Even if you did not bring your own vehicle to Tasmania, there are numerous transportation options available to you.
Public Transport
The public bus system is operated by Metro Tasmania and serves the Hobart and Launceston metropolitan areas. Fares range from A$1.20 for a single student ticket to A$4.40 for a "day rover". Buses operate from early morning (around 6 am) until late evening (around midnight). Frequency depends on route and time of day, but for non-peak times, every half-hour is a rough indicator.
Metro also operates in Burnie and Devonport, and although the coverage is less extensive, it is possible to reach some coastal towns such as Wynyard. Metro sometimes offers tourist-oriented seasonal services to places like Richmond and Mt. Wellington.
Inter-city coaches
Coaches run between all major cities and towns, and to tourist areas such as Cradle Mountain. Touring passes are available. The more popular routes (e.g. Hobart-Launceston) may be operated around 3-4 times per day; less popular routes may only see service several days per week. The largest coach operator is Redline Coaches.
Car rental
Possibly the best way to get around Tasmania is to hire a car. Rental rates are about the same as for other areas of Australia: say around A$40 per day for a sm all car. Several global companies (Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Thrifty) have offices in Tasmania and reservations can be made via the Internet. Local car rental companies include Advance, Airport, Bargain, Lo-cost, Rent-for-less, and Selective.
For information on road quality etc., see the What is it like to drive in Tasmania question.
Self-propelled
Riding a bicycle around Tasmania is popular and can be an excellent idea during the warmer months. However, Tasmania's terrain is definitely not flat, so a reasonable fitness level is recommended before you attempt this.
If you plan to see a lot of the state and have the funds, a car is definitely a good way to go. On the other hand, if your primary purpose in coming to the state is to go bushwalking in some of the great national parks, you mightn't get the use out of a rental car and can save your money by using coaches.
[Back to Visiting Tasmania questions]
Last reviewed 2006-08-06 12:44:23