Port Arthur is an absolute must-see if you’re in Tassie – it’s packed with history, beauty, and a fair share of spine-tingling stories. The old convict site is stunning with its sprawling grounds, ruins, and the most incredible backdrop of the Tasman Peninsula. But it’s not just a pretty spot; it’s also steeped in Australia’s darker history.

The guided tours are brilliant for bringing the place to life (I did the river cruise and it was worth it!). I You’ll hear all about the daily grind of convict life, the eerie stories of the penitentiary, and of course, the infamous murder that happened here in 1996. It’s an emotional piece of history that’s impossible to ignore, and the guides handle it with such respect and depth. If you’re keen to dig deeper, check out The Last Stop podcast before visiting. It’s packed with all the gritty details and will have your tummy turning in the best way – you’ll rock up to Port Arthur with chills already.

There’s also a harbour cruise included in your ticket, which takes you around the bay for some epic views and a closer look at the Isle of the Dead, the cemetery island. It’s a mix of beauty and eeriness that’s hard to describe but so worth experiencing!

Heads up – no pets allowed, so you’ll need to leave your furry mates behind for this one. The whole place is massive, so give yourself plenty of time to explore.