Things to Do In Hobart without a Car

Welcome to our guide on exploring the enchanting city of Hobart without the need for a car. Whether you’re a curious local or an eager visitor, Hobart unfolds a tapestry of attractions easily accessible by foot or public transport. From historic landmarks to gastronomic delights, this vibrant city caters to diverse tastes. In this blog post, join us on a journey through the best activities, attractions, and hidden gems Hobart has to offer—all without the hassle of driving or parking.

Immerse yourself in the allure of Hobart from a car-free perspective, and set forth on a memorable adventure through this captivating city that promises to leave a lasting imprint on your travel experiences.

Why Go Car-Free in Hobart?

Money Saving: Navigating Hobart without renting a car saves a lot of money. You can use that money for more fun experiences. Whether you take the bus or walk, you save money by not renting a car.

Easy Moving: Avoid the headache of parking by walking Hobart’s cobblestone streets. The city is easy to walk which saves time parking. You can explore freely without worrying about driving.

Local Connections: Walking allows you to really connect with Hobart’s locals. You can have spontaneous chats, experience the pulse of the city, and make connections beyond just visiting. Immersing yourself in the culture is easier car-free.

Top Things to Do Without a Car

Salamanca Market

Every Saturday, the bustling Salamanca Market offers an abundance of local food, art, crafts, and more. Families can wander the stalls sampling fresh produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods, and Tasmanian wine. Let the kids pick out handmade toys and souvenirs. Grab a snack and find a spot to people-watch. With over 300 stalls stretching along the waterfront, there’s something for everyone at this lively market, easily accessible without a car.

Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG)

At TMAG, families can explore interactive exhibits that bring Tasmania’s history and art to life. Kids will love the Hands-On room where they can dress up, touch objects, and create art. Take a self-guided tour to see artifacts like Aboriginal tools, colonial relics, and contemporary Tasmanian art. Families can also participate in museum events like art classes, tours, and school holiday programs for a more enriching experience—all conveniently reachable without a car.

Cascade Brewery

Tour Australia’s oldest brewery to experience the brewing process first-hand. Families can sample award-winning beers in the tasting room or relax with a drink and meal in the gardens. Take the kids on an engaging factory tour to see how Cascade makes some of Tasmania’s most iconic beers. With beautiful historic architecture amidst lush gardens, Cascade Brewery makes for an enjoyable day out—accessible without the need for a car.

Mount Wellington

For majestic views, challenge yourself to hike to the top of Mount Wellington or take a shuttle bus. At the peak, families can enjoy a picnic while soaking in panoramic views over Hobart. Stop at the Pinnacle Lookout for photo ops with views extending all the way to the Tasman Peninsula. Take scenic bushwalks around the lower slopes, perfect for kids. With an abundance of wildlife and diverse vegetation, Mount Wellington promises a day of outdoor adventure—easily reachable without a car.

Mount Nelson Lookout

The Mount Nelson Lookout is an easy 5km bus ride from the city center. Families can soak in stunning 180-degree views over Hobart, the Derwent River, and beyond. Let the kids play at the park and reserves nearby before enjoying a picnic while watching the yachts sail by down below. As one of Hobart’s most loved vantage points, Mount Nelson Lookout offers a relaxing escape surrounded by natural beauty—accessible without a car.

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

Just 2.3km from the city center, these stunning gardens are perfect for a family outing. Stroll through diverse flora collections and lush landscapes. Kids will love exploring the Subantarctic Plant House and Tropical Glasshouse. Pack a picnic and let the little ones run around the expansive lawns. Families can also join guided walks and educational programs to learn more about Tasmania’s unique flora—all conveniently reachable without a car.

Battery Point Sculpture Trail

Take a scenic walk through historic Battery Point and discover Hobart’s past through art. The sculpture trail features work from local artists, each with a story from Hobart’s colonial era. Families can admire the sandstone architecture as they follow the trail. Stop for a sweet treat at a local cafe or shop for antiques and handicrafts as you immerse yourself in Hobart’s fascinating history—easily accessible without a car.

