3 Day Tasmania Itinerary: Southern Tasmania
The view from Cape Queen Elizabeth walk lookout.
Is three days in Tasmania enough? We believe so. Our South Tasmania road trip itinerary will ensure you’re not missing a moment. You'll love it.
For this itinerary, rent a car and pick it up from the airport. We have a guide on the best companies here. If you're arriving via Spirit of Tasmania and driving down, well, you already have the vehicle you need.
MONA (Museum of Old and New Art)
Summer Kitchen Cafe
Tahune Airwalk
Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs
Dinner in North Hobart
Morning: Salamanca Market
Begin your southern escapade at Hobart's iconic Salamanca Market. Every Saturday, the historic Salamanca Place transforms into a bustling marketplace. Wander through the vibrant stalls, each echoing tales of Tasmanian heritage. From handcrafted wooden artefacts to the tantalising aroma of freshly baked goods, the market is a sensory delight. And for the foodies, you won't be disappointed - food tasting everywhere! The best things to see are often changing from week to week. There are a few iconic staples, but we'll let you explore this on your own!
Choose to either have lunch here at the markets, or move on to MONA for a feed! There are several eateries to choose from.
If you’re wanting to have a picnic on Mount Wellington this evening, now is a good time to grab some snacks from the market or Salamanca Fresh supermarket nearby.
Travel Time to Next Location: 30 minutes
Midday / Afternoon MONA (Museum of Old and New Art)
You really won't find another place like MONA anywhere in Tasmania, perhaps even Australia. The exhibits, both provocative and enlightening, challenge conventional notions of art and culture. From mummies to modern installations, MONA promises an artistic journey like no other. If you have children, please be aware that there are some mature sights throughout the museum. Best to call in advance to check where these are located.
If you finish up quickly, we recommend to fill in any extra time with a visit to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.
Travel Time to Next Location: 45 minutes
Evening: Mount Wellington
We love exploring Mount Wellington in the soft evening sunlight. You'll want to drive up to the summit rather than just The Springs to take in the stunning views. Head to the summit and watch Hobart light up as dusk sets in. Pack warm clothes! Yes, even in summer. If you're really adventurous, bring a blanket, portable speaker and a small picnic. Go off the beaten path, find a rock to pull up on away from the observation platform and enjoy the views all to yourself! Do respect the environment if you do this. Leave no trace!
Enjoy the rest of the evening however you see fit, here are a few ideas:
Dinner in Sandy Bay or Salamanca.
Intencity Arcade next door to Village Cinemas, Hobart.
Grab an ice cream from The Creamery and roam around the Hobart waterfront (Princess Wharf area).
Morning: Tahune AirWalk
Travel Time to Tahune Airwalk from CBD: 1 hour 30 minutes
As you make your way to Tahune Airwalk, stop by Summer Kitchen Bakery nearby Huonville (a short 5 minute detour). They have both pastries and coffee. We recommend having a light breakfast prior and grabbing a snack here!
From here, press on and awaken the adventurer within as you head to the Tahune AirWalk. Suspended amidst the treetops, this walkway offers panoramic vistas of the Huon River, dense forests, and distant peaks. The gentle sway of the suspension bridge, combined with the chirping of native birds, makes for a surreal experience.
Travel Time to Next Location: 1 hour 20 minutes
Afternoon: Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs
Descend into the subterranean wonder of Hastings Caves. The intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites, sculpted over millennia, are a testament to nature's artistry. After exploring the caves, unwind at the nearby thermal springs. The warm waters, surrounded by ferns and the gentle hum of the forest, offer a tranquil retreat. Don’t forget to bring your bathers!
Travel Time to Next Location: 1 hour 40 minutes
Evening: Dinner in North Hobart
Many people spend their nights at the Hobart waterfront. Instead, we're taking you to North Hobart to enjoy some of Hobart's finest cuisine. If you haven't booked in advance, feel free to try somewhere else if you'd prefer!
Our recommendations are:
Morning: Adventure Bay
Travel Time to Kettering from CBD: 35 minutes
Drive out to Kettering and embark on a ferry ride to Bruny Island. You will need to pay for the fee over (this covers you both ways). Upon payment, you'll also receive a free map. Neat! Line up as instructed, and enjoy the ferry ride across.
Click here for Bruny Island ferry times and to purchase tickets early.
Travel Time to Adventure Bay after ferry: 40 minutes
Once you arrive, your first stop is Adventure Bay. With its golden sands and azure waters, it's the very picture of serenity. The bay, with its rich marine life, is also a hotspot for dolphin and whale sightings.
What to do in Adventure Bay:
Adventure Bay Beach
Afternoon: Lighthouse or Cape Queen Elizabeth
If you're planning on visiting Cape Queen Elizabeth, drive to The Neck Lookout. If you plan on visiting the lighthouse, skip The Neck for now and visit on your way back to the ferry.
Travel Time to Cape Bruny Lighthouse: 50 minutes.
