Compare Hotels in Launceston
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Launceston, Tasmania's second city, provides a more affordable and compact alternative to Hobart for exploring the state's north. The city sits at the head of the Tamar Valley wine region and within 90 minutes of Cradle Mountain, making it a practical base for two of Tasmania's major drawcards.
The hotel scene centres on the CBD, particularly around Brisbane Street Mall and the Charles Street precinct. Heritage buildings dominate, with several converted warehouses and Victorian-era hotels offering character accommodation. Cataract Gorge, a dramatic river gorge with a public pool, chairlift, and walking trails, sits just 15 minutes' walk from the city centre, an unusual natural feature for a city of 70,000 people.
Accommodation prices sit well below both Hobart and mainland capitals, making Launceston a value option for Tasmanian holidays. The Tamar Valley's cellar doors are a 20-40 minute drive north, and the city's dining scene, while smaller than Hobart's, punches above its weight with restaurants like Stillwater and Black Cow earning statewide reputations.
Quick Facts
Average Price
$110 - $220 per night
Best Time to Visit
December to March for warmest weather (14-24°C) and longest days. Autumn (March-May) brings harvest season in the Tamar Valley. Winter (June-August) is cold (2-12°C) but quiet, with lower prices.
Top Neighbourhoods
CBD, Invermay, Trevallyn, East Launceston
Where to Stay in Launceston
Launceston is northern Tasmania's cultural hub. A compact, walkable city with Cataract Gorge on its doorstep, world-class wine in the Tamar Valley, and a food scene that rivals Hobart's. The hotel market is intimate and heritage-focused, with no high-rise chains. It's Tasmania's second city but first for wine and outdoor access.
What to Expect
Peak: Dec-Feb (summer, festival season). Shoulder: Mar-May, Sep-Nov. Low: Jun-Aug (cold winters but great for wine touring).
Budget
$100-160/night
1–3 stars
Mid-Range
$180-300/night
3–4 stars
Luxury
$280-500+/night
4–5 stars
Insider Tips
- Cataract Gorge is a 15-minute walk from the CBD. One of the most dramatic natural features in any Australian city
- The Tamar Valley wine route starts 15min from the city centre. Book a hotel in town and day-trip the cellar doors
- Inveresk is the cultural precinct (QVMAG, design centre) with converted warehouse accommodation
- Launceston is a perfect base for day trips to Cradle Mountain (2hr drive) and the northeast coast