The best road trip in Tasmania itinerary (2024 guide)

Are you looking for the ultimate road trip Tasmania itinerary?

The small Australian island is jam-packed full of enchanting waterfalls, mountains screaming out to be climbed and many of Australia’s best trails to explore.

You’ll probably feel a bit overwhelmed at all of the things to do in Tasmania at first; which is where this Tasmania road trip itinerary comes in!

This ultimate Tasmania itinerary accounts for the very best national parks, mountains, lakes and culture in the Australian state.

Whether you’re on a backpacking trip around Australia or visiting Tasmania with your family, there’s plenty for all sorts to enjoy in the Australian state.

How to prepare for this Tasmania road trip itinerary

This Tasmania itinerary begins in Devonport and loops around in a circle; this is presuming you’ll be taking the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne with your own vehicle.

If you have your own car already, this is the most cost-effective option, despite the high ferry cost!

If you don’t have a car, fear not, lots of companies in Hobart offer great rental deals.

If you’re planning on flying into Tasmania, just begin this Tasmania itinerary in Hobart and follow the loop around from there!

This itinerary covers three weeks in Tasmania, but there aren’t many days off!

If you want to explore at a more leisurely pace, I’d recommend four weeks in Tasmania.

If you have less time, there are shorter itinerary options at the end.

These obviously do not cover Tasmania in as much detail, but they focus on smaller areas which enable you to see as much as possible in a shorter time.

Are you ready for the ultimate road trip in Tasmania itinerary?

Let’s go! First things first, book your overnight ferry from Melbourne to Devonport. We pick up this itinerary in Devonport the next day!

Devonport

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Suggested time – half a day

Arrive in Devonport bright and early!

There isn’t a huge amount to do in Devonport apart from some pretty beaches and a few cafes.

If you’re feeling energised and ready to take on Tasmania after some caffeine, move straight to stop 2…

Latrobe

Suggested time – half a day

Known as The Platypus Capital of the World’, Latrobe is a popular place to spot the rare mammal.

Take part in a platypus tour, where you will be taken to the best spots to spot the animal, or just try and spot one in the wild yourself!

Spend a night between Latrobe and Sheffield.

Either find a camp spot using WikiCamps or search for hotels in Latrobe or Sheffield by clicking here.

Sheffield

Suggested time – half a day

Sheffield is a distinctly unique little town.

In a quaint community spirit unlike anywhere else, the town is adorned with murals depicting its history.

Find out the story of all of the village’s local characters by going through its street art.

There are also quirky cafes aplenty and a really interesting antique shop to browse.

Liffey Falls

Suggested time – half a day

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Your first nature stop on your Tasmania road trip itinerary!

Liffey Falls are gorgeous waterfalls up a gravel road.

A short walk from the car park to the falls ensures that they are very secluded, and the roaring water makes for a perfect picnic backdrop!

Also on site is a ‘big tree’ – spoiler – it’s huge.

Stay the night in Bridport, or at a campsite between Liffey Falls and Mount William. Check out hotels in Bridport by clicking here

You could also check out Launceston, the perfect place for a weekend away, en route.

If you’re after a day or two of relaxing and unwinding, this city is ideal for you!

Mount William

Suggested time – half a day

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Drive Eastwards towards Mount William in the North Eastern corner of Tasmania.

Mount William is an easy 45-minute hike (one way) to a summit that offers amazing views of bushland and coastline.

And if you’re lucky, you might catch one of these cuties in the car park…

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Bay of Fires

Suggested time – 1.5 days

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Head South from Mount William to the Bay of Fires.

Named in this way because Western settlers saw fire coming from the beaches as they approached, the area is known for gorgeous sandy coves and azure waters.

Binalong Bay was my favourite little town in the area, with amazing tropical-feeling beaches and a small town community.

