A Travel Guide to Port Arthur, a Place Beyond the Ruins 

Port Arthur has a lot of beautiful attractions you should visit. The site has spectacular historical remains, stunning coastal scenery and well preserved ruins. The region has remarkable caves, incredible islands and challenging hiking trails. It also offers some of the best guided tours, wonderful cruise rides and a wide variety of wildlife. If you are an adventurer or a history lover, then you should visit this glorious historical site. And you will admire every single thing about it.

Are you planning to visit Port Arthur? I am here to help you. I have been living in Hobart, nearly Port Arthur, for many years. And I have explored this site more than a dozen times. In this detailed travel guide to Port Arthur, I have shared my personal experience about Port Arthur that will help you to further enhance your visiting experience here. So, are you excited? Let’s dive in!.

Port Arthur is one of the most iconic and historically significant destinations you should visit. The site is located on the Tasman Peninsula. The port is approximately 97 kilometers away from Hobart. From Hobart, you will have to drive for 90-minutes. And you will reach one of the most historically significant sites of Australia. I recommend you to visit it. And you will remember this experience for the rest of your life.

Port Arthur was actually established in the 1830s as a penal colony by the British Empire. It was a home to thousands of convicts under some of the harshest conditions. Today, visitors from different areas explore these well-preserved ruins here. Some of the best among them include the penitentiary, the commandant’s house and the church. The area around the historic site also includes lush green forests, rugged coastlines and unique wildlife. The historic architecture and the scenic coastal landscape makes these surroundings truly spectacular.

Port Arthur is in the list of UNESCO World Heritage’s sites. It is one of the most important historical sites in Australia. The region has remarkable ruins and remains. So when you are here, I recommend you respect the historical buildings and environment here. You should stay on the marked roads and follow the conservation guidelines. And enjoy this significant historical site in its entirety.

You can visit Port Arthur anytime you want to. But the best time I recommend you to visit here is during the Tasmanian summer time. The summer time in the Tasmanian region is from December to February. During this period, the weather is warm and the days are long. So you will get more time to explore all the captivating sites here. This is the peak time for tourism in this area. A lot of tourists visit this place in the summer season. 

But, if you prefer fewer crowds, then you should visit here in the seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). The weather during these seasons is much cooler. New buds are coming out, which enhance the beautiful scenery of the port to the next level. The foliage are changing their colors and the whole region looks truly magical.

I am a local in Hobart. So I have been to Port Arthur a lot of times. And based on my personal experience, I will be giving you some pro tips. Believe me, these tips will be very helpful for you when you are visiting here.

The first and the most important tip I am giving you for your Port Arthur tour is to start your day early. Port Arthur is a very popular tourist destination. This place has more tourists during the peak season. So I recommend you to arrive here early. This will allow you to explore the site without being stuck in the large crowds. 

The early morning light will also give you a great opportunity for better photography. The scenery looks incredible in the morning, especially over the historic ruins and surrounding landscapes. So you will be able to capture more spectacular photos. Moreover, if you arrive here early, then you will have more time to visit the nearby attractions. And it will make your trip more enjoyable and pleasant.

Port Arthur is very busy during peak travel times. There are a lot of people here in summer and during holidays. So I recommend you to book your entrance tickets and tours in advance. It is very important if you want to avoid disappointment and secure your spot. There are guided tours available like the “Isle of the Dead” or the evening ghost tours. They are very popular and they fill up surprisingly fast. I suggest you should book them online in advance to make sure that you get the most out of your visit. Trust me, you will not regret it.

Port Arthur has amazing picnic areas. There, you can enjoy your meal with alluring views of the historical sites and surrounding natural beauty. I urge you to pack the picnic from your home. It is a great option if you prefer a healthy meal in a more relaxed and flexible way. 

