15 Towns You Need To Visit In Tasmania In 2025

From sun-kissed beaches and shimmering lakes to rugged mountains, Tasmania is a jaw-dropping masterpiece sculpted by mother nature—and sprinkled with a few man-made marvels, just for good measure. With multiple World Heritage sites, Tassie is full of epic adventures begging to be written into your bucket list.

But with so many postcard-perfect places, how do you choose where to go? Don’t worry—we’ve done the hard part. Here’s your ultimate cheat sheet: 15 of the most unforgettable towns to visit in Tasmania in 2025.

North

Launceston

Image credit: Brisbane Street Bistro | Instagram 

Launceston is one of Australia's oldest cities with some of the best-preserved early architecture and parks to explore. Start your visit with a trip to Cataract Gorge, a breathtaking river gorge just 1.5 km from the city centre. Then, soak up the sunshine with a leisurely stroll through City Park before diving into the local arts and history at the Queen Victoria Museum. Thirsty? Sink a brew or two and learn about the art of craft beer at the James Boag Brewery, before preparing for an epic feast at one of Launceston's best restaurants. UNESCO recognised Launceston as the ‘City of Gastronomy’—one of only two cities in Australia to boast that tasty title—so you know your tastebuds are in for a treat. Want to stay overnight? These gorgeous Airbnbs blend luxury with epic naturescapes. 

Devonport

Image credit: S Group | Tourism Tasmania

Perched on Tasmania’s northern coast, Devonport is where laid-back charm meets adventure. Start your day with ocean views and a smooth cuppa from Laneway, then dive into local history at the Bass Strait Maritime Centre. Wander up to the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse for sweeping coastal vistas, or throw down a towel at Coles Beach. If you’re feeling active, the waters are perfect for kayaking or casting a line—and just outside the city, Narawntapu National Park offers the chance to meet the friendly locals—wallabies, kangaroos, and wombats. When hunger strikes, feast on fresh local seafood at Playfish, then settle in for the night at Novotel Devonport.

South 

Hobart

Image credit: Osborne Images | Tourism Tasmania 

Hobart is Tasmania's capital city and the second oldest capital in Australia after Sydney. It’s also the city most people think about when they think about Tasmania, and with good reason: with its rich history and gorgeous architecture, stunning waterways and beautiful mountains, it’s definitely worth a tick on the old bucket list. Marvel at the thought-provoking installations at MONA, take a wander through the Salamanca market and fill your bag with fresh sourdough and local cheeses, then get your calf burn on with a hike up Mount Wellington. Oh and don’t forget to sample all the stellar restaurants, of course. Feast your way through Templo, Fico, Urban Greek and Cultura to start. Want to linger longer? Treat yourself with a stay one of these epic Hobart hotels. 

Port Arthur

Image credit: Paul Fleming | Tourism Tasmania

Set on the rugged Tasman Peninsula lies Port Arthur, once a 19th-century penal settlement, it now stands as a hauntingly beautiful open-air museum. Stroll through the ruins—from the sprawling penitentiary to the Convict Church. Or, for a different perspective, hop aboard an island cruise and take in the historic site from the water. Just a short drive away, you'll find Port Arthur Lavender—an enchanting spot nestled among seven hectares of blooming lavender and rainforest overlooking Long Bay. Be sure to stop by the café and tuck into their signature lavender pancakes. Finally, with its 300-metre-high sea cliffs and dramatic rock formations, Tasman National Park is a natural playground that begs to be explored. When the day winds down, rest up at Eaglehawk Pavilions, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer front-row seats to Tasmania’s coastline.

Bruny Island

Image credit: Elise Weaver | Tourism Tasmania

Bruny Island has some of Tasmania's most beautifully preserved natural environments with abundant wildlife and breathtaking cliff top views. Immerse yourself in this stunning spot with a hike through South Bruny National Park, a visit to Mavista Falls (Bruny’s only waterfall), and get your calf burn on by tackling the steep stairwell at The Neck—trust us the views are worth it. The island is also abundant in delicious local produce, so arrive hungry.  Slurp oysters and sip sparkling wine at Get Shucked (just a few minutes drive from the ferry terminal), tuck into a decadent cheese toastie and glass of pinot at Bruny Island Cheese Company and grab a hearty comfort meal at Bruny Island Cider. For bucket list-worthy digs, book a night at this tiny home.

