Hobart to Port Arthur: Drive Times, Best Stops and How to Get There
The drive from Hobart to Port Arthur takes about 90 minutes without stops. The direct route covers around 91 kilometres, but most people travel via Richmond which adds another 15 to 20 kilometres and is worth it. The route passes through historic Richmond, follows the coastline through the Tasman Peninsula and arrives at one of Australia’s most significant convict-era sites. We have done this trip by car and on a tour, so we can help you figure out which option suits you best and what you should not miss along the way.
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Getting from Hobart to Port Arthur
While driving is a popular choice, there are other options available for reaching Port Arthur, including shuttles, tours and a public bus service. Let’s go over them and see which is best for you and your family or travelling companions.
Driving to Port Arthur
The most direct route from Hobart to Port Arthur is around 91 kilometres and takes about 90 minutes without stops. If you travel via Richmond as we recommend, add roughly another 15 to 20 kilometres to that.
The most common route to follow during this drive is via Richmond, Dunalley, and Eaglehawk Neck before reaching Port Arthur.
Along the way, you can stop at well-known sites like the historic town of Richmond to see the sandstone Richmond Bridge, completed in 1825 using convict labour and still considered Australia’s oldest stone arch bridge still in use. The town has retained over 50 historic buildings, most dating back to the Georgian era of the 1820s, which makes it worth a proper look around.
Richmond is only 25 minutes from Hobart, so it might feel a bit soon into your journey to stop but we think you should take a quick coffee break here. At least to check out the bridge.
Another must for us is to spend a bit of time in the Tasman National Park. At least add some of the remarkable geological formations of the area to your stops, including the Tessellated Pavement, Devil’s Kitchen, Tasman Arch and the Blowhole at Eaglehawk Neck.
Public Transport from Hobart to Port Arthur
The Tassielink public bus (Route 734) does run from Hobart to Port Arthur, but it is not a good option for most visitors. The service departs Hobart in the mid-afternoon and arrives after the Port Arthur Historic Site has closed. It is primarily a service for locals rather than tourists. Always check the current Tassielink timetable before travelling as times do change.
A much better option for those without a car is the Pennicott Wilderness Journeys shuttle. It departs Hobart at 7:45am, drops you at the site between 9:30am and 10:00am, and picks you up again at 4:45pm. Tickets are $120 for adults and $100 for children and include site entry. Pre-booking is essential
Organised Tours to Port Arthur from Hobart
If this feels a bit too difficult or you prefer a more structured trip, several tour companies offer guided tours from Hobart to Port Arthur. These one-day trips typically include transportation, admission to the Port Arthur Historic Site, and a knowledgeable guide to provide interesting insights about the area’s history.
Three tours to Port Arthur from Hobart that we recommend are:
Port Arthur Shuttle and Tasman Sights Tour with Tassie Tours
This basic shuttle trip is the economical option and includes a few stops along the way allowing you to see more of the Tasman’s Highlights
- A stop at Tasman Peninsula’s Eaglehawk Neck and Remarkable Cave
- A tasting at the Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry
- A visit to the Arthur Lavender Farm
Book this Port Arthur and Tasman sites tour
Convict Trail–Port Arthur Day Tour from Hobart
This small group tour (max 12 ppl) includes your entry to the Historic Site at Port Arthur along with a guided walking tour of the site. On the way to Port Arthur, you make several stops to allow you to see some of the region’s most spectacular natural features.
- Pirate’s Bay Look Out and Hippolyte Rock
- Tessellated Pavement
- Port Arthur Historic Site
- Tasman Bridge
- Tasman Arch /Blow Hole
- Devil’s Kitchen
- Remarkable Cave
Book this tour of the Convict Trail to Port Arthur
Exploring Port Arthur Historic Site
Port Arthur Historic Site covers 40 hectares and has over 30 buildings and ruins to explore. Your entry ticket is valid for two consecutive days, which makes staying overnight on the Tasman Peninsula well worth considering.
Entry for adults is $53, children $26 and concession $41. The site only accepts card payments, so come prepared. Buying tickets online before you arrive is recommended.
What is included with entry: Every entry ticket includes a harbour cruise, a self-guided audio experience and free site talks by guides throughout the day. The harbour cruise gives you a view of the site from the water, which is the same perspective convicts would have had arriving by boat.
