Best travel tips for Tasmania

Are you planning a trip to Tasmania, or is it high on your travel wishlist?

Whether it is your first time or your next visit, Tasmania is a destination that never ceases to amaze. From the dramatic cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula to the pristine beaches of the East Coast, from the wild, rugged West Coast to the lush valleys of the Tamar region, Tasmania offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and cultural charm.

We have spent almost one month exploring Tasmania, covering some of its most incredible highlights. To help you travel smarter and make the most of your time, we have compiled these practical travel tips based on our firsthand experiences.

When is the best time to visit Tasmania?

On Tasmania you can experience four seasons in one day, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do.

☀️ Summer (best time) (December-February) – Ideal for beaches, hiking, and outdoor festivals. Expect warm days and long daylight hours.

🍂 Autumn (March-May) – A fantastic time for wine regions and scenic drives, with stunning foliage colors and fewer crowds.

❄️ Winter (June-August) – Great for exploring Cradle Mountain in the snow, visiting cozy towns, and experiencing Tasmania’s food and whiskey scene.

🌸 Spring (September-November) – Perfect for wildlife spotting, lavender fields, and national parks in full bloom.

💡 Pro Tip: If you are visiting for hiking and outdoor activities, aim for October-April for the best conditions.

How to get to Tasmania?

Tasmania is part of Australia, but separated by the Bass Strait, so you will need to fly or take a ferry.

✈️ By Air – Direct flights are available to Hobart (HBA) and Launceston (LST) from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane.

⛴️ By Ferry – The Spirit of Tasmania operates daily sailings between Geelong (one hour from Melbourne) and Devonport.

💡 Pro Tip: If you are planning a road trip, taking your car or campervan on the ferry is a great option, just as we did.

How to get around Tasmania?

Public transport is limited, so renting a car or campervan is the best way to explore.

🚗 Car & Campervan Rentals – The best way to see the island at your own pace.

🚌 Buses & Tours – Redline and Tassielink offer limited intercity buses.

🚖 Taxis & Ride-Sharing – Uber operates in Hobart and Launceston, but services are limited elsewhere.

💡 Pro Tip: Many national parks have gravel roads, so check your rental agreement for restrictions.

How to pay in Tasmania?

Tasmania is mostly cashless, but here is what you need to know:

💳 Credit & Debit Cards – Widely accepted. Visa and Mastercard are best.

📱 Tap & Pay – Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common.

🏧 ATMs – Available in towns, but less common in remote areas.

💡 Pro Tip: Carry some cash when visiting small towns, markets and national parks, just in case.

Top 10 destinations in Tasmania

Hobart – Home to Salamanca Market, MONA Museum, and Mount Wellington.
Freycinet National Park – Famous for the breathtaking Wineglass Bay.
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park – A hiker’s paradise, with world-class trails.
Port Arthur Historic Site – A fascinating and haunting convict settlement.
Bruny Island – Stunning beaches, wildlife, and gourmet food experiences.
Bay of Fires – Crystal-clear waters and orange-hued granite boulders.
The Tarkine Wilderness – One of the oldest rainforests on Earth.
Strahan & Gordon River – A gateway to Tasmania’s wild West Coast.
Tamar Valley – A top wine region, great for foodies and vineyard tours.
Bridestowe Lavender Estate – A must-visit in December/January when the fields are in bloom.

What to eat in Tasmania?

Tasmania is a foodie’s dream, offering fresh seafood, cheese, and world-class produce.

🦞 Tasmanian Rock Lobster – A local delicacy and a must-try.

🥔 Scallop Pie – A uniquely Tasmanian pie with a rich seafood filling.

🧀 Bruny Island Cheese – Artisan cheeses made from local milk.

🍷 Tasmanian Pinot Noir & Whisky – Some of Australia’s best wines and whiskeys come from here.

💡 Pro Tip: Visit the Salamanca Market (Hobart) or Farm Gate Market for fresh, local treats.

Where to stay on Tasmania?

There are many great accommodation options around the entire island, here some smart recommendations:

Hobart – Litora Loft, a fantastic small boutique loft close to Hobart CBD
Cradle Mountain – Cradle Highlander, authentic wooden cottage in the mountains
Bruny Island – 43 Degrees, comfortable appartments with wellness

💡 Pro Tip: Go for smaller boutique accommodation, Tasmania is “specialized” in this area

eSIM or Local SIM: Which is best for Tasmania?

Staying connected in Tasmania is easy, but should you get an eSIM or a local SIM card?

📶 eSIM (Best for Convenience & Multi-Country Travel) (Get your eSIM here!)
• Works instantly—just activate before landing.
• Great for multi-country trips, covering Australia and beyond.

📱 Local SIM Card (Best for Budget & Heavy Data Users)
• Available from Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.
• Better coverage in remote areas, especially Telstra.

💡 Our Verdict: If you are traveling across Australia, an eSIM is easier, but for long-term stays and better rural coverage, go for a Telstra SIM.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tasmania

Q: Is English widely spoken?
A: Yes ofcourse, English is the official language, and communication is easy.

Q: Is Tasmania safe for travelers?
A: Yes, Tasmania is very safe, with low crime rates. Just be mindful of wildlife on the roads!

Q: What’s the best way to get a SIM card in Tasmania?
A: Telstra offers the best coverage, especially in rural areas.

💡 Pro Tip: Download Google Maps offline in case you lose signal in remote regions.

Final Thoughts: Ready to Explore Tasmania?

Check out our blogs for insider tips, must-visit places, and practical travel advice. Whether you are hiking Cradle Mountain, relaxing on the beaches of the East Coast, or discovering Tasmania’s convict history, this island will leave you in awe and wanting more.

Thinking of visiting Tasmania? Have questions? Drop us a message here—we would love to help!

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