Things to do in the Bay of Fires

  • Eddystone Point Lighthouse – this 37-meter high-lighthouse has saved many ships over its 130-year history. It offers scenic views and interesting architecture.
  • Walk along the white sand beaches and swim in the clear waters
  • The Gardens Conservation Area – a 20 km self-drive will take you past some of the areas most scenic spots of coastline
  • See the Red Rocks – even though they look fiery, they’re not actually how the region got its name (it did so from Aboriginal people lighting fires along the coast). But the red rocks have become symbolic of the area and are a must-visit in the Bay of Fires.
  • Halls Falls – Located 45 minutes west of Binalong Bay, Halls Falls is an easy but secluded hike through Eucalyptus trees.
  • Grants Lagoon – This is situated just behind Binalong Bay and is somewhat sheltered from the elements – the lagoon water is often a few degrees warmer than the actual sea water.

Find a campsite on WikiCamps, or if you prefer solid walls, check out the best hotels in Binalong Bay by clicking here.

Freycinet National Park

Suggested time – 1-2 days

One of the islands’ most iconic photographs is that of Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park and it will be a highlight of your 3 weeks in Tasmania.

It’s a beautiful beach scene that looks – quite literally – like a wine glass, with beautiful blue seas on each shore.

Things to do in Freycinet National Park

  • Mount Amos – This mountain offers a panoramic view of the surroundings and the bay itself. You can also hike to the beach of Wineglass Bay, where you can enjoy a dip in the cool waters as a reward!
  • Cape Tourville Lighthouse – This is a 20-minute walk, and offers panoramic vistas of the national park at the end
  • Honeymoon Bay Beach – it’s every bit as picturesque as it sounds, Honeymoon Bay Beach is perfectly tranquil and absolutely stunning
  • Sleepy Bay – This fantastically named bay is a short 10-minute walk, taking you past some spectacular lookout points. Head down to the very end to see a beautiful view over the bay.
  • The Hazards – viewable from outside the park, The Hazards are four granite mountains that change colour during sunrise and sunset – they’re every photographer’s dream.

Stay the night in a campsite near Freycinet National Park or in one of the hotels – click here to view them.

Tasman Peninsula

Suggested time – 1-3 days

Onwards to the Tasman Peninsula!

There are three capes you can traverse here. If you’re an avid hiker and have the time, you could do them all – if not, select the best one for you by using the details below.

Walks on the Tasman Peninsula

  • Cape Pillar Hike – this two day long hike is very long – 30 kms in total, and the first day 22 kms must be covered as the only place to camp (unless you are with a tour) is 8 kms from the start/ finish point. The views at the end are spectacular – you’re right on the edge of the cape and can see for miles. However, if you don’t like long hikes, this may not be for you.
  • Cape Raoul – this 14 kilometre hike takes you through dense jungle and eventually peters out to oceanic views and sheer cliff. Great for those who like day hikes and speedy hikers, the edge of Cape Raoul will give you views to Hobart, Bruny Island and other spots of the Tasman Peninsula.
  • Cape Hauy – starting from Fortescue Bay, this 8 kilometre hike is ideal for those who like spectacular views without huge distances. With gorgeous ocean and land views from the start, this cape walk is a beautiful way to see the dramatic coastline of the Tasman Peninsula.

Other things to do on the Tasman Peninsula

  • The Eaglehawk Tessellated Pavement – the sheer power of the sea has caused this rock surface to be eroded to form a resemblance to a mosaic – it’s a really unique natural attraction!
  • The Tasman Arch – this arch is another wonderful natural phenomenon that’s well worth checking out
  • The Tasman Blow Hole – At high tide, this blow hole can create a huge gush of water; don’t stand too close!

There are plenty of free and paid-for campsites around the Tasman Peninsula or hotels in the area. Click here to browse.

Port Arthur

Suggested time – 1 day

Located within the village of Port Arthur is one of Australia’s most significant historic sites. It tells the story of the convict settlers of the area and was also the site of the worst mass murder in Australian history. It’s an area steeped in history that’s vital for understanding  Australia’s convict past.

Things to do in Port Arthur

  • The historical sites tell the story of Port Arthur as a convict site. Be sure to go on a historical tour with the informative guides.
  • Port Arthur ghost tours tell some of the haunting tales of spooky happenings in the jail.
  • The Totem Pole and Candlestick Walk is an 8.8-kilometre bush walk with the opportunity to climb up rock formations at the end.
  • Check out the Maingon Bay lookout, which is one of the best oceanic views on the peninsula.
  • If you’re visiting in November, December or January, check out the Port Arthur Lavender Farm for some amazing smells and great photo opportunities!

