by taking a wildlife tour or visiting one of the island’s national parks.

Beaches: Tasmania has some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia, with crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand. Some of the top beaches to visit include Wineglass Bay, Bay of Fires, and Binalong Bay.

Cycling: Tasmania has a growing cycling culture, with many dedicated bike trails and scenic routes to explore. You can bring your own bike or rent one from a local provider.

Water sports: With its coastal location, Tasmania is perfect for water-based activities such as surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. There are plenty of rental providers and tour operators to choose from.

Tips for Packing for Tasmania

When packing for your self-drive tour in Tasmania , it’s important to keep the following tips in mind:

Dress in layers: Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers that can easily be added or removed depending on the temperature.

Bring sturdy shoes: Many of Tasmania’s attractions require walking or hiking, so it’s important to bring comfortable shoes with good support.

Pack for different activities: Tasmania offers a wide range of activities, from hiking to beach-going to fine dining, so be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear for each activity.

Bring sunscreen and insect repellent: Tasmania has a high UV index, so it’s important to protect your skin with sunscreen. Insect repellent is also important, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.

Don’t forget your camera: Tasmania is a photographer’s paradise, so be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

By following these tips and taking advantage of the many activities and attractions Tasmania has to offer, you’re sure to have an unforgettable self-drive tour. And with Tasmania Coachlines, you can explore this amazing destination with ease and comfort.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable Australian adventure, a self-drive tour in Tasmania is the perfect choice. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and exciting outdoor activities, Tasmania has something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a guided tour, we recommend Tasmania Coachlines as the perfect choice for exploring this amazing destination. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your self-drive tour of Tasmania today!

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No matter the time of year, there's always something exciting to see or do while you're visiting Tasmania. For a full list of events, please click below.

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Events In Tasmania

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Direct flight melbourne to tasmania.

To Hobart - 1 Hour 15 Mins   //   To Launceston - 1 Hour 5 Mins

Direct Flight Sydney to Tasmania

To Hobart - 1 Hour 55 Mins   //   To Launceston - 1 Hour 45 Mins

Direct Flight Brisbane to Tasmania

To Hobart - 2 Hours 50 Mins   //   To Launceston - 2 Hours 35 Mins

Direct Flight Adelaide to Tasmania

To Hobart - 1 Hour 50 Mins

Direct Flight Perth to Tasmania

To Hobart - 4 Hour 30 Mins

By Sea - Spirit of Tasmania Geelong to Devonport   //   9 - 10.5 Hours

See what people are saying about tasmanian vacations....

The holiday to Tasmania has been and gone, and my wife and I just want you to know that we thoroughly enjoyed our time there. The package that you put together worked a treat and everything worked like clockwork. Thank you for your meticulous work in booking everything for us.

Hi Ben, Just wanted to send you a quick note to let you know that our trip was absolutely fantastic! We got back to Brisbane late Friday and can’t stop talking about it and looking at the over 1,200 photos I took! Thanks again for organising everything. It was wonderful!

Hi Zuleika, we just wanted to send our thanks to you now that we have returned from our trip to Tasmania. We thoroughly enjoyed our couple of weeks. The scenery was fantastic, the experiences you booked for us were really enjoyable and we didn’t experience any problems. Again, thank you so much for organising our trip.

Hi Talise, I just want to thank-you and the Tasmanian Vacations team for organising our Tassie holiday earlier this month. It went off without a hitch. The hotels and B&B were great. So was the cruise and railway journey. And the rental car. At every place, the staff were thoroughly professional and friendly, like nearly every local we met. We'll be back.

Hi Talise, We just wanted to thank you for organising the accommodation and dinners for our trip last weekend. It was a fantastic 5 days and everything went smoothly!

Hi Caitlyn, Just a note to say how happy we were on our all too brief visit. The heritage accomodation was lovely, the staff were helpful and answered our every need. Congratulations on a great job, two octogenarians who thought they had seen all, greatly impressed.

A big thank you for arranging our Tasmanian holiday. Everything went very smoothly so we had a very relaxing, enjoyable holiday. The accommodations were superb and we did so enjoy the local food and wines. Each region had highlights of their own but have to say our last two nights in Hobart at the Henry Jones were the icing on the cake for the whole trip. Thanks again for your organisation, we would recommend Tasmania as a destination and definitely recommend you to do the organising.

Talise, just wanted to let you know we had a wonderful time in Tasmania. It was a truly brilliant holiday for us both. Everything you arranged went smoothly and we were happy with all the locations and accommodation you selected and recommended. We particularly loved the day trip to Josef Chromy in Launceston and the day cruise on the Gordon River. Our accommodation in Hobart was perfect as it was so close to the markets and Mona ferry. We will be sure to recommend your services to friends and family. Thank you so much for everything.

Dear Talise, thank you very much for helping us organise our Tasmanian vacation. We had an amazing time. Our highlights would have to include the national parks Apsley Gorge, Wineglass Bay, Montezuma Falls and the Wombats at Cradle Mountain. Attractions wise we loved the Bicheno Penguin Tour, Seahorse World, Platypus House (the echidna experience was brilliant), Cataract Gorge Chairlift, and Devils@Cradle (we viewed a night time feeding). We had a fabulous holiday and appreciate your help with organising our itinerary.

Thank you very much for your time for putting together our trip to Tasmania. You have done a marvellous job and we enjoyed our accommodation that you organised for us. We had a great time in Tasmania, with great weather. Once again THANK YOU.

Brenda and myself would like to thank Tasmanian Vacations for the great way the organised our recent trip to Tasmania. Every aspect went extremely well making our holiday not good but GREAT.

Caitlyn, we are now back home again following a wonderful trip to Flinders Island. We were more than impressed with Island Quarters and the way that Roweena looked after us. The unit itself is really nice and the location of course was perfect, being only a few metres away from everything in Whitemark and being so close to the beach. We look forward to using Tas Vacations again.

Talise, thank you for organising a wonderful trip (only one day of rain!). The accommodation was great - our favourite being Gardenia House. Our favourite place was Stanley and the Bruny Island trip was a treat. We will be back to do more on the East Coast.

Kim, we really wanted to let you know how impressed we were with all of the accommodation and tours that you booked for us. The standard was great – stand outs for us were the Corinna Wilderness Experience and the Oyster Catcher Villa at Bruny Island. There were no problems anywhere with our bookings and we were very impressed with the friendliness of staff. We wanted to thank you for organising the trip for us.

Caitlyn, I write to express our appreciation for your arranging the 'ground' bookings for our tour of the State. Your expertise in interpreting our needs led to a great experience for us. We enjoyed all the accommodation and tours on the itinerary. Everything worked well in terms of location, time and distance.

Caitlyn was fantastic in arranging our Tasmanian holiday. Nothing was too much trouble for her to arrange and even the changes we asked her to make. We had no issues on our Tasmanian holiday. A beautiful and friendly place to visit and I certainly hope to go back one day to see what I couldn't fit in this time.

I was impressed with how Talise had looked after my alterations to original plans and the speed that she was able to resolve the alterations. Thank you Talise. My wife & I thoroughly enjoyed our holiday.

I just wanted to reach out and thank Zuleika very much for the most wonderful holiday. We had such a great time travelling around Tassie and we are in awe of how beautiful the scenery is as well as the food and people. We will certainly be back as 10 days was not even close enough to feeling satisfied. I will be in touch later this year for stage 2 adventures. Thanks again for everything.

It was absolutely fantastic!!. Everything from the car pickup and drop off, to all the different accommodations. It went seamlessly and we both had the best time. The choices you made for us were amazing and we loved every minute of our time in Tasmania thanks to your work and expertise.

Karen and her team were excellent. They know Tasmania and were quick to make helpful suggestions. We would have no hesitation using Tasmanian Vacations again or recommending them to friends.

Jess our consultant was amazing pulling our holiday together so quickly. It was a fabulous trip!

Booking through Tasmanian Vacations helped make our trip to Tasmania a very special one - from the ease of car hire, national park pass & brilliant accommodation - everything was terrific. This allowed us to have a very enjoyable holiday that, had we tried to book this ourselves, may not have been possible. Thank you, Tasmanian Vacations for your efforts!

The accommodation provided was wonderful, and we enjoyed the whole experience. Have recommended your company to family and friends.

Zuleika was fantastic and helped me through the planning process. So simple and easy.

Hi Sophie, we wanted to thank you for organising our wonderful Tasmanian holiday! We just got back last week and are still buzzing from how fantastic it was. All the places you chose for us were varied and interesting with superb accommodation. We wanted to let you know what a great job you did. We will recommend you to all our friends.

It was absolutely fantastic!

We thoroughly enjoyed our holiday, experiencing so much beauty in this part of Australia.

From our initial enquiry we were blown away by the help provided by Ben and Jess. They certainly made our trip run smoothly and did all the thinking for us. We had a fabulous 9 days and are recommending Tasmanian Vacations to all our friends. You could not do it better yourself.

Just wanted to say we have returned from our stay down at Tassie and it was amazing. Thank you for putting all that together. It was so easy and stress free.

Had a fantastic holiday in Tasmania. Everything went smoothly starting from booking, then car hire and accomodation. The Coal River Farm voucher set us up with delicious treats and a wonderful lunch to begin our Tassie adventure

Many thanks to Ben for his help. It was a last-minute trip and Ben was very patient and helpful.

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Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, 5-day tasmania itinerary: road trip from hobart.

I have heard a lot about Tasmania – about the unique and beautiful nature down there, and how they have the cleanest air in the world because they are so far removed from everything else.

I’ve seen the rugged beauty of Tasmania in Lion , a true story made into an Oscar-nominated drama movie featuring Nicole Kidman and Dev Patel. Needless to say, I was very excited about this trip. It also helped that my Australian friends would gush about how food in Tasmania just tasted better and that their local produce is considered superior even among Australians.

In this post, you can find the details of planning a road trip in Tasmania and the East Coast itinerary I ended up with.

My 5 Days in Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

In my past Australia posts , I’ve talked about how surprised I was at the sheer size of the country-continent. Well, Tasmania is no exception – even though on the map it looks like a small portion of Australia, it’s still quite huge. If you want to hit everything Tasmania has to offer then I reckon you’ll need a good 10-14 days.

Now here comes the problem – I only have 5 days in Tasmania. So I knew I had to make some sacrifices. I narrowed down what my must-dos are: I want to see at least one national park, I want to eat Tasmanian oysters, and I want to still see some sights around Hobart. Keeping these in mind, I had to settle for the shorter option, which meant driving only halfway up the east coast to Freycinet National Park before driving back down again.

🗺 Save this map to your phone!  If you are a Google user, click on the image of the map above. The map will then be saved to your “Recent” maps viewed.  Click here for instructions on how to view the map later . It will work from your phone too.

The final itinerary I went with was this:

• Day 1: Explore Hobart (Fly in the morning)
• Day 2: Drive up to Bicheno (3 hours)
• Day 3: Explore  Freycinet National Park
• Day 4: Drive down to Port Arthur and Tasman Island (3 hours)
• Day 5: Bruny Island Foodie Day trip

If you have more time – You can always opt to drive further up towards Binalong Bay and the Bay of Fires, before ending up at Launceston, the second biggest city in Tasmania.

Cash Management in Australia

In Australia, you can use your credit card pretty much everywhere. I didn’t use cash for most of my trips there. However, if you prefer to transact in cash, then exchange your money before the trip. Do NOT exchange your money in Australia, especially at the Airport. They generally don’t give you a good exchange rate and sometimes apply a fee for the transaction – check out this article for horror stories .

My friend tried to exchange AUD for SGD at Sydney Airport and was given a rate of $1.43 when the going rate was $1.04. His A$163 became S$115 when it should have been S$155. I know as a general rule you are not supposed to change currency in airports, but to his defense, we’ve changed currencies in other airports and were not ripped off as badly as in Australia.

General Tips for Driving in Australia

• Rent a car and arrange to pick it up straight from the airport you’re flying into. Saves you tons of time!
• Have an International Driver’s License with at least a month’s validity.
• Keep to the speed limit! I have been told the Australian police is very strict on speeding.
• Fill up the tank before returning your car, or it’s going to cost you.
• Most businesses (except restaurants) are closed by 4-5 pm. Yes, even grocery stores, so plan ahead if you need to replenish resources.
• Bring an Adapter for USB Charging in the car. Something like this is perfect. You’ll be driving a lot, so you’ll want to use your phone for music, GPS and research and that stuff will eat into your battery.
• Bring a power bank. My favorite power bank is the Xiaomi 10,000 mAh. This stuff is super powerful. It can charge my iPhone 7+ more than twice.

My Itinerary of 5 Days in Tasmania

As you can imagine, there are lots to do in Tasmania so I’ve broken up the posts to guide you through the special highlights of the trip:

Day 1: Hobart & Surrounding Area

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania, and likely the starting point if you are an international traveler like us. In this Hobart City Guide post , you’ll find the low-down of this quaint city – what to eat, where to stay, and day trips you can take from Hobart.

Day 2-3: Bicheno and Freycinet National Park

When driving through the east coast of Tasmania, it’s pretty much a no-brainer that you have to stop by Freycinet National Park . This post will guide you through the planning of visiting the park: how to get there, where to stay, and what to do.

Day 4: Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur

The Tasman Peninsula is only a short 1-hour drive from Hobart and houses some of the most beautiful terrains Tasmania has to offer.

Hint: It’s one of the locations for the movie  Lions , which if you haven’t seen – you should. It’s both shot beautifully and the story is very unique.

While you are there, I recommend stopping by Port Arthur , a historic village that served as a convict settlement built in the mid-18th century!

