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Port Arthur Historic Site [official]
Active
3h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Port Arthur Historic Site offers a compelling glimpse into Australia's convict past, focusing on the penal settlement, convict labour, and the profound influence on the nation's development and colonial life. As a place or secondary-punishment, Port Arthur was specifically designed as a prison for re-offending male convicts.
Additional tours can be selected to be included in your ticket:
The 45 min Essentials Tour is our most accessible guided tour providing the essential history and stories of Port Arthur.
The 90 min Premium Tour delves deeper into the stories behind our iconic buildings and their fascinating past on this small group guided walk.
For the 40 min Isle of the Dead tour, step off the harbour cruise for a guided walking tour around the final resting place for over 1,000 convicts, soldiers, and free settlers.
On the 60 min Escapes tour, hear tales of the desperate convicts,
determined to escape.
Available options
Escape from Port Arthur
Tour at 11am, Cruise at 1pm: Meet cunning characters on the Escape From Port Arthur tour at 11am, with a harbour cruise at 1pm. See listing for details.
Isle of the Dead
Cruise/Tour at 1pm: Your harbour cruise at 1pm will stop at the Isle of the Dead for your tour of the island cemetery. See listing for details.
General Admission (afternoon)
Cruise at 3:40pm: Visit in the afternoon with a harbour cruise at 3:40pm.
The Premium Tour
Tour at 1:30, Cruise at 3:40: Delve deeper with The Port Arthur Premium Tour at 1:30pm, with a harbour cruise at 3:40pm. See listing for details.
Premium + Escape
Tours 12pm + 3pm, Cruise 2:20: Pair your Premium Tour at 12pm with tales of Escapes at 3pm, and harbour cruise at 2:20pm. See listing for details.
The Essentials (morning)
Tour at 10:30, Cruise at 12:20: Grab the basics with the Port Arthur Essentials Tour at 10:30am, with a harbour cruise at 12:20pm. See listing for details.
Premium + Isle of the Dead
Tour at 12, Cruise/Tour at 3pm: Pair your Premium Tour at 12pm with the Isle of the Dead tour attached to the cruise at 3pm. See listing for details.
The Essentials (afternoon)
Tour at 12:30, Cruise at 2:20: Grab the basics with the Port Arthur Essentials Tour at 12:30pm, with a harbour cruise at 2:20pm. See listing for details.
General Admission (morning)
Cruise at 11am: Visit in the morning with a harbour cruise at 11am.
What's included
Tours, as selected in options
Self-guided audio experience
Map of the site
Access to the World Heritage Site, gardens, historic buildings, and ruins for 2 consecutive days
20-minute harbour cruise
Talks by expert guides, at iconic buildings, throughout the day
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site, located 90 minutes’ drive southeast of Hobart, brings Australia’s early convict history to life.
The Port Arthur Historic Site covers 100 acres of gardens and grounds, with more than 30 historic buildings and ruins to explore.
All entry passes are valid for two consecutive days and include a harbour cruise, a self-guided audio experience and complimentary site talks throughout the day.
Available languages
Audio guide
CMN
JA
EN
FR
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
42 reviews
5★
27
4★
11
3★
3
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.5
235 reviews
5★
161
4★
48
3★
13
2★
10
1★
3
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Meeting point
Tours depart from the foyer at the Port Arthur Historic Site Visitors Centre. The Visitors Centre also offers cafe/bistro, free parking, and visitor information.
Important notes
Port Arthur Historic Site is a 90-minute drive from Hobart and the journey offers some of the best sightseeing in Tasmania.
Free car parking is available onsite. A few simple preparations before your visit will make sure your time at Port Arthur Historic Site is the best it can be.
The Port Arthur Historic Site covers more than 40 hectares (100 acres) of open land. While you will explore a number of intact buildings during your visit, many of the historic ruins are without roofs, and most of your visit will be spent outdoors. The site’s coastal location means you can experience sudden weather changes. Make sure you’re prepared for sun, rain, wind, cold and warmth! Sunscreen, hats and wet-weather ponchos can also be purchased in the Gift Shop.
About Port Arthur
Port Arthur is a historic site and former penal colony located in Tasmania, Australia. It is one of the most significant heritage sites in Australia, offering a glimpse into the country's convict past with its well-preserved ruins and scenic beauty.
Top Attractions
Port Arthur Historic Site
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site that was once a notorious penal colony. It features well-preserved ruins, a museum, and guided tours.
Historical
3-5 hours
Moderate ($35-$40 AUD)
Point Puer
A former juvenile penal colony that offers insights into the lives of young convicts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Included with Port Arthur Historic Site ticket
Three Capes Track
A multi-day hiking trail offering stunning coastal views and diverse wildlife.
Nature
3-4 days
Moderate (permit required)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fresh Tasmanian Salmon
Grilled or smoked salmon, often served with local vegetables and grains.
Main Course
Gluten-free options available
Oysters
Freshly shucked oysters from the nearby waters, often served with a variety of sauces.
Appetizer
Gluten-free, dairy-free
Popular Activities
Hiking
Wildlife spotting
Scenic drives
Wine tasting
Picnicking
Photography
Guided tours of the historic site
Visiting local museums
Best Time to Visit
December to February
The summer months offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the historic site.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Time Zone
AEST (GMT+10)
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Port Arthur is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when walking alone at night
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Follow safety guidelines at the historic site
Getting there
By air
- Hobart International Airport • 90 km (56 miles)
By bus
Hobart
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are available but infrequent. Plan your schedule accordingly.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No specific apps, local taxi services available
Rentals
Car
Neighborhoods
Port Arthur Village
Day trips
Eaglehawk Neck
15 km (9 miles) • Half day
A narrow isthmus connecting the Tasman Peninsula with the rest of Tasmania, known for its natural beauty and historical significance.
Tasman Peninsula
30 km (19 miles) • Full day
A scenic peninsula with rugged coastlines, sea cliffs, and diverse wildlife.
Festivals
Tasman Peninsula Food and Wine Festival • Annual, typically in summer
Pro tips
- Visit the historic site early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Join a guided tour for a more in-depth experience
- Pack layers as the weather can change quickly
- Consider staying in Hobart for more dining and accommodation options
- Check for any seasonal events or closures before your visit
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
