Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, offers more than stunning waterfront views and historic charm — it’s also a place to explore its lively drinking scene through well-curated tours. Whether you’re into uncovering hidden pub stories or tasting craft beers in historic breweries, Hobart’s drinking tours deliver authentic experiences. We especially love the Old Hobart Pub Walking Tour, which combines local history with fun pub visits, and the Cascade Brewery Experience for those wanting to learn about Tasmania’s brewing tradition while sampling excellent beers. Most tours are accessible and designed to give you a taste of both history and flavor, making Hobart a prime destination for beverage lovers.
In this guide, we’ve included a mix of walking pub tours, brewery visits, and historic tours that stand out for their uniqueness, reviews, and value. Whether you’re after a short, social stroll or a more immersive brewery experience, these options cover different preferences and budgets.
1. Old Hobart Pub Walking Tour
At number one, the Old Hobart Pub Walking Tour takes you on a 1.5-hour stroll through the city’s historic pub scene. This tour is perfect for those who want to combine local history with casual drinking. Led by knowledgeable guides like Maggie or Sebastian, you’ll hear stories of old taverns, brothels, smugglers, and convicts that once populated Hobart’s waterfront. The tour allows you to purchase a drink at each stop, making it a relaxed way to spend an afternoon.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on uncovering the city’s seamier past, with tales of characters involved in shaping Hobart’s legends. The tour is well-loved, earning a 4.5-star rating from 91 reviews, with many praising the guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. Reviewers mention that the walk is suitable for all ages, with a fairly flat route and interesting stories that keep you engaged. Some noted that checking the weather is a good idea, as much of the tour involves outdoor walking.
Bottom line: If you want a lively, story-packed experience that mixes history with casual pub visits, this tour is an excellent choice. It offers good value at around $27, and the small group size ensures a personal touch.
2. Hobart: Cascade Brewery Experience
Next up, the Cascade Brewery Experience is a 75-minute journey into Australia’s oldest continuously operating brewery. This tour is ideal for beer enthusiasts eager to learn about Tasmania’s brewing heritage. You’ll explore the historic brewery grounds, discover how one of the nation’s oldest beer recipes is crafted, and hear stories from the past 200 years.
What makes this experience stand out is the focus on the art of brewing. You get a behind-the-scenes look at the process, and the guide shares insights into Tasmania’s brewing traditions. The highlight is finishing with a tasting paddle of four Cascade beers at the brewery bar, which allows you to sample the best of their lineup. The tour has a stellar 4.6-star rating from 103 reviews, with many visitors appreciating the knowledgeable guides and the chance to sample local brews in a historic setting.
Bottom line: Perfect for beer lovers who want an informative, hands-on experience in a historic brewery setting. It’s a short but immersive tour that combines history, craft, and tastings, offering excellent value.
3. Cascade Brewery Tour
For around $67, the Cascade Brewery Tour provides a comprehensive look at Tasmania’s brewing scene. This 1.5-hour guided experience offers insights into the origins of Cascade Brewery, which dates back to the 1820s. You’ll see how beer is made in Tasmania, with the possibility of observing brewery staff at work depending on current operations.
What makes this tour unique is the detailed narration about the brewery’s long history and the brewing process, mixed with stories of how Cascade became an iconic brand. Guests praise the guide’s engaging storytelling, as well as the opportunity to taste a selection of beers at the end. Although the tour route may vary depending on manufacturing needs, the focus remains on the historic and current brewing practices. Visitors recommend staying afterward for lunch at the brewery’s restaurant, which is highly rated.
Review excerpt: “We really enjoyed the Cascade Brewery tour; the guide was knowledgeable and friendly. The tasting paddle was a great way to finish.”
Bottom line: This is an excellent choice for those wanting a detailed tour of Tasmania’s oldest brewery with the chance to sample a variety of beers.
4. Hobart’s Liquid History Pub Tour
If you enjoy a lively atmosphere and storytelling, the Hobart’s Liquid History Pub Tour is a 2.5-hour walk through some of the city’s most historic pubs and buildings. This tour dives into Hobart’s social and pub culture, taking you to Australia’s oldest pub and other historic venues, while sharing tales of early settlers, convicts, and maritime legends.
Led by Dave, the tour combines fascinating stories with tastings of local brews, wines, and ciders. It’s a social experience, perfect for those who want to mix history with a fun night out. The tour is rated a perfect 5 stars from 13 reviews, emphasizing the engaging storytelling and the chance to enjoy some of Hobart’s best pubs in a relaxed group.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a more casual, social experience with a focus on pub culture and local beverages, all wrapped in a historical narrative.
5. Old Hobart Pub Tour
The Old Hobart Pub Tour is a more intimate experience that explores the city’s pubs through the lens of its smugglers, convicts, and colorful characters. The small group setting ensures a personal experience where you can hear stories of Hobart’s past, including its less-glamorous side. It lasts about 1.5 hours and is focused on storytelling and exploring history in a relaxed way.
While specific reviews aren’t extensive, the tour emphasizes a personalized experience, and you can choose to buy drinks at any stop. It’s well-suited for travelers interested in the narrative behind the buildings and seeking a more relaxed pace.
Bottom line: This tour offers a personal, story-rich approach to Hobart’s pub history, perfect for those wanting a more tailored experience.
6. Hobart: Cascade Brewery Historic Tour
Finally, the Cascade Brewery Historic Tour is a shorter, hour-long guided visit focusing on the heritage and architecture of this historic site. It’s ideal for history buffs or visitors looking for a quick yet informative glimpse into Tasmania’s brewing legacy. You’ll explore the heritage gardens, the historic buildings, and learn about the brewery’s origins.
While this tour doesn’t include tastings or in-depth brewing insights, it offers a chance to appreciate the heritage significance of the site and its well-preserved architecture. With a 4.6-star rating from 12 reviews, it’s appreciated for its engaging presentation and focus on history.
Bottom line: A great quick tour for those interested in Tasmania’s brewing history without the longer commitment, especially if you’re short on time.
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in Hobart
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. If history, stories, and pub visits appeal, the Old Hobart Pub Walking Tour and Hobart’s Liquid History Pub Tour are excellent options. For craft beer lovers, the Cascade Brewery Experience offers an immersive brewery experience, while the Cascade Brewery Tour suits those wanting a detailed brewery history.
Budget-conscious travelers should pay attention to price points—most tours are reasonably priced, with detailed brewery visits costing a bit more but offering a richer experience. If you’re pressed for time, shorter options like the historic Cascade Brewery Historic Tour or the 75-minute brewery experience are perfect.
Book early, especially during peak tourist seasons, and consider the weather—some tours are outdoor or walking-based.
Final Thoughts
Hobart’s drinking tours showcase the city’s lively pub scene and storied brewing tradition in different flavors. If you want a story-rich pub crawl, the Old Hobart Pub Walking Tour and Hobart’s Liquid History Pub Tour are fantastic choices. For beer enthusiasts, the Cascade Brewery Experience and Cascade Brewery Tour offer genuine insights into Tasmania’s brewing legacy.
Those seeking a quick dose of history can opt for the Hobart Cascade Brewery Historic Tour, while aficionados of personalized stories will enjoy the Old Hobart Pub Tour. Whatever your style, Hobart’s diverse drinking tours promise a memorable part of your trip — just remember to book ahead!