Here are some tours to Port Arthur / Tasman Peninsula from Hobart you can consider:

• Port Arthur Day Tour from Hobart – In addition to the village, you’ll also get to see some of Tasman Peninsula’s popular sites, such as Devil’s Kitchen, Tasman Arch, and the Blowhole.
• Tasman Island Cruises  by Penicott Wilderness Journeys  – If you are the adventurous type, I highly recommend checking out this cruise. This is done by the same company I went to  Bruny Island  with. We got to see dolphins and other wildlife in this cruise!

Find more info about this in my Hobart Guide !

Day 5: Bruny Island

Bruny Island is a holiday island 45 minutes south of Hobart. The island is formed by two large land masses, separated only by a narrow stretch of sand called “The Neck”. More importantly, for me, the island is famous for its gourmet local produce!

You can read about my day of eating and drinking on Bruny Island here .

Getting a Car Rental/Hire

Here is a tip for road trip newbies like myself: You can arrange to rent/hire a car and pick it up straight from the airport you’re flying into. All car rental companies would have their own drop-off zone at the airport parking lot. This saves you time and money since you don’t have to worry about your airport transport anymore!

I booked a car hire through Cheaptickets , which connects you to local car rental companies. I recommend doing this a few weeks before your actual trip!

Tip: You can also book excess insurance with your booking, which covers you in case you get in an accident. If you get this insurance through Cheaptickets, it’s only $9.90 a day. However, if you buy the insurance at booking point, it would cost you $30-40 a day so I recommend to buy the insurance online.

Not a fan of booking ahead? You could just get a car when you get to the airport since all the car rental companies have an office in the airport. However, if you do it this way you might risk not having a car available for hire on the day of your arrival. Just an example, when I was in Hobart it so happened that a huge cruise ship was docking in the city for a few days. A bunch of its 3000-something passengers was looking to hire cars and explore the region and I heard most car rentals were fully booked until Monday when I arrived Saturday morning.

Booking Accommodations in Tasmania

I also booked all my accommodations through Cheaptickets . Cheaptickets’ hotel booking engine is powered by booking.com, so you can be assured you get the best deal and good cancellation policy – though I would still pay attention to each booking since the cancellation policy differs hotel to hotel.

I find the accommodations in Tasmania to be on the more expensive side, especially as you get into the smaller cities. The accommodations I booked ranges from AU$150-200 (US$115-155) per night. Here are the hotels I booked for my itinerary above:

• Shipwright Arms (Hobart) – This is a really small no-frills hotel & pub located in the historic Battery Point neighborhood of Hobart. Their rooms are very simple and there is no dedicated receptionist at the desk (the person checking us in was also tending to the bar, but this hotel was the cheapest I could find in Hobart that isn’t a hostel or with a shared bathroom.
• Bicheno by the Bay (Bicheno) – A beautiful lodge just minutes’ walk away from the beach and city center of Bicheno (which is a very small town). I loved this hotel as they have the best shower out of all the accommodations I had on this trip! The hot water heats up in seconds, has good water pressure and they have a heating lamp in the bathroom – something I truly missed on cold nights when I was stepping out of the shower.
• Rydges Hobart  (Hobart) – The hotel is a renovated heritage building, located conveniently close to the center of Hobart. I’m not sure if they upgraded us, but our Manor Twin room was huge! It has its own living room and a huge bathroom. It’s definitely the most spacious and modern out of all three accommodations.

Example of Cost of the trip

Since I was tracking my spending throughout the entire trip, I am sharing them here with you so you can get an idea of how much you’ll be spending in USD.

Hotel and transport were non-negotiable – I think no matter what you do, you’ll end up spending around that much per day/night. Perhaps you could spend a bit less on the hotel if you are going the backpacking route – shared bathrooms / rooms and all.

For Meals , it varied greatly since on some days we skipped lunch, and on some days we had expensive dinners. I think $45/person/day is a more accurate estimate if you eat a modest breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can also save some money on meals if you choose to cook yourself or eat at a fast food restaurant.

Activities are also negotiable. The price above included a cruise and a full-day food tour which consist of about 70% of the amount above. The rest are the museum entrance, park entrance, etc.

What to expect from driving in Tasmania

Here are a few small things I noted during our road trip:

• Lots of roadkill along the Tasmanian roads! I’m not sure why since I didn’t see this when we drove in Queensland, but in Tasmania, you can expect to see road kills of varying sizes (from squirrels to wallabies) every time you drive out from the city.
• All businesses tend to close early, so try to check in to your hotel before 5 pm or be sure to notify the hotel if you are arriving at an off-house so that they can arrange an alternative check-in method and you won’t be left stranded!
• Yes, even grocery stores will close early so plan ahead if you need to replenish resources. I find this to be very true, especially in Tasmania.
• Weather changes fast, so bring various layers. Super strong sun – bring adequate sunscreen and layer up with extra clothing to shield yourself, even when you are driving in the car.
• 3G and 4G were widely available in the areas I went to, but I still downloaded offline maps on my Google Maps app just in case we go off the grid. I experienced low connectivity only at Freycinet National Park .

General Tips on Traveling in Australia

• A credit card works everywhere in Australia – even in small towns. We brought $200 Aussie Dollars with us and only ended up spending about $50 of it.
• Have an International Driver’s License that has at least a month of validity left.
• With rental cars, you should fill up the tank before returning your car, or it’s going to cost you extra.
• Bring an Adapter for USB Charging in the car in case your car doesn’t have a USB charging point, so you can still charge your  Something  like this  is perfect.
• Bring a power bank. My favorite power bank is  the Xiaomi 10,000 mAh . This stuff is super powerful. It can charge my iPhone 7+ more than twice.

And that’s all folks! I hope that was helpful to you.

• April 19, 2021

Tasmania has a lot to offer for travel enthusiasts and will surely not disappoint! There’s always food for the eyes (sceneries) and the tummy. Love this itinerary, so handy!

• July 20, 2020

Some good points about considerations for overseas travellers. Tasmania is a fabulous place to visit and the National Parks there are world class. Our favourite spots included Freycinet National Park and a summer beach stay in Bicheno.

• June 9, 2019

Hello Melissa, for the Bruny Island tour, did you do any hotel pick up or you drove somewhere to park your car before the shuttle bus picked you up? Where would you recommend parking the rented car? Thank you 🙂

Hey Joel, we walked to the pick up point since it was close to our hotel. There are plenty of parking around but you’ll have to pay since it’s in the central area.

• April 16, 2019

awesome post thanks for sharing

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Perfect 5 Day Tasmania Itinerary From Launceston To Hobart

Have you not been to Tassie yet, and looking for a 5 day Tasmania itinerary from Launceston? With epic landscapes and home to Australia’s number 1 hike, you could spend weeks exploring the best things to do in Tasmania. We went back in 2014, just before Londoner In Sydney was born, and alas… we are itching to get back!

Luckily, our new expat writer, Hannah Norman from UK is sharing her first time experience in Tasmania. Originally from Stafford, she swapped UK for the beaches of Coogee in Sydney. Having moved to Australia just before the pandemic started, she is trying to explore as much of this wonderful country as possible. Make sure you follow her adventures on Instagram at @hannie_norm .

Here’s her awesome Tasmania itinerary for you to make notes and form your own trip. Although she flew to Launceston, it is only a 2h30m drive to Hobart. You can easily switch this itinerary around if you’re flying to Hobart instead. In this Tasmania road trip itinerary, she ticks off the most popular places to visit in Tasmania.

Table of Contents

Best Time To Visit Tasmania

I had been told that the best time to visit Tasmania is during Australian Winter, but instead we visited during Christmas time instead. Tasmania is noticeably cooler than Sydney and was between 10 -15 degrees most days, so much sure you bring some winter clothing with you.

With it being a La Nina year it rained every evening, but any showers in the day cleared quickly. I would suggest bringing plenty of layers and waterproof clothing (particularly if visiting Cradle Mountain and Mount Wellington) as well as all the usual warm weather essentials as the weather is very changeable in the National Park.

How To Get To Tasmania From Sydney

When flying from Sydney to Tasmania the flight is about 2 hours. Upon arrival into Launceston airport, it is easy to pick up a car as the airport is small. We had pre booked a car from RentalCars.com which was $350 for five days. I would strongly recommend hiring a car as it is the most cost effective and efficient way to get around and reach the best places in Tasmania. From what we saw, public transport outside of the big cities is extremely limited.

Need To Hire A Car?

Don’t miss out on this hidden gem.

If you don’t have a car, don’t worry you can still visit this hidden gem! Check our go to car hire company in Australia to get to discover this place.

Bring Cold Weather Clothing

Before you plan your trip to Tasmania, obviously make sure you bring cold weather clothing year round. Bear in mind that cafes and restaurants typically open later and close earlier than those in Sydney, so it is worth being aware of that when planning your Tasmania road trip. Early morning coffee walks might not always be possible. Just to note I was visiting during a time of low tourist demand due to Covid, which may have altered opening hours.

Day 1: Explore Launceston & Waterfalls

Day 1 morning: launceston, city park and bridestowe lavender fields.

When you arrive in Launceston, your first thought is likely to be that it is a small and cosy town. I would highly recommend Sweetbrew for some very tasty and equally affordable veggie brunch options to kick off the trip and your Tasmania itinerary. Wandering through the town there are all the usual high street shops as well as some unique boutique shops. We stumbled across the Harvest Market which is held every Saturday and sells a selection of local produce along with hosting a wide range of food stall. It’s definitely worth checking out if you have time.

I would also suggest stopping by City Park where you can see some 20+ Japanese macques monkeys. It is a free monkey enclosure and great for kids although adults were enjoying it too! The Macques were a gift from Lauceston’s sister city Ikeda City in Japan.

By mid morning continue your Tasmania itinerary by heading over to the Bridestowe Lavender Fields. If it is a clear sunny day wander through the purple fields of lavender and soak up the scent. The specially made lavender flavoured ice cream is very much worth it and probably the most purple looking ice cream you will ever try! We spent a couple of hours there and you can choose to do some guided tours if you want to learn more about the lavender.

Day 1 Lunch: Evandale and Liffey Falls

Drive back through Evandale and stop for lunch at the beautiful Ingleside Bakery Cafe . All the plants in the traditional courtyard reminded me of the UK, and the cakes are delicious!

In the afternoon it is worth a trip to the less well known Liffey Falls. It is a gentle 45 minute round stroll through a wooded area and you will get to see some beautiful waterfalls. There is also a huge tree imaginatively sign posted as the ‘Big Tree’.

Cataract Gorge is also worth a visit. Keep your eye out for the peacocks and kangaroos roaming freely together. If you are prepared and the weather is favourable it is worth considering the BBQs at the Gorge as it is a very picturesque setting and has a swimming pool in the centre with stunning views.

Day 1 Dinner: Palki Indian Restaurant In Launceston

If you fancy something warm and hearty located in central Launceston, check out Palki Indian Restaurant – a good casual dinner option as you adjust to the slightly cooler and potentially damper Tasmanian climate.

Day 2: Spend The Day At Cradle Mountain-Lake St Claire National Park

Grab an early breakfast from Launceston and head to Cradle Mountain National Park, a must visit on any Tasmania itinerary. It takes 2h30m from Launceston, but it’s definitely worth the trip as the scenery is stunning, even by Tasmanian standards.

When you arrive at Lake St Claire National Park, catch the shuttle bus to get to the starting point of the various hiking trails and to Cradle Mountain itself. The bus stops off at three places: Waldheim, Ronny Creek and Dove Lake.

Things to know about Cradle Mountain walks: the shuttle bus leaves every 20 minutes and you can hop on and off as many times as you like. You must buy a National Parks pass before you can take the bus at Lake St Claire National Park. You can either buy it online or at the visitor centre at the park.

There is also a small cafe at the visitors centre selling hot drinks and sandwiches if you need something to fuel the hikes.

Cradle Mountain Walks To Choose

Whilst the number 1 best walk in Australia is the Overland Track in Tasmania, this 65km hike takes 6 days to complete through Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Seeing as this post is a 5 day Tasmania itinerary, I recommend one of the shorter Cradle Mountain walks to consider below, which won’t take more than a few hours to complete. Whilst there are 12 Cradle Mountain hikes to choose from, these are the following I personally did.

The Most Popular Cradle Mountains walk Dove Lake Circuit 6km // 3hrs

Dove Lake Circuit is the most popular of the Cradle Mountain walks to go on! Head on the Dove Lake walk if you want some close up views of Cradle Mountain without actually climbing it. If you are lucky enough the clouds will clear and you’ll be able to see the peaks of Cradle Mountain. It is a fairly easy circuit walk that takes 3-4 hours and the path is board walks for the majority of the way around.

There are no eating options around Dove Lake so a picnic and plenty of water is a must. There is the perfect picnic stop about 3/4 of the way around with stunning views if you follow the loop clockwise.

Lake Lilla Walk 40minutes

Another walk I would recommend is the Lake Lilla walk. If you go in the mid to late afternoon you are likely to see some wild wombats. This was a personal highlight for me as it was my first time seeing them. They are unlike any other creature I had ever seen and much bigger than expected.

Enchanted Walk 1.2km // 30 minutes

The only other Cradle Mountain National Park walk we had time to do was the Enchanted Walk. This was principally designed for kids and was very easy but we did it on the hunt for spotting some wild kangaroos and were not disappointed.

If you’re interested in climbing to the Cradle Mountain summit, it’s a 6hr return and 10 to 12km.

Looking for more epic hikes in Australia? Read all about our visit to the insanely amazing Carnarvon Gorge

Day 2 Dinner: Prickly Cactus In Launceston

End day two of your Tasmania itinerary by either camping in the National Park or nearby. With it being around Christmas there was no availability for us to stay overnight. We headed back to Launceston and stopped for food at the Prickly Cactus which did nice tacos and margaritas.

