Tasmania 5 Day East Coast Tour

Planning a trip to Tasmania and wondering how to make the most of its beautiful east coast? This 5-day guided tour by Fun Tassie Tours offers a well-balanced mix of scenic vistas, cultural insights, and delicious local tastings—all wrapped into a small-group experience that promises plenty of personal attention. While it isn’t a budget trip, the value lies in the thoughtfully curated itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see some of Tasmania’s most iconic sights without the stress of planning.

We love how this tour balances stunning landscapes with cultural stories, making it perfect for travelers who want more than just a checklist of attractions. The inclusion of local tastings—cheese, wine, oysters, and beer—adds a flavorful dimension that makes the experience truly memorable. Plus, staying in a stylish hotel like the Movenpick in Hobart gives that touch of comfort and convenience.

One thing to keep in mind: since this is a small-group tour (max 15 guests), it’s less suitable for travelers seeking total independence or those who prefer large, free-flowing itineraries. This tour caters best to curious travelers who enjoy guided insights and a bit of social interaction, with enough flexibility to explore at a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Small group size allows for personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Includes most meals, tastings, and attraction fees, providing good value for the price.
• Variety of stops: from historic sites and natural landmarks to local wineries and wildlife encounters.
• Expert guides make the journey engaging with stories and insights, not just facts.
• Stunning vistas: panoramic views from Mount Wellington and coastal cliffs at Tasman National Park.
• Ideal for travelers who appreciate a balance of sightseeing, local flavor, and comfort.

An Introduction to the Tour

This 5-day Tasmanian adventure is designed for travelers wanting to explore the island’s eastern highlights comfortably, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. From Hobart’s vibrant cityscape to the rugged coastline of Bay of Fires, the tour offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture—all curated to give you a genuine taste of Tasmania.

What truly makes this tour stand out are the stunning views and authentic tastings. Whether it’s sampling freshly shucked oysters, savoring local wines, or wandering through historic sites, you’ll find yourself immersed in Tasmania’s unique character. We especially like that most meals and several tastings are included, easing the stress of additional expenses and making it easier to focus on enjoying the scenery and conversations.

A potential consideration: the tour involves some early mornings and walking at outdoor sites, so it’s best suited to those with moderate mobility and a reasonable level of fitness. The price, at just over $1,500 per person, might seem steep, but considering the included meals, tastings, entrance fees, and hotel accommodation, it offers solid value—especially for travelers who prefer guided comfort over DIY planning.

This tour is perfect for small groups, solo travelers, couples, and anyone eager to dive into Tasmania’s highlights without the hassle of car rentals or extensive research. If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Tasmania’s east coast, this trip should be on your shortlist.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arriving in Hobart

Landing in Hobart, you can settle into the stylish Movenpick Hotel, positioned centrally for easy exploration on foot. The hotel’s modern and comfortable setting starts your trip on a high note. Since check-in is available from 1 pm, you have plenty of time to unwind or take a leisurely stroll around Hobart.

Day 2: City Highlights and Mount Wellington

The day kicks off with a walk around Constitution Dock, where you’ll see a replica of Mawson’s Hut and statues commemorating the first Antarctic expeditions—an intriguing start to understanding Tasmania’s connection to polar exploration. The guided tour then whisks you through the charming Salamanca Square and Battery Point, giving a glimpse into Hobart’s historic past.

Moving on, you’ll see the Cascade Brewery, Australia’s oldest operating brewery, offering a taste of local brewing history—and some great photo ops. The ascent to Mount Wellington at 1275 meters promises panoramic views of Hobart and beyond, a highlight that travelers repeatedly praise. The sweeping vistas from the summit are impressive enough to make you forget the climb.

Crossing the Tasman Bridge, you’ll head to the Eastern Shore, where a delicious lunch at Puddleduck Vineyard awaits. The platter of local produce paired with complimentary wines ensures you get a real taste of Tasmania’s rich agricultural scene. Later, a visit to Richmond Bridge, built by convicts in 1823, offers a picturesque peek into early colonial engineering, and the Denison Canal provides another lovely photo stop with its early 1900s design.

The afternoon includes a visit to Pirates Bay/Eaglehawk Neck, where a scenic lookout provides breathtaking coastal views, and a walk on the Tessellated Pavement—an unusual geological formation of cracked rocks on the water’s edge. The day concludes at Tasman National Park, where Tasman’s Arch and other coastal formations showcase Tasmania’s volcanic and erosional history, leaving visitors in awe of nature’s artistry.