Cascades Female Factory Historic Site

Step back in time by exploring this former female convict site dating back to 1828. Families can join guided tours of the grounds and original buildings to learn about the hardships faced by the female convicts. Costumed re-enactments and interpretive displays bring the history to life. Special programs allow kids to gain a hands-on perspective of this significant heritage site located a short distance from the city center—reachable without a car.

Mona Ferry

Cruise up the Derwent River for 11km to MONA in Berriedale. Families can soak up views of Hobart’s waterfront before arriving at the eccentric art museum. Wander through the subterranean galleries and unusual exhibits. Kids can express their creativity in the family-focused art space. After exploring MONA, relax on the ferry ride back while the kids nap after a day immersed in art—conveniently reachable without a car.

Bruny Island

A cruise or ferry ride makes reaching Bruny Island easy without a car. Families can spot seals, dolphins, and seabirds along the way. On the island, go beachcombing, bushwalking, and wildlife spotting. Visit cheesemakers, oyster farms, berry farms, and chocolate shops for the freshest local produce. With rugged coastal scenery and quiet country roads perfect for cycling, Bruny Island promises an engaging family adventure—accessible without a car.

Convict Penitentiary Chapel Historic Site

Gain insights into Australia’s convict history through interactive displays at this former chapel and penitentiary. Kids can touch the prisoners’ archway, go inside a solitary confinement cell, and hear stories of convict life. Families can join dramatized performances depicting everything from church services to floggings. With costumed interpreters and hands-on activities, the chapel brings Hobart’s past to life in an engaging way—easily reachable without a car.

Mona Museum

Dedicate a day to contemporary art and culture at the fascinating MONA museum, 11.4km from the city center. Wander through the unusual subterranean galleries exhibiting often provocative works. Kids can express their own creativity in the family-focused creative space. Families can refuel at the on-site wine bar and restaurant with fresh local fare before catching the ferry back. With ever-changing exhibits, MONA enthralls art aficionados of all ages—accessible without a car.

Port Arthur

Step back in time by exploring Port Arthur’s sprawling complex of over 30 historic buildings that encapsulate Tasmania’s convict history. Families can join guided walking tours to hear tales of the harsh penal life. Costumed interpreters and interactive displays bring the past to life. Kids will love exploring the ruins, going inside solitary cells, and hearing ghost stories. With places to picnic and nature trails to hike, Port Arthur makes for an engaging day trip perfect for curious young minds.

Farm Gate Market

Just over a mile from the city center, the Sunday Farm Gate Market is a family favorite. Wander through over 60 stalls of freshly harvested produce, artisan products and delicious food trucks. Let the kids sample juicy berries, sweet apple cider donuts and piping hot churros. Pick up some picnic supplies like bread, cheese and fruit. With live music and tables to dine at, the market exudes a lively community atmosphere the whole family will love.

North Hobart

North Hobart’s funky neighborhood vibe makes it perfect for a day out with friends. Browse the eclectic shops offering vintage clothing, antiques and handcrafted goods. Refuel with brunch at one of the quirky cafes serving smashed avocado toast drizzled with olive oil and thick, creamy lattes. Catch a flick at the historic State Cinema or take in some live music. With its creative energy and cosmopolitan charm, North Hobart entices and delights.

Salamanca Arts Centre

With galleries, workshops, and a packed calendar of events, the Salamanca Arts Centre fosters Hobart’s thriving arts scene. Families can attend art exhibitions featuring local Tasmanian artists across varied mediums from sculpture to photography. Kids will love getting their hands messy in art classes learning pottery or painting. Music and dance performances mean there’s always something new happening at this cultural hub.

Stroll Around Battery Point

Meander through the picturesque streets of Battery Point, one of Hobart’s oldest neighborhoods. Families will love gawking at the impeccably preserved Georgian and Victorian-era homes built long ago by early settlers. Pop into boutique shops and galleries tucked into historic row houses. Stop for a sweet treat at a cozy cafe on Hampden Road. With so much to admire around every corner, an amble through Battery Point is a MUST.

