Hobart’s 12 Top City Tours

Hobart is a city that rewards curiosity—whether you’re into history, art, nature, or great food, this Tasmanian capital offers a range of engaging tours. Unlike many cities, Hobart’s compact size makes it ideal for walking and small-group experiences, like the Hobart History, People & Places – 2 hour city walk, which is perfect for those wanting a quick yet detailed look at its colonial roots. Other options, such as the Hobart: 3-Hour City Sightseeing Tour, combine bus travel with visits to historic districts and scenic views, offering an efficient way to cover more ground. For a truly memorable experience, the Hobart City Sightseeing Tour including MONA Ticket blends city sights with a visit to the renowned Museum of Old and New Art, all in one day.

Each tour offers something different—whether it’s close-up explorations on foot, panoramic bus rides, or a boat ride under the city’s skyline—making Hobart a surprisingly versatile destination for guided adventures. We’ve ranked these options based on their scope, reviews, and unique features, helping you pick the right experience for your travel style.

1. Hobart History, People & Places – 2 hour city walk

At number 1 is the Hobart History, People & Places tour, a two-hour city walk led by a local guide who really knows her stuff. It’s a walking tour that hits the waterfront, a park, and Hunter Street, giving you a compact overview of Hobart’s colonial past and its present-day charm. This tour’s highlight is its accessibility—it’s wheelchair friendly and perfect if you’re short on time but want a meaningful introduction to the city. Reviewers consistently praise guide Lisa’s personable manner and deep knowledge, with many noting how her stories bring Hobart’s history alive. The tour’s leisurely pace allows plenty of time for photos and questions, making it a favorite for first-time visitors. For a quick yet enriching taste of Hobart, this walk offers excellent value at just over $27 per person.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers and newcomers who want a friendly, informative introduction to central Hobart.

2. Hobart: 3-Hour City Sightseeing Tour

Coming in at number 2 is a three-hour coach tour that covers Hobart’s key highlights with all the convenience of a guided bus trip. This tour navigates through important sites like the Penitentiary Chapel, Battery Point, and St. David’s Cathedral, giving you context and stories behind each landmark. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see a lot in a short time and get a feel for different neighborhoods. The route also includes stops at Cascade Gardens for a breather and panoramic views, as well as a look at Hobart’s natural beauty from various vantage points. Reviews speak highly of the enthusiastic guides who make history engaging. This tour offers excellent value for those who prefer not to walk long distances but still want a rich overview.
Bottom Line: Perfect for visitors with limited time who want a comprehensive city intro without breaking a sweat.

3. Hobart City Sightseeing Tour including MONA Ticket

Ranked third, this full-day tour combines a guided city exploration with a trip to MONA—the Museum of Old and New Art. Starting with a coach tour that includes stops at Cascade Gardens and the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, the experience then takes you via ferry (included) to MONA, Tasmania’s top art destination. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed, with about 1.5 hours exploring Hobart, followed by the ferry ride, and then three hours at MONA, where modern, provocative art awaits. Reviewers love how this tour maximizes your time, blending culture, history, and contemporary art. The ferry ride itself adds a scenic touch, and the MONA visit is a must for art lovers. At $100, it’s a good value considering the full-day experience and ferry included.
Bottom Line: Best suited for art and culture enthusiasts wanting a full immersion in Hobart’s creative scene.

4. Hobart City 2.5-Hour Kayak Tour

For a more active experience, number 4 is the 2.5-hour kayak tour along Hobart’s waterfront. Paddling past luxury yachts, tall ships, and fishing boats, you get a fresh perspective on the city’s maritime life. The highlight is paddling under fishing wharves and enjoying on-water dining with fish and chips from your kayak—a fun, relaxed way to see the city from the water. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of adventure and aren’t shy about getting wet. The reviews are glowing, with a 4.8/5 rating, praising the scenic views and the friendly guide. Be prepared for some physical activity, but the experience offers a unique vantage point of Hobart’s harbor.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers seeking a memorable, unconventional view of Hobart’s waterfront.

5. 48 Hour Hobart City Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Number 5 is the official city bus tour, offering 48 hours of flexible exploration. With 20 stops along a 90-minute loop, you can hop on and off at attractions like Salamanca Place, Battery Point, and the Royal Botanical Gardens. The open-top bus provides excellent views, and the multilingual commentary enriches your understanding of Hobart’s sites. It’s perfect if you want the freedom to explore at your own pace, spending more time at places that catch your interest. Reviewers appreciate the detailed commentary and scenic routes, making it ideal for first-time visitors or families. The ticket’s long duration offers lasting flexibility, especially for those who want to spread their sightseeing over a couple of days.
Bottom Line: A flexible, family-friendly way to see Hobart on your own schedule.

6. Hobart City Private Charter Service (3 days in advance)

At number 6, a private 7-hour charter offers an intimate way to explore Hobart’s surrounds. This customizable tour includes Mt Wellington, Richmond, Oyster Farms, and Cascade Brewery. The guide tailors the experience based on your interests, making it ideal for travelers who want a personalized day out. Reviews praise the driver’s flexibility and local knowledge, with one noting how the guide adjusted the day to fit their schedule. The $860 per group rate makes it a good value for couples or small groups wanting a private, hassle-free day. The scenic stops, especially the panoramic views from Mt Wellington, are a highlight.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers craving tailored experiences and private comfort.

