11 Most Highly Rated Tours & Experiences In Hobart

Hobart is a city that offers more than just its scenic harbor and historic precincts. It’s a place where a variety of tours and experiences bring Tasmania’s natural beauty, culinary delights, and wildlife front and center. Whether you’re craving a gourmet food tour like the Bruny Island Traveller or want to explore Tasmania’s rugged wilderness with a wildlife sanctuary visit, Hobart’s diverse options will keep you engaged. We particularly love the Bruny Island Traveller for its artisan food sampling, and the Tasman Island Cruises for its immersive coastal adventure. Each offers a distinct way to experience Tasmania’s remarkable environment.

Quick Overview

Hobart’s top tours include full-day scenic trips, like the Wineglass Bay & Freycinet NP that combines wildlife, beaches, and coastal walks, as well as wildlife safaris such as the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. For adventure seekers, the Hobart Kayak Tour offers water-based exploration, while those interested in history will find the Port Arthur and Maria Island Cruise tours especially compelling. Food lovers can indulge in gourmet island tastings with options like the Bruny Island Gourmet Sightseeing Day Tour. Now, let’s dive into each experience to see what makes them worth your time.

1. Bruny Island Traveller – Gourmet Tasting and Sightseeing Day Trip from Hobart

This tour is a foodie’s dream. It takes you from Hobart onto Bruny Island for nearly 10 hours of tastings, scenic views, and stories from local producers. The tour includes stops at Adventure Bay, where you’ll enjoy oysters from Get Shucked, and Bruny Island Honey for a honey tasting. The highlight is the Bruny Island Gourmet Tasting itself, showcasing cheese, chocolate, and local honey, all while you learn about the island’s history. The small group format and hotel pickup make it comfortable and personalized. Expect to see The Neck Lookout for spectacular views and enjoy a beachside lunch with fresh oysters.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on artisan producers and behind-the-scenes stories, making it perfect for foodies eager to taste Tasmania’s best. With a 5-star rating from over 786 reviews, the consistent praise for the knowledgeable guide and relaxed pace makes it a top choice for those wanting a culinary adventure.

Bottom Line: A delicious way to explore Tasmania’s gourmet scene, ideal for food lovers and curious travelers.

2. Day Tour in Mt. Field, Mt. Wellington, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and Richmond

This well-rounded day trip offers a blend of wildlife, nature, and history. Starting with Russell Falls in Mt. Field National Park, you’ll see one of Tasmania’s most photographed waterfalls. The wildlife sanctuary, Bonorong, is dedicated to animals like Tasmanian devils, and visitors often comment on the passion of the team. The tour then visits Richmond, one of Tasmania’s most charming towns, with its historic bridge and local produce. The highlight is the scenic drive along the Derwent River and the panoramic views from Mount Wellington. With limited to 20 people, this trip feels intimate, allowing for personal attention.

Reviewers often mention the knowledgeable guides and the diversity of experiences packed into one day. The tour’s value lies in its mix of wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and heritage sites, making it perfect for those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable day of exploration.

Bottom Line: Great for wildlife lovers and anyone wanting a taste of Tasmania’s diverse landscape in one day.

3. Maria Island Cruise and Guided Walk Day Tour with Lunch and Drinks

This full-day adventure combines a cruise, a UNESCO-listed convict site, and plenty of wildlife sightings. The cruise departs from Hobart, and during the 6-hour trip, you’re likely to see dolphins, fur seals, albatross, and whales (during migration). The tour includes a guided walk around Darlington Convict Settlement, giving you a glimpse into Tasmania’s penal history. Expect live commentary, scenic landscapes, and a remote beach lunch. The highlight is the opportunity to see native wildlife up close and explore geological formations like the island’s rugged cliffs.

Rated the #1 tour in Hobart on Tripadvisor, guests praise the crew’s professionalism and the variety of wildlife encounters. At around $211, the price includes lunch, drinks, and the cruise, offering excellent value for a full-day experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for nature and history buffs who want an all-in-one day on the water and land.

4. Hobart: Bruny Island Tour with Hotel Lunch & Lighthouse Tour

A comprehensive full-day tour that combines land, sea, and lighthouse visits. This trip is designed with experience in mind, with guides who know Bruny Island intimately—having guided thousands of tours. The itinerary includes a Cape Bruny Lighthouse Tour, allowing you to explore the historic lighthouse, and a beachside lunch featuring oysters, cheese, honey, and fudge. The tour also visits The Neck lookout and stops at local wineries for tastings.

Guests often mention the seamless organization and inclusive nature—lunch, ferry, and lighthouse tour are all covered. The experience is ideal for those wanting a full immersion into Bruny Island’s highlights, with the comfort of hotel pickup and expert guides.

Bottom Line: An authentic, fully inclusive way to experience the best of Bruny Island with local insights.

5. Hobart: Mt Wellington, Mt. Field, Bonorong and Richmond Trip

This tour combines Tasmania’s highlights in a manageable 9-hour trip. It starts with Mt. Wellington for sweeping views, then takes you through Mt. Field National Park to see Russell Falls. The wildlife sanctuary at Bonorong is next, where you can see and hand-feed kangaroos and Tasmanian devils. The final stop is Richmond, with its charming historical architecture and local shops. This trip offers a good balance of nature, wildlife, and cultural sights.

