Tasmania in 10 Days: Hobart, Cradle Mountain and the East Coast

Tasmania is the kind of destination that gets under your skin. Rugged peaks wrapped in mist, cobalt bays edged with white sand, and a food scene that punches far above its weight. In just 10 days you can experience the best of it all with a smart route that takes you from creative Hobart to wombat-dotted Cradle Mountain and then along the luminous East Coast to Wineglass Bay and the Bay of Fires. This 10 day Tasmania itinerary blends iconic highlights with local secrets, keeps driving manageable, and leaves time to linger where it matters most.

If you have been dreaming of a Tasmania road trip with serious wow factor, this guide lays out an easy-to-follow plan with day-by-day recommendations, drive times, top hikes, dining tips, and places to stay. You will be sipping cool climate pinot noir one day, hiking to alpine lookouts the next, then sinking your toes into squeaky sand under bright orange granite boulders. Let’s turn that dream into a booked itinerary.

Why this 10 day Tasmania itinerary works

• Balanced pacing that avoids the frantic pack-and-dash. Most nights are 2 or 3 night stays.
• Minimal backtracking with a clean loop that starts and ends in Hobart.
• Choice built in. Pick either Port Arthur or Bruny Island for your Hobart day trip based on your interests.
• Big-ticket nature experiences at Cradle Mountain, Freycinet National Park, and the Bay of Fires.
• Food-forward stops with markets, cellar doors, oyster shacks, and chef-driven dining.

Expect varied weather year-round, pristine landscapes, and short distances that make Tasmania ideal for a self-drive holiday.

10 days in Tasmania at a glance

• Day 1: Arrive Hobart, waterfront wander, Salamanca, Battery Point
• Day 2: Hobart icons, MONA or art scene, kunanyi/Mt Wellington
• Day 3: Day trip choice - Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula or Bruny Island
• Day 4: Hobart to Cradle Mountain via Midlands heritage towns or Launceston
• Day 5: Cradle Mountain National Park hiking and wildlife
• Day 6: Drive to the East Coast, base in Coles Bay or Bicheno
• Day 7: Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay
• Day 8: Bicheno and Douglas-Apsley, penguins at dusk
• Day 9: Bay of Fires and St Helens
• Day 10: Great Eastern Drive back to Hobart, final bites, fly out

Approximate drive times:

• Hobart to Port Arthur: 1.5 to 1.75 hours each way
• Hobart to Kettering for Bruny ferry: 35 minutes, ferry crossing 20 minutes
• Hobart to Cradle Mountain: 4.5 to 5 hours
• Cradle Mountain to Coles Bay: 5 to 5.5 hours
• Coles Bay to Bicheno: 30 minutes
• Bicheno to Bay of Fires (Binalong Bay): 1.5 hours
• St Helens to Hobart: around 4 hours

The perfect 10 day Tasmania itinerary

Day 1: Touch down in Hobart and fall for the waterfront

Welcome to Hobart. This compact capital sits between the River Derwent and the dramatic face of kunanyi/Mt Wellington. Pick up your hire car at the airport or postpone until Day 4 if you plan to stay central and take tours.

What to do:

• Stroll the historic Salamanca waterfront. Sandstone warehouses now house galleries, wine bars, and restaurants.
• Browse Brooke Street Pier for local crafts, distilleries, and ferry departures.
• Wander Battery Point. Cobbled lanes, heritage cottages, and rose-framed doorways make for photogenic strolling.
• If time permits, take a short cruise on the Derwent or head to the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery to get your bearings on the island’s past.

Where to eat:

• Sip Tasmanian gin or whisky at Lark Cellar Door.
• Book a table at Fico or Dier Makr for inventive, local produce-driven dining.
• If it is Saturday, do not miss Salamanca Market in the morning. It is a festival of farm-fresh produce, artisans, and food stalls.

Travel sales tip: Arrive by midday if you can. Hobart rewards slow exploration and you will ease into the Tasmanian rhythm from the first afternoon.

