Tucked between the base of Mount Wellington and the sparkling River Derwent, Hobart offers a dynamic mix of heritage charm, modern lifestyle and cultural vibrancy.
Whether you’re wandering through cobblestone laneways, tasting fresh seafood, or getting lost in a local gallery, this compact city centre is brimming with experiences waiting to be discovered.
Nestled just minutes from the heart of Hobart’s bustling CBD, the Rivulet Hotel offers more than a luxurious stay – it’s the perfect base for exploring this wonderful city.
Here’s your curated guide to what to do, see and eat in Hobart, Tasmania – all just a short walk or quick drive away.
The Best of Hobart CBD – Our Top 10 Picks:
1. Stroll Through Salamanca Place
A visit to Hobart isn’t complete without a wander through the historic Salamanca Place.
Just two kilometres from the Rivulet Hotel, this iconic strip of Georgian sandstone warehouses has been transformed into a vibrant precinct of art galleries, cafes, bars and boutique shops. It’s the ideal spot for brunch, an afternoon wine, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere.
If you’re there on a Saturday, don’t miss the Salamanca Market – a bustling outdoor market with street performers and over 300 stalls selling local produce, handmade crafts and gourmet treats. It’s one of Tasmania’s most loved attractions and a fantastic way to connect with the local culture.
2. Dive Into History at Battery Point
Just a short stroll from Salamanca Place, Battery Point is must-visit for lovers of history, architecture and hidden gems.
Once a maritime village and home to sailors, shipbuilders and merchants, today it’s a peaceful enclave of heritage cottages, winding lanes, and colonial architecture – perfect for a self-guided walking tour.
The area gets its name from a coastal gun battery installed in the early 1800s to defend Hobart from potential naval attacks. While the cannons are long gone, the character of the neighbourhood remains beautifully intact.
Wander along Kelly’s Steps – which connect Salamanca to Battery Point – and meander through quaint streets, such as Hampden Road, lined with cafes, bakeries and antique shops.
And don’t miss Arthur Circus, one of Australia’s rare ‘circus-style’ developments that offers a beautifully preserved window into Hobart’s colonial past. This picturesque circular street is lined with Georgian cottages, each framed by white picket fences and brightly coloured doors. Originally built to house officers of the colonial garrison, these charming homes encircle a small central park, creating a peaceful, village-like atmosphere that feels more like a postcard scene than a city suburb.
3. Wander the Waterfront
From the Rivulet Hotel, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the river’s edge, following the natural curve of the shoreline all the way into Hobart’s CBD. This gentle route takes you from the quiet charm of Sandy Bay into the historic harbour, where fishing boats, luxury yachts, ferries and Antarctic research vessels all share the docks.
It’s a beautiful way to arrive in the CBD – passing parks, leafy streets and glimpses of the River Derwent, before reaching the vibrant activity of Brooke Street Pier and Constitution Dock.
Stroll past historic buildings, peruse the local artisan stalls, or grab a bite at one of the waterside eateries for some of the freshest seafood in town. And if you’re lucky, you might even see a fishing trawler unloading the day’s fresh catch straight onto the docks – a true taste of Hobart’s working waterfront in action.
4. Take to the Water:
Ferries & Harbour Cruises
Seeing Hobart from the water offers a whole new perspective – and it’s an experience not to be missed during your stay.
Brooke Street Pier is the main departure point for a range of ferry services and boat cruises.
The most iconic option is the MONA Ferry, which takes you on a 25-minute journey up the River Derwent to the renowned Museum of Old and New Art. The ferry itself is part of the attraction – think quirky seating, onboard bars, and panoramic river views. Choose between the standard ferry or the ‘Posh Pit,’ which includes priority boarding, complimentary drinks and canapés for a more indulgent experience.
If you’re after something more leisurely, there are plenty of harbour cruises to choose from. Whether it’s a scenic cruise at sunset, a lunch tour along the river, or a wildlife-spotting trip along the coast, all options provide a memorable way to soak up Hobart’s natural beauty. Some cruises also offer commentary, giving insight into the city’s maritime history and natural surrounds.
Tickets can be booked at the pier or online in advance and the team at the Rivulet are always happy to help with recommendations.
5. Experience MONA
A visit to Hobart isn’t complete without exploring MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art. Bold, provocative, and unlike any other gallery in Australia, MONA has become one of Tasmania’s most iconic cultural landmarks.
Built into a sandstone cliff, the museum offers a dramatic subterranean experience, where visitors descend into a maze of darkened galleries filled with cutting-edge art, ancient artefacts and thought-provoking installations. MONA challenges expectations at every turn, whether it’s confronting subject matter or the museum’s irreverent approach to curation.
Beyond the gallery walls, the site also features a striking architectural design, award-winning restaurants, outdoor art and lush gardens overlooking the River Derwent. Whether you’re an art lover or simply curious, MONA is immersive, surprising, and unforgettable.
6. Discover Hobart’s Creative Side
- TMAG – Right in the heart of the CBD, the Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery is a treasure trove of history, art and natural science. Entry is free, and the museum offers fascinating insights into Tasmania’s Indigenous cultures, colonial past and unique flora and fauna.
Don’t miss the contemporary art exhibitions and interactive science areas – it’s a great stop whether you’re solo, with friends, or visiting with family.
