Island road trip
Tasmania road-trip car rental
Tasmania is made for a road trip - compact, wildly scenic, and easy to loop in a week. Rent a car in Hobart and circle the island's wilderness, historic towns and coastline at your own pace.
The drive
- A full island loop from Hobart is roughly 1,200–1,400 km - very doable over 5 to 7 days, with short daily drives between very different landscapes.
- Roads are sealed and quiet but often winding through hills and forest, so distances take longer than the map suggests - plan relaxed days, not big ones.
- Pick up (and return) in Hobart for a simple loop. The car and Tasmania stay on the island - our cars aren't taken across to the mainland.
Highlights along the way
- Freycinet and Wineglass Bay - the east coast's signature beaches and granite peaks.
- Cradle Mountain - the alpine heart of the island, a few hours north-west of Hobart.
- Port Arthur - the convict-era historic site on the Tasman Peninsula, close to Hobart.
- Launceston and the Tamar Valley - the north's city, gorge and wine country.
The practical bits
- Car choice: a mid-size automatic or small SUV suits the hills and longer distances; all the main roads are sealed, so a 4WD isn't required.
- Island-only: the rental stays in Tasmania - cars can't be driven onto the Spirit of Tasmania ferry to the mainland.
- Roads: sealed but winding, with wildlife about at dawn and dusk - drive to the conditions and avoid dusk drives where you can.
- When to go: summer (Dec–Feb) is warm, long-dayed and busy - book the car early; autumn is crisp and beautiful, winter is cold but quiet.
Common questions
How long do you need for a Tasmania road trip?
Five to seven days loops the island comfortably from Hobart - roughly 1,200–1,400 km with short, scenic daily drives. Ten days lets you slow right down.
Do I need a 4WD to drive around Tasmania?
No - the main touring roads are sealed, so a comfortable mid-size car or small SUV is fine. A 4WD only matters for remote gravel tracks.
Can I take a Tasmanian rental car to the mainland?
No. The car stays on the island - rentals can't be driven onto the Spirit of Tasmania ferry. For the mainland, rent separately at your arrival city.
Where's the best place to rent a car in Tasmania?
Hobart is the usual start and end of an island loop. Set Hobart as pickup and return when you search.
Keep reading
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