6 Of The Best 2-Day Tours In Hobart

Hobart makes an excellent base for exploring Tasmania’s diverse landscapes and history, thanks to its compact size, vibrant local culture, and strategic location. If you’re limited on time but craving a deep dive into Tasmania’s natural beauty, the 2-day tours listed here offer a fantastic variety. Whether it’s hiking in Cradle Mountain, exploring Bruny Island, or soaking in Hobart’s historic charm, each tour provides a unique window into what makes Tasmania special. Some tours focus on wilderness adventures, highlighting waterfalls and wildlife, while others combine cultural experiences like markets and museums.

What stands out is the variety — from the fully immersive Cradle Mountain experience to the scenic coastlines and wildlife encounters on Bruny Island. Many tours include comfortable accommodations and expert guides, ensuring you get the most out of your short stay. If you’re a nature lover, the 2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour promises wildlife spotting and stunning hikes, while history buffs should consider the Port Arthur visit. These tours balance adventure, culture, and scenic beauty in manageable two-day packages.

Quick Overview

The list below covers six of the best 2-day tours in Hobart, each with its own focus and appeal:

• Wilderness and wildlife in Cradle Mountain (see more)
• Tasmania’s highlights including Bruny Island and Port Arthur (see more)
• A comprehensive Hobart and Bruny Island experience (see more)
• An in-depth exploration of Tasmania’s culture, wildlife, and scenery (see more)
• Focused on natural scenery and walking with an emphasis on Cradle Mountain (see more)
• A combination of Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay, perfect for active travelers (see more)

Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.

1. 2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour / Hobart return / Inc. Accommodation

At number 1 on our list, this exclusive 2-day trip from Hobart offers a true wilderness escape. It’s the only tour that returns directly from Hobart to Cradle Mountain, making it a practical and convenient option for travelers based in the city. The tour features visits to Tasmania’s most stunning waterfalls, rainforests, and alpine regions, along with some of the best hiking in the area. The small group size — a maximum of 13 people — ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to spot wombats, echidnas, and even platypus in the wild.

The itinerary kicks off with the iconic Russell Falls in Mount Field National Park, where you’ll walk among towering trees. Afterward, the drive takes you through Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, with a stop in the eerie mining town of Queenstown. The highlight is spending a full day in Cradle Mountain National Park, with guided hikes and wildlife spotting. Accommodation is lakeside, offering a cozy retreat after a day of adventure.

Reviewers consistently praise this tour for its well-planned itinerary and knowledgeable guides. One said, “The two days were packed with activities from 7am to 6pm — offering many windows to Tasmania’s natural and historic faces.” For those wanting a deep wilderness experience with a focus on hiking and wildlife, this tour hits the mark.

Bottom Line: An ideal choice for nature lovers who want a guided, small-group experience into Tasmania’s wild heart, with hassle-free return and cozy accommodations.

2. 2 Day Tasmanian Highlights Tour – Bruny Island & Port Arthur

Number 2 on our list is the perfect tour for travelers looking to balance stunning scenery with culture. For about $222.35 per person, this tour covers Tasmania’s iconic highlights, including a full day exploring Bruny Island and a visit to Port Arthur. It’s a fantastic way to experience both the island’s natural beauty and its convict past.

The first day features a scenic drive to Eaglehawk Neck, with stops at Pirate Bay lookout and the Dog Line monument. Then, you’ll cross over to Bruny Island, renowned for its world-class beaches, rugged coastlines, and native wildlife. You’ll visit the Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry — a sweet highlight — and explore the Port Arthur Lavender Farm before delving into the Port Arthur Historic Site, where you get a guided tour of Tasmania’s most famous penal settlement. The day ends with a stop at Remarkable Cave, a striking natural formation.

The tour’s flexible itinerary and local guides make it a favorite. One reviewer mentions, “Ben was an exceptional tour guide — friendly and approachable. He made the experience memorable.” This trip suits travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, history, and local treats without long hikes or strenuous activities.

Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and scenery seekers alike, offering a comprehensive taste of Tasmania’s coastlines, wildlife, and historic sites.

3. 2 Day Tasmanian Highlights Tour-Hobart Highlights & Bruny Island

At number 3, this well-rounded 2-day tour combines Hobart’s urban charm with a day on Bruny Island. It’s a great option for visitors who want a bit of everything—markets, wildlife, and scenic views—without the need for strenuous hikes. The tour includes hotel pickup and all transportation, making logistics straightforward.

