12 Best Things To Do In Hobart In Winter In 2024
In search of what to do in Hobart in winter? If yes, then you’ve landed in the right spot.
With its crisp air and stunning landscapes, Hobart’s winter season transforms the city into a scene as if lifted from the pages of a storybook.
However, choosing the best experiences can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.
But fear not, for I’ve ventured through the city’s winter landscape to handpick a selection of activities that perfectly capture the Tasmanian winter spirit.
Having explored Hobart during its frosty months, I’ve uncovered the gems that will make your winter visit unforgettable.
This guide is tailored for those who crave indoor cosiness and outdoor excitement. It is your ticket to making the most of Hobart’s winter magic.
Expect to find entertaining and enriching activities that will leave you with memories as crisp as the winter air and ensure your visit is nothing short of magical.
Best Things To Do In Hobart in Winter
Don’t let the chill in the air put a pause on your Hobart exploration.
From the warmth of lively festivals to the quiet beauty of snow-draped mountains, we’ve got all the insider tips to make your winter adventure truly unforgettable.
Here are the top picks of what to do in Hobart during the cooler months:
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
1. Explore the Premier Markets in Hobart: Salamanca Market, Farm Gate Market and Hobart Twilight Market
With a warm drink in hand, exploring Hobart’s world-class markets becomes an adventure that involves discovering local crafts, foods, and the spirit of the community.
For those seeking unique finds and tasty treats, don’t miss the Salamanca Market, a bustling treasure trove of artisan goods and culinary delights every Saturday morning.
The Farm Gate Market on Sundays is your go-to for the freshest Tasmanian produce. It offers a palette of the season’s best directly from the source.
As the week winds down, the Hobart Twilight Market on select Fridays offers an enchanting evening experience.
The focus is on handmade and artisanal goods, from food to crafts, showcasing Tasmania’s creative heart.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
2. Experience the Ultimate Kunanyi/Mt. Wellington Beauty
The Mt Wellington Ultimate Experience Tour from Hobart during winter is like stepping into a different world.
Start with a thrilling 2-hour journey to the summit of Mt. Wellington (Kunanyi), one of the best places to visit in Tasmania in winter, where you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of southern Tasmania.
In this group tour, spend 20 minutes at the top, immersed in stunning landscapes and a variety of walking tracks.
Then, dive into the heart of Hobart with a 90-minute narrated tour aboard an open-top, double-decker bus.
With 20 convenient stops around the city, you have the freedom to explore many tourist attractions in Hobart at your own pace.
It’s the perfect way to experience the best of Hobart and its natural surroundings.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
3. Hastings Caves, Tahune and Huon Valley Full Day Tour
As the chilly Hobart winter temperature envelops you, the warmth of a hot spring beckons irresistibly.
Just an hour and a half from Hobart, Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs await, offering the perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Guided through spacious Dolomite caves, you’ll marvel at stunning formations like stalactites and helictites. Thanks to well-equipped pathways, the caves are easily navigable.
The adventure extends beyond the caves to the 28-degree thermal swimming pool, where you can relax in mineral-rich waters, a perfect counter to the cool Tasmanian air.
A visit to the Hastings Visitor Centre for a pre-tour coffee and souvenir shopping adds to the experience.
Remember to dress warmly and wear your sturdy shoes for this unique natural wonder and relaxation blend in Australia.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
4. Capture the Wild with a 3-Day Bay of Fires Photography Workshop
Another winter escapade that beckons every photographer is the 3-Day Bay of Fires Photography Workshop in Hobart.
This workshop whisks you to the mesmerising Bay of Fires in Tasmania, where winter’s unique light conditions create a photographer’s haven.
Guided by a professional photographer, you’ll capture the stunning winter sunrises and sunsets, vibrant wildlife, and the rich tapestry of rainforests.
The itinerary also includes visiting the iconic Wineglass Bay, adding a classic Tasmanian vista to your collection.
