Hobart offers world-class dining, intriguing history and an edgy art scene, yet remains refreshingly unpretentious. Surrounded by vast wilderness, you could be climbing a mountain one day and delving into Australia’s largest privately owned museum, the next. Where to stay in Hobart is as simple as choosing between fantastic options, from luxury suites to budget hostels, as the tiny city is so easy to navigate.
It’s also the perfect base from which to explore many of Tasmania’s famous attractions, including Bruny Island and the World Heritage listed Port Arthur Historic Site. Check out our top picks for accommodation and get ready to fall in love with the capital of the Apple Isle.
Where to stay in Hobart: Luxury Accommodation
Salamanca Wharf Hotel
A sancturary in the heart of the action, at Salamanca Wharf. ©Salamanca Wharf Hotel
The old maritime village of Battery Point rests on the waterfront, with the cobblestoned square of Salamanca Place at its heart. Close by, you’ll find galleries, boutiques, theatres, cafes, a famous produce market and the Salamanca Wharf Hotel.
With rooms featuring custom Tasmanian furniture, granite benchtops and floor to ceiling windows, it’s a slice of luxury in the centre of the action. Best of all, you’ll find fully-equipped kitchens, so you can cook up a feast with the gourmet delicatessen treats you buy from the market.
Where: 17A Castray Esplanade
Phone: (03) 6224 7007
Website: Salamanca Wharf Hotel
Find a room at Salamanca Wharf Hotel
Islington Hotel
Boutique luxury awaits, at the Islington Hotel.©The Islington Hotel
Award-winning hotel, Islington, offers boutique serenity with lush Mount Wellington views. It’s the special details that stand out here, with original artworks, antiques, a glass pavilion and an infinity-edge pond to explore.
Built in the Regency style in 1847, the rooms at the hotel feature designer fabrics, marble bathrooms and rain showers. You don’t even need to go off site for dinner, with the Islington Restaurant serving innovative cuisine that focuses on seasonal, organic produce.
Where: 321 Davey Street
Phone: (03) 6220 2123
Website: Islington Hotel
Find a room at Islington Hotel
Henry Jones Art Hotel
An artist’s heaven everywhere you look, at Henry Jones. ©Henry Jones Art Hotel
In terms of iconic places to stay in Hobart, Henry Jones Art Hotel takes the proverbial cake. Australia’s first dedicated art hotel rests in Hobart’s oldest warehouses, yet its design is all about leading-edge art.
Exhibitions from Tasmanian artists are always changing and every space is used for creative expression. King-sized beds, flat-screen TV’s and European, stainless steel bathroom fittings blend with sandstone walls and original windows. Make sure you pop in for a drink at the award-winning IXL Long Bar.
Where: 22 Hunter Street
Phone: (03) 6210 7700
Website: Henry Jones Art Hotel
Sullivans Cove Apartments
A prestigious Sullivans Cove IXL apartment. ©Sullivans Cove Apartments
You’re spoilt for choice with Sullivans Cove Apartments, offering five-star accommodation across five districts, along Hobart’s waterfront. The central spots of Brooke Street, Gibson’s Mil, Hunter Street, Salamanca and Wapping are home to one, two, three and four bedroom, self-contained apartments including full kitchen and laundry facilities.
Designed in an array of contemporary styles, they offer a chance to have the comforts of home, while experiencing Hobart like a local – albeit a very lucky one given the prime, waterfront locations.
Where: 5/19A Hunter Street
Phone: (03) 6234 5063
Website: Sullivans Cove Apartments
Villa Howden
Villa Howden is all Tuscan-style with water views. ©Villa Howden
For tranquillity just a short drive from the city, Villa Howden’s Tuscan elegance provides the ultimate backdrop. Located on the shores of the North West Bay River, the estate resides among landscaped gardens, an indoor saltwater swimming pool, a bar and a restaurant.
Luxurious suites offer premier toiletries, full-length window balconies and complimentary in-suite bars. Among antiques and stylish furnishings, you’ll find all the mod cons you love to need, like iPod Docks, free Wi Fi and Nespresso coffee machines.
Where: 77 Howden Road
Phone: (03) 6267 1161
Website: Villa Howden
Where to stay in Hobart: Budget Accommodation
Motel Mayfair on Cavell
Quirky, historic charm comes with great prices at Motel Mayfair. ©Motel Mayfair on Cavell
If you love a bit of old-world eccentricity, Motel Mayfair on Cavell delivers, at great-value prices. Perfect for families, groups or honeymooners, suites, private rooms and apartments are individually designed and equipped with coffee-making facilities, fridges and en-suites. Some even boast full kitchens, spas and balconies with city views. The hotel is just a short drive from Salamanca Place and, if you fancy a roll of the dice, you can see the casino from the front of the property.
Where: 17-19 Cavell Street
Phone: (03) 6231 1188
Website: Motel Mayfair on Cavell
Riverfront Motel & Villas
Family-friendly fun by the Derwent River. ©Riverfront Motel & Villas
Every type of accommodation option is available, on the banks of the Derwent River. Riverfront Motel & Villas is perfectly located to visit the Cadbury Chocolate Factory, Moorilla Estate and the Museum of Old & New Art. Choose from villas and motel rooms, with a children’s playground, half-size tennis court, swimming pool, restaurant and bar, also onsite. Or, splash out with a large group and stay in your own house, complete with all the self-catering options of home.
Where: 11 Strathaven Drive
Phone: (03) 6272 6721
Website: Riverfront Motel & Villas
Backpackers Imperial Hotel
Backpacking with retro vibes, in the heart of town. ©Backpackers Imperial Hotel
When you’re backpacking, staying in the centre of town is usually at the top of the wish list. Backpackers Imperial Hotel sits right in the middle of the CBD, within a short stroll to pubs, cafes and supermarkets. Sleep soundly in the retro-style private or dorm rooms and make new friends in the dining area, kitchen and lounge. The staff are always happy to help out with your travel plans.
Where: 138 Collins Street
Phone: (03) 6223 5215
Website: Backpackers Imperial Hotel
Find a room at Backpackers Imperial Hotel
Hobart’s Accommodation and Hostel
Hobart Hostel is the place to make new friends. ©Hobart Hostel
Fresh, bright colours, garden views and friendly guests characterise Hobart’s Accommodation and Hostel, just a short walk from the CBD. Choose between private rooms with en-suites and shared bathrooms, or dorm rooms. You can spend your mornings on the sunny terrace and chill out after sightseeing in the guest lounge, communal kitchen or at the internet kiosk.
Where: 41 Barrack Street
Phone: (03) 6234 6122
Website: Hobart Hostel
Discovery Parks Hobart
Discovery Parks deluxe cabins. ©Discovery Parks Hobart
If you’re travelling around Tasmania with the caravan, or you just want the kids to stay occupied with fun, Discovery Parks Hobart is the spot for you. Just a short drive from the CBD, near the Meehan Range State Recreation Area, the park offers powered sites and self-contained cottages and cabins. Best of all, there’s a children’s playground, beach volleyball court, barbeque facilities, Putt-Putt golf and pets are welcome.
Where: East Derwent Highway
Phone: (03) 6243 7185
Website: Discovery Parks Hobart
Find a room at Discovery Parks
Flights to Hobart
