11 Great Things to Do in Launceston: What to Do and See (Tasmania)

11 Great Things to Do in Launceston: What to Do and See (Tasmania)

A useful guide for those looking for things to do in Launceston, Tasmania. Find out what to do and see and make the most of your trip to beautiful Lonnie!

Launceston is Tasmania's second largest city and is widely ranked as one of Australia's most livable cities. Lonnie, as the Taswegians call it, is a center for history, culture, food and nature.

If you're visiting Tasmania and planning a trip to the city, then I've got you covered with this quick guide to help you plan your things to do in Launceston. I've also included a quick guide at the end of this blog post with some recommendations for places to stay! Enjoy.

11 great things to do in Launceston

1. Visit Cataract Gorge

If you ask anyone what the best things to do in Launceston are, many will probably tell you that you should check out Cataract Gorge. This beautiful river and gorge is the main attraction in Launceston, offering hiking trails, the world's longest single-span chairlift and a riverside swimming pool.

You'll also find a fantastic suspension bridge and scenic hiking trails that take you from the heart of the city into the untouched Tasmanian wilderness.

Cataract Gorge can be reached on foot from the city in about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively there is a large car park if you wish to drive, or even a free bus from the city.
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Ultimate Tasmanian travel resource

I hope you enjoy this blog post. For more Tasmania travel and adventure inspiration, don’t miss my ultimate guides below.

– 62 Epic Things to Do in Tasmania – Where to Stay in Tasmania (Best Places) – 26 Amazing Waterfalls in Tasmania – 35 Must-Do Hikes in Tasmania

2. Check out Old Mac’s Farm (or stay there).

Old Macs Farm is a unique, private caravan and motorhome park located just minutes from Launceston CBD! While this Launceston activity may be better suited to those exploring the state in a van or motorhome, the farm is open to anyone who wants to stop by.

Old Macs offers a variety of activities great for families, including petting animals, dining, and a scenic lake.
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3. Enjoy a scenic Cataract Gorge Cruise

Are you in Launceston and looking for things to do? Don't pass up a Cataract Gorge cruise! This is one of the top rated attractions in Launceston and costs less than $35!

Cruises depart from the ferry terminal and all include guided commentary as you cruise past some of Launceston's most historic and famous sites. The cheapest cruise lasts approximately 50 minutes. However, you can also book a 2.5-hour cruise, which also includes afternoon tea and a beer and wine tasting.

Book online at the best price: 50-minute Cataract Gorge Cruise

Book the best price online: 2.5-hour Cataract Gorge Cruise

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4. Explore the wetlands of Tamar Island

North of Launceston lies the wild and beautiful Tamar Island Wetlands Area. This is an estuarine wetland ecosystem rich in native Tasmanian plant and animal life.

There are hiking trails, boardwalks and scenic footbridges over the Kanamaluka/Tamar River where nature lovers can observe diverse birdlife and scenic viewpoints. If you're up for a bit of nature, I highly recommend heading to the Tamar Island Wetlands when planning your things to do in Launceston, especially if you're traveling with kids!
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5. Take a day trip to Cradle Mountain

This one is for those of you who have come to Launceston for a quick visit. Did you know that you can reach Cradle Mountain, arguably Tasmania's most popular natural attraction, on a day trip from the city?

There are several organized trips that depart from Launceston to Cradle Mountain. Most stop at the visitor center and take you on some of the best day hikes in the park. The one I recommend below is a full day tour of around 10 hours. It is also the highest rated in Launceston and includes:

• Mittagessen
• Abholung/Rückgabe vom Hotel
• Eintrittspreis
• Wasser und Snacks
• Mittagessen
• Rundgang um den Dove Lake
• Ein Besuch in der Waldheimhütte
• Der Weindorfer Waldspaziergang

Book the cheapest and best-rated: Cradle Mountain day tour from Launceston
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6. Relax at Lilydale Falls

If you're looking for a quick trip to the waterfalls, then Lilydale Falls is one of the closest you'll find near Launceston. This fantastic little set of two waterfalls is just 25 minutes from town.

The route to Lilydale Falls is very easy and is paved the entire way. The great thing about this place is that you can even camp overnight at the trailhead. There is a cleared, designated parking area which is a popular spot for caravanners and van travelers.

Read more: Lilydale Falls – waterfall and free camping guide
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RELATED POST: 26 Incredible Waterfalls in Tasmania

7. Check out Josef Chromy Winery

Would it be a trip to Launceston without ordering an iconic Tasmanian Pinot Noir? One of the best wineries in the region is known as Weingut Josef Chrome.