Day 1 features Mount Wellington for panoramic views, a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to see Tasmanian devils, wombats, and kangaroos, plus a stroll through historic Richmond. If it’s Saturday, you’ll enjoy the famous Salamanca Market, sampling local produce and browsing artisan stalls. Day 2 takes you to Bruny Island, where you explore beaches, forests, and wildlife, with plenty of time to enjoy local food. The guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging personalities.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown without sacrificing comfort. The reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and the small group size, which creates a more intimate experience.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Hobart’s highlights and Tasmania’s best coastal scenery.

4. 2 Days of Tasmania’s Best

Number 4 offers a broad yet curated experience of Tasmania’s best sights and wildlife. Over two days, you’ll encounter Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, and koalas at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, ascend Mount Wellington for sweeping views, and visit Bruny Island for beaches, forests, and local produce.

This tour emphasizes culture, adventure, and nature all at once, with a flexible itinerary tailored to highlight Tasmania’s most iconic features. Its strength lies in its variety, appealing to those who want a taste of city life, wildlife encounters, and scenic coastlines. It’s a good fit for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace but still want an immersive experience.

Although detailed reviews aren’t provided, the focus on diverse experiences makes it a strong all-rounder. The balance of wildlife, scenery, and local culture offers good value for those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania.

Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a flexible, all-encompassing introduction to Tasmania’s culture and environment.

5. From Hobart: 2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour

Number 5 is the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to focus exclusively on Tasmania’s wilderness. This curated 2-day Cradle Mountain tour combines walking, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting, emphasizing Tasmania’s natural environment. It includes stops at Russell Falls and Franklin Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, with a lakeside lodge for overnight comfort.

The tour stands out with its 5-hour guided hike around Cradle Mountain and opportunities to see platypus in their natural habitat. The itinerary is carefully crafted to maximize time in the park, making it ideal for hikers and wildlife watchers. It is also praised for its small-group format and knowledgeable guides.

Review notes mention the “wonderful experience of spotting wildlife and enjoying scenery,” which underscores its appeal for nature lovers. The tour is best for those with moderate fitness and a passion for outdoor activities.

Bottom Line: An excellent pick for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts who want a focused, guided wilderness experience.

6. 2 day Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay

Rounding out the list, this 2-day tour offers a high-energy itinerary designed to hit Tasmania’s most iconic sights. Starting from Hobart, you’ll travel through Campbell Town before arriving at Cradle Mountain for sightseeing and walks around Dove Lake. The second day includes a trip to Freycinet National Park to see Wineglass Bay—famous for its stunning shape—and a visit to Honeymoon Bay for a swim.

This tour is fast-paced but well-balanced, offering hikes, wildlife spotting, and plenty of photo opportunities. Its reviews highlight Nathan, the guide, for his enthusiasm and friendliness, making the long days enjoyable.

It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and eager to see multiple sights in a short time. The inclusion of famous hikes and scenic stops makes it a good value for those wanting to maximize their time.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to see Tasmania’s highlights in a short trip, with a focus on active exploration.

How to Choose Your 2-Day Hobart Tour

Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and budget. If wilderness and wildlife are your priorities, the Cradle Mountain tours (see more) provide a deep dive into Tasmania’s forests and mountains. For those wanting a mix of coastal scenery and history, the Bruny Island & Port Arthur trip (see more) offers a compelling combination.

Travelers on a tighter budget or short on time may prefer the Hobart and Bruny Island overview (see more), while adventure seekers might opt for the Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay tour (see more). For those looking for variety and culture, the 2 Days of Tasmania’s Best (see more) balances wildlife encounters with city experiences.

When booking, consider the season—Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable, and some tours are best during warmer months. Booking early is advised, especially for tours with limited spots or popular dates.

Final Thoughts

Hobart offers an impressive array of 2-day tours catering to different interests, from wilderness hikes to historic sites. For a wilderness immersion with wildlife spotting, the 2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour is hard to beat. Those wanting a mix of coastal scenery and history might prefer the Bruny Island & Port Arthur trip. Active travelers should consider the Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay tour for its scenic hikes.

All these options provide a solid taste of Tasmania’s diverse landscapes and culture, helping you make the most of a short visit. Be sure to book early, plan according to your interests, and enjoy the stunning sights Tasmania has to offer.