- Salamanca Arts Centre – a creative hub housed in a row of historic 19th-century warehouses, right in the heart of Salamanca Place. Inside, you’ll find independent galleries, artist studios, and performance spaces showcasing the best of Hobart’s creative community.
- Despard Gallery – Established in 1987, Despard is a key player in Hobart’s contemporary art scene, showcasing works from both established and emerging Tasmanian artists. Located at Castray Esplanade, the gallery features a dynamic range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography.
- Hobart Art Gallery – Located within the Hotel Grand Chancellor on Davey Street, Hobart Art Gallery offers a curated selection of works by some of Tasmania’s finest painters, printmakers and sculptors. The gallery also provides opportunities for talented young and emerging artists, offering excellent investment opportunities for art enthusiasts.
If you’re into street art, keep your eyes peeled – murals and creative installations pop up in alleyways and laneways throughout the CBD.
7. Indulge in Local Flavours
Hobart’s CBD is a haven for foodies. The city’s culinary scene celebrates local produce, innovative chefs and a deep connection to the land and sea.
Here are a few must-try spots:
- Landscape Restaurant & Grill – Located in the historic IXL Jam Factory on Hobart’s waterfront, Landscape offers a premium dining experience that celebrates Tasmania’s finest produce. The menu features a selection of premium Tasmanian and Australian steaks and local seafood, all cooked predominantly on the wood-fired Asado Grill. The restaurant’s modern, dark space is adorned with iconic art by John Glover.
- Templo – Tucked away in a quiet street, Templo is a tiny neighbourhood Italian restaurant known for its warm hospitality and ever-changing seasonal menu. With just a handful of tables and a focus on handmade pasta, local produce, and natural wines, it’s an intimate dining experience that feels both relaxed and refined.
- Fico – Fico is one of Hobart’s most acclaimed dining destinations, offering a seasonal tasting menu that highlights seasonal Tasmanian produce with European flair. The intimate space and “let us cook for you” approach make for a unique and memorable dining experience. With its inventive dishes and elegant simplicity, Fico continues to stand out on the national food scene.
- Jackman & McRoss – This is a Hobart institution, nestled in the heart of Battery Point and known for its old-world charm and irresistible baked goods. The café serves up everything from buttery croissants and rustic sourdough, to gourmet pies and generously filled sandwiches. Its all-day menu features hearty, well-crafted breakfast and lunch dishes. With its warm atmosphere, polished wood interiors and glass cabinets brimming with fresh pastries, it’s a favourite with locals and visitors alike.
- Dier Makr – One of Hobart’s most acclaimed dining spots, Dier Makr offers a playful, evolving tasting menu that highlights local Tasmanian ingredients with a creative twist. The experience is intimate and unpretentious, with an open kitchen and carefully curated wine pairings that showcase both local and international producers. For something extra, pop next door to Lucinda, their stylish wine bar, for a glass and a few small plates.
- Preachers – Tucked away in a quiet corner of Battery Point, Preachers is a quirky bar housed in a heritage-listed sailmaker’s cottage. It’s known for its rotating lineup of craft beers and famously good burgers – think juicy classics, inventive specials and great options for vegetarians. With a laid-back vibe and a loyal local following, it’s a must-visit for casual drinks and comfort food done right.
- The Source – Perched atop the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) with sweeping views of the River Derwent, Mount Wellington and the Tasman Bridge, The Source offers a refined dining experience that blends food, art and landscape. The carefully curated menu celebrates seasonal Tasmanian produce and bold creative flavours and is paired with an award-winning wine list.
8. Shop Local
Forget chain stores; Hobart’s CBD is a treasure trove of unique, locally owned boutiques offering one-of-a-kind finds.
Stroll down Elizabeth Street, Liverpool Street, and Salamanca Place to explore a wide range of products, from handcrafted jewellery and Tasmanian wool garments to beautifully curated artisan gifts and stylish homewares.
Whether you’re looking for a statement piece of artwork, bespoke leather goods, or a special memento of your time in Tasmania, the city’s independent shops offer something for every taste and interest.
9. Soak Up the Views from Franklin Square
Located opposite Parliament House, Franklin Square is a beautifully landscaped historic park in the heart of Hobart.
Established in the 1860s and named after Sir John Franklin, a 19th-century Arctic explorer, the park features a central two-tiered fountain, mature trees, and a popular oversized chess set.
It’s a great place to take a break, enjoy a coffee, or reflect on your surroundings.
10. Take a Historic Walking Tour
If you’re curious about the city’s layered history, a walking tour is a fantastic way to learn about Hobart’s convict past, architecture, and evolution.
There are several local companies which offer themed walks — from ghost tours to food and drink trails — which bring Hobart’s history to life in a fun and engaging way. Along the way, you’ll uncover hidden landmarks, hear captivating stories, and gain unique insights into the city’s development.
And there you have our top 10 picks for experiencing the best of Hobart.
The Best of Hobart: Our Final Thoughts
Hobart’s CBD is proof that great things come in small packages. With its seamless blend of old and new, natural beauty, artistic flair and world-class dining, it’s a destination that punches well above its weight. Whether you’re here for a quick visit or a slow weekend, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
To wrap up your experience in Hobart, a stay at the Rivulet is the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Just a stone’s throw from the vibrant CBD and the serene waterfront, our boutique hotel provides an intimate retreat where you can relax and recharge.
If you’re looking for luxury accommodation combined with historic charm, please contact our friendly team to find out more, or book online.
