The waterfront of Hobart, Tasmania Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hobart_TAS_Australia_1.jpg Author: Andrea Schaffer
Hobart is the capital and biggest city in Tasmania. Founded in 1803, Hobart is older than any other city in Australia except Sydney. It covers an area of 1357 sq km (524 sq mi) and has a population of 212,000 people (2010 estimate).
Boats in the Hobart waterfront Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HobartTasmania001.jpg Author: Tischa Baker
Hobart began as a penal colony that was established in 1803 at Risdon Cove, by the eastern bank of the Derwent River. It was named after the Colonial Secretary, Robert Hobart, 4th Earl of Buckinghamshire (1760-1816).
Hobart enjoys a mild temperate oceanic climate. Warmest months are January and February, when the average high temperature reaches 21.6°C (70.9°F). During the Summer solstice Hobart receives as much as 15 hours of sunlight, more than any other major city in Australia. June and July are the coldest months, with average low temperature falling to -2.8°C (27°F). The wettest month is October, although the months of June to November are relatively wet.
Hobart Post Office at dawn Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Metro_office_at_dawn_Hobart.jpg Author: Jorge Lascar
Going to Hobart
The main gateway is the Hobart International Airport (HBA). The airport gets flights from Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Blue, Tasair and Tiger Airways.
Moving about Hobart
If you are exploring only Hobart and not the rest of Tasmania, you can either rent a car or take the public bus.
Tasman Bridge, the bridge that spans the Derwent River in Hobart Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tasman_Bridge_Dusk.jpg Author: Flying Freddy
Places of Interest in Hobart
Battery Point Maritime village with views of the Derwent River.
Castray Esplanade Riverside walk with views of the city.
Constitution Dock Main anchorage for fishing boats in Hobart.
Criminal Courts and Penitentiary Chapel Former 19th prison complex now a museum.
Hunter Street Historic harbour-side locale in Hobart.
Maritime Museum of Tasmania Museum charting the seafaring history of Tasmania.
Narryna Heritage Museum Oldest folk museum in Australia.
Parliament House Oldest civic building in Hobart.
Salamanca Place Centre of the arts and creative scene in Hobart.
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery 19th century building with fine collection of prints and paintings.