Hobart, Tasmania’s capital, may be small but it’s bursting with creative energy and a vibrant cultural scene. A weekend here is the perfect amount of time to soak up art, music, history and local life, all while enjoying the city’s charming waterfront and mountain backdrop. Whether you love contemporary art, historic architecture or lively local markets, these recommendations will help you make the most of Hobart’s artsy side.
Salamanca Arts Centre and Salamanca Market
Nestled along Hobart's historic waterfront, Salamanca Place is a vibrant hub of creativity and community. Home to the renowned Salamanca Arts Centre and the bustling Salamanca Market, this area offers a rich tapestry of art, history, and local flavor.
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Established in 1976, the Salamanca Arts Centre (SAC) occupies a row of 19th-century sandstone warehouses, once central to Hobart's maritime trade. Today, these buildings house galleries, studios, and performance spaces, fostering a dynamic arts community. Visitors can explore contemporary exhibitions, attend live performances, or participate in workshops, all within this historic setting. The Centre's commitment to showcasing diverse artistic expressions makes it a cornerstone of Tasmania's cultural landscape.
Every Saturday, Salamanca Place transforms into a lively market, attracting thousands of visitors. Since its official inception in 1972, the market has grown to feature over 300 stalls, offering everything from handcrafted goods to fresh local produce. Street performers add to the festive atmosphere, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. The market's emphasis on locally made products ensures a unique shopping experience that supports Tasmanian artisans and producers.
The proximity of the Salamanca Arts Centre and Salamanca Market creates a unique synergy between art and commerce. Visitors can spend the morning browsing the market's diverse offerings and then immerse themselves in the artistic experiences provided by the Centre. This blend of activities encapsulates the spirit of Hobart—a city where creativity and community thrive side by side.
MONA: Tasmania’s Bold and Unforgettable Art Museum
No visit to Tasmania is complete without experiencing the Museum of Old and New Art, better known as MONA. Located on the banks of the River Derwent just a short ferry ride from Hobart, MONA is Australia’s largest privately funded museum and has become one of the island’s top attractions. With its provocative exhibitions, striking architecture, and playful attitude toward art and culture, MONA offers visitors an experience like no other museum in the country.
Founded by Tasmanian gambler and art collector David Walsh, MONA is anything but traditional. The museum is built mostly underground, creating a cavernous, mysterious atmosphere that feels more like exploring a labyrinth than walking through gallery halls. Exhibits range from ancient antiquities to cutting-edge contemporary art, and the collection often pushes boundaries, inviting visitors to question, laugh, and sometimes even squirm. There are no wall labels; instead, guests use a custom-designed device called The O to learn about each piece at their own pace. MONA’s irreverent approach has made it a must-see for art lovers and curious travellers alike.
MONA is an experience that extends beyond the art on its walls. The museum hosts live performances, festivals, and special events throughout the year, including the wildly popular summer festival MOFO and the midwinter festival Dark Mofo. These events transform Hobart into a hub of music, light, food, and wild creativity. Visitors can also enjoy MONA’s on-site restaurants and bars, which serve up gourmet Tasmanian produce, local wines, and craft beer brewed at the museum’s own Moorilla Winery and Moo Brew Brewery. Whether you stay for a few hours or the whole day, MONA is a feast for the senses.
Getting There and Making the Most of Your Visit: Getting to MONA is part of the adventure. Many visitors choose to take the MONA ferry from Hobart’s waterfront, which features sheep-shaped seats and art on board to get you in the mood before you arrive. Once there, take your time exploring the exhibits, wander the outdoor grounds with their quirky sculptures, and relax with a glass of local wine overlooking the river. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during festivals and peak travel times. If you want to indulge, consider staying at MONA’s luxury accommodation, MONA Pavilions, for an overnight art immersion.
Tasmania Museum and Art Gallery
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, affectionately known as TMAG, is one of Australia’s oldest museums and a favourite stop for locals and visitors alike. Housed in a collection of beautiful heritage buildings on Dunn Place, TMAG combines natural history, social history and fine art under one roof. It’s a place where you can admire colonial paintings, discover Tasmania’s remarkable wildlife, and gain insight into the island’s First Nations cultures through thoughtfully curated exhibitions.
Families love TMAG for its interactive displays and changing exhibitions that keep kids engaged while adults can dive deep into Tasmania’s fascinating past. Best of all, entry is free, making it an accessible and worthwhile stop on any Hobart itinerary. Whether you spend half an hour or a whole afternoon, you’ll leave with a greater appreciation of the stories that shaped this unique island.
Theatre Royal
Just a few streets away, the Theatre Royal is another gem that captures Hobart’s cultural spirit. First opened in 1837, it’s Australia’s oldest continually operating theatre and an architectural beauty that has hosted countless performances over its long history. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time: from the grand Georgian façade to the plush, intimate interior, the theatre oozes old-world charm.
Today, the Theatre Royal remains a vibrant hub for the performing arts, presenting everything from local plays and musicals to concerts and touring international shows. There’s nothing quite like watching a live performance in this historic venue, where every seat feels close to the action and the sense of tradition adds an extra layer of magic to the experience.
If you’re planning a visit, check the Theatre Royal’s program in advance and book a show to round out your cultural adventure in Hobart. Even if you don’t have time for a performance, guided tours are sometimes available, giving you a backstage peek into this grand old building’s secrets and stories.
Whether you’re marvelling at MONA’s bold contemporary exhibitions, browsing local art and handmade treasures at Salamanca, uncovering Tasmania’s natural and cultural history at TMAG, or enjoying a live performance at the Theatre Royal, Hobart’s arts and culture scene has something to captivate every traveller. Together, these iconic spots offer a rich blend of old and new, celebrating Tasmania’s creativity, community and fascinating past. Take the time to explore each one and you’ll leave Hobart with a deeper appreciation for the island’s artistic spirit and warm local character.
