Why the Port Arthur Historic Site Is a Must-Visit attraction in Tasmania

Why the Port Arthur Historic Site Is a Must-Visit in Tasmania

Port Arthur Historic Site sits firmly on the ‘Must Visit’ list of attractions in Tasmania. Under Down Under offers several tour itineraries that visit Port Arthur Historic Site where you’ll roughly spend three hours exploring this incredible UNESCO recognised attraction. Let’s explain why we love including this in several of our small group multiday tours around Tasmania.

Set against a dramatic coastal backdrop on the Tasman Peninsula, the Port Arthur Historic Site is one of Tasmania’s most compelling destinations. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, it offers a deep and often haunting insight into Australia’s convict past—yet it’s also a place of natural beauty, reflection, and resilience. When we arrive, our guide will explain how to make the most of the attraction, and what time we are booked onto the harbour cruise. After that, you’re free to explore at your own pace, spending time at the points that interest you most.

What is it exactly? Port Arthur was a terrifying penal settlement during the 1800s, where mostly British Empire criminals were sent for punishment and reform. Today, the site preserves more than 30 historic buildings, ruins, and restored homes. Bring your own headphones and you can listen to a free audio tour (English language only – this takes around 40 mins) which bring to life the stories of hardship, perseverance, and human spirit. If not, there is a lot of written interpretation across this vast open-air museum.

Our Operations Manager, Wombat, recommends visiting the Old Church—its roof and windows lost to fire and time—now beautifully integrated into the landscape, framed by oak trees and overlooking a nearby eucalypt woodland visible from within its walls. Also, Smith-O’Brien’s Cottage offers a fascinating glimpse into the political nature of many convicts sent to Port Arthur from across the British Empire. Tasmania, being one of the furthest places from Britain, became a convenient place to exile revolutionaries, unionists, freedom fighters, and other dissenters the British hoped to silence. A visit to the cottage shows they didn’t always succeed. The beautiful yet sobering memorial garden and the nearby Isle of the Dead cemetery cruise also offer powerful moments of reflection.

But it’s not all dark. The grounds are picturesque, with sweeping lawns, heritage gardens, and views across the harbour. Whether you enjoy history, nature, or are simply curious, Port Arthur offers an experience that’s moving and memorable.

So, which of Under Down Under’s tours include Port Arthur Historic Site? You can join us on our Super 7 (7 Days, Original Tour), Tasmanian Discovery (6 days, Comfort Tour) or Ultimate Tasmania (10 days, Comfort Tour).