A hire car gives you the freedom to tour Hobart and Tasmania your way
Nestled in the foothills of Mt Wellington, Hobart is a charming blend of history, scenery and culture. It sits at Tasmania’s southern end, on the edge of the River Derwent, and is the gateway to the rest of this island state. Secure car hire Hobart Downtown to explore it all.
Tasmania’s capital is surrounded by beaches and well-preserved bush, setting the scene for incredible outdoor activities. There are world-class attractions on offer and Hobart’s eateries serve tempting treats made with top-quality local and seasonal produce. Enjoy the fabulous coffee culture, and sample the region’s wines.
The sea separates Tasmania from the rest of Australia, but there’s plenty to see by rental car in the island state. So pick the rental vehicle that suits you, pack some essentials and hit the road to explore this fascinating place. You’ll never want to leave.
Start your trip on a high note with the right rental car. Airport Rentals is a global expert in car hire. Enter your details into the easy-to-use search engine to pull up a list of available vehicles and great specials. You’ll have the right car for you in no time, and the secure site makes it easy to book. If you need help, there’s a knowledgeable customer support team on hand round the clock to answer queries.
A guide to Hobart
Hobart is the second-oldest capital city in Australia, after Sydney, and the least populated at 225,000 residents. Named after Robert Hobart, the fourth Earl of Buckinghamshire, it began life as a penal colony in 1804 and is now a lively, popular city with an old-town feel.
Local attractions include the Cadbury factory, Port Arthur and the Huon Valley. Hobart is well-known as the finishing point of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and the Targa Tasmania rally car event every April.
The city has a pleasant, temperate climate, with warm summers and cool, wet winters. The surrounding mountains often see snow.
Hobart is serviced by a domestic airport, 17 kilometres northeast of the city. It is the primary passenger airport in Tasmania, and there are regular flights to Hobart from Melbourne Airport, Sydney Airport, and directly from Brisbane Airport.
● From Murray St, head southeast toward Bidencopes Lane.
● Turn left onto Macquarie St/A6 and continue straight onto Tasman Hwy/A3.
● Keep right to stay on Tasman Hwy/A3.
● At the roundabout, take the third exit onto Holyman Ave.
● Go straight through two roundabouts and follow the road left into the airport.
Car hire Hobart Downtown driving tips
● If you’re heading out a long trip, plan your fuel stops and remember some service stations are closed on Sundays.
● Cell phones may not work in some parts of Tasmania.
● Some roads, including highways, are winding so it’s not possible to drive at the speed limit. Plan your journey accordingly.
● It’s advisable not to drive at dusk and after dark, as animals are active at those times and can be on the road.<
Car hire Hobart Downtown parking
Hobart has more than 2000 short-term parking spaces.Short-term parking is available in three multi-storey car parks:
● Centrepoint Car Park (Victoria Street)
● Argyle St Car Park
● Hobart Central (Melville St)
The first 90 minutes are free from Monday-Saturday, as are the first three hours on Sunday. Trafalgar Car Park(Macquarie St) has AUD$6 all-day parking every Saturday from 7 am to 5.30 pm.
Choose from a wide range of accommodations in Hobart.
● Ramada Resort by Wyndham Seven Mile Beach - A short, picturesque drive from Hobart International Airport, this is an eco-friendly resort in a quiet, natural setting.
● Shoreline Hotel - This modern, award-winning hotel overlooks the beautiful Derwent River and is perfect if you want comfortable and affordable accommodation.
● Werndee - These central Hobart apartments and holiday units are self-contained, pet-friendly, and close to many popular attractions.
Annual events
Check out what events are happening in Hobart when you’re in town.
● The Royal Hobart Regatta - Tasmania’s oldest sporting event, this is a three-day sailing extravaganza held every February.
● The Taste of Tasmania festival (December/January) - The largest festival of its kind in Australia, this event showcases the finest cuisine Tasmania has to offer.
● Dark MOFO Festival (June) - This quirky event celebrates the dark side of life through large-scale public art, food, film, music, light and noise.
Hobart sights and activities
Explore the many attractions of Tasmania with your car hire Hobart Downtown.
● Mt Wellington - Drive to the summit of Mt Wellington for spectacular views of the city and harbour.
● Salamanca Market - Enjoy the food and entertainment of Salamanca Market every Saturday.
● Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery - Explore the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery or catch the river ferry to MONA for a modern art experience.
You’ll be amazed at how much this charming island state has to offer. Head off in your car hire and see for yourself.
