Ultimate 5-day Guide for an Epic Road Trip from Hobart | Motorhome Republic

Searching for the ultimate Tasmania itinerary? 5 days of captivating landscapes, cultural discoveries and unforgettable experiences await you on the Apple Isle. If you’re considering visiting the land under Down Under, you’ve come to the right place. Our comprehensive guide has all the goods on the incredible scenery and outdoor adventures waiting for you in the island state of Tasmania, Australia.

Not only have we crafted the perfect itinerary for 5 days in Tasmania for you, but we'll also cover time, distance and must-do activities.

How many days do you need in Tasmania?

If you want to take your time and take a road trip across the entire state, you need at least 10 to 14 days in Tasmania. However, this guide assumes that—like most travellers—you are short on time and want to see all the highlights you can with the days you have.

What are the most exciting places to visit on a 5-day Tassie tour?

Check out this list of fantastic destinations accessible from Hobart. Once you know your must-see attractions, you can choose one of three magnificent 5-day Tasmania itineraries to suit your family campervan road trip.

Hobart

No matter your route, it’s worth spending time getting acquainted with Tasmania’s beautiful capital city. Visit these hotspots that rival those of mainland Australia to keep the whole family entertained.

Wander the Waterfront

Admire the converted colonial buildings around the city and eclectic shops at Constitution Dock and head straight to Elizabeth Street Pier for a tasty feed of fish n’ chips. If the little ones behave, you can treat them to a visit to a local favourite—VDL Creamery.

Kunanyi / Mount Wellington

Mount Wellington is the perfect opportunity to admire Hobart from above, and its summit is just 30 minutes from the city centre. Opt for the one-hour Organ Pipes Track or one of the other many family-friendly walking and biking trails. This is an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs before a long drive in the campervan.

Puddleduck Vineyard

This family-friendly vineyard sits just 20 minutes outside of Hobart. The little ones can admire the duck pond and tucker themselves out at the playground while parents sample a glass of wine or two from Southern Tasmania’s Coal River Valley wine region.

The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

Kids will adore the interactive displays at this interesting and offbeat museum, including a ‘poo machine’ and a fountain that drops words made out of water from above. It’s different; it’s fun, and it’s a perfect pit stop on your Tasmania itinerary. The MONA is open Friday through Monday, and bookings are essential.

Freycinet National Park

Perhaps the most celebrated park in Tasmania, Freycinet offers visitors white sandy beaches, craggy granite mountains, azure blue waters and much more. Experience dreamy views and nature at its finest.

Coles Bay

Framed by the iconic pink granite peaks known as The Hazards, this idyllic coastal town is the gateway to one of the world's most breathtaking landscapes. With its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, Coles Bay is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Enjoy exhilarating hikes to Wineglass Bay lookout for stunning views of Great Oyster Bay. Indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants, and as the day ends, admire how the sunset casts its gentle colours across the sky.

Wineglass Bay

An iconic destination on most Tasmania itineraries, Wineglass Bay, draws tourists the world over. It's considered one of the world’s best beaches and offers tonnes of adventures for families to enjoy. If you’re looking for a challenging hike, head to the Mount Amos lookout point. However, this walk should only be undertaken by physically fit and experienced hikers when the weather forecast promises sunshine, as the summit is exposed and subject to changeable weather conditions.

Cape Tourville Lighthouse and Lookout

This cruisy 600-metre walk is accessible by wheelchair and prams. Take your time enjoying this scenic boardwalk, as the views are simply breathtaking.

Honeymoon Bay

Honeymoon Bay is a sheltered cove that provides a calm and shallow swimming spot for families. The shallow water also makes it a little warmer for swimming than other parts of the park.

Port Arthur Historic Site

Gain insight into Tasmania’s convict history at Port Arthur on your 5-day Tasmania road trip. A place of storytelling and sightseeing, this 18th and 19th-century heritage site is brimming with intrigue.

Port Arthur Historic Site logistics

The Port Arthur Historic Site covers over 40 hectares (100 acres) of open land on the Tasman Peninsula. You will spend most of your time outdoors, so consider this when planning your outfit and footwear. Pack a pram for the wee ones, as they (and parents) will likely tire out quickly with the wide open spaces of this historical site. You will find food options to suit any palate. Book ahead for your visit.

Tours

Choose from multiple tours to explore the settlement, from a walking-true-crime adventure tour to a journey-into-past-lives cemetery tour. Prepare to be entertained, thrilled and moved.

Family-friendly activities

Discover interesting secrets of Port Arthur through the ‘Hidden Stories’ Activity Book. This is an excellent way for children to explore the site and learn about Port Arthur’s history as they search for answers, complete puzzles, and collect stamps. The activity book is free of charge and suitable for ages 7-12. When you arrive at the Port Arthur Visitor Centre, ask for a copy at the ticketing desk.

Cradle Mountain - Lake St. Clair National Park

A destination for all seasons, Cradle Mountain, is a hotspot for outdoor adventurers. If hiking and wildlife watching are high on your list, add this stunning location to your Tasmania itinerary from Hobart.

