The 10 best free things to do in Hobart

Connecting the city centre with the eastern shore, the Tasman Bridge offers a stunning perspective of Hobart’s famous River Derwent. With a shared pedestrian/bike lane, it’s the perfect place to stretch your legs and take in panoramic views of the city’s low-rise skyline. The light in Tasmania hits differently and the Tasman Bridge is the perfect vantage point to enjoy the expansive river and the looming majesty of kunanyi/Mt Wellington. Sunrise and sunset are particularly special times to take on the 1.4-kilometre span.

The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens has provided a peaceful escape for locals and visitors for more than 200 years. Set across 14 hectares and just a stone’s throw from the city centre, it’s a homage to horticulture, with many spectacular floral collections. Here, you’ll find fern gullies, Japanese gardens, a thriving kitchen garden and a tranquil conservatory packed with 200-plus exotic species. While you’re visiting, make sure you appreciate the convict-built brick wall. Although at more than four metres tall and 280 metres in length, it’s hard to miss. The now iconic arches were retrofitted in the 1960s and make the perfect backdrop for a picnic. With plenty of space to explore, it’s a great spot to take the little ones in your life.

Hobart’s street art cred has flourished over the last ten years, with more than 50 urban murals adding colour and conversation to the city. Works by the likes of Hobart-born artists Ghostpatrol and Jamin bring to life laneways and buildings. Start at Bidencopes Lane, anchored by Hobart local Tom O’Hern’s distinctive work. Grab a map and get exploring. 

On Friday nights, Salamanca Arts Centre transforms with an eclectic mix of bands and DJs taking over the space. Established in 2000 by Tania Bosak, this pop-up live music event kicks off at 6pm every week (weather permitting). It’s a great way to start your night, and with some of Hobart’s best bars and restaurants on the doorstep, you’ll have plenty of options to keep the good times going.

If you’re in the mood for learning, head to one of Hobart's many museums dedicated to preserving Tassie’s past. The family-friendly Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is mostly free to explore, where you can discover the state’s intriguingly brutal convict history and rich First Nations culture, before strolling through an exhibition of sumptuous colonial art featuring Tasmania’s famous wilderness and renowned personalities. It's also worth checking out the galleries at Salamanca Arts Centre where local artists showcase everything from painting and printmaking to ceramics, jewellery, photographs and textiles.

Experience breathtaking views from the summit of Hobart’s tallest peak, kunanyi/Mt Wellington. Even when the clouds roll in, the mountaintop is an experience in itself. If you’re lucky enough to experience great conditions, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panorama of Hobart. Stop at Lost Freight – a shipping-container café – at The Springs for a refreshment on your way up. For those feeling active, dozens of walking tracks crisscross kunanyi, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes.

You might have been to the Big Banana but have you been to Australia’s oldest bridge? A short drive from Hobart takes you to the historic town of Richmond. It’s here that the country’s oldest in-use bridge sits proudly across the Coal River. Rolling green hills lead down to the water where resident-friendly ducks add to the charm. While this bridge has its fair share of mystery and mythology, all you need to know is that it makes a great spot to while away a sunny afternoon.

Flanked by the River Derwent and Salamanca Place, Battery Point is filled with history and charm whose European history really began when 30 hectares of private land was granted to Reverend Robert Knopwood in 1805. Highlights include Kelly’s Steps, the insanely charming collection of houses at Arthur’s Circus, big green spaces and scenic vantage points overlooking the water. Follow your nose or download the Battery Point Walk map for a self-guided tour. 

Sandy Bay’s urban Nutgrove Beach offers a slice of coastal cool, just a ten-minute drive from the city centre. Take a walk along the promenade, perch on the concrete steps or swim out to the pontoon. The water can be chilly at the best of times, but that doesn’t deter thousands of brave souls who strip off to take part in the annual MONA Nude Solstice Swim each June. Nutgrove also features a fantastic playground for kids, making it a great spot for families.