13 Fantastic City Tours In Hobart

Hobart is one of Australia’s most charming cities, packed with historic sites, vibrant neighborhoods, and scenic views. It’s a place where you can walk through well-preserved architecture, cruise along the waterways, or soar above the landscape for a whole new perspective. What makes Hobart especially appealing for city tours is its manageable size—perfect for exploring in a day or two—and its blend of old-world charm with modern flair. We particularly enjoy the Hobart: 8-hour city sightseeing tour including MONA because it combines cultural history with a visit to the renowned MONA museum, and the Hobart kayak tour for a different view of the waterfront—unique and memorable. Whatever your interest, Hobart’s compact layout means you won’t miss the highlights.

Quick Overview

Hobart offers a mix of walking tours, coach sightseeing, private charters, kayaking, and even aerial flights. You can stroll through historic districts and parks, hop on a double-decker bus, or explore by kayak—each experience highlighting different parts of the city and surrounding countryside. For an immersive experience, the Hobart History, People & Places walking tour is perfect for a quick, personal introduction. For a broader overview, the 3-hour city sightseeing takes you across the city’s key sites. And if you want to combine culture, history, and art, the Hobart: 8-hour tour including MONA offers a full-day adventure.

1. Hobart History, People & Places – 2 hour city walk

At number 1 on our list, this intimate 2-hour walking tour is led by a local guide who knows Hobart inside out. It’s perfect for travelers who want to get a quick but meaningful overview of the city’s colonial roots, heritage buildings, and Victorian architecture. Starting in the heart of Hobart, you’ll stroll along Hunter Street and the waterfront, passing through a small park and Salamanca Place. The guide shares stories about the city’s early days and points out buildings that showcase Hobart’s evolution. The tour’s small-group size—max eight people—means lots of personalized attention and plenty of chances to ask questions. Visitors often praise the guide’s knowledge and the relaxing pace that’s suitable for all fitness levels. Plus, the tour is wheelchair accessible. This experience is ideal for first-timers or those looking for a concise but insightful introduction.
Bottom line: Great for a quick, personal immersion into Hobart’s history and architecture.

2. Hobart: 3-Hour City Sightseeing Tour

Number 2 offers a three-hour coach tour that hits many of Hobart’s highlights. This tour is a solid choice if you’re looking for an overview without the hassle of walking. You’ll visit sites like the Penitentiary Chapel, Battery Point, and St. David’s Cathedral, and enjoy views of the city and surrounding hills. The guide provides commentary on Hobart’s early settlement and cultural development, making it both an educational and scenic experience. The tour stops at scenic spots like Cascade Gardens, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and snap photos. Guests appreciate how comfortably the coach moves between sites, giving you a broad picture of Hobart’s character in just a few hours.
Bottom line: An excellent, relaxed way to see Hobart’s main sights if you’re short on time.

3. Hobart City Sightseeing Tour including MONA Ticket

Number 3 takes a full day, combining a comprehensive city tour with a visit to MONA—Australia’s most talked-about contemporary art museum. Starting with a coach tram tour, you’ll learn about Hobart’s history, culture, and key landmarks, including the Cascade Brewery and Female Factory site. After a scenic ferry ride across the Derwent River, you’ll spend several hours exploring the MONA, home to a striking mix of traditional and modern art. Guests praise the guide’s storytelling and the chance to experience Hobart’s past and present in one day. The ferry ride adds a relaxing touch, and the museum’s eclectic collection makes this a compelling visit.
Bottom line: Perfect for art lovers and culture seekers who want a comprehensive day out.

4. Hobart City 2.5-Hour Kayak Tour

Number 4 offers a more active experience—a 2.5-hour kayak tour of Hobart’s waterfront. Paddle past luxury yachts, historic tall ships, and fishing boats while listening to commentary from your guide. This tour is ideal if you want to see Hobart from a different perspective and enjoy some fresh air. The highlight is paddling under fishing wharves and getting close to Hobart’s maritime life, with scenic water views of the city skyline. A delicious fish and chips snack is included, making it a perfect blend of activity and relaxation. Reviewers praise the 4.9/5 rating and the friendly guides. It’s suited for those comfortable on the water and looking for an adventure beyond land-based tours.
Bottom line: An engaging, fun way to see Hobart’s waterfront with a dash of adventure.

5. 48 Hour Hobart City Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Number 5 is a flexible two-day bus tour with 20 stops around the city. The Red Decker open-top bus makes it easy to see major neighborhoods, parks, and historic sites at your own pace. The multilingual commentary adds context to each stop, which include places like Salamanca Place, the Botanical Gardens, and the Royal Hobart Hospital district. Perfect if you prefer a relaxed, self-guided experience or want to customize your day. The 90-minute loop covers the essentials, and you can hop on and off as much as you like within the 48 hours. Visitors love the spectacular views from the top deck and the convenience of exploring independently.
Bottom line: Best for flexible travelers who want to see everything without rushing.

6. Hobart City and Surroundings Private Charter Service

Number 6 is the most personalized option—a private 7-hour tour for up to two people, perfect for those who want a tailored experience. The guide takes you to iconic sites like Mt Wellington, Richmond, and the Oyster Farm, customizing the itinerary based on your interests. This tour shines with its detailed stops, including photo opportunities at Mount Wellington with panoramic views, a stroll through historic Richmond with its oldest sandstone bridge, and visits to local breweries and farms. Reviewers highlight the guide’s flexibility, noting that Garry adjusted the itinerary on the fly. The price might seem high, but the exclusivity and depth of experience make it worthwhile for those seeking a private, relaxed day.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for couples or small groups seeking a bespoke tour with expert insights.