This workshop is one of the unparalleled things to do in Tasmania during winter that will refine your photography skills against the backdrop of Australia’s exquisite winter landscapes.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
5. Stroll Through Romance with Hobart Horse and Carriage Ride
Stepping into a twilight horse and carriage ride around Hobart’s old waterfront or Battery Point is like entering a living postcard and answering the call for what to do in Tasmania in winter.
As you snuggle under blankets, the city’s history unfolds with the gentle clip-clop of hooves, offering a serene yet captivating journey.
This unique tour, complete with a driver in full-period livery, brings the Georgian and Victorian eras to life right before your eyes.
Passing by historical gems like St George’s Anglican Church and the quaint Arthur Circus cottages, you’re not just seeing Hobart; you’re experiencing its soul.
It’s an intimate, enchanting way to explore, making it one of the best things to do in Hobart in winter for couples and a perfect addition to your travel itineraries.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
6. Wander Through the Battery Point Tour and its Foodie Scene
Step into a winter wonderland with unmatched beauty at Battery Point, where the past and present dance in harmony.
As you meander through its cobblestone lanes, you’ll be transported back in time amidst Georgian and Victorian architectural masterpieces.
Wander down Hampden Road, a bustling main street adorned with various cafes, bakeries, and unique boutiques, each offering a taste of Tasmania’s rich culinary landscape.
Make a pit stop at Jackman and McRoss and indulge in exquisite pastries and aromatic coffee.
For those seeking plant-based options, Pollen Tea Room awaits with its soothing almond milk chai and vegan treats.
When evening falls, Da Angelo’s Pizza offers authentic pizzas that promise to tantalise your taste buds.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
7. Laugh Your Heart Out at Clubhouse Comedy and Live Performance at Theatre Royal
Catching a comedy show or live performance at Clubhouse Comedy or the Theatre Royal in Hobart is a perfect winter activity.
Clubhouse Comedy’s lineup of hilarious stand-up acts warms chilly evenings brought on by Tasmania’s winter temperature, offering a cosy retreat where laughter never ends.
Meanwhile, the Theatre Royal presents a variety of performances, from dramas to musicals.
These venues stand out as must-visit spots for those looking to enjoy Hobart’s arts and entertainment scene during winter.
They provide memorable experiences right in the heart of the city.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
8. Visit the Cascade Brewery Tours
When you find yourself in Hobart during the cooler months, I highly recommend visiting the Cascade Brewery, Australia’s oldest brewery, sitting at the majestic foothills of Mount Wellington.
Taking a tour of the Cascade Brewery Co is like being let in on a secret, where you’ll discover the intricate process behind their celebrated beers, accompanied by tastings that promise to warm you up on a chilly day.
After your tour, the Cascade Brewery Bar offers a cosy spot to unwind and savour the rewards of your adventure.
This isn’t just about beer; it’s about immersing yourself in a piece of Hobart’s culture and indulging in the local flavours that make this city so unique in the winter.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
9. Find Your Cosy Corner at the State Cinema
With its charming blend of old-world ambience and modern comforts, the State Cinema offers a family-friendly and warm movie-going experience in Hobart during the cooler months.
It’s the perfect spot to escape the Hobart winter chill and immerse yourself in stories that span genres and borders.
Beyond the screenings, the cinema’s café and bookshop provide spaces to linger over a warm drink or find a new read, making it a beloved community hub for film enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
10. Celebrate at the Beaker Street Festival and Events
The cold air sparkles with the excitement of discovery and the warmth of community in the enchanting world of the Beaker Street Festival in Hobart during winter.
This unique event is one of the must-do things in Hobart to celebrate the curious and the creative, bringing together the worlds of science, art, and music in a way that’s as enlightening as it is entertaining.
Meanwhile, the Beaker Street Crawl is the festival’s highlight.
