Tasmania is Australia's southernmost island state, affectionately known as the "Heart-Shaped Island" due to its geographical outline. With roughly 40% of its land protected as national parks, nature reserves, and UNESCO World Heritage wilderness, it is a pristine travel destination celebrated as "Little New Zealand." Alongside breathtaking landscapes, the island boasts world-class culinary experiences, making it a dream road trip destination widely recommended across global travel guides!
This ultimate guide compiles my comprehensive Tasmania travel experiences, road trip itineraries, essential guides, planning tools, and must-visit attractions to help you seamlessly plan your own unforgettable adventure.
Tasmania Road Trip Guide: Australia's Heart-Shaped Island Attractions, Transportation, Food & Travel Tips!
Trip Preparation
Connectivity & Promo Codes
Transportation Guide
Rates, Insurance & Rental Tips
Age Restrictions & Self-Drive Tips
How to Use the Global Comparison Tool
Domestic Routes Across 9 Major Cities
Jetstar & Virgin Australia Flight Experience
Travel Map
Generally speaking, a self-drive road trip around Tasmania ideally requires around 7 to 10 days. With 7 days, you will have to make a few minor compromises, but you can comfortably cover the island's primary highlights. With 10 days, you can truly delve into each region at a relaxed pace. If you have fewer than 7 days (such as 4 to 5 days), I strongly recommend focusing entirely on either the East Coast or the West Coast rather than attempting a full island circuit, which would otherwise feel extremely rushed.
For our road trip, we spent 8 days and 7 nights doing a counter-clockwise self-drive loop, departing from the state capital, Hobart, as outlined on the interactive map below. I have pinned Tasmania's top attractions, recommended hotels, and key points of interest—feel free to save and bookmark this map as your ultimate on-the-go road trip companion!
Conclusion
Tasmania was the very first domestic destination I explored after arriving in Australia. Having visited several times since, I am convinced that this frequently overlooked island is one of the most stunning, raw, and rewarding places to discover anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere. Every return visit reveals captivating new sights, and I know I will keep returning to this unforgettable "Little New Zealand" for years to come!