Tasmania's top 5 experiences

Tasmania is Australia’s island-state gem — wild, whimsical and packed with surprises at every turn. One minute you’re wandering through an avant-garde art installation in a historic sandstone gallery, the next you’re sipping a locally distilled whisky or stumbling upon a secret cove of powder-white sand and crystal-clear waves.

From adorable wombats to the famously feisty Tasmanian devils, the wildlife here is as unforgettable as the landscapes — think rugged peaks, glassy lakes, windswept coastlines and rainforests that feel plucked from a storybook.

Whether you’re popping over for the weekend or staying to truly soak it all in, Tassie is a breath of fresh air and a place that promises the kind of memories you’ll want to relive again and again.

Here are 5 must-do experiences to help you uncover the magic.

1. Take an Indigenous-led walk

Long before Tasmania became a holiday hotspot, it was — and still is — the ancestral home of the Palawa people, Tasmania’s First Nations community. Known by its Aboriginal name, Lutruwita, this island holds tens of thousands of years of rich, living culture.

One of the most powerful ways to connect with this heritage is on the Wukalina Walk — a four-day, Aboriginal-owned and operated experience. Led by Palawa guides, you’ll journey through Wukalina / Mt William National Park and along the stunning coastline of Larapuna / Bay of Fires. It’s more than a walk — it’s a deep dive into Palawa stories, traditional food, bush knowledge and cultural connection.

HOT tip:
Not up for tackling Cradle Mountain? The Dove Lake Circuit is a flat and easy 5.7km loop, offering breathtaking alpine views without leaving you breathless.

2. Visit the Salamanca Markets

A trip to Hobart isn’t complete without a wander through the iconic Salamanca Market. Held every Saturday from 8.30am to 3pm, this lively waterfront event brings together over 300 stallholders — and it’s a true showcase of Tasmania’s creativity, community and flavour.

You’ll find everything from fresh Huon Valley apples and Coal River Valley cheeses, to local whisky tastings, artisan crafts, and Huon pine carvings that make perfect souvenirs. There’s also a gorgeous collection of Tasmanian-themed kids’ books, handmade skincare and all sorts of locally made treasures.

Set against the historic sandstone backdrop of Salamanca Place (which has been trading since the 1830s!), this market isn’t just about shopping — it’s about soaking up the sights, sounds and stories of the island.

HOT tip:
Don’t leave without trying a scallop pie from Smiths Pies. Baked fresh daily and famous for good reason — it’s a Tassie classic.

3. Try bush food with Palawa Kipli

In Palawa Kani, the language of Tasmania’s First Nations people, kipli means food — and with Palawa Kipli, food is so much more than a meal. It’s story, identity and deep connection to country.

On this 90-minute Indigenous-led experience, you’ll walk on Palawa land, sourcing and tasting seasonal native ingredients while learning about the traditions and knowledge passed down through generations. Then, settle in for a private six-course dining experience where modern bush tucker meets ancient culture.

Expect bold, beautiful dishes like pepperberry and lemon myrtle natural oysters, saltbush chips, or muttonbird glazed in preminghana honey — each plate served with meaning and mindfulness.

It’s not just dinner. It’s a deep and delicious dive into one of the world’s oldest living cultures.

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.