3 day Tasmanian highlights tour Hobart, Port Arthur and Bruny Island

Planning a trip to Tasmania and want to see its most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail? This 3-day highlights tour from Hobart might be just what you’re looking for. Designed for travelers eager to experience a mix of history, wildlife, culture, and breathtaking scenery, this guided group tour offers a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s best in a manageable timeframe.

What we love about this experience? First, it provides a thoughtfully curated itinerary that hits all the must-see spots—without feeling rushed. Second, the tour’s guides consistently earn praise for their knowledge and engaging personalities, turning factual stops into memorable stories. On the flip side, one consideration is the day’s timing, especially early mornings and long drives, which may be tiring if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited mobility.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Tasmania with the convenience of local expertise and the flexibility to choose their own accommodations in Hobart. If your goal is to maximize sightseeing within a short stay, and you appreciate authentic experiences with a touch of local flavor, this tour should be on your list.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Covers three major destinations—Hobart, Bruny Island, and Port Arthur—in just three days.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and engaging guides enhance every stop, sharing stories and local insights.
• Flexible options: Freedom to select your preferred accommodation in Hobart for each night.
• Rich scenery and wildlife: From mountain views to island beaches, and wildlife encounters, there’s plenty of natural beauty.
• Historical depth: Visits to convict sites and heritage towns provide meaningful context.
• Taste of local produce: Cheese, oysters, and chocolates offer delicious tastings at notable stops.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary and Experience

Day 1: Exploring Hobart and Surroundings

Starting off in Hobart, the tour kicks with a city highlights drive. While the streets are usually quiet early in the morning, you’ll get a glimpse of the charming colonial and sandstone architecture that gives Hobart its understated elegance. The tour offers a comfortable way to see the city’s core without the fuss of navigating on your own.

Next, the ascent to Mount Wellington (Kunanyi) is a highlight. Climbing up to 1,272 meters, you’ll breathe in some of Tasmania’s finest air and enjoy sweeping views of Hobart and its surrounds. The trek offers more than just a photo op; it’s an opportunity to appreciate Tasmania’s rugged terrain and natural beauty. The included admission ensures you’re comfortably taken care of, and many reviewers remark on how spectacular the vantage points are.

A visit to Salamanca Market on Saturdays is a must for anyone interested in local culture. This bustling market is a showcase of art, produce, and lively buskers, making it a perfect spot for snapping photos, buying souvenirs, or tasting some local treats. If you visit on a Saturday, you’ll find yourself immersed in the vibrant Tasmanian community—something reviewers frequently praise.

A drive to the historic Richmond township offers a taste of Australia’s colonial past. Known for its oldest bridge and Catholic church, Richmond’s cobblestone streets and quaint shops evoke a time when convicts and settlers shaped the landscape. Reviewers enjoy this stop, noting the bespoke shops and eateries that add charm to the visit.

A sweet finale on Day 1 is a visit to the Wicked Cheese Co., where free sampling of award-winning Tasmanian cheese keeps everyone smiling. This stop demonstrates how small local producers excel here, adding flavor to your overall experience.

Finally, a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a highlight for wildlife lovers. Seeing Tasmanian Devils, kangaroos, and other native animals close-up makes this a memorable stop. While the entrance fee isn’t included, many travelers find the experience well worth it, especially with guides sharing fascinating facts about Australian fauna.

Day 2: Bruny Island – Nature and Culinary Delights

Day 2 takes you to Bruny Island, renowned for its stunning landscapes and wildlife. The journey begins with a walk through Mavista Falls, where a short, 20-minute trail leads you into a lush temperate rainforest. “The crisp air and greenery were invigorating,” I read, and it’s a gentle way to start the island day.

Next, you explore Cape Bruny, home to the second oldest lighthouse in Australia. The tower provides a scenic backdrop and a chance to learn about maritime history. The included time here allows for photos and exploration, although some reviews mention that more time might be appreciated.

The Neck lookout offers a panoramic, 360-degree view of Bruny Island, the Tasman Sea, and surrounding landmarks. Many visitors comment on how iconic this view is, capturing the essence of Bruny’s wild landscape.

