• Destinations

Launceston

Settled by Europeans in March 1806, Launceston is one of Australia's oldest cities and has many historical buildings and sights. It is the second largest city in Tasmania after the state capital Hobart.

Launceston is an elegantly laid-back city located in the northern parts of Tasmania where the three rivers of the state meet together and rush down to the open ocean waters.  Boasting a collection of beautiful 19th century buildings as well as modern marinas, gorgeous parks and breathtaking scenery, it presents contrasts not seen in many parts of Australia.  You seldom come across a city that offers grace and opulence in the one place. Accessible from anywhere is Australia, just 45 minutes by air from Melbourne and 95 minutes from Sydney, Launceston is one of those special places that you must experience for yourself.

With the cities streetscapes and parks, surrounding valleys and the beautiful Tamar River you can find an array of things to fill in your days in Launceston.  From guided walks, cruises and fun filled activities there is something for everyone! Or if you just want to kick back and soak up the peacefulness and serenity you can do so in one of the cafes or restaurants that line the streets of this well planned out city.

One of the best ways to see Launceston is to walk it, with a population of 98,000, its compact and easy to navigate. You can wander the streets and browse through the numerous stores, retail outlets and boutiques for yourself or join a guided walk.  You can choose from ghost tours and historic tours of the City, to 'Gorgeous Walks' in the famous Gorge Reserve just minutes from the City Centre. Along the way, you'll discover intriguing little shops tucked into arcades, and café dining spilling onto tree-lined streets and malls.

Or if you are chasing some action packed sporting event then catch an A-League Soccer or AFL game at Aurora Stadium York Park. Being Hawthorn Football Club’s second home, you can have the opportunity to see watch one of these exciting games take place.  Or you can wander through the City Park and see Australia’s only collection of contemporary wood design that showcases the design skills of its fine craftspeople together with the beauty of the state's natural timber resources.

The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery tells of a fascinating story of Tasmania's past and holds superb collections of Australian Colonial Art, Contemporary Craft & Design, and Tasmanian Natural Sciences for everyone to see or you can visit the Launceston Tramway Museum.

There are a number of interesting places to visit around Launceston such as Lilydale and the Lilydale Falls Reserve where you can find spectacular waterfalls and excellent camping facilities as well as interesting walks through the Ben Lomond National Park. South of Launceston is Evandale which hosts some fabulous old buildings, set amongst the beautiful South Esk Valley. However, for truly amazing architectural splendour head a little further south and you will get to the beautiful Clarendon Mansion. Launceston is an ideal base to explore the many natural and historic attractions of the Tamar Valley. A wine and food lover’s paradise, it's made for losing yourself - in exploration, romance and adventure, by land, air, river or sea.  Come and experience the beauty and wonder that makes up this gorgeous city, from its glorious parks and picnic area, luxury accommodation, amazing and awe-inspiring attractions to its fun filled activities that will keep you going for ages.  Launceston offers an array of things to keep everyone occupied, both in the city and in its surrounding regions.