Destination Guide: Hobart

 

A place where history meets modernity, Hobart exudes the persona of a sprawling village with a vibrant harbour, low-rise architecture, and a laid-back pace that invites you to slow down.

Every corner of this waterfront city tells a story—from bustling weekend markets framed by grand sandstone buildings, winding streets lined with pastel cottages and blossoming gardens, and eateries that serve creativity on every plate.

Beyond the city’s heart, Hobart’s allure continues to unfold. Wander through lush botanic gardens, explore historic buildings filled with vintage treasures, or catch a ferry to a famous gallery to immerse in arts and culture.

 

 

~ Where to Stay ~

 

01.

GLASSHOLME

Hovering above the cityscape and sparkling lights, Glassholme offers a sleek, modern escape that contrasts beautifully with Hobart’s historic charm. This architectural gem feels like a Hollywood Hills villa, with a statement fireplace enchanting the stylish open-plan living area. Upstairs, a loft bedroom and indulgent bathroom with a valley-view shower and bath provide a tranquil, luxurious retreat above the city.



Address:
Thelma Drive, West Hobart
Website: glassholme.com.au
Instagram: @glass_holme


 

~ Where to Play ~

 

01.

BATTERY POINT

Lined with pastel cottages that create a kaleidoscopic streetscape, Battery Point feels like stepping into a storybook. This historic neighbourhood, with its narrow streets and blooming gardens, captures Hobart’s rich past at every turn. Stroll along cobblestone lanes where white picket fences and heritage-listed homes bask in the southern sun, flanked by terrace cafes and ornate boutique shopfronts.



Address:
Battery Point
Website: discovertasmania.com.au
Instagram: #batterypoint


02.

ROYAL TASMANIAN BOTANICAL GARDENS

Bordering Hobart’s city centre, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens offer a serene escape into nature’s beauty. Wander through historic 1818-established grounds filled with vibrant magnolias, a sandstone conservatory, and a tranquil Japanese garden. The gardens are a harmonious blend of heritage and horticultural wonders, featuring rare plants and captivating seasonal displays that enchant visitors year-round.



Address:
Lower Domain Road, Hobart
Website: gardens.rtbg.tas.gov.au
Instagram: @botanicalgardenstas


03.

SALAMANCA MARKET

Bursting with energy each Saturday, Salamanca Market turns Hobart’s waterfront into a lively display of Tasmania’s finest. Framed by historic sandstone warehouses, the market buzzes with handcrafted goods, local produce, and unique artisan finds. As you wander, the scent of fresh coffee and gourmet treats fills the air, creating an atmosphere that’s irresistibly inviting for both locals and visitors.



Address:
Salamanca Place, Hobart
Website: salamancamarket.com.au
Instagram: @salamancamarket


04.

CHURCH ANTIQUES

Hidden on the outskirts of the city centre, the enchanting Church Antiques is a labyrinth of tables, shelves, and alcoves brimming with relics of the past, even spilling onto the old pulpit. Adorned with stained glass windows and cathedral ceilings, the store invites treasure-seekers to lose themselves among its nooks and crannies, discovering history, nostalgia, and one-of-a-kind finds at every turn.



Address:
21 Cross Street, New Town
Website: No website
Instagram: No Instagram


 

~ Where to Eat & Drink ~

 

01.

PITZI

Around the corner from its sister venue Fico, Pitzi is a merry little pasta bar that brings a slice of Italian comfort to Hobart’s heart. Balancing tradition and creativity, it delights with house-made focaccia, flavour-infused pasta, and a selection of local and Italian wines. Communal tables invite shared stories, while the bar tables are a great place for a casual or late-night wine stop.



Address:
4 Victoria Street, Hobart
Website: pitzipitzi.com.au
Instagram: @pitzi_hobart


02.

LA SARDINA LOCA

Hidden down a charming carriageway, La Sardina Loca beckons with its cosy aperitivo atmosphere and Mediterranean-inspired menu enjoyed in the sandstone courtyard or the intimate converted stable. One of Hobart’s more intriguing dining destinations, it champions a bar list of international and local wines, beers, and spirits, often made by the host's close friends and hospitality heroes.



Address:
100 Elizabeth Street, Hobart
Website: lasardinaloca.com
Instagram: @las.ardina


03.

JACKMAN & MCROSS

Wafting through the air, the scent of freshly baked pastries and artisan bread lures you into Jackman & McRoss, a beloved Hobart institution. Nestled in the heart of Battery Point, this quaint bakery-café is a haven for food lovers seeking handmade delights. The rustic interior, filled with the warmth of baking ovens, invites you to indulge in flaky croissants, savoury pies, and an array of decadent sweets.



Address:
57 Hampden Road, Battery Point
Website: facebook.com
Instagram: #jackmanandmcross


04.

PIGEON HOLE

Overflowing with community spirit and the aroma of freshly baked sourdough, Pigeon Hole is a beloved city-edge coffee spot. Tucked into an almost hole-in-the-wall cafe, it invites you in with a warm face and a friendly smile. The menu evolves with the seasons, highlighting fresh ingredients from the owners’ farm, ensuring every visit feels unique and delightfully connected to the region’s bounty.



Address:
93 Goulburn Street, Hobart
Website: pigeonholecafe.com.au
Instagram: @pigeonholecafewesthobart


05.

LITTLE MISSY PATISSERIE

Filled with French-inspired delights, Little Missy Patisserie offers a taste of sweet and savoury artistry. Drawing from her fine dining experience, Pastry chef Oonagh Murphy transforms local produce into sumptuous pies, flaky quiches, and sweet scones. Book a table in the tea-house-style dining room to indulge in pastries and sweets that change daily, sometimes even hourly, based on the chefs’ latest creations.



Address:
151/153 Argyle Street, Hobart
Website: littlemissypatisserie.com
Instagram: @littlemissypatisserie

Pauline Morrissey

Pauline is a freelance writer and columnist based in Sydney, Australia.

https://www.paulinemorrissey.com
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