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

A 3-Day Trek Through Tasmania’s Best: Hobart, Bruny Island, and Port Arthur

Tasmania might be tiny, but it’s packed with surprises. This 3-day tour gives you a taste of the island’s best—covering Hobart, Bruny Island, and Port Arthur—with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. For just over $300, you get a well-rounded experience that mixes scenic viewpoints, wildlife encounters, historic sites, and some of Tasmania’s top food stops.

What we really love about this tour is how it manages to combine big-picture sights with authentic local flavor. The stops at Mount Wellington and Richmond introduce you to Tasmania’s rugged landscape and colonial charm, while the day on Bruny Island showcases the island’s famous eponymous oysters and cheese. The final day at Port Arthur offers a chance to step into the past at Australia’s most preserved penal settlement.

One consideration is that the schedule is quite packed—so if you prefer to linger or explore in depth, this might feel a little rushed, especially at Port Arthur where the entry fee is separate. Still, if you’re after a broad overview with just enough time for each highlight, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania without the hassle of planning logistics for each site. It’s particularly good for first-timers or those with limited time who want to see the main attractions with the comfort of a guided group.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Combines Tasmania’s top destinations in just three days.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, engaging guides bring each site to life.
• Flexible Accommodation: You choose where to stay in Hobart, offering personal comfort.
• Wildlife & Food: Visit Bonorong Sanctuary, sample local cheeses and oysters.
• History & Scenic Views: From convict sites to mountain vistas, there’s plenty to see.
• Balanced Itinerary: Mix of sightseeing, cultural stops, and scenic outlooks.

Exploring Tasmania in Depth: What You’ll Experience

Day 1: Hobart’s Historic Charm and Mountain Views

The tour kicks off early with a city highlights drive through Hobart’s streets, lined with colonial sandstone buildings and bustling markets. As we glide past the Old Customs House and Constitution Dock, it’s easy to see why Hobart’s charm draws visitors.

A highlight is the ascent to Mount Wellington (Kunanyi), where the air is crisp and the panoramic views stretch across the city, the river, and beyond. Climbing to 1,272 meters, this spot offers some of the best photo opportunities — you’ll love the sweeping vistas that encompass both cityscape and rugged wilderness.

Afterward, the group visits the iconic Salamanca Market—but only on Saturdays. Here, you can browse local art, produce, and crafts, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. If your visit falls on another day, the itinerary adjusts slightly, but the market remains a highlight for many travelers.

Next, a quick stop in Richmond reveals Australia’s oldest bridge and charming convict-era architecture, filled with boutique shops and cafes perfect for a quick snack or souvenir. The stop also features a chance to sample cheese at The Wicked Cheese Co., which is a crowd favorite thanks to its free tastings.

The day wraps up with a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where you get up close with Tasmanian Devils, kangaroos, and other native animals. Reviewers rave about how personal and well-maintained this sanctuary is, making it a highlight for animal lovers.

Day 2: Bruny Island’s Natural Wonders and Gourmet Delights

The second day takes you to Bruny Island, a true highlight for nature lovers and foodies alike. The journey begins with a scenic drive to Mavista Falls, where a short walk through lush temperate rainforest rewards with fresh, forest-scented air and a sense of untouched wilderness.

Once on the island, you’ll explore Cape Bruny Lighthouse, Australia’s second oldest original tower. The views from here are spectacular—craggy coastlines and crashing waves make it an ideal photo stop. The Neck Lookout offers a 360-degree view of North and South Bruny, with a chance to see penguins, seabirds, and possibly seals.

Food plays a big role on Bruny, with stops at Get Shucked Oyster Bar and Bruny Island Cheese Company. The oysters, known for their famous quality, are a must-try on the way back to the ferry, according to reviews praising the local flavors and fresh seafood.

The charming Adventure Bay provides a relaxing break at a spot historically linked to explorers. Here, you can stroll along the beach, soaking in the calm waters and spectacular scenery. The tour’s combination of scenic overlooks, wildlife, and tasting stops makes it a well-rounded experience.

