Tasmania is a place of wild and beautiful landscapes, friendly people with a relaxed island lifestyle, wonderful food and wine, and a haunting history evoked by world-famous convict ruins. It's also Australia's smallest state and the most geographically diverse with over 40 per cent reserved as national parks and world heritage wilderness. No matter where you go, whether you spend time in one place or drive around the island, we know you'll be delighted by what you'll find and surprised at how much bigger Tasmania is on the inside. As Australia's only island state, access to Tasmania is by air and sea only.
Regular flights depart from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane and fly direct to Hobart and Launceston. Direct flights are also available from Melbourne to Wynyard (Burnie), Devonport, King and Flinders Island. Alternatively many visitors travel to Tasmania from Melbourne by sea on the Spirit of Tasmania. Departing from Melbourne and arriving in Devonport, this has the added benefit of letting you bring your own car and make the most of Tasmania's touring potential. With good roads, few freeway or motorways and scenic views wherever you go, getting around Tasmania is part of the fun.
Although Tasmania is a small state by Australian standards, it's actually the same size as Ireland, so don't underestimate the time it takes to get around. Even driving around the state will take several days, especially if you take the time to look around. There are no train services in Tasmania so travellers rely on bus and coach and of course car-hire to get to and from our cities and regional centres. Coach tours offer a comfortable and relaxing way of seeing the state with many national coach touring companies offering traditional coach touring around Tasmania. They provide extensive year round multi-day itineraries for budget, deluxe and luxury travellers. Specialised small escorted group touring is also available to cater for particular interests and the youth touring market.
