Head up to Northern Tasmania, and it’s unthinkable not to make a stop at the stunning city of Launceston - or ‘Launnie’ as it’s affectionately known by the locals. 

Dating back to its establishment in 1806, this is a vibrant cultural and gastronomic hub with a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and exquisite culinary options that is home to a tight-knit and diverse community, and constantly captivates all newcomers, time after time. 

A charming riverside city, you’ll find it at the centre where three beautiful waterways meet – the North Esk, South Esk, and kanamaluka/Tamar rivers – offering a unique canvas of lush landscapes, some of the best vineyards and wineries, and incredible ecosystems to discover, teeming with plant and animal life – not to mention the heritage architecture around.

The city's crown jewel, however, is the Cataract Gorge, which invites visitors to traverse its inspiring and scenic walking trails, verdant gardens, and thrilling chairlift rides, while its bustling downtown serves as a gateway to an array of cultural and historical treasures. 

As Australia’s third oldest city, Launceston proudly holds a legacy of cultural richness and excellence in food, wine and fresh produce; and these factors have earned it a prestigious title as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. It's not just any title. This accolade celebrates Launceston’s deep-rooted connections with local farmers, artisanal producers, and a dining scene that magnificently showcases all the goods that this gorgeous part of Tasmania has to offer. 

From the bustling Harvest Market to the acclaimed Tamar Valley wine route, Launceston is an enchanting destination. Heading here means embarking on a journey that ranges from setting your sights on scenic natural splendour, to exploring its historic streets, or enjoying the artistic exhibitions at the intriguing Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery... and any trip, of course, wouldn't be complete without savouring its farm-to-table fare at renown restaurants – in addition to a few lesser known hidden gems that only the locals know about.

Whatever strikes your fancy though, trust us –  this is an area of Tassie worth exploring, and we’ve got the top spots to try listed here that you won't want to miss while you're there. Plus, the best places to stay while you’re at it, of course.

Looking for a place where you can wine, dine and stay within gorgeous surroundings? Well, this is it. 

Award winning architecture and interior design practice Cumulus Studio has transformed a historic 1830s flour mill on the banks of Launceston’s Tamar River into a stunning timber-clad retreat above the celebrated Stillwater Restaurant. 

To give you an idea – this is an elegantly restored hotel which combines deep, aged timber with sleek, modern design to create a refined, comfortable and chic atmosphere; with a touch of history weaved in. The name kind of gives it away – but guests can choose from seven uniquely styled rooms, ranging from ‘premium’ to ‘deluxe’, and each offers tranquil river views, plush king-size beds, and luxurious walk-in showers, among other perks. 

The bespoke Simon Ancher-designed mini-bar/pantry adds an extra personalised touch, and authentic feel, with artisan snacks and wine included, so that guests can also sample local treats upon entry and throughout their stay. Additionally, a delicious continental breakfast is also served in-room daily, so that you can sip an expresso a morning bite, whilst watching the boats sail by from your window. 

Either way, Stillwater Launceston is one unique boutique haven blending rustic charm with contemporary comfort, and an ideal base for exploring Launceston and the Tamar Valley – all while celebrating Tasmania’s rich heritage and local craftsmanship.

Step into The Florance, and you’ll find a cosy oasis, where Victorian elegance meets modern charm, with stunning views of Launceston’s picturesque City Park as a plus.

This boutique gem, located in Launceston’s arts precinct, has been lovingly restored to celebrate its rich history while offering contemporary comforts, and each of the 12 uniquely styled rooms blends classic design with a fresh, botanical theme ensuring a delightful stay. 

Guests can enjoy a private ensuite, tea and coffee facilities, and complimentary Tasmanian shortbread, making you feel right at home from the get-go. 

The quaint hotel also comes with a light-filled conservatory, adorned with William Rhodes's artwork (a Glover and Archibald finalist), offering the perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or a relaxing moment – so there’s always time unwind and enjoy your surroundings, no matter how busy your schedule. 

With its close proximity to the CBD and a private carpark too, The Florance offers a serene and stylish haven, with convenience right in the heart of Launceston – so the perfect place to stay for your Tasmanian retreat.

Set against the backdrop of Launceston’s historic district of Hadspen, The Red Feather Inn offers an enchanting escape just 15 minutes from Launceston’s cultural treasures like the Tasmanian Copper & Metal Art Gallery. 

This elegant retreat, originally built in 1842 by convict labor, has been meticulously restored to blend classic Georgian charm and architecture with modern luxury. 