Travel Time to Cape Queen Elizabeth: 20 minutes.
1. Cape Bruny Lighthouse
Standing tall at the southern tip of Bruny Island, the Cape Bruny Lighthouse is an iconic beacon of history and maritime significance. As the second oldest extant lighthouse tower in Australia, it has illuminated the waters for 158 years, guiding countless mariners safely along the treacherous coastline. Constructed in 1838, the lighthouse was built by convict labour using locally quarried dolerite. The panoramic views from the lighthouse are breathtaking, offering a 360-degree vista of the vast ocean, rugged cliffs, and the pristine wilderness of South Bruny National Park. The lighthouse stands as a testament to Tasmania's rich maritime history and the enduring spirit of its early settlers.
A guided tour of the lighthouse typically lasts about 20 minutes, but it's recommended to allocate at least 1-2 hours for the entire visit to explore the surrounding areas and enjoy the views.
2. Cape Queen Elizabeth Walk
The Cape Queen Elizabeth Walk is a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes of Bruny Island. Starting from the Big Lagoon car park, the trail meanders through coastal heathlands, pristine beaches, and towering dunes.
As you traverse the trail, you'll be treated to stunning views of The Neck, Adventure Bay, and the distant Tasman Peninsula. The highlight of the walk is the Mars Bluff Arch, a natural rock formation carved by the relentless waves. The trail offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty, wildlife spotting, and a touch of adventure, making it a must-do for nature enthusiasts.
The walk is approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) return and takes about 4 hours to complete at a moderate pace. You can simply walk to the arch and return if time doesn’t allow (2 hours and 7km return for this section). There are some small sand dunes here as well!
Bruny Island Cheese Company
Conclude your day at the Bruny Island Cheese Company. Dive into a cheese-tasting session, savouring the rich textures and flavours of artisanal cheeses. And perhaps, pick a few for your journey back.
Check opening hours and plan accordingly if you don’t want to miss it.
Evening: Dinner in Hobart
You've been in Hobart for two nights now, go and have some fun! Try a meal from another location we mentioned for Day 2, or visit our Facebook Group and ask others what they've enjoyed! You can visit our Facebook page here!
For a three-day holiday, it's going to be best to have the same accommodation the whole way through. If you're giving yourself another day on either side, we still recommend staying in one location for the holiday rather than jumping around locations like some travellers like to do. We have three recommendations:
Salamanca Inn
Salamanca Inn is a charming hotel located in the heart of Hobart, offering guests a blend of comfort, convenience, and Tasmanian hospitality. The inn is surrounded by vibrant cafes, restaurants, and unique shops, making it a prime location for those wanting to explore the local culture and cuisine. You have plenty of options around for dinner in the evening.
Hotel Grand Chancellor
Hotel Grand Chancellor is a prominent hotel situated on the waterfront in Hobart, providing guests with stunning views and easy access to local attractions. The hotel combines elegance with modern amenities, catering to the needs of all types of travellers. The rooms are tastefully decorated and equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, fitness centre, and swimming pool, making it a versatile option for those seeking relaxation and recreation. The hotel’s central location and impeccable service make it a popular choice among visitors to Hobart.
Mövenpick Hotel
Mövenpick Hotel is a renowned international hotel chain, and its establishment in Hobart continues to uphold its reputation for quality and service. The hotel is known for its stylish interiors, high-quality amenities, and culinary excellence. Located in a prime area, Mövenpick Hotel offers easy access to Hobart’s main attractions, shopping districts, and dining options. The rooms are designed with a focus on comfort and convenience, ensuring a pleasant stay for guests. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction sets it apart, making it a preferred accommodation for discerning travellers.
A few final thoughts on the essentials for this road trip:
Check out our packing guide to make sure you have everything you'll need while in Tasmania.
View our guide on the best car rental companies to save more for your holiday.
Visit the South Tasmania region page for even more things to do if you're here for longer!
Three days in South Tasmania might seem fleeting, but with this itinerary, you'll delve deep into its heart. From historic precincts to natural wonders, from gourmet delights to artistic marvels, South Tasmania is a mosaic of experiences. So, as you reminisce about your journey, one question lingers - when's the next trip?
FAQs
Is 3 Days enough for Tasmania?
We believe that 3 days in Tasmania is worth the visit. Will you see everything? Unfortunately not. Will you get a taste of Tasmania? Definitely. Hopefully, you’ll be planning your next visit before you leave the state!
How do I see Tasmania in only 3 days?
If you’re planning on seeing the whole state in 3 days, you’ll be driving most of the trip. A full lap of Tasmania can be as long as 1500km, and this is along roads with speed limits of 60km/h. That being said, we’d recommend a minimum of 7 days to see the whole state.
Discover more for your Tasmanian adventure below!
The best distilleries in Greater Hobart include Lark, Callington Mill, Spring Bay, Sullivans Cove & Old Kempton. We also mention a few bottles you might like.