City in Tasmania, Australia
Getting around Launceston
How to get around Launceston
The CBD and gorge are walkable; Metro buses cover the city. Hire a car for Cradle Mountain, Tamar Valley and the east coast.
Ways to get around Launceston
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Metro Tasmania bus | Free until 30 Jun 2027 | No fare or GreenCard needed on Metro buses until then; limited evenings and weekends |
| Uber and taxi | About 16–28 AUD for 5 km | Easy within the city |
| Hire car | About 60–120 AUD a day | Best for Cradle Mountain; drive on the left |
Ride-hailing apps in Launceston
A 5 km ride costs about A$16–28 ($11.1–19.5).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Uber | Operating since 2018; fewer drivers late at night |
- Taxis are metered and can be booked by phone; late-night weekends can be slow. Uber is easier than flagging a cab.
Arriving in Launceston
Launceston Airport (LST)
About 15–20 min to the CBD by taxi (35–40 AUD), Uber or airport shuttle (from 25 AUD).
Devonport (Spirit of Tasmania) (DPO)
Ferry from Melbourne arrives at Devonport; about 1 hour by bus or car to Launceston.
Driving and onward travel
- Driving: on the left. Visitors can drive on a valid foreign licence; carry an IDP or official English translation if it isn't in English.
- Onward travel in Australia: Distances are huge, so fly between capitals (Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar). Greyhound coaches run the east coast; long-distance trains are scenic but slow. Rent a car for the outback.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Launceston?
Yes. Apps that work here: Uber.
What's the best way to get around Launceston?
The CBD and gorge are walkable; Metro buses cover the city. Hire a car for Cradle Mountain, Tamar Valley and the east coast.
How do I get from the airport to Launceston?
About 15–20 min to the CBD by taxi (35–40 AUD), Uber or airport shuttle (from 25 AUD).
Is Launceston walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Launceston
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Sources
- Greyhound Australia
- Journey Beyond Rail (The Ghan, Indian Pacific)
- Transport for NSW (NSW TrainLink)
- Queensland Rail Travel
- Tourism Tasmania
- Launceston Airport
- Tasmanian Department of Health
- Metro Tasmania: free fares
- Launceston Airport: taxi, rideshare and shuttles
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.