Launceston is a stunning riverside city in Tasmania’s north, and is known for its food, views, and heritage.
Visitors to Launceston enjoy the scenic beauty of its rolling hills, vineyards, valleys and cliffs. Launceston experiences very distinct seasons, meaning that the colours of the landscape are ever-changing, turning the city and countryside vibrant shades of green, red and orange throughout the year.
Some favourite outdoor activities in Launceston include visiting the Cataract Gorge Reserve, the nearby Tamar Valley, Wetlands and River, the Tasmania Zoo, and the Lilydale Falls. Visitors enjoy segway and boat tours, scenic chairlifts, and wine tasting tours that showcase the premium wines and produce of the area.
Launceston draws a range of visitors from around the globe, and has activities, accommodation and restaurants which cater to families, solo adventurers, couples, business travellers, or travelling groups. It’s a particularly popular stopping point for holidaymakers undertaking a driving holiday of Australia’s southern-most state, and showcases classic colonial architecture, as well as a number of historic museums that educate visitors on the area’s rich heritage.
Launceston has a long history with food and wine, and as such, there are a number of celebrations and events held in the area each year. Visitors travel to Launceston for the Harvest Festival, the Farmgate Festival, and a food celebration simply called Festivale, which incorporates all things Tasmanian food, wine, and al fresco dining.
Launceston is easily accessible from various states in Australia, with regular direct flights from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Other domestic visitors and those travelling internationally can easily catch a connecting flight Launceston Airport, which is just a short drive from the CBD. Shuttle services operate between various hotels and the airport, or guests may choose to hire a car or use a taxi service.
While Launceston is only home to 67,070 people, it welcomes many more visitors throughout the year. A range of accommodation caters for these visitors, including hotels, motels, serviced apartments, hostels and holiday parks. In total, Launceston has 286 accommodation options and food services, which employ 8.4 percent of Launceston locals.