Day 3: Port Arthur and Maria Island

The highlight of day three is the Port Arthur Historic Site, where a personalized 3-hour guided tour offers deep insights into Tasmania’s convict past. Walking through the well-preserved buildings and scenic vantage points makes history tangible. The site’s atmospheric ruins and stories of survival and hardship stand out as one of the most meaningful parts of the trip.

After, a visit to Federation Chocolates lets you indulge in hand-made sweets, with ample tasting opportunities. The nearby Port Arthur Lavender Farm charms visitors with its fields of fragrant purple blooms and a cozy gift shop.

On the way to Bicheno, you’ll pass Maria Island, which is known for its wild landscapes and healthy devil populations. Although not a stop for a long visit, the coastal views from Raspin’s Beach are memorable.

Finally, the day ends with a visit to Spiky Bridge, an unusual and quirky construction built by convicts, and a guided penguin-spotting tour at Bicheno, where you’ll see these charming creatures waddling ashore in their natural habitat—an experience many reviews describe as “wild” and “up-close”.

Day 4: Coastal Beauty and Wildlife

The morning begins again at Bicheno with another look at the Blowhole, which can spout water over 25 feet in the daylight hours, making for dramatic photos.

Next, you visit East Coast Natureworld, an animal sanctuary that houses Tasmania’s native species, many rescued or bred on-site. The guided tour offers insight into wildlife conservation efforts and a chance to see animals like wombats and devils.

After lunch, your journey takes you to the Bay of Fires, famed for its white sands, turquoise waters, and fiery red rocks—arguably one of the most photogenic spots in Australia. It’s a perfect place for a gentle walk and some memorable photos.

You’ll stop in St Helens for fresh oyster tastings at Lease 65 Oyster Farm, a true treat for seafood lovers. Then, at Pyengana Dairy, you’ll enjoy cheese tastings and learn about their robotic dairy farm—an interesting insight into modern dairy practices.

The afternoon wraps up with a scenic drive through the rainforest, featuring giant Myrtle trees and lush ferns, and a visit to the Legerwood Memorial Tree Carvings—trees transformed into carvings depicting poignant stories of war heroes, all carved by chainsaw.

Day 5: Relaxed Morning in Launceston

Your final morning is free to explore Launceston at your own pace. The tour concludes by 11 am, giving you time to wander the city’s parks, shops, or relax at your hotel before heading onward.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The guides play a crucial role, with reviews emphasizing their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share stories that bring each stop to life. One reviewer called Morgan the “best driver/guide” they’ve encountered in seven countries, highlighting the personal touch and professionalism.

The stunning scenery is another recurring theme. From Mount Wellington’s panoramic views to the rugged Tasmanian coastline, travelers rave about the photo opportunities and natural beauty packed into each day.

The local tastings—wine at Puddleduck, oysters in St Helens, chocolates at Federation—are thoughtful inclusions that elevate the experience beyond sightseeing. These tastings are often mentioned as highlights, offering a tangible connection to Tasmania’s food culture.

Value for money is another strong point, considering that most meals, attraction fees, and tastings are included, alongside comfortable hotel stays. While the tour price may seem hefty, reviewers agree that the comprehensive itinerary and expert guide make it worthwhile.

The Sum Up

This Tasmania 5-Day East Coast Tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the island’s highlights. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided trips, small-group intimacy, and a mix of natural beauty and cultural stories. With included meals, tastings, and an expert guide, it offers good value for those willing to invest in a seamless, enriching experience.

If you’re after a trip that balances enchanting scenery, local flavors, and historical insights—and you prefer traveling with a small group—this tour will meet and often exceed expectations. The combination of expert guidance, diverse stops, and comfortable accommodations makes it a practical choice for first-time visitors to Tasmania or those wanting a curated sampling of the island’s best.

FAQs

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, all transportation between stops is included, and the tour is led by a driver-guide. The vehicle is comfortable and suited for scenic drives and outdoor stops.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 15, which allows for a more personalized experience and easier social interactions.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included, including breakfast every day, three lunches, and several tastings of local products like cheese, wine, oysters, and chocolates.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a guided tour with a fixed schedule, it’s best to follow the planned itinerary. However, the small group size means guides can often accommodate minor preferences or questions.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect stunning views from Mount Wellington, historic sites like Richmond Bridge and Port Arthur, coastal formations at Tasman National Park, and wildlife encounters at East Coast Natureworld and Bicheno.

Is the tour suitable during all seasons?
While the tour runs year-round, Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable. Packing layers and rain gear is recommended, especially for outdoor stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and a sense of curiosity. The tour includes scenic outdoor stops, so be prepared for some walking and exposure to the elements.

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated, authentic taste of Tasmania’s east coast—perfect for those seeking natural beauty, local flavors, and insightful guides.