It offers a magical evening stroll through Hobart’s most beloved spaces, each transformed into a wonderland of interactive science exhibits, captivating talks by thinkers and dreamers, and mesmerising live performances.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
11. Discover Tasmania’s Southern Lights
If you’re chasing the magical Southern Lights without leaving the comfort of Hobart, you’re in for a treat.
The Aurora Australis offers a celestial show right here, rivalling the famous Northern Lights with its vibrant dance across the night sky.
This natural wonder transforms the sky into a canvas of ethereal colours, making it a must-see spectacle during the Tasmania winter.
I recommend finding a cozy spot around Hobart, like Kunanyii or Mount Nelson.
These are some of the best tourist attractions near Hobart, where you can enjoy front-row seats to this dazzling display.
Bring along a blanket and a picnic to make this unusual winter activity even more memorable.
Watching the Aurora Australis unfold is a moment where you connect with the universe, feeling nature’s magic light up the Tasmanian winter sky.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
12. Don’t Miss Out On the Off-Season 2024 Nude Solstice Swim and Winter Feast
Another event you can’t miss this Hobart winter 2024 is the city’s exhilarating off-season celebration.
Ignite your senses at Winter Feast at Princes Wharf 1 from June 13–16 and June 20–23.
Here, you will enjoy a sensory explosion of Tasmania’s culinary prowess.
The air is thick with the aroma of sizzling local delicacies, artisanal treats, and the rich notes of craft spirits.
As music weaves through the night, this feast promises an unforgettable meld of taste and sound.
Then, dare to embrace the chill with the Nude Solstice Swim at the break of dawn on June 21, a thrilling leap into the icy waters of the River Derwent that promises rebirth and rejuvenation.
But the adventure doesn’t end there.
Get lost in the rhythm of Night Shift’s dancefloor debauchery on June 21 and 22, and delve into the intriguing world of the latest exhibition, the Namedropping at Mona, beginning with an opulent gala on June 14.
This exhibition explores the intricate dance of social status and the human desire to impress.
This lineup and much more await you in the Off-Season during the winter in Tasmania.
Don’t just witness the cold—celebrate it in Hobart’s unparalleled off-season festivities!
FAQS: Hobart in Winter
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
Is Hobart nice in winter?
Hobart is nice in winter, offering a charming blend of crisp air, occasional snow-capped mountains, and a cozy ambience. The season also features vibrant winter festivals, arts events, and stunning waterfront views, making it an inviting destination for those who enjoy a winter wonderland.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
What is Hobart best known for?
Hobart is best known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and dynamic arts scene. Iconic attractions include the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), the bustling Salamanca Market, and the historic Battery Point contribute to its vibrant cultural identity and allure.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
What is winter like in Tasmania?
Winter in Tasmania is characterised by cool temperatures, typically ranging from 3 to 11°C (37 to 52°F). Despite the chilly weather, the season offers a unique charm with plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, including exploring museums and art galleries and indulging in the region’s delectable food and wine.
THINGS TO DO IN HOBART IN WINTER
Where is the best place to visit in Tasmania in January?
January beckons visitors to Tasmania’s wilderness, particularly the exhilarating Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. With warm weather and stunning scenery, this time of year is ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and immersing oneself in Tasmania’s pristine natural beauty.
Final Thoughts: Winter in Hobart
As the winter season wraps around Hobart, the city doesn’t simply quiet down; it comes alive, showcasing a warmth and vibrancy that matches its sunnier seasons.
Having explored Hobart through its frosty embrace, I’ve realised that winter is when the city’s true spirit emerges, offering a treasure trove of activities that ensure there’s never a dull moment.
Every snowflake that falls, every laugh shared at a comedy show, every awe-inspiring glimpse of the Aurora Australis, and each moment steeped in the unique charm of Tasmania brings people together and knits a season of unforgettable memories.
Winter in Hobart is more than just colder days; it’s a journey through a wonderland of experiences, a collection of moments from the best things to do in Hobart in winter that will linger in your heart, warming you long after the winter chill has passed.
