Port Arthur

On a tour of Port Arthur, you'll see the vast ruins of the penal settlement, including the Penitentiary, Separate Prison, Dockyard, Port Arthur gardens, Coal Mines Historic Site, Cascades Female Factory, and Gothic church. Prebook a 2-day pass or take a private or small-group tour that leaves from Hobart, often combined with activities such as a scenic cruise around Tasman Peninsula, a clifftop walk to Waterfall Bay, or a Hobart city tour. Two-day entrance tickets to Port Arthur include a guided walking tour, a harbor cruise, and access to all sites, except the Isle of the Dead and Point Puer, for which guided tours are extra.

• The Port Arthur historic site is spread across 100 acres (40 hectares), so plan at least a half-day visit.

• Facilities at Port Arthur include a visitor center, restrooms, a gift shop, and a café/restaurant.

• Cell phone coverage is limited at Port Arthur, but free Wi-Fi is available on-site.

• Bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, a raincoat, and plenty of water if you plan on taking a walking tour—weather can change quickly at the open-air site.

• Most of the Port Arthur historic site is wheelchair accessible, and a shuttle buggy service is available for those with limited mobility.

Port Arthur is located on the Tasman Peninsula, 37 miles (60 kilometers) south of Hobart. Public buses run from the city, and it’s a 1.5-hour drive along the scenic Arthur Highway, crossing Eaglehawk Neck, the narrow isthmus that joins the peninsula to the mainland. The closest airport is in Hobart.

Port Arthur is open year round, with hours extended in the summer. Since the summer season (December to February) is busy, it’s best to arrive early to avoid crowds. Visiting off-season is generally quieter, but be prepared for changeable weather and less frequent tours.

The stories of Port Arthur are told in different ways. Interactive displays tell the tragic story of the 12,500 convicts who served time from 1830 to 1877, while after-dark ghost tours explore the site’s haunted buildings. Optional guided tours visit the Isle of the Dead, the final resting place for many of the convicts, and the Point Puer boys’ prison, an experimental prison that housed around 3,000 young boys between 1834 and 1849.

Determining the best Port Arthur tour depends on your preferences. Some popular options include guided tours with knowledgeable guides, ghost tours for a spookier experience, and self-guided tours for more flexibility. Consider what interests you the most, whether it's history, storytelling, or exploring at your own pace.

Port Arthur entry tickets are valid for two consecutive days; the minimum recommended time to visit is about four hours. You'll want to explore the historical site, including the main penitentiary and separate prison, and see the area's natural beauty and exhibitions. Let your interests and available time guide you.

Yes, Port Arthur is a must-see. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating journey into Australia's convict past. Guests can explore the site's scenic beauty, well-preserved ruins, and chilling separate prison. It's an educational experience that immerses you in the nation's history.

To make the most of a day in Port Arthur and its 30-plus attractions, explore the ruins, visit the separate prison, and enjoy scenic walks. Round out the experience with a harbor cruise, a visit to the Port Arthur Gallery, and a relaxing meal at one of the on-site restaurants.

Port Arthur Historic Site in Tasmania, Australia, is open daily from morning to early evening, except for Christmas Day. These dates, plus the 2-day entry ticket, allow travelers the flexibility to plan their visit according to their schedule and preferences.

Port Arthur is renowned for its historical significance as a former convict settlement in Tasmania, Australia. Its notoriety lies in its haunting past, a time when convicts endured harsh conditions. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors with preserved ruins, stories of hardship, and picturesque surroundings.