Things To Do In Hobart Without A Car – The Ultimate Walkable &

ByEric James Updated on

Thinking about exploring Hobart but feeling stuck without a set of wheels? It’s a common worry. Many travelers assume Tasmania’s wild beauty is only accessible by car, leaving them hesitant to plan a trip to its capital city.

But I’m here to promise you that not only is it possible, but exploring Hobart car-free unlocks a more intimate, sustainable, and rewarding adventure. You connect with the city on a deeper level when you navigate its historic streets on foot and ride alongside locals on the bus.

This guide will show you exactly how to do it. We’ll cover the best walkable attractions, how to master the bus system for bigger adventures, and the essential gear you need. Get ready to discover the best things to do in Hobart without a car and explore with confidence.

Why Explore Hobart Without a Car? The Surprising Benefits

Ditching the rental car isn’t just about saving money on fuel and parking—though that’s a huge plus. It’s about changing the way you experience a place. Here are the real benefits of Things to do in Hobart without a car.

Embrace Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Travel

For many of us at OutwardLab, minimizing our footprint is a core value. Choosing to walk or use public transport is a powerful act of sustainable Things to do in Hobart without a car. You reduce emissions, lessen traffic congestion, and help preserve the very nature you came to see.

It’s an eco-friendly choice that aligns with a self-sufficient and mindful lifestyle, allowing you to connect with Tasmania’s pristine environment in a more respectful way.

A Deeper, More Immersive Connection

When you’re not focused on navigation and parking, your senses open up. You’ll notice the intricate sandstone architecture of Battery Point, hear the clanging of masts in the harbour, and smell the fresh-baked scallop pies from a hidden bakery.

Walking allows for spontaneous discovery. You can duck into a laneway art gallery or follow a scenic path you’d have missed entirely from behind a windshield. This is how you go beyond just seeing a city—you truly feel it.

Save Money and Reduce Stress

Let’s be practical. Rental cars, insurance, fuel, and city parking are expensive. That money is better spent on a MONA ferry ticket, a delicious meal in North Hobart, or a quality piece of gear for your next adventure.

Plus, you avoid the stress of navigating unfamiliar one-way streets and finding a parking spot near the bustling Salamanca Market. Your adventure becomes simpler and more focused on the experience itself.

Mastering Hobart’s Public Transport: Your Car-Free Lifeline

Hobart’s public transport is your key to unlocking adventures beyond the central city. While the network isn’t as vast as a major metropolis, it’s reliable and will get you to most key destinations. Here’s a quick how to Things to do in Hobart without a car guide using local transit.

The Metro Tasmania Bus System

The primary mode of public transport is the bus network, run by Metro Tasmania. The buses are clean, generally on time, and cover a wide area.

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Your first step should be to grab a Greencard. This is a rechargeable smartcard that offers cheaper fares than paying with cash. You can buy and top up a Greencard at the Metro Shop in the city centre or at various agents around town (look for the green sign).

Before you head out, download the Metro Tas app. It provides real-time tracking and a journey planner, which is invaluable for planning your day trips. It helps you avoid one of the common problems with Things to do in Hobart without a car: misjudging bus schedules.

Ferries: The Scenic Route

For certain destinations, a ferry is not just transport—it’s part of the experience. The most famous route is the MONA ROMA fast ferry, which zips you from the Brooke Street Pier to the iconic Museum of Old and New Art.

There are also other ferry services that can take you to surrounding areas like Peppermint Bay. Always check schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

The Ultimate Walkable Itinerary: Exploring Central Hobart on Foot

Hobart’s city centre is remarkably compact and perfect for exploring on foot. A good pair of walking shoes is all you need to discover its historic heart. Lace up and let’s go.

Salamanca Place and the Waterfront

Start your journey at the iconic Salamanca Place. This row of historic sandstone warehouses is now home to galleries, theatres, and cafes. If you’re here on a Saturday, the Salamanca Market is an absolute must-do.

From there, it’s a short stroll to Constitution Dock on the waterfront. This is the finishing line for the famous Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. You can admire the boats, grab some fresh fish and chips from a floating punt, and soak in the maritime atmosphere.

Battery Point’s Historic Charm

Climb the colonial-era Kelly’s Steps from Salamanca and you’ll find yourself in Battery Point, one of Australia’s oldest and most charming suburbs. It feels like stepping back in time.

Wander through the narrow streets lined with whalers’ cottages and grand Georgian homes. Stop for a coffee at a local bakery like Jackman & McRoss and enjoy the peaceful, historic vibe. It’s a photographer’s dream.

The CBD and Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG)

A short walk from the waterfront is the city’s central business district (CBD). Here you’ll find the main shopping areas like the Elizabeth Street Mall.

