Launceston

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
Launceton, Tasmania, Australia.
User: (WT-shared) Plug at wts wikivoyage, Wikimedia Commons

Launceston, Tasmania's second-largest city, offers a unique blend of historic architecture, vibrant food culture, and direct access to stunning natural landscapes. It is recognized for its gastronomy and serves as a gateway to the Tamar Valley wine region and various outdoor activities.

Opportunities to socialise include the lively Harvest Market on Saturday mornings, where visitors can engage with local producers and enjoy the community atmosphere. The city's cafes and restaurants also provide vibrant settings, and some accommodations, like Launceston Backpackers, offer shared lounges and gardens for meeting other travellers.

Top 6 Things to do in Launceston

Launceston offers a diverse range of activities, from exploring natural wonders and historical sites to indulging in culinary experiences and engaging with local wildlife.

1. Cataract Gorge Reserve

Just a short distance from the city centre, Cataract Gorge Reserve is a unique natural formation. Visitors can explore walking tracks, take a dip in the swimming pool (seasonal), or ride the world's longest single-span chairlift for panoramic views. The reserve also features a Victorian garden, peacocks, and the historic Duck Reach Power Station, now an interpretation centre, accessible via a longer walk. It is suitable for a few hours or a full day of exploration.

Cost: Entry to the reserve is free. The Gorge Scenic Chairlift has a separate ticket fee, though specific recent prices are not provided.

Transport: The Gorge is approximately a 15-minute walk from the city centre along the banks of the Tamar River. A free Tiger Bus service is also available, providing easy access to the main entrance on Basin Road.

2. Tamar Valley Wine Region Tour

The Tamar Valley, situated north of Launceston, is a premier cool-climate wine-producing region known for its Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Chardonnay. Exploring the numerous boutique cellar doors allows visitors to sample award-winning wines and often enjoy picturesque vineyard views. Many tours include commentary from wine experts and opportunities to meet winemakers.

Cost: Tour prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. Half-day tours, often including a cheese platter, start from approximately A$145. Full-day tours with lunch typically range from A$185 to A$225 per person. Self-driving allows for visiting vineyards at one's own pace, with tasting fees varying per cellar door.

Transport: Most guided tours offer pick-up and drop-off from Launceston accommodation. For self-driving, the Tamar Valley is easily accessible by car, about a 15-minute drive from Launceston, with vineyards dotted along the Tamar River.

3. Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG)

As Australia's largest regional museum, QVMAG offers an immersive journey through Tasmanian history, art, and natural sciences. It operates across two sites: the Museum at Inveresk, housing history and natural science collections, and the Art Gallery at Royal Park, featuring visual arts and design. Both locations provide engaging exhibits, including insights into Aboriginal stories, colonial settlement, and Tasmania's unique flora and fauna.

Cost: General admission to both QVMAG sites is free. Separate fees apply for the Launceston Planetarium at the Inveresk site and for certain guided tours or special events.

Transport: The Art Gallery at Royal Park is centrally located and walkable. The Museum at Inveresk is a short distance further. A free Tiger Bus service provides convenient access to both the Museum, Art Gallery, and other city attractions.

4. Harvest Market Launceston

Every Saturday morning, the Harvest Market transforms a city car park into a lively marketplace. It is a hub for northern Tasmania's finest fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local goods. This market offers a vibrant community atmosphere, allowing visitors to engage with local producers and sample regional flavours, reflecting Launceston's status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

Cost: Entry to the Harvest Market is free. Costs apply for purchases from individual stallholders.

Transport: The market is held at 71 Cimitiere Street, Launceston, and is centrally located, making it easily accessible by walking from most city accommodations.

5. Penny Royal Adventures

Penny Royal Adventures offers a blend of historical context and thrilling activities, appealing to families and those seeking soft adventure. Attractions include ziplines, rock climbing walls, a 'Dark Ride', a Brig Tamar Cruise, and historical experiences like gold panning and gemstone fossicking. The Cliff Walk, with its rope bridges, provides unique views.

Cost: Entry to the park area is free, but individual attractions are ticketed. Prices generally start from $5 for activities like the Barefoot Sensation, with most others around $10 or more. Multi-adventure passes are available for better value.

Transport: Penny Royal Adventures is located at 147 Paterson Street, Launceston. It is approximately 0.5 miles from Cataract Gorge, making it walkable from the city centre. Paid on-site parking is available.

6. Platypus House

Located a short drive from Launceston in Beauty Point, Platypus House provides a rare opportunity to observe elusive platypuses and echidnas up close. Guided tours offer insights into these unique egg-laying mammals, their behaviours, and their role in the ecosystem. It is an educational and interactive experience suitable for all ages.

Cost: Entry to Platypus House is by guided tour. As of recent information, adult tickets are approximately AUD 29.50, child tickets (4-16 years) AUD 14, and family tickets AUD 65. Booking in advance is recommended.

Transport: Platypus House is approximately a 40-45 minute scenic drive north of Launceston in Beauty Point. Ample parking is available on-site. While buses run from Launceston to Beauty Point, a taxi or local transport might be needed from the bus stop to reach the facility.

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