From the vibrant capital city of Hobart to the renowned Tamar Valley wine region, dive into local culture and historic scenery with a road trip through Tasmania. We’ve listed premium places to dine, luxurious ways to tour and discover the area, as well as unmissable experiences while venturing into the ‘Island State’.
Hobart Exploration
Begin your journey through Tasmania in the state’s capital city. Upon your arrival in Hobart, pick up your rental car with ease from our Hertz Hobart Airport or Downtown branch, and set off toward the city centre where you’ll embark on your Tasmanian exploration. If you happen to be visiting Hobart on a Saturday, an outing to the Salamanca Market is highly recommended for a deep dive into local culture at one of the country’s most-loved markets. From antiques and collectables stalls like Henry Pumpworth to food and beverage stands like Crepe Haus and Charles Reuben Estate, delight in tastings and samples created by local artisans. If you can’t make it to the Markets on a Saturday, Salamanca Square is still an excellent spot to roam and enjoy the beauty of the historical buildings that line the streets; pop into a nearby coffee house or browse art on display. To make the most of your time in Hobart before travelling to your next destination, consider a day out at the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Admire the quirky and captivating art here, and elevate your experience with a visit to the on-site winery and vineyard or a high tea for two in the Ladies Lounge. 
Seafood Delights
From Hobart, your Tasmanian journey continues north along the coast toward Freycinet National Park - around a two-and-a-half-hour drive in your Hertz rental vehicle. Enjoy the coastal breeze as you pass through seaside towns and embrace the panoramic views of Tasmania’s east coast. Once you’ve arrived in Freycinet, embark on a luxury cruise to Wineglass Bay. You’ll spot wonderful wildlife and see an array of dramatic landscapes onboard a catamaran as you cruise across Wineglass Bay. With a ploughman’s style lunch included, all that’s left to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the serenity. During your time in Freycinet, consider joining a tour of the Great Oyster Bay. As the name suggests, this area is home to fruitful oyster farms, offering a seafood experience like no other. From harvesting fresh oysters out of the water to shucking and enjoying them with a delicious wine pairing, the Oyster Bay Tour offers an in-depth oyster exploration for all the seafood lovers in your travelling party. From here, the next stop on your Tasmanian road trip is Launceston - a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. 
Wilderness and Wine Country
Upon arrival in Launceston, visit the famed Cataract Gorge for a leisurely stroll through the scenic landscapes. Admire the view from above on the Gorge Scenic Chairlift - the world’s longest single-span chairlift. A visit here offers stunning views of the First Basin and South Esk River, as well as scenic dining at The Gorge Restaurant. Use your time here to explore Launceston further, perhaps visiting the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, or taking a heritage walk through the city. Delight in a flavourful meal at one of Tasmania’s most-awarded restaurants - Stillwater. Using fresh, local ingredients, Stillwater offers a two to three-course dinner menu, and an a la carte lunch menu to suit every palate. Continue your tour through taste with an exploration of the Tamar Valley wine region. Delve into a tour and tasting at Josef Chromy Wines, indulge with a Tasmanian grazing platter at Pipers Brook Vineyards, or head to Moores Hill Estateto taste their signature red, white and sparkling wines. Always remember to appoint a designated driver when enjoying alcohol on your road trip.
Last-Minute Leisure
Return to Launceston after your journey through the Tamar Valley and consider adding a unique wilderness experience to your holiday with a zipline or canopy walk at Hollybank Treetops Adventure. Prepare to farewell Tasmania as you depart Launceston to return to your starting point in Hobart. Take this time to visit any scenic spots or attractions you’ve yet to see along the way, like The Red Bridge in Campbell Town or the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary in Brighton, before returning your Hertz vehicle and heading home with cherished memories to look back on. Enjoy a delicious meal by the waterfront with lunch at Aloft, ending your trip with an unforgettable culinary experience.
As you reminisce on the coastal delights of Freycinet National Park and the culinary wonders of Launceston, your photo albums and memories will be filled with breathtaking landscapes and exquisite Tasmanian cuisine, urging you to one day return and explore the state even more.
