How to Plan the Perfect Tasmanian Road Trip
How to Plan the Perfect Tasmanian Road Trip
Tasmania was made for road trips. With wide open roads, stunning natural scenery, and charming small towns around every corner, it’s the kind of place that begs to be explored behind the wheel. Whether you’re flying into Hobart or starting from Launceston, a rental car gives you the freedom to take things at your own pace — stopping wherever and whenever something catches your eye.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan a Tasmanian road trip that’s smooth, scenic, and full of unforgettable moments.
Table of Contents
Why Tasmania is Ideal for Road Trips
Tasmania isn’t huge — you can drive from Hobart to Launceston in under 3 hours — but it packs a lot into its small size. That makes it perfect for road trippers who want variety: one day you’re hiking through alpine wilderness, the next you’re tasting fresh oysters by the sea.
And while there are buses and tours, nothing beats the freedom of your own car. You can avoid the crowds, take detours, and linger in your favourite spots without watching the clock.
When to Visit and How Long to Stay
Best times for a road trip:
Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflowers bloom, and the weather starts warming up.
Summer (Dec–Feb): Long days, perfect for beach trips and mountain hikes.
Autumn (Mar–May): Colourful foliage in the highlands, especially around Derwent Valley and Cradle Mountain.
Winter (Jun–Aug): Crisp air, snow-dusted mountains, and fewer crowds — ideal for slow-paced getaways.
Trip duration tips:
3–5 days: Focus on a region (e.g. East Coast, Hobart to Port Arthur).
7–10 days: Do a loop from Hobart to Launceston (or vice versa), hitting major highlights.
2+ weeks: Explore Tasmania in full, including the West Coast and Bruny Island.
Planning Your Route: Key Destinations
Here’s a sample itinerary with flexibility built in:
🚗 Start in Hobart
Pick up your YesDrive rental at Hobart Airport or city centre. Spend a couple of days exploring MONA, Mount Wellington, and the historic Battery Point.
🏞️ Head South-East to Port Arthur
Drive the scenic route down the Tasman Peninsula. Stop at Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen. Port Arthur Historic Site is a must.
🏖️ East Coast Road Trip
From Eaglehawk Neck, cruise north along the coast. Highlights include:
Freycinet National Park (Wineglass Bay lookout is stunning)
Bicheno (great for penguin watching)
Bay of Fires (famous for its orange-lichen boulders and turquoise water)
🏔️ Inland to Launceston
Head inland via St Marys or Scottsdale, passing lush farmland and forests. In Launceston, visit Cataract Gorge and the city’s excellent food scene.
🗻 Return via Cradle Mountain or Midlands
If time allows, detour west to Cradle Mountain for iconic hiking. Otherwise, return to Hobart via the historic towns of Ross and Richmond.
Tip: Don’t try to squeeze in too much — Tasmania’s best experienced slowly.
Travel Tips for the Tassie Roads
Drive on the left side (if you’re visiting from overseas).
Take it slow — many roads are winding, especially in the mountains.
Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.
Fuel up regularly — petrol stations can be sparse in remote areas.
Book accommodation ahead in peak seasons (summer and school holidays).
How YesDrive Can Help You Get Started
YesDrive makes it easy to hit the road from Hobart with a reliable rental car that suits your trip:
Convenient pickup options in Hobart, including airport and city locations
Wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs and family-friendly options
Optional extras like GPS, roof racks, and child seats
No hidden fees — just clear pricing and friendly service
Local advice from our team, including route tips and safety info
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo nature escape, we’ll help you get there comfortably.
Ready to Hit the Road?
There’s no better way to see Tasmania than by car. With a bit of planning and a flexible mindset, you’ll uncover beautiful beaches, mountain trails, gourmet food, and local charm — all at your own pace.
Book your Hobart rental car with YesDrive today and start planning your ultimate Tasmanian road trip.