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Richmond

Image credit: Alastair Bett | Tourism Tasmania

Just a short, 20-minute drive from Hobart, Richmond was established as a military staging post and convict station linking Hobart with Port Arthur. The historic village looks like something out of a romance novel, and  is famed for its beautiful Georgian architecture which dates back as early as the 1820s. Nestled in the heart of the Coal River Valley, your itinerary here is filled with top notch sips and snacks, as well as plenty of galleries, tea shops, museums and boutiques. Step back in time with a stroll around Richmond Gaol, then treat yourself to a decadent dinner at Frogmore Creek Winery. Dig into plates of tamarind glazed Scottsdale pork belly and pepperberry rubbed wallaby, paired with matching wines. At night, check into The Henry Jones Art Hotel where every room pays homage to a Tasmanian character. 

Cygnet

Image credit: Arcade Publications | Tourism Tasmania

Cygnet is set in the heart of the Huon Valley, famed for its abundant fruitbowl of produce—delicious apple, cherry and berry orchards. In fact, 83% of Tasmanian apples originate in this region. Which means visits to cellar doors like Hartzview Vineyard and Sailor Seeks Horse are a must. Sip apple, pear, and cherry ciders at Pagan Cider, and tuck into tasty plates from their roving line-up of local food trucks. This spot is also an artistic haven, with art studios, galleries and craft shops lining the main street. For old world charm, stay at Cygnet Old Bank Bed & Breakfast—their high tea experience is a must.

West

Strahan

Image credit: Tourism Australia | Website

Sitting right on the edge of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Strahan is a postcard-perfect harbour-side village with a fascinating historic past. Learn about the last great convict escape from Sarah Island at The Ship That Never Was, before exploring the Macquarie Harbour Penal Station, Tasmania's earliest penal settlement. Explore the beauty of mother nature with a ride on the West Coast Wilderness Railway (it’s a bucket list experience), or glide along the glass-like water on Gordon River Cruises. For something truly unique, head 14km north of Strahan to the towering Henty Dunes that rise up to 30 metres high, stretching inland like a slice of desert dropped in Tasmania. Hike the 90-minute return trail to Ocean Beach, or embrace your inner thrill-seeker and ride the dunes on a toboggan—rentals available in town.

Queenstown

Image credit: Elise Weaver | Tourism Tasmania

Once the world’s richest mining town, Queenstown is the largest town in Tasmania's west. Fringed by jagged mountains, the mining and mass logging in the early 1900s created a surreal and rocky 'moonscape' around the town, giving it a distinct wild west feel as you drive in. There’s so much to explore in this unique spot. Start with a dose of nature—Montezuma Falls, Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park and Iron Blow Lookout are non negotiable. Hungry? Tuck into melt-in-your-mouth steak at The Empire Hotel (you can stay the night there too) or smash a cheeseboard and a glass of local vino at Moonscape Wine Bar. If you want to get your adrenaline pumping, round out your visit with King River Rafting, where you’ll navigate seven km of the King River Gorge's rapids, passing through a remote rainforest gorge filled with thousands of ancient Huon Pine trees.

Penguin

Image credit: Stu Gibson | Tourism Tasmania

We probably don’t need to tell you that the city of Penguin is full of penguins but it totally is. Sitting on the edge of the Bass Strait, Penguin takes its name from a nearby penguin rookery. You can snap some pics with the town’s 10-foot penguin or hit up Penguin Point at night to see the real deal. If you swing by town on a Sunday, Penguin hosts Tasmania's largest undercover market with more than 200 stalls slinging food and wine, woodcraft and second-hand goods. It’s open 9am-3pm at 11 Arnold Street. Want to explore further? Look for the QR codes dotted around town and walk the Penguin Heritage Trail to 26 historic sites, including the heritage-listed Penguin General Cemetery.