Day 3: Visit Freycinet National Park

On day three of your Tasmania itinerary, start the day in the quirky Samuel Pepys café in Launceston. The café is decorated with spoons and is known for its wide selection of gluten free breakfast options. It has a brilliant atmosphere and is a perfect local experience to try whilst in Launceston.

Soon after breakfast, hit the road and head onwards to Freycinet National Park – referred to as the jewel of Tasmania’s eastern coastline. It takes about two hours to get there from Launceston and is a very picturesque drive. For those who like a wine, stop at Devil’s Corner Winery en-route to do some wine tasting and take in the views of the rolling hills of grapes. It was a hidden gem with a view point tower and also eating options alongside the winery.

If you have time before you reach Freycinet National Park you can stop at Bicheno – a small town on the coast. If you go at dusk you can watch the fairy penguins wander up to their burrows and there is also a blowhole which you can see in action when there is a swell.

Pick up some supplies for a picnic en-route as upon arrival into the Freycinet National Park there are not many options in the immediate National Park area. The National Park is famous for Wineglass Bay – a Bay shaped similar to a wine glass. You can hike Mount Amos – this is the most difficult option but has fantastic views on a clear day (don’t do this if it had been raining as it had been for us). An alternative option is the Wineglass Bay Lookout path. This would take about 2 hours to get to the lookout point and get down to Wineglass Bay beach itself.

Afternoon Hike To Hazards Beach

We took the option to continue to Hazards Beach after lunch and do the full 11km loop return back to the car park. This is a Grade 4 walk that takes 4 hours and is challenging in places but you are treated to white sand, crystal clear waters, woodland and stretching views of Great Oyster Bay. There are also plenty of options to stop for a picnic with a swim at Hazard’s beach after doing the climb and descent from Wineglass Bay lookout highly recommended.

Day 3 Dinner: Kathmandu Cuisine In Hobart

We were staying in Battery Point in Hobart for the final two nights of the trip and so headed to Hobart for dinner which takes about 2.5 hours from Freycinet National Park. If you like Nepalese food or are curious about Nepalese food, I would recommend Kathmandu Cuisine in Battery Point. The food is great and prices are reasonable with an authentic atmosphere and Nepalese beers on offer.

If you don’t fancy the drive back to Hobart and want to stay nearer Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay and Bicheno are other options to consider although they are smaller than Hobart so would have less options for dinner.

Day 4: Spend The Day At Port Arthur

If you are not starting too early head to Ginger Brown on the Southside for a Hobart breakfast. The menu is seasonal and the coffee is good!

Port Arthur is located 1.5 hours south east of Hobart and the main reason people visit the area is to visit the Port Arthur Historic Site, now listed on the UNESCO world heritage list. You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy this, it is one of the most interesting places to visit in Tasmania. The site is open between 10am – 5pm each day and you can easily spend half a day here.

There is a large outdoor site of over 100 acres and over 30 buildings that you can explore. A 45 minute guided walking tour is included as part of your entrance ticket and is a must if you want to understand why Port Arthur has such national and international significance. It was more than just a prison for over 2,000 convicts and developed into a full community of military and non-prisoners becoming a major industrial settlement .

Also included in your ticket is a harbour cruise tour which takes about 20 minutes and circles the Point Puer Boys Prison and Isle of the Dead. There is a small outlet on the boat selling snacks and drinks. You can also opt for the visitor site cafe which offers light meals, cakes and snacks.

In case of wet weather it is not all outdoors – there is the Port Arthur Gallery which is included in the entrance fee and has interactive exhibitions so you can learn more about Port Arthur and its history. If you have more time there are also a few other tours that would be worth looking into.

You can do a Port Arthur Ghost tour and an Escape from Port Arthur tour as well as a Prison and Power Tour which is a performance showcasing life for both convicts and guards in the 1800’s.

Spend The Afternoon On A Road Trip Back To Hobart

On the way back from Port Arthur to Hobart you can make a number of stops to break up the journey and visit, Tasmans Arch, Tasman Bay National Park Lookout and the blowhole at Pirates Bay. These are all lookout points so you don’t need long at each but they provide good photo opportunities.

Day 4 Dinner: At Victoria Dock

Head for dinner at one of the many restaurants around Victoria Dock on the edge of Central Hobart. Craving something hearty after a long day exploring Port Arthur Billy’s Burgers did not disappoint. If you are after something a bit more gourmet Dier Makr had been recommended to me although due to Covid it is currently only opening on Fridays and Saturdays so we didn’t have the opportunity to experience it.

Day 5: Spend The Final Day In Hobart

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and the most well known city on the island. It is worth spending a day here to add onto your Tasmania itinerary. I would suggest starting with some spectacular views from Mount Wellington.

You can hike it (takes a 5+ hours and is challenging) or you can drive which takes 30 minutes from Hobart. We also noticed that there is a shuttle bus which drops people off from the centre of Hobart. The view is nothing short of spectacular, although brace yourself for the brisk cool winds at the top which took many others by surprise.

When looking for lunch in Hobart, head to Jackman & McRoss . It is an excellent bakery with pastries, breakfast, coffee and pies. Most famous for their pies, we tried the scallop pie which is a unique Tasmanian pie and it was delicious!

Check Out Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery & MONA

You can wander the streets of Hobart, do some shopping and check out the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. This was free entry at the time of visiting and was surprisingly good. There were many interesting exhibitions and we wish we had more time to explore this. The centre of Hobart is easy to walk around and if you have chance the botanical gardens are worth checking out.

MONA was still closed for refurbishment when we were visiting so whilst rated one of the best things to do in Hobart, unfortunately we were not able to experience it. Based on what I have heard, it is definitely a must see so make sure you check it out once it reopens in early 2021.

Day 5 Dinner: Peacock and Jones In Hobart

There are plenty of dinner options in Hobart, but watch out if you are visiting earlier in the week as some only open Thursday – Sunday. Peacock and Jones on the waterfront was a hidden gem offering traditional Tasmanian food using local ingredients.

If you want to celebrate the end of your trip with some drinks head to The Glass House . This elegant-yet-casual floating bar attracts locals and tourists. The Glass House overlooks the Derwent River from Sullivan’s Cove and has a wide range of cocktails.

The airport is located about 30 minutes from central Hobart. There is no public transport connection but it is a small airport and easy to drop any hire car off, completing the amazing Tasmania itinerary!

Tasmania is a wonderful part of the world. Whilst we only spent 5 days there we could have easily spent much longer, and I hope to go back and explore the West coast at some point in the future.

A big thank you to Hannah for sharing her first time 5 day Tasmania itinerary! If you would like to share your adventures on Londoner In Sydney, simply fill out our Write For Us Form and we’ll get back to you asap.

5 Days In Tasmania Itinerary From Launceston

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Wonderful share

so informative.such great infomation

Thanks for the itinerary! Looking for a five day tour ourselves for April 2024. One thing I wish is that you had food recommendations for the 99% of us who don’t have Celiac Disease and therefore get no benefit from gluten free foods!

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14-Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Your 'ultimate' self-drive holiday and tasmania road trip.

This self-drive 14-day Tasmania itinerary is what I like to call your ‘Ultimate’ Tasmania road trip.

No rush. No pressure. Just 14 days of pure driving pleasure as you experience the best natural wonders, gastronomic delights and historic sites Tasmania has to offer!

This page contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). Read my full disclosure policy  here .

Self-drive Tasmania Itinerary (14 days)

Want to experience the very best Tasmania trip? 

14 days is the perfect amount of time, and a Tasmania road trip is the ultimate way to explore this amazing island.

But what should you see? Where to stay? And do you know the best places to eat?

To make things easy and stress-free I’ve used my extensive local knowledge to create this 14-day self-drive Tasmania itinerary.

Together with my wife I have called Tasmania home for more than 15 years now, so you can rest assured that all my recommendations come from personal experience and my passion to get out on the open road.

Day 1 – Hobart to Derwent Bridge

Day 2 – Derwent Bridge to Strahan

Day 3 – Strahan

Day 4 – Strahan to Cradle Mountain

Day 5 – Cradle Mountain

Day 6 – Cradle Mountain to Stanley

Day 7 – Stanley to Launceston (via Devonport and Sheffield)

Day 8 – Launceston to Bay of Fires (via Tamar Valley)

Day 9 – Bay of Fires

Day 10 – Bay of FIres to Coles Bay (Freycinet)

Day 11 – Coles Bay Freycinet)

Day 12 – Coles Bay to Port Arthur

Day 13 – Port Arthur to Richmond

Day 14 – Richmond to Hobart

When it comes to the structure of this 14-day Tasmania itinerary, I understand that  everyone has different travel priorities , and that’s why I’ve provided multiple options on some days so you can choose the place or activity that suits you best.

For some travellers, family-friendly activities are essential. Or perhaps you want to focus on the outdoors over historic sites? Maybe you prefer to self-cater, rather than eat out. And of course many of us need to stretch our travel dollar as far as it can go, while others will want to experience the Lap of Tasmania in luxury.

It is so important to me that your Tasmania road trip is as special as possible, no matter what your style of travel – which is why I have tailored this Tasmania itinerary to be extremely flexible and adjustable.

You can follow this itinerary exactly, or adjust it to suit your own preferences . Clockwise or anti-clockwise doesn’t matter at all – it’s that easy!

If you have any questions at all, or need more advice, we would love to hear from you over in our Lap of Tasmania Facebook Group . It is a super-friendly community without any grumpy buggers or keyboard warriors to spoil your fun – come and say g’day 😊

I feel that 14 days is the ideal amount of time for a Tasmania driving holiday .

The distance covered per day in this itinerary varies from as little as 110km up to 250km at the most, and this means you can drive around at a leisurely pace while still making the most of your time in Tasmania.

To ensure you aren’t feeling too rushed I’ve also included 2-night stays in the 5 most popular locations.

That’s enough chat… let’s get this show on the road!

Day 1: Hobart to Derwent Bridge (via Mt Field)

📌  Derwent Valley

• New Norfolk – St Matthews church, Bush Inn and Drill Hall Emporium.
• Pulpit Rock lookout
• Mt Field – Russell Falls short walk, Waterfalls Cafe and Gallery (souvenirs!)
• Westerway – Westerway Raspberry Farm (Dec-Mar) – OR – Platypus spotting
• Hamilton – Kingdom Gallery at Glen Clyde House
• Tarraleah – Highland cows and Hydro history
• Budget –  Highland Cabins and Cottages   (Bronte Park – 20mins from Derwent Bridge)
• Mid-Range – Derwent Bridge Chalets and Studios (Derwent Bridge)
• Indulgence – Tarraleah Lodge (Tarraleah)
• Camping – Mt Field National Park – OR – Left of Field (Mt Field)

Read More : Best Places to Stay in the Derwent Valley

🗺️ Got a couple of extra days? Extend your road trip!

For me, the Derwent Valley is one of Tasmania’s most special places and you could easily spend 3 or 4 nights in the region.

If you have the time, I recommend basing yourself in New Norfolk at the stunning  Explorers Lodge B&B ( read my review here ) and using it as a base to drive up to Mt Field, and out to Maydena, Lake Pedder and Strathgordon.

One other region that flies waaaay under the radar is the Central Highlands of Tasmania. Reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands, you will love a couple of nights at the gorgeous  Ratho Farm  in Bothwell ( read my review here ) and doing day-trips into the surrounding region.

Day 2: Derwent Bridge to Strahan

• Wall in the Wilderness wood carving – OR – Lake St Clair walking trails
• Drive the ’99 Bends’
• Franklin River Nature Trail
• Nelson Falls Nature trail
• Queenstown – Iron Blow Lookout
• Option 1: RoamWild Tour   – OR – Mountain biking on Mt Owen
• Option 2: Explore Queenstown by foot (Paragon Theatre, Soggy Brolly shared art space, Missing Tiger book store, historic Empire Hotel)
• Drive to Strahan
• Budget – Strahan Village (Strahan)
• Bed and Breakfast – Harrison House B&B (Strahan)
• Luxe – Wheelhouse Apartments (Strahan)
• Camping – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat (Strahan)

🥂 Special Offer - Harrison House B&B

Book the ‘Bed, Breakfast & Boat’ package with Harrison House B&B, and when you mention the Lap of Tasmania you will also receive your choice of either:

V alid for direct bookings only.

Strahan is a small town with limited late night dining options – especially on a Sunday.

View 42 (all week), Hamers Bar & Bistro (all week), and Risby Cove  (Wed-Sun) are your three best options, but make sure you arrive before 8:30pm. Regatta Point Tavern is also a good option, however they are only open from 6-8pm for dinner (all week).

For other venues around town try to arrive before 6:30pm.

Day 3: Strahan

• Gordon River & Macquarie Harbour Cruise – Promo Code : LAPOFTAS for 10% OFF
• Ocean Beach
• Platypus spotting at Hogarth Falls (Strahan) – OR – Henty Dunes
• Strahan – The Ship That Never Was

🗺️ Want more time on the West Coast? Queenstown is fantastic!

Queenstown is one of the most fascinating towns you will find anywhere in Australia.

Stay an extra night or two on your way to/from Strahan and discover its emerging arts scene and stark landscapes with a couple of nights at historic Penghana B&B ( read my review ). 

Many road trippers tell me that the West Coast Wilderness Railway is at its best when you start from the Queenstown end as well! 