But, if you don’t want to do it, then you can try the local food of the area. If you want to eat the best local eateries here, then I recommend you to visit Felons Bistro. It is my personal favorite for satisfying my stomach’s cravings. You should also visit the Port Arthur Lavender Farm Cafe nearby for a unique lavender-inspired treat. And you will remember the taste they provide for years.

Port Arthur has a very rich and diverse history. So I suggest you should join the guided tours when you are visiting here. You can explore the port on your own too. But a guided tour will give you more information and much deeper insights into the history of the convict settlement. 

There are general introduction tours and specialized experience tours like the Convict Experience Tour here. You should join any tour among them and they will enrich your understanding of Port Arthur’s history. You should also join the evening ghosts tours. It will add an eerie but fascinating aspect to your trip. Believe me, you will remember these experiences for the rest of your life.

Port Arthur is a very famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of the most significant historical landmarks of Australia. So I recommend you to take greater care of the place. I suggest you should stick to the designated paths only. You should also follow the rules and regulations and do not disturb the ruins or artifacts. This will enable us to preserve the incredible historical remains of the past in original shape for a longer time. So that our future generations can enjoy the spectacular views and learn from their history.

Port Arthur has some of the most beautiful nearby attractions. These attractions include the Tasman National Park, Remarkable Cave, the Tasman Arch and much more. So if you have enough time, then I suggest you should extend your trip to explore these wonderful attractions. These places offer some of the most stunning views and beautiful walks. They also provide a chance to experience the Tasman Peninsula’s rugged beauty. I recommend you to take a boat tour around the coastline too. And it will let you see a different and astounding perspective of the region. Must try it, and you will love it.

Port Arthur is not an area you can truly explore in a single day. So I urge you to stay overnight at one of the nearby accommodations if you want to get the most of your visit. This will give you enough time to explore the port and the surrounding areas in a relaxed and peaceful manner. It will also enable you to have incredible additional experiences. For instance, you can join the unforgettable evening tours or a hike in Tasman National Park. Trust me, these experiences will leave an indelible mark on your mind. 

I have been living here for a long time and believe me, the weather of Tasmania is very unpredictable. It can change rapidly, especially if you are near the coast. Even if it’s a clear day, the coastal winds can make the temperature feel cooler anytime. So I suggest you bring sun protection and a rain jacket with you. You should also bring some extra layers to be prepared for all conditions. With the right gears, you will be able to enjoy the outdoor beauty of Port Arthur in a more comfortable manner.

Port Arthur is easily accessible from Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania. It is located about 100 kilometers southeast of the city. So you can reach here in 90-120 minutes depending on the traffic conditions. You can get into Port Arthur by a car, bus or an organized tour.

If you are an international traveler or traveling from another city of Australia, then I recommend you to take a flight to reach Port Arthur. Hobart Airport is the main gateway to this region. This airport is approximately 97 km (60 miles) away from Port Arthur. Once you land in the airport, then you will have different options in hand for coming here. 

Famous international and domestic airlines offer flights to Hobart. You can book any of these flights from around the world and all the major cities across Australia. And it will drop you off in the Hobart Airport. Some of the well known airlines offering flights to Hobart include:

Qantas Airways

Virgin Australia

Jetstar

Rex Airlines 

Once you reach the airport, then you can rent a car or book a shuttle for Port Arthur. You can also take a bus to reach here, and it will drop you at the most spectacular site in 90-120.

You can drive from Hobart to Port Arthur. This is the best option for reaching here, and I recommend you to go for it. If you are driving to the site, then you will reach here in about 1.5 hours. But don’t worry, you will not be bored for a single second while you are driving. You will have some of the most breathtaking views along the way. 

You should follow the Tasman Highway (A3) out of Hobart. After that, you should take the Arthur Highway (A9) down to Port Arthur. You will not have any problem with the navigation. The road is well-marked, and the drive is quite enjoyable. You will be passing through beautiful small towns and lush forests. You can stop there, explore the sites, have a sip of coffee and then move to one of the most magnificent sites of the world.

