Hobart sits on the estuary of the River Derwent in south-east Tasmania, with its skyline dominated by kunanyi / Mount Wellington and its waterfront shaped by one of the deepest natural harbours in the world. Much of the central waterfront is built on reclaimed land, and the city has a mild maritime climate.
For a visitor, the practical geography is simple: the city centre and waterfront hold the main sights, with the historic precincts of Battery Point and Salamanca Place just to the south, Sandy Bay further along the same shore, and the eastern suburbs across the river. This guide covers which areas to base yourself in, not individual places to book.
Best areas to stay in Hobart
1. City centre and waterfront
The central business district and the adjoining waterfront around Sullivans Cove put you within walking distance of the city's main drawcards, including Salamanca Market, the convict-era architecture and the ferry connections along the harbour. This is the most convenient base for first-time visitors who want to cover the sights on foot.
You will find the widest spread of accommodation types here, from budget rooms and backpacker hostels to serviced apartments and large waterfront hotels. Note that some central properties have no parking, so if you are driving, check this before booking.
2. Battery Point
Battery Point is a historic precinct just south of the city centre, close to the waterfront and within easy reach of Salamanca Place. It suits visitors who want a quieter, heritage setting while still being near the main sights.
Accommodation here leans towards boutique and self-contained options, including serviced apartments and small historic properties. It is a short trip from the central business district, so you can base here and still walk or take a quick ride to the waterfront.
3. Sandy Bay
Sandy Bay lies along Sandy Bay Road south of the centre, on the same side of the river as Battery Point and the waterfront. It suits travellers who want to be near the city but away from its busiest streets, and it works well for those staying longer or travelling with a car.
The area offers a mix of budget pub-style accommodation and mid-range motels, generally at lower rates than the centre. Buses run along Sandy Bay Road into the city, so you do not need to be right in the centre to reach the sights.
4. Sullivan's Cove and the piers
The Sullivan's Cove waterfront and the pier buildings sit at the heart of the harbour, alongside the central business district. This suits visitors who want river views and to be steps from the waterfront restaurants and the ferry terminals.
Accommodation here is mostly serviced apartments and larger hotels, including properties on the piers themselves with views over the River Derwent and the historic cove. It is the most central option for anyone whose priority is the waterfront.
5. Argyle Street and North Hobart
The Argyle Street area runs north from the city centre towards North Hobart, roughly two kilometres from the central business district. It suits visitors who want a quieter, more residential base with easy access to the city's restaurant strip.
You will find mid-range hotels and heritage-listed buildings converted to accommodation here, often with parking, which is useful if you are driving. It is a short bus or taxi ride from the waterfront and Salamanca.
6. Eastern shore
The eastern suburbs lie across the River Derwent, connected to the city by the Tasman Bridge. This suits visitors with a car who prefer space and views back towards kunanyi / Mount Wellington and the city.
Accommodation here is limited and mostly self-contained or short-term rental style. The trade-off is that you will need to cross the bridge for the main sights, so it is best if you are not relying on walking.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: dorm beds and private rooms in hostels and pub-style accommodation, mostly in the city centre, Sandy Bay and along Sandy Bay Road. Expect shared or basic facilities and, in the centre, limited or no parking.
- Mid-range: motels, serviced apartments and heritage-themed hotels, found in Sandy Bay, Battery Point, the waterfront and the Argyle Street area. Apartments typically include kitchens, and some properties have parking.
- Splurge: boutique and luxury hotels, including converted historic buildings and waterfront properties, concentrated around Battery Point, the waterfront and the city centre. Expect heritage architecture, views and higher rates.
Best area for a first visit
Base yourself in the city centre and waterfront for a first visit. It puts you within walking distance of Salamanca Market, the convict-era architecture and the harbour, and it has the widest choice of accommodation at every budget. You can reach Battery Point and Sandy Bay easily from here without committing to a quieter base.
Frequently asked questions
Which area is best if I want to walk to the main sights?
The city centre and waterfront. It is the most central base, within walking distance of the waterfront, Salamanca Market and the historic architecture, and it has the best transport links along the harbour.
Where should I stay if I am on a budget?
Look at the city centre, Sandy Bay and Sandy Bay Road. These areas have the budget hostels and pub-style accommodation, and Sandy Bay generally offers lower rates than the centre while still being on a bus route into town.
Do I need a car to stay outside the centre?
Not necessarily. Sandy Bay and the Argyle Street area are connected to the centre by bus, and Battery Point is close enough to walk or take a short ride. The eastern shore is the exception: it is across the Tasman Bridge, so it is best suited to visitors with a car.
Where can I stay near the waterfront with river views?
Sullivan's Cove and the piers, where serviced apartments and larger hotels look out over the River Derwent and the historic cove. Battery Point is also close to the waterfront and offers boutique and self-contained options.
Compare live prices for your dates with the booking tools on this page before you decide.