Hobart is the small, intimate capital of Tasmania, a state covering great swathes of pristine wilderness. These days its metropolitan area spreads out along the beautiful Derwent River and into some spectacular countryside, but it was built as Australia's second city, founded as a penal colony, and so its colonial history provides another reason to visit. And some of the best places to stay in Hobart have been converted from the city's early colonial buildings.

What Not To Miss

• Hobart's Docks have been enjoying a regeneration and there are some great pubs and restaurants, many of them serving local beer and wine from the Tamar Valley.
• The picturesque warehouses of Salamanca Place and the old warren of alleys of Battery Point are the main streets when it comes to foodie treasure troves, and on Saturday there's a fantastic market in Salamanca Place - so don't drive into town on a Saturday!
• Foodies have further treats to enjoy within the Gothic grandeur of the Cascade Brewery or on the grounds of the Moorilla Estate.
• Hobart is also home to the Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery, a museum to the 1911-14 Australasian Antarctic Expedition, several museums uncovering Hobart's penal history, and MONA, called by its owner ''a subversive adult Disneyland", where antiques are displayed next to modern art in a provocative way.
• Behind Hobart is Mt. Wellington, a rocky tor much loved by bushwalkers and mountain bikers, so you don't need to go far to get out into the great outdoors.

The best places to stay in Hobart provide excellent bases from which to explore this fascinating city and the surrounding area.

The best places to stay in Hobart

For a city break

• The Henry Jones Art Hotel is Australia's first 'art hotel'; a hip, stylish space converted from an 1820s jam warehouse right on Hobart's waterfront. Rooms are tasteful and you're in a great spot.
• The Islington Hotel is a converted Regency house with a fabulous modern stone and glass extension allowing for even more spectacular views of Mt. Wellington. The grounds, on the outskirts of Hobart, are manicured and beautiful and the interior is decorated with art and antiques.

Just outside town

• If you like your interiors chic and modern then you'll like the Mona Pavilions, a collection of slick, uniquely designed self-catering pavilions on the Morilla Estate, in the grounds of the Mona Museum. Just a short ferry trip from Hobart, as well as the museum there's a heated infinity pool, gym and sauna.
• Woodbridge on the Derwent is a collection of eight luxurious suites in an 1825, convict-built riverside mansion just 25 minutes from Hobart. Many of the original features, like open fireplaces, a ballroom and library, remain. Plus you're surrounded by food and wine country.

For rural relaxation

• Villa Howden located on the tranquil shores of North West Bay, offers traditional elegance and the perfect place to stay for intimate celebrations and quiet contemplation. Rooms are beautifully decorated and fresh local produce is served in peaceful dining rooms. A secluded country house.

For an apartment or villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option this holiday - don't hesitate to visit our online partner, Booking.com for a great selection of properties overlooking the marina and in the town centre.

Travel Information

• Fly to Hobart Airport located 18km (11 miles) from Hobart with a range of domestic flights across Australia.
• Alternatively, Hobart is also a destination on several cruise ship routes, so travel by boat is also an option.
• If you want to rent a car to explore the area, click here for prices and booking with our online partner, Rental Cars.
• Best time to visit - the summer months from December to February for pleasant temperatures.

Still not sure which to book?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Hobart,
• Alternatively, you can extend your search and check out all our recommendations in Tasmania.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Hobart