This special winery produces great wines and is one of Australia's most picturesque wineries. They offer a comprehensive 2.5 hour guided wine tour package that includes:

• Ergänzende Weinprobe
• Ein Zwei-Gänge-Mittagessen
• Führung durch das Anwesen
• Eine Tour hinter die Kulissen, um zu sehen, wie der Wein hergestellt wird

However, if you'd rather visit more wineries, consider this tour of the Tamar Valley wine region, which includes tastings at four wineries and lunch.

Secure your spot and book in advance: Josef Chromy Winery Tour
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8. Stock up on adventure gear

Everyone knows that Tasmania is one of the best outdoor adventure destinations in Australia. If you don't yet have the boots or equipment to do some world-famous hikes like the Three Capes Walk or the Overland, you can stock up in Launceston.

Launceston has several great outdoor shops, all within walking distance of each other on York Street in the CBD. I recommend looking for quality gear at Aspire, Paddy Pallin or Find Your Feet.
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9. Go zip lining at Hollybank Wilderness Adventures

Hollybank Wilderness Adventures is Launceston's very own adventure park. Located just 20 minutes from the Underwood CBD, Hollybank offers epic treetop adventures including ziplining, mountain biking, treeline and even Segway tours.

The park is located on the Piper River in a picturesque forest setting. By far the most popular activity is the zipline course, which is one of the longest ziplines in Australia with a total length of 400 meters. The great thing about this particular tour is that it is limited to 12 people so customers can have this experience in small groups.

Adventurers looking for things to do in Launceston can book a great deal on the zip line tours using the link below.

Book a deal online: Zip Lining Tour at Hollybank Adventures
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10. Take a bike ride with beer and food

Name a better way to see the beautiful city of Launceston than a beer and food tour on two wheels.

Personally, I am a big fan of bike tours. They are always entertaining, informative and a great way to learn about a city's culture and history. The famous Launceston cycle tour is popular with foodies. The price includes a guide, bike, lunch and free beer.

Check Price: Bike Tour: Beer and Food
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11. Visit the Bay of Fires & WineGlass Bay

Okay, the Bay of Fires and the famous Wineglass Bay aren't exactly within walking distance of Launceston. However, these two places on the east coast are the ones that I think every visitor to Tasmania should experience at least once.

If you have your own car, I recommend setting aside at least a day to explore the region. Otherwise, there is a tour that does its best to get the most out of Freycinet National Park in a single day. It starts in Launceston and ends in Hobart. This is perfect and an inexpensive way to see the coast if you're planning on going to the capital anyway!

Book Launceston to Hobart via Freycinet: Full Day Tour

Read more: Must-dos in Freycinet National Park
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RELATED POST: The free, comprehensive travel guide to Hobart

Where to stay in Launceston

That concludes this short guide to the best things to do in Launceston, Tasmania. If you are still in the planning phase of your trip. Be sure to check out some of the accommodation options below. I have selected these hotels and accommodations as the best options for different budgets.

Pepper silo

Peppers Silo is one of the best luxury options in Launceston. This historic riverfront building has been redesigned with modern interiors that accommodate travelers looking for a luxurious experience. The hotel is conveniently located near many attractions including the Victoria Museum and James Boag Brewery.

Check price and availability for your dates at Peppers Silo
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Hotel Rand

The Hotel Verge is a conveniently located hotel in the heart of Launceston. In terms of location, this one is spot on. You also get access to a restaurant, free parking (a big plus in Lonnie), a fitness center, and even a garden.

The accommodation is 5-stay, but you don't pay 5-star prices. This is my top choice for hotels in Launceston.

Check price and availability at Hotel Verand

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POD Inn

Capsule hostels are more popular than ever. For those on a budget and looking for a cheap, convenient and comfortable stay in Launceston, consider the Pod Inn.

I've stayed in a few of these capsules and always find I get a fantastic night's sleep. The Pod Inn's location is also great, making it a perfect choice for backpackers or short visitors to Tasmania's second largest city!

Check price and availability for your dates at Pod Inn Launceston
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More must-see destinations in Tasmania

I hope you enjoyed this short activity guide that summarizes some of the best things to do in Launceston, Tasmania. If you enjoyed this guide, be sure to check out some of my other articles. I have spent several months photographing and documenting the best trips for Tasmania to make your trip as memorable as possible.

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