Day 3: Port Arthur and Scenic Coastal Stops

The final day begins with stops at Eaglehawk Neck, where Pirate Bay and the Dog Line monument pay homage to Tasmania’s penal past and its strategic coastal defenses. These brief stops offer great photo opportunities and a glimpse into the island’s rugged coastline.

Next, a sweet treat awaits at the Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry—perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth with handmade chocolates. From there, a visit to Port Arthur Lavender lets you wander among lavender fields and browse handcrafted lavender products.

The main event is the Port Arthur Historic Site, which, for many travelers, is the highlight of the tour. The site’s well-preserved prisoner accommodations, church ruins, and penal facilities tell Tasmania’s darker stories. You can expect a guided tour that takes about 35 minutes, with additional free time to explore independently. The admission fee isn’t included, but many reviewers feel the experience is worth the extra cost.

Finally, the day concludes with a visit to Remarkable Cave, where spectacular coastal vistas and striking rock formations create a memorable end to your trip.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle with a local, professional guide who’s both informative and engaging. The group size is limited to 20 travelers, striking a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Hobart, which adds convenience, especially if you’re staying in the city’s central area. The price of around $318.66 per person offers excellent value considering the variety and quality of sights, plus the convenience of guided transport. Keep in mind that Port Arthur’s entrance fee ($48 AUD) isn’t included, but the tour description notes it’s worth it to explore this fascinating historic site.

One of the standout features, according to reviewers, is the knowledgeable guides—they make each stop engaging and personal. Several mention how guides like Rob and Mark go above and beyond with insights, humor, and helpful tips.

Potential Drawbacks

While generally very positive, some travelers note that the schedule can be quite busy, which might limit the time spent at each site. For example, the Port Arthur stop is about four hours, which is enough for a good overview but not in-depth exploration. The timing for Port Arthur also starts early (7:30 am), which might be a long day, especially in the last stretch.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Tasmania who want a comprehensive introduction without the hassle of arranging individual excursions. It’s also suitable for travelers with limited time who want a taste of everything—nature, history, wildlife, and food—packed into just three days.

If you love scenic viewpoints, local food, and small-group tours led by passionate guides, you’ll find this experience rewarding. However, those who prefer slow-paced exploration or more time at fewer sites might want to consider customizing their own itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This 3-day Tasmanian highlights tour offers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and local produce, all led by knowledgeable guides. The value is solid, as it packages several of Tasmania’s biggest draws into a manageable schedule, making it perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and minimize stress.

The tour’s focus on authentic experiences and local flavor—from cheese tastings to wildlife encounters—ensures you’ll come away with more than just pictures. Instead, you’ll carry some genuine stories and impressions of Tasmania’s rugged beauty and complex history.

If you’re after a comprehensive, engaging introduction to Tasmania, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this trip is a smart choice. Just be prepared for early mornings and a full-on itinerary, but rest assured, you’ll leave with a well-rounded sense of what this remarkable island has to offer.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from selected CBD hotels in Hobart, making your start and end convenient.

How long is each day’s schedule? The full tour spans about three days, with each day packed with stops, sightseeing, and some free time. The last day includes about four hours at Port Arthur.

What are the main highlights of Day 1? Hobart city tour, Mount Wellington, Salamanca Market (Saturday only), Richmond, and Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.

Are food and drinks included? No, meals and drinks aren’t included. You can purchase food and souvenirs at stops like Salamanca Market, Bruny Island, and Port Arthur.

What is the group size? The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Is the Port Arthur entry fee included? No, the entry fee ($48 AUD) is not included but is recommended for full access to the historic site.

Can I customize this tour? Since it’s a guided group tour, customization options are limited, but you’ll have some flexibility in accommodation and optional stops based on your preferences.

To sum it up, this tour offers a fantastic way to see Tasmania’s highlights efficiently, with guides who are passionate and knowledgeable. It’s perfect for those wanting an authentic, well-organized introduction to the island’s natural beauty, history, and flavors, all wrapped into a memorable three-day adventure.