Make the most of an overnight stay in Tasmania's capital city.
Breakfast at Room for a Pony
There's no better way to kick off a day in Hobart than with a big breakfast at a café that nails the balance between trendiness and comfort. Room for a Pony is just the place, with an all-day breakfast menu and strong coffee that keeps both the locals and tourists coming back again and again. You can expect all your classic brunch and brekky favourites here, from smashed avo to eggs benny, alongside potato rösti, huevos rancheros, and a granola or smoothie bowl. Strong coffee, fresh juices and Bloody Marys are all on offer too, depending on your mood, but be sure to eat up big because you've got a huge day ahead of you.
Jump on a fancy ferry to MONA
Even though your time in Hobart is limited to 24 hours, MONA still reigns supreme as the city's premier attraction. It's just north of Hobart and can be reached by car or ferry, though we're always going to recommend opting for the ferry to enjoy the full experience. Take it a step further by selecting the 'posh pit' ticket – a private lounge on the ferry that comes with drinks, canapés and ultra lush furnishings.
Described by its founder David Walsh as a “subversive adult Disneyland”, MONA was built on the grounds of his Moorilla Estate winery back in 2011 –, so consider this a two birds/one stone scenario. You can take in the mind-blowing art at MONA (considered one of the most controversial and provocative private collections in the world) then taste an incredible lineup of wines at the Moorilla cellar door. If that's not enough, you can also drop in at Moo Brew to try some of Tasmania's favourite craft beers, or book in at one of the on-site restaurants – our pick is The Source. Trust us on this – MONA is bucket list place. Do not skip the gift shop.
Sail from MONA to Hobart's waterfront
Having enjoyed some art, lunch and a tasting or two, it's time to leave the unforgettable world of MONA behind and return to Hobart. Ferries run between the museum and city throughout the afternoon, meaning you can call the shots when it comes to timings. The bustling waterfront area is the heart and soul of Hobart, so take some time to stroll along the historic wharf and soak up the afternoon sunshine (if you're lucky).
On Saturdays from 8.30am to 3pm, Salamanca Place comes alive with its famous market. Be sure to pick up a curried scallop pie to enjoy as you peruse the stalls.
Whisky tasting at Lark Distilling Co.
Any Aussie whisky-lover will know the name Bill Lark. Widely considered the father of Australian whisky, Bill was a pioneer in the Tasmanian whisky industry and remains at its forefront, with his distillery achieving carbon neutral certification in 2021. In the same year, Lark was also nominated by the International Whisky and Spirits Competition as the Worldwide Whisky Producer of the Year, so it's safe to say that they're doing incredible things in both the whisky and sustainability worlds. The cellar door, which is right by the waterfront, has over 250 international whiskies available for tasting and you can also sample Lark's full range side-by-side with a tasting flight.
Dinner and drinks at Institut Polaire
One of the coolest wine bars in town, Institut Polaire was opened by Louise Radman and Nav Singh after the two moved from the mainland in 2012. They're also the pair behind Domaine Simha, a highly sought-after wine producer known for making natural wines in very, very small batches. It's here, at Institut Polaire, that you can taste the wines, with the bar acting as a cellar door for both Domaine Simha and Süd Polaire, the latter of which produces small-batch spirits. Then pick up a bottle of rarely seen wine or settle in for a truly special dining experience. Developed around Tasmania’s status as the gateway to Antarctica, the cuisine features produce from some of the world’s most revered and challenging cold-climate terroir. Sip a signature Süd Polaire Antarctic dry Martini or select a bottle from their award-winning wine list while you enjoy a seasonal set menu or fresh bar plates featuring ethical produce from quality local growers, fishers and farmers.