Hobart Waterfront

No trip to Hobart is complete without visiting the bustling harbor waterfront located just steps from the city center. Families can soak in views of fishing boats coming and going while seagulls circle overhead. Enjoy fish and chips on the pier or let the kids burn off energy at the playground. Watch street performers and musicians entertain passersby throughout the day. With yachts bobbing in the harbor and Mount Wellington towering behind, Hobart’s waterfront captures the city’s essence.

Lark Distillery

Get a behind-the-scenes look at whisky production at Lark Distillery just north of the city center. Friends can sample a flight of award-winning single malt whiskies and enjoy the warm, convivial atmosphere. Chat with the expert staff to learn the nuances of Tasmania’s burgeoning whisky scene. Gather around barrels and copper stills during an in-depth guided tour of the distillery to see traditional techniques still used today to create this complex spirit.

Tasman Bridge

Spanning the Derwent River, the striking Tasman Bridge is a Hobart landmark. Families can take a relaxing stroll along its pedestrian walkway, admiring panoramic views across the water back towards the city. Pause to reflect on the bridge’s turbulent history from its construction in the 1960s to near destruction in 1975. With its graceful arched design stretching over 650 meters, the Tasman Bridge is an engineering marvel.

View Of Hobart From Mount Wellington

While reaching the summit requires effort, families can also take a shuttle bus up Mount Wellington for sweeping views. At 1,271 meters high, the peak looks out over forests, cliffs and Hobart city far below. Have a simple picnic while breathing in the crisp mountain air. Let the kids expend energy while you soak in the natural splendor all around. Looking out across the landscape from Mount Wellington puts Hobart’s beauty into stunning perspective.

Wineglass Bay

Though not in Hobart, a day trip to Wineglass Bay on the Freycinet Peninsula is well worth the scenic drive. Friends can hike to this world-famous white sand bay with its vibrant turquoise waters that look almost tropical. Photograph the stunning natural curvature of its shoreline that resembles a fine wine glass. Swim and snorkel in the protected crystal clear cove. With picture-perfect scenery, Wineglass Bay showcases Tasmania’s extraordinary coastal beauty.

South Hobart

Meandering through historic South Hobart reveals some of the city’s oldest architecture. Terraced sandstone cottages dating to the 1840s line the streets. Poke around antique stores and second-hand bookshops in refurbished heritage buildings. Relax over coffee and house-made cake in one of South Hobart’s many cozy cafes. With traces of yesteryear around every corner, South Hobart transports visitors back to Hobart’s early village days.

Walking Tours

Opting for a guided walking tour lets you experience Hobart alongside knowledgeable guides. The Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre offers several themed walks like ghost tours and culinary tours. Or choose a private guide to customize your tour. Families with kids may appreciate a faster-paced tour that keeps young ones engaged. Tours make Hobart’s history come alive with entertaining stories and insights you’d otherwise miss.

From the Airport to Hobart Without a Car

Upon arriving at Hobart International Airport, seamless transportation options await for those embarking on a car-free exploration of the city.

Taxi or Uber: For a swift and direct journey to the city center, taxis or Uber rides from Hobart International Airport take approximately 20 minutes. While convenient, solo and budget-conscious travelers may find more economical alternatives.

Skybus Transfer Service: A cost-effective and dependable choice, the Skybus transfer service caters well to solo travelers or pairs arriving without a car. This efficient service not only ensures an affordable commute but also allows passengers to experience key landmarks along the route. The Skybus app enhances the travel experience by providing easy access to essential information, including timetables and bus stops. Tickets for the Skybus can be effortlessly purchased through the app, online, or directly on board the bus.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Hobart offers a wealth of enriching experiences that can be enjoyed without the need for a car. From vibrant markets to historic sites, stunning natural landscapes, and cultural attractions, the city presents a diverse tapestry of adventures accessible on foot or by public transport. Embracing a car-free exploration of Hobart not only offers financial savings and convenience but also fosters a deeper connection with the local community and the city’s rich heritage. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, immersing yourself in the allure of Hobart without a car promises to create lasting memories and a truly authentic experience of this captivating city.