More importantly, it’s home to the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG). This fantastic museum offers a deep dive into Tasmania’s unique natural and cultural history, from its ancient Indigenous heritage to its colonial past and unique wildlife. Best of all, general admission is free.

Adventure Beyond the CBD: More Things to do in Hobart without a Car

Ready to venture a bit further? These incredible experiences are easily accessible using a combination of special shuttle buses and public ferries, proving you don’t need your own vehicle for the big ticket items.

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Conquering kunanyi / Mount Wellington

No trip to Hobart is complete without visiting the towering peak of kunanyi / Mount Wellington. The views from the 1,271-metre summit are breathtaking, stretching over the city, the Derwent River, and far beyond.

The easiest way to get there is the official kunanyi / Mount Wellington Explorer Bus. This is a dedicated shuttle service that departs from the city. You can buy a simple return pass or a 48-hour explorer pass that allows you to hop on and off at various trailheads on the mountain, perfect for hikers.

Pro Tip: The weather on the mountain can be drastically different from the city. Always check the summit webcam before you go and pack warm layers and a waterproof jacket, even on a sunny day.

Exploring the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) by Ferry

MONA is more than a museum; it’s a subterranean world of thought-provoking, controversial, and brilliant art. It’s an essential Hobart experience.

The best way to arrive is via the MONA ROMA ferry. The 25-minute journey up the Derwent River is a scenic adventure in itself. You can choose a standard seat or upgrade to the “Posh Pit” for complimentary drinks and canapés. Book your museum and ferry tickets together online in advance.

Hiking the Rivulet Tracks from the City

For a dose of nature without leaving the city, follow the Hobart Rivulet Walking Track. This gentle, flat trail follows the path of the rivulet from the city centre right up to the foothills of kunanyi / Mount Wellington.

You can connect to it easily from behind the CBD. The path takes you through parks, past historic sites like the Cascade Brewery, and into beautiful bushland. It’s a perfect example of how accessible nature is here.

Essential Gear & Pro Tips for the Car-Free Explorer

Traveling without a car means you are your own transport and your own storage. Packing smart is crucial. Here are some of our top Things to do in Hobart without a car tips and best practices.

  • A Comfortable Daypack: You’ll be carrying everything you need for the day. A 20-30 litre daypack, like an Osprey Talon 22 or Deuter Speed Lite, is perfect for a rain jacket, water bottle, snacks, and a power bank.
  • Waterproof Outerwear: Hobart’s weather is famously changeable. A lightweight, packable waterproof and windproof jacket is non-negotiable. Look for something with Gore-Tex or a similar membrane from a brand like Arc’teryx or Patagonia.
  • Sturdy Footwear: You will be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes or light hikers are essential. Brands like Merrell, Salomon, or Keen offer excellent options with good support and grip.
  • Navigation Tools: While Hobart is easy to navigate, having Google Maps or an offline map app like Maps.me on your phone is a lifesaver. A portable power bank ensures you never run out of battery at a critical moment.
  • Layering System: Instead of one heavy coat, dress in layers. A merino wool base layer, a fleece mid-layer, and your waterproof shell will allow you to adapt to any weather conditions the city throws at you.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Exploring Hobart Without a Car

Is Hobart a walkable city?

Absolutely. The central part of Hobart, including the waterfront, Salamanca, Battery Point, and the CBD, is very compact and easily explored on foot. Many of the top attractions are within a 20-minute walk of each other.

How do I get from Hobart Airport to the city without a car?

The SkyBus is the most efficient option. It’s a dedicated airport shuttle service with regular departures that drop you off at several key locations in the city centre. You can buy tickets online or at the terminal.

Can I really get to kunanyi / Mount Wellington without a car?

Yes. The kunanyi / Mount Wellington Explorer Bus is a purpose-built service designed specifically for this. It’s reliable, informative, and even allows for hop-on-hop-off access for hikers who want to explore the mountain’s trails.

What’s the best way to pay for buses in Hobart?

Using a Greencard is the cheapest and most convenient way. It’s a reusable travel card you can top up with credit. You can also pay with cash, but the fares are higher and you’ll need to try and have exact change.

Exploring Hobart without a car isn’t a limitation; it’s an opportunity. It encourages a slower, more deliberate, and sustainable way of travel that perfectly suits the relaxed vibe of Tasmania.

By using your own two feet and the local public transport, you’ll discover hidden gems and create memories that you would have missed from inside a car. So pack your daypack, grab a Greencard, and get ready to explore this incredible city on your own terms.

Stay safe, be prepared, and enjoy the adventure!

Eric James
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