Summertime is, predictably, peak tourist season in Launceston. The temperature doesn’t usually go beyond 23℃, so you can enjoy your summer holiday without the risk of a sunburn.

Big-ticket events are on Launceston’s summer calendar, including Festivale—a three-day mega celebration of food, drink and entertainment. It’s hailed as Tasmania’s premier summer event, drawing thousands of visitors every year.

Berries are ripe for the picking this time of year at Hillwood Berries, just 20 minutes from Launceston. December is the season for strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries, so pick them all. Add this to your fun-activity-with-the-kids list.

The Bridestowe Lavender Estate is an Insta-worthy spot—picture yourself strolling in a sea of purple and having it captured perfectly on camera. Time your visit for when the flowers are at their peak—from mid-December to mid-January. We recommend the lavender ice cream.

The fall months are quieter—the perfect time to explore Launceston without the crowds, especially with the cool, dry days and crisp nights.

Fancy an autumnal walk? The city center is a good place to start—beautifully restored colonial buildings, manicured public squares and well-tended parks inject some English charm into the city.

Drive through the Tamar Valley to sample some of the best sparkling wines in the world. The NV sparkling blanc de noir, produced by Moores Hill, is said to be especially outstanding.

Say hello to tiny penguins at Low Head Coastal Reserve, less than an hour from Launceston. Between March and October, up to 100 tiny penguins waddle ashore each night back to their burrows. Wear warm clothing and covered shoes.

Expect foggy mornings with temperatures dipping to a low of 3℃. July is the coldest month (and the cloudiest), though Launceston rarely receives snowfall. However, winter is an excellent time to visit as Tasmania’s events calendar is chock-a-block with mid-winter festivals and food and wine (and Tasmanian whisky) soirées.

If braving the chilly Tassie winter is not your idea of fun, cozy up in the comfort of the James Boag Brewery Bar, something of an institution among locals since it opened its doors more than 100 years ago. They offer brewery tours with guided tasting of the best lagers and ales.

Foodies, you’ll eat well in Launceston. Winter brings premium local ingredients like black truffles and Tasmanian scallops to the table. The city’s “winterlicious” program is a chance for you to eat your way around town, with lots of entertainment on the side.

Catch an after-dinner show at the Earl Arts Centre, an intimate performance space that offers film screenings, dance and theatre productions to complete your night.