Day 4: Strahan to Cradle Mountain

• ‘River and Rainforest’ Wilderness Railway Tour
• Zeehan – Spray Tunnel (if time allows)
• Vale of Belvoir Lookout
• Cradle Mountain Village – Explore short walks around the interpretation centre
• Best of the Best – Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village  – Promo Code:  LAPOFTAS  for  10% OFF
• Camping – Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain  – Promo Code:  TASBINGO for  25% OFF
• Budget  – Cradle Mountain Highlanders  
• Luxe – Cradle Mountain Lodge

Read More: Cradle Mountain Accommodation – 6 Amazing Places to Stay

Day 5: Cradle Mountain

🍴 Breakfast – Your accommodation – OR – Cradle Mountain Hotel (non-guests are allowed)

• Option 1: Dove Lake loop walk
• Option 2: Cradle Canyons Tour (summer)
• Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery
• Waldheim Alpine Spa – Spa Treatment
• Peppers Lodge – Wine and cheese tasting
• ‘After Dark’ Tassie Devil feeding tour
• Best of the Best – Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village –  Promo Code:  LAPOFTAS for 10% OFF
• Camping – Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF

😍 Special Offer - Cradle Mountain Accommodation

Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Resort is my favourite accommodation at Cradle Mountain, and after reaching out to them I was so happy when Andy and the team became a Partner of the Lap of Tasmania, helping road trippers find the perfect place to stay and keeping your holiday costs as low as possible 😊

Use the LAPOFTAS code and SAVE 10% when you stay at Cradle Mountain Wilderness Village Resort !

Day 6: Cradle Mountain to Stanley

• Hellyer Gorge scenic drive
• Table Cape – Lighthouse
• Table Cape – Tulip Farm (Sep-Oct)
• Boat Harbour Beach
• Drive on to Stanley
• Highfield House – Self-guided tour
• The ‘Nut’ – Chairlift to the top of the ‘Nut
• The ‘Nut’ – Explore the walking trails on top
• Camping – BIG4 Stanley Holiday Park (Stanley)
• Budget –  Stanley Upstairs (Stanley)
• Bed and Breakfast – The Ark Stanley (Stanley)
• Indulgence – Horizon Deluxe Apartments (Stanley)

Special Offer - The Ark Stanley

Mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your relaxing stay at The Ark Stanley and receive:

• Late checkout to noon!

Check prices and availability

Day 7: Stanley to Launceston (via Devonport and Sheffield)

• Coastal drive
• Burnie – Tastings at Hellyers Distillery
• Turner’s Beach – The Berry Patch
• Penguin – The ‘Big Penguin’
• See Ulverstone and Devonport
• Latrobe – Anvers Chocolates
• Sheffield – Explore the murals
• Ashgrove Cheese / Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm / Van Diemens Land Creamery
• Hagley – Hazelbrae Hazelnuts   (enjoy a picnic in their beautiful orchard!)
• See the historic towns of Deloraine, Westbury and Hadspen on your way to Launceston.
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hadspen –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Budget – Leisure Inn Penny Royal Apartments   (Launceston)
• Mid-Range – Kurrajong House  (Launceston)
• Modern – Hotel Verge (Launceston)
• Indulgence – Peppers Silo (Launceston)

Read More : Best Places to Stay in Launceston

Day 8: Launceston to Bay of Fires (via Tamar Valley)

• Launceston – Cataract Gorge – OR – Tamar Wetlands Walk
• Tamar Valley Wineries (after 11am) – Moores Hill, Small Wonder
• Bridestowe Lavender Farm (allow an extra 40mins drive time)
• ‘Tin Dragon’ Trail – See the historic towns of Branxholm, Derby and Weldborough
• Pyengana – Pyengana Dairy Farm Gate Cafe, St Columba Falls, Pub in the Paddock
• Mountain bikers will want at least half a day to ride the world-class trails of ‘Blue Derby’
• Camping – Big4 St Helens Holiday Park (St Helens)
• Budget – Queechy Motel   (St Helens)
• Relaxing B&B – Beaumaris Beach Guest House  (Beaumaris Beach)
• Indulgence – Sea Eagle Cottage (Binalong Bay)

🎉 Special Offer - Beaumaris Beach Guest House

Use my LAPOFTAS code when booking your beach escape at Beaumaris Beach Guest House and receive 5% OFF all room rates !

Valid for direct bookings only , and not available in combination with other offers.

Day 9: Bay of Fires

• Bay of Fires Eco Tour (by boat)
• Lease 65 Oysters
• Option 1: Explore the Bay of Fires beaches, dunes and coves north of Binalong Bay
• Option 2: Visit Suncoast Gallery, The Shop in the Bush, and Priority Ridge Winery (Sep-May)
• Sunset over the rocks of Binalong Bay ( here )
• Budget – Queechy Motel   (St Helens)
• Relaxing B&B –  Beaumaris Beach Guest House (Beaumaris Beach)

Day 10: Bay of Fires to Coles Bay (Freycinet)

• Four Mile Creek – Tastings at Ironhouse Brewery
• Douglas Apsley National Park – Apsley River Waterhole
• Bicheno – The Bicheno blowhole
• Freycinet Marine Farm
• Friendly Beaches
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse
• Camping – Big4 Iluka on Freycinet (Coles Bay)
• Great Value B&B – Freycinet Waters B&B   (Swansea – 40mins from Coles Bay)
• Indulgence – Freycinet Lodge  (Coles Bay)
• Ultimate Luxury – Picnic Island (Coles Bay)

🌞 Special Offer - Freycinet Waters B&B

Mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your cosy seaside retreat at Freycinet Waters and receive:

Day 11: Coles Bay (Freycinet)

• Option 1: Wineglass Bay Cruise
• Option 2: Walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout and then either spend the rest of the morning looping back via Hazards Beach, or return the same way you went in and then explore Coles Bay until lunch
• Option 1: If you book the cruise then lunch is provided
• Option 2: Enjoy lunch at The Bay Restaurant at Freycinet Lodge
• Option 3: Enjoy a casual meal at Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar (Coles Bay)
• Option 1: Freycinet and Maria Island scenic flight
• Option 2: Visit Providore Wine Glass (Freycinet Lodge) and then enjoy a Tasmanian Tasting session – wine, whisky or gin – at the Lodge (Freycinet Lodge)

Day 12: Coles Bay to Port Arthur

• Apslawn Wineries – Devil’s Corner, Spring Vale and Milton vineyards
• Swansea – Spiky Bridge and Spiky Beach

🌊 Maria Island Cruises - 10% OFF

Located halfway between Freycinet and the Tasman Peninsula, Maria Island is my favourite place in Tasmania, and it is an absolute ‘must’ if you can squeeze it into your itinerary!

Let the wonderful crew at  Maria Island Cruises   take care of you as you enjoy one of their two cruise/walk combo tours departing from Triabunna.

Both tours provide the opportunity to spend time on the island exploring by foot, but you also get the choice of either a full circumnavigation of the island, or a cruise to the stunning Ile des Phoques.

Use my  LAPOFTAS  code and receive  10% OFF  your cruise!

Valid for direct bookings only.

• Pirate’s Bay Lookout
• Tessellated Pavement – OR – Officer’s Quarters Museum (Eaglehawk Neck)
• Tasman Arch
• Devil’s Kitchen
• Remarkable Cave
• Port Arthur Ghost Tour
• Camping – NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park   (Port Arthur)
• Budget – Port Arthur Villas (Port Arthur)
• Relaxing Bed and Breakfast – Storm Bay B&B (White Beach – 10mins from Port Arthur)
• Indulgence – Stewarts Bay Lodge (Port Arthur)

🌞 Special Offer - Storm Bay B&B

Use my LAPOFTAS code online, or mention the Lap of Tasmania when booking your relaxing escape at  Storm Bay B&B on the beautiful Tasman Peninsula and receive:

• 10% OFF stays of 2-nights or longer

Valid for direct bookings only. Some blockout dates may apply. Not applicable to tours booked through Storm Bay B&B.

Day 13: Port Arthur to Richmond

• Port Arthur Historic Site
• Richmond Village – See St John’s Church, Richmond Bridge, historic Main Street, Richmond Gaol, and the Richmond Wine Wall
• Wicked Cheese
• Pooley Wines – OR – Coal River Farm
• Families – Tara’s Richmond Farmstay  
• Budget – Every Man and His Dog Vineyard  
• B&B –  Mulberry Cottage  
• Luxury and Romance – Prospect Country House   – Stay 3 Nights & Pay for 2 – Mention the Lap of Tasmania over the phone to claim!

    Looking for a romantic escape?

Stay 3-nights & Pay for 2  at gorgeous Prospect Country House. Just mention the Lap of Tasmania when making your booking over the phone! – Check Prices Here

Day 14: Richmond to Hobart

• Mt Wellington Summit
• Salamanca Market (Saturday) – OR – Farm Gate Market (Sunday)
• Hobart Waterfront – Salamanca, Brooke Street Pier
• Visit Beauty and the Bees
• Lark Distillery
• Kelly’s Steps
• Walk to Battery Point and explore
• Alternative Option – Hobart’s Hop-on Hop-off Bus
• MONA Ferry and Museum – Splurge and get a ‘Posh Pit’ ticket ( my guide )
• Sunset drinks at The Glass House
• Camping – Discovery Parks Hobart –  Promo Code:  TASBINGO  for  25% OFF
• Couples B&B (south side) – Waterview Gardens B&B (Margate)
• Couples B&B (east side) – Oceana B&B (Howrah)
• Budget (Families) – Bay Hotel Apartments   (Hobart)
• Budget (Historic) – Edinburgh Gallery (Hobart)
• Mid-Range – RACV Hobart Hotel  (Hobart)
• Indulgence – MACq 01 (Hobart)
• Ultimate Luxury – MONA Pavilions (Hobart)

Read More : Best Places to Stay in Hobart

🌞 Special Offer - Waterview Gardens B&B

Mention the  Lap of Tasmania  when booking your delightful Hobart getaway at  Waterview Gardens B&B  and receive:

• 10% OFF  your booking; and
• FREE bottle of bubbles 🍾 – OR –  cheese platter 🧀 upon arrival!

Plan your Tasmania road trip

I hope you have found my 14-day Tasmania road trip itinerary useful in planning your holiday!

To put it all together just takes 5 simple steps…

• Learn more about the Lap of Tasmania,  the best time to visit and places to see
• Plan your road trip itinerary (right here!)
• Book your flight or ferry to Tasmania
• Book your hire car or campervan
• Book your accommodation

Happy travels, Andrew.

ps. If this is your first time visiting Tasmania, or you are a bit nervous about planning your road trip, then you will love my eBook – “ How to Plan Your Tasmania Road Trip “. It  takes you through the whole process in easy-to-follow steps and also includes a free Holiday Planner that you can use for Tasmania and any other holiday you take in the future!

Travel planning resources

Tasmania’s remote location means there are internet ‘black spots’ across the island. 

A hard copy travel guide or map is the perfect backup, and I love the range from Lonely Planet.

Guide to Tasmania

Map of tasmania, road trip guide.

Andrew Strikis

We acknowledge and pay respect to the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community as the traditional owners  and continuing custodians  of  this island lutruwita (Tasmania).

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Best Tasmania Itinerary 10 Days: A Detailed Self-Drive Itinerary for Tasmania (2024)

Looking for a comprehensive Tasmania itinerary 10 days long?

My Tasmania road trip itinerary was one of my favourite parts of my 2-month trip to Australia in 2022. I spent 18 days on a lap of Tasmania with my mom and while I most definitely could have spent longer, I’ve put together this 10 day Tasmania itinerary that will have you hitting all the highlights of this nature-packed isle.

This 10 days in Tasmania itinerary is jam-packed with stunning wild nature, scenic hikes, unique coastlines and cool, quaint towns. And, you can’t talk about an itinerary for Tasmania without mentioning the food (a day on Bruny Island was my favourite for this)! 

Every nook and cranny of Tasmania has something special to offer. From the red rocks of Bay of Fires , and the sprawling vineyards of Tamar Valley , to the scenic Tasman Island cruise , this self-drive Tasmania 10 days trip covers it all. 

* This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

My detailed Tasmania 10 day itinerary starts in the Tasman capital of Hobart but can be joined anywhere along its route. Unlike most places where you can get from A to B in varying ways, renting a car in Tasmania is by far the best way to see the island. 

I’ll cover my recommended stops , things to do , where to stay (including some lovely boutique hotels) and travel tips to make your 10 days Tasmania itinerary a fun and stress-free experience.

Alright, buckle up, and let’s dive into this 10 day Tasmania self drive itinerary.

10 Day Tasmania Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Hobart – Battery Point, CBD/Harbour, Mount Wellington Day 2: Hobart – Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, Richmond + MONA Day 3: Bruny Island – Gourmet + Lighthouse Day Tour Day 4: Port Arthur – Tasman Island Cruise + Port Arthur Historic Site Day 5: Freycinet National Park – Wineglass Bay Lookout Hike Day 6: Bay of Fires – Binalong Bay + St Helens Day 7: Launceston – Cataract Gorge Day 8: Tamar Valley – Winery Tour Day 9: Cradle Mountain National Park – Dove Lake Hike Day 10: Strahan – Gordon River Cruise

10 Day Tasmania Itinerary Road Trip: Route Map

Starting Your 10 Days Tasmania Itinerary

I’ve made the assumption in this 10 days in Tasmania that you will be arriving the night before the 10 day itinerary begins (day 0) and will be well rested to begin on day 1 in central Hobart.

Starting in Hobart

This 10 day Tasmania itinerary starts and ends in Hobart . If it’s convenient for you, you can pick up your rental car at the Hobart airport when you land and start your self-drive adventure on day 1 of this itinerary. 

My mom and I decided to make our way into Hobart for the first few days without a car, and complete the activities either on our own or through guided day trips . We then picked up our car from Hobart Airport before heading to Port Arthur.

This worked out well for us.

Starting in Launceston

If you happen to be taking the ferry over from Melbourne and find yourself starting your 10 days in Tasmania in Launceston, you can start from day 8 of this Tasmania itinerary and end your journey on day 7. 

This will take you on a lap of Tasmania starting and ending in Launceston.