For foodies, the Get Shucked Oyster Bar is a highlight—sampling fresh oysters is practically mandatory, and many reviewers rave about the quality and flavor. On the return trip, a stop at the Bruny Island Cheese Company offers more tastings and the chance to purchase local cheeses, adding a delicious, savory note to your day.

Day 3: Port Arthur and Scenic Highlights

The final day focuses on Port Arthur, Tasmania’s most famous historic site. En route, a quick stop at Eaglehawk Neck takes in pirate bay views and the Dog Line monument—perfect for photos and learning about Tasmania’s guard against escaping convicts.

Next, chocolate lovers will appreciate a visit to the Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry, where you can indulge your sweet tooth. This stop isn’t just about tasting; it also showcases Tasmania’s craftsmanship in handmade chocolates.

A visit to the Port Arthur Lavender Farm offers fragrant serenity and a chance to buy lavender-based products. The scenic trail is an added bonus, providing a peaceful break before heading into the historic site.

The Port Arthur Historic Site itself is the tour’s centerpiece, where you can walk through Australia’s most intact penal settlement. While the entry fee isn’t included, many travelers find the guided tour and preserved buildings well worth the admission. A guided walk helps bring the history alive, making it more than just ruins.

A final stop at Remarkable Cave offers stunning views of Maingon Bay and some dramatic coastline scenery. The descent down 115 steps reveals extraordinary rock formations and vistas praised by visitors as “spectacular.”

What Our Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides. Comments like “Mark, the second tour guide, was awesome and really helpful” and “every guide was exceptional: knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate” underscore how vital good guides are to this experience.

Many highlight the stunning scenery, from Mount Wellington’s panoramic views to Bruny Island’s beaches and the rugged coastlines near Remarkable Cave. Wildlife encounters at Bonorong are also a crowd favorite, especially for those interested in Australian animals.

Food and local produce are clearly a highlight. Multiple reviews mention the cheese tastings, oysters, chocolates, and lavender, with many noting the quality and authenticity of the offerings.

Some critics note that the itinerary is a little tight, especially with early mornings and some long drives, but the majority find it a worthwhile way to see Tasmania efficiently. The maximum group size of 20 ensures a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, and the flexible accommodation options in Hobart allow you to tailor your stay.

What Could Be Improved?

A few reviews mention that sometimes the itinerary doesn’t exactly match the published plan—something to keep in mind if you’re particular about every stop. Also, the timing at some locations, like Port Arthur, might feel rushed for those wanting a deeper dive into the site’s history.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 3-day Tasmanian highlights tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, history, wildlife, and local flavor. Its price, around $337 per person, reflects the value of guided insights, entrance fees, and the convenience of an organized trip—saving you the hassle of planning each detail.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Tasmania. If you’re short on time but eager to see the best, this tour packs a lot into just a few days. The emphasis on authentic experiences, such as cheese tastings and wildlife encounters, makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an immersion into the local character.

The guides’ reputation for being knowledgeable and personable enhances the overall experience, helping you connect with Tasmania’s natural beauty and history. The flexibility in choosing accommodations allows you to indulge in your preferred style of stay, whether budget or boutique.

To sum it up, this tour strikes a good balance between depth and convenience, perfect for first-timers or those wanting a memorable snapshot of Tasmania’s highlights. Just be prepared for some early starts and long days—your reward will be a well-rounded, scenic, and educational adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is used throughout the tour, and pickup and drop-off from selected Hobart CBD hotels are included.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a friendly atmosphere and personalized experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Some attractions, like Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and Port Arthur, include entrance fees. Others, like the Port Arthur Historic Site and Cape Bruny Lighthouse tours, are paid separately.

Can I customize my accommodation?
Yes, you can choose your preferred accommodation in Hobart for each night, giving you flexibility to tailor your stay.

What’s the best day to take this tour?
The tour always runs on Saturdays to include Salamanca Market. If you start on a Thursday or Friday, you may do Bruny Island and Port Arthur first.

Is vegetarian or special dietary accommodation available?
The brochure doesn’t specify, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have special dietary needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and a sense of adventure. Some stops involve outdoor walking and scenic viewpoints.

In sum, this tour offers an authentic and engaging way to see Tasmania’s highlights in just three days. With the right expectations, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation of this island state’s natural beauty, history, and local character—an excellent choice for first-time visitors eager to make the most of their trip.