Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens - Image 1
1 / 10

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

4.7
·7k reviews·Hobart, Australia

Explore 14 hectares of diverse flora, from native Tasmanian plants to international collections, in Australia's second-oldest botanical garden.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens - Image 1

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore 14 hectares of diverse flora, from native Tasmanian plants to international collections, in Australia's second-oldest botanical garden.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"A dream, lot of different plants and flowers. Different part of the globe scenario and amazing, beautiful, perfect care to detail."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Allow ample time

Plan for 2-3 hours to fully explore the 14 hectares; don't rush this magical place!

👟 Comfortable shoes are key

You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive gardens.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Japanese Garden

Japanese Garden

Queens Domain

An authentic and beautifully maintained Japanese Garden, often highlighted for its serene atmosphere and pink flowers.

Subantarctic Plant House

Subantarctic Plant House

Queens Domain

Step into a unique environment showcasing plants from the Subantarctic region, offering a glimpse into a different climate.

Conservatory

Conservatory

Queens Domain

Described as enchanting and fairy-tale-like, this conservatory is a must-see for its magical ambiance and diverse plant life.

Tasmanian Native Section

Tasmanian Native Section

Queens Domain

Explore the diverse flora native to Tasmania, offering a deep dive into the island's unique botanical heritage.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While entry is free, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Early mornings offer serene beauty, and late afternoons provide golden hour light for photos. Allow at least 2-3 hours to truly explore the diverse sections.

Free Entry, Rich Experience

The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens offer free admission, making it an accessible and rewarding experience. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning flora, or grab a bite at the on-site cafe. Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Beautiful autumnal colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Spending the day in Hobart, Tasmania exploring the Botanical Gardens, lunch at In The Hanging Garden, wine at Molto and dinner at Templo 🇦🇺 #australia
@amfoskey
9.4K likes • 220.1K views

🎯 Allow ample time

Plan for 2-3 hours to fully explore the 14 hectares; don't rush this magical place! Reddit

👟 Comfortable shoes are key

You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive gardens. Reddit

5 must do things in Hobart, Tasmania ✈️ [part 1/2] In this video: 1️⃣ MONA Museum in Hobart 2️⃣ Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens #hobart #tasmania #australia #travelvlog #traveltok things to do in Tasmania | Australia travel tips | travel vlog
@jubilee_eats
4.5K likes • 264.7K views
Beautiful morning in the Botanical Gardens 🌱 .. a garden doesn’t just grow, it blooms 🪷 📍 Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, Hobart . . . What are you doing for you and your future self today? #garden #botanicalgardens #hobarttasmania #hobart #tasmaniangardens #surroundyourself #gardensofinstagram #gardenstagram
jaye_c_t
6 likes • 782 views

📸 Perfect for photographers

The gardens offer stunning backdrops and diverse flora for beautiful photos. Instagram+1

🧺 Picnic spots abound

Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery. Reddit

What’s the best way to spend a sunny Spring day? It’s got to be exploring the incredible Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens 🥰🌷 @rtbg_tasmania Free entry, accessible, and open 8am - 5pm 🌼 It’s just a short walk or drive from the Hotel, or you could catch a Red Decker Bus @reddeckerhobart 🚌 Check out their website for more information 🌸 #rtbg #hotelgrandchancellorhobart #tasmania #hobart #botan...
grandchancellorhobart
33 likes • 888 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Allow ample time

Plan for 2-3 hours to fully explore the 14 hectares; don't rush this magical place! Reddit

👟 Comfortable shoes are key

You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive gardens. Reddit

📸 Perfect for photographers

The gardens offer stunning backdrops and diverse flora for beautiful photos. Instagram+1

🧺 Picnic spots abound

Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery. Reddit

🗺️ Grab a map

The garden map is very helpful for navigating the different sections. Reddit

🤝 Friendly volunteers

Don't hesitate to ask volunteers for information; they are very helpful! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens for their beauty, meticulous care, and diverse collections, with the Japanese Garden and Conservatory being particular highlights. Many appreciate the free entry and the opportunity for a relaxing, educational experience. Some minor points of feedback relate to the need for clear signage in certain areas and the desire for more pop-up cafes.

"Magic and huge gardener!
A dream, lot of different plants and flowers. Different part of the globe scenario and amazing, beautiful, perfect care to detail. Lovely to spending some time, take pictures and be grateful for the creator. Thank Jesus! Thank God allowing us to explore such a great place."

Zilma Ribeiro

"I am most impressed with their Japanese Garden, it is so authentic and beautifully done. It made me feel I was back in Japan. The conservatory was most enchanting, it felt like I was in a fairy tale. Such a nice park overall. So many things to see like Subantarctic plant house and pineapple house. Friendly staff/volunteers, very clean and it is just magic to be in there."

Momo Tsukino

"Amazing Botanical Gardens, so beautiful walking around looking at all the local and international fauna. The Japanese garden was a highlight with the pink flowers everywhere. Highly recommend for everyone to visit and take some time to relax walking around!"