Guests are welcomed into beautifully appointed rooms on arrival and can enjoy stone fireplaces, garden views, and state-of-the-art amenities from each room with complimentary breakfasts available each morning. By day or on relaxed evenings, explore the serene gardens, or delve into local cuisine at the nearby restaurant. Alternatively, or as a plus – if you want to sharpen your culinary skills, there’s also a cool cooking school on-site – something you certainly don’t find at every hotel. 

With its tranquil setting and proximity to the city, The Red Feather Inn is the perfect haven for indulgence and exploration.

Either way, with its tranquil setting and proximity to the city – it’s centrally located 10 minutes from the heart of Launceston and 15 minutes from the airport – this is the place to getaway, while still being close enough to all the city comforts. 

Something to note though – as a peaceful retreat for adults, The Red Feather Inn doesn’t allow children under the age of 16. FYI.

Eat & Drink

Tasmania may be a small island at the southern tip of Australia, but its city of Launceston is one stop there turning heads for its top-class culinary standard, and incredible fresh produce. In fact, it’s earned it so much international recognition that the rest of the world has caught on, and it's become synonymous with delicious food & drink. 

Don’t be surprised if the residents like to boast about it too – and with good reason. These are the top-notch picks to check out on your trip, locally approved. 

Bread + Butter

Let’s just start with the basics. Bread + Butter is the place to begin your day, or drop in for a snack during the day whilst exploring this beautiful city. 

An unique blend of a small batch butter factory – Tasmanian Butter Company – combined with a wholesale and retail bakery, an onsite eatery, and a cute coffee bar; this is a cosy corner where you can really settle in, order a hot latte, and start your morning with a fresh, hot, flaky croissant – and a smile. 

Tatler Lane By Sweetbrew

Sweetbrew is an iconic Launceston cafe name, which has always had a focus on great specialty coffee, vegetarian food, as well a range of delicious cakes and pastries – but its latest outpost Tatler Lane by Sweetbrew is its latest hit. 

Head down into Launceston’s new dining precinct Tatler Arcade, and you’ll find this snug cafe space – a funky, multicultural spot and a favourite with locals, which features its own roastery; and where the art of coffee is celebrated with every bean. 

The aim here is to create a warm, relaxing atmosphere, and to educate the community about the entire coffee process – from the rich soil where the beans are nurtured, to the meticulous roasting techniques that bring out their full flavour.

This transforms your daily cup into a story of craftsmanship and passion, and it’s totally worth it. Open from 7am onwards, it's a great wake up call any way you look at it! 

P.S – The venue is open seven days a week as a cafe – but Wednesday to Sunday, if you venture down the laneway and around the back to the fire escape, you'll also find its cool, intimate bar, which serves everything from expertly crafted cocktails, to wine, or a bold spirit to unwind. Worth a look. 

Frankie's Coffee House

Ever tried pizza for breakfast? Well, for those who haven’t, this is the place; and for those who have, just trust us – try it again here, you won’t regret it. Specially made with fresh, local ingredients, and paired with a cup of flaming good coffee – it’s the perfect morning mix. 

This place is also a top Launnie favourite – and as soon as you set sight on it, you’ll understand why. Lighting up the city’s George Street with its bright yellow façade, Frankie's wakes you up from the get-go, and it’s always got a few trendy residents relaxing and unwinding in conversation outside with a cup of something, so you know it’s gonna be cool. 

Step in, and you’ll fall in love with its world of vintage Italian charm and hip, upbeat vibe; and since its also got traditional breakfast menu items on offer – including traditional sourdough loaves and a selection of French pastries from locally owned artisan bakery Manu Bread – it’s one cafe that stands out and will definitely win you over with one visit. 

Earthy Eats

Housed in what was once a derelict garage, this hidden gem on the eclectic Kingsway in Launceston is your ultimate destination for vibrant, wholesome, and plant-based fare. 

A community haven, Earthy Eats is widely known as the one of the city's freshest cafes, juice bar, and salad bar – all paired with locally roasted coffee that sets a new standard for your daily brew.

Providing access to seasonal, healthy and sustainable food choices, this is where you can indulge in an all-day brunch that celebrates local, seasonal ingredients – think pasture-raised free range eggs, ethically sourced meats, and yummy Tasmanian specialties. Whether you're vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a delicious, health-conscious bite, this is a menu crafted to cater to every dietary preference, and where you’re guaranteed to feel good post-meal.

Plus, if you were eager to cultivate your own garden – there are also a variety of take-home seeds here, so can just give it a try and get a garden with the Tassie stamp. 

