7 Days in Tasmania Itinerary: Exploring the Best of Australia’s Island State

Are you looking for a destination that combines breathtaking scenery, rich history, and unique wildlife?

Look no further than Tasmania, Australia’s island state. With its rugged coastlines, pristine wilderness, and charming towns, Tasmania is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

If you only have seven days to explore Tasmania, fear not! With careful planning and a bit of flexibility, you can experience some of the best that this stunning destination has to offer.

Whether you want to hike to the top of a mountain, taste delicious local food and wine, or spot some of Australia’s most iconic animals, Tasmania has something for everyone.

We’ll take you through some of the top highlights of a 7-day Tasmania itinerary. From the bustling city of Hobart to the tranquil wilderness of Cradle Mountain, we’ll show you how to make the most of your time in this incredible destination.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Tasmania!

Day 1: Arrival in Tasmania

After arriving in Tasmania, take some time to settle in and explore the capital city of Hobart. The city is home to many historic landmarks, including Salamanca Place and Battery Point, which are both great places to start your exploration of the city.

If you arrive early in the day, visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), which is one of the top attractions in Hobart. The museum features a collection of contemporary art and antiquities, and it’s a must-see for any art lover.

For lunch, head to the Salamanca Market, which is held every Saturday from 8:30am to 3:00pm. The market is a great place to sample local food and drinks, as well as to pick up souvenirs and crafts made by local artisans.

For dinner, head to one of Hobart’s many excellent restaurants, which serve a range of cuisines including seafood, Italian, and Asian.

Hobart has a vibrant bar and club scene, and there are plenty of places to enjoy a drink or two.

Day 2: Exploring Hobart

After a good night’s sleep, it’s time to explore Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning waterfront, Hobart is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tasmania.

Start your day by visiting the Salamanca Market, which is open on Saturdays from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm.

This outdoor market features over 300 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs or enjoy a delicious breakfast.

Next, head to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, which is open daily from 8:00 am to dusk. This beautiful garden features a wide variety of plants and flowers, including a Japanese garden, a conservatory, and a subantarctic plant house. You can easily spend a few hours here exploring the different sections of the garden.

In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), which is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. This museum is known for its unique and controversial exhibits, including a giant poo machine and a wall of vaginas. It’s definitely not your typical museum, but it’s worth a visit if you’re interested in contemporary art.

End your day by taking a stroll along the Hobart waterfront, which offers stunning views of the harbor and the surrounding mountains. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and bars here, making it the perfect place to grab dinner and drinks.

Day 3: Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park

On day 3 of your Tasmania itinerary, you will visit the stunning Freycinet National Park, which is located on the east coast of Tasmania. The park is known for its rugged granite mountains, azure bays, and white sand beaches.

The driving time from your previous destination to Freycinet National Park is around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the park, head straight to Wineglass Bay. The track to Wineglass Bay is a moderate 45-minute walk, but the view from the top is worth it. You will see the beautiful Wineglass Bay and the surrounding mountains.

After exploring Wineglass Bay, take some time to relax on the beach or take a dip in the crystal-clear water.

If you are interested in hiking, you can take the Hazards Beach and Wineglass Bay Hike, which is a 6.8km return walk that takes around 2.5 hours to complete.

Freycinet National Park is also home to a range of wildlife, including wallabies, wombats, and echidnas. Keep an eye out for these adorable creatures as you explore the park.

Overall, day 3 of your Tasmania itinerary is all about enjoying the natural beauty of Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay. Whether you choose to relax on the beach, go hiking or kayaking, or simply take in the stunning views, you are sure to have a memorable day.

Day 4: Launceston and the Tamar Valley

Known for its stunning Victorian architecture, Launceston is a great place to spend a day exploring.

Start your day with a visit to the Cataract Gorge Reserve, a beautiful natural area located just a few minutes from the city center. You can also take a ride on the world’s longest single-span chairlift for a unique perspective of the area.

After exploring the gorge, head to the Tamar Valley, one of Tasmania’s premier wine regions. Some of the top wineries to visit include Josef Chromy Wines, Tamar Ridge, and Jansz Tasmania.

For lunch, stop at one of the many restaurants in the area, such as Timbre Kitchen or Stillwater. Both offer delicious farm-to-table cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients.

After lunch, continue your wine tasting adventure or head back to Launceston to explore more of the city. Visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the region’s history and art, or take a stroll through the city’s many parks and gardens.

Some of the top options for dinner include Black Cow Bistro, Mudbar Restaurant, and Novaro’s Restaurant.

Overall, Day 4 is a great opportunity to experience the natural beauty and delicious wines of the Tamar Valley while also exploring the charming city of Launceston.

Day 5: Cradle Mountain and Surrounds

On day 5 of your Tasmania itinerary, it’s time to explore the stunning Cradle Mountain and its surrounding areas. Cradle Mountain is located in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area is known for its beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Start your day by driving to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre, where you can get information about the park and its attractions. From there, take a shuttle bus or drive to Dove Lake, which is one of the most popular spots in the park. You can take a leisurely walk around the lake, which offers stunning views of Cradle Mountain and the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, you can choose to hike one of the many trails that start from Dove Lake, such as the Overland Track or the Cradle Mountain Summit.

After spending some time at Dove Lake, head to the nearby Waldheim Chalet, which is a historic chalet that was built in the early 1900s.

For lunch, head to the nearby Cradle Mountain Lodge, which offers a range of dining options, from casual to fine dining.

Alternatively, you can drive to the nearby Tasmazia and the Village of Lower Crackpot, which is a unique attraction that features mazes, gardens, and miniature villages.

Day 6: West Coast Wilderness

The West Coast is known for its stunning landscapes, ancient rainforests, and wild coastlines, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers.

Start your day with a visit to the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, where you can take a guided tour of the underground caves and marvel at the stunning limestone formations. Afterward, head to the Henty Dunes, where you can try sandboarding down the massive dunes or take a leisurely stroll along the beach.

Next, make your way to Strahan, a charming coastal town that serves as the gateway to the West Coast wilderness. Take a scenic cruise along the Gordon River, where you can marvel at the ancient Huon pines and spot local wildlife such as Tasmanian devils, wallabies, and sea eagles.

End your day with a visit to the Bonnet Island Experience, where you can take a guided tour of the historic lighthouse and spot seals and penguins in their natural habitat.

Day 7: Departure from Tasmania

On your final day in Tasmania, take a stroll through Salamanca Market and visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Salamanca Market is a vibrant outdoor market in Hobart that sells everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

After exploring the market, head to MONA, which is located on the banks of the Derwent River. The museum features a collection of contemporary art, as well as ancient artifacts and antiquities. You can easily spend a few hours here admiring the art and learning about Tasmania’s history.

If you have time before your flight, grab a bite to eat at one of Hobart’s many cafes or restaurants. You might even want to pick up some Tasmanian wine or cheese to enjoy on the plane ride home.

Remember to check your flight details and arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Tasmania is a truly unique and beautiful destination that you won’t soon forget. We hope you enjoyed your 7-day adventure exploring this incredible island!