Tasmania's top 5 experiences you can't miss

Tasmania is a treasure trove of surprises and Australia’s only island-state you won't want to miss. Think avant-garde art shows popping up in historic sandstone buildings, artisanal markets and restaurants showcasing local produce or a morning drive leading to pristine beaches! And let's not forget the adorable wombats and the famously feisty Tasmanian devils roaming the wild.

With rugged mountain peaks, pristine lakes and rivers, and waves crashing onto white sandy beaches, Tasmania is a breath of fresh air. Whether you've got a weekend or a week, this enchanting island promises an unforgettable adventure.

Here are 5 must-see and do experiences to make your Tasmanian holiday truly memorable.

1. Take an Indigenous-led walk

For tens of thousands of years, Tasmania has been home to Tasmanian Aboriginals, made up of many tribes. Today the Tasmanian Aboriginal people are collectively known as “The Palawa” and it’s from here Tasmania gets its Aboriginal name: Lutruwita.

The Wukalina Walk is an indigenous-led tour which takes four days. The tour is led by an Aboriginal guide, leading you through Mt. William National Park/Wukalina and along the edges of Bay of Fires/Larapuna, immersing yourself and experiencing Palawa culture, food, stories and connection.

HOT Tip:
If you’re not quite up to scaling Cradle Mountain, then the flat and easy 5.7km Dove La Circuit Walk is just as breath-taking, without taking your breath away.

2. Visit the Salamanca Markets

With over 300 stallholders, Salamanca Market is a must on your list. Held every Saturday from 8:30am to 3pm, this even showcases the best of what Tasmania has to offer. Think whisky tastings, fresh apples plucked straight from the Huon Valley orchards and artisanal cheeses from the Coal River Valley.

There are plenty of souvenirs to take back home, including Huon Pine carvings and cutting boards, Tasmanian-themed children’s books and locally made beauty products. The historic markets date back more than 50 years in the past: Salamanca Place has been trading since as early as 1830.

HOT Tip:
Grab a scallop pie from Smiths Pies. Baked fresh daily and available at the Salamanca Markets, they’re famous for a reason.

3. Try bush food with Palawa Kipli

In Palawa Kani — the Tasmanian Aboriginal language — “kipli” translates to “food.” On this Indigenous-led walk, you’ll spend 90 minutes sourcing and sampling seasonal native foods, while learning about Palawa history and culture.

Afterwards, tuck into a private dining experience, where you’ll be served a six-course feast featuring the season’s best bush tucker like lemon myrtle and pepperberry natural oysters or preminghana honey-glazed muttonbird and salt bush chips.

4. Take a cooking class at Agrarian Kitchen

Just a 40-minute drive northwest of Hobart brings you to The Agrarian Kitchen in New Norfolk, a renowned hatted restaurant. Beyond its delightful dining, they now offer guided tours of their lush garden and a variety of hands-on classes at their on-site school.

Whether you're eager to master cheese-making, perfect your pastry skills, or delve into natural dyeing and fruit propagation, there's a class for you. A visit here promises to nourish both your body and soul.

5. Visit a convict-era historic site

Tasmania has long been a celebrated destination for its well-preserved archaeological sites from the 19th century, including the UNESCO World Heritage site Port Arthur.

Just a 90-minute drive from Hobart, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see. Spend a full day of exploration (and maybe even a night, for those who are keen on hearing a ghost story or two) to better understand the island’s history. 

Ready for your Tasmania adventure? Connect with our Aussie travel specialists and let’s find your perfect adventure.