Day 2: Hobart’s creative pulse and kunanyi/Mt Wellington

Start with strong coffee and a pastry in Battery Point, then lean into a day that blends outdoors and art.

• Drive or tour up to the summit of kunanyi/Mt Wellington. On a clear day, the view fans across the city and river to the distant Tasman Peninsula. The road can close in snow or high winds, so check conditions before you go. The boardwalks at the top make short strolls easy, while the Organ Pipes Track suits moderate hikers.
• Head to MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, for one of the most provocative art experiences in Australia. The ferry from Brooke Street Pier is half the fun. Check opening days and book in advance.
• Alternative for non-museum fans: Cascade Brewery tour, a wander through the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, or a food crawl through North Hobart.

Eat and drink:

• Lunch at MONA’s Source Restaurant or the Moorilla cellar door.
• Evening small plates at Templo or Bar Wa Izakaya back in the city.

Day 3: Choose your day trip - Port Arthur or Bruny Island

Both choices are outstanding. Pick the one that best matches your style.

Option 1: Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur

• Drive about 1.5 to 1.75 hours to the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site. Allow 3 to 4 hours for the grounds, guided walks, and the short harbor cruise.
• Do the quick detours to the Tessellated Pavement, Pirates Bay Lookout, Devils Kitchen, and the Tasman Arch for dramatic coastal geology.
• Consider a Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise for sea cliffs and wildlife if seas are calm.

Option 2: Bruny Island

• Drive 35 minutes to Kettering and catch the 20 minute ferry. Pre-book in peak season.
• Food trail your way around: Get Shucked oysters, Bruny Island Cheese and Beer Co., local honey, and fresh berries in summer.
• Walk to the Truganini Lookout at The Neck for that famous isthmus view. South Bruny National Park offers beaches, lighthouse history, and short clifftop walks.

Return to Hobart for a final night in the city. If you are dining late, book ahead. Hobart restaurants fill quickly in peak months.

Day 4: Hobart to Cradle Mountain via heritage towns

Aim to be on the road by mid-morning for a scenic drive to Tasmania’s alpine heart.

Route ideas:

• Midlands Highway via historic towns: Stop for a scallop pie in Ross or browse antique shops in Campbell Town. Detour into Oatlands to see the restored windmill and Georgian streetscapes.
• Or travel via Launceston: Stretch your legs on the Cataract Gorge boardwalk and grab lunch at a city café.

Arrive at Cradle Mountain late afternoon. Check in, then walk the Enchanted Walk or the Pencil Pine Falls and Rainforest Walk before dusk. Keep your camera ready. Wombats and pademelons often graze near the lodge areas in the evening.

Evening:

• Rug up by a fire, sip a Tasmanian pinot, and enjoy a hearty dinner. Night skies can be dazzlingly clear. In winter there is even a chance of the aurora australis on rare nights.

Day 5: Cradle Mountain National Park - hiking and wildlife

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is the star of Tasmania’s high country. Entry requires a valid Parks Pass, which you can purchase online or at the visitor centre. In peak season the shuttle bus operates between the visitor centre and Dove Lake. Driving to Dove Lake is restricted during shuttle hours.

Hike options:

• Dove Lake Circuit, 6 km loop, easy to moderate. Classic Cradle views below the jagged summit.
• Enchanted Walk, 1.1 km, easy. A family-friendly rainforest loop beside a creek.
• Marion’s Lookout via the Wombat Pool track, around 3 hours return, moderate to strenuous with some steep sections. The payoff is exceptional views of Cradle Mountain and the lakes below.
• Crater Lake Circuit, 2 to 3 hours, moderate. A varied walk past mossy beech forest and alpine moorland.

Wildlife and experiences:

• Visit Devils @ Cradle, a conservation sanctuary, to see Tasmanian devils and quolls and learn about the island’s unique carnivores.
• Go night spotlighting with a guide for a chance to see wombats, wallabies, and possums.

