30 Best Places to Visit in Tasmania, Ranked
Visiting Tasmania? Be prepared to see unique landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, imposing mountains and more. Here are 30 of the best places to visit in Tasmania.
I would describe Tasmania as a theme park filled with natural attractions. It’s like an out-and-out nature circuit that will 100% satisfy any cravings you have to see the natural beauty of the world.
As simple as the title sounds – here are 30 of the best places to visit in Tasmania, ranked by yours truly.
1. Ben Lomond National Park
You won’t see Ben Lomond in many blog posts or lists of things to do in Tasmania, but don’t let this deter you from visiting this heavily underrated Tasmanian destination.
Best known for its aesthetic towering mountains, Ben Lomond operates as a quaint ski resort during winter months. The jewel in Ben Lomond’s crown, however, is Jacob’s Ladder, a spine-tingling drive that takes you through several hairpin turns until you reach the jaw-dropping summit.
2. Leven Canyon
Another criminally underrated Tasmanian destination, Leven Canyon is a structure that I would expect to see from somewhere like rural China or Taiwan.
What makes this place extra special is that it looks so different from all the other marquee destinations in Tasmania. It’s unique rock formation is dotted with lush greenery – scale your eyes all the way down, and you can witness a deep ravaging gorge. Tasmania is no stranger to tall, sweeping panoramas, and the Cruickshank Lookout, where you can get a good view of the Canyon, is no different.
3. Freycinet National Park
The Freycinet National Park is no stranger to the limelight, and its biggest drawcard is Wineglass Bay.
But Wineglass Bay’s picturesque twin coasts aren’t the only stars worth seeing – be sure to visit the Hazards, Honeymoon Bay, Cape Tourville Lighthouse, and do the (slightly dangerous) but totally worth it Mt Amos climb. Just be careful, as it does get pretty steep up there!
4. Cradle Mountain National Park
Cradle Mountain and its surrounds are nothing short of simply epic. I would even say that this area is borderline intimidating. The weather is notoriously unpredictable here (seriously, we thought we were getting clear skies in the summer and we got continuous snow!), but don’t let that stop you from marveling at Cradle’s glory.
If weather permits, make sure to do at least one hike in the area. We recommend trekking to Mount Campbell, Marion’s Lookout, the Dove Lake Circuit and, if you’re up for it, summiting Cradle Mountain as well.
There are easier walks too, such as the Enchanted Walk and the Cradle Valley Waterfall Walk.
5. Mount Wellington
Ah, this majestic mountain is the symbol of Hobart that watches over Tasmania’s most populated city. Much more than just serving as a dormant backdrop, Mount Wellington offers breathtaking views of Hobart city and beyond.
The best part? you’ll be up so high that it’ll feel like you’re floating amongst the clouds.
6. Liffey Falls
Tasmania is absolutely overflowing with pretty waterfalls (see what I did there?), but it can be difficult to know which ones are worth visiting. Liffey Falls is definitely one of the major waterfalls in Tasmania that you have to visit.
Liffey is actually made up of many waterfalls, but the final waterfall takes the cake. Flowing through multiple tiers, this tall and wide waterfall might just be Tasmania’s best.
7. The Nut
The Nut is a like a mini Uluru that sits happily on the North East coast of Tasmania. If you visit the small town of Stanley, you absolutely cannot ignore this humongous rock that almost takes up the whole town’s skyline.
It’s beautiful from below, but even better when you walk to the top and walk the circumference of this geological wonder.
8. Hartz Mountains National Park
Another underrated and underreported destination. Hartz Mountains National Park is actually only about an hour and a half’s drive from the capital city of Hobart, which makes taking on Hartz Peak a perfect day trip opportunity.
A little similar to Cradle Mountain (but different in the right ways), the weather here is also unpredictable and susceptible to snow. You’ll see calm lakes and grand peaks when you take a stroll around this scenic treat.
9. Three Capes Track
There’s a lot to write about the Three Capes Track and its history, but I’ll keep it brief. The Three Capes Track is a paid multi-day walk on the Tasman Peninsula that takes you through to Cape Pillar, Cape Hauy and Cape Raoul.
Completing the whole track will take you four days and three nights, and is actually relatively easy to finish despite the length of time. On the walk, you’ll see spellbinding basalt columns, windswept cliffs and clear views of the ocean.
If you’re more of a day tripper, Cape Hauy and Cape Raoul can be easily done in one day.
10. Bruny Island
Bruny Island has long been a favourite amongst day trippers from Hobart. Bruny Island is really two islands, consisting of North Bruny and South Bruny. This quaint island is the perfect summary of what Tasmania has to offer, all in one compact space: wildlife, green fields, awesome walks, unique geological formations and great seafood are all on display here.
Make sure to visit The Neck and The Arch to see some of Tasmania’s most distinguishable topography.
11. Champagne and Bridal Veil Falls
Located in Moina, Champagne Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are two heavenly waterfalls easily visited when in the Cradle Mountain area. The round loop will take you through both falls, and is suitable for walkers with almost any level of fitness.
Champagne Falls is a winding waterfall that trickles down green terrain, while Bridal Veil Falls, possibly the more striking of the two, is a tall and wide waterfall that cascades through multiple tiers, making it look like a bride’s veil.