Cradle Mountain Walks

St. Clair National Park offers a world-class system of walking trails, including very short strolls to suit little legs, like the Enchanted Walk. The breathtaking landscapes are worth the hike.

Tasmanian wildlife

This spectacular national park provides the opportunity to encounter Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidna, wombats and the highly inquisitive black currawong. Don’t miss your chance!

Bay of Fires Conservation Area

Fire-coloured lichen encrusted on granite boulders gives this dreamy bay its name, but the vibrant orange hue against a backdrop of powder-white sand and turquoise water gives it its legendary status. A visit here offers a feast for the senses in the most relaxing way possible.

Beach walking

Meander along a string of breathtakingly beautiful beaches interspersed by lagoons and rocky bluffs. Soak up the spectacular views and experience a supremely unique seaside stroll.

Binalong Bay

The area's main beach is a beautiful spot for swimming or surfing. Abundant marine life and clear waters around the offshore reefs also make for terrific diving and snorkelling.

Launceston

The second-largest city in Tasmania offers a beautiful blend of urban delights and rugged wilderness. Its heritage as one of the oldest settlements in Australia is displayed through its architecture. Launceston’s modern status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy can be sampled at one of the many fantastic restaurants or by picking up some local produce at the famous Saturday farmers market.

Cataract Gorge Reserve

The Cataract Gorge Reserve (known locally as the Gorge) is an unexpected urban treat. Just 2 minutes from Launceston CBD (or 15 minutes walking), this natural formation offers walking and hiking trails, the world's longest single-span chairlift, a swimming pool, a restaurant, a kiosk, a coffee shop, wildlife, gardens, a suspension bridge, an inclinator for easy access, an Interpretation Centre and panoramic lookouts with spectacular views. Entry is free.

Tamar Island Wetlands Walk

Explore a unique Australian ecosystem just 10 minutes north of Launceston. Visit the Interpretation Centre to learn about this fascinating ecosystem, comprising islands, mudflats, and lagoons. Wander along the stroller-friendly 1.5-kilometre boardwalk (one way) to Tamar Island. The little ones will love a walk through this natural habitat to view a diverse collection of birds, mammals, frogs, fish and other marine life.

Bicheno

This seaside sanctuary is a relaxing small town on the east coast of Tasmania. Seafood lovers must make room for it on their 5-day Tassie tour.

Governor Island Marine Reserve

Take a trip to the sea to enjoy incredible snorkelling and diving opportunities provided by the temperate waters and vibrant reefs offshore Bicheno. Or, if you prefer to stay dry, take a glass-bottom boat tour!

East Coast Nature World

Enjoy Tasmania’s wildlife up close with the intimate and interactive experiences provided by this long-time-running park. The variety of birds, animals and flora will enthral the kids, and the pram-friendly boardwalks make it easy for everyone to participate.

Bruny Island

Attention, foodies! The sensational local produce unique to this region makes this a must-see destination on your 5-day itinerary from Hobart. A 20-minute ferry ride will bring you to this pair of spectacular islands—North and South Bruny. Enjoy fantastic food such as fresh honey, cheese, chocolate and more.

Truganini Lookout

A short drive and a bit of physical effort will get you to the magnificent view that is The Neck—a narrow, long isthmus connecting the north and south ends of Bruny Island. Enjoy 360-degree views of both sides of the neck, the islands and mainland Tasmania.

Where should I go on my 5-day itinerary from Hobart?

Now that you’re armed with all the most popular places to visit, it’s time to narrow down your options to cover Tasmania in 5 days, starting from Hobart. We have listed three potential trips covering various highlights, suiting different travel styles. We recommend securing campervan hire in Hobart well in advance, no matter which route you take.

5-day Tasmania itinerary from Hobart - Option 1

See everything you can

This 5-day Tasmania road trip itinerary from Hobart covers a lot of ground. While you will have limited time to explore, you will have a chance to visit the state’s two largest cities and its most incredible natural wonders.

• Strahan

• West Coast

• Cradle Mountain

• Launceston

• Bicheno

• Freycinet National Park

• Hobart

Day 1: Hobart to Strahan (4.25 hours)

• Stop in Russell Falls

• Stop in Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

• Stop in Queenstown

• Explore Strahan

Day 2: Strahan to Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park (2 hours)

• Explore Strahan

• Explore the West Coast

Day 3: Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park to Launceston (2 hours 10 min)

• Explore Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park

• Explore Launceston

Day 4: Launceston to Bicheno (2 hours)

• Explore Launceston

• Explore Bicheno

Day 5: Bicheno to Hobart (2 hours 10 min)

• Explore Freycinet National Park

• Stop in Swansea

• Stop in Orford

• Explore Hobart

5-day Tasmania itinerary from Hobart - Option 2

East Coast Bliss

This 5 days in Tasmania itinerary from Hobart focuses on the East Coast, offering the chance to enjoy the state’s most celebrated seaside delights and its most famous national parks.

