Located around 240km south of the mainland of Australia, Tasmania is so very different to the rest of the country. The spectacular winding country roads, surrounded by snow-capped mountains or white sandy beaches with crystal clear water as well as rugged coastal cliffs. What’s not to like about this adventure-filled state? It doesn’t matter where you drive, you will find something to suit everyone whether it’s hiking, snorkelling, restaurant hopping or a history lesson.

We promised ourselves that we would start exploring more of our very own backyard, Australia, after returning from living in London. Having booked affordable return flights to Launceston, Tasmania, we started to plan our itinerary. We quickly realised that one week is not enough and we needed much longer! But, not wanting to change flights we thought we’d pack as much into our week as possible.

This is our 1-week itinerary for you to make the most out of this incredible part of Australia. We started and ended our trip in Launceston, but you could easily do it from Hobart as well.

8-day itinerary for Tasmania

Day 1: Arrive Launceston and Drive to Cradle Mountain

Day 2: Cradle Mountain

Day 3: Cradle Mountain to Hobart

Day 4: Hobart

Day 5: Hobart to Freycinet National Park

Day 6: Freycinet National Park

Day 7: Freycinet National Park to Bay of Fires

Day 8: Bay of Fires to Launceston

Tasmania is probably one of the most beautiful parts of Australia. As you drive through this island state, you are surrounded by incredible beauty whether it be nature or wildlife. For those who enjoy a nice meal, Tassie is home to some amazing restaurants and particularly for those who like a bit of outdoor adventure, you won’t be disappointed by the hikes on offer. Whatever you’re after, there is something for everyone.

Packing Guide for Tasmania

The thing to know about Tasmania is that you need to be prepared for any season. We started our trip off with plenty of warm and sunny days – a couple of days before it was snowing! When we got further south into Hobart, it was freezing! Click here for a complete packing guide and checklist for Tasmania.

Day 1 & 2 – Cradle Mountain

The drive from Launceston to Cradle Mountain is around 2 hours. We only had one full day in Cradle Mountain so were limited with the hikes that we chose to do. We hiked Marion’s Lookout, Dove Lake and a few smaller walks around our hotel, Cradle Mountain Lodge.

Click here for everything you need to know about hiking Marion’s Lookout and Dove Lake.

We also stopped by and visited Devils@Cradle for a Tasmanian Devil feeding tour. It was amazing to see these little devils up close and personal and to learn all about what makes them so unique. Click here to find out more.

Day 3 and 4 – Hobart

Followed by a few small walks around our hotel in Cradle Mountain, we were off to Hobart. Our first stop was Mount Wellington and it was absolutely spectacular! For ideas on how to spend a day in Hobart, click here.

Day 5 and 6 – Freycinet National Park

Even though we had some overcast weather, we still had an amazing time! This is of course home to the famous Wineglass Bay! We also jumped on a Scenic Flight over the national park and the views were to die for.

Day 7 and 8 – Bay of Fires

Probably some of the most beautiful beaches we’ve seen in Australia! Imagine seeing the bright orange rocks next to the crystal clear waters. It was breathtaking! Click here to find out more about the Bay of Fires and where to visit.

The Great Eastern Drive

If you end up doing a road trip like this, you will end up driving the Great Eastern Drive! Click here to read more about this incredible drive.

More on Tasmania?

We have written up heaps of things to do in Tasmania including some small walks, waterfalls, feeding a pig a beer and heaps more. Click here for our page on Tasmania which includes all of our posts. Remember to click through to page 2!

Do you have travel insurance?

Before travelling, make sure you get a travel insurance policy – you never know when you might need it! Click here for information on travel insurance, what company we recommend and a link to get an instant quote.

Alternative accommodation

If you’re looking for alternative accommodation to either save some money or share with friends or family, click here for information on Air B&B ($50 discount on your first booking), hotel price comparison websites etc.

What’s your favourite part of Tasmania? Let us know in the comments below!

“To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.” -Bill Bryson