Hobart has been crowned the best city in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific!
With the best sights, landmarks, food and friendly people, Travel + Leisure magazine readers placed Hobart as the #1 city to visit.
Acting Hobart Lord Mayor Helen Burnet said the recognition from such a respected travel publication is a “great accolade” for city.
“It is a massive achievement and testament to just how far Hobart has come in developing experiences, attractions and events that are unique, distinct and genuinely world class,” Cr Burnet said.
“Hobart is home to the most visited tourism attraction in the state, Salamanca Market, which saw over 450,000 visitors between April 2022 and March 2023.”
“Kunanyi/Mt Wellington is the second most popular tourist attraction, and the most popular natural attraction.”
An estimated 390,000 visitors a year, excluding locals, visit the mountain with around 65% of visitors coming from interstate or international destinations.
City Economy Portfolio Chair Alderman Louise Bloomfield said Hobart well and truly has what the rest of the world wants.
“Ever since 2015, when Lonely Planet rated Tasmania as one of the top ten destinations in the world, tourist numbers have boomed on the island,” Cr Bloomfield said.
“Hobart is at the centre of what makes Tasmania special and is a thriving home for the best that our island has to offer. It is no wonder we have been recognised.”
A quick hour-long flight from Melbourne, the magazine say the city offers an experience all its own.
“A typical day for travelers might look like a morning swim at a beach just outside of the city, coffee at a locally owned cafe in the center, an afternoon hike on a nearby mountain trail, and back to town for oysters and wine on the waterfront.”
“For a city with a population of just over 200,000, there’s a lot to see and do.”
Queenstown and Wellington NZ also made the list, alongside Sydney and Melbourne.