Renting a Car in Tasmania

Exploring Tasmania via a self-drive itinerary truly allows you to capture the spirit of this remarkable island. A rental car offers the flexibility to venture off the beaten track, linger at sights that captivate you (we stopped a lot!) and set your own pace on your 10-day Tasmania itinerary.

Most major car rental companies have desks at Tasmania’s airports , including Hobart and Launceston. However, it’s a good idea to book your rental car in advance (this is what I did!), especially during peak tourism season. This ensures you secure the vehicle of your choice at the best rates. 

I RECOMMEND DISCOVER CARS!

Discover Cars works with local Australian companies and large international companies to find you the cheapest price based on your needs. Plus, some providers even offer a free additional driver! 

The great thing about Discover Cars is you can add full car rental insurance for under $11 AUD a day. Super affordable >> BOOK NOW

I booked my Tasmania rental car through Discover Cars and have used them multiple times throughout my global travels, including 3 times along my Australia adventures with zero issues. 

Tips for Driving in Tasmania

When planning your Tasmania self drive 10 days adventure, consider the following tips for driving in Tasmania : 

Check out this detailed guide on renting a car in Tasmania (plus tips!)

4WD Isn’t Necessary

For the adventurous, a 4WD may be the best fit for your Tasmania driving itinerary, especially if you plan on exploring some of Tasmania’s rugged terrains. However, a standard vehicle will serve you just fine for most of the routes on your Tasmania road trip itinerary. 

Do note that there are sections of this Tasmania road trip that will take you along some very winding roads .

Driving in Tasmania is on the left side of the road

Check the Car Rental Policy

When renting a car for your 10 day Tasmania self drive, make sure to check the rental policies . 

Most companies include a basic insurance cover, but it’s wise to consider additional insurance for peace of mind. I always purchase the full coverage car insurance through Discover Cars with my rental car reservation. It makes it easy peasy.

Also, be sure to check the fuel policy and whether you will need to return the vehicle with a full tank of fuel. 

Do note, that you and any other drivers along your 10 day Tasmania itinerary can only drive your car hire on roads that are properly formed and sealed . It is prohibited to drive on beaches or through water sources like rivers and flood waters.

Finally, a GPS will be helpful (whether purchased with your car rental or your smartphone) for your 10 days Tasmania itinerary. While Tasmania may be a small island, its scenic routes can sometimes be confusing, especially in more remote areas. I can attest to this since we ended up on a very bumpy dirt road driving from Port Arthur up to Bicheno.

TIP | Download an offline Google Maps for Tasmania before starting your road trip. This will allow you to always stay on track even when the internet is spotty.

Book your Tasmania car hire now .

Taking an Organized Tasmania Tour Instead

This Tasmania itinerary outlines a 10 day self-drive adventure by rental car from Hobart. 

But if fussing with renting a car in Tasmania and driving around the island sounds like a headache to you, there are some really great, well-reviewed organized tours of Tasmania. 

Each Tasmania tour comes with transportation , accommodation and an experienced tour guide . All of the recommended tours below start and end in Hobart.

• 8 Day Lap of Tasmania Itinerary Tour
• 7 Day East & West Coast Tasmania Tour
• 6 Day Tasmania Adventure Tour
• 5 Day Best of Tasmania Tour Itinerary

Tasmania National Parks Pass

Visiting the national parks is a highlight of any Tasmania trip itinerary, and rightly so. These natural wonders offer some of the island’s most breathtaking views, unique wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities. To enter these protected landscapes on your Tasmania 10-day self-drive itinerary, you’ll need a Tasmania National Parks Pass (it is required!).

This pass is not only your ticket to nature’s playground, but it also contributes to maintaining the pristine state of these parks . The revenue from the pass helps with conservation efforts, maintaining facilities and improving visitor services.

24 Hour or 2 Month Tasmania National Parks Pass?

You can purchase a pass that lasts for 24 hours or opt for the 2 Month Holiday Pass if you’re planning a longer Tasmania holiday itinerary (like this one). 

Where Can You Purchase a Tasmania National Parks Pass?

Passes can be purchased online , from visitor information centres, National Park visitor centres, or Service Tasmania shops. You can also buy them from some Tasmanian travel agents and the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne to Tasmania.

Remember, some activities like camping, or tours like the Bruny Island Cruise or Gordon River Cruise, may have additional costs , so it’s essential to budget for these in your Tasmania travel itinerary 10 days long.

Tasmania Itinerary 10 Days: Days 1 + 2

Day 1: Hobart (Battery Point, CBD/Harbour, Mount Wellington)

About hobart.

Serving as the capital city of Tasmania , Hobart is an intriguing blend of vibrant culture, rich history, and remarkable scenic vistas. 

With its location on the edge of the Derwent River , Hobart is cherished for its stunning waterfront vistas, architectural beauty, and pulsating food scene that’s deeply intertwined with its local produce. 

This city’s distinctive charm lies in its effortless fusion of the old with the new – heritage buildings lining the streets, contemporary art spaces, and bustling markets. As a cultural hotspot with nature’s bounty at its doorstep, Hobart makes an ideal kick-off point for your Tasmania self-drive itinerary 10 days. 

Discover its colonial past, sample gastronomic delights, and immerse in its lively arts scene – Hobart has something for everyone.

And, if you happen to be visiting the city for the weekend, it has plenty of really easy day trips from Hobart .

Don’t have a car? These are the best day tour from Hobart

Where to Stay in Hobart

Top Pick | Moss Hotel Boutique | MACq 01 Hotel Mid-Range | Vibe Hotel Economy | Alabama Hotel

Breakfast in Battery Point Neighbourhood

Begin your Tasmania trip itinerary with a blissful morning in the historic Battery Point neighbourhood, often considered as Hobart’s crown jewel. The old-world charm of this place is evident in its quaint streets and beautifully preserved colonial architecture . 

Leave your Hobart boutique hotel and start your day with a freshly brewed cup of artisan coffee at Ozus Coffee. Loved by locals and visitors alike, this café is a small slice of coffee heaven that you can’t miss on your Tasmania road trip 10 days. 

Next, indulge in a delightful breakfast at Jackman & McRoss , an iconic bakery renowned for its delectable range of pastries and baked goods. Made with locally-sourced Tasmanian produce, their offerings provide a sumptuous start to your Tasmanian exploration.

My recommended list of beautiful boutique hotels in Hobart

Morning in CBD & Harbour District

Post breakfast, gear up for a cultural exploration of Hobart’s CBD and Harbour District. 

Your 10 day road trip Tasmania starts to heat up as you amble through the bustling Salamanca Arts Centre , a central hub for artists and craftsmen. This creative space, housed in historic sandstone buildings, offers an array of local craft shops, galleries, and theatres – a perfect spot for art enthusiasts. I really loved having a wee whisky and gin tasting at Spirited Tasmania.

Following your cultural immersion, meander along the picturesque harbour, marvelling at the boats bobbing in the clear blue water. 

No morning in Hobart is complete without sampling some delicious Tasmanian ice cream . Grab a scoop or two from Van Diemens Land Creamery , savouring their distinct flavours as you soak up the scenic beauty of this vibrant harbour city. I had Van Diemens multiple times along this Tasmania trip with zero regrets.

To save your legs, you can always opt for the popular Hobart hop-on hop-off bus to take you around to all of the city’s top attractions.

Save your legs and use the hop-on hop-off bus instead

Optional: Salamanca Market on Saturdays

If you happen to be starting your itinerary for Tasmania on a Saturday, make sure to leave time to peruse the island’s biggest outdoor market – the Salamanca Market. 

Chock full of stalls housing impeccably made Tasman produce and products , you could easily spend an entire morning or afternoon roaming through. 

Lunch at the Historical Cascade Brewery

As the clock strikes noon on your Tasmania 10 day self drive itinerary, it’s time for a lunch break at the iconic Cascade Brewery. 

Established in 1824 , it’s Australia’s oldest continually operating brewery , making it an essential pit stop on your Tasmania holiday itinerary. Its Gothic architecture, sprawling gardens, and the backdrop of majestic Mount Wellington will have you reaching for your camera before you even step inside. 

The brewery is also home to the historic female factory site which was built to reform female convicts in the 19th century. You can take a tour of the site if you are interested, but this itinerary for Tasmania is chocker block full, so I couldn’t say it’s a must-do.

Once within the restaurant, indulge in their impressive lunch menu featuring local Tasmanian produce that pairs perfectly with their wide range of beers. I enjoyed their Cascade Pale Ale , the longest continuously brewed beer in the country.

If you’re a beer enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to join a brewery tour . 

You’ll learn about Cascade’s brewing process, heritage and maybe even discover your new favourite ale or lager. It’s a gastronomic journey that adds a unique flavour to your Tasmania self-drive adventure.

• Mount Wellington Lookout

After a satisfying lunch at Cascade Brewery, your 10 day Tasmania self drive itinerary takes you to one of Hobart’s most breathtaking attractions: the Mount Wellington lookout. 

This majestic mountain’s summit promises awe-inspiring panoramic views over Hobart , the Derwent River, and beyond. Embarking on the Pinnacle Road towards the peak is an adventure in itself, with scenic vistas at every turn that will leave you spellbound. 

Yes, the roads up to Mt Wellington are very twisty ! If you aren’t super comfortable with driving winding roads with blind corners, I would recommend leaving the rental car at your Hobart hotel and boarding the Mt Wellington Explorer Bus . 

The popular 2.5 hour Mt Wellington/Kunanyi explorer bus departs from the Hobart harbour 5 times daily at 9:30AM, 11AM, 12:30PM, 2PM and 3:30PM (make sure to double check times). 

Purchase your Mt Wellington Explorer Bus tickets

The best time to visit is late in the afternoon when the sun drapes the landscape in a warm, golden glow (also the best time for photos!). This magical experience will serve as a memorable highlight of your Tasmania driving itinerary, offering the perfect spot for some stunning photos of your Tasmania adventure. 

Dinner in Downtown Hobart

Conclude your first day in Tasmania with a culinary delight at Peppina or Aloft . 

Peppina is a haven for lovers of Italian cuisine , offering a menu bursting with authentic flavours and traditional recipes. Cozy up in a booth and sip on a beautiful Tasman wine.

If you’re seeking a more contemporary Tasmanian culinary experience, Aloft offers an innovative menu featuring locally sourced ingredients prepared with modern techniques. Make sure to reserve in advance, since Aloft’s location in the Brook Street Pier makes it a hot spot for harbour views at sunset.

Savour the flavours and the ambience as you conclude the first day of your Tasmania 10 day tour.

Day 1 of 10 Days in Tasmania Itinerary – Top Attractions

• Hobart – Battery Point
• Hobart – CBD & Harbour District
• Historic Cascades Brewery

Day 2: Hobart (Wildlife, Richmond & MONA)

Morning coffee at pigeon whole bakers.

Wake up and welcome day two of your Tasmania 10 day self-drive itinerary with a refreshing morning coffee at Pigeon Whole Bakers . 

This bakery-cafe located in the heart of Hobart is highly acclaimed for its artisanal bread, delicious pastries and, of course, a robust coffee menu . Sink your teeth into one of their heavenly bagels , freshly baked and generously filled. I loved the one with poppy seeds on top.

It’s an experience not to be missed on your Tasmania road trip 10 days.

Day Trip to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

Following your hearty breakfast, embark on an enriching day trip to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, a safe haven for Tasmanian wildlife . This is where your Tasmania self-drive itinerary takes a delightful turn into nature. 

Bonorong is home to various native animals, including kangaroos, wombats , and of course, the infamous Tasmanian devils . Don’t miss the opportunity to hand-feed kangaroos or engage in a personal encounter with a wombat. Bonorong is not just a sanctuary; it’s a place to fall in love with Tasmania’s unique wildlife.

Grab your Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary entry ticket

TIP | Take the included tour of the grounds where they will talk about each of the native Tasman animals.

Late Morning in Historic Richmond

Next, travel back in time to the historic town of Richmond. 

Steeped in heritage, this town is a treasure trove of well-preserved Georgian architecture . 

Park near the iconic Richmond Bridge , Australia’s oldest stone span bridge , and take a leisurely walk around its arches, soaking in the scenic riverside views. 

Your journey into Richmond’s past continues at Richmond Gaol , the oldest intact gaol in Australia, offering a glimpse into the convict era. 

Lunch in Richmond

Post exploration, satiate your hunger at either Czeg’s Cafe or Wattlebanks Cafe . 

Czeg’s offers a relaxed atmosphere with a menu filled with delectable lunch options, while Wattlebanks Cafe is known for its locally sourced produce and enticing dishes. 

Either choice will provide a delightful dining experience on your second day of Tasmania self-drive 10 days.

If you haven’t picked up your rental car yet or would like the addition of a knowledgeable guide, you can opt to take this popular 9-hour Bonorong Sanctuary, Richmond & Mt. Field organized day tour instead of self-driving.

Optional: Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

An optional but highly recommended addition to your Tasmania holiday itinerary is a visit to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens . Home to a collection of significant trees, beautiful flowers and plants , the gardens provide a tranquil escape for nature lovers.

The gardens are free to enter.

Afternoon at the MONA

Conclude your day with an afternoon visit to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) . An art experience unlike any other, MONA offers thought-provoking exhibits that will challenge your perception of art and life. This was one of the best museums I’ve visited in the world . 

Dive deep into contemporary pieces , antiquities, and interactive displays as you explore this intriguing space. 

Do note that you will see some very progressive pieces that might be shocking to some travellers. Go in with an open mind and you are bound to really enjoy it!

As the sun sets on the second day of your Tasmania trip itinerary, reflect on the artful end to a memorable day.

