Launceston Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Launceston, including a list of places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, local culture, and safety tips.


Introduction to Launceston

Launceston is a charming city located in Eastern Tasmania, Australia, and is widely known as the gateway to the Tamar Valley wine region. It’s a popular destination for travelers looking for outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and a taste of the local culture. Launceston is Australia’s third-oldest city, and its rich history is reflected in the many historic buildings and museums scattered throughout the city. With a population of just over 100,000, Launceston manages to retain a small-town feel while still offering a variety of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained.

List of Places to Visit in Launceston

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery: This museum features an impressive collection of art, artifacts, and scientific specimens from Tasmania and beyond.
  • Design Tasmania: This contemporary craft and design center showcases the work of local and national artisans and hosts regular exhibitions and events.
  • Launceston Tramway Museum: This museum houses a collection of vintage trams that were once used in Launceston, as well as historic photos and memorabilia.
  • Franklin House: A restored Georgian mansion that provides a glimpse into life during the colonial era in Tasmania.

Natural Attractions of Launceston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cataract Gorge Reserve: A beautiful natural reserve located just outside the city center, with hiking trails, a suspension bridge, and a chairlift offering stunning views of the gorge.
  • Tamar Island Wetlands: A birdwatching haven with a variety of walking trails and boardwalks winding through the wetlands.
  • Hollybank Treetops Adventure: An adventure park offering zipline tours and treetop walks through the forest canopy.
  • The Tamar Valley Wine Region: Scenic countryside dotted with vineyards and wineries, offering tastings and tours.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Launceston

  • The Trevallyn Nature Recreation Area: A popular area for hiking and mountain biking, with well-marked trails and stunning views of the Tamar River.
  • The South Esk River Trail: A flat, easy trail along the South Esk River, passing through parks, gardens, and historic sites.
  • Launceston to Tamar Island: A peaceful ride through scenic countryside, passing through wetlands and vineyards.

Best Things to Do in Launceston: Activities and Tours

  • Take a food and wine tour of the Tamar Valley.
  • Visit the Cataract Gorge Reserve and ride the chairlift for stunning views.
  • Go birdwatching at the Tamar Island Wetlands.
  • Experience the thrill of a treetop zipline tour at Hollybank Treetops Adventure.
  • Take a scenic drive through the Tamar Valley wine region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Launceston

Day Activity
1 Explore the city center and visit the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery
2 Take a wine and food tour of the Tamar Valley
3 Hike in the Cataract Gorge Reserve
4 Visit Hollybank Treetops Adventure
5 Take a scenic drive through the Tamar Valley wine region
6 Visit Franklin House and take a walk along the South Esk River Trail
7 Go birdwatching at the Tamar Island Wetlands

Food and Drink Scene of Launceston

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tasmanian seafood, including oysters, abalone, and crayfish.
  • Tasmanian lamb and beef, locally raised and grass-fed.
  • Cheese from local dairies, such as Ashgrove Cheese and Pyengana Dairy.
  • Tasmanian cherries and berries.

Local Beverages

  • Tasmanian wines, particularly those from the Tamar Valley.
  • Beer from local breweries such as James Boags and Moo Brew.
  • Tasmanian whisky, with several distilleries located in and around Launceston.

Where to Stay in Launceston: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Peppers Seaport Hotel: A waterfront hotel with modern amenities and stunning views.
  • The Art Hotel on York: A boutique hotel featuring art-inspired rooms in a central location.
  • Arthouse Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located in a historic building in the city center.
  • Ashton Gate Guesthouse: A cozy bed and breakfast with a beautiful garden, located near the Cataract Gorge Reserve.

What to Buy in Launceston: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Tasmanian honey, particularly leatherwood honey.
  • Handmade crafts and jewelry from local artisans.
  • Tasmanian wine, whisky, and beer.
  • Products made from Tasmanian Huon Pine.

Local Culture and Customs of Launceston

Launceston has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can immerse themselves in the local history and customs by visiting museums and historic sites. The Tamar Valley wine region is also a significant part of the local culture, and wine tastings and vineyard tours are popular activities. Tasmania, in general, has a more relaxed and laid-back culture than other parts of Australia, and visitors should expect a slower pace of life and friendly locals.

Best Time to Visit Launceston

The best time to visit Launceston is from November to April, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is low. The summer months are particularly pleasant, with warm and sunny days perfect for outdoor activities. However, visitors should be prepared for crowds during the peak summer season, particularly in popular tourist areas such as the Cataract Gorge Reserve and the Tamar Valley wine region.

Do’s and Don’ts of Launceston

Do:

  • Respect the local environment and wildlife.
  • Try the local food and drink, particularly the Tasmanian wine and cheese.
  • Take the time to visit the museums and historic sites to learn more about the local culture and history.

Don’t:

  • litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Overindulge in the local spirits, particularly the whisky.
  • Forget to bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Launceston

Launceston is generally a safe city, with low rates of crime. However, visitors should take the usual precautions to protect their valuables and be aware of their surroundings, particularly in crowded tourist areas.

Health in Launceston

Launceston has modern medical facilities and hospitals, and visitors can access medical care if needed. Visitors should be aware of the risks associated with outdoor activities, such as hiking and swimming, and take appropriate precautions such as wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated.

Getting to Launceston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Launceston

  • Launceston Airport: Located approximately 15 minutes from the city center, this airport offers direct flights to several major Australian cities.

Bus Stations Near Launceston

  • Tassielink Transit: This bus service connects Launceston to destinations throughout Tasmania.

Other Options

  • Driving: Launceston is easily accessible by car, with several major highways connecting it to other parts of Tasmania.
  • Rail: The Spirit of Tasmania ferry service connects Tasmania to the mainland, with rail connections available from Melbourne to Launceston.

How to Get Around in Launceston

Launceston City Council operates a network of public buses, with several routes connecting the city center to suburbs and outer areas. Alternatively, visitors can hire a car or bike to explore the city and its surroundings at their leisure.

Where to Go Next from Launceston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park: A stunning wilderness area featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and pristine forests, located approximately 2 hours from Launceston.
  • Freycinet National Park: A coastal park with beautiful beaches and scenic vistas, located approximately 2.5 hours from Launceston.
  • Bay of Fires: A beautiful stretch of coastline with white sand beaches and turquoise waters, located approximately 2.5 hours from Launceston.

Conclusion

Launceston is a beautiful and welcoming city with something to offer for every type of traveler. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and world-class food and drink scene, Launceston is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tasmania.

Launceston Launceston Cataract Gorge Cataract Gorge Boag's brewery in downtown Launceston Boag's brewery in downtown Launceston