Rupert & Hound

Bringing the area’s local, seasonable and sustainable produce together in a brilliant location on the banks of the North Esk River at Launceston's Seaport, Rupert & Hound offers indoor and outdoor dining in a chilled waterfront setting.

Striking a perfect balance between playful sophistication and refined elegance, the menu here is quite simply a celebration of the finest food Tasmania has to offer. You can enjoy a range of dishes, whether you’re in the mood for a decadent seafood platter, a hearty burger, or a crisp salad – but overall, this place excels in providing an invigorating take on modern seafood dining. This is due to the strong connections the culinary team here have with the sustainable fishermen of the city who harvest from the pristine waters around, and ensure that the R&H kitchen here has access to the freshest local catches – guaranteed, day after day.

Other than the delectable plates here though, the star of the show would have to be this spot’s funky bar that blends fun with finesse – highlighting locally-sourced spirits, beers, and wines, crafted with environmental mindfulness. Their cocktail menu is another seasonal journey, blending nostalgic inspirations with innovative creations that reinvent classic recipes into extraordinary new experiences.

In conjunction with Scottsdale’s Little Rivers Brewery, R&H also produces its own house beer – Hound Dog Lager & Rupert’s Raspberry Sour – with these beers showcased throughout the restaurant’s food & cocktail menus.

Additionally, the house wine – Devil’s Corner – is sourced directly from Hazards Vineyards, the largest vineyard in Tasmania; and it’s worth a try, because it's said that the intensity of flavour captured in these tasty wines is particularly specific to them being exposed to the unpredictable and wild East Coast elements of this part of Tassie.

A true culinary experience all ‘round, with a stunning scenic backdrop to boot. 

Stillwater Restaurant

Take a short 10-minute stroll from central Launceston, and you’ll come across Stillwater Restaurant – a gorgeous dining establishment, housed in an elegantly restored 1830s flour mill, along the serene Tamar River. 

Offering a unique blend of history and contemporary elegance, Stillwater Restaurant has enchanted each and every guest since its debut in 2000, and garnered numerous accolades both national and state, making it one of the most recognised and awarded dining establishments in Tasmania. 

Its achievements haven’t made it any less charming or welcoming though; and what you’ll find when you come here is brilliant, humble service in beautiful surroundings, and a memorable dining experience centred on premium, locally-sourced seafood – with a menu that changes daily based on the freshest seasonal catches. 

What’s more, the dedicated team at Stillwater takes pride in their intimate knowledge of each ingredient, sharing captivating stories about their origins – from the famed Cape Grim water to locally harvested vegetables – making every meal a journey through Tasmania’s rich culinary landscape.

For the complete package, book a night or more at Stillwater Seven, the boutique accommodation located just above the restaurant, offering seven luxurious suites to choose from, all beautifully decorated in contemporary decor, and with stunning riverside views. 

Boatyard Launceston

Sticking with the nautical vibe, Boatyard Launceston offers the opportunity to relax and unwind over a delicious meal, in a casual yet classic setting, while gazing over one of the country’s oldest slip yards.

Think seasonal seafood pasta or Peruvian Paella, to humble fish & chips, with the menu also designed to have a range of smaller plates designed to be shared, so no-one misses out. 

Brunch and lunch dishes are also available, so luckily, this is a place to pop into anytime, whether it's for a brekkie bite or a more filling meal – all with panoramic views of the Cataract Gorge and Tamar river. 

A waterfront eatery you’re sure to love… especially if you manage to catch the stunning sunset from its cruisy deck in the evenings. 

Black Cow Bistro

If you’re in the mood for something meatier, head to this place – the name says it all.

Boasting some of the best beef Tassie has to offer, there are six types of steaks on the grill menu at Black Cow – including the Cape Grim Rib-eye or Eye fillet, Porterhouse “New York” cut, and the mouthwatering slow-cooked Robbins Island Wagyu Rump – plus plenty of delicious sauces and sides to go with. 

Whatever you choose, what you’re guaranteed on the plate 100%, is premium dry aged, free range, grass fed, and hormone free Tasmanian beef. Filling, tasty, and with a great glass of cool climate wine to go with. 

Get a table, choose your cut, and get ready to dig into a memorable meal, in a modern, relaxed setting. 

Felix Expresso & Wine Bar

A cute little neighbourhood bar with an Italian twist, Felix is a small & intimate venue, loved by locals, and sure to steal your heart away with one visit. 

It’s a boutique spot with a playful vibe, and offers everything from a quick top-notch expresso in the AM, to delicious fresh Italian Panini available for lunch takeaway. Its special though, is fresh, handmade pasta, on a rotating chef’s menu with accompanying plates in the evening – plus a curated selection of wines from Tasmania, the rest of Australia and beyond to match. 

