Map of Tasmania: Free Tourist Maps & Road Trip Planner

Anyone planning a trip to Tasmania quickly realizes the island is far bigger than it looks on a small map. With 68,401 km² of wilderness, coast, and quirky towns, a good map isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s the difference between a freewheeling adventure and a lot of missed turns. This guide brings together the best map resources, driving logistics, and seasonal timing so you can plan a trip that actually fits the terrain.

Area: 68,401 km² ·
Population: 570,000 (approx.) ·
National parks: 19 ·
Driving circuit length: 2,250 km ·
Ferry crossing time: 9–11 hours

Here are the quick facts every traveler should know before planning a Tasmania road trip.

Which is the most beautiful part of Tasmania?

Tasmania’s landscapes vary dramatically within short drives. The most celebrated spots appear on every tourist map of Tasmania, but knowing which suits your travel style helps narrow the choice.

Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park

The jagged peak of Cradle Mountain anchors a UNESCO World Heritage area. Over 200,000 visitors come each year to walk the Dove Lake Circuit. As the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service notes: “Cradle Mountain exemplifies the wild heart of Tasmania, with ancient rainforests, alpine heathlands, and glacial lakes all within a single park.”

Freycinet Peninsula and Wineglass Bay

Wineglass Bay consistently ranks among the world’s top ten beaches. The half-day walk to the lookout reveals a perfect arc of white sand. The bay sits within Freycinet National Park, home to dramatic coastal granite formations.

Bay of Fires and the east coast

Orange-hued granite boulders and pristine beaches stretch along the Bay of Fires. This area is a favourite for photographers and swimmers. The pattern: each region offers a distinct flavour, so a road trip that includes all three covers Tasmania’s greatest hits.

How long does it take to drive around Tasmania by car?

Driving the full circuit of Tasmania is roughly 2,250 km. Most travelers allow 10–14 days for a comfortable loop, according to the Turo AU car rental guide. A tighter 7-day itinerary is possible but leaves little time for hiking or detours.

Typical itinerary: 7–14 days

The Discover Tasmania “lap of the map” route comes in two versions: a 1,220 km core loop and a 1,909 km extended version including the west coast. Adding side trips to the Tarkine or Tasman Peninsula pushes the total higher.

Coastal vs. inland route comparison

The pattern: the full circuit rewards those with two weeks; the east coast delivers the best beauty-per-kilometre for shorter trips.

Road conditions and rental tips

Most main roads are sealed and suitable for 2WD vehicles. Some national park access roads are gravel. The Transport Tasmania site provides current condition reports. Turo recommends booking a car with unlimited kilometres if you plan to do the full circuit.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Tasmania?

Different travellers give different answers, but three sites dominate visitor numbers.

Cradle Mountain National Park

Over 200,000 visitors annually. The park’s alpine scenery and diverse wildlife, including wombats and Tasmanian devils, make it a must-see on any map of Tasmania.

Port Arthur Historic Site

The UNESCO-listed penal settlement on the Tasman Peninsula draws history enthusiasts. A guided tour and harbour cruise are included in admission.

MONA (Museum of Old and New Art)

MONA is Tasmania’s most-visited paid attraction. Located on the Derwent River in Hobart, its provocative contemporary art collection challenges conventions. The catch: art lovers and curious travellers alike rate it as the island’s most distinctive cultural experience.

“The Spirit of Tasmania runs nightly crossings between Melbourne and Devonport. Fares start around $120 one-way for a passenger and $100 extra for a standard vehicle, but prices vary by season.” – Spirit of Tasmania official website

How much does it cost to catch a ferry to Tasmania?

The Spirit of Tasmania is the only vehicle ferry connecting the mainland to the island. Costs depend on season, demand, and how early you book.

Spirit of Tasmania fare structure

Standard passenger fares range from AUD 120–250 one-way. Vehicle transport adds AUD 100–200, depending on vehicle length. The Spirit of Tasmania official site provides real-time pricing.

Vehicle and passenger pricing

A family of four with a car can expect to pay between AUD 500 and AUD 800 for a one-way crossing. Booking at least three months ahead can cut costs by up to 30%.

Booking tips for off-peak savings

Off-peak crossings (mid-week, outside school holidays) are cheaper. The ferry crossing time is 9–11 hours, so an overnight sailing saves accommodation costs. The implication: budgeting about $400–$700 per vehicle is realistic for a return trip.

What animal is only found in Tasmania?

Tasmania is famous for endemic species that evolved in isolation.

Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii)

The Tasmanian devil is the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial and is endemic to Tasmania. It appears on the state’s animal emblem. Conservation efforts, including Devil Ark, work to protect the species from facial tumour disease.

Eastern quoll

Once widespread on mainland Australia, the eastern quoll now survives only in Tasmania. Its spotted coat and nocturnal habits make it a rare sight.

Tasmanian bettong

A small kangaroo-like marsupial that forages for truffles. It is one of several endemic small mammals. The pattern: Tasmania is a living ark for species lost elsewhere – a unique selling point for wildlife-focused travellers.

“Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park is the jewel of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, with walks ranging from short strolls to multi-day treks.” – Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service

En detaljerad karta är särskilt användbar om du planerar att ta Spirit of Tasmania ferry från Geelong till Devonport, eftersom du då behöver navigera hela ön från norr till söder.

Frequently Asked Questions

For more travel inspiration, read our guide to Bruny Island Cruises 2026 or the What to Do in Adelaide: 3-Day Itinerary for ideas on extending your Australian road trip.