Tasmania’s three biggest cities - Hobart, Launceston and Devonport - are all popular bases for exploring the island state on day tours. Public buses connect to nearby towns and attractions, helping you explore Tasmania without a car. Read on to discover some of the top day trip destinations from Hobart, Launceston and Devonport using public buses. 

 Best day tours from Hobart

 Tasmania’s charming capital, Hobart, serves as an excellent launching point for day tours that showcase the natural beauty and historic sites of the surrounding region. 

 One popular destination is Dodges Ferry, a quaint coastal town situated just a short drive southeast of the city that can easily be accessed by public transport. It’s a favourite amongst surfers but is equally ideal for a leisurely beach stroll. Dodges Ferry lies en route to Port Arthur, famed for its UNESCO-listed convict settlement, and the dramatic coastal landscapes of the Tasman Peninsula. 

 A short bus ride up the Derwent River will take you to the historic town of New Norfolk, with its well-preserved colonial architecture and antique stores. Nestled in the Coal River Valley is the town of Richmond, which provides a window into Tasmania's convict past. It’s notable for its beautifully restored Georgian buildings and is home to the oldest bridge in Australia.

 No trip to Hobart is complete without a journey to the Huon Valley, an idyllic fruit-growing region renowned for its scenic orchards, vineyards and charming riverside towns. There are spectacular views of Mount Wellington en route, whether you’re heading to Huonville, Franklin or Cygnet. 

Kinetic operates buses travelling between Hobart, Sorell and Dodges Ferry, and has services from Hobart through the Derwent Valley to New Norfolk. In southern Tasmania, Tassie Link operates bus from Hobart to the Tasman Peninsula, as well as to Richmond/Campania and the Huon Valley. 

Best day tours from Launceston 

 Set on the banks of the Tamar River, Launceston provides an ideal base for exploring Tasmania’s north on a diverse array of day tours. 

 One of the most captivating day trip destinations from Launceston is the charming village of Evandale, a short 20-minute drive from the city centre. Evandale's well-preserved colonial architecture transports visitors back in time, with Georgian-style buildings and enchanting cafes lining its picturesque streets.

 Another popular day trip from Launceston is to the nearby town of Longford, renowned for its grand country estates and connections to the state's equestrian heritage. Here, you can tour the elegant homesteads of Woolmers and Brickendon or discover the area’s motor racing past at the Longford Circuit.

 The Tamar Valley wine region offers a delightful day of cellar-door tastings and vineyard exploration. You can meander through picturesque vineyards and sample the area’s award-winning cool-climate wines while indulging in gourmet local produce at the region's upmarket restaurants. And no trip to northern Tasmania would be complete without a visit to the Low Head Lighthouse, a historic landmark perched at the mouth of the Tamar River that offers sweeping views of Bass Strait.

 TassieLink operates a service that connects Launceston with Evandale, Perth and Longford.

Best day tours from Devonport

 As the arrival point of the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, Devonport is the first port of call for many visitors to the “Apple Isle”. It also serves as the perfect base for exploring the state’s northwest on a variety of day tours. 

 Among the most popular Devonport day trip destinations is the town of Sheffield, located just a short drive inland from the coast. Often referred to as the "Town of Murals," it’s home to over 60 striking murals, as well as a thriving community of artisans and craftspeople. For nature enthusiasts, the rugged beauty of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park is just a short drive away, providing ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. 

 Other popular day trip destinations from Devonport include Latrobe, a riverside town famed for its Belgian-style chocolate factory, and the “Town of Topiary”, Railton. In Penguin, you'll find a delightful seaside town with a crescent-shaped beach, a waterfront promenade and the opportunity to spot little penguins. Tasmania’s largest planetarium can be found at the Hive museum in the coastal town of Ulverstone.

 Kinetic operates services connecting Devonport with Latrobe, Ulverstone and Sheffield. Bus schedules and fare information can be found here.