The Ultimate 9 Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

Bay of Fires Tasmania

Planning the perfect Tasmania road trip itinerary? This detailed 9 day Tasmania itinerary covers everything you need—from iconic landmarks like Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay to hidden gems like Bruny Island and the Bay of Fires.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, this self-drive Tasmania itinerary is designed to help you experience the island’s best landscapes, food, and coastal beauty—without feeling rushed.

 


Day 1: Hobart Itinerary – Where to Start Your Tasmania Road Trip

Your Tasmania road trip begins in Hobart, the island’s vibrant capital and cultural hub.

Spend the day exploring Salamanca Place, visiting galleries, and enjoying the waterfront. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, the Salamanca Market is a must.

Drive up Mount Wellington (kunanyi) for panoramic views over Hobart—one of the best ways to start your trip.

Things to do in Hobart:

  • Visit MONA (Museum of Old and New Art)
  • Walk through Battery Point
  • Enjoy fresh seafood by the harbor


Day 2: Bruny Island Day Trip – A Must-Do in Any Tasmania Itinerary

No Tasmania travel itinerary is complete without a Bruny Island day trip.

Just a short ferry ride from Hobart, Bruny Island is known for dramatic coastlines, wildlife, and incredible local produce.

Top things to do on Bruny Island:

  • The Neck Lookout (iconic Tasmania photo spot)
  • Cape Bruny Lighthouse
  • Taste local oysters, cheese, and fresh bread
  • Spot wildlife like wallabies and seabirds

Return to Hobart for the evening.


Day 3: Hobart → Russell Falls → Nelson Falls → Strahan (West Coast Road Trip)

Today marks the beginning of your Tasmania west coast road trip.

First stop: Russell Falls in Mount Field National Park—one of the most famous waterfall walks in Tasmania.

Continue through Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park to Nelson Falls, another short rainforest walk worth stopping for.

End your day in Strahan, a remote coastal town.

Drive time: ~5 hours


Day 4: Strahan → Cradle Mountain

Spend the morning exploring Strahan or take a Gordon River cruise before heading north.

Arrive at Cradle Mountain, one of the highlights of any Tasmania itinerary with Cradle Mountain.

Settle in and prepare for a day of alpine adventure.


Day 5: Cradle Mountain Itinerary – National Park Highlights

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a must-see on any Tasmania road trip route.

Walk the famous Dove Lake Circuit, one of the best short hikes in Tasmania, with incredible views of the mountain.

Things to do in Cradle Mountain:

  • Dove Lake Circuit walk
  • Marion’s Lookout hike
  • Wildlife spotting (wombats, wallabies, echidnas)


Day 6: Cradle Mountain → Bay of Fires (East Coast Road Trip)

Today you transition from mountains to coast on your Tasmania east coast road trip.

Drive northeast to the Bay of Fires, known for its white sand beaches and orange-lichen-covered rocks.

Base yourself near Binalong Bay for the night.

Drive time: ~5–6 hours


Day 7: Bay of Fires Tasmania – Beaches & Relaxation

The Bay of Fires is one of the most beautiful stops on any Tasmania road trip itinerary.

Spend the day exploring beaches, swimming, or simply relaxing.

Things to do:

  • Walk along the Bay of Fires coastline
  • Swim in crystal-clear waters
  • Watch sunrise or sunset

Day 8: Bay of Fires → Freycinet National Park (Wineglass Bay Tasmania)

Drive south to Freycinet National Park, home to the iconic Wineglass Bay.

Hike to the Wineglass Bay lookout, one of the most photographed views in Tasmania. Continue down to the beach if you’re feeling adventurous.

Drive time: ~2.5–3 hours


Day 9: Freycinet → Hobart – Complete Your Tasmania Road Trip Route

Wrap up your 9 day Tasmania road trip itinerary with a scenic drive back to Hobart.

Stop in coastal towns like Swansea or visit a vineyard along the way.

Drive time: ~2.5 hours


How to Plan a Tasmania Road Trip (Essential Tips)

If you’re wondering how to plan a Tasmania road trip, here are key tips:

1. Rent a car
A self-drive trip is the best way to explore Tasmania.

2. Book ahead
Accommodation in Cradle Mountain and Freycinet fills quickly.

3. Watch for wildlife
Drive carefully at dawn and dusk.

4. Pack layers
Tasmania weather changes quickly—even in summer.

5. Plan fuel stops
Some remote areas have limited petrol stations.


What to See in Tasmania in 9 Days

This Tasmania itinerary 9 days covers all the must-see highlights:

  • Hobart (culture, food, city vibes)
  • Bruny Island (coastline + local produce)
  • Russell Falls & Nelson Falls (rainforest walks)
  • Cradle Mountain (alpine landscapes)
  • Bay of Fires (beaches + relaxation)
  • Wineglass Bay (iconic views)

Why This is the Best 9 Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary

This route is designed to:

  • Minimise backtracking
  • Balance driving and downtime
  • Include both east and west coast highlights
  • Cover Tasmania’s most iconic destinations

It’s ideal for first-time visitors looking for the best stops on a Tasmania road trip.


Tasmania Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Tasmania is one of Australia’s most rewarding destinations for a road trip. With its diverse landscapes, incredible wildlife, and slower pace, it’s perfect for travellers who want both adventure and relaxation.

This Tasmania self drive itinerary with Bruny Island, Cradle Mountain, and Wineglass Bay gives you the ultimate introduction to the island.

Once you go, you’ll understand why so many people return again and again.


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