Practical tips:

• Weather changes fast. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, a warm hat, and robust walking shoes.
• Phone coverage is limited. Tell your accommodation your planned route if hiking.

Day 6: Alpine to ocean - Cradle Mountain to the East Coast

Today’s drive links mountains to the coast. Aim for Coles Bay at the entrance to Freycinet National Park or nearby Bicheno for more dining options and penguin tours.

Driving and stops:

• Take a break in Launceston or the Tamar Valley for coffee or a light lunch. If you prefer heritage towns, Campbell Town and Ross make easy stops on the way to the East Coast.
• Turn off toward the coast near Bicheno. Check into your accommodation, then stroll along Waubs Bay for sunset.

Evening idea:

• Book a Bicheno penguin tour to see little penguins come ashore after dark. Tours operate seasonally and numbers are limited to protect the birds.

Day 7: Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay

Freycinet is the poster child of the East Coast. Granite mountains called The Hazards rise above sheltered bays, with sheltered beaches inviting swims on warm days.

Start early:

• Purchase or show your Parks Pass at the visitor centre.
• Hike to the Wineglass Bay Lookout. It is around 1.5 hours return with steps and a steady climb, suitable for most active travelers.
• For a bigger day, continue down to the beach and complete the Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit, about 11 km. The figure-eight route delivers two stunning beaches in one loop.

Shorter options:

• Cape Tourville Lighthouse walk, 20 minutes return on a boardwalk with sweeping views and frequent whale sightings in season.
• Honeymoon Bay and Richardson’s Beach for an easy picnic and swim.

More ways to see it:

• Join a Wineglass Bay cruise for coastal cliffs, dolphins, and sea eagles.
• Kayak at dawn or sunset for glassy water and close-up views of The Hazards.

Eat and drink:

• Freycinet Marine Farm for just-shucked oysters and mussels.
• Devil’s Corner and Freycinet Vineyard for cool climate wines with a view. Wood-fired pizza or seafood platters make lunch a breeze.

Day 8: Bicheno and Douglas-Apsley National Park

Bicheno is a laid-back base with plenty to fill a relaxed day.

Things to do:

• Sunrise at the Bicheno Blowhole for those photogenic sprays.
• Apsley River Waterhole and Gorge in Douglas-Apsley National Park. The short walk to the waterhole is great on warm days. Longer trails lead deeper into dry sclerophyll forest and rocky gorges for experienced walkers.
• Snorkel or dive in Governor Island Marine Reserve, known for clear water and kelp forests.
• Families will enjoy East Coast Natureworld to learn more about Tasmanian wildlife.

Afternoon:

• Linger on Redbill Beach or walk the coastal path.
• Return to your penguin tour if you missed it on Day 6.

Dining idea:

• Seafood is the star. Ask locals where the freshest catch is being served that day.

Day 9: Bay of Fires - boulders, beaches, and that brilliant light

The Bay of Fires is famous for its white sand beaches, turquoise water, and granite boulders laced with orange lichen. It is photogenic in any weather.

How to explore:

• Base yourself in Binalong Bay or St Helens, or do a full-day trip from Bicheno.
• Drive the coastal road north from Binalong Bay to The Gardens, stopping at pullouts for beach access and short walks.
• Continue to Eddystone Point Lighthouse if you have time. The road north of The Gardens becomes gravel. Drive slowly and watch for wildlife.

Activities:

• Beach hop and swim in sheltered coves on warm days.
• Join a guided walk with a local operator to learn about the area’s ecology and Aboriginal heritage.
• Paddle a kayak on calm mornings.

Lunch and supplies:

• St Helens has good cafés and supermarkets. Pick up picnic supplies here.

Evening:

• Stay in St Helens or Binalong Bay for a slower pace, or return to Bicheno to keep your base simple.

Day 10: Great Eastern Drive to Hobart

The return to Hobart is a highlight in itself. The Great Eastern Drive threads past vineyards, coastal towns, and viewpoint-laden headlands.