7. Hobart City Sightseeing Tour including MONA Admission

Another comprehensive option, this 8-hour tour combines city sights with a visit to MONA, including a scenic cruise. Starting with stops at Cascade Gardens, the Royal Botanical Gardens, and the MONA, this tour immerses you in Hobart’s cultural and artistic appeal. The guide’s local insights add depth, and the ferry ride is a scenic highlight. Reviews are very positive, emphasizing the value of combining city and art experiences in one day. The included MONA admission and cruise make this a cost-effective way to enjoy Hobart’s highlights in depth.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full day of art, culture, and scenic cruising.

8. Mt Wellington and Hobart City Sights

Number 8 is a combined 48-hour ticket providing hop-on, hop-off access to Mt Wellington and the city. It features a summit visit and stops at the River Derwent, Tasman Bridge, and other key spots. The flexible schedule allows you to spend as long as you like at each stop, with guided commentary en route. Reviewers note the quality of the guides and the stunning views from the summit, making it a top pick for those who want both scenic vistas and urban exploration. The bus tour is especially convenient for travelers who want a relaxed, self-paced experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for those who want to combine mountain views with city sights at their own pace.

9. Hobart City Flight Including Mt Wellington and Derwent River

For a different perspective, number 9 offers a 30-minute scenic flight over Hobart. Flying over the city, River Derwent, Mt Wellington, and Clifton Beach, this experience is limited to only 10 passengers, ensuring personalized service. It’s perfect for those wanting an unforgettable memory and aerial views of Hobart’s landscape. The reviews often mention how stunning the views are, especially from the air, and it’s a rare chance to see the city from above. The short duration makes it ideal for a quick but impactful highlight of your trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for an exclusive, breathtaking view of Hobart from the sky.

10. Hobart Half-Day Sightseeing City Tour

Number 10 offers a half-day tour that packs in key sights like the Botanical Gardens, Battery Point, and the Female Factory. Using an old-fashioned tram-bus hybrid, this tour is a straightforward way to get a broad overview of Hobart’s different neighborhoods. The live commentary makes it engaging, and the stops are chosen for their historical and visual appeal. Reviewers remark that the tour is good value, especially for those with limited time, with one calling it a “great way to see Hobart.” It’s particularly suitable for budget-conscious travelers wanting a guided overview.
Bottom Line: A solid, economical option for a quick introduction to Hobart’s highlights.

11-13. Private Transfers (from/to Ports and Hotels)

For travelers with a tight schedule, these private transfer services guarantee smooth, door-to-door transportation between Hobart hotels and cruise ports, including Arthur Cruise Port. The services are straightforward, reliable, and eliminate waiting in long taxis or shuttles, with professional drivers waiting for you at your specified time. Pricing varies from about $75 to $120 per person, depending on the route. They’re practical options that ensure your travel prep goes smoothly, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or arriving/departing by cruise.
Bottom Line: Stress-free, private transportation for cruise travelers and hotel guests.

14. Hobart Shore Excursion- Open Top City Explorer Tour 9.30am

Number 14 is a short, open-top bus tour that begins at 9:30 am and lasts about 1.5 hours. It’s perfect for cruise ship passengers or those who want a quick, scenic ride through Hobart’s highlights, including Salamanca Place, Battery Point, and Nutgrove Beach. The open-top design allows for excellent photo opportunities while sitting back on a comfortable double-decker. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and the knowledgeable driver-guide, making it a good choice if you’re short on time but still want to see the city comfortably.
Bottom Line: Handy for cruise passengers seeking a brief, scenic overview.

15. Hobart City and Richmond Heritage Shore Excursion

Finally, number 15 offers a 4-hour scenic drive focusing on both Hobart and Richmond. It includes stops at Mount Nelson Lookout, for panoramic views, and the historic Richmond Bridge, Australia’s oldest stone bridge. The tour takes you through rolling countryside, with commentary on Hobart’s colonial past and current life. With a 3-star review based on one review, it’s a more relaxed, less structured option, ideal for those interested in heritage and scenic drives. This tour suits travelers wanting a taste of both city life and historic villages in a short time.
Bottom Line: Great for history and scenery lovers who want a guided, relaxed journey.

How to Choose Your Perfect Hobart Tour

When choosing a tour, consider your budget, time available, and what interests you most. For a quick overview, the Hobart History, People & Places is an excellent starting point. If you want a mix of art and scenery, the MONA-inclusive tours will give you a full cultural experience. Active travelers might prefer the kayak tour, while those with more time should consider the full-day MONA trip.

Things to keep in mind: book early during peak seasons, and consider weather when planning outdoor or water-based tours. For scenic flights or private charters, confirm availability well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during busy months.

Hobart’s range of city tours offers something for every type of traveler—whether you’re after a quick historical walk, a scenic cruise, an active kayak adventure, or a flexible hop-on-hop-off bus experience. For a memorable trip, pick a tour that matches your interests and schedule. With so many options, you’ll find ways to enjoy the city’s charm and character, often with a local guide’s insightful commentary in tow. Booking early is wise to ensure your spot, especially for unique experiences like the MONA visit or scenic flights. Happy exploring in this surprisingly diverse Tasmanian city.