Set on the River Derwent and nestled at the foot of Mount Wellington, Hobart CBD is laid-back and low key. There’s plenty to do in the Tasmanian capital, whether you want to dive into the city’s maritime heritage, shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs or eat your way through some of the best restaurants in Australia.
Things to do in Hobart CBD
Strolling around Salamanca Place, you’ll get a feel for what Hobart CBD was like in the 1800s. Today many of the handsome sandstone warehouses have been reimagined as independent boutiques, galleries and cafes. Others have been transformed into atmospheric restaurants and craft-beer bars.
Hobart is one of the oldest harbour towns in Australia and is brimming with opportunities to discover the city’s seafaring heritage. The Maritime Museum of Tasmania houses some of the state’s most treasured relics, including an enormous brass bell salvaged from British cargo steamer, the Rhexenor.
Tasmania is famous for its flourishing food scene and you’ll find some of the country’s best restaurants in the Hobart CBD. Local menus feature fresh, locally sourced produce such as Flinders Island lamb, Leatherwood honey, Tasmanian Atlantic salmon, Mt Gnomon pork and Barilla Bay oysters.
One of Tasmania’s signature attractions, Salamanca Market has been captivating visitors since 1972. The event is held every Saturday and sees the street transform into a market selling everything from organic produce and local wine to handmade jewellery and woodwork. Buskers and street musicians add to the atmosphere.
Getting around Hobart CBD
Hobart CBD is compact and easy to get around on foot and is serviced by free public buses, as well as hop on/hop off sightseeing buses. Ferries to MONA depart from Brooke Street Pier on the waterfront while Hobart Airport is a 20-minute drive from the CBD. You can also ride the SkyBus Hobart Express bus.