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Ultimate 6-Day Adelaide Itinerary — The Best of South Australia’s Underrated Capital City and its Surrounds

This Adelaide itinerary will prove that the stereotype ‘ Adelaide is boring ‘, is a lie.

Australia is a travel destination we constantly find ourselves returning to. But after exploring all the different territories and major cities , we realised that we’ve yet to take a trip to the downest under — South Australia .

I didn’t know much about Adelaide aside from people telling me there’s “nothing to do there”. But after spending six days exploring Adelaide and its surroundings, I’ve discovered that this might be the most underrated city in Australia — and my favourite one!

This Adelaide itinerary will explore the best the region has to offer, both visually and gastronomically. Expect an artsy city, wildlife encounters, endless wine tastings and even a day trip to Kangaroo Island 🦘

Plus, it’s only a 6.5-hour direct flight from Singapore — but I’ll go into detail about that at the end 🌞

Read more: 23 Best Places to Visit in Australia Whether it’s Your First, Second or Nth Time

Day 1-2: Explore Adelaide City

Adelaide is affectionately known as the ’20-minute city’ amongst locals as everything is conveniently located within a 20-minute distance to and from the city centre — whether by foot, tram or car. Even the airport is just a 20-minute drive from the city centre!

Despite its small size, there are plenty of things to see and do in the city that cannot be conquered in a day. Checking out the museums on the North Terrace , shopping along Rundle Street or grabbing dinner at the swanky East End is just scratching the surface.

Get breakfast at Adelaide Central Market

Adelaide Central Market is one of the most vibrant spots in the city — an intersection of culture, fresh produce and food!

Opened in 1869, it’s one of the oldest markets in Australia. There are overflowing displays of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood and cheese — for an affordable rate! Even though I’m averse to cooking, I had the strong urge to buy everything just cause it looked so good.

Besides cooking ingredients, you can also find household essentials, restaurants, bakeries, flower shops and a bookshop there.

Cheese sampling during the food tour.

I went on a guided food tou r (AU$89/pax) to learn more about the market’s history and got to sample the best grapes, falafel, milk, pastrami and popcorn of my life 🤤 The fruits and milk are so sweet without added sugar!

Make sure to come to this tour on an empty stomach so you have room to try more things.

Fun fact: The market donates unsold produce and composts food waste as a pledge to be more sustainable!

Opening hours: Varies How to get there: 3min walk from Victoria Square ( Google Maps )

Marvel at the South Australia State Library’s Mortlock Chamber

Named one of the Most Beautiful Libraries in the World in 2014 , the Mortlock Chamber at the State Library of South Australia is every book lover’s dream.

With Victorian-style wooden shelves housing old books, an arched skylight and people studying and working on their laptops, it felt like stepping into the Hogwarts library from Harry Potter — simply magical 🥹

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: Varies How to get there: 20min walk from Adelaide Central Market ( Google Maps )

Visit the Art Gallery of South Australia

Stepping into the Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA) may feel disorienting upon entering cause of the sudden blend of European, Asian, Colonial, Aboriginal and Modern Art pieces in the same room — until you realise it’s genius.

While most museums categorise their exhibits into art periods, AGSA’s divide theirs into region and theme — mixing traditional and contemporary art to show how it relates across time. My favourite is the Australian Art Collection where they showcase many Aboriginal, Colonial and Australian pieces together to explore identity and belonging.

AGSA has a massive collection of over 47,000 works and I could see myself easily spending hours at the gallery fawning over their International Collection. Some famous artists you might recognise include Patricia Piccinini , Yayoi Kusama , Auguste Rodin , Bouguereau , Hokusai and more!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 5PM How to get there: 2min walk from the State Library of South Australia ( Google Maps )

Partake in Aussie brunch culture at Peter Rabbit

Peter Rabbit Cafe felt like a cottage garden in the English countryside. Nestled in Adelaide’s West End, the cafe is bursting with flowers and greenery.

While not directly associated with its namesake, fans of Beatrix Potter’s books would still feel nostalgic as if a little bunny in a suit is about to pop up from around a potted plant.

With a charming backdrop for brunch, I ordered an equally beautiful plate of Ricotta & Rye (AU$25) plus a side of smoked bacon (AU$7). I also got a cup of flat white (AU$4.80) and safe to say, Australia lives up to its coffee hype.