Suggested stops:

• Scamander and Four Mile Creek for coastal lookouts.
• Ironhouse Brewery and Distillery for a mid-morning coffee or tasting. Designate a driver if sampling.
• Triabunna and Orford for beach walks and fish and chips by the water. If you have an extra day, add a side trip to Maria Island for wombats, history, and painted cliffs.
• Little penguin sculptures at Raspins Beach Lookout, then the coastal road gives way to the Tasman Highway into Hobart.

Back in Hobart:

• Final souvenirs at Salamanca or local bottle shops for Tasmanian whisky and wine.
• If your flight is late, detour to the Coal River Valley for a winery lunch in Richmond and a wander over the historic stone bridge.

Return your car and start planning your next visit. Tasmania has a way of making that inevitable.

Where to stay along this route

Hobart

• Luxury: The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, blends heritage and modern design in the city’s heart.
• Boutique: MACq 01 on the waterfront with storytelling-themed rooms and harbor views.
• Good value: Hadley’s Orient Hotel for classic charm near Salamanca.

Cradle Mountain

• Luxury-lodge feel: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, steps from boardwalks and wildlife.
• Mid-range: Cradle Mountain Hotel, cozy rooms and a renowned art gallery on site.
• Cabins: Discovery Parks or self-contained chalets near the park entrance for families and self-caterers.

Freycinet and Coles Bay

• Luxury: Saffire Freycinet for bucket-list stays with experiences and all-inclusive dining.
• Mid-range: Freycinet Lodge in the national park with waterfront cabins.
• Budget: Iluka Holiday Centre offers cabins and powered sites.

Bicheno and Bay of Fires

• Bicheno: Beachfront Bicheno for relaxed stays near the water, or Diamond Island Resort for family-friendly suites.
• Near Binalong Bay: Bay of Fires Bush Retreat for stylish glamping and communal dinners.
• St Helens: A mix of motels, apartments, and nature-focused resorts suited to a range of budgets.

Booking tip: Peak season runs December to March and school holidays book out months ahead. Reserve early for Cradle Mountain and Freycinet in particular.

What to eat and drink on this route

Tasmania’s cool climate and clean seas fuel a food scene big on provenance and seasonality.

• Seafood: Oysters at Freycinet Marine Farm, scallop pies in coastal bakeries, crayfish when in season.
• Markets: Salamanca Market on Saturdays in Hobart and Farm Gate Market on Sundays for a brunch feast.
• Wine: Pinot noir and chardonnay shine in the Coal River Valley near Hobart. On the East Coast, call into Devil’s Corner, Spring Vale, and Freycinet Vineyard. In the north, Tamar Valley cellar doors make a delicious detour.
• Whisky and gin: Tasmania’s craft distilleries are world-class. Try tastings at Lark, Sullivans Cove, or small-batch producers as you go.
• Dining: In Hobart, book ahead for Templo, Fico, and Aloo. On the East Coast, many wineries have kitchens, and coastal restaurants focus on local catch. Ask for the day’s specials and be ready to try something new.

Practical planning tips for your Tasmania road trip

Getting there

• Fly into Hobart or Launceston from major Australian cities. This itinerary starts and ends in Hobart for ease.
• Driving from the mainland is possible via the Spirit of Tasmania ferry to Devonport. This works well if you want to bring your own car or camper.

Getting around

• A car is the simplest way to reach national parks and coastal towns. Book a compact SUV for comfort on rural roads.
• Roads are sealed on the main route. Some scenic detours are gravel. Slow down and take care.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife at dawn and dusk, especially on the Cradle Mountain approaches and East Coast roads.

National Parks Pass

• You will need a Parks Pass for Cradle Mountain, Freycinet, and other national parks. Buy online from the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service or at visitor centres.
• In peak season, Cradle Mountain uses a shuttle bus to manage access to Dove Lake. Leave your car at the visitor centre during shuttle hours.

