Downtown Hobart is the best place in Tasmania to shop. There is a fine blend of pavement, arcade and mall shopping. There are large department stores (such as Myer) and boutique shops. The centre of the action is Elizabeth Mall, a pedestrian precinct developed from Elizabeth Street. This is where I recommend you start your looking. If you’re not sure where to find a certain store or want additional information about shopping, an information booth is located here.
There are three further areas you need to explore. The Cat and Fiddle Arcade runs from Elizabeth Mall to Murray Street. Directly across from this exit is another large arcade called Centrepoint. A branch of the arcade runs through to Collins Street where Trafalgar Centre provides plenty of options for dedicated shoppers. Perhaps one of the most interesting shops here is Hempen Things where hemp products grown and made in Tasmania are available. The Tasmania Shop in Liverpool Street has a range of crafts in wood, ceramic, bronze, wines and fine foods. Normal trading hours in the city are 9am-5.30pm Monday to Saturday.
Other areas worth exploring are Salamanca Place, Battery Point and Sandy Bay. Salamanca place has a myriad of quality galleries and craft shops showcasing the works of many of Tasmania’s best artists and craftspeople. Wander around the street or explore the Salamanca Arts Centre and Salamanca Square to make your own discovery. Products made from Tasmanian Huon Pine are among the most popular.
Battery Point and Sandy Bay have their own boutiques and galleries. The Sidewalk Gallery and the Masterpiece Fine Art Gallery are two where you can pick up a piece of contemporary Tasmanian art. For something different check out the 9/11 Bottleshop in the Gasworks complex Macquarie Street. It has been voted the best liquor outlet in Australia.