Romantic Things to Do in Hobart

How to get there?

Located on the southeast coast of Tasmania, Hobart is accessible only by air and sea. You can fly directly into Hobart Airport from all major Australian cities. Regular direct flights depart daily from Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, and Melbourne, while there are several weekly flights from Perth and Canberra. Air New Zealand operates twice-weekly non-stop flights from Auckland to Hobart.

If you’re bringing your own car or campervan, you’ll need to take the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne to Devonport, which is just over 3 hours scenic drive from Hobart.

What is the best time to visit?

Hobart has a somewhat cooler climate than other Australian cities. If you are looking for warm weather to indulge in outdoor activities, the best time to visit is during the summer season between December and March. But Hobart is also an amazing winter getaway destination. Winter is time for the Tasmanian Red Wine Weekend and the Dark Mofo festival with an eclectic mix of live music and arts, both held in June.

So sit back and enjoy this list while you plan your next Tasmanian romantic getaway.

Take a Step Into The Past at Sullivans Cove

There’s no better way to start your visit to Hobart than a romantic walk along the waterfront. Once the site of the first permanent European settlement, today Sullivans Cove is the city’s largest port adorned with beautiful examples of classical Georgian architecture. Take in all the history as you stroll along the picturesque streets lined by sandstone warehouses, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. 

This is also the place where all sea journeys around the southern Tasmanian shores start and end, including one of the world’s greatest ocean races, the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race held on Boxing Day each year. 

Head Over to Salamanca Market

Salamanca Market, just a short stroll from Sullivans Cove, is one of Australia’s best known outdoor markets and among the most visited attractions in Tasmania. It was founded by Italian-born alderman John Clement as a homage to traditional open-air markets he visited as a child in his home country.

Hundreds of local traders, farmers and artisans pitch their stalls here every Saturday morning. Come early to browse fresh local produce, collectibles, handmade jewellery, and other arts and crafts with your significant other by your side. Then relax at one of the many cafés surrounding the market as you watch the world go by.

Taste the Brews at Cascade Brewery

If you and your sweetheart share a passion for craft beer, Cascade Brewery set on a pretty estate at the foot of kunanyi/ Mt Wellington is the right place for you. Founded in 1832, this is the oldest operating brewery in Australia. It produces everything from lagers to draught beers, seasonal brews, and pale ale, the country’s longest continuously brewed beer. 

Join the brewery’s guided tour to find out all the details of the beer-making process from malting to bottling. Complete your visit by sampling Tassie delicacies like a smoked wallaby, salmon, and local cheese at the Cascade Brewery Bar. 

Catch a Show at Theatre Royal

For lovers of the stage, there’s no better destination for a romantic night out than the Theatre Royal. Dating all the way back to 1837, this is Australia’s oldest running theatre. It was established by entrepreneur Peter Degraves—founder of the Cascade Brewery—and made to resemble English provincial Georgian theatres. 

Whether you prefer live theatre, modern music, or dance, you and your partner are sure to find a show you both love. The theatre also has daily guided tours where you can learn more about its colourful history and find out what it takes to stage a production.

Explore Battery Point

Battery Point is a quaint neighbourhood made up of winding streets, independent boutiques, cafés, and the city’s oldest surviving Georgian cottages. The area dates back to the foundation days of Hobart in the early 1800s when it was home to the battery of guns that were part of the island’s coastal defence. 

Spend some quality time strolling hand in hand with your better half along the Sculpture Trail to get a fascinating insight into Hobart’s history. Then find a peaceful spot to sit and enjoy each other’s company, as you take in the views of the port and the lower Derwent Estuary.

Find Serenity at Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

What better way to make your romantic trip to Hobart memorable than surrounded by thousands of flowers? Spread over 30 acres of land on Queens Domain and overlooking the Derwent River, Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens boast expansive plant collections including a unique display of native flora and the only Subantarctic plant house in Australia. The bridge over the pretty lily pond, the intricately carved Anniversary Arch, and the Japanese zen garden are some of the best spots to snap a romantic selfie or two. 

Lose Yourself in the Museum of Old and New Art (Mona)

The Mona Museum is a place that you and your art-loving sweetheart won’t forget anytime soon. Located on the Berriedale Peninsula a short ferry trip from Hobart, this controversial institution nicknamed "subversive Disneyland for adults” is the creation of Tasmanian businessman David Walsh. With over 1,900 artworks ranging from ornate Ancient Egyptian sarcophagi to James Turrell pieces, this is one of the largest privately-owned art collections in the country. The labyrinth of exhibition spaces displaying quirky works of art is sure to have you both shocked and amazed.

Take a Hike at kunanyi / Mt Wellington

A day spent at the majestic kunanyi/ Mt Wellington in the heart of Wellington Park natural reserve is the perfect opportunity for you and your special someone to connect with nature and with each other. The area offers plenty of secluded spots and tons of activities, from horse-riding to bushwalking, birdwatching, and four-wheel driving, making it an ideal destination for a romantic trip right on the doorstep of Hobart. Create amazing memories as you hike to the 1,271 m (4,169 ft) summit and enjoy sweeping views of Tasmania's southern coastline.

Visit Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

For a special escape with your partner, head to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, a half-an-hour drive north along the Derwent River. Bonorong, whose name is derived from an Aboriginal word meaning “native companion,” is Tasmania’s largest wildlife rescue service. Here, you’ll have a chance to get up-close and personal with kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, quolls, echidnas and Tasmanian devils. The main attraction is an open kangaroo area where you can hand-feed these iconic Australian creatures. Before you leave, be sure to join one of several daily tours to gain more insight into the sanctuary’s rehabilitation work

Ready to Start Planning Your Romantic Trip to Hobart?

The options for exploring Hobart and its surroundings on a romantic trip to Tasmania are endless. Check out our Tasmania Honeymoon Itineraries for self-drive ideas or get in touch with our travel specialists who will be happy to arrange a private guided tour with everything tailored exactly as you wish.