Day 2 of Tasmania 10 Day Itinerary – Top Attractions

• Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
• Historical Town of Richmond
• Royal Botanical Gardens
• MONA – Museum of Old and New Art

Tasmania Itinerary 10 Days: Day 3

Day 3: Bruny Island (Day Tour or Self-Drive)

About bruny island.

Bruny Island, an enchanting gem in the Tasman Sea, is a must-include in any Tasmania 10 day tour. This small yet diverse island, split into North and South Bruny by a narrow isthmus known as ‘The Neck’, offers a unique blend of spectacular landscapes, rich wildlife , and a thriving local food scene (believe me, it’s absolutely drool-worthy).

Whether you’re hiking through its ancient rainforests, spotting white wallabies , or savouring the freshest oysters you’ll ever taste, Bruny Island captures the heart of every traveller. 

Its breathtaking beaches and rugged cliffs make for fantastic photo opportunities (I couldn’t put my camera down), while the tranquil bays are perfect for unwinding after a day’s exploration.

I found Bruny Island to be a microcosm of the greater island of Tasmania making it an essential stop in your Tasmania self-drive itinerary 10 days.

How to Get from Hobart to Bruny Island (Self Drive)

Day three of your Tasmania 10 day self-drive itinerary brings you to the natural haven of Bruny Island. A road trip Tasmania 10 days wouldn’t be complete without this must-visit spot. If you’re opting for self-drive, the route is straightforward. 

Just a 40-minute drive south of Hobart to Kettering , followed by a 20-minute ferry ride across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, lands you on Bruny Island. Keep an eye out for dolphins during the crossing, as they’re often seen accompanying the ferry!

The Bruny Island Ferry

The Bruny Island Ferry departs regularly (every 20 minutes) from Kettering starting at 6:10AM and is the primary means of reaching the island. Tickets can be purchased on arrival at the terminal . 

Note that during peak periods, particularly during the summer months, the ferry can be quite busy, so arrive early to ensure a spot for your vehicle. We left Hobart around 8AM and caught the 8:50AM ferry and it worked out well.

Check the Bruny Island ferry timetable before departing.

Best Bruny Island Organized Day Tour

Alternatively if you prefer to sit back and relax, consider joining an organized Bruny Island day tour . Several operators offer comprehensive packages that cover the island’s highlights, such as Get Shucked Oyster Farm, The Neck Lookout, and Bruny Island Cheese Company. 

Plus, these tours often include transport and meals, ensuring a hassle-free excursion on your Tasmania 10 day tour.

These are my recommended guided Bruny Island day tours that are popular and highly reviewed:

• Ultimate Full-Day Bruny Island Tour (most popular)
• Gourmet Full-Day Bruny Island Tour
• 3-Hour Bruny Island Cruise (Departs from Bruny Island)
• Full-Day Bruny Island Cruise (Departs from Hobart)

Read my detailed selection of Bruny Island Tours from Hobart

Explore Bruny Island 

Once on Bruny Island, you’ll be spoilt for choice with attractions. 

For nature lovers, South Bruny National Park is a must, home to towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and serene beaches. Don’t miss The Neck Lookout , a narrow isthmus providing panoramic views of the island on your way down to the Cape Bruny Lighthouse (my favourite non-gourmet attraction on the island).

Foodies will love Get Shucked Oyster Farm and Bruny Island Cheese Company , both offering mouth-watering local produce. This is a Tasmania east coast itinerary delight!

Check out this comprehensive list of things to do on Bruny Island and the perfectly structured one-day Bruny Island itinerary.

Comprehensive guide to what to do on Bruny Island

Evening Drive from Hobart to Port Arthur

After an adventurous day, the evening drive from Bruny Island to Hobart and Hobart to Port Arthur will take you approximately 2 hours (depending on traffic). This drive is a great time to unwind, take in the landscapes, and maybe take a few nibbles of your Bruny Island culinary souvenirs. 

Arriving in Port Arthur, check in to your accommodation and rest up for the upcoming exploration on Day 4 of your Tasmania road trip itinerary.

I stayed at the Port Arthur Villas and can recommend it.

Day 3 of 10 Day Tasmania Itinerary – Top Attractions

• Bruny Island Oysters & Culinary Delights
• The Neck Lookout
• Cape Bruny Lighthouse

Tasmania Itinerary 10 Days: Day 4

Day 4: Port Arthur (Historical Site & Tasman Island Cruise)

About port arthur.

Port Arthur, an intriguing chapter of Tasmania’s past, is an essential stop on your Tasmania holiday itinerary. 

The town of Port Arthur was built around a former convict settlement, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site , it’s a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Surrounded by wild bushland and dramatic coastlines, Port Arthur is a silent storyteller of Australia’s early convict history. 

Museums, restored houses, and the haunting ruins of the prison make this location an immersive historical experience. It’s not all history, though – the area also boasts excellent hiking trails and is home to the popular cruise to Tasman Island , making it a dynamic part of your Tasmania 10 day self-drive itinerary.

Detailed Review of the Tasman Island Adventure Cruise

Where to Stay in Port Arthur

Top Pick | Port Arthur Villas Boutique | Stewarts Bay Lodge Mid-Range | Ruby’s Cottage Farm Stay Economy | NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park

Morning on a Tasman Island Cruise 

Energize your Tasmania itinerary 10 days with a morning Tasman Island Cruise . Pennicott Wilderness Journeys run this adventurous 3-hour journey , a chance to skirt the edge of the Tasman National Park. 

The towering sea cliffs here are among the tallest in the world, while the diversity of marine wildlife is sure to amaze. From frolicking dolphins and sunbathing seals to nesting seabirds, the cruise offers plenty of photo opportunities, promising a memorable start to your 10 day Tasmania road trip.

Do note, this is an adventure cruise so don’t expect a leisurely sailing pace. There were a few times I was splashed with sea water because of the large waves and the fast pace of the boat.

This 3-hour Tasman Island Cruise is the one I took and highly recommend.

Afternoon at the Port Arthur Historic Site

The Port Arthur Historic Site is a highlight of the best Tasmania itinerary. Roam the well-preserved ruins and grand estates from the convict era , and understand Australia’s colonial past through interactive exhibits. 

Don’t miss the guided walking tour , a short harbour cruise , and a visit to the Isle of the Dead. This peek into history is a profound and evocative experience that sets Port Arthur apart on your Tasmania self-drive itinerary 10 days. You could spend an entire day here, but because we are hitting all of the highlights of the island, I recommend a maximum of 2 hours.

Reserve and purchase your Port Arthur Historic Site entry tickets in advance

Remarkable Caves

The Remarkable Caves, aptly named, are another fascinating addition to your Tasmania east coast itinerary. These natural formations, carved by the relentless Southern Ocean, boast intriguing shapes and cavernous spaces .

Time your visit for low tide , and you can see the cave’s mouth resemble the map of Tasmania. The surrounding area also offers some lovely walks and a beautiful beach, making it a worthwhile stop on your Tasmania road trip 10 days.

Optional: Port Arthur Lavender

Relax and rejuvenate at the Port Arthur Lavender farm. This oasis of calm, nestled amongst lush greenery, houses an extensive lavender field, a gift shop, and a café. 

The picturesque setting is perfect for a leisurely stroll , or you could sample the café’s lavender-infused menu for a unique culinary delight. This sensory stopover is a delightful addition to your 10 day Tasmania itinerary.

Optional: McHenry’s Distillery Tasting

Cap off your day at McHenry’s Distillery, the southernmost whisky distillery in Australia .

 A staple on any Tasmania suggested itinerary, the distillery uses pure Tasmanian ingredients to craft a range of spirits , including gin, vodka, and whisky. Join a guided tour to learn about the distillation process and enjoy a tasting session as you revel in the distillery’s serene surroundings. 

It’s an excellent way to wrap up your day in Port Arthur during your self-drive Tasmania 10 days adventure.

Day 4 of 10 Days Tasmania Itinerary – Top Attractions

• Tasman Island Cruise
• Port Arthur Historic Site
• Port Arthur Lavender
• Remarkables Caves

Tasmania Itinerary 10 Days: Day 5

• Day 5: Freycinet National Park

Devil’s Kitchen + Tasman Arch

Experience the power of nature on day 5 of your Tasmania self-drive itinerary 10 days by visiting Devil’s Kitchen and Tasman Arch. These spectacular natural rock formations , found within Tasman National Park, have been crafted by erosion over millions of years. 

Devil’s Kitchen, a deep trench carved by the sea, and Tasman Arch, an incredible natural bridge, provide striking coastal vistas. Ensure you’ve acquired your Tasmania National Parks Pass for access to these amazing sights, a key tip for your Tasmania road trip planner.

Tesselated Pavement

Your 10 day Tasmania road trip itinerary should include the Tesselated Pavement , a unique geological marvel near Eaglehawk Neck . 

This naturally formed ‘pavement’ features a series of interlocked rectangles , a result of erosion by sea waves. An easy, quick walk takes you to this intriguing spectacle, another aspect of Tasmania’s rich and diverse geology.

Tasman Bay National Park Lookout and Coffee at Cubed Espresso

Begin your day at the Tasman Bay National Park Lookout, an idyllic spot to drink in panoramic views of the bay . Pair the beautiful vistas with a delicious coffee from Cubed Espresso , a small kiosk serving up expertly brewed coffees. 

This peaceful, picturesque morning routine sets the perfect tone for your Tasmania east coast itinerary . It was such a spectacular view!

Drive from Port Arthur to Kate’s Berry Farm

Take a leisurely 2-hour drive up Tasmania’s charming countryside and coastline from Port Arthur to Kate’s Berry Farm, as part of your Tasmania 10 day self-drive itinerary. 

Along this route, y ou will pass by Maria Island , an optional excursion along your road trip. Here you will find a desolate island with native wildlife and convict settlement ruins. A cruise around the island allows you to see sea lions and plenty of marine life. 

If you decide to stop here, make sure to add an additional 0.5 – 1 day onto your itinerary. 

The most popular tour of Maria Island leaves Triabunna at 8:30AM and runs for a duration of 8 hours.

Kate’s Berry Farm

Indulge your sweet tooth at Kate’s Berry Farm, a delightfully quaint destination on your Tasmania suggested itinerary. Enjoy scrumptious scones served with rich clotted cream and homemade mixed berry jam . 

If time allows, stroll around the farm and pick your own fresh berries , an ideal fun-filled activity for your Tasmania itinerary 10 days for families.

Devil’s Corner Cellar Door

Don’t miss a visit to Devil’s Corner Cellar Door, a highlight of the best Tasmania itinerary. 

Sample a selection of their acclaimed cool climate wines , savoring each sip while taking in the stunning views of the Hazards mountain range, a unique sensory experience for your Tasmania trip itinerary.

I really enjoyed their wine tasting paddle and I picked up a bag of truffle potato chips (crisps) for the road.

Late Lunch at Freycinet Marine Farm

Dine at Freycinet Marine Farm for a late lunch during your drive around Tasmania itinerary. Known for their fresh, locally-sourced seafood , this eatery provides a perfect chance to sample the island’s rich marine bounty, especially their oysters and mussels.

My mom and I each had a dish of Tasman salmon with coleslaw , which was a nice light but satisfying meal before hiking in Freycinet National Park.

About Freycinet National Park

Freycinet National Park, a gem in the network of Tasmania’s national parks, features rugged pink granite peaks , pristine white beaches , and crystal-clear turquoise waters . 

It’s also home to Wineglass Bay , consistently ranked among the world’s top 10 beaches , a must-visit location in your Tasmania tour itinerary. 

Where to Stay near Freycinet NP

Top Pick | Freycinet Resort Luxury | Edge of the Bay Resort Mid-Range | Freycinet Lodge Economy | BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet

Hike to Wineglass Bay Lookout

Undertake a moderately challenging hike to Wineglass Bay Lookout as part of your 10 day tour of Tasmania. This rewarding trek, integral to any Tasmania suggested itinerary 10 days, offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Freycinet Peninsula, a sight that makes the effort worthwhile.

The hike follows a well-beaten track at a consistent incline for about 1.5 hours . 

Alternative Option: Wineglass Bay Cruise

To experience Wineglass Bay up close and personal and for those who would prefer not to hike, opt for a Wineglass Bay cruise from Coles Bay (with an option to include lunch) for something more leisurely.

The cruise-only option runs for 4.5 hours and departs at 9:45AM . So if you want to include this I would add a half day to your itinerary for Tasmania. 

Alternatively, you can start the morning of day 6 with the cruise and skip the stops in Bicheno and St. Helens making your way straight to the Bay of Fires in the afternoon.

The most popular Wineglass Bay Cruise

Cape Tourville Lighthouse

Visit Cape Tourville Lighthouse, a historic beacon offering sweeping views over the Freycinet National Park . It’s a top spot for winter whale watching during your Tasmania in winter itinerary. The surrounding coastal walk is an added bonus, providing even more fantastic views.

When we visited, it was very windy . Keep a windbreaker on you and hold on to your hat! The boardwalk circling the lighthouse was incredibly scenic.

Dinner in Coles Bay

Cap off day 5 of your Tasmania itinerary 10 days from Hobart with an early dinner at Geographe Restaurant in Coles Bay. Here, you can sample a variety of dishes, all created from locally sourced ingredients . It’s the ideal way to end an adventurous day on your Tasmania travel itinerary 10 days.

For something more romantic and upscale , opt for a reservation at Saffire Resort’s Palate Restaurant. 

Cozy up in your luxurious Coles Bay accommodation for the night.

My favourite and memorable Freycinet hotels

Day 5 of Self-Drive Tasmania 10 Days Itinerary – Top Attractions

• Tasman Bay National Park Lookout
• Devil’s Corner Winery
• Freycinet National Park
• Wineglass Bay Lookout

Tasmania Itinerary 10 Days: Day 6

• Day 6: Bay of Fires

Travel from Coles Bay to Bicheno (30 minutes)

Start your Day 6 of the best Tasmania itinerary with a scenic drive from Coles Bay to Bicheno. 

