TASMANIA FAMILY ROADTRIP GUIDE Tasmania Family Roadtrip Guide

Tasmania is the ultimate family road trip destination. Compact, easy to explore, and bursting with natural beauty - every drive feels like an adventure. From Hobart’s harbourfront to Launceston’s rolling countryside and Cradle Mountain’s wilderness trails, the island offers endless opportunities for families to explore together.

With Budget car hire in Tasmania, you can design a holiday that’s completely your own - flexible, fun, and filled with discovery at every turn.

Start Your Journey in Hobart

Experience the Best of Hobart Hobart blends history, creativity, and nature in one family-friendly package. As Australia’s second-oldest city, it’s full of fascinating stories and charming sights. Start at Salamanca Place, where historic sandstone warehouses are now home to cafes, art galleries, and the famous Salamanca Market (every Saturday). Wander through the creative stalls, grab a snack, and soak up the atmosphere by the waterfront. Drive or take a short trip up kunanyi / Mount Wellington for panoramic views over the city and Derwent River - a great spot for a family picnic or sunset photo. When you’re ready to explore further, pick up your Budget Hobart car hire or collect your vehicle directly from Hobart Airport to start your Tasmanian road trip.

Family-Friendly Activities Near Hobart

• Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary: Meet Tasmanian devils, wombats, kangaroos, and koalas at this popular rescue centre. If the children love animals, you can also visit the Tasmania Zoo.
  

• Richmond Village: A short drive away, this picture-perfect town has Australia’s oldest bridge, great bakeries, and fun family photo spots.
  

• Mount Field National Park: Just over an hour’s drive from Hobart - home to waterfalls, short rainforest walks, and picnic areas.

Road Tripping North: Hobart to Launceston

No family trip to Tasmania is complete without hitting the open road. The drive from Hobart to Launceston takes around 2½ hours; however, it’s worth taking your time.

Follow the Heritage Highway, a scenic route lined with historic towns, farm stalls, and cozy cafes. It’s the perfect family-friendly road trip filled with mini adventures.

Top Stops Along the Way

• Oatlands: Famous for the working Callington Mill Distillery and its Georgian streetscape.
  

• Ross: Stop at the iconic Ross Village Bakery for Tasmania’s best scallop pie.
  

• Campbell Town: Stretch your legs on the Convict Brick Trail and spot names from Australia’s colonial past.

If you’re planning this route, don’t miss our Hobart to Launceston Road Trip Guide - packed with ideas for family stops, playgrounds, and overnight stays.

Launceston: Adventure and Country Charm

Things to Do in Launceston

Launceston has a relaxed pace and plenty to keep families entertained. Just minutes from the city, Cataract Gorge offers walking tracks, picnic areas, and even a chairlift with incredible views.

Kids will love the Harvest Market (Saturdays) with local produce and pastries, while parents can enjoy a tasting at the Tamar Valley Wine Route nearby.

Nature lovers can visit the Tamar Island Wetlands, where boardwalks weave through native bushland alive with birdlife.

Family Accommodation

Stay close to the action at Adina Place Motel Apartments, with spacious two- or three-bedroom options. There are also great holiday parks and cabins around the Tamar Valley, ideal if you’re road tripping with your Budget Launceston car hire and want an easy base between city and nature.

Family Adventures

For something different, take to the trees at Hollybank Treetops Adventure, just 20 minutes away. You can zipline through the canopy or take a guided night walk through the forest. It’s a hit with both kids and adults - and a great way to burn off some road-trip energy!

When it’s time to head home, drop off your rental at Launceston Airport before your flight, or continue your journey north to Devonport for the ferry back to the mainland.

Next Stop: Cradle Mountain Adventure

For families who love the outdoors, a trip to Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park is a must. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Launceston, winding through farmland and the artistic town of Sheffield - famous for its murals.

Once inside the park, you’ll find short, accessible walks like the Enchanted Walk (perfect for kids) or the Dove Lake Circuit, where you can spot wombats and wallabies in the wild.

If you’re planning this leg of the trip, check out our full Hobart to Cradle Mountain Drive blog for route tips, weather info, and accommodation ideas.

Best Time for a Family Road Trip in Tasmania

Tasmania’s compact size and mild climate make it a great year-round destination:

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Long, sunny days - perfect for beach stops and markets.
  

• Autumn (Mar–May): Crisp mornings and colourful foliage across the Midlands.
  

• Winter (Jun–Aug): Cosy firesides and snow-dusted peaks in the highlands.
  

• Spring (Sep–Nov): Blooming wildflowers and quieter attractions.
  

No matter when you go, pack layers. Tasmania’s weather can change quickly, especially between the coast and the mountains.

Tips for Family Driving in Tasmania

• Plan short driving days: Distances are small, but winding roads can slow you down.
  

• Watch for wildlife: Especially at dawn or dusk.
  

• Fuel up regularly: Country towns are charming, but petrol stations can be sparse.
  

• Choose the right car: A compact SUV or family 4WD from Budget gives you the comfort, space, and flexibility for both city streets and scenic drives.

Explore More with Budget

With Budget, exploring Tasmania is simple. Whether you’re picking up from Hobart Airport, Launceston, or even Devonport, our flexible rentals make it easy to start and finish your adventure wherever suits your family best.