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Launceston
📍 163 Brisbane Street, Launceston, Tasmania 7250View map ›

🗓 Best Time To Visit:December to February

⏰ Open Hours:N/A

🎯 Things To Do:Visit Cataract Gorge, Explore City Park, Attend Festivale, Wine tasting in Tamar Valley, Visit Queen Victoria Museum, Seaport precinct

💰 Budget:$100-$200 per day including meals, transportation and attractions

👥 Traveller Types:Families, Solo Travellers, Adventure Seekers, Wine Lovers

🔍 Known For:Cataract Gorge, Historic architecture, Wine Region, Beautiful parks, Tamar Valley

📍 Distances:15 km from Launceston Airport, 102 km from Devonport, 201 km from Hobart

🍷 Local Wine:Tamar Valley is renowned for its award-winning wines

🍽 Local Cuisine:Famous for Tasmanian Salmon, Leatherwood Honey, Pyengana Dairy cheese

🚵 Outdoor Activities:Mountain biking at Blue Derby, hiking at Cradle Mountain

🏛 Heritage Sites:Woolmers Estate, Brickendon Farm, Albert Hall

Have questions about Launceston?Ask the Tripoto Community ›

Launceston: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Tasmania's Northern Gem

Are you looking for a destination that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, culinary delights and adventure? Look no further than Launceston, the second-largest city in Tasmania and one of the oldest in Australia. Launceston is a charming city that offers a range of attractions and activities for all kinds of travellers.

Whether you want to explore the stunning Cataract Gorge, visit the impressive Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, taste the award-winning wines of the Tamar Valley, or discover the nearby Cradle Mountain, Launceston has something for everyone.

In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know to plan your trip to Launceston, including how to get there, when to visit, where to stay, what to see and do, and where to eat and drink. Read on and get ready to fall in love with Launceston!

How to Get to Launceston

Launceston is located in the north of Tasmania, about 200 kilometres from the state capital, Hobart. The easiest and fastest way to get to Launceston is by air, as the city has its own airport that connects with major Australian cities, such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. You can also fly to Hobart and then take a scenic drive or a bus to Launceston, which takes about 2.5 hours.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Melbourne to Devonport, which is about an hour away from Launceston by road. If you are travelling by car, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Tasmanian countryside and stop at some of the charming towns and villages along the way, such as Ross, Campbell Town, Deloraine and Westbury.

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When to Visit Launceston

Launceston has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons. The average temperature ranges from 12°C in winter to 21°C in summer. The best time to visit Launceston depends on your preferences and interests, as each season offers something different.

- Spring (September to November) is a lovely time to visit Launceston, as the city comes alive with colourful flowers, greenery and wildlife. The weather is mild and pleasant, and there are many festivals and events to enjoy, such as the Blooming Tasmania Flower and Garden Festival, the Junction Arts Festival and the Tasmanian Craft Fair.

- Summer (December to February) is the peak season for tourism in Launceston, as the weather is warm and sunny, and the days are long. This is the ideal time to enjoy the outdoor activities and attractions, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing and golfing. You can also experience some of the most popular events and festivals, such as the Festivale, the Launceston Cup and the MONA FOMA.

- Autumn (March to May) is another beautiful time to visit Launceston, as the city turns into a kaleidoscope of red, orange and yellow hues. The weather is still mild and comfortable, and the crowds are less. You can also catch some of the cultural and culinary events, such as the Ten Days on the Island, the Taste the Harvest and the Tamar Valley Writers Festival.

- Winter (June to August) is the coldest and wettest season in Launceston, but it also has its charm and advantages. The weather is crisp and clear, and the snow-capped mountains create a stunning backdrop. You can also enjoy some of the indoor attractions and activities, such as visiting the museums, galleries, theatres and cafes. You can also take advantage of the lower prices and fewer tourists.

Where to Stay in Launceston

Launceston offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget, style and taste. You can choose from hotels, apartments, retreats, lodges, bed and breakfasts, hostels and more. Here are some of the best and most popular places to stay in Launceston, based on our own experience and the reviews of other travellers:

Peppers Silo Hotel: This is a unique and luxurious hotel that is housed in four former grain silos on the banks of the Tamar River. The hotel features spacious and modern rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a gym and a library. You can enjoy the stunning views of the river and the city, and the friendly service of the staff. The hotel is also pet-friendly and has a resident dog, Archie, who will greet you at the reception.

Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston: This is a classic and elegant hotel that is located in the heart of the city, close to the main attractions, shops and restaurants. The hotel offers comfortable and stylish rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre and a conference centre. You can also enjoy the complimentary Wi-Fi, parking and shuttle service to the airport.