The road winds through Tasmanian countryside, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes along the C302 and A3 highways .

• Bicheno Blowhole

Next stop on your Tasmania 10 day tour is the Bicheno Blowhole . A natural sea fountain formed due to coastal erosion, this popular attraction can create a spectacular display when the waves are high. It’s an exciting spot for photography and a must-visit destination on your Tasmania road trip 10 days.

Lunch at Lobster Shack

Just a 2 minute down the road from Bicheno Blowhole, visit the Lobster Shack for lunch, a well-loved food joint in Bicheno . Known for its fresh and flavorful seafood , especially the lobster, it’s a perfect spot to refuel on your Tasmania road trip planner. I had the lobster roll and it was delicious.

Don’t forget to treat yourself to an ice cream from Van Diemen’s Land, they’re renowned for their creamy, flavorful scoops made with Tasmanian dairy.

Drive from Bicheno to St. Helens (1 hour)

Continue your Tasmania 10 day self-drive itinerary with a one-hour drive from Bicheno to St. Helens. This leg of the journey takes you through some of Tasmania’s most scenic landscapes , making the drive an experience to cherish on your 10 day Tasmania road trip.

We stopped many times along this route to take in the beautiful rugged coastline and have a few quick beach walks. So if you are like us, give yourself some grace time.

If you need a pick-me-up, grab a coffee from Swims East Coast Coffee in Scamander .

Explore St Helens Conservation Area

Upon arrival in St Helens, spend early afternoon exploring the St Helens Conservation Area. Take the bush walk to Beerbarrel Beach or for something a bit more adventurous you can tackle the Peron Dunes . St Helens is also home to a great fish and chips shop right on the water called Skippers, a tasty stop along your north east Tasmania itinerary. 

If you’d prefer to spend more time exploring Bay of Fires, head straight to your accommodation in Binalong Bay , drop your bags and head out to the conservation area. We stayed in a great home with views of the entire bay – stunning!

Along the coastal drive from Binalong Bay to Bay of Fires, make sure to leave time for a beach walk along one of the many pristine white sand stretches . A great spot to have a dip in the clear azure waters on my Tasmania suggested itinerary.

I loved my peaceful Binalong Bay accommodation

About Bay of Fires

The Bay of Fires, known for its vibrant orange lichen-covered rocks , is a place of remarkable natural beauty. This gem of your Tasmania 10 day self-drive itinerary stretches from Binalong Bay in the south to Eddystone Point in the north. 

The area was named by Lonely Planet as the world’s hottest travel destination in 2009. This is truly a must-see on your Tasmania road trip itinerary 10 days.

Where to Stay near the Bay of Fires

Top Pick | Pelican Point Villa Boutique | Bayview Lodge Mid-Range | Anchor Wheel Motel Economy | Georges Bay Apartments

Binalong Bay

Top Pick | Bay of Fires Bush Retreat Boutique | Binalong Beach Cottage Mid-Range | Sea Eagle Cottage Economy | Bay of Fires Seachange

Explore Bay of Fires Conservation Area

Next on your Tasmania 10 day tour, spend time at Cozy Corner and The Gardens, two stunning locations within the Bay of Fires. Cozy Corner ‘s secluded beach is perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll, while The Gardens , with its granite outcrops and colourful lichen , is ideal for photo ops. 

Don’t miss these destinations on your Tasmania self drive 10 day itinerary.

Dinner in Binalong Bay

End your day with dinner in Binalong Bay to cap off day 6 of your Tasmania itinerary 10 days from Hobart. There is only one restaurant offering dinner in Binalong Bay – Meresta . Enjoy a meal overlooking the stunning bay, as you look forward to more experiences on your drive around Tasmania itinerary.

Day 6 of 10 Day Tasmania Self Drive Itinerary – Top Attractions

• St. Helens Conservation Area
• Bay of Fires – The Gardens & Cozy Corner

Tasmania Itinerary 10 Days: Day 7

Day 7: Launceston (Cataract Gorge)

Travel from binalong bay to launceston with optional stops.

Day 7 of your Tasmania self drive 10 days itinerary commences with a scenic drive from Binalong Bay to Launceston. 

This part of your Tasmania 10 days itinerary is a beautiful route, filled with beautiful countryside and quaint little towns. We stopped in Derby for a lunch break and grabbed a burger from Trails Espresso.

The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours , but with stops included, you’ll want to allocate a good portion of your day to this journey.

• Bridestowe Lavender Farm

Your Tasmania 10 day trip won’t be complete without a stop at the enchanting Bridestowe Lavender Farm . The sight of endless lavender fields stretching out to the horizon is quite mesmerizing. 

You can also explore their distillery, enjoy lavender-infused food, beverages and ice cream (yum!), and shop for lavender products in their gift shop. My mom picked up some lavender oil to bring back to Canada.

Optional: Stop at Clover Hill Winery for a Cheese Board

Your Tasmania suggested itinerary can also include an optional stop at Clover Hill Winery. This esteemed winery is recognized for its exceptional sparkling wines . Pair your wine tasting with a gourmet cheese board for a quintessential Tasmanian gourmet experience, a perfect complement to your Tasmania road trip itinerary.

• Cataract Gorge Cruise or Walk

Spend your late afternoon at the Cataract Gorge where you will explore the unique natural formation just minutes from central Launceston. Opt for a leisurely Cataract Gorge cruise along the Tamar River into the Gorge, or take a walk along its scenic trails. 

If you’d rather opt to get your legs moving after a long day in the car, the walk into Cataract Gorge was well worth it. The moderately challenging stroll will take approximately 2 hours to complete on a 5km loop. 

Where to Stay in Launceston

After a nice dinner in the harbour, end your day in the heart of northern Tasmania, Launceston. 

This charming city is teeming with grand Georgian buildings, excellent dining venues, and culture-filled galleries. As part of your Tasmania 10 day itinerary, book your stay at one of the many boutique Launceston hotels in the centre of downtown ( The Verge is a good pick).

Or opt for a rural retreat resort in Tamar Valley to get an early start to your self-drive winery tour the next morning.

Best central boutique hotels in Launceston

Top Pick | Hotel Verge Boutique | Peppers Silo Mid-Range | The Dragonfly Inn Economy | Auldington Hotel

Day 7 of your 10 Day Itinerary for Tasmania – Top Attractions

Tasmania itinerary 10 days: day 8.

Day 8: Tamar Valley Wine Tour

Full-day tamar valley wine tour.

Continue your Tasmania 10 day tour on Day 8 in the Tamar Valley, Tasmania’s leading wine-producing region . The region is known for cool climate varietals like Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. 

The Tamar Valley Wine Route is clearly marked, making it easy for self-drive visitors if you so choose.

We decided to take the day off driving and put our winery visits in the hands of an experienced guide and we are very happy with our decision. I took this full-day Tamar Valley Wine Tour that starts at 11AM. They provide complimentary pick up from your hotel anywhere in Launceston.

My recommended wine tour of Tamar Valley

The tour ends around 5:30-6PM just in time for a leisurely dinner.

With over 30 wineries nestled amongst picturesque landscapes, it’s a haven for wine lovers on along a Tasmania road trip 10 days adventure. I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Day 8 of 10 Day Tasmania Driving Itinerary – Top Attractions

• Winery Tour through Tamar Valley (Self-drive or guided)

Tasmania Itinerary 10 Days: Day 9

Day 8: Cradle Mountain National Park

Drive to cradle mountain national park with optional stops.

Day 9 of your Tasmania self drive 10 day itinerary begins with a drive from Launceston to the magnificent Cradle Mountain National Park. This roughly 2.5-hour journey weaves through some of Tasmania’s most beautiful landscapes. 

Be prepared to make a few stops along the way, whether to admire a stunning vista or explore a charming country town like Sheffield (check out the murals!). This stretch of your Tasmania road trip planner promises to be an adventure on its own.

Today will be the longest and most jam-packed day of your 10 days in Tasmania, so please get an early start .

Optional: Stop along the Tasting Trail from Launceston to Sheffield

Your Tasmania trip itinerary is not just about visual splendours; it’s a gastronomical adventure too. Along your route, take a detour on the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. A collection of farmers’ markets, artisan producers, and wineries, the trail offers a feast of local delicacies. 

One noteworthy stop is Ashgrove Cheese , where you can taste their award-winning cheeses.

About Cradle Mountain National Park

Cradle Mountain National Park is a jewel in Tasmania’s crown and a must-include in any best Tasmania itinerary. Renowned for its striking landscapes, ranging from alpine heathland , and ancient rainforests to the iconic Cradle Mountain itself, the park is a paradise for nature lovers. 

The park is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area , and it teems with a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Where to Stay in Cradle Mountain (optional additional night)

Top Pick | Cradle Mountain Hotel Boutique | Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge Mid-Range | Cradle Mountain Highlanders

• Hike around Dove Lake

One of the most rewarding experiences in your Tasmania 10 day self drive itinerary is the hike around Dove Lake. The well-marked trail offers breathtaking views of Cradle Mountain and the surrounding wilderness. 

The 6km loop is reasonably flat (do expect a few small elevation climbs) and can be comfortably completed in 2-3 hours . Be sure to capture the famous boat shed , an iconic spot along the track. 

Logistically, you will need to park your rental car at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre , purchase your ticket or show your park pass and board the shuttle. The shuttle with make multiple stops within the Cradle Mountain National Park including a final stop at Dove Lake (the most popular stop). Here is where you will start your walk.

My mom and I had a bit more time on our hands so we got off at the Ronny Creek shuttle stop to spot wombats and boy did we ever! These cute furry balls are easy to spot along the Ronny Creek path. 

Another highlight for us was the easy walk along the Enchanted Walk trail .

Evening Drive from Cradle Mountain to Strahan

If you have longer to spend in Tasmania than this 10 day itinerary, you can opt to spend longer in the park and grab yourself a luxurious Cradle Mountain retreat (this is what we did!). There is so much to explore here, especially for avid hikers and trail walkers and it’s nice to spend a night or two in nature.

For purposes of hitting all the highlights of Tasmania within 10 days though, you will be spending the evening travelling to Strahan – a 2 hour drive .

Once you’ve dropped your bags at your Strahan accommodation , make sure to get some much needed rest since day 9 of this itinerary for Tasmania has been chock full.

Day 9 of 10 Day Tasmania Driving Itinerary – Top Attractions

• Tasting Trail (optional)
• Cradle Mountain National Park
• Spotting Wombats

Tasmania Itinerary 10 Days: Day 10

Day 10: Strahan (Gordon River Cruise)

About strahan.

Strahan, often touted as one of the best wilderness frontiers in Tasmania , is a quaint harbour-side village nestled on the edge of the sprawling Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area . Its unique blend of history and natural beauty make it a must-visit location in any Tasmanian itinerary. 

The village is a gateway to the vast and untouched wilderness of the west coast, including the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park , home to the majestic Gordon River . This enchanting river can be explored through a serene cruise, a popular activity for visitors. 

Strahan is also renowned for the West Coast Wilderness Railway , a journey that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past, and the struggles and resilience of its early pioneers. 

In the heart of Strahan, you’ll find a selection of cosy cafes, artisan shops, and fine dining options. The village offers a perfect blend of Tasmanian hospitality and wilderness adventure, making your stay in Strahan an unforgettable part of your Tasmania 10-day self-drive itinerary.

Where to Stay in Strahan

Top Pick | Salt Box Hideaway Boutique | Franklin Manor Apartment | Aloft Boutique Accommodation Mid-Range | Strahan Village

Morning Gordon River Cruise

Start the last day of your Tasmania itinerary 10 days from Hobart with an unforgettable Gordon River Cruise . This award-winning cruise explores the pristine wilderness of the UNESCO-listed Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. 

As you glide through the calm, reflective waters of the Gordon River, make sure to take a moment to appreciate the vast beauty. I was so trigger-happy with my camera because of how insane the reflections were, but I needed to remind myself to just enjoy the experience. And truly, this experience was really beautiful and peaceful .

The knowledgeable guides offer fascinating and sometimes humorous insights into the region’s ecology and history. Remember to keep an eye out for the local wildlife.

You can choose to splurge on the upper deck seats , but we opted for the lower deck window seats which was the mid-tier experience. The buffet lunch that comes with your ticket is full of great Tasmanian seafood and products. 

I took this specific well-rated Gordon River cruise and loved it

The cruise leaves the harbour at 8:30AM sharp so you will return around 2:30-3PM. 

Since this is technically the last day of your Tasmania adventure , you can head straight to the Hobart airport to return your rental car and hop on your flight home, a 4.5 hour drive . Make sure to schedule your flight for later in the evening to account for travel time.

Day 10 of Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days – Top Attractions

• Gordon River Cruise

Alternative Day 10 of your Tasmania Itinerary (Option 1)

This option requires you to have a half day allocated to travel on day 11 in Tasmania back to Hobart from Strahan.

Walk to Hogarth Falls in Strahan

If you aren’t in a rush, after the cruise, take a leisurely walk to Hogarth Falls. Nestled within People’s Park in Strahan, this short and easy trail leads you through lush rainforest to the picturesque waterfall. The walk is a haven for birdwatchers, so keep your binoculars at hand. If you’re lucky, you might spot a platypus in the creek. 

The flat trail will take 40 minutes return.

This simple, serene experience is one of the highlights of a Tasmania 10 day self drive itinerary and is listed as one of the ‘ 60 Great Short Walks of Tasmania ’.

