Self Drive Holiday in Tasmania
Tasmania, Australia’s island state, is a place of wild beauty, rich history, and welcoming towns. Located south of the mainland, below Victoria, Tasmania is home to around half a million people. Its economy is supported by tourism, agriculture, aquaculture, science, and creative industries.
For travellers, Tasmania offers dramatic coastlines, national parks, gourmet food, and fresh air in every direction.
A self-drive holiday is one of the best ways to explore Tasmania because distances are short, landscapes change quickly, and many of the island’s most beautiful places are best reached by car.
Getting There
Because Tasmania is an island, you can only arrive by air or by sea.
By Air:
Major Australian airlines including Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia operate regular flights to Hobart and Launceston. Booking early and being flexible with dates often means lower fares.
By Sea:
The Spirit of Tasmania ferry runs between Melbourne and Devonport. The overnight journey takes about 12 hours and offers cabin and recliner options. You can even take your own car on board. In summer, there are also daytime sailings. Many travellers choose to fly one way and take the ferry the other for variety.
Best Time to Visit
October to May offers mild weather, longer days, and the best conditions for driving and exploring. Summer is ideal for coastal walks and festivals, while autumn brings colourful foliage and quieter roads.
Getting Around
Tasmania is perfect for a road trip. Distances are short, roads are well maintained, and there are scenic stops around every corner.
Self-Drive Options:
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Hire a car, SUV, or campervan from major rental companies.
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Drive your own vehicle if you arrive on the Spirit of Tasmania.
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Choose from pre-designed self-drive packages that include accommodation, car hire, maps, and park passes.
Guided Tours:
If you prefer not to drive, consider a luxury coach tour or small-group experience. These tours often include highlights like Mount Field National Park, Cradle Mountain, and Port Arthur, along with local food and wine experiences.
Classic Tasmania Self-Drive Route
Most self-drive holidays in Tasmania follow a loop around the island, starting and finishing in Hobart, Launceston, or Devonport, depending on where travellers arrive.
A common route travels along Tasmania’s spectacular east coast through Freycinet National Park, continues north to Launceston, then heads west to Cradle Mountain and the rugged west coast before returning south through the island’s wilderness regions.
This loop allows travellers to experience Tasmania’s remarkable variety of landscapes, from coastal bays and vineyards to alpine wilderness, historic mining towns, and remote national parks.
The following 10-day itinerary follows this classic route at a comfortable pace.
Suggested 10-Day Self-Drive Itinerary
This classic loop explores Tasmania’s must-see regions at a comfortable pace.
Day 1 – Arrive in Hobart
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Mount Wellington for panoramic views
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Salamanca Market (Saturdays only)
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Battery Point and Constitution Dock
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Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
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MONA (Museum of Old and New Art)
Day 2 – Hobart to Port Arthur (95 km, 1.5 hrs)
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Historic town of Richmond
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Tessellated Pavement and Tasman Arch
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Devils Kitchen and The Blowhole
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Port Arthur Historic Site and night tour
Day 3 – Port Arthur to Coles Bay (236 km, 3 hrs)
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Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise
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Stop at Swansea Berry Farms
Day 4 – Coles Bay to St Helens (114 km, 1.5 hrs)
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Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay
Day 5 – St Helens to Launceston (170 km, 2.5 hrs)
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Bay of Fires and The Gardens coastal reserve
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St Columba Falls and Pyengana Dairy
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Historic township of Derby
Day 6 – Explore Launceston
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Cataract Gorge: walking trails, chairlift, gardens, and wildlife
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Tamar Valley wine route with vineyards, orchards, and scenic drives
Day 7 – Launceston to Cradle Mountain (125 km, 1 hr 40 mins)
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Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm
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Ashgrove Tasmanian Farm & Cheese Shop
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Dove Lake Circuit walk at Cradle Mountain
Day 8 – Cradle Mountain to Strahan (150 km, 2 hrs 10 mins)
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Afternoon Gordon River cruise (seasonal)
Day 9 – Strahan to Hobart (300 km, 4 hrs)
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Queenstown mining history
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Nelson Falls walk in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Day 10 – Explore More of Hobart
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Huonville and Geeveston, including the Tahune AirWalk
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Optional helicopter flight to Frogmore Creek Winery
Where to Stay
Accommodation options include charming bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, farm stays, and caravan parks. Booking ahead during summer is highly recommended.
Final Thoughts
A self-drive holiday in Tasmania offers the freedom to explore at your own pace. From the alpine peaks of Cradle Mountain to the beaches of Freycinet and the convict stories of Port Arthur, every road leads to a new discovery.
Pack your curiosity and a good map — Tasmania is made for the open road.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long do you need for a self-drive holiday in Tasmania?
A 7- to 10-day itinerary allows enough time to explore Tasmania’s major highlights, including Hobart, Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park. Travellers with more time often spend two weeks or longer exploring regional towns, food regions and national parks at a slower pace.
2. What is the best time of year for a Tasmania road trip?
October to May offers comfortable weather and long daylight hours for driving and exploring. Summer is ideal for coastal walks and festivals, while autumn brings colourful foliage and quieter roads. Winter can also be rewarding, particularly for alpine scenery around Cradle Mountain.
3. How far is it to drive around Tasmania?
Driving the classic loop around Tasmania typically covers 1,200 to 1,500 kilometres, depending on the route and detours. Because distances are relatively short, most travellers complete a comfortable circuit of the island in 7 to 10 days.
4. Can I take my own car to Tasmania?
Yes. The Spirit of Tasmania ferry between Melbourne and Devonport lets you bring your own vehicle. It’s a convenient option for travellers who prefer flexibility and familiar wheels.
Meet Your Experienced Travel Advisor, Philip
I've always believed that travel isn't just about ticking boxes — it's about meaningful experiences that enrich your life. Born and raised in Darwin, I grew up surrounded by diverse cultures, big skies, and a strong sense of connection — all of which shaped the way I see the world. Read More
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