Weather and best time to visit

• Summer (Dec to Feb): Warmest weather, long days, busiest crowds. Coastal swimming is best now.
• Autumn (Mar to May): Calm conditions, mild days, changing foliage in the highlands. Excellent hiking.
• Winter (Jun to Aug): Quiet, crisp air, snow on the mountains, roaring fires. Pack serious warm layers for Cradle Mountain.
• Spring (Sep to Nov): Wildflowers, waterfalls, and baby wildlife. Changeable conditions.

What to pack

• Layered clothing, warm fleece, and a waterproof jacket.
• Sturdy walking shoes or light hiking boots.
• Sun protection, hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen.
• Reusable water bottle and a daypack for hikes.
• Insect repellent for the East Coast in summer.
• A small first aid kit and any medications. Pharmacies are limited outside towns.

Connectivity, fuel, and cash

• Mobile coverage is patchy in national parks and remote stretches.
• Fill up in larger towns like Hobart, Launceston, and St Helens. Fuel stations may close earlier than on the mainland in smaller towns.
• Cards are widely accepted. Carry a little cash for markets or small vendors.

Driving etiquette and safety

• Drive on the left. The default rural limit is 100 km/h, but many roads are winding. Take it slower where needed.
• Avoid driving at night outside major towns due to wildlife.
• Allow extra time for photo stops. Tasmania rewards unhurried travel.

Booking advice

• Reserve key experiences in advance: MONA entry, Bruny ferry in peak season, Wineglass Bay cruise, penguin tours, and Cradle Mountain accommodations.
• Restaurants in Hobart and popular East Coast venues book out. Plan dinners a few days ahead, especially on weekends.

Responsible travel and wildlife etiquette

• Leave no trace. Pack out all rubbish and stay on marked tracks.
• Do not feed wildlife. It changes animal behavior and can be harmful.
• Keep a respectful distance from penguins, devils, and other wildlife. Follow guide instructions during tours.
• Respect cultural heritage sites and signage. Consider guided walks to learn more about Aboriginal history and connection to Country.
• Observe biosecurity rules. Do not bring fruit or plants across strict boundaries without checking regulations.

Frequently asked questions

Is 10 days enough for Tasmania?

• Yes. Ten days is an ideal introduction. You will see Hobart, Cradle Mountain, and the East Coast at an enjoyable pace. If you have longer, add Strahan and the West Coast or the far south.

Can I reverse this route?

• Absolutely. Starting in Launceston or Devonport and ending in Hobart works well if you arrive on the ferry. The highlights remain the same.

Do I need a 4WD?

• No. The main roads and access to national parks on this itinerary are sealed. A 2WD is fine. Drive cautiously on any short, well-graded gravel sections.

What fitness level is required?

• There are walks for every ability, from flat boardwalks to moderate climbs. You can tailor your days to your comfort level and the weather.

Will I see the southern lights?

• The aurora australis is unpredictable. Winter nights offer your best chance, especially in dark, clear conditions away from city lights. Treat it as a bonus rather than a guarantee.

Is Tasmania family-friendly?

• Very. Short walks, wildlife encounters, beaches, and interactive museums make it excellent for kids. Penguin tours and the Enchanted Walk are family favorites.

What about rain and wind?

• Weather is part of the adventure. Pack smart and keep plans flexible. Many activities, like MONA or foodie trails, are perfect on breezy or drizzly days.

The wrap-up: your Tasmania in 10 days adventure

In 10 perfectly planned days you will taste the creative energy of Hobart, breathe the alpine air at Cradle Mountain, and sink into the jeweled coves of the East Coast. This route balances headline sights with local flavor, gives you time to slow down, and keeps the logistics beautifully simple. Book those key stays, secure your Parks Pass, and reserve a few must-do experiences. The rest is a joyful flow of hikes, tastings, road-trip views, and serendipity.

Tasmania rewards curiosity. Take the scenic detour, linger at a cellar door, watch the shoreline for dolphins, and be ready for wildlife at every bend. Your 10 day Tasmania itinerary is more than a holiday. It is a series of moments you will replay long after you have flown home.