1. Markets, Art, And Beautiful Architecture
Located on the southern edge of the harbor district, Salamanca Place is both a beautiful historic neighborhood and a thriving market center, and it's somewhere that very few tourists avoid when they head to Tasmania's capital. if you want to stock up on glassware, wood carvings, or craft fabrics, the Saturday open air market is a must-visit, but throughout the week Salamanca is home to a profusion of artists' galleries, sandstone warehouses from the early 19th century, and small stores that beg to be explored.
2. Art That's Meant To Arouse
Situated on the Berriedale peninsula in an old vineyard, MONA is a jewel of a museum. Presented in a contemporary style and opened as recently as 2011, it's a vibrant gallery, with plenty of hands-on interactive exhibits, an amazing selection of very old aboriginal works, and cutting edge work by Hobart's current hotshots. But, above all, it's a gallery that seeks to provoke and stimulate visitors. Expect some shocking pieces, and thought-provoking imagery, and keep an open mind. If you do, you'll be enthralled by what's on offer.
3. A Tranquil Dream By The Derwent River
For a change of scene and a burst of color and beauty, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens can't be beaten. Located on Lower Domain Road to the north of the city center, the Gardens are full of variety. Tour collections of native plants like the Huon pine, more outlandish biomes like the Sub-Antarctic Plant House, or take it easy in the elegant Japanese Gardens, which are designed to dazzle in every season. And with gorgeous views of the Derwent River, it's an idyllic place to relax.
4. Showcasing Hobart's History
Tasmania and Hobart have a fascinating history, encompassing discovery, ancient aboriginal cultures, convict settlements, and the sad story of aboriginal extermination - and you can find out all about this past at the Tasmanian Museum. Standouts include exhibitions on extinct beasts like the Tasmanian tiger, and the epic voyages of 19th century whalers, but there are also short-term exhibitions that showcase anything from exotic trees to aboriginal print-making. In any case, you'll find something diverting and engaging whenever you visit the museum.
5. Take A Peek At Hobart From 1,270 Meters
When you arrive in Hobart, you'll instantly be struck by its soaring neighbor: the 1,270 meter high Kunanyi (or Mount Wellington as the colonials called it). Aside from the miles of forested trails around the slopes, the main attraction at Kunanyi is the lookout, which is perched at the summit, some 14 miles from downtown Hobart. If you can make the trip (there's a road to the peak), the views are simply incredible. But, if you don't fancy the full ascent, there are other beauty spots like the 700 meter high Springs, or the Myrtle Forest in Collinsvale.
