Day trips
Launceston
Launceston to Hobart via Wineglass Bay Active Tour
A full-day transfer tour from Launceston to Hobart with guided walks, East Coast scenery and time in Freycinet National Park.
12 hours
from
A$215.00
Overview
Launceston, Tasmania
Launceston is a compact Tasmanian city with Cataract Gorge within walking distance, handy buses, cheap supermarkets and a strong hostel scene for short stays.
Launceston’s one big flex is Cataract Gorge — a dramatic river, walking tracks, suspension bridge and a chairlift all a short walk from the CBD. It’s rare to find proper wilderness a ten‑minute stroll from town. The city itself is small, walkable and the perfect base for Tamar Valley wine runs or east‑coast escapes. Hostels cluster near the CBD, which means cheap shared kitchens and easy nights out on Brisbane Street. Budget hack: skip paid tours and pack a picnic from Coles or Woolworths — spend a free day at the Gorge, use local buses for short hops and save cash for a Tassie weekend road trip.
Things to do
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Things to know
Get to know Launceston
Top 4 things you need to know before travelling to Launceston
Getting in and around
Launceston Airport is about 15–20 minutes by taxi or airport shuttle to the CBD; book late arrivals in advance. Metro and regional coaches connect to Hobart and Devonport — book weekends and public‑holiday trips early. Rideshares and taxis run but walking covers most inner‑city needs.
Cataract Gorge practicalities
Cataract Gorge is a public park with free access and a good network of walking trails; the chairlift, café and pool cost extra. It’s an ideal no‑cost day: arrive early, pack water and snacks from a supermarket and avoid cliff edges after rain.
Money, food and hostels
Stock up at Coles or Woolworths in the CBD to cook in hostel kitchens — cheaper than eating out. Hostels tend to be priced in backpacker-friendly bands but book in high season (Oct–Apr). Many pubs accept cards; ATMs are available but watch fees.
Weather and packing
Tasmania’s weather changes fast — expect cool evenings year‑round. Bring layers and a waterproof shell for sudden showers. Summer days can be pleasant, but nights remain cool, so don’t rely on just a T‑shirt.
Why backpackers love Launceston
Backpackers like Launceston because it’s compact, cheap and social. Hostels are central so you’ll meet people in communal kitchens and jump on day trips together. The city has affordable pubs and food trucks; cooking from the big supermarkets keeps costs down. Transport is straightforward: buses and regional coaches link to Hobart, Devonport and winery runs, while Launceston Airport is a quick taxi or shuttle ride from town.
It’s easy to base here for 2–3 days, do the Gorge, hit a winery, then push out to the coast without wasting a day travelling.
FAQ
Travel FAQs Launceston
Common questions backpackers ask about Launceston
The airport is a short drive from the CBD—taxis and rideshares take around 15–20 minutes; several shuttle services run to central hostels and hotels. If you arrive late, pre‑book a transfer to avoid long waits.
Yes. Regional coaches and local buses cover popular day trips like the Tamar Valley and east‑coast shuttle routes. For more remote spots consider a organised day tour or split rental costs with fellow travellers.
There’s a public swimming area and seasonal pool at the Gorge with lifeguarded hours at peak times. Always check local signage for closures and avoid swimming near fast currents or after heavy rain.
Book hostels and popular tours early for October–April (spring and summer). Long weekends and school holidays sell out; if you’re travelling midweek you can often secure last‑minute beds.
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