HobartvsMelbourne
Can't decide between Hobart and Melbourne? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Hobart
Hobart is Tasmania's captivating capital, nestled between kunanyi/Mount Wellington and the Derwent River. The city combines a rich convict history with a thriving contemporary arts scene led by MONA, exceptional seafood, cool-climate wines, and pristine wilderness.
Known for
Melbourne
Melbourne is Australia's cultural capital, a sophisticated city of laneways, street art, world-class coffee, and incredible food. This creative hub offers excellent museums, vibrant neighborhoods, and passionate sports culture.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Hobart offers MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), Salamanca Market, kunanyi/Mount Wellington
Melbourne offers Hosier Lane Street Art, Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne Cricket Ground
Food & Dining
Hobart is famous for its local dining scene
Melbourne is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Hobart offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Melbourne offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
December to March
September to November, March to May
Weather
Summer: 21°C, Winter: 9°C
Summer: 26°C, Winter: 14°C
Top Attractions in Hobart
- 1MONA (Museum of Old and New Art)
- 2Salamanca Market
- 3kunanyi/Mount Wellington
- 4Battery Point
- 5Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery
- 6Port Arthur (day trip)
Top Attractions in Melbourne
- 1Hosier Lane Street Art
- 2Queen Victoria Market
- 3Melbourne Cricket Ground
- 4Royal Botanic Gardens
- 5Great Ocean Road Day Trip
- 6Federation Square
Hobart is Popular With
Melbourne is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Hobart
- 1
Cascades Female Factory Historic Site
A lesser-known but deeply moving UNESCO site dedicated to the stories of female convicts transported to Tasmania.
- 2
Maritime Museum of Tasmania
A compact museum in the Carnegie Building near the waterfront, packed with models, artifacts, and stories of Tasmania's seafaring history.
Hidden Gems in Melbourne
- 1
The Johnston Collection
A stunning, appointment-only house museum in East Melbourne, featuring the eclectic decorative arts collection of antique dealer William Johnston.
- 2
Abbotsford Convent & Collingwood Children's Farm
A former convent turned vibrant arts, culture, and community precinct on the Yarra River, with cafes, studios, galleries, and a working farm next door.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Hobart
Salamanca Place & Battery Point
The historic heart of Hobart, where 1830s Georgian sandstone warehouses line the waterfront.
Waterfront & CBD
The working harbor and commercial center, alive with fishing boats, ferries, and waterfront restaurants.
Top Areas in Melbourne
Fitzroy & Collingwood
The epicenter of Melbourne's alternative and bohemian spirit, packed with vintage clothing stores, independent galleries, live music venues, and some of the city's best cafes and bars.
St Kilda
A vibrant, eclectic seaside suburb known for its historic pier, beachfront promenade, Luna Park amusement park, and bustling Acland Street cake shops.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Hobart
Budget in Melbourne
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Hobart
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Book Activities in Melbourne
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Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Hobart
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Find cheap transport to Melbourne
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Our Verdict
Both Hobart and Melbourne are incredible destinations. Hobart excels in MONA and Salamanca Market, while Melbourne stands out for coffee culture and street art.
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