Stay in Strahan

If you have time to spare, end your day 10 in Tasmania at your accommodation in Strahan before making the 4.5 hour journey back to the Hobart airport the next morning . If you have an evening flight on day 11, opt to stop off for a short walk to the picturesque cascading Russell Falls.

Book your night’s stay in Strahan

Alternative Day 10 of your Tasmania Itinerary (Option 2)

This alternative day 10 option requires you to have a half day allocated to travel on day 11 in Tasmania back to Hobart from Mount Field National Park at mid day.

Drive to Mount Field National Park

For this optional ending to Day 10 on your itinerary, embark on the drive to Mount Field National Park, the oldest national park in Tasmania. The drive from Strahan to Mount Field is about 3 hours and is incredibly scenic. 

As part of your road trip Tasmania 10 days itinerary, this journey offers beautiful contrasts from the coastal beauty of Strahan to the verdant wilderness surrounding Mount Field .

Make sure to fill up your fuel tank before leaving Strahan since this route does not provide ample options for fuel stations. My mom and I made the embarrassing mistake of almost running out of fuel on this stretch of the itinerary.

Stay in Mount Field National Park

End your day 10 by nestling down in the serenity of Mount Field National Park. The Park offers various accommodation options, from well-equipped campsites to cozy cabins and lodges (some very cute options here that we really enjoyed).

Walk to Russell Falls (morning of Day 11)

Begin the extra day of your Tasmania road trip 10 days itinerary by visiting one of Tasmania’s most adored natural wonders, Russell Falls . A leisurely walk through towering tree ferns and moss-covered giants of the forest brings you to the base of this tiered–cascade waterfall . 

The walk wheelchair accessible and suits all fitness levels . I was so awe-struck by this waterfall (and I’ve seen a lot of waterfalls in my day!) that I stood there mesmerized by it for quite some time. 

It’s a sight to behold, especially after a good rainfall when it’s in full flow. A perfect inclusion in a Tasmania itinerary 10 days for families.

Optional: Horseshoe Falls

If you are up for a slightly more strenuous walk , the short path continues uphill to Horseshoe Falls. This cascading waterfall set amid the dense Tasmanian rainforest is well worth the extra effort (yes, there are several sets of stairs). 

Drive to Hobart Airport

Following your waterfall adventures, it’s time to make your way back to Hobart. The drive from Mount Field National Park to Hobart Airport takes approximately 1.5 hours , so ensure you allow plenty of time to return your rental car and check-in for your flight. 

The scenic drive is a fitting conclusion to your fly drive Tasmania 10 days adventure.

Depart Tasmania

And just like that, your incredible Tasmania 10 day self drive itinerary comes to an end. With memories of stunning landscapes , unique wildlife , rich history , and scrumptious local produce , you’ll depart Tasmania with a longing to return. 

Whether you were on a Tasmania honeymoon itinerary, a family holiday, or a solo adventure, the experiences and encounters in this amazing corner of the world are sure to stay with you forever – that’s definitely what happened to me!

2 Week Tasmania Itinerary Option

Based on my experience on my lap of Tasmania, I have put together a recommended 2 week itinerary for Tasmania. Generally speaking, you will see the same attractions as the 10 day Tasmania itinerary but have more time to enjoy them .

Options to extend your 10 day itinerary for Tasmania to 2 weeks:

• Stay one night in Cradle Mountain instead of driving to Strahan
• Stay one night on Bruny Island
• Stay an additional night in Freycinet for more hiking
• Stay an additional night in Bay of Fires for a beach day
• Stay one night near Mount Field National Park
• Explore Northwest Tasmania & Stanley for 1 – 2 nights

My recommended Tasmania 2 week itinerary based on my time on the island would be:

• Day 1 & 2: Hobart
• Day 3: Bruny Island
• Day 4: Port Arthur
• Day 5 & 6: Freycinet National Park
• Day 7 & 8: Bay of Fires
• Day 9 & 10: Launceston & Tamar Valley
• Day 11: Cradle Mountain National Park
• Day 12: Strahan & Gordon River
• Day 13: Mount Field National Park
• Day 14: Fly home

7 Days Tasmania Itinerary Option

If you only have a week in Tasmania, I recommend cutting Cradle Mountain National Park and Strahan with the Gordon River cruise from your trip.

Following the 10 day itinerary, instead of travelling onward from Launceston, you can head straight to the Launceston Airport to drop off your rental car and fly out from here.

Do note, there may be an additional fee to start and end your rental car contract in different locations .

• Day 7: Launceston & Tamar Valley

Detailed guide to a Tasmania east coast road trip

Best Time to Visit Tasmania

When planning your Tasmania self-drive itinerary 10 days long, one of the key considerations is the time of year. Tasmania, with its temperate maritime climate , offers unique experiences across all seasons. Here’s a breakdown:

Spring (September to November) – When I Visited

Tasmania blooms in spring , transforming the landscape into a colourful spectacle of wildflowers. 

This time is ideal for outdoor activities , such as hiking in Cradle Mountain NP and exploring the Tamar Valley. Note that the weather can be a bit unpredictable , so pack layers. Spring could be an excellent time for your Tasmania east coast itinerary.

I completed my Tasmania driving itinerary in November and it was really lovely weather. Yes, you will get a few cloudy days and some days where you will need a warm jacket to break the wind but overall the weather was great and sunny for our trip to Tasmania.

Do note, that the hike around Dove Lake in Cradle Mountain was very chilly (around 3°C) with blustery winds and rain and my mom and I really regretted not bringing warmer layers for this specific activity.

Summer (December to February)

Summertime is when Tasmania sees the highest tourist influx , thanks to long, sunny days and warm temperatures – perfect for a Tasmania 10 day self-drive itinerary. You can enjoy the stunning beaches of Bay of Fires or go on a wine tasting tour. 

Summer also sees numerous festivals, like Taste of Tasmania. 

Autumn (March to May)

Autumn in Tasmania is a sight to behold, with hues of red, orange, and gold blanketing the landscape . 

The mild climate makes it perfect for exploring the outdoors. Also, with fewer tourists around , you might have some iconic spots, like Wineglass Bay, almost all to yourself in your Tasmania trip itinerary.

Winter (June to August)

For those who don’t mind the cold , a Tasmania winter road trip offers a unique charm. Snow-dusted landscapes , roaring log fires, and winter festivals, like the Dark Mofo, add to the island’s allure. 

Winter is also a great time to visit the museums and galleries like MONA.

To sum up, there’s no definitive best time for your Tasmania 10 day tour. It depends on your preferences, be it warm beach weather or cosy winter vibes, bustling festival season or peaceful off-peak exploration. 

No matter when you choose to visit, Tasmania’s natural beauty and cultural experiences promise a memorable adventure.

Tasmania 10 Day Itinerary FAQ

Is 10 days enough for tasmania.

A 10-day road trip around Tasmania can be quite comprehensive, allowing you to experience a vast range of what the island has to offer. From exploring Hobart’s history and culture to hiking in the renowned Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, 10 days gives you a solid introduction to Tasmania.

Can you Drive around Tasmania in 10 Days?

Absolutely. A Tasmania 10 day self-drive itinerary is a popular choice among travelers. This timeframe lets you tour significant parts of the island, from the east coast’s breathtaking beaches to the rugged wilderness of the west coast. Always remember to allow time for unexpected detours and adventures!

Do I Need a Car in Tasmania?

While public transportation is available, having a car provides unparalleled flexibility to explore Tasmania. A car is especially beneficial if you plan to venture beyond the main towns. It is essential for a Tasmania self drive 10 day itinerary, allowing you to discover hidden gems at your own pace.

How Do I Rent a Car in Tasmania?

Renting a car in Tasmania is straightforward. Numerous international and local car rental companies are available, particularly at airports in Hobart and Launceston. Online booking is typically the easiest way to secure a rental, especially during the peak summer season.

What Side of the Road does Tasmania Drive on?

Tasmania, like the rest of Australia, follows the left-hand driving rule. This is an important detail to remember when planning your Tasmania 10 day self-drive itinerary, particularly for those accustomed to driving on the right.

Is it Worth Going to Tasmania?

Absolutely, Tasmania is a treasure trove of unique experiences. Its diverse landscapes, fascinating wildlife, rich history, and vibrant food and wine scene make it a must-visit destination. A Tasmania road trip 10 days long allows you to soak in its stunning natural beauty and local culture.

Why is Tasmania so Famous?

Tasmania is famous for its untouched wilderness, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and extraordinary wildlife, including the iconic Tasmanian devil. Its rich convict history, charming colonial architecture, and burgeoning food and wine scene also draw visitors. The 10 day Tasmania self drive itinerary has become a popular way to experience these attractions.

How Do I Plan a Trip to Tasmania?

Planning a trip to Tasmania involves considering the time of year, deciding the duration of stay, choosing locations to visit based on interests, and booking accommodation and transportation. A 10 day Tasmania itinerary from Hobart or Launceston can cover most top attractions. Researching and booking activities in advance is also recommended.

Is Tasmania Expensive?

Tasmania can be a moderately priced destination, depending on your travel style. While certain experiences, like fine dining or guided tours, can be expensive, there are also plenty of free and affordable activities, such as hiking in national parks or visiting public museums. Accommodation costs also vary widely.

Do I Need a Visa for Tasmania?

Tasmania is part of Australia, so international travelers will need a valid Australian visa to visit. The specific type of visa depends on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended duration of stay. Please consult the Australian Department of Home Affairs website for the most accurate information.

Do I Need a Tasmania National Parks Pass?

Yes, a Tasmania National Parks Pass is necessary if you plan on visiting any of the national parks in Tasmania during your Tasmania 10 day self drive itinerary. The pass helps contribute to the maintenance and preservation of these stunning natural areas. You can purchase a pass online or at visitor centers.

What is the Best Way to Get Around Tasmania?

The best way to get around Tasmania is by car, offering flexibility and the ability to cover more ground. A Tasmania road trip planner would come in handy. There’s public transportation available in larger towns and cities, but services can be limited in rural areas and a car is required for some tourist attractions.

What Months are Best in Tasmania?

The best months to visit Tasmania for milder weather are during Australia’s spring and autumn, specifically October, November, March, and April. However, a Tasmania winter road trip can also offer unique experiences like winter festivals, snow-covered landscapes, and the possibility of seeing the Southern Lights.

What is the Best Month to Visit Tasmania?

February is often cited as the best month to visit Tasmania, as it’s typically the warmest and driest month. This makes it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring sites on your Tasmania trip itinerary. However, each season offers its unique charm and experiences, so it largely depends on personal preference.

What is the Coldest Month in Tasmania?

July is generally the coldest month in Tasmania, with average temperatures ranging from 3-12 degrees Celsius. Winter can be a magical time for a Tasmania 10 day tour, with snowy mountain peaks, crisp air, and fewer tourists. However, some attractions may have limited access, so be sure to plan accordingly.

10 Days in Tasmania Itinerary Conclusion

As we draw to a close on our 10-day Tasmania itinerary, I hope this extensive guide, a true best Tasmania itinerary, has inspired you to undertake your own Tasmanian adventure.

Whether it’s exploring the charming corners of Hobart, immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Bay of Fires, or journeying through history at the Port Arthur Historic Site, there’s something for everyone in Tasmania.

Armed with essential tips for renting a car, an understanding of the Tasmania National Parks Pass and insights on the best time to visit Tasmania, you’re now ready to undertake your own Tasmania road trip 10 days journey. Remember, Tasmania’s beauty is endless and diverse, thus our Tasmania itinerary 10 days offers just a taste of what you can explore in this incredible destination. 

The island awaits you, promising a trip full of unforgettable memories and breathtaking sights. 

Safe travels!

Tasmania Travel Planning Guide

► is it safe to rent a car in tasmania.

Absolutely, it is safe to rent a car in Tasmania. In fact, renting a car in Tasmania is the best way to see and explore the island .

You can make a very scenic lap of Tasmania in 10 days with your own rental vehicle. Plus public transportation between major tourist hubs in Tasmania is relatively limited.

► What is the best way to book my Tasmania accommodation?

I always use booking.com for all of my accommodation worldwide, and Tasmania is no exception. I stayed in some really epic places on my adventure around the island.

For more cozy apartment-style accommodation try VRBO (better and safer than Airbnb).

► Can you drink tap water in Tasmania?

Heck yes! Tasmania has some of the cleanest tap water in the world . Outside of a few small rural areas where this might not be the case, I really enjoyed drinking straight from the tap in Tasmania.

If you plan to do a lot of hiking in Tasmania, I recommend bringing my favourite self-filtering water bottle with you, just in case.

► What are the best day tours in Tasmania?

Taking a day tour in and around Tasmania is a must when visiting the island.

I highly recommend (and have been on!) the Tasman Island Cruise , the gourmet Bruny Island day tour , the Tamar Valley wine tour and the Gordon River Cruise .

More Tasmania Travel Guides

Ultimate East Coast Tasmania Itinerary Tips for Renting a Car in Tasmania Best Areas to Stay in Hobart Tasmania My Favourite Hobart Boutique Hotels Epic Day Trips from Hobart Bruny Island Day Tours from Hobart One Day Bruny Island Itinerary Tasman Island Cruise Guide Best Boutique Hotels Near Freycinet Top Bay of Fires Accommodation Beautiful Tamar Valley Winery Accommodation Best Boutique Hotels in Launceston CBD Epic Cradle Mountain Accommodation

Haley is the founder of the global travel blog, Haley Blackall Travel. She has travelled to 40+ countries across 5 continents over the last 15 years and is considered an expert in her field.

She loves to share honest first hand experience from her travels. Her goal is to help readers planning their next trip by providing in-depth travel guides and recommendations for her favourite boutique hotels, things to do and travel itineraries.

Haley focuses her expertise on countries such as Greece, Turkey, Italy, Costa Rica, Australia, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.

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