• Maria Island National Park

• Orford

• Swansea

• Freycinet National Park

• St. Helens

• Bay of Fires

Day 1: Hobart to Orford (1 hour)

• Explore Hobart

• Explore Maria Island National Park

Day 2: Orford to Swansea (40 mins)

• Explore Orford

• Explore Swansea

Day 3: Swansea to Freycinet National Park (30 mins)

• Explore Freycinet National Park

Day 4: Freycinet National Park to St Helens (1 hour)

• Explore St Helens

Day 5: St. Helens to Hobart (4 hours)

• Explore Bay of Fires

5-day Tasmania itinerary from Hobart - Option 3

A bit of everything

This Tassie road trip itinerary introduces you to some of the most exciting aspects of the state, including jaw-dropping scenery, historical intrigue and phenomenal food.

• Bicheno

• Freycinet National Park

• Port Arthur

• Tasman Island

• Bruny Island

Day 1: Hobart to Bicheno (3 hours)

• Explore Bicheno

Day 2: Bicheno to Freycinet National Park (10 minutes)

• Explore Freycinet National Park

Day 3: Drive to Port Arthur (3 hours)

• Explore Tasman National Park

• Explore Port Arthur

Day 4: Drive Port Arthur to Bruny Island (3 hours)

• Explore Bruny Island

Day 5: Drive Bruny Island to Hobart (2 hours)

• Explore Hobart

Why a campervan is the best way to travel

Tasmania’s well-kept roads, modern facilities and incredible natural attractions make it one of the most ideal locations for campervan travel. Plus, with a Hobart motorhome, you can:

• Save time. You can get out on the road sooner and cover much more ground without having to pack and unpack each day.

• Save money. Combining your transportation and accommodation into one expense makes visiting in a motorhome a more affordable option as you can budget more efficiently. Plus, cooking facilities in the campervan allow for lower food expenditure.

• Recharge. Tasmania offers an abundance of jaw-dropping scenery and phenomenal outdoor activities. Camping gives families and friends a better chance to spend more time in nature.

• Make memories. Camping trips allow for quality time that is unlike any other holiday. The shared space and adventurous activities provide the perfect conditions for family bonding.

Tasmania provides one of the most unique environments for camping in Australia. Maximise your 5-day itinerary for Tasmania by renting a motorhome that suits your individual plans.

Where to stay

On your 5-day Tasmania road trip itinerary from Hobart, you’ll need to know great places to park your campervan or motorhome once you arrive at your destination to spend the night. Below is a list of the most highly-rated campground sites near the state’s best attractions, perfect for those visiting in a campervan.

Freycinet National Park Campground

Camping in Freycinet is in high demand, particularly over the summer months and at Easter. Due to the popularity of these campsites, a ballot system operates for camping between 18 December to 10 February and Easter. During this period, visitors can only book a maximum of 10 nights. Outside of this period, there is a maximum 14-night stay. ​ See booking information for details.

• The Richardsons Beach Campground (adjacent to the visitor centre) has accessible toilets and 18 powered sites to suit small campervans and motorhomes.

Fortescue Bay at Tasman National Park

The beauty and accessibility of this campground make it a popular choice for Tasmania itineraries year-round. Bookings are recommended from November through April but are not required in the off-season. This is a pocket of paradise with spectacular scenery, white sandy beaches, exotic wildlife, sparkling clear water, and much more.

• ​​Mill Creek Campground has large sites suitable for campervans and motorhomes. Generators are permitted here but must be switched off by 9 pm.

Big4 Launceston

Conveniently located in the heart of Launceston, this is a comfortable base for the activities and attractions in the area. From here, you are within walking distance of Cataract Gorge, markets, museums, wilderness walks, winery day tours and outdoor adventures.​​​​​

• ​​You have several powered sites to choose from, and the grounds offer wireless internet, a brand new amenities block, a children's playground including a giant jumping pillow, barbecues and a camp kitchen.

Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain National Park

This campground is the perfect base to explore this stunning area, immersed in the Tasmanian wilderness. You could easily spend half a day discovering enchanting waterfalls, flourishing rainforests and serene glacial lakes. Enjoy a guided or non-guided tour for all fitness levels, canoe tours, horseback trail rides and helicopter flights. Learn about local wildlife, walk the Dove Lake Circuit, and meet resident Tasmanian Devils.

• ​​Powered sites for motorhomes and campgrounds sit amongst beautiful tall trees and lush vegetation near laundry facilities, WiFI, BBQ, a camp kitchen and a kiosk/store. Note that the park is currently undergoing facility upgrades.

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Now that you know the most beautiful parts of the Apple Isle and how much you can see in five days. In Tasmania, your motorhome journey becomes a magical odyssey, weaving you through rugged landscapes, ancient forests and charming towns, where each curve of the road reveals a new chapter of this island's captivating story. Browse motorhome rentals from Motorhome Republic and make the most of your next holiday in Australia or abroad.