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Tasmania is a dream destination for road trippers, offering breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and a thriving food scene. A self-drive adventure is the best way to explore the island, providing flexibility and the chance to discover hidden gems at your own pace. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking in national parks, or indulging in fresh local produce, a Tasmania road trip promises an unforgettable journey.
Best Time to Visit Tasmania
Tasmania’s seasons each offer a unique experience, allowing you to customize your road trip to the activities and landscapes that interest you most.
Summer (Dec–Mar) is the perfect time for those seeking warm weather and long days of sunshine. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, and taking part in vibrant festivals that showcase the island’s culture.
Autumn (Mar–May) offers fewer crowds, stunning fall foliage, and mild temperatures. Also the perfect season for food and wine lovers, as Tasmania’s vineyards and local produce peak.
Winter (Jun–Aug) brings a more peaceful atmosphere, with fewer tourists and budget-friendly rates. Snow often blankets Tasmania, making it a great time for cozy cabin stays and wildlife spotting in snow-capped landscapes.
Spring (Sep–Nov) ushers in a season of renewal, with wildflowers blooming and waterfalls at their fullest after winter rains. The mild temperatures make it an excellent time for outdoor adventures.
How to Get to Tasmania
Tasmania is easily accessible by both air and sea, making it simple to begin your road trip.
By Air
Direct flights to Tasmania are available from major Australian cities. Hobart Airport (in Southern Tasmania) is the perfect starting point for exploring the east coast and south, offering convenient access to vibrant cities and natural wonders. If you're planning to head north, Launceston Airport is the best option, providing quick access to Cradle Mountain and the Tamar Valley. For those flying into the northwest, Devonport and Burnie Airports serve regional flights and are great for starting a journey along Tasmania’s rugged coastline.
By Sea
For a more scenic arrival, the Spirit of Tasmania ferry operates between Geelong and Devonport. This option is ideal for travelers bringing their own vehicle, offering a seamless connection for your Tasmania road trip. Be sure to book tickets well in advance, particularly during peak seasons. If you’re traveling with a campervan, check for height restrictions and vehicle fares to ensure a smooth boarding process. For a more relaxed start to your journey, consider booking an overnight sailing and waking up in Tasmania, ready to explore.
Tasmania Road Trip Itineraries
Tasmania is best explored by road, allowing you to take in the island’s scenic landscapes, coastal routes, and national parks at your own pace. Here are three recommended itineraries:
5-Day East Coast Road Trip (Best for Short Trips)
If you’re short on time, this itinerary focuses on Tasmania’s stunning east coast, filled with beaches, wildlife, and great food.
Day 1: Explore Hobart (Salamanca Market, MONA, Mount Wellington).
Day 2: Drive to Bicheno via Orford & Swansea, stopping at pristine beaches.
Day 3: Hike in Freycinet National Park (Wineglass Bay, Hazards Beach).
Day 4: Visit Port Arthur & Tasman Peninsula for historic sites and rugged coastlines.
Day 5: Take a ferry to Bruny Island for gourmet food, The Neck, and Adventure Bay.
Read the full 5-day itinerary here: from Hobart or from Launceston/Devonport
10-Day Tasmania Itinerary (Balanced with Major Highlights)
A well-rounded loop that covers Tasmania’s key attractions, from national parks to coastal wonders.
Days 1-2: Explore Hobart & Bruny Island.
Days 3-4: Discover the historic Port Arthur & rugged Tasman Peninsula.
Days 5-6: Hike through Freycinet National Park.
Days 7-8: Relax at Bay of Fires & St Helens.
Days 9-10: Experience Cradle Mountain’s breathtaking landscapes.
Read the full 10-day itinerary here: from Hobart or from Launceston/Devonport
14-Day Ultimate Tasmania Road Trip (Comprehensive Island Exploration)
For those wanting to see it all, this two-week adventure covers every corner of Tasmania, from beaches to remote wilderness.
Days 1-3: Explore Hobart, Bruny Island & Port Arthur.
Days 4-6: Visit Freycinet National Park & Wineglass Bay.
Days 7-8: Relax at Bay of Fires & St Helens.
Days 9-10: Explore Launceston & Tamar Valley wine region.
Days 11-12: Hike through Cradle Mountain & Lake St Clair.
Days 13-14: Discover Strahan & the rugged West Coast.
Read the full 14-day itinerary here: Tasmania 14 Days Roadtrip Loop
3-Week Tasmania Itinerary (For Slow-Paced Adventures)
If you have more time, this itinerary includes Tasmania’s most remote and untouched regions, ideal for nature lovers and those wanting an off-the-grid experience.
