Want to experience Hobart without spending a fortune? No problem! There are plenty of things to do in Tasmania’s capital city that won’t break the bank. Here are ten suggestions for fun and cheap activities in Hobart.
1. Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
Head over to Australia’s second-oldest botanical gardens overlooking the River Derwent. Enter the big, beautiful iron gates of the Domain entrance and pick up a map to guide you. You’ll wander past spectacular sites like the Gatekeepers Cottage, the Lily Pond, the Conservatory, the historical walls, the Fuchsia House, and the French Memorial Fountain. It’s the perfect quiet place to sit, relax and catch up on your studies.
2. Salamanca Market
Looking for an opportunity to mix with the locals? Head to Salamanca Place on a Saturday and take a stroll through the famous Salamanca Market. Surrounded by beautiful historic sandstone buildings, the busy market is packed with local stallholders selling Tasmanian fruit, vegetables, food products, homewares, souvenirs and handmade goods.
3. Battery Point
For a taste of true Tasmanian history, head to Battery Point, an historic town and precinct established way back in the 1800s. With its winding streets and beautiful colonial architectural surrounds, Battery Point still has much of its old-time charm. Remember to follow the Battery Point Historic Walk, which takes you past significant historic sites including Kelly’s Steps, Arthur Circus, Battery Square, and Narryna, a great heritage museum.
4. Constitution Dock
Constitution Dock sits adjacent to Salamanca Place and Battery Point, so it’s the ideal third stop on your Hobart adventure. On Boxing Day, this dock hosts the exciting end of the incredibly famous Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. Every other day, it’s perfect for boat-spotting and shopping in the nearby pavilions. There are plenty of mouth-watering restaurants nearby, which serve up the freshest local seafood.
5. Mount Wellington Summit
Mount Wellington, or kunanyi as it’s also know, is a beautiful natural wonder located only 20 minutes away from the city centre. Atop Mount Wellington’s peak, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Sleeping Beauty, Collins Cap and Cathedral Rock mountains. Because of Mount Wellington’s height, you’ll also enjoy panoramic views of the South West Wilderness, Bruny Island, Hobart and the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. Don’t forget your camera – the views are very impressive!
6. Free bicycle rides
Hobart Bike Hire offer bike rentals from $30 a day, allowing you to cycle around the attractions on Hobart’s eastern shore. You’ll receive free maps of Hobart so you can plan your route (for example, take in the cultural sights around Bellerive in Hobart’s east, and also visit the lovely Bellerive Beach), along with a free lock so you can secure your bike if you want to stop somewhere.
7. Seven Mile Beach
Take a dip at the tranquil Seven Mile Beach, a long stretch of sand that seems secluded, but is super close to the city. It’s only 15km east of Hobart! It’s a hidden treasure that is almost never crowded, and is a favourite spot amongst locals.
8. Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery – Tasmania’s leading natural, cultural and heritage organisation – is another must-do. Immerse yourself in art and natural history at the museum and gallery, which features collections of fascinating objects and stories. Also, entry is completely free! Check out the Museum’s What’s On page to check upcoming exhibitions and events.
9. State Cinema
Catch a movie at the State Cinema, an iconic Hobart building that’s over 100 years old. Unlike a multiplex cinema, the cinemas here are smaller, more intimate, and surround you with gorgeous historical architecture. After your movie, grab a coffee at the restaurant and peruse the State Cinema’s beloved bookstore.
10. Mt Nelson Signal Station
Catch a bus from the city directly to Mt Nelson Signal Station. It was established in 1811 as the first signal station constructed in Tasmania. At the station, you’ll learn fascinating facts about colonial history whilst taking in breathtaking views of Hobart and the Derwent River. You can also picnic nearby at the BBQ area with friends, or pick up freshly poached eggs, cakes or homemade muffins at the nearby Signal Station Brasserie Cafe.