East

Bicheno

Image credit: Chad Dewsen | Tourism Tasmania

In this beloved seaside escape, perfect for families and beach lovers alike, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your days—cast a line off the jetty, hop on a boat tour, or catch the evening parade of little penguins waddling ashore. Stretch your legs with a wander through Freycinet National Park, Whalers Lookout Scenic Reserve and the iconic Bicheno Blowhole. If you’re less activity inclined, you can also dig into some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste (it is a fishing town, after all),  from crayfish to Australian salmon. The Lobster Shack is a local institution—and for good reason—you’ll be dreaming of their garlic butter lobster roll long after you leave. Want to spend a few more days exploring this special spot? Bicheno By The Bay offers great, wallet-friendly options for big groups and families.

St Helens (Bay of Fires)

Image credit: Tourism Tasmania | Website

Just a few kilometres away from Binalong Bay and the southern end of the stunning beaches of the Bay of Fires, St Helens is the largest town on the north-east coast and Tasmania’s second largest fishing port—read: more excellent fresh-from-the-trawler seafood. Go on a sun-soaked stroll to St Helens Point and feel the goosebumps cover your body as you take in the spectacular sight of Peron Dunes. If you're drawn to the depths, divers will find a whole other world beneath the surface here—think underwater caves and vibrant marine life. Prefer your thrills on two wheels? St Helens is a mountain biker’s dream. The world-class trail network winds through some of the most breathtaking terrain you’ll ever ride. The crown jewel? The Bay of Fires Trail—an epic 42km journey from rugged mountain peaks all the way to the white sands of the Bay of Fires. 

Binalong Bay (Bay of Fires)

Image credit: She Who Explors | Tourism Tasmania

While we don’t like to play favourites, Binalong Bay is one of the most scenic and beautiful places in Tasmania. From the glittering blue sea to white sandy beaches to the epic coastal rock faces, it is truly a sight to behold. Your mission? Beach hop as much as you can—Cosy Corner and Binalong Bay offer the perfect mix of beauty and serenity. To see it all from the water, hop aboard a Bay of Fires Eco Tour or, for a deeper connection to the land, the four-day guided wukalina walk offers a powerful journey through the ancestral homelands of the Palawa people. Forget fancy hotels, pitch a tent at one of seven campgrounds dotted along the coast from St Helens to The Gardens.

Orford

Image credit: Andrew Wilson | Tourism Tasmania 

A popular holiday destination for good reason, Orford offers both riverside and bayside scenery, amazing bush walks and the starting point for exploring beautiful Maria Island National Park. The Maria Island ferry departs several times a day from Triabunna, which is just a 10-minute cruise north of Orford. Marvel at the island’s famous Painted Cliffs, scope out 300-million-year-old marine fossils on the Fossil Walk and keep your eyes peeled for Tasmanian Devils—the largest population resides here. Back in town, back your togs and go for a dip at Spring and Shelly beaches, linked by a 2km coastal path that winds through a sandstone quarry—only in Tasmania right? Thirsty? Spring Bay Distillery pours a cracking single malt whisky matured in barrels in the salty sea air. 

Coles Bay (Wineglass Bay)

Image credit: Krista Epplestun | Tourism Tasmania

Would you really want to skip over a place that includes a little something called Wineglass Bay? We think not. Coles Bay sits beneath stunning, rose-hued granite mountains overlooking the crystal clear waters of Oyster Bay. From award-winning sea kayak tours, to shucking (then slurping) your own oysters, there’s so much to do in this beautiful pocket of Tasmania you might want to stay for a few days—Freycinet Lodge and their coastal pavilions are a winner if you do. If you’re more into the eating and not the doing, you can join a food and wine tour and indulge in some world-class wines and famous Tassie eats.