If you don’t own a car or you don’t want to rent a car, then you can take a bus from Hobart. Bus is a more affordable and convenient option for reaching Port Arthur. There are different bus companies that operate daily services between Hobart and Port Arthur. I suggest you should try the Tasmanian Redline Coaches. They offer a more convenient and affordable experience than others. 

The bus ride will take about two hours to reach here. On the way, you will have some of the most spectacular views. You can purchase your ticket online or at the Hobart Transit Center. Sit on the bus, and it will drop you off in a real wonder of more than 30 magnificent buildings.

If you want a more immersive experience of the port, then I urge you to join a guided tour from Hobart. Many tours operate from the city to the port. These tours include transportation, entrance fees, and sometimes accommodation. They will also provide you a guide who will give you a wealth of information about the rich history and significance of Port Arthur. These tours usually stop at other key locations too. So you can explore incredible neighborhoods like the Tasman National Park or Remarkable Cave with them. And it will add a lot to your dazzling Tasmanian adventure.

Port Arthur and the surrounding area offer a variety of accommodation options. These options range from luxury stays to affordable budget friendly accommodations. You can choose any of these options as per your taste and budget.

If you want to experience the ultimate luxury and a high-end experience, then I recommend you to stay in the Stewarts Bay Lodge. This luxurious lodge is located in a serene bay. It is my personal favorite and it offers stunning water views along with modern amenities, private cabins and villas. Another great luxurious option here is the Fox and Hounds Inn. It is a high end luxury hotel offering comfortable rooms, a spa and a bar. You can visit it. And the services you will get here will not disappoint you.

If your budget is a little bit tight and you want a comfortable stay, then I suggest you go for the Port Arthur Villas. It is located close to the historic sites and it offers comfortable rooms, free WiFi and a bar. Another excellent option in mid-range accommodation is the Port Arthur Motor Inn. It is also located close to the port. If you stay in any of these hotels, you will find it very easy to explore the area without spending too much time on traveling. Must try them. And you will not regret it.

Port Arthur also has some of the best options for you if you are a budget traveler. The best one I recommend in the budget category is the NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park. It is the best option for families and backpackers. It  offers comfortable cabins, caravan sites and other camping options. The best thing is that this park is just a short drive away from the port. And this makes it a more convenient and economical option.

If you are a true nature lover, then I urge you to consider camping in Port Arthur. It is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of this historical site. 

Port Arthur has several great camping sites. The best one I recommend to you is the Fortescue Bay Campground. This ground is my own favorite for camping. It is located in the Tasman National Park. The ground offers astounding ocean views. It also offers amazing opportunities for hiking and exploring. So you should try camping here. And you will remember the experience for the rest of your life.

Port Arthur has a lot of fascinating historical sites. After exploring them for the whole day, you will want to relax and enjoy some delectable food. Port Arthur offers a diverse and extensive range of dining options. These options range from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. You should eat at these restaurants. And you will be amazed with the quality of taste they offer.

If you want to taste some fresh Tasmanian produce, then I recommend you to visit Felons Bistro. I have tried their different dishes. And the taste they provide is truly incomparable. I suggest you should try their seafood variety. And the taste will remain in your mouth for years.

Felons Bistro is located at the Port Arthur Historic Site. This place is the perfect one for enjoying your lunch or dinner after exploring the port. The atmosphere of the place is relaxed. It offers outdoor seating too. So you can sit outside and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the surrounding area. This adds an extra layer of excitement to your eating experience. Believe me, you will not regret choosing Felons Bistro.

If money is not an issue for you, then I recommend you run towards the 1830 Restaurant and Bar. It is the best option if you want a more upscale dining experience. It is also a great spot for you if you want a romantic dinner. This restaurant is very famous for its modern Tasmanian cuisine. It has a wide variety of dishes in its menu and the menu changes seasonally. The restaurant also offers some of the most stunning views of Port Arthur. This will further enhance your dining experience to the next level.

