MONA – Museum of Old and New Art

MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) is Hobart's world-famous, subterranean art museum that gleefully defies convention. Housed in a dramatic three-level bunker carved into a sandstone cliff on the Derwent River, MONA is as much an architectural feat as it is a provocative collection of ancient and contemporary works. With no labels, a free app as your guide, and a vibe that's part temple, part nightclub, this is not your typical day at the museum.

Highlights & What to See

• The collection itself – from ancient Egyptian mummies to James Turrell's light installations and a machine that turns excrement into art; expect the unexpected.
• O (theatre of the world) – a sensory overload of sound, fog, and a giant bronze skull; it's a permanent installation that is pure MONA.
• MONA's grounds – explore the vineyard, the Moorilla winery tasting room, and the sculpture garden with works by Cattelan and others.
• The O – the museum's bar and restaurant, serving excellent local produce and wine with knockout river views.
• MONA ROMA – a ferry ride from Hobart's waterfront that sets the scene before you even arrive; the journey is part of the experience.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least half a day – three to four hours is the bare minimum to see the main galleries, but you could easily spend a full day here, especially if you add lunch at The O, a wine tasting, and a wander through the grounds. Many visitors combine a morning at MONA with an afternoon back in Hobart, or vice versa. The MONA ferry from Brooke Street Pier runs regularly and makes a great day trip.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Salamanca Market – Hobart's iconic Saturday market, just a short walk from the ferry terminal; perfect for local crafts and food.
• Mount Wellington – for panoramic views over Hobart and the Derwent; a half-day trip from the city.
• Richmond – a historic Georgian village with a convict-built bridge and charming cafes, 30 minutes' drive from Hobart.
• Bruny Island – a day trip for wilderness, gourmet produce, and the famous Neck; ferries depart from Kettering.
• Port Arthur – a UNESCO World Heritage site and Tasmania's most significant convict settlement, about 1.5 hours' drive.

Please check official sources for current details.