You’ll be able to stay in the same place as you did the night before or head to Hobart when you finish your day out and stay in a hotel or campsite there.

Hobart

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Suggested time – 2-4 days

It’s time to touch down in Tasmania’s capital!

Hobart is a hidden gem, a wonderful city bursting with culture and holding immense beauty. It’s an essential to visit, even if you only have 1 week in Tasmania.

The Best Things to do in Hobart

  • The Docklands – on a sunny day these look wonderfully idyllic and inviting, with colourful boats and ramshackle coffee shops lining the edge.
  • The Tasmania National Museum and Art Gallery – this free entry museum contains a few interesting exhibitions – including a really informative one about bushfires – and a section about Aboriginal Tasmania which is well worth a look.
  • MONA – this museum may be what makes Hobart famous, and although it’s kind of pricey to get in, it’s a museum unlike no other, challenging you to really think about life and the world through art.
  • Salamanca Place – this charming area of Hobart is home to Georgian architecture housing galleries, restaurants and boutiques – perfect for an afternoon’s exploration. On Saturday mornings (8:30am- 3pm) the Salamanca Markets are hosted here, which sell local produce and hand made gifts.
  • Derwent River Cruise – this historic cruise will tell the tale of the city of Hobart and how it came to be.

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You can’t visit Hobart without catching a sunset or sunrise at Mount Wellington.

One of my favourite bits of travel advice ever was “if you can see the top of Mount Wellington when you get to Hobart, stop whatever you’re doing and get the hell up there”. (Thanks David, a volunteer at the Devonport tourist information centre).

It will be a highlight on your entire road trip in Australia. Drive right up to the peak and be AMAZED at the view spreading out beneath you. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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If you’ve got a bit of time, try to catch sunrise as well!

Accommodation in Hobart

Even if you’re camping around Tasmania, Hobart is a great spot to recharge in some city-centre accommodation.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Hobart.

Budget: Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse is a hostel that will change your opinion of budget accommodation. Each dorm is intricately furnished, and there is a lovely common area and BBQ to enjoy as well as balconies with mountain views. If you don’t want to stay in a dorm room you can opt for a private bunkroom or queen bedroom. On-site is free parking, free luggage storage and free WiFi. Click here for rates and book today.

Mid-Range: Riverfront Motel & Villas is perfect for families or those wanting outdoor-based accommodation without camping. Providing a mix of motel-style and villa accommodation, it is located close to MONA. Laundry facilities, a BBQ and a restaurant and bar are on site. Click here for rates and to book today.

Luxury: Ibis Styles Hobart is a great luxury spot within the city. On site is a swimming pool and a fitness centre and the rooms are decorated in a state-of-the-art style. It’s in a great location to Hobart centre and Salamanca Market. Click here for rates and to book today.

Do you want to find out more about what you can see in Hobart? Check out this 3 days in Hobart itinerary.

Bruny Island

Suggested time 1-2 days

Next up, hop on a boat from Hobart to Bruny Island.

Bruny Island offers coastal walks, scenic views and great food and wine. There’s nothing quite like the scenery of the island, and there’s an adventure here to suit everybody.

Things to do on Bruny Island

  • Head to the gorgeous beaches of the island
  • Visit the Bruny Island lighthouse, the second oldest lighthouse in Australia, for an amazing sunset view
  • Sample some of the amazing foods and wines of the island by touring some of the farms and shops – the Bruny Island Berry Farm is a firm favourite, and there are lots of vineyards on the island selling amazing wines.
  • Take one of the many walking trails on the island

Stay a night or two on Bruny Island. There are campsites on WikiCamps or click here to look here for accommodation

Mount Field

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This national park, perfect for practising your travel photography, excels in waterfalls and tall trees – with a 2.5-hour loop walk taking you to the best of both!

Best Spots to Visit in Mount Field National Park

  • Russell Falls
  • Horseshoe Falls
  • Lake Dobson for a scenic, quiet swim – and for downhill skiing in winter!
  • Tall Trees Walk – a 30-minute circuit starring the world’s tallest flowering plant

There are plenty of accommodation options and campsites near the national park. Click here for hotels near Mount Field.