The cafe also has vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free dietary options available .

Cost: From AU$15/main Opening hours: 7:30AM – 3PM (Mon – Fri), 8AM – 3PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: 15min walk from Rundle Mall ( Google Maps )

Go on a walking tour in the city

While exploring a city alone has its merits, I always appreciated the details and tidbits only a local guide would know. As someone who tends to overlook the ordinary, walking tours are an underrated way to get to know a new place!

I went on a Jimmy C Street Art Tour to explore Adelaide through an artist’s lens. Jimmy C is based in London but he was raised in Adelaide and his works can be found scattered across the city. Our guide Katina was super informative and even shared about how some of his international works are sister pieces to those in Adelaide.

Jimmy C also works with local artists on murals and the painting techniques of Aboriginal art inspired this collaborative piece!

I may not have known who Jimmy C was before this tour, but I appreciated how he’s part of why the city is so vibrant.

Just walking around also made me realise that I’ll come across a painting at the side of the building every other block, even if it isn’t by Jimmy C.

Katina also hosts other walking tours like the Welcome to Adelaide tour for those more into history and heritage. Plus, nothing is better than a local’s recommendations for food and nightlife 🤭

Cost: From S$40/adult via Klook Tour timing: 2PM – 3:30PM (Mon – Sat) Meeting point: Jimmy C’s Opehalia piece, 22/26 Vardon Ave, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia ( Google Maps )

Visit Penfolds Magill Estate Cellar Door

Australia is known for its vineyards and Penfolds is one of the biggest household names.

This historic label was born on the doorstep of Adelaide and the estate is only a 15-minute drive from the city! The grounds are beautiful with rolling green patches and stunning stone buildings where they make the wine on site. I went on a tour to learn about the label’s history and checked out the underground drives lined with wooden barrels and pricey vintages!

The Ultimate Tasting Flight (AU$120) features 6 glasses that include bestsellers like the RWT, Bin 149, and Grange.

Penfolds hosts walk-in wine-tasting experiences with Daily Tasting Flights flights (AU$20/pax) where you try seven different glasses 🍷 Top up extra to try premium wines like the Grange and Bin 707.

For self-proclaimed wine connoisseurs, I recommend trying the Ultimate Penfolds Experience (~S$154/pax) , which includes the tour and the Ultimate Tasting Flight. I got to try some of their best wines like the Bin 149 and the famed Grange — ngl I was shocked to find out the Grange can retail up to S$1,000 but it genuinely lives up to the hype!

*Pro-tip: Get your Daily Tasting Flight waived by purchasing a bottle.

End your visit by grabbing a casual lunch at the Magill Estate Kitchen . They serve both brunch and lunch during the day and offer curated wine pairings with their menu. Sit outdoors to get a stellar view overlooking the vineyard.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 5PM How to get there: 14min drive from Vibe Hotel Adelaide ( Google Maps )

Read also : 11 Boujee Things to do in Australia to Add to Your Next Road Trip Itinerary

Check out Adelaide’s vibrant art scene

Adelaide is known endearingly as Australia’s festival city as domestic and international travellers flock here each season to support the thriving arts scene. My trip coincided with ‘ Mad March ‘, where summer events such as the Adelaide Festival , WOMADelaide and the Adelaide Fringe all happened at the same time in March!

I attended the first day of WOMADelaide, a festival celebrating music, performance art and dance at the Botanic Garden and was blown away by the scale and energy of it. Corrine Bailey Rae was the headliner! It’s like Coachella but without the influencer culture, just people living in the moment.

LIMBO – The Return is a dazzling show with acrobats, cabaret, fire-breathing, burlesque, jazz and more!

But the real gem is the Adelaide Fringe, which features acts that veer from the mainstream such as comedy, theatre, cabaret, circus, drag and more! Unfiltered, outrageous and unapologetic — it’s unlike anything in Singapore and I was lucky enough to catch three shows.

If you think that there’s ‘nothing to do in Australia at night’, I highly recommend timing your trip with the festivals in Adelaide . Malls and museums also hold special programmes and shops close later during the Fringe.

