Hobart is such a relaxed and easy city to visit, which has become increasingly popular over the last 10 years. The art culture, exceptional food and wine and beautiful scenery all make Hobart a top holiday destination. This city of hills is one to visit for a short or long trip. If you’re traveling to Hobart from mainland Australia, you can take a short flight or overnight boat from Victoria.
When I last visited Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania, I took a plane from Melbourne. After landing on the tarmac beside two small airport terminals, and taking a short Uber ride to the centre of town, I soon learned that there are lots of options for memorable and unique things to do in Hobart.
Visiting MONA, the Museum Of Old and New Art is an experience in itself and has put Hobart on the map as a forward thinking, cultural city in Australia. You could spend a whole day at the iconic art gallery, revelling in the the themed ferry ride, the touring art exhibitions and permanent collection, mind opening installations, to the classy wine bars and dining. MONA is worth the experience if you are in Hobart for more than a day.
With fine dining, cultural and arts experiences and live music, Hobart is a city full of fun activities, in all seasons. With the population of Hobart growing to currently over 189000 people in the small city, there are more events created each season.
There are of course more than 5 entertaining things to do in Hobart, but I here I have listed 5 of my personal recommendations below.
Shopping
If you choose to wander through the centre of the city in Hobart, you will see record shops, gift stores, cafes, clothes stores and even a cow that jumps over the moon. There’s plenty to see and buy as you meander through the shops in the main streets.
The relaxed atmosphere of Hobart makes it easy to have a stress free shopping day, taking your time to visit your choice of stores. You could also break up the day with lunch, coffee or a cocktail at one of the many restaurants or bars.
![Things to do in Hobart. Wander the shops.](https://notatourist.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/8-683x1024.png)
Frank Restaurant
Frank is a modern Argentinian restaurant situated on the wharf. With feasting menus, specialty dishes and quirky and fun decor, this is an eatery to consider for a memorable group catch up.
Some of the standout meals at Frank Restaurant include Kingfish, Fried Potatoes, Sweet Potato and Almonds and the Spiced Grilled Chicken.
The service is friendly and a high standard at this restaurant, making Frank a great place for a special occasion or group booking. The convenient location for a meal and a walk along the Wharf to really experience how picturesque Hobart is, and take in the historic buildings from old Hobart.
![Things to do in Hobart. FRANK restaurant.](https://notatourist.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Frank-Restaurant-Hobart.png)
North Hobart
North Hobart is the perfect area to visit for any type of meal. I was in the area for lunch and it was clear that there are plenty of cafes along the Elizabeth street strip to choose from for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
For the best lunch options, consider Room For A Pony for fritters and fries, or the Boodle Beasley for a combination of Vietnamese dishes and pub food. Alternatively wander along Elizabeth street and take your pick from the varied selection of restaurants and pubs.
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Hills Of Hobart
If the weather is fine and you’re feeling fit, wandering the streets of the hilly city is rewarding for its views and hiking challenges. Its fairly easy to walk through most of the streets of inner Hobart, but once you venture into the suburbs, the hills are steep and not for the faint hearted. Climbing the hills is worth it though, for spectacular views and taking in the vintage houses and cottages along the way.
Alternatively, if you’re after a designated trek in Hobart there are plenty of established hikes to choose from. All Trails have listed some of the best hikes in Hobart. Kunanyi/Mt Wellington is one of the most famous and recommended hikes in Hobart, for the epic views in good weather. Please keep in mind that the views aren’t as clear in rainy or foggy conditions!
![Things to do in Hobart. Hobart views.](https://notatourist.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Hobart-1.jpg)
Rektango
Held in the Salamanca Arts Centre courtyard, Rektango is a free event that showcases live Latin, Funk, Disco music, dancing, fires, and wine. This historical event is held every Friday night without fail, with the exception of public holidays and heavy rain.
Rektango began in year 2000, and continues from 5:30pm at the end of each week, drawing all walks of life including travelers, families and locals. When I visited in 2019, the atmosphere at Rektango was fun, casual with a strong sense of community. Set amongst historic buildings of old Hobart, its easy to imagine these kind of social gatherings hundreds of years ago.
Drop in for a drink and a dance at Rektango if you are interested in immersing yourself in the local music culture of Hobart.
![](https://notatourist.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Hobart3.jpg)
Conclusion
If you are considering traveling to Tasmania for a holiday or short getaway, Hobart is the perfect city for experiencing art and food culture, with a relaxed and laid back atmosphere.
The surrounding hills really are pretty and the proximity of each main area in Hobart provide an experience unlike any on mainland Australia, due to the size of the city and painting-like scenery.
Optimal times to travel to Hobart are during the warmer months of October – March, to really experience and appreciate the outdoor activities in this city. The winters are very cold in Hobart, but if you’re interested in hiking and seeing some snow, then hiking one of the mountains is a popular activity for the clean air and fresh snow. There are also many events held throughout the year in Hobart, reflecting the art, music and food of the area.
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