Lake St Clair

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Beautiful Lake St Clair is the deepest lake in Australia.

There are many hikes you can do from the national park, and it’s also where the overland track, a 60-kilometre odyssey through wild Tasmania finishes.

The Best Hikes in Lake St Clair National Park

  • Mount Rufus is an ever-changing hike with a beautiful peak, great views and varied terrain making the walk back really interesting!
  • Shadow Lake is well worth a walk around
  • Of course, relaxing by the lake and enjoying some of the shorter walks is also a great way to take in Lake St Clair

There are hotels around the national park that are great for a night’s stay – click here to view them. Alternatively, you could camp near the park. 

Strahan

Heading to the West Coast, Strahan is a port town known as one of the country’s most beautiful seaside towns.

It’s a somewhat sleepy place, but there are a few things to do in Strahan that make visiting the West Coast town worthwhile.

Things to do in Strahan

  • Take a boat trip to Sarah Island, which was once a convict prison and has lots of history.
  • Artisan shops in the town
  • Huge sand dunes (perfect for boarding!) along a rugged beach
  • The Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park which Strahan serves as a gateway to. This is Tasmania’s greatest wilderness and is a fantastic place to hike in.

For hotels in Strahan, click here

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain may be the highlight of your Tasmania road trip itinerary.

Its jagged peaks have certainly inspired many an explorer to the island, and heaps of people dream about scaling the mountain one day.

Things to do in Cradle Mountain National Park

  •  If you’re a keen hiker or climber, the Cradle Mountain summit hike should be number one on your list – it is without a doubt one of the best hikes in Tasmania. It wasn’t something I was planning on doing. But for some reason, on the day, I found myself on the top of that thing. It was the scariest experience of my life. I’m so glad I did it, but it’s really not for the faint-hearted (it was much scarier than Huashan, the supposed most dangerous mountain in China). You have been warned!
  • Marion’s Lookout Walk enables you to see Cradle Mountain and snap an iconic feature – without actually climbing up the thing. It’s a bit of a climb to reach this lookout, as you can also see some of the park from a birds-eye view.
  • Dove Lake Circuit is an easy walk with a view of Cradle Mountain looming above. This is a great walk for those who don’t like hiking but do love nature.

If you’re camping, there are plenty of spots, both free and paid, around the National Park.

If you’re looking for a room, you could stay in Somerset.

Stanley

Now it’s time for the North Coast!

Stanley is a gorgeous little seaside town where everything looks astonishingly perfect. It’s small and quiet, but it’s a wonderful place to explore to have a bit of contrast from all the hikes.

If you’re spending 2 weeks in Tasmania or longer, it’s a nice addition to your road trip itinerary.

Things to do in Stanley

  • Climb up The Nut, an ancient volcanic crater.
  • Treat yourself at one of the many ice creameries lining the quaint high street.
  • If it’s warm, the beach is lovely, with calm, kind of warm waters and beautiful views. It’s one of my favourite swim spots in Australia!

Here are some more amazing things to do in Stanley.

Searching for somewhere to stay in Stanley? There are campsites near the town or check here for the best accommodation deals in Stanley itself.

 North Coast

Suggested time – 1 day

Finish your Tasmania road trip by checking out some of the North Coast highlights. These can be encompassed in a Stanley – Devonport drive.

Best Parts of the North Coast

  • The beautiful beaches of Boat Harbour Bay
  • The town of Bernie
  • Penguin, where if you’re lucky you might see fairy penguins darting on shore at dusk.

If you’ve got another night until your boat back to the mainland, find a campsite on WikiCamps or check out the best places to stay in Devonport.

Devonport

Back to where you began! Get to Devonport in good time for your Spirit of Tasmania return to Melbourne this evening.

Shorter Tasmania Road Trip Itineraries

“This all sounds great… but I just don’t have the time!” I hear you cry.

Have no fear.

Here are some itineraries for 3 day, 5 day, 7 day, 10 day and 2 week trips to Tasmania.