7. Hobart City Sightseeing Tour including MONA Admission

Number 7 offers a full 8-hour experience with a mix of city sights and a ferry trip to MONA, Australia’s largest private museum. This tour begins with a scenic coach ride through sites like Cascade Gardens and Rosny Hill Lookout, then transitions to a ferry cruise that’s included in the price. Once at MONA, you’ll explore the diverse collection of antiquities and contemporary art housed within the winery-turned-museum. The guide’s commentary makes the day informative and engaging, and the ferry ride adds a relaxing element. Reviews note that the guide Tim was proud of the city and its features, making the experience lively.
Bottom line: Ideal for culture enthusiasts wanting a mix of city exploration and modern art.

8. Hobart City Flight Including Mt Wellington and Derwent River

Number 8 offers a 30-minute scenic flight above Hobart. Limited to ten passengers, it’s perfect for a bird’s-eye view of the Derwent River, Mt Wellington, and even the MONA. The flight is an exciting complement to land-based tours, providing stunning vistas you simply can’t get from the ground. Reviewers with a sense of adventure find the aerial perspective unforgettable, and it’s a quick but memorable addition to your Hobart itinerary.
Bottom line: Best for those who want to see Hobart from the air and enjoy a quick, spectacular flight.

9. Hobart Half-Day Sightseeing City Tour

Number 9 is a half-day bus tour covering key sights such as Cascade Gardens, Queen’s Domain, and the Female Factory. Running about three hours, this tour is a good choice if your schedule is tight but you still want to see the highlights. The tour includes live commentary, and the stops showcase Hobart’s historical architecture and scenic parks. While some reviews mention it’s a short tour, the guide Colin’s knowledge is often highlighted as a plus. It’s great for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview without breaking the bank.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers wanting a quick, comprehensive introduction.

10. Hobart City and Richmond Heritage Shore Excursion

Number 10 is a 4-hour coach tour combining city sights with a visit to Richmond, Australia’s oldest town. Starting with a drive through Salamanca Place, you’ll explore heritage buildings, and enjoy a view from Mount Nelson Lookout. Richmond’s old sandstone bridge and historic streets are a highlight. The guide shares stories about Hobart’s convict past and modern life, giving a well-rounded snapshot of the area. This tour offers a balance of sightseeing and cultural insights, especially suited for cruise passengers wanting a taste of Tasmania’s history.
Bottom line: A shorter, enriching city and countryside combo experience.

11. Hobart Shore Excursion – Open Top City Explorer Tour 9.30am

Number 11 provides a 1.5-hour tour aboard a classic open-top double-decker bus. It covers the Salamanca precinct, Battery Point, and Nutgrove Beach, with photo stops and plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a brief, scenic overview without much walking. The local driver guide is known for being friendly and informative, making this a relaxed way to get a good feel for Hobart’s key neighborhoods.
Bottom line: Perfect for cruise days or short layovers wanting a quick city fix.

12. Hobart Shore Excursion – Open Top City Explorer Tour 1.30pm

Number 12 echoes the morning tour, offering the same route and experiences in a slightly later slot. It’s equally suited for cruise visitors or those who prefer a later start. The tour covers the historic precinct, Battery Point, Sandy Bay, and Cascade Brewery, with commentary enriching each stop. The short duration makes it easy to combine with other activities or shore excursions.
Bottom line: A convenient, quick option for those on a tight schedule.

13. Hobart Shore Excursion – Open Top City Explorer Tour 11.15am

The final tour offers the same straightforward city overview, ideal if your cruise schedule fits this timeframe. It allows relaxed sightseeing from the open-top bus, with stops at key locations like Salamanca, Battery Point, and Nutgrove Beach. The driver’s local insights add a personal touch, making the experience engaging despite its short length.
Bottom line: A solid, no-fuss choice for cruise passengers wanting an easy city tour.

How to Choose the Right Hobart City Tour

Picking the best Hobart city tour depends on your interests, schedule, and travel style. If you’re after a deep dive into history and architecture, the Hobart History, People & Places walk is perfect. For more comprehensive sightseeing that covers multiple neighborhoods and attractions, consider the full-day tour with MONA, especially if you are an art enthusiast. Budget travelers might favor the hop-on-hop-off bus (48-hour ticket) for flexibility, while adventure seekers should look at the kayak tour for a different perspective. Those with limited time or on shore excursions will find the open-top bus options (9.30am or 1.30pm) ideal.

Consider your physical activity level—walking tours suit active travelers, while scenic flights and private charters offer a luxurious spin. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like MONA visits or scenic flights, and always check the weather, as Hobart’s climate can be unpredictable.

Exploring Hobart’s many faces—historic, artistic, coastal, and aerial—is a rewarding experience. From the quick, insightful walk to the full-day culture, there’s a tour to suit every curiosity and schedule. For a balanced introduction, the Hobart: 8-hour tour including MONA is a standout choice, but if you prefer a more active day, the kayak or private charter options will give you a truly personalized journey. Whatever you decide, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable adventures in Tasmania’s captivating capital.