Launceston is a beautiful city, with great food, superb wine, tons of history and plenty of attractions. It would be impossible to fit everything into just a couple of days, so we’ve put together a helpful 48-hour itinerary of the best things to do in Launceston. Staying at Peppers Silo Hotel, you’ll find yourself close to all of the major Launceston attractions.
Day 1 – Morning: Launceston Markets and City Park Launceston
Rise and shine early and head to the Launceston Farmers Market, “Harvest Market Launceston”. Held each Saturday from 8:30am to 12:30pm, these popular markets come alive with vendors selling local produce, freshly cut flowers, baked goods and more. Grab a hot cup of coffee and browse the many goodies on offer.
Located adjacent to Albert Hall and just a couple of blocks away from the Launceston Farmers Market, City Park in Launceston is a peaceful place in the heart of the city, complete with playground, a Japanese Macaque monkey enclosure, the John Hart Conservatory, a duck pond and more. It’s also home of Festivale Launceston, an annual food, wine and music festival which takes place each February. Enjoy a picnic lunch and relax at this city sanctuary.
Credit: Chris Crerar
Day 1 – Afternoon: Cataract Gorge and James Boag’s Brewery
One of the top things to do in Tasmania, Cataract Gorge is just a 15 minute walk from Launceston city centre and is a must-do when visiting the area. Ride the scenic chairlift for spectacular views of the gorge, take the inclinator from the top entrance to the lawn below or cool off with a swim in the pool.
Afterwards, take a leisurely tour of James Boag’s Brewery learning about the history of the beer and the beer-making process followed by a delicious beer tasting.
Credit: Tourism Tasmania & Rob Burnett
Day 1 – Evening: Dinner in Launceston and UTAS Stadium visit
Grain of the Silos Restaurant is the ideal spot for a romantic dinner. With a paddock to plate philosophy, the dishes feature only the freshest seafood, meat and produce. Don’t forget to check out the extensive wine list!
After dinner, catch an AFL game at the UTAS Stadium, home of Hawthorn Football Club, or enjoy a summer cricket match.
Credit: Rob Burnett
Day 2 – Morning: Tamar Island Wetlands
After a hearty breakfast at Grain of the Silos Restaurant, venture just ten minutes out of the city to the Tamar Island Wetlands. Spot native birds and mammals and stroll through this important historical landmark.
Day 2 – Afternoon: Tamar Valley and Silo Day Spa
Follow the Tamar River outside of Launceston to the Tamar Valley. Spanning more than 50 kilometres, this stunning region is home to some of the best wineries in Tasmania, gourmet food, picture-perfect lavender fields and stunning scenery. Have lunch or a picnic in a vineyard, sample premium wines and frolic amongst the luscious lavender.
After a busy day of exploring the valley, head to Silo Day Spa at Peppers Silo Hotel for a pampering spa treatment. Take yourself on a sensory journey including a foot soak, massage, facial and glass of bubbly to top it all off!
Credit: Tourism Australia & Graham Freeman
Staying a little longer? Discover more things to do in Launceston.
There’s so much more to explore in Launceston! If you have a few more days, be sure to check out these top Launceston attractions:
The mountain of Ben Lomond in Ben Lomond National Park is the main skiing destination in Tasmania. Drive to the summit for breathtaking views, or take a hike to spot native animals and other wildlife.
George Town is just 40 minutes from Launceston, is the third-oldest settlement in Australia and has a rich maritime history. Take a self-guided walk, visit the Pilot Station Lighthouse and then head to Low Head Coastal Reserve to see the world's smallest penguins waddle-about.
The Tasmania Zoo is ideally located in the Tamar Valley and is home to over 100 exotic and native species. Get your photo taken with a Tasmanian devil, feed lions and tigers or dance with the dinosaurs at Jurassic Swamp.
Penny Royal, a historical rebuilt mill and now tourist attraction in the heart of Launceston, features rope bridges, zip lines, lagoon ghost tours and an area for panning for gold and gemstones.
Launceston Accommodation
Peppers Silo Hotel overlooks the Tamar River and is made up of four old silos which rise high above Launceston. Enjoy modern décor and an abundance of amenities at this iconic hotel.
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