About Tasmania
Tasmania is Australia's island state, a wild and beautiful destination where pristine wilderness meets rich colonial history. Separated from mainland Australia by the Bass Strait, Tasmania offers dramatic landscapes ranging from the rugged peaks of Cradle Mountain and the stunning white sands of Wineglass Bay to the mysterious depths of the Tarkine rainforest. Hobart, the charming capital, blends historic sandstone buildings with a vibrant arts scene centered around the revolutionary MONA museum. Food lovers will delight in Tasmania's exceptional produce—from fresh seafood and artisan cheeses to world-class cool-climate wines and whisky. The island's convict history comes alive at UNESCO World Heritage sites like Port Arthur, while outdoor enthusiasts can hike the famous Overland Track or spot unique wildlife like Tasmanian devils and wombats. With its clean air, uncrowded spaces, and a palpable sense of tranquility, Tasmania provides an unforgettable escape into nature and culture.
Things to do in Tasmania
Ile Des Phoques and Maria Island Cruise and Walk Day Tour with Lunch
From A$295
5.0 (265)
Cook Like A Pro in Taroona
From A$155
5.0 (26)
Peaks, Falls & Furry Locals: Mt. Field & the Derwent
From A$1,040
5.0 (23)
Tasmania 6 Day East Coast Tour
From A$2,495
5.0 (23)
Hobart Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Richmond Village Tour
From A$90
5.0 (21)
2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour / Hobart return / Inc. Accommodation
From A$445
5.0 (18)
Cruise Ship - Port Arthur Shore Excursion - Hobart
2 day Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay
From A$405
5.0 (17)
2 Day Tasmanian Highlights Tour-Hobart Highlights & Bruny Island
From A$305
5.0 (13)
90 minute Cape Raoul Cruise and Port Arthur Historic Site entry
From A$190
5.0 (13)
LARK Distillery Tour
From A$69
5.0 (11)
Evening Dinner Cruise
From A$155
5.0 (10)
Coal River Valley Wine Tour
From A$225
5.0 (9)
Alpaca Farm Tours with Toffeemont
From A$55
5.0 (8)
1 Hour Distillery Tour & Tasting in Turner Stillhouse
From A$35
5.0 (8)Places to visit in Tasmania
Travel Tips for Tasmania
Getting Around
Renting a car is the most flexible and recommended way to explore Tasmania, especially for reaching remote national parks and coastal drives. Major rental companies operate at airports and cities. Public buses (Metro Tasmania) serve Hobart, Launceston, and some regional routes, but services are limited in rural areas. Intercity coaches (like Tassielink and Redline) connect main towns. Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber) are available in Hobart and Launceston. For getting to Bruny Island or Maria Island, passenger ferries are essential. Popular navigation apps include Google Maps and Maps.me for offline use. Consider guided tours for specialized experiences like wildlife spotting or wilderness hikes.
Best Time To Visit
December to March (summer) offers the warmest weather (15-25°C), long daylight hours, and vibrant festivals like the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race finish and MONA's summer festival. This is peak tourist season. Autumn (April-May) brings stunning foliage, milder temperatures, and fewer crowds, ideal for hiking and food tours. Winter (June-August) is cold and perfect for experiencing snow-capped mountains, winter festivals, and cozying up in lodges, though some tracks may be closed. Spring (September-November) sees blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, with pleasant but unpredictable weather.
Local Customs
Tasmanians are generally friendly, relaxed, and down-to-earth. Casual dress is acceptable in most settings, but smart-casual attire is appreciated at finer restaurants. Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service in restaurants (10% is customary) and for taxi drivers. Respect the environment—follow 'Leave No Trace' principles in national parks. When visiting Aboriginal cultural sites, show respect and do not remove any artifacts. Punctuality is valued for appointments and tours. Engaging in conversations about local produce, nature, and art is welcomed.
Safety Information
Tasmania is generally very safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in cities, especially at night. When hiking or exploring national parks, be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions—carry appropriate gear, inform someone of your plans, and stay on marked trails. Be cautious when driving, especially on winding rural roads and at dawn/dusk, due to wildlife hazards (like wallabies and wombats). There are no dangerous snakes that are common, but be aware of the highly venomous tiger snake and copperhead in bush areas; give them space. There are no common tourist-targeted scams, but be vigilant with personal belongings. Swimming at beaches should only be in patrolled areas due to strong currents and cold water.
Health Information
Tasmania has excellent medical facilities, with major public hospitals in Hobart (Royal Hobart Hospital) and Launceston (Launceston General Hospital). Private clinics are also available in urban centers. No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but routine vaccinations should be up-to-date. Travelers should have comprehensive travel health insurance. Be aware of ticks in bushland areas (which can cause allergic reactions or tick-borne illnesses) and protect against sun exposure due to strong UV rays. In remote wilderness areas, medical help can be hours away, so carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergencies. Tap water is safe to drink in urban areas.
Languages Spoken
English
Quick Facts
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
$
$
Timezone
Australia/Hobart +10:00 (GMT) or +11:00 during daylight saving (October to April)
Calling Code
+61
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
572,000
Area
68401 km²
Government
State government within the Commonwealth of Australia, with a parliamentary constitutional monarchy. Local governance is divided into 29 municipalities.
ISO Code
AU-06