Rated just shy of perfect with 4.9 out of 5, travelers appreciate the skilled guide and the well-paced itinerary. It’s best suited for those who want a rundown without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

Bottom Line: An excellent all-rounder for first-time visitors wanting Tasmania’s key sights in one day.

6. Hobart Kayak Tour

For a water-based adventure, this kayak tour offers a unique perspective of Hobart’s harbor. It runs from 2.5 hours to a full day, with options to explore city waters or venture farther out. Guests love the experience of paddling past Battery Point, Constitution Dock, and the harbor while learning about Hobart’s maritime history. The guides provide all gear and instruction, making this accessible for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

Reviewers consistently highlight the fun and relaxed atmosphere and the thrill of seeing the city from the water. The lunch option on the kayak is a special touch, and at $179, it’s a great value for a memorable outdoor activity.

Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers wanting a fresh view of Hobart and its harbor.

7. Tasman Island Cruises and Port Arthur Historic Site Day Tour from Hobart

This longer day tour offers a sea and land adventure with 10.5 hours of sightseeing. It includes a 3-hour eco-cruise exploring the dramatic cliffs and sea stacks of the Tasman Peninsula, plus a visit to Port Arthur, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cruise is described as breathtaking, with opportunities to spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds. Lunch and refreshments are provided, and round-trip transportation from Hobart makes logistics easy.

Critics praise the well-organized itinerary and engaging guides. The combination of marine scenery and historic sites makes it suitable for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Bottom Line: An immersive day combining Tasmania’s rugged coastlines with its convict past.

8. Full-Day Bruny Island Cruises Day Tour from Hobart

This tour is a wildlife lover’s dream, offering a 3-hour eco-cruise along Bruny Island’s coast. Expect to see fur seals, dolphins, seabirds, and possibly whales during migration. The cruise explores sea caves, blowholes, and steep cliffs, with plenty of opportunities for great photos. The tour begins and ends at Franklin Wharf, making access simple.

Guests describe the experience as thrilling and full of wildlife sightings, with many noting the expert and friendly crew. At about $197, the tour provides an exciting way to actively engage with Tasmania’s coastal environment.

Bottom Line: Ideal for adventure and wildlife enthusiasts eager for a sea-based experience.

9. Wineglass Bay & Freycinet NP Full Day Tour from Hobart via Richmond Village

This full-day tour focuses on Tasmania’s stunning coastline and wildlife. It includes visits to Wineglass Bay, a walk to the lookout, and stops at Honeymoon Bay and Raspins Beach. The trip offers small group intimacy and hotel pickup. The highlight is the scenic walk to the Wineglass Bay lookout, renowned for its spectacular views of the bay and surrounding mountains.

Rated 5 stars from 476 reviews, travelers love the well-paced itinerary and the informative guide. The tour is perfect for those interested in beach scenery, wildlife, and coastal landscapes.

Bottom Line: A scenic, nature-focused day out that showcases Tasmania’s coastal beauty.

10. Hobart: kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer Bus Pass

This flexible pass lets you explore Mt. Wellington at your own pace. The round-trip bus takes you to the summit for spectacular views and offers hop-on, hop-off stops at key points like Fern Tree and The Springs. The tour includes a guidebook and bushwalking map so you can tailor your visit to your fitness level and interests. It’s a favorite for those short on time but eager to experience Tasmania’s highest peak.

Guests appreciate the ease of transport and uninterrupted views, especially when weather allows. For around $60, you get a flexible and scenic day with minimal hassle.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a straightforward, scenic experience of Tasmania’s landscape.

11. Valleys of Vino Full Day Tour

Wine lovers will enjoy this small-group winery tour, visiting Derwent Estate, Puddleduck Wines, and Wicked Cheese Co.. On the way, you’ll sample red, white, and sparkling wines and enjoy a cheese platter lunch. The trip is limited to 11 people, ensuring personalized service. Guests often praise the knowledgeable guide and the variety of tastings, including local cheeses and premium wines.

Rated 5 stars from 365 reviews, the tour offers great value—you get multiple tastings, a delicious lunch, and intimate group sizes. It’s ideal for those who want to combine culinary delights with scenic views.

Bottom Line: A top pick for wine aficionados and those seeking a relaxed, small-group experience.

How to Choose the Right Tour

Selecting the ideal experience in Hobart depends on your interests and schedule. Food lovers should consider Bruny Island Traveller, while adventure-seekers might prefer the Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise. Wildlife enthusiasts will find the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary or Maria Island Cruise engaging. For those wanting scenic views and flexibility, the Hobart: kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer Bus Pass offers a simple yet rewarding experience.

Budget, time, and activity level are key considerations. For instance, if you prefer a full day of diverse activities, the Tasman Island Cruises and Port Arthur might be perfect. If you’re tight on time, the Hobart Hop-On Hop-Off Bus offers a quick scenic trip.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the Wineglass Bay or Maria Island Cruise, as they fill quickly during peak seasons.

In summary, Hobart’s diverse tours cater to every interest: from culinary adventures and wildlife encounters to scenic hikes and historic explorations. For a relaxed day, the Bruny Island Gourmet Tasting offers excellence in food and scenery, while the Tasman Island Cruises satisfy those craving an immersive coastal adventure. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, booking these experiences early will ensure you don’t miss out on the best Tasmania has to offer.