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Tasmania is small, remote, and remarkably untouched—and that’s exactly what makes it so special. Since its isolation from mainland Australia for over 8,000 years ago, the island has developed a distinct ecosystem and culture all its own. You’ll find wildlife that exists nowhere else, landscapes that shift from alpine peaks to ancient rainforests, and communities of makers and artists deeply inspired by their surroundings. In the cities, expect boundary-pushing galleries and top-tier restaurants; in the countryside, prepare for moments of pure stillness. With this 7-day itinerary—and a Hertz rental car—you’ll be free to roam, discover, and fall in love with Tassie’s wild heart for the first (but definitely not last) time. Day 1: Arrive in Hobart and Explore the City The start of your adventure should be Hobart—not just because it’s easy to fly into, but because it’s incredibly easy to love. This small, historic city is Tasmania’s largest, but it still carries the charm and quiet rhythm of a country town. Don’t be fooled by the laid-back vibe, though—Hobart has a bold creative streak, which you’ll see and taste for yourself. Spend your first day getting to know the place, preferably around the cobbled laneways and sandstone buildings of Salamanca Place, which will lead you to the historic waterfront. Nearby Battery Point is full of character, with boutique shops, charming cafes, and cottages that feel frozen in time. Next, prepare to meet Hobart’s wild creative side at MONA (the Museum of Old and New Art). This sprawling underground gallery is the private passion project of a local resident who’s as eccentric as he is wealthy. The art here is guaranteed to ask questions, challenge perceptions, even create some confusion, but that’s all part of the fun. Just a short drive away in Cambridge is Sullivans Cove Distillery. This humble distillery took the title of World's Best Single Malt Whisky in 2014, so it’s well worth a visit if you want to try or buy a shining example of Tasmania’s understated craftsmanship. (Just remember to have a designated driver if you plan on doing any tasting.) Cap off the day with a drive up kunanyi / Mount Wellington, where you’ll find panoramic views over Hobart and the Derwent River. It’s the perfect introduction to stunning scenery you’re about to embark on. Day 2: Day Trip to Bruny Island You’ve made your way to the little island of Tasmania. Now, it’s time for another! Just south of Hobart lies Bruny Island, home to beautiful beaches, wildlife and artisan produce. To get there, take a half-hour drive to Kettering and take your car on the ferry (approx. 20 minutes). Once you’re there, explore windswept beaches, hike the Neck Lookout, and sample local produce like Bruny Island Cheese, oysters, and honey. If you’re lucky, you may spot the likes of fairy penguins and white wallabies before the last ferry back. Day 3: Hobart to Freycinet Peninsula (via Richmond) On your third day, make your way to the Freycinet Peninsula. But before you get there, take a short detour to Richmond, a beautifully preserved 19th-century village with Australia’s oldest stone bridge. Continue along the coast, passing vineyards and ocean views, until you reach Coles Bay, your base for exploring Freycinet National Park. Settle in for the night and get ready for adventure the next day. Day 4: Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park The Wineglass Bay Lookout is a big highlight of any Tassie trip. The walk to the lookout is a moderately steep climb, but the reward is one of the most photogenic beaches in the world. If you’re feeling energetic, walk all the way down to the beach itself for a swim or picnic. To keep the adventure going, do some kayaking, take a cruise around the peninsula, or a visit to Cape Tourville Lighthouse for easier views with no major walking required. Day 5: Freycinet to Launceston via Bicheno and St Helens Continue through the charming seaside town of Bicheno, a great spot for spotting blowholes or penguin colonies in the evening. For lunch, head to Lobster Shack for a fresh taste of the eastern-Tasmanian ocean. Stop at St Helens if you’d like to dip your toes into the Bay of Fires, known for its orange lichen-covered rocks and clear waters. If you’ve got a taste for fine cheese, take a drive inland to Pyengana Dairy Company and pick up some of their award-winning clothbound cheddar for the road. Once you arrive in Launceston, settle in for the evening and go to bed dreaming of discovering Tasmania’s second-largest city the following day. Day 6: Explore Launceston and Cataract Gorge Spend the day soaking up the sights around Launceston. Take a morning stroll through Cataract Gorge Reserve, with its suspension bridge, scenic chairlift and peaceful gardens—conveniently located just minutes from the city centre. In the afternoon, explore the Harvest Market (on Saturdays), and finish with a riverside walk along the Tamar River while you reflect on the journey so far and prepare for your seventh (and final) day. Day 7: Return to Hobart (via Midlands Highway) Wrap up your trip with a scenic drive back to Hobart via the Heritage Highway. Stop in at quaint towns like Ross and Oatlands, known for their historic buildings, bakeries, and antique stores. It’san easy way to wind down from your adventure, giving you one last taste of Tassie’s slower pace before returning your car and heading to the airport. The Best of Tasmania, All in One Week And there you have it! A whirlwind seven days in one of the most reliably gorgeous parts of Australia, if not the world. With dramatic coastlines, heritage towns, and unforgettable food and wine, every kind of traveller will find something hiding here. And with a Hertz rental car, you can go where the buses don’t, set your own timetable, and stop whenever something catches your eye (which means you’ll be stopping quite often!) Whether it’s your first time here, or just your first time driving here, seven days will inspire you to return time and time again.

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