Discover Launceston and surrounds

Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie or a wine lover, fall in love with a city with the perfect blend of everything. From unique Australian wildlife, raw wilderness, fruitful wineries, delicious local produce, friendly locals, beautiful architectural styles, and much more. It's time to uncover the local secrets in the heart of North-West Tasmania.

Where should you visit in Launceston?

Welcome to Launceston

Be enchanted by Tasmania’s second-largest city, Launceston. Located in the heart of North-West Tasmania, this riverside city is a foodie and art lover's haven. A place where the country meets the city with one of the best-preserved early cityscapes in Australia. Featuring elegant Colonial, Heritage-listed, Victorian architecture and century-old parks.

A great assortment of things to do and see

Visit the local harvest market which is held every Saturday, showcasing the region’s finest locally-grown produce. A short stroll from the centre of the city, you can find Cataract Gorge, a slice of Launceston wilderness.

Escape to the vines

Renowned for being close to Tamar Valley, a wine region which is situated along the Tamar River. Growing here is Pinot Noir, Riesling and Chardonnay. Go winery hopping, visit little boutique wineries and indulge in some wine tasting.

Queen Victoria Museum

Discover the largest museum in Australia that is not located in a capital city, the Queen Victoria Museum. Boasting a great collection of Tasmanian art, history and natural science in the centre of the city. The QVMAG is generally open from 10 am till 4 pm daily and is a must-do during your visit to Launceston.

City Park

Soak up the local vibes at City Park, one of Australia's top ten parks which dates back to 1820. Located in the centre of the city, the park features a children's playground, barbecue areas, shady spots to enjoy a picnic and even monkeys! In an enclosure in the middle of Launceston’s City Park, you can find a number of Japanese macaques.

Devonport

Where the Bass Strait meets the Mersey River, along the north coast is Devonport. Located approximately 100 kilometres northwest of Launceston, Devonport is known as the 'Gateway to Tasmania' due to it being the arrival and departure point for the Spirit of Tasmania car ferry from Melbourne. Highlights include Mersey Bluff, Don River Railway, the Bass Strait Maritime Museum, and Home Hill. Nearby, you will also find the Tasmanian Arboretum or go biking along the coastal trail to The Bluff. Here, you can encounter Aboriginal rock carvings.

Cataract Gorge

Approximately 15 minutes walk (1.5 kilometres) from the heart of Launceston, you will find one of the region's premier tourist attractions. Cataract Gorge is a river gorge, a piece of wilderness that is ready to be explored. Discover an array of hiking trails, the world's longest single-span chairlift, beautiful gardens, a pool and much more. Be sure to check out the Cataract Gorge self-guided walk!

Cradle Mountain

Forming the northern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, it is a part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area. It is one of Tasmania’s most renowned natural environments. A wild landscape featuring ancient rainforest, alpine heathlands, icy streams cascading out of mountains, glacial lakes, and a wealth of wildlife.

A world filled with wonderful wildlife

A place where you can spot possums, pademelons, wallabies, and wombats. If you are lucky, maybe even the rare Tasmanian Devil. Visit the sanctuary in Cradle Mountains and learn more about these fascinating creatures! Cradle is the starting point for the world-famous Overland Track, a sensational six-day trek. There is something in Cradle Mountain to captivate everyone.

Tamar Valley

Are you a wine lover? Discover more than 30 wineries in the beautiful Tamar Valley. Located in northern Tasmania, along the 65-kilometre long Tamar River. Self-drive and explore this stunning region over one to three days. The Tamar Valley has been named one of the world’s top ten wine routes.

Take a journey through the vines

Stop and discover vineyards, orchards, lavender fields, dairy farms, forests, national parks and quirky towns. Conquer the Tamar Island Wetlands Walk or go for a cruise over the Tamar River. Learn more about Australia’s colonial, gold mining and maritime history. Or go winery hopping and sample an extensive range of both white and red wine varieties of wine.

Hobart

Be charmed by Tasmania’s capital city and Australia’s second-oldest city, Hobart. A place that is rich with history, heritage and charm lying on Derwent River, at the foot of the 1271-metre high Mount Wellington. Discover a dynamic food scene and a range of outdoor activities.

Highlights of Hobart

Hobart is renowned for MONA, a museum boasting fabulous art. It is the largest privately funded museum in the Southern Hemisphere. For local weekend markets, visit Salamanca Place. It is also a fantastic place to wander around and if you like a view over the city and harbour, conquer Mount Wellington.

Other attractions

Approximately 18 kilometres south of Launceston is the charming town of Evandale. An ideal destination to step back in time and enjoy the warm Tasmanian hospitality. Stop by the Franklin House, a convict-built property from 1838. Or visit George Town, Australia's third-oldest European settlement, which was founded in 1804.

Enjoy a local glass of wine or beer

Indulge in some of Tasmania's finest wines at Josef Chromy. Soak up the lake and vineyard views, while you enjoy modern Australian cuisine and wine pairing. If you prefer beer, visit the James Boag Brewery in the centre of Launceston which is surrounded by some of Australia's most unique convict brick buildings.

Be mesmerised by Freycinet National Park

Featuring white pearled beaches, rare flora and fauna, secluded bays and an assortment of birds, Freycinet National Park is a must-visit. At Wineglass Bay, you will find a lookout which boasts one of Tasmania’s most photographed views.

Accommodation

Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our extensive collection of hand-selected accommodations in Launceston and beyond. Your travel specialist will match you with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself.

Ferry from Melbourne

It is possible to travel to Tasmania on a large passenger and car ferry that travels between Melbourne and Devonport. The journey takes approximately 9 to 11 hours and you can book up to 11 months in advance. There are many ticket options available including private or shared cabins. Sit back and relax and soak up the incredible views of Bass Strait. If you prefer to fly, the Launceston Airport is located 15 kilometres from the Launceston city centre.

Why book with us?

• A well-designed holiday, just for you

• Small-scale accommodations run by friendly local hosts

• Carefully recommended activities based on your interests

• A travel tempo and driving distances that match your needs

• Ingrained sustainability in all facets of your holiday

• 30 years of experience in travel to Australia

Let's design your holiday together

We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped-out itinerary from us - but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied. We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.