Day 3: Relax at Adelaide’s best beaches

Swim with wild dolphins.

Day 3 began early at the Glenelg Beach marina for the Temptation Dolphin cruise . After changing into a wetsuit and a quick safety briefing, we were off on our quest for dolphins.

And what a bucket list experience! Pods of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins swam up to our boat to surf the waves at the bow — and I had a front-row seat. As the boat was moving, it felt like I was swimming together metres behind them. Some even looked back in curiosity before diving down to hunt squids 🦑

There are two experiences included, the front swim and back swim. The former is on a group rotation basis while the latter can be done anytime. There’s no actual swimming involved in both experiences so this is great for children and weak swimmers.

The front swim is in a net that will support your body under the front of the boat while you submerge your head in the water. The back refers to two floating lines extended at the back of the boat, which you’ll hold onto — a warning though that the boat can be sailing at times!

Curious dolphins might come over to you in the back swim!

For those not keen on swimming, opt for the Dolphin Watch where you can spot the dolphins from the comfort of the same boat. The guides shared that dolphins are around year-round but the best time to see them is in November. You might even get to spot seals and penguins!

*Pro-tip: Top up an additional AU$25 for a photo and video package to get iPhone, GoPro and camera footage after the tour.

Cost: ~S$122/pax for Dolphin Swim, ~S$69/pax for Dolphin Watch Activity timing : 8AM (Sep – Apr) Meeting point: 1 Holdfast Promenade, Glenelg SA 5045, Australia ( Google Maps )

Chill at Moseley Beach Club

Nothing screams Australian summer like cocktails with a view at a beach club.

Mosely Beach Club sits at the side of the jetty at Glenelg Beach with an unobstructed view of the crystal blue ocean. FYI, it only operates during summer (Dec – Apr) with beanbags, day beds and sofas to soak in the good vibes and catch a tan 👙

Swimming with dolphins worked up my appetite so I ordered a Battered Flathead and Chips (AU$22) and a Pimm’s iced lemonade (AU$13), which was refreshing and helped beat the heat.

*Note: There’s a minimum spend for sun lounges, day beds and booths, but feel free to sit at the walk-in area with the beanbags and deck chairs!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 11AM – 11:30PM How to get there : 8min walk from Holdfast Promenade ( Google Maps )

Explore Glenelg’s Beach Town

Moseley Square is the epicentre of Glenelg and you’ll find visitors seeking refuge from the sun in many local businesses and cafes. There’s a tram stop in the middle of the square that’ll seamlessly connect you to and from the city centre.

Take the huge Ferris Wheel located between the square and jetty to get wicked views of both the city and the ocean 🎡

How to get there: 1min walk from the Moseley Beach Club ( Google Maps )

Have dinner at Henley Beach 

Henley Beach is one of Adelaide’s most popular beaches thanks to its pristine beach and crystal clear waters. The waters are so shallow, they only reach the knees even at the end of the jetty.

It’s a very laid-back beach, with locals sunbathing and swimming all day — I was tempted to join them. It’s also one of the best places in Adelaide to catch the sunset, so I recommend dropping by in the evening.

A beach day warrants a seafood dinner and HNLY , a Mediterranean restaurant, is just steps away from the beach. Located on the second floor, it has an outdoor sitting area with a nice view of the sea.

While it’s on the pricier end, the freshness and quality of the dishes made it worth it. I’m not a fan of raw fish but the kingfish carpaccio with nectarines (AU$25) has officially made me a convert — so buttery soft and flavourful!

Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there 16min drive from Moseley Square ( Google Maps )

Day 4: Explore Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf

After a day by the coast, I decided to head up to the Adelaide Hills — known for its lush valleys, charming villages, and the freshest produce! It’s only a ~30-minute drive from the CBD so I highly suggest adding it to your Adelaide itinerary.

I opted to go on a half-day bus tour that would take me from the city to the hills. The bus dropped me off at three different stops and gave us ~20min for the first two stops and ~1.5-hours for the last stop to independently explore them.

Get panoramic views from Mount Lofty Summit

Our first stop in the Adelaide Hills is Mount Lofty Summit , the highest point in Adelaide at 710m. Get a panoramic view of the city skyline, coastline and even Kangaroo Island (if you squint) from this lookout point!

If you have more time, consider hiking on one of their many bushwalking trails leading to the summit. The scenic trails have different difficulty levels with the shortest taking ~40min and the longest ~3.5 hours. Reward yourself with a refreshing drink at the Summit Cafe at the end of your hike.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 6AM – 11PM How to get there: 30min drive from Adelaide Central Bus Station ( Google Maps )

Pick strawberries at Beerenberg Farm

Adelaide Hills supplies some of the best produce in Australia, and Beerenberg Farm is famed for its juicy strawberries. Entry to the patch costs AU$5 and you can pluck as many strawberries as you want from AU$11.95/kg. There wasn’t enough time to pick strawberries, so I bought a box to try and it was as sweet as it looked 🍓

The shop also sells produce like jams, marmalades and other sauces you can get as souvenirs. Plus, there’s a cafe that serves up dessert and ice cream made with freshly picked strawberries — hearsay the strawberry smoothie is amazing!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 9AM – 5PM How to get there: 20min drive from Mount Lofty Summit ( Google Maps )

*Pro-tip: The best time to pick strawberries is between Nov – Apr.

Shop at Hahndorf Village

Founded by Lutheran settlers in 1838, stepping into Hahndorf Village felt like I’d teleported to the Bavarian countryside.

As the oldest surviving German settlement in Australia, there are German bakeries, pubs and artisan stores lining the picturesque main street. While it’s a fairly small town, it was nice to browse through vintage, souvenir and candy shops — in true European fashion.

The village is also one of the best places to photograph Autumn foliage.

Located on the main street, this is easily my favourite shop. The German Village Shop sells Christmas decorations and handcrafted Hahndorf souvenirs — there’s even an entire wall covered in Cuckoo Clocks and they go off now and then!

No need to defrost Mariah Carey, it’s Christmas all year long 🎄

How to get there: 5min drive from Beerenberg Farm ( Google Maps )

Beer tasting at Hahndorf Inn

Over 160 years old, the Hahndorf Inn has stood the test of time, run by generations of the Holmes family.

I was immediately greeted by stone walls and rustic wooden ceilings. With framed photographs of predecessors, flowing beer taps and diners digging into hearty schnitzels, it was clear that this inn is the heart of Hahndorf.

The inn sells tasting beer flights from AU$16.

The tour includes a voucher for an afternoon tea set or a tasting of three German beers. While I opted for an iced chai and apple strudel, beer enthusiasts would enjoy sampling the brews imported from Germany and Australia. Prost 🍻

Opening hours: 10:30AM – 8:30PM, closes at 8PM on Sun How to get there: 1min walk from the German Village Shop Hahndorf ( Google Maps )

Day 5: Day trip to Kangaroo Island

Getting to Cape Jervis: ~2hrs via bus Getting to Kangaroo Island:  ~50min via ferry

No trip to South Australia is complete without adding Kangaroo Island to your Adelaide itinerary. Known for its incredible wildlife, local produce and untouched nature landscapes, it’s usually better to stay a night or two for the full experience.

This time round, I booked a day tour to check out the hidden gems there. Located southwest of Adelaide, we had to take a bus from Central Bus Station at 6:45AM to Cape Jervis Ferry Terminal . Then it’s a 50-minute ferry ride to Kangaroo Island.

Meet Birds of Prey at Raptor Domain

The first stop was Raptors Domain , a conservation centre dedicated to protecting, educating and rehabilitating birds and reptiles on Kangaroo Island. We caught the morning free-flight Birds of Prey presentation, which featured rescued owls, tawny frogmouths, kookaburras, wedge-tailed eagles and more!

I don’t know much about birds so I was delighted to learn that some owls can see better than humans during the day! I even got to hold an owl when they were calling for volunteers 🦉

*Pro-tip: Sit in the first row for more chances to interact with the birds!

The presentation lasted an hour and the birds were pretty chill. There’s also an eagle hold experience (AU$30) available at the end of the show but my arms are not strong enough for that 😳

If you’re visiting the centre on your own, consider staying for the reptile presentation (AU$24/adult) that happens daily at 1PM.