Days 1-5: Hobart, Bruny Island & Port Arthur.
Days 6-9: Freycinet National Park & Maria Island.
Days 10-12: Bay of Fires, St Helens & the Northeast.
Days 13-15: Launceston, Tamar Valley & Cradle Mountain.
Days 16-18: Strahan & the West Coast.
Days 19-21: Tarkine Wilderness & Southwest National Park.
Full 3-week itinerary coming soon...
Must-Visit Places in Tasmania
Tasmania is a treasure trove of breathtaking sights, each more captivating than the last. Starting in Hobart, the vibrant capital city, you’ll find a blend of rich culture and scenic beauty. From the bustling Salamanca Market to the world-renowned MONA and charming waterfront dining, Hobart sets the perfect tone for your adventure.
A short journey away, Bruny Island offers an exceptional combination of local produce, dramatic views, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, making it a must-visit for any traveler. Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula are steeped in convict history, offering a fascinating glimpse into Tasmania’s past, while the stunning landscapes leave visitors in awe.
For nature lovers, Freycinet National Park is home to the iconic Wineglass Bay and a collection of beautiful hiking trails that offer stunning coastal views. At the Bay of Fires, you'll find pristine white beaches and striking orange lichen-covered boulders, making it a photographer's paradise. Cradle Mountain is a must-see for any outdoor enthusiast, with its dramatic alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and some of the best hiking in Tasmania.
Finally, head to Strahan and the West Coast to experience remote wilderness, charming coastal towns, and river cruises that reveal Tasmania's rugged beauty in its purest form. No matter your route, your Tasmania road trip will be filled with awe-inspiring stops along the way.
Road Trip Essentials
To make the most of your Tasmania road trip, it's important to be well-prepared with a few key essentials. A campervan rental is the perfect way to explore Tasmania, offering the flexibility to change your plans on the fly, save on accommodation costs, and enjoy scenic overnight stays under the stars.
A national park pass is a must for anyone looking to experience Tasmania’s stunning natural beauty, as most parks require entry permits. With this pass, you’ll gain access to Tasmania’s diverse landscapes and protected areas.
When it comes to navigation, a combination of Google Maps, offline maps, and our curated itineraries will ensure you stay on track, even in more remote regions. Make sure your packing list includes warm clothing, hiking gear, food supplies, and a first-aid kit to handle anything your adventure throws your way.
Finally, fuel stops are something to plan ahead for, as petrol stations can be few and far between in the more isolated parts of Tasmania. Your Tasvanlife campervan rental comes with local reward cards offering you up to 6cts/litre of petrol* (*subject to availability). With these essentials in hand, your Tasmania driving holiday will be smooth, safe, and full of unforgettable experiences.
Accommodation Recommendations
Tasmania offers a range of accommodation choices to suit every type of traveler. For those who enjoy a bit of luxury and convenience, hotels and lodges in major cities and towns provide comfort and modern amenities, making them an excellent choice for a restful night after a day of exploring.
For the more adventurous traveler, campsites and caravan parks are the perfect option. These sites, often set in scenic locations, are ideal for campervan travelers, allowing you to stay close to nature while enjoying Tasmania’s beautiful landscapes.
If you’re seeking a unique and immersive experience, consider staying in cabins, eco-lodges, or farm stays. These accommodations offer a deeper connection to Tasmania’s environment and culture, making them an unforgettable part of your Tasmania road trip. Whether you’re on a short Tasmania driving holiday or following a longer Tasmania itinerary, the perfect place to rest is just around the corner.
Why Traveling with a Campervan is the Best Option
A campervan road trip unlocks the true magic of Tasmania, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace. It allows you to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems without the stress of finding accommodation each night. From remote beaches to pristine national parks, a campervan makes it easy to experience Tasmania’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Traveling this way also means staying immersed in nature while saving on lodging costs. Wake up to the sound of the ocean, enjoy breakfast by a secluded river, and watch the stars from the comfort of your van. A campervan brings you closer to Tasmania’s wild beauty in a way no hotel ever could.
Perhaps the greatest advantage is the flexibility to adjust your Tasmania travel itinerary as you go.
With no strict schedules, you can follow your curiosity, take spontaneous detours, and make every moment an adventure. Whether you’re planning a Tasmania itinerary for 10 days or setting off on a longer Tasmania driving holiday, a well-planned route and a sense of adventure will make your journey truly unforgettable.
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