Best Launceston Tours & Holidays 2023/2024

Launceston is Tasmania’s second-largest city and the gateway to the Tamar Valley.

Surrounded by mountains and rolling hills, the Tamar River valley opens north to Bass Strait just 58 kilometres away. Historic streetscapes and century-old parks and gardens sit beside revitalised areas such as the Launceston Seaport with its restaurants and cafes. A boardwalk links the Seaport to Inveresk where you can visit one of Australia’s best regional galleries, the Queen Victoria Museum. Launceston is the perfect base for exploring the cool-climate vineyards of the Tamar Valley and national parks such as Narawntapu (known for wildlife spotting) and Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair.

Our Launceston tours

Tasmania's Tarkine & Cradle Mountain Explorer

5 Days From 1390

Discover the untamed beauty of north west Tasmania on a 5-day tour departing from...

View Trip

Trek the Cradle Mountain Overland Track

6 Days From 1312

Tackle one of Australia’s greatest treks, among some of its most incredible scenery, on...

View Trip

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Learn More

Highlights of Launceston

See the Design Centre of Tasmania

This museum focussing on contemporary wood design is regarded as one of the world’s best collections of contemporary woodwork and is a must for lovers of architecture. There are more than 80 works on permanent display here, all of them noteworthy in their own right. Many of these pieces are so impressive they have been shown around the world.

Explore the Cataract Gorge Reserve

The Gorge, as the locals call it, is a 15 minute walk from town and is home to spectacular scenery, walking trails, and peacocks. Whatever the weather, it's a beautiful spot to visit and a great place to hang out with the locals. Allow time to take a ride across the gorge on the longest single-span chairlift in the world for a great view of this pretty place.

Tour the James Boag Brewery

Learn how James Boag commenced his brewing tradition on the banks of the Esk River in 1881 on an entertaining tour which celebrates the Launceston’s local brew. This is the only place where James Boag beer is made and the brewery is state-of-the-art but also historic. At the end of the tour, you'll enjoy a guided tasting of three of James Boag’s tasty lagers and ales.

Stroll alongside the Tamar River

Pull on your walking shoes and take a stroll along the riverside boardwalk which skirts Royal Park and King’s Park and passes Ritchie’s Mill with its many galleries and restaurants. Any time is a nice time to do this walk but if you can make it here for sunrise or sunset or in the late afternoon when you can drop into one of the bars to enjoy a glass of Tasmania's famous wine, it's even better.

National Automobile Museum of Tasmania

This extensive collection of vehicles showcases the history, engineering and stylish designs of motoring’s bygone era. You don't need to be 'into cars' to appreciate this nostalgic collection and enjoy the history associated with these classic automobiles. It's also not just about cars so make sure you don’t miss the superb collection of historic motorcycles.

Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail

Join your group for a platter lunch and a tasting of the local brews at a cidery that is part of Tasmania’s Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail which showcases the region’s delicious produce. From delicate sparkling wines to rustic ciders packed with the zesty flavour of Tasmania's famous apples, this tasting trail is as delicious as it is beautiful.

Launceston tour reviews

Launceston FAQs

Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine to join an Intrepid trip in Launceston?

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises). However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Learn more about Intrepid's COVID-19 proof of vaccination policy

How to get to Launceston

Launceston Airport is located 16 kms south of Launceston’s CBD.

Learn more about travelling from Cradle Mountain to Launceston

Getting around in Launceston

A taxi, Uber or the local bus service will get you around Launceston although many bus routes don't operate in the evening or on Sundays which can make getting around tricky sometimes. A free Tiger Bus service operates around the central city area every 30 minutes or so.

When should I visit Launceston?

Any time is a good time to visit Launceston. Summer is peak tourist season with pleasantly warm weather and festivals to enjoy. March to May is also popular with plenty of sunshine and crisp evenings, while the winter months from June to August are ideal for snuggling up in front of the fire. Spring weather can be changeable but the lush green landscape filled with blooming trees and flowers makes this a lovely time to visit.

Learn about the weather in Launceston

What should I pack for Launceston?

Pretty much everything. Launceston is surrounded by hills and mountains which means the weather can be changeable, especially in the cooler months. Bring clothes you can layer plus a jumper or jacket, wet weather gear, sunscreen, a hat and a beanie. And don't be surprised if you end up wearing all these things on the same day.

What should I wear in Launceston?

Launceston is a fairly casual place although locals do tend to dress up if they are 'hitting the town' at night. Smart casual is the norm at restaurants in Launceston, aside from the signature 'date night' ones like Stillwater Restaurant where people tend to dress up more.

What is the internet access like in Launceston?

Launceston is one of Tasmania's major cities so there is good WiFi coverage in town and most of the surrounding area.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone in Launceston?

Launceston is one of Tasmania's major cities so there is good mobile phone coverage in town and most of the surrounding area.

Is Launceston accessible for people with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. However, we’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Learn more about Accessible Travel with Intrepid