The Ultimate Tasmania Road Trip Guide

Tasmania, known affectionately as the “Apple Isle,” is Australia’s hidden gem for travelers seeking raw natural beauty, delectable food and wine, and a sense of adventure. Planning the perfect Tasmania road trip itinerary can be a challenge with so much to cover — from world heritage wilderness areas and iconic national parks, to convict sites and picturesque coastal towns.

As a travel expert who’s spent years exploring every corner of Tasmania, I’ve created the most up-to-date, comprehensive, and practical road trip itinerary available online. Whether you have five days or two weeks, this guide is packed with must-see stops, handy tips, and essential booking links to help you plan your ultimate Tasmania adventure.

Why Choose a Tasmania Road Trip?

Tasmania is best experienced behind the wheel – roads are in excellent condition, traffic is minimal, and detours offer endless surprises. Self-driving gives you the freedom to:

• Explore hidden gems off the beaten track
• Choose your pace and itinerary
• Experience Tasmania’s incredible food, wine, and produce at farm gates and local markets
• Access remote national parks, pristine beaches, and charming villages

Need a rental car? Compare and book your rental in advance at Booking.com Car Rentals or Trip.com Car Hire for the best deals.

How Many Days Do You Need for a Tasmania Road Trip?

Ideally, allow at least 10-14 days to experience the highlights at a relaxed pace. If you’re short on time, a 7-day itinerary (see below) covers the must-sees, while 3-5 days is enough for a highlight reel (for example, Hobart to Freycinet and back).

Suggested 10-14 Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Here’s the ultimate loop, starting and ending in Hobart. Adjust the route to suit your time and interests!

Day 1-2: Hobart & Surrounds

• The highlights: Wander Salamanca Place and Battery Point, visit the mind-bending Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), eat at Hobart’s renowned restaurants and markets, and take a day trip to Mount Wellington or Bruny Island.
• Where to stay: Check top-rated Hobart hotels on Booking.com.

Day 3: Port Arthur & Tasman Peninsula

• The highlights: The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site, dramatic sea cliffs at Tasman National Park, and wildlife tours.
• Tip: Book tickets for Port Arthur and Pennicott Wilderness Cruises in advance via Tripadvisor.

Day 4-5: Freycinet National Park & Wineglass Bay

• The highlights: Hike to Wineglass Bay Lookout, kayak the turquoise waters, spot wildlife, and dine at local oyster farms.
• Where to stay: Lodge at Coles Bay or treat yourself at the luxurious Saffire Freycinet.

Day 6-7: Bay of Fires & East Coast Beaches

• The highlights: Marvel at the orange lichen-covered boulders at Bay of Fires, explore secluded beaches, and enjoy fantastic local seafood at St Helens.
• Stay: Find options in Binalong Bay or St Helens on Booking.com.

Day 8: Launceston & Tamar Valley

• The highlights: Explore Cataract Gorge, sample world-class wines in the Tamar Valley (book a wine tour), visit the Queen Victoria Museum.
• Accommodation: Stylish hotels and quaint B&Bs abound in Launceston.

Day 9: Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

• The highlights: Walk around Dove Lake, spot wombats and echidnas, or tackle a section of the Overland Track. Photograph epic views at sunrise or sunset.
• Book well ahead: Cradle Mountain accommodation (search here) is in high demand, especially over holiday periods.

Day 10-11: Strahan & The West Coast Wilderness

• The highlights: Ride the historic West Coast Wilderness Railway, take a Gordon River cruise into World Heritage forest, visit the haunting Henty Dunes.
• Where to stay: Book Strahan accommodation early – see local options.

Day 12: Lake St Clair & The Heartlands

• The highlights: Enjoy tranquil walking trails, visit Australia’s deepest natural lake, then discover charming heritage villages like Hamilton and Bothwell.

Day 13-14: The Southern Edge — Huon Valley & Return to Hobart

• The highlights: Taste apple cider in the Huon Valley, walk among the treetops at Tahune Airwalk, and stride across the white sand at Cloudy Bay on Bruny Island.
• Finish: Return to Hobart for a final Tassie feast.

Top Tips for Your Tasmania Road Trip

• Book Ahead: Tasmania is popular, especially in summer and during festivals. Secure accommodation and car hire early.
• Weather: Tasmania’s weather can change fast. Pack clothing for all seasons, even in summer!
• National Parks Pass: Purchase your Parks Pass online to access nearly all of Tasmania’s National Parks.
• Driving: Roads are winding and wildlife can be a hazard at dawn/dusk. Take it slow and enjoy the scenery.
• Food & Drink: Tasmania is a foodies’ paradise! Discover farmers markets in Hobart and Launceston and try the freshest local seafood, cheeses, berries, cider and wines you’ll find anywhere.

Find & Book Tasmania Road Trip Essentials

• Accommodation in Tasmania – from boutique hotels to quirky Airbnbs and cozy mountain lodges
• Affordable car hire from Hobart or Launceston Airport
• Top-rated experiences and tours including wildlife cruises, abseiling, and gourmet trails

Shorter Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary (5-7 Days)

If you have just a week, focus your trip:

• Day 1-2: Hobart & Bruny Island
• Day 3-4: Freycinet National Park & Wineglass Bay
• Day 5-6: Launceston, Tamar Valley, and return via Midlands Heritage Trail

For detailed daily suggested stops, insider food recommendations, and specific accommodation picks, check my Tasmania guides below:

More Tasmania Travel Inspiration

– What To Do In Tasmanian Winter
– Top 10 Things to Do in Hobart Year-Round
– A Foodie’s Guide to Tasmania