Top 5 Things To Do In Hobart

The capital city of Australia’s island state of Tasmania, Hobart/Nipaluna offers a diverse range of exciting activities to turn your travels into a trip of a lifetime. From lush bush scenery to world-class wine, there is so much to discover hidden between the streets of this laidback city. In your Dollar rental car, you can venture around Hobart in no time at all, chasing adventure and creating unforgettable memories.

Famous for its top-class vineyards, visiting a Hobart winery is a must-do for both wine-lovers and anyone wanting to find comfort in the relaxing atmosphere of a vineyard. With its cool climate and sweeping open spaces that stretch out from Hobart’s surrounding region, fantastic wineries aren’t hard to come by in this city. Pooley Wines is a standout vineyard with a recognisable name all across Australia, and you can visit their winery easily from Hobart. About 25 minutes north of Hobart’s CBD, the cellar door is nestled into the hills, right beside the historic mansion that houses the Pooley family. You’ll certainly feel the warm hospitality of a family business on this outing. If you’re after another exceptional Tasmanian winery without wanting to venture too far from the city, Glaetzer-Dixon Family Winemakers is the perfect wine spot for you. Located just on the outskirts of the CBD, this urban winery stuns with a modern atmosphere, with the winemakers uniquely having made a home for their product inside an old warehouse.

One of the top five things to do in Hobart is pay a visit to the innovative museum of MONA. This Museum of Old and New Art is world-famous for its boundary-pushing art installations, all housed in a museum space that is itself a work of art. Catch the MONA ferry across the bay for the ultimate experience, watching Hobart stream past you as you make your way toward this haven of wonderful art. Once inside, traverse underground and deep into the earth and you’ll be greeted by maze-like rooms that feature art so crazy and creative that you might never have imagined it would exist. You can easily spend a whole day wandering around the hallowed halls of MONA, so if you are in need of refreshments or food to fuel you up, check out the outdoor dining area that features a bar, restaurant and cafe. 

An icon nestled into the heart of Hobart’s CBD, the Salamanca Markets in Battery Point are a must-visit if you’re in town on a Saturday. Taking place at the much-beloved Salamanca Place, these outdoor markets will amaze with a wide range of produce, gifts, hot food and crafts that are made in Tasmania. Wander throughout the stalls as the streets come alive with the hustle and bustle of locals and visitors filling the closed-off road, and take it slow as you browse the local makers’ stock. Situated right next to the harbour, the Salamanca Markets also makes for the perfect place to explore Hobart’s waterfront after you’ve perused the market stalls. The suburb of Battery Point is itself another top activity to do when you’re in Hobart. A sleepy seaside suburb that is adorned with heritage architecture and boutique shops and restaurants, wander around Battery Point’s streets and discover the fairytale quality of this quaint corner of the city. Explore the beautifully maintained green spaces tucked between the streets and visit the Narryna Merchant’s House museum to find out more about the treasured history of the area. If you find yourself in the area in the morning, make sure to make a pit stop at the reputable Jackman and McRoss Bakery - a gem in Battery Point’s crown of jewels.

There are few views in Hobart that are comparable to the sight you’ll see atop Mount Wellington/Kunanyi. Half an hour west of Hobart’s CBD, Mount Wellington soars above the city and provides both a stunning backdrop when you’re wandering around Hobart, and a great afternoon activity to stretch your legs. There are many different walking tracks to venture out on, like the Organ Pipes and Zig Zag tracks, as well as a range of boardwalks and lookout platforms where you can take in the picturesque views. This unique perspective on Hobart will make you fall even more in love with this postcard-perfect city. 

There’s plenty of exciting adventures that can be found all across Hobart in your Dollar rental car. From vineyards and museums, to markets, historic suburbs and majestic mountains, follow this guide to discover the top five things to do when you’re in Tasmania’s capital.