Key buildings to visit: The Penitentiary once held over 480 convicts in cramped cells across three storeys. Walking through it gives a real sense of the scale of the operation here.
The Separate Prison is a different experience entirely. It was built for solitary confinement, designed to cause mental suffering rather than physical punishment. It is quiet inside in a way that feels deliberate even now.
The Church Ruins are surrounded by gardens and are one of the more photographed parts of the site. Both convicts and free settlers attended services here.
The Convict Water Supply system is easy to walk past without stopping, but worth your time. The convicts designed and built the whole thing themselves.
Additional Tours at Port Arthur
Additional tours The 45-minute Essentials Tour is the most accessible option and covers the key history of the site. The 90-minute Premium Tour goes deeper into the stories behind the buildings. Both cost extra on top of entry.
The Escape from Port Arthur Tour runs for one hour and focuses on convicts who attempted to flee. The Isle of the Dead Tour takes you off the harbour cruise for a 40-minute guided walk through the burial ground for over 1,000 convicts, soldiers and free settlers.
Ghost Tours run Wednesday to Saturday after the site closes. They are lantern-lit, last 90 minutes and are consistently the most talked-about experience at Port Arthur.
Accommodation Options
If you decide to extend your Port Arthur visit, it’s easy to find an accommodation option to suit your needs.
Port Arthur Site
Port Arthur Historic Site offers on-site accommodation, including a range of self-contained apartments and cottages for a comfortable stay. You can explore the surrounding landscape during your visit.
Surrounding areas
If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, there are several motels and guesthouses within easy reach of the historic site.
We stayed at Abs By the Bay at Taranna, which is about 15 minutes from the historic site. It was a good base for exploring the region and had a lovely view over Norfolk Bay.
Check out your accommodation choices near Port Arthur
Towns en-route
For a more diverse range of accommodation options, consider staying in one of the nearby towns along the way from Hobart to Port Arthur.
Richmond
The picturesque town of Richmond offers an array of charming bed and breakfasts, inns, and hotels. Here, you can also visit historic sites such as the Richmond Bridge, Australia’s oldest stone arch bridge.
Eaglehawk Neck
An interesting section of coast between Dunalley and Port Arthur boasts stunning landscapes and is home to a tremendous variety of accommodations, from holiday homes to motels and caravan parks.
Staying at Eaglehawk Neck allows you to explore nearby natural attractions such as the Tessellated Pavement, a naturally formed pavement of rock, and the impressive views along the coastline.
No matter which accommodation option you choose, ensure that it meets your requirements and preferences for a comfortable stay during your trip from Hobart to Port Arthur.
Local Activities and Attractions
Port Arthur Historic sight might be the drawcard, but there are plenty of other things to do in this region. This is why we think an overnight (or longer) stay is worth it if you have the time.
Tasman National Park
Tasman National Park is worth at least half a day if you have the time. As you explore the park, you’ll come across stunning lookouts, challenging hiking trails, and fascinating wildlife.
To experience the park’s geological beauty, make sure to visit the rugged, sea-carved cliffs of Devil’s Kitchen. For a less demanding walk, the trail to Waterfall Bay follows the clifftops and gives you good views back along the coast.
A visit to Tasman National Park is incomplete without spotting local native wildlife, so keep an eye out for the unique species that inhabit the area. These include wallabies, wombats, Tasmanian devils, potoroos, possums and bandicoots on land, while offshore you have a good chance of spotting Australian fur seals, little penguins, dolphins and whales. Birdwatchers should look out for wedge-tailed eagles and white-bellied sea eagles overhead. Most wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk, so take extra care on the roads during those times, particularly on the peninsula roads.
Tessellated Pavement at Eaglehawk Neck
Another must-see attraction on your journey from Hobart to Port Arthur is the Tessellated Pavement. Found near Eaglehawk Neck on the Tasman Peninsula, this geological wonder comprises a series of rectangular saltwater pools formed by natural erosion. The unique patterns make the Tessellated Pavement a popular spot for photographers.
The best time to see the Tessellated Pavement is during low tide. On our last visit, we decided to stay overnight nearby so we could do a sunrise walk here and capture some photographs.
Food and Dining Options in and around Port Arthur
There are some good food stops between Hobart and Port Arthur if you know where to look.
If you decide not to travel via the historic town of Richmond add Barilla Bay Oyster Farm, a popular spot known for its fresh seafood, to your list
We also recommend a quick stop at one of the many fruit farms for some fresh and tasty local fruits.
