Complete school term and holiday information for 2026
Tasmania, Australia's island state, offers families a unique combination of pristine wilderness, colonial heritage, and world-class food and wine experiences. From the dramatic landscapes of Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park to the historic streets of Hobart and the lavender fields of the Midlands, Tasmania provides intimate, nature-focused holidays that feel worlds away from mainland cities.
The Tasmanian school calendar is set by the Department of Education Tasmania. As an island state, Tasmania has distinct seasonal patterns, with cooler temperatures year-round compared to the mainland. This makes it an ideal summer escape from the heat, while winter brings opportunities for cosy retreats. Tasmania observes Eight Hours Day in March rather than Labour Day, and Recreation Day in November instead of Melbourne Cup Day.
Start: Wednesday 28 January 2026
End: Friday 3 April 2026
Duration: 66 days
Start: Tuesday 21 April 2026
End: Friday 26 June 2026
Duration: 67 days
Start: Monday 13 July 2026
End: Friday 18 September 2026
Duration: 68 days
Start: Monday 5 October 2026
End: Friday 18 December 2026
Duration: 75 days
Start: Saturday 20 December 2025
End: Tuesday 27 January 2026
Duration: 39 days
Start: Saturday 4 April 2026
End: Monday 20 April 2026
Duration: 17 days
Start: Saturday 27 June 2026
End: Sunday 12 July 2026
Duration: 16 days
Start: Saturday 19 September 2026
End: Sunday 4 October 2026
Duration: 16 days
Start: Saturday 19 December 2026
End: Monday 26 January 2027
Duration: 39 days
Tasmania is accessible by Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne (overnight crossing) or by flights to Hobart and Launceston. The ferry is popular with families bringing their own car - book well ahead for school holiday periods. Flying and hiring a car on arrival is often more time-efficient.
Hobart offers the famous Salamanca Market (Saturdays), Mount Wellington for panoramic views, and the quirky MONA museum (suitable for older children). Day trips include Port Arthur Historic Site, Bruny Island for wildlife and cheese, and the Tahune Airwalk through forest canopy. Richmond is a charming historic village nearby.
Tasmania's iconic mountain offers walks suitable for all abilities, from the accessible boardwalk around Dove Lake to challenging summit hikes. Wildlife including wombats, wallabies, and Tasmanian devils are commonly seen. Stay at Cradle Mountain Lodge or nearby for the full experience.
Home to the famous Wineglass Bay, Freycinet offers stunning coastal scenery. The lookout walk is manageable for families, while the beach descent is steeper. The friendly town of Coles Bay provides accommodation and supplies. Wildlife including wallabies and wombats are abundant.
Launceston features Cataract Gorge right in the city, with chairlift rides and walking trails. The Tamar Valley wine region is family-friendly with Platypus House and Seahorse World. Stanley in the northwest offers The Nut chairlift and penguin watching.
Tasmania is the only place to see Tasmanian devils in the wild. Wildlife parks including Bonorong and Trowunna offer close encounters. Little penguins can be seen at various locations including Bicheno and Low Head. Wombats are commonly seen at Cradle Mountain at dusk.
A car is essential in Tasmania - public transport is limited outside cities. Roads are generally good but often winding and narrower than mainland highways. Wildlife on roads is common, especially at dawn and dusk. Allow more time than GPS estimates for mountain roads.
Tasmania's weather is famously changeable - "four seasons in one day" is common. Pack layers regardless of season. Waterproof jackets are essential. Even summer days can turn cold quickly, especially in highland areas.
Tasmania offers everything from luxury lodges to camping. Book popular locations like Cradle Mountain and Freycinet well ahead for school holidays. Self-contained cottages suit families well. Many properties have wood fires for winter warmth.