A quaint, day & night pasta and wine bar which showcases Italo-Australian fusion, done well. 

Bar Two

This tiny Euro-inspired hideaway, nestled in the heart of Launceston, is a place you can discover an exceptional selection of Tasmanian wines, beers, whiskies, and handcrafted gins. A neighbourhood favourite, Bar Two is a cosy spot perfect for a pre-dinner drink or a leisurely evening, to chit-chat with friends and discuss the day’s adventures. 

Adorable, any way you look at it.

Havilah

Brown leather booths, cosy bar-stools where you’ll find relaxed locals perched and chatting whilst looking onto Launceston’s streets from the front floor-to-ceiling window, and warm wooden accents all round – that’s just one way to describe the look and feel of this cool spot. 

It’s got a rustic charm that immediately communicates the love for food, wine and Launceston that led to the creation of Havilah in July 2020. It’s been created as a place for locals and visitors to learn, taste and understand Tasmanian wine in context to other regions of the world – and that’s exactly what it does.

The food menu is short and sweet, but the drinks selection is where this place shines. Guests can choose from an array of classic cocktails, craft beers, and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages – but it’s also a real destination for wine enthusiasts, featuring the renowned Havilah label alongside the exclusive Two Tonne Tasmania collection, which is available for tastings by appointment. 

Saint John Craft Beer Bar  

Named after its founding position on St. John Street, Launceston, this spot is all about supporting independent brewers overall.

It features 18 taps with the best of international, Australian, and especially Tasmanian craft beer on offer – essentially reviving the classic tradition of beer enjoyment with a modern twist. 

Head here, and you’ll have plenty to choose from, thanks to its diverse selection of over 170 brews from rotating kegs, alongside a curated range of whiskies, gins, and craft ciders; plus American-style fare and delicious bar snacks. At Saint John Craft Beer Bar, you’re spoilt for choice.

A real destination for anyone heading to Tassie’s north. 

Du Cane Brewery

Getting back to basics – Du Cane Brewery keeps it simple, but absolutely brilliant, with its combination of wood-fired pizzas and housemade breads, and an impressive selection of crafted local beers and beverages to choose from. 

This family-friendly brewery and dining hall, housed in a huge old camping goods store, and located on beautiful Princes Square in the heart of Launceston, is inspired by travel and the outdoors; and keeps things chilled – literally. Apart from its massive three-walled glass fireplace, of course; just in case you get cold while sipping your frosty beer. 

As expected, all pints here are made in-house, and beer paddles are available, so visitors can try one of everything. If you want to change it up, there are also local Tassie whiskies, gins and wines to enjoy; so there’s something for everyone, in an authentic, fun local atmosphere. 

Experiences

Josef Chromy Cellar Door

If you’re willing to travel just a short 10 minutes drive from the Launceston city centre, then you’ll be rewarded by the charm of Josef Chromy, where fine wine, rich heritage, and stunning architecture come together in perfect harmony. 

This acclaimed winery, set in a gorgeous 1880s homestead – and surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens and serene lakeside views – encompasses 61 acres of beautiful vineyards and grounds, heritage buildings, and a hatted on-site restaurant.  

It does welcome walk-ins, but for a real experience, book in and indulge in a curated tasting of four exquisite wines, guided by its friendly experts, and then settle in to relish in the region's finest produce at its celebrated dining establishment. A must-visit gem in Northern Tasmania.

Harvest Market Launceston

Coming to life in 2012, this award-winning farmers' market has since been a Saturday staple, rain or shine – and a regular for the locals. 

Centrally located in the Launceston CBD, at Harvest Market you’ll find the freshest produce, flowers, arts, crafts and more, from over 70 local vendors; including organic farmers, artisanal bakers, and skilled butchers – a treasure trove for food enthusiasts and an awesome way to discover the best the city has to offer. 

A not-for-profit community initiative run by dedicated volunteers, and an outlet for Tasmania’s primary producers and platform for small businesses, it’s also good to know that by shopping at Harvest you’ll also be supporting the local food economy and the Tasmanian community. What could be better?

Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery

Described as Launceston’s cultural jewel, the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) is a major destination for art, history and natural sciences in Northern Tasmania – and Australia's largest regional museum.

Set across two sites: the 1891 gallery at Royal Park in the city, and a contemporary reimagining of an 1870s railway workshop in the suburb of Inveresk (about 2km away), the collections have been in the making since 1842, but are constantly evolving – and that’s what keeps visitors coming back.