How To Experience The Best Of Hobart Without A Car

If you’re lucky enough to have flown into Hobart for some much-deserved holiday time, you may likely find yourself without a car. Unfortunately for you, Hobart hasn’t quite hit the bullseye on public transport. But fear-not! There’s still plenty for you to do that is easily accessible by foot (my personal favourite), boat, bus or Uber. Here’s a list of Must-see attractions that you don’t need a car to experience.

1. Hang-out at MONA

Of course, numero-uno is the infamous Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Good ol’ David Walsh really did us all a solid when he opened up his home and weird private collection to the public, putting Hobart on the map. There really is nowhere like MONA, it deserves an entire blog post all to itself (…..watch this space).

A word from the wise, MONA is not for the faint-hearted and will be sure to surprise, confuse and straight-up freak you out. You could easily spend a whole weekend exploring every nook and cranny of that bizarre but magical place.

Getting There:

Depending on where you’re staying, you can always walk, but here are my recommendations for transport:

1.The MONA-ROMA:

Without a doubt, the best way to get there is in style and that means taking the dedicated ferry service (aka. MONA Roma). It costs $25 for a return fare and is the fastest and most convenient route. Departing from Brooke St Pier on Hobart’s waterfront, you can buy tickets from the kiosk inside – But careful! spots can fill up so make sure to book beforehand.

Looking for some luxury? Book in the Posh-pit to travel in the VIP lounge and get treated with complimentary drinks and nibbles for your journey.

2. Uber

If you’re in a group or travelling as a family, the next best option is to take an uber. Depending on the time of day, a one-way fare can cost $20 – $45 (from Hobart Waterfront).

3. MONA Bus

If you’ve missed out on the ferry, you can book bus tickets from the same kiosk which will take you door-to-door from Brooke St Pier.

4. Cycle

This one is a fun option if you’ve got access to some bikes. MONA is located up the Brooker highway towards the Northern suburbs along the intercity cycleway. So, it’s smooth sailing (or cycling) along the 2-way bike path – impossible to get lost 😛

What to Do

Understandably, you’ll be itching to descend the staircase into the underground museum but don’t forget to spend some time above-ground too. There are a number of awesome structures to admire, there’s a trampoline, rainbow room and giant microphone, just to name a few.

Tip: If you live in Tasmania, show your proof of residence and get into the museum for free!

Make sure to stick around for the performances. There’s always a unique live performance in the Sex and Death room at 3pm. Then at 4pm, mosey on over to the Grand Piano and enjoy the Jazz band as they play music written that day for the first time.

See if you can spot the window to David’s apartment, hint: Look UP!

Despite being all about whacky art and impressive buildings, MONA is kitted-out with some amazing food options too. Outside on the lawn is Morilla Wine bar where you can get tasty nibbles and cakes. Or try a Dubsy burger – I’m not one for meat-alternatives, but their vegan burger is insanely good! If you have the opportunity to dine at Faro, you must – and that’s all I’ll say.

2. Picnic at the Botanical Gardens

The great thing about Hobart is that the weather is almost always clear – it might be freezing but there will be blue sky and sun. This makes for great picnic opportunities and what better place to do that than the Botanical Gardens.

Getting There

The Gardens are located just outside the CBD, towards the Tasman bridge and getting there is simple.

1. Walk

The best way to travel is by foot, start at the Cenotaph and make your way along the ANZAC memorial walking track. It’s a beautiful walk, well-signed and takes less than 15 minutes.

2. Hop-on, Hop-off bus

In almost every city is the Hop-on, Hop-off bus which gives Tourists a one-stop shop for transport to all the local highlights. Plus, it’s a double-decker and what’s not fun about that!?

What to Do

Grab a map and wander around each of the gardens, soaking in the natural beauty. Treat it like a treasure hunt and you’ve got a fun activity to keep the kids engaged.

Find your favourite spot to park yourselves for a lunch amongst the trees or head over to the cafe for a more convenient feed.

The best time to go is during Autumn, or early spring to see the Blossoms of the Japanese garden.

3. Visit Cascade Brewery

Passionate about beer? Or maybe just want to relax in a tranquil environment? Cascade Brewery has got you covered! Located in South Hobart, it’s another must-see that’s not out of reach!

Getting There

1. Hop-on, Hop-Off

The double-decker makes a stop at Cascade Brewery so you can use your daily Sightseeing Tour pass for this one too.

Better yet, blend in with the locals and catch the 447 or 449 metro bus from Davey St for just $3.50

2. Uber

Use the app, you know how this works.

What to Do

Take a tour of Tasmania’s oldest brewery of beer and cider. Go inside the factory and learn all about the history of this iconic place, watch how it’s brewed and get a fresh tasting. My suggestion however, is to spend an afternoon over the road at the old Managers house where you’ll find a surprisingly modern bar & bistro. Let the kids explore the mini bamboo maze and enjoy the intricate gardens while you sip your fresh brew and nibble on high-quality pub food with the breathtaking Mt Kunanyi backdrop.

4. Explore Mt Wellington

Tasmania’s stunning natural landscape is not to be understated, this small island boasts jaw-dropping views from every angle and the scene from top of Mount Wellington is no exception. Look down over the whole city, Derwent River and the undulating peninsulas beyond.

Tip: Make sure to rug up! The temperatures on Mt. Kunanyi are typically 10 degrees colder than in the city so don’t make the mistake I did and get caught out!

Getting There

For all you avid hikers, you can walk up the mountain but of course, vehicular transport is more convenient.

If you don’t want to use the Hop-on Hop-off then, the Official Bus is a convenient option that even the locals make use of. It departs from Brooke St pier and let’s you bring your bikes if you’re wanting to whizz back down the slopes. There are a number of flexible ticket options ranging from $25 to $40.

What to do

If the views aren’t enough then get intimate with mother-nature and take a hike through one of many stunning walking-trails. If you’re looking for something easy – Sphynx rock track is a good option and offers an awesome lookout. Or, take the Wellington falls track and see if you can find the disappearing tarn, Olly Gaspar provides some excellent hiking guides for finding it.

The tarn is said to be located at 42°55’28″S 147°12’36″E, journey after heavy rainfall to increase your odds of finding it.

There’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained in Hobart and when you get hungry, here’s a cafe unlike any other that you don’t want to miss!

I hope this provides you with some useful tips and tricks for seeing some of Hobarts’ Top attractions. If you found this helpful or recently experienced these must-sees, share your thoughts! I’d love to hear from you 🙂