The Florance: This is a charming and cosy bed and breakfast that is set in a heritage-listed building from the 1880s. The bed and breakfast features cosy and colourful rooms, a lounge, a dining room, a garden and a terrace. You can also enjoy the delicious and homemade breakfast, the free Wi-Fi and the friendly hosts.

Pod Inn: This is a modern and affordable hostel that is located in the centre of the city, near the Cataract Gorge. The hostel offers pod-style beds, private rooms, a shared kitchen, a lounge, a laundry and a bike rental service. You can also enjoy the free Wi-Fi, breakfast and coffee, and the social atmosphere.

What to See and Do in Launceston

Launceston is a city that has something for everyone, from nature lovers to culture vultures, from foodies to thrill-seekers. Here are some of the top attractions and activities that you should not miss in Launceston:

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Cataract Gorge:

This is the most iconic and popular attraction in Launceston, and for a good reason. Cataract Gorge is a stunning natural wonder that is located just a few minutes from the city centre. You can explore the gorge by walking along the trails, crossing the suspension bridge, taking the chairlift, or swimming in the pool. You can also enjoy the scenic views, the wildlife, the gardens and the cafe.

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Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery:

This is the largest and oldest museum and art gallery in Australia, and a must-see for anyone interested in the history, culture and art of Tasmania. The museum and art gallery are housed in two separate buildings, one in the city and one at the Inveresk precinct. You can admire the impressive collections of natural history, colonial art, Aboriginal culture, science and technology, and more. You can also visit the Planetarium, Phenomena Factory and the Railway Workshop.

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Tamar Valley:

This is a picturesque region that stretches along the Tamar River, from Launceston to the Bass Strait. The valley is famous for its fertile soil, lush scenery and award-winning wines. You can explore the valley by driving along the Tamar Valley Wine Route, which covers more than 30 wineries, cellar doors and restaurants. You can also enjoy other activities, such as wildlife watching, fishing, boating, golfing and cycling.

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Cradle Mountain:

This is one of the most spectacular and iconic landmarks in Tasmania, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cradle Mountain is located about 2 hours from Launceston, and is part of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. You can admire the majestic mountain and the serene lake, and hike along the famous Overland Track. You can also spot some of the native animals, such as wombats, wallabies, echidnas and platypuses.

Where to Eat and Drink in Launceston

Launceston is a foodie's paradise, as it offers a diverse and delicious range of dining and drinking options. You can taste the fresh and local produce, such as seafood, cheese, berries, honey and truffles. You can also sample the exquisite wines, beers, ciders and spirits that are made in the region. Here are some of the best and most popular places to eat and drink in Launceston, based on our own experience and the reviews of other travellers:

Stillwater:

This is a fine dining restaurant that is located in a historic flour mill on the banks of the Tamar River. The restaurant serves contemporary Australian cuisine, with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. You can enjoy the exquisite dishes, such as oysters, scallops, lamb, duck and cheese, and pair them with the excellent wines from the extensive list. You can also enjoy the elegant and cosy ambience, and the stunning views of the river and the city.

Geronimo Aperitivo Bar and Restaurant:

This is a trendy and lively bar and restaurant that is located in the centre of the city, near the Princess Theatre. The bar and restaurant offer a modern and creative menu, with a variety of dishes, such as tapas, pizzas, salads, burgers and desserts. You can also enjoy the drinks, such as cocktails, wines, beers and spirits, and the music, entertainment and events.

Cafe Mondello:

This is a cosy and friendly cafe that is located in the city, near the City Park. The cafe offers a delicious and hearty breakfast and lunch menu, with dishes such as eggs, pancakes, sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups. You can also enjoy the coffee, tea, smoothies and juices, and the baked goods, such as cakes, muffins, scones and croissants. You can also enjoy the warm and welcoming atmosphere, and the service of the staff.

Saint John Craft Beer:

This is a cool and casual bar that is located in the city, near the Quadrant Mall. The bar offers a wide and varied selection of craft beers, ciders and spirits, from local and international breweries and distilleries. You can also enjoy the food, such as burgers, pizzas, tacos and nachos, and the music, entertainment and events.

Launceston is a city that will surprise and delight you with its natural beauty, cultural heritage, culinary delights and adventure. Whether you want to explore the stunning Cataract Gorge, visit the impressive Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, taste the award-winning wines of the Tamar Valley, or discover the nearby Cradle Mountain, Launceston has something for everyone. We hope that this article has given you some useful and inspiring information to plan your trip to Launceston. If you have any questions, comments or feedback, please feel free to share them with us. We would love to hear from you.

And if you are ready to book your trip to Launceston, don't hesitate to contact us. We can help you find the best deals and offers for your travel needs. Launceston awaits you!

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