12. Bay of Fires
The Bay of Fires is a wide-ranging coastal area that encompasses regions such as Binalong Bay and St Helen. Along the coast, there are many gorgeous beaches with fine white sands and clear, turquoise waters. I even heard tourists say that the beaches here were some of the best they’ve ever seen in the world.
What makes the Bay of Fires area so photogenic are the orange-splattered boulders that dot the coast. These boulders are covered in a bright hue of orange, giving the appearance that the boulders are ‘on fire’. Must visits are Cosy Corner, The Garden and Binalong Bay.
13. Hobart
Tasmania’s capital city is much more than a metropolitan stop. Hobart still manages to retain Tasmania’s home-grown feel, while having all the necessary things a good city should have. Hobart’s got hipster brunch spots, tranquil boutique stores and all-round nice people.
Make sure to also visit Hobart’s Pier to indulge in some of Tasmania’s finest food.
14. Port Arthur Historic Site
The Port Arthur Historic Site is Australia’s most famous convict site, and is one of the best places you can visit to learn about the nation’s storied convict history.
An admission ticket will get you a free introductory tour around the grounds, and a boat tour to some of the harder-to-reach places.
15. MONA
From its striking exterior to its mind-boggling exhibitions, MONA (the Museum of Old and New Art) is Tasmania’s most renowned museum.
It’s the epitome of new-age contemporary art on display, and many pieces will leave you scratching your head. Still, it’s all part of the fun, isn’t it?
16. Tasman Peninsula
The Tasman Peninsula is another beautiful coastal area that boasts many unique and aesthetic sites. The landscape here is long, rugged and wild, making it a perfect road trip destination.
Make sure you visit sites such as the Tasman Arch, Remarkable Cave, Tessellated Pavement, and Devil’s Kitchen.
17. Launceston
Tasmania’s second liveliest city is an up-and-coming buzzing place that you will probably pass through sometime during your trip to Tasmania. Launceston is busy, but still possesses that classic Tassie charm.
18. Mount Field National Park
Mount Field National Park is a classic day trip out of Hobart. This National Park is especially popular with families and those who have restricted mobility, as the walks here are easy and suitable for everyone.
Three waterfalls present themselves as Mount Field’s calling cards – Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Lady Barron Falls, and there is a loop track that allows you to see all three. We think Russell Falls is definitely the best-looking out of the three.
19. Tamar Valley
The Tamar Valley is Tasmania’s most famous wine region, and is conveniently located right next to Launceston. Sit back and enjoy a glass of champagne against a gorgeous backdrop – you’ve earned it!
20. Cataract Gorge
Cataract Gorge is only a 15-minute walk away from Launceston city’s center, but you would be forgiven for thinking that you had travelled much further to get here. Gorge-ous indeed, Cataract Gorge is the perfect meeting spot for families who want to enjoy a relaxing, quiet day. A chairlift, a swimming pool and hiking options are all available at this multi-purpose city getaway.
21. Fossil Bluff
Fossil Bluff is a unique rock formation that has been eroded by crashing waves over centuries, and it sits on the northwest coast of the island.
22. Boat Harbour Beach
Boat Harbour Beach is another turquoise-tinged beach worth visiting, sitting on the northwest coast of the island.
23. Mersey Bluff Lighthouse
Devonport is one of Tasmania’s most populated cities, and the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse has been a long-time favourite with locals and visitors alike.
Cheerfully coloured in red and white stripes, the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse offers panoramic views and is the perfect spot to catch a sunset.
24. Devils @ Cradle
You can’t leave Tassie without seeing its most famous furry friends, the Tasmanian Devil.
This animal sanctuary is great because its conveniently located in the Cradle Mountain area. For $30, you can also attend an informational night tour that lets you meet not only Tassie Devils, but also quolls and some of Tassie’s other unique animals.
25. Mole Creek Caves
The Mole Creek Caves are some of Tasmania’s most unique caves. Great to visit if you’ve never seen underground caves before.
26. Narawntapu National Park
Beaches, pleasant strolls and kangaroos. The Narawntapu National Park offers a beautiful, relaxing day out.
27. Maria Island
Maria Island is without a doubt worth visiting if you have time. However, getting here can be quite time consuming. You’ll have to drive to the small town of Triabunna, and then catch a ferry to the island.
The island doesn’t have any cars, so you should probably rent a bike if you want to explore. Maria Island’s beautiful Painted Cliffs cannot be missed on a visit to the island.
28. Strahan
Strahan has been described as the final frontier and the site described as a convict’s “Hell on Earth”. Here, you’ll get a sense of true isolation, as if you really are on the edge of the world.
Make sure to take embark on a Gordon River Cruise and visit Hogarth Falls.
29. Cascade Brewery
The Cascade Brewery is Tasmania’s oldest operating brewery and the perfect place to go for a casual nibble and day drink. It doesn’t hurt that the building’s gothic architecture is really cool as well.
30. Bicheno
Bicheno is a quaint seaside town with quality views and quality seafood. Take a brief walk to the top of Whaler’s Lookout to see a panorama of the town. The Bicheno Blowhole is also a fun visit.
Other Places
St Columba Falls
Montezuma Falls
Bridestowe Lavender Estate – visit only when in season
Gordon Dam
Salamanca Market – visit only on Saturdays 8:30-3:00pm
Table Cap Tulip Farm – visit only when in season
Grindelwald
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary