Transport around Tassie

Plan your route and find ways to get around

How to Explore Tasmania’s Pourers

Tasmania’s craft beverage producers are spread across vibrant cities, historic towns, and stunning rural areas. Because of our unique geography, planning your journey is key to having a good time. Depending on the region you are exploring, visitors can travel by car, public bus, curated tour operators, rideshare, or even cycling routes. Whether you prefer a fully guided experience or a self-paced road trip, there is a perfect way to navigate the trail.

Transportation Options

Self‑Drive

By far the most flexible way to get around Tassie is owning or renting a car. Either have one as a local, bring one down on the spirit, or rent. Many producers that are not in the immediate vecinity of Hobart or Launceston can be really difficult to reach with public transport. The main downside if that if you plan on drinking, you need a designated driver. Tasmania has some awesome scenic routes so this is also a great way to soak in the vibes at your own pace. You've probably noticied the background photos on the site are all taken in Tasmanian environments.

Hiring a car is pretty easy, and both Hobart and Launceston airport have options available there, along with in the CBD. Check out rental agencies such as Hertz, Budget Australia and CarHire.com.  

Tip: Always plan ahead — some rural roads have limited signage and patchy reception.

Public Transport

Metro buses run frequently within Hobart and Launceston and are currently free. While many rural producers aren't directly accessible by bus, you can easily combine a bus trip with a short taxi ride. There are rural buses, but the stops are infrequent.

Outside of the main cities, public transport can make it quite difficult to hit the more rural distilleries. You'll also likely run into the classic Tasmania Metro headache of rocking up early to a stop only to find the bus has already left. Either that or it can be significantly delayed.

Check out the Metro Tasmania website here for timetables, routes and planners: Bus transport - Hobart, Launceston, Burnie - Metro Tasmania

Tip: Check Metro schedules in advance as services can be less frequent on weekends.

Tours & Shuttles

Leave the driving to the experts is a great option if you plan on hitting a few places at once. Local tour companies offer curated brewery, distillery, and winery circuits with local knowledge and behind-the-scenes access.

There are a ton of different experiences on offer from a range of businesses across Tas.

Note: Partner listings and curated shuttle schedules will be coming to this section soon!

Rideshare & Taxi

Rideshares and taxis are readily available in major towns and cities. However, coverage becomes very limited or non-existent in rural and wilderness areas. They can also be quite costly, as distances between different produces can vary widely. Still, it makes for a good option if you don't have to go far and only want to visit one or two places at a time.

Currently, the best rideshare option in Tasmania is Uber. Taxis are also very easy to catch. The other services haven't quite taken off yet.

Tip: Pre-book your return trip if you are visiting rural producers on weekends.

Interactive Trail Map

Visualise your route and locate every brewery, distillery, and winery across the island.

Interactive Map Coming Soon

Final tips

Check Opening Hours

Many boutique and family-run producers have seasonal or limited opening hours. Always check their listings or website before setting off.

Book Tastings Ahead

During peak travel seasons, tasting rooms can fill up quickly. Pre-booking your tastings ensures you get a spot and a personalized experience.

Plan Designated Drivers

If you are choosing to self-drive, always nominate a designated driver in advance. Tasmania has strict drink-driving laws, and safety is paramount.

Download Offline Maps

Mobile reception can be patchy or non-existent in rural and wilderness areas. Download your maps offline before leaving major towns.

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