Cost: AU$30/adult (included in the tour) Birds of Prey Presentation timings: 11:30AM, 2:30PM Opening hours: 11AM – 4PM How to get there: 1hr drive from Penneshaw SeaLink Ferry Terminal ( Google Maps )

Read also: Unique Australian Wildlife Encounters — 8 Places to Get Up Close with Wild Animals

Lunch at Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery

The next stop is lunch at Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery’s cafe. The tour includes a three-course meal but the cafe also offers cider tastings for AU$10/paddle and sells coffee and wines made on the island.

Plus there’s also a rescued joey, Star, who occasionally hops around the cafe and gift shop so try to find her to meet a kangaroo on Kangaroo Island 🌚

We then went on a tour around the distillery to learn more about how this family-run business makes eucalyptus oil — the entire place smelled like a spa shop. I even spotted an emu hiding in the shade on the grounds!

Our guide also shared that Kangaroo Island is rich in Eucalyptus trees as they are super resilient — regenerating quickly after a wildfire incident struck the island a few years ago.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 9AM – 4PM How to get there:  20min drive from Raptor Domain ( Google Maps )

Visit the stunning Pennington Bay

Pennington Bay offers a postcard-perfect view of Kangaroo Island’s untouched coastline.

The tour bus only stopped by the lookout point for us to snap some pictures, but this beach is actually popular amongst locals for surfing in June thanks to the powerful waves. Dolphins and whales can sometimes be seen from the shore so bring binoculars to spot them!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: 20min drive from Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery ( Google Maps )

Wine tasting at False Cape Wines

Kangaroo Island is also a wine region, so visit False Cape Wines for a wine-tasting sesh. At almost 60 acres, it’s the largest vineyard on the island.

We did a tasting while overlooking the lush green vines and tried eight different wines at their cellar door. The flavour profiles were pretty interesting — some peppery and even spicy! My favourite is the Fortified Shiraz which tasted like Christmas in a cup thanks to the brandy mix.

The cellar door is open for walk-ins and there are various wine flights available from AU$12!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 11AM – 5PM How to get there: 25min drive from Pennington Bay ( Google Maps )

Dinner with a sea view at Penneshaw

The final stop before catching the ferry back to the mainland was at Penneshaw War Memorial Park , where we had free time to grab dinner at our own expense. There were four options — Fire and Smoke , the Kiosk , Penneshaw Pub and a supermarket.

I elected to take away pizza from the Kiosk so I had more time to bask in the amazing ocean views from the park. I even found a small trail that leads to a boardwalk lookout point.

How to get there: 15min drive from False Cape Wines ( Google Maps )

Day 6: McLaren Vale and Adelaide City

Get lost in the d’arenberg cube.

The d’Arenberg Cube is the iconic symbol of the McLaren Vale wine region and is at the top of every Adelaide itinerary. It’s also the quirkiest cellar door I’ve ever been to in my life.

d’Arenberg is a family-owned label and the current owner designed the building and everything inside it. Sitting in the centre of a vineyard, the five-storey building is intentionally designed to look like a floating Rubik’s cube. Psst, it looks like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory on the inside!

The Cube features a Tasting Room, a restaurant, two different art exhibitions, and a private function area.

Wine tastings are held on the top floor where there are panoramic views of the rolling green hills of McLaren Vale. Given that d’Arenberg grows more than 25 grape varieties, sampling a wine flight (from AU$20/pax) is a great introduction to the historic label.

Not sure what to try? Leave it up to fate and spin the d’Arenberg wheel to find your wine — I got #37: The Athazagoraphobic Cat.

On the third floor, there’s a Salvadore Dalí exhibition that features over 25 authentic bronze sculptures and works. It’s the largest Dali collection in the Southern Hemisphere. Works by Picasso, Billich and Ted Johnson are also displayed in this exhibition.

There’s also another exhibition on the ground floor, the Alternate Realities Museum , which is the creative brainchild of the owner. It’s an interactive and immersive exhibition whereby every artwork, sculpture and room is designed by him — including the urinals #IYKYK

They are eccentric, to say the least…so expect the unexpected! It’s definitely the highlight of my visit to the Cube.