You can still feel the Tassie magic, even with a shorter amount of time!

Tasmania Road Trip 3 Days

If you only have 3 days in Tasmania, you’ll have to focus on a specific area of the state. Here are my recommendations:

Option One – from Devonport or use alternative day 3 for from Hobart

  • Day 1: From Devonport, drive south to Cradle Mountain – or drive north from Hobart. Spend a day hiking in the national park.
  • Day 2: Explore Lake St Clair National Park.
  • Day 3: See Stanley and the Nut, as well as the north coast en route back to Devonport.
  • Alternative Day 3: Drive to Mount Field National Park. Spend the day exploring the park before heading back to Hobart.

Option Two – from Devonport or reverse for from Hobart

  • Day 1: Visit the Bay of Fires.
  • Day 2: Head to Freycient National Park and hike to one of the Wineglass Bay viewpoints. Then start driving south to Hobart
  • Day 3: Spend the morning looking around Hobart. Then head back to Devonport to catch the ferry.

Tasmania Road Trip 5 Days

Option One

  • Day 1: Head to Binalong Bay and the Bay of Fires. Spend the day exploring here.
  • Day 2: Spend the day in Freycient National Park
  • Day 3: See the sights of Hobart
  • Day 4: Day trip to Bruny Island
  • Day 5: Visit Port Arthur

Option Two

  • Day 1: Head to Cradle Mountain and spend the day in the National Park
  • Day 2: Head to Lake St Clair National Park and spend the day hiking
  • Day 3: See Hobart
  • Day 4: Visit Freycinet National Park
  • Day 5: Spend the day at the Bay of Fires

Tasmania Road Trip 7 Days

  • Day 1: Head to the Bay of Fires and spend the day exploring here
  • Day 2: Go to Freycinet National Park and see Wineglass Bay
  • Day 3: Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes OR visit Port Arthur
  • Day 4: See Hobart
  • Day 5: Visit Mount Field National Park
  • Day 6: See Lake St Clair National Park
  • Day 7: Hike up Cradle Mountain!

Tasmania Road Trip 10 Days

  • Day 1: Go to the Bay of Fires
  • Day 2: Hike around Freycinet National Park
  • Day 3: Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes
  • Day 4: Visit Port Arthur
  • Day 5: See Hobart
  • Day 6: See Hobart
  • Day 7: See Mount Field National Park
  • Day 8: Head to Lake St Clair and hike up Mount Rufus
  • Day 9: Do some smaller hiking trails around Cradle Mountain National Park
  • Day 10: Hike up Cradle Mountain

2 Weeks in Tasmania

  • Day 1: Go to the Bay of Fires
  • Day 2: Spend a day chilling around Binalong Bay
  • Day 3: Hike around Freycinet National Park
  • Day 4: Spend another day in the park
  • Day 5: Visit the Tasman Peninsula and hike one of the capes
  • Day 6: Visit Port Arthur
  • Day 7: See Hobart
  • Day 8: See Hobart
  • Day 9: See Mount Field National Park
  • Day 10: Head to Lake St Clair and hike up Mount Rufus
  • Day 11: See Strahan, go sandboarding and drive along the beach
  • Day 12: Do some smaller hiking trails around Cradle Mountain National Park
  • Day 13: Hike up Cradle Mountain
  • Day 14: Head to Stanley and climb up The Nut

Have you ever been to Tasmania? What were your favourite bits if so? Is this Tasmania road trip itinerary useful? Let me know in the comments below!I hope you enjoyed this list of the best things to do in Tasmania! Please share it or follow me on Facebook

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If you're thinking of a Tasmania road trip, whether you're spending 1 week in Tasmania, 2 weeks in Tasmania or 3 weeks in Tasmania check out this Tasmania itinerary for all of the best things to do in Tasmania.

2 thoughts on “The best road trip in Tasmania itinerary (2024 guide)

  1. Anne Morgan says:

    I have great memories of Tasmania, I can’t understand why so many travellers miss it out. Sounds like you made the most of it though and saw plenty.

    • Claire says:

      It’s a fantastic place it’s it! Definitely saw a lot, there’s still more to see though. I want to go back and do the Overland Track at some point 🙂

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