If you are searching for something a bit more casual, then I urge you to head towards the Port Arthur Lavender Farm Cafe. It is a beautiful and charming spot. The cafe serves a wide variety of dishes featuring lavender. These dishes range from lavender-infused scones to lavender ice cream. You should visit the cafe. And you will be amazed with its unique, innovative and tasty experience.

You can do a lot of activities in and around Port Arthur. But some of these activities are the must-to-do. I suggest you should try them. And they will boost your tourism experience to the fullest. These activities include:

I recommend that you must explore the Port Arthur Historic Site. It is a well-preserved convict settlement. The site spreads across 100 acres and includes more than 30 buildings, ruins and restored homes. You should visit this place. And it will give you a deep insight into the convict past of Australia. Must explore the Penitentiary here. It is the largest building at the site and was once a home to hundreds of convicts. You should visit the Separate Prison too. In these cells, the inmates were kept in isolation as part of a controversial psychological punishment system. 

You should also take a guided tour to the port. This is the best way to learn more about the rich history of Port Arthur. You can choose from a list of several tours. I suggest you should go for an Introduction Tour, and it will give you a complete overview of the site’s history. You should also go for the Convict Experience Tour. This tour focuses on the lives of the convicts. And it will add a lot to your knowledge about history.

Another best thing I urge you to do is to go on a visit to the Isle of the Dead. It is a short boat ride from the main site. This is the place where more than 1,000 convicts, soldiers and free settlers were buried during Port Arthur’s years of operation. I recommend you to take a guided tour of this island to learn more about its terrifying and haunting past.

If you want a more unique and adventurous experience, then I urge you to take a cruise ride to Point Puer. Point Puer was actually the first boys’ prison in the British Empire. This ride will give you some of the most stunning views of the Tasman Peninsula’s coastline. You should take a guided tour to this place. The guide will tell you the dreadful stories of the young convicts who were sent here. This will blend the natural beauty around with a deeper understanding of the darker past.

If you want to try something more spooky and frightening, then I suggest you join one of Port Arthur’s famous Ghost Tours. These tours are held when it’s completely dark. The guide will take you through the most haunted and spectral parts of the site. While holding a lantern, your guide will share the most eerie stories of ghost sightings with you. The possessed surroundings are enough to send chills through your spine and to make your hair stand on end.

Tasman National Park is another must visiting destination near Port Arthur. This park is just a short drive away from Port Arthur. The place is a home to stunning cliffs, deep caves and rugged coastline. You can do some hiking here too. I recommend you to go for a hike on the famous Cape Raoul Track. And you will love the views you experience in the way. You should also explore the Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen. Believe me, in these places, you will witness some of the most dramatic and wonderful powers of nature.

When you are here in Port Arthur, I recommend you to visit the Remarkable Cave too. It is located just a few kilometers away from Port Arthur. This cave is one of the most impressive natural wonders of the region. The cave is in the sea and is carved into cliffs. Remarkable Cave offers an astonishing view of the ocean. I suggest you should visit here during the sunset time. And you will find some of the most alluring views when the light reflects off the water. Trust me, you will never forget the beauty for the rest of your life. 

If you adore thrills and adventures, then I urge you to go on a hike of the Three Capes Track. This is a long track of four-days hike. The track takes you along the most incredible cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula. These cliffs offer some of the most astounding views in all of Tasmania. Keep in mind again that this hike is very hard and challenging. But the rewards are truly worth it.

If you would like to explore the coastline from a different perspective, then I suggest you consider taking a Tasman Island Cruise. There are different cruises available on the coast. These cruises depart from Port Arthur from time to time. And they will take you along the rugged coast, where you will see unique wildlife such as seals, dolphins and seabirds. Must have the cruise ride. Believe me you will remember the magnificent journey for the rest of your life.