Entrance fee: AU$30/pax (incl. entry to the d’Arenberg Cube, the Alternate Realities Museum, the Salvador Dali exhibition and wine tasting)  Opening hours: 10:30AM – 4:30PM How to get there: 50min drive from Vibe Hotel Adelaide ( Google Maps )

Go shopping at Rundle Mall

I then headed back to the city to do some last-minute shopping at Rundle Mall . Contrary to its name, Rundle Mall is a long pedestrian street with many shops, supermarkets and shopping arcades. There are many sculptures iconic to Adelaide like the Malls Balls and Dali’s Triumphant Elephant along the street, plus the street buskers made the vibes 💯

If you’re wondering whether I raided the Kmart, Chemist Warehouse and Coles there — my wallet is still recovering.

Opening hours: 9AM – 5:30PM (Mon – Thu), 9AM – 9PM (Fri), 9AM – 5PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: 50min drive from the d’Arenberg Cube ( Google Maps )

Dinner at Daughter in Law

End the trip on a high with dinner at Daughter in Law , the most colourful restaurant on the East End.

It felt like a 1990s fever dream with flower garlands covering the ceiling, neon lights and Rasputin playing in the background. They say they serve “unauthentic Australian Indian cuisine” — so don’t expect the spiciness levels of Indian food in Singapore!

If you’re in a large group, we recommend getting the Feed Me Menu (AU$69/pax) to try a bit of everything. It comes with a variety of appetisers, curries, mains, rice, naan , papadum and dessert! Everything was saur good and surprisingly close to authenticity asides from the highly addictive Colonal Tso’s Cauliflower — it was more like Chinese sweet and sour sauce.

Cost:   From AU$18/dish Opening hours:  5PM – 9PM (Sun – Thu), 5PM – 10PM (Fri – Sat) How to get there:  11min walk from Rundle Mall ( Google Maps )

Where to stay in Adelaide

Vibe hotel adelaide.

Opened in March 2023, Vibe Hotel is one of the newest hotels in Adelaide’s CBD. The rooms are modern and new, with many amenities like bath salts and shower products. This made the stay feel elevated and luxurious!

The service at this hotel was also wonderful, with delicious mains like egg benedict served for breakfast instead of the usual buffet spread.

While it’s located on a quieter street, it’s still a convenient 10-minute walk to the East End and a 15-minute walk to Rundle Mall.

Cost : From ~S$300/night for an Urban Retreat Room King (up to 2pax) Address: 260 Flinders St, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia ( Google Maps )

ibis Adelaide

If you’re looking for something less pricey, ibis Adelaide is a budget-friendly option while still being in a prime location. Adjacent to Rundle Mall, the hotel is a 3-minute walk to supermarkets, arcades and bus stops.

While the rooms are simpler with fewer amenities, the floor-to-ceiling view of the city made waking up for sunrises worth it.

Cost: From ~S$150/night for a Superior Room, Queen Bed with City View (up to 2pax) Address: 122 Grenfell St, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia ( Google Maps )

Getting to Adelaide

Singapore Airlines is the only carrier that offers direct flights to Adelaide. There’s only one outbound flight per day (6.5 hours) and it’s an overnight flight — giving you a full day to explore after landing!

I spent most of the flight watching the latest Hollywood movies on their in-flight entertainment system while enjoying free cocktails. They also served a mid-flight snack on top of the meal service, so I was never hungry.

But the best part is the complimentary WiFi for KrisFlyer members . This is great for those who need to stay connected with family or work — I mainly used it to scroll social media 🙈

If we’ve convinced you to give Adelaide a shot, don’t miss this Singapore Airlines flight promo ! 🤩 All-in return fares to Adelaide on Economy Class from S$958 Sale period: From now to 22 April 2024 Outbound travel period: Between 6 August 2024 to 28 February 2025 (Selected periods only. Blackout periods apply.) 👉🏼 Learn more and book your flights

Getting around Adelaide

Public transport: Buses and trams operate every 10 – 15min. If you’re heading to the beach, trams are the cheapest and most convenient way to get there. Plus, there’s a free tram zone within the CBD!

Taxi or ride-hailing: As public transport only starts running more frequently after 7AM, take Uber or Didi for early tour reporting times. Some hotels also have taxi call buttons.