As you continue along the east coast of the Tasman Peninsula, consider a wine tasting experience. The East Coast wine region is located conveniently on Hobart to Port Arthur Drive. Many wineries collaborate with local shops and restaurants to offer you the best wine tasting opportunities.
Once you reach the town of Dunalley, there are even more seafood options. This part of Tassy is particularly well known for its fish and chips. Try the Cannery Dunalley for lunch.
At Port Arthur itself, the Lavender Farm café is worth a stop for a coffee and something to eat before or after the historic site.
When is the best time to visit Port Arthur & the Tasman Peninsula?
Port Arthur is a year-round destination, so you can plan your trip any time of the year. However, what you want to see and do here might influence your decision.
When is the best time to visit Port Arthur & the Tasman Peninsula?
Port Arthur is a year-round destination, so you can plan your trip any time of the year. However, what you want to see and do here might influence your decision.
Summer (December to February) Tasmania does not get particularly warm at any time of year, so summer visits are especially popular with mainlanders. Warmer weather and longer daylight hours make it the most popular time for hiking the Three Capes Track.
You can expect temperatures to range between 12°C and 22°C. Be prepared for more tourists and potentially higher prices if you visit in December and January, especially between Christmas and New Year when the yachties hit town for the Sydney to Hobart finish.
Autumn (March to May) Temperatures cool down come March, offering a comfortable climate with highs around 10°C to 20°C. The drive down is at its best in autumn when the foliage starts to turn. You will encounter fewer visitors in this season, allowing you to explore the historic site and the stops along the way at a more leisurely pace.
Winter (June to August) Temperatures ranging between 5°C and 12°C are normal. The historic site is still worth visiting in winter. Just pack layers and expect some rain.
Spring (September to November) Spring brings wildflowers across the peninsula and the walking tracks are at their best before the summer crowds arrive. Milder temperatures with averages between 8°C and 17°C are common. Book accommodation and activities in advance as the tourist season picks up quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the drive from Hobart to Port Arthur?
The most direct route from Hobart to Port Arthur is around 91 kilometres and takes approximately 90 minutes without stops. If you travel via Richmond, which we recommend, allow for around 110 kilometres in total. Either way, plan for a full day if you want to make the most of the stops along the way.
How much does it cost to visit Port Arthur Historic Site?
Adult entry is $53, children $26 and concession $41. Family ticket pricing is also available. Your ticket is valid for two consecutive days. The site only accepts card payments, so come prepared. Buying tickets online before you arrive is recommended, particularly during peak season.
What are the must-see stops between Hobart and Port Arthur?
There are several interesting stops between Hobart and Port Arthur, enough to make it worth your while taking your time. Some of the must-see spots include Richmond, Dunalley, Eaglehawk Neck, and the Tasman Peninsula for wine tasting. We also loved Tasmania’s Tessellated Pavement.
Is a day trip to Port Arthur from Hobart feasible?
Yes, a day trip to Port Arthur from Hobart is very manageable, as the drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes each way. Similar to say a day trip from Sydney to the Blue Mountains. Allowing a few hours to explore Port Arthur and the stops you might want to make along the way, you can plan for a full day of sightseeing and return to Hobart in the evening.
Are there any guided tours available from Hobart to Port Arthur?
You won’t have to look far to find a Port Arthur day tour. There are lots of options available to get you from Hobart to Port Arthur. These tours typically include transportation and a knowledgeable guide who will provide insight into the area’s history and attractions. There are also tours for those with specific interests.
What are the opening hours for the Port Arthur Historic Site?
The Port Arthur Site is open daily from 9am to 5pm. It is closed on Christmas Day. Check the official Port Arthur website before you visit as hours can vary during peak periods.
Does a ferry service operate between Hobart and Port Arthur?
There is no ferry service between Hobart and Port Arthur. Services that used to run on this route stopped years ago.
If you are looking for a boat experience, Pennicott Wilderness Journeys runs a full day tour that combines a bus from Hobart with a three-hour coastal cruise around the Tasman Peninsula, finishing at Port Arthur Historic Site. It departs Hobart at 7:30am. This is a tour product rather than a transport option, but it is a good way to see the coastline if you have the budget for it. If you simply need to get there without a car, the Pennicott shuttle or a guided day tour are your best options.
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