Mitchell Pym

What People Like

Magical and well-maintained gardens
Authentic Japanese Garden
Enchanting Conservatory

What People Dislike

Occasional signage confusion

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The gardens are located in the Queens Domain, a short walk or drive from Hobart's city center. You can also catch a Red Decker Bus. Instagram+1

Yes, parking is generally available, though it can get busy on weekends. Instagram

Yes, the Red Decker Bus is a convenient option for reaching the gardens from the city. Instagram

Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk, taking you through the Queens Domain area. TikTokInstagram

Walking, driving, or taking a bus are all great options, depending on your preference and location. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is free! Instagram+1

The gardens are typically open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. It's always a good idea to check their official website for any seasonal changes. Instagram

Since entry is free, no advance booking is required. You can visit anytime during opening hours. Instagram

The gardens occasionally host events and offer guided tours. Check their website for the latest schedule. Reddit

Generally, pets are not allowed in botanical gardens to protect the plant collections. Please check the official guidelines. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors recommend at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the gardens, with some spending half a day. Reddit

Highlights include the Japanese Garden, Subantarctic Plant House, Conservatory, and the Tasmanian Native Section. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are facilities available, including a cafe and restrooms, making your visit comfortable. Reddit

Yes, children can enjoy exploring the open spaces and diverse plant life. It's a great educational outing. TikTok

You'll find a wide variety of native Tasmanian flora, as well as international collections, including those from Japan and the Subantarctic region. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing the gardens' beauty. Early mornings are also great for soft light and fewer people. Instagram

The Japanese Garden, the Conservatory, and areas with seasonal blooms are highly recommended for stunning photos. InstagramReddit+1

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to check the official garden rules or inquire at the visitor center to ensure compliance. Instagram

Macro photography of flowers, landscape shots of the gardens, and capturing the architectural elements like the Conservatory are popular. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically prohibited in botanical gardens to ensure the safety of visitors and the preservation of the environment. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens offer a wonderful, free outing for families. Kids can enjoy the open spaces for running around and discovering different plants and textures. The diverse sections, like the Japanese Garden or the Conservatory, can spark their imagination. TikTok It's a great opportunity for a nature-focused educational experience, encouraging curiosity about the plant world. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, or utilize the on-site cafe for convenience. Comfortable shoes are a must for little explorers!

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are a dream destination. The variety of flora, meticulously maintained gardens, and diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Instagram+1 The Japanese Garden offers serene compositions, while the Conservatory presents unique architectural and botanical subjects. Reddit Visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon will provide the best natural light for capturing the gardens' beauty. Instagram Be sure to check any specific photography guidelines regarding tripods or professional shoots.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are an absolute gem for budget travelers, as entry is completely free! Instagram+1 This allows you to experience a significant attraction without any cost. To maximize savings, consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful surroundings, rather than relying solely on the cafe. Reddit Combine your visit with a walk from Hobart's city center to save on transportation costs. TikTokInstagram It's a fantastic way to spend a day immersing yourself in nature and local beauty without spending a fortune.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Living History: The Gardens' Legacy

Established in 1818, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens hold the distinction of being the second-oldest botanical garden in Australia, just two years younger than Sydney's. Instagram Over the centuries, as Hobart grew, the gardens evolved from a place of botanical study to a cherished public space for rest and recreation. This historical development is evident in the diverse landscaping styles and the preservation of heritage plant collections. Visitors can feel the weight of history as they wander through areas that have been meticulously cared for by generations of horticulturists. Instagram

Key to the gardens' enduring appeal is their commitment to showcasing a wide array of plant life. From the Tasmanian Native Section, which highlights the island's unique endemic species, to international collections, there's a constant sense of discovery. The Subantarctic Plant House offers a unique glimpse into extreme climates, while the Japanese Garden provides a tranquil, culturally rich experience. These distinct zones allow visitors to embark on a global botanical journey without leaving Hobart. Instagram+1

The gardens are not just about plants; they are also about the experience they offer. The Conservatory is often described as magical, evoking a fairy-tale atmosphere, and the overall care and detail put into every section are frequently praised. Reddit This dedication to beauty and preservation makes the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens a truly special place, blending historical significance with contemporary horticultural excellence.

Navigating the Green Oasis: Visitor Experience

The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are a sprawling 14-hectare site, and visitors consistently recommend allocating a good chunk of time—at least 2 to 3 hours, if not half a day—to truly soak it all in. Reddit The sheer variety of themed gardens means you can easily spend hours exploring. The Japanese Garden is a standout, frequently lauded for its authenticity and beauty, often described as transporting visitors to Japan. InstagramReddit

For those seeking a unique botanical encounter, the Subantarctic Plant House is a must-visit, offering a fascinating look at plants adapted to harsh, cold climates. Reddit The Conservatory is another highlight, with visitors describing it as enchanting and reminiscent of a fairy tale. Reddit Beyond these specific areas, the general landscape, including the Tasmanian Native Section, provides a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing stroll or a leisurely picnic. InstagramReddit

Practical advice from visitors emphasizes wearing comfortable shoes due to the extensive walking involved. Reddit The availability of a helpful map and the presence of knowledgeable, friendly volunteers who are happy to share insights about the gardens further enhance the visitor experience. Reddit This combination of natural beauty, diverse collections, and community-driven support makes for a memorable visit.

You may also like