Self-drive: Renting a car is the best option for those who plan on spending more time outside of the city. It gives more flexibility and control over your Adelaide itinerary.

The ‘Adelaide-is-boring’ stereotype has officially been debunked 🎉

South Australia surprised me with its vibrant art scene, gorgeous nature views and friendly locals. It was heartwarming to see a region regard their local businesses, attractions and artists with so much support, inclusivity and passion. It’s truly one of the most underrated cities in Australia.

I’m already planning my next Adelaide itinerary to check out all the things I missed out on!

What’s a must-visit place in your Adelaide itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

This post was brought to you by the South Australian Tourism Commission and Singapore Airlines .

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48 Hours in Adelaide: The Perfect 2 Days in Adelaide Itinerary From a Local (2023)

Planning to spend 2 days in Adelaide? If you only have 48 hours in Adelaide or less, we have the perfect 2 day Adelaide itinerary and travel guide written by a local to make the most of your short visit. Read this travel blog for the best things to do, where to eat and stay in Adelaide and other essential insider travel tips.

2 Days in Adelaide Itinerary (2023)

For years, my home town of Adelaide has been bypassed from everybody from touring bands to adventurous backpackers. Nestled down at the bottom of Australia , it seemed we were just that bit far for most to reach, so instead we were skipped over in favour of more fashionable Sydney and Melbourne.

As Adelaideans, we began to wonder if there was something wrong with us and whether we would always be second fiddle to the eastern seaboard.

Then, it happened.

Adelaide was named one of Lonely Planet’s top cities to visit in 2014 . To celebrate, we gave out free coffee to everyone for 24 hours. Three years later, they declared our whole state one of the best regions to visit. All of a sudden, we began to hear accents from abroad on our trams and to see backpack-laden young people wandering our streets. Nearly falling over ourselves with excitement, we demanded to know how visitors were finding our home and sent them away with lists of recommendations of places to visit.

See, some places are burned by visitors, or at least so well-used to their presence the locals barely raise an eyebrow. Not Adelaide. It is our delight to share the things we’ve loved about our home for decades- the amazing, unspoiled beaches; the magnificent wine regions; the varied nightlife; the multicultural cuisine and the glorious outback – with those who are just hearing about us.

So, we’d love to welcome you to Adelaide. Not sure? Well, here’s my locals guide which can hopefully tempt you or give you inspiration for your upcoming trip. So, strap your walking shoes on and prepare your tummy, because we’re going to cover a lot of ground and flavours.

Adelaide Travel Tips: When to Go, How to Get Around and Where to Stay

A couple of lightning quick introductions to Adelaide. We’re a city of 1.5 million people, located on the coast at the very bottom of Australia, near the middle. The land that is now known as Adelaide, and most of the immediate surrounds, is Kaurna land. The Kaurna people were the traditional owners in the area, and have an enduring connection to the area of Adelaide and the plains that surround it. You’ll see many place names, such as the central square – Tarndanyangga (or Victoria Square) – that pay homage to this.

Adelaide does not have a tropical climate, which means (good news) we don’t get hot, sticky and uncomfortable in the summer but (bad news) it can get quite cold in the winter. If you want the quintessential sun-soaked Aussie experience, the summer months around November to March are ideal, however the state is beautiful and green in the winter months. February/March in particular is a great time to visit because there are many amazing festivals on during this time – so many that it is nicknamed ‘Mad March’. The best of all is the Adelaide Fringe, which is the second-largest open-air arts festival in the world and features performers of every creed, from spoken word poets to cabaret singers to comedians and contortionists.

The city is compact and divided into a very logical grid system. Staying anywhere within the city is very convenient, as pretty much everything is walkable and it is the most convenient place for catching public transport. If you want to be in the centre of the nightlife, staying around Tarndanyangga or Rundle Mall is very convenient, but noisy – if you’re looking for something more peaceful (but more of a walk), South Terrace or Hutt Street are good options. Here are some of the best choices for Airbnbs in Adelaide . But if you want a more exclusive and luxurious experience during your stay, check out the  Sequoia Lodge accommodation  that’s nestled in the highlands of Adelaide Hills.

Day 1 in Adelaide Itinerary: Adelaide & Glenelg

The Adelaide CBD is pretty compact, so it can easily be explored on foot. However, if you prefer, you can rent a bike or take the free tram between spots.

One of my absolute favourite things about Adelaide is that it is a very green city. I suggest starting your tour of Adelaide with a walk down to the  River Torrens,  admiring the pretty views and doing a bit of people-watching. You’ll also see the famous Adelaide paddleboats, and you can take one for a paddle if you’re game!

You can also join a guided kayaking tour or a river sightseeing cruise .

If you follow the river down towards East Terrace, you should eventually come to a bridge with many love padlocks. It’s a pretty photo, and also the hint to turn off and head back onto North Terrace via Kintore Avenue.

If you wander down this avenue, you’ll eventually pass the  Migration Museum . This is a free museum, and one of my favourites. It tells the story of more than two centuries of migration to Australia. In recent years, there’s been a push to add in more interactive exhibits and it’s a really fun place to spend forty-five minutes or so. After continuing along Kintore Avenue and then turning left, you’re on North Terrace, which is a cultural hub.  

Not far from the Migration Museum is the Adelaide Museum, Library and Art Gallery. Personally, I’d skip the Art Gallery, but make a stop in at the Library and ask the staff to point you to the  Mortlock  Wing , one of Adelaide’s hidden gems. It’s a stunning library that looks like it wouldn’t be out of place in Trinity College in Dublin or perhaps Harry Potter. At the  Adelaide Museum , which is also free, I’d stick to the bottom floor only, which is an excellent exhibit about Aboriginal Australians, as the upper floors are looking a little tired.  

Following the museum, head for the  Adelaide Botanic Gardens . These are beautiful, sprawling gardens that are filled with indigenous plants, flowers and shrubs. Every day there is a free guided tour of them at 10:30 am, which is well-worth doing. If you miss the tour, that’s OK – just go for a wander and don’t be afraid to stop and enjoy the peace and quiet!  

Following the tour of the Botanic Gardens,  Golden Boy  is a super-cool new Thai place that is a great (and quirky) place to stop for a delicious lunch across the road from the Botanic Gardens. Otherwise, there are lots of other restaurants to choose from along Rundle Street.

On the next street over from Rundle, Grenfell Street, you’ll find  Tandanya  Cultural Centre . This is the Aboriginal art gallery and performance space. It has many great exhibitions of modern and traditional Aboriginal art, as well as a gift shop which sells prints and beautiful souvenirs.  

From Tandanya, it is a little bit of a walk to the next stop, the amazing  Central Market!  I suggest walking back down along King William Street, where you can see some lovely old buildings including the Adelaide Town Hall and General Post Office. After you cross through Tardanyangga and turn right, you will be at the Central Market – the southern hemisphere’s largest undercover market. Here, you can discover an amazing range of different stalls selling fresh produce, cheeses, spreads, and more. Some of my favourite stalls include the Smelly Cheese Shop and Kangaroo Island Spirits.

These are my main highlights of Adelaide, although there are more attractions if you wish to stay in the city. Personally, however, I recommend catching the tram from Tardanyangga to Glenelg (about 30 minutes) to catch the afternoon buzz in this pretty coastal town. If it’s warm enough, you can even go for a swim!

Another great way to take in the atmosphere is to grab a drink from the Glenelg Life Saving Club, and watch the sunset from the balcony. You can also join a sunset catamaran cruise .

Adelaide is totally spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants – if you’re a foodie, you aren’t going to be disappointed. We have an amazing variety of cuisines from Afghan to Uyghur and everything in between. If you don’t mind a short taxi or Uber ride,  Parwana Afghan  on Henley Beach Road has been a favourite of mine for almost a decade and it never disappoints.

As for nightlife – you will not be disappointed in Adelaide. The city has dozens of amazing small bars to enjoy. Some of my favourites include  Hains & Co  (cute gin bar, super popular with locals) and Cantina Sociale  (a Spanish-themed wine bar), although pretty much everywhere on Peel Street is good too. If you’re looking for something more upbeat,  Casablabla  attracts an older, multicultural crowd whereas  Rocket  is a non-stop party popular amongst university students.

Day 2 in Adelaide Itinerary: Barossa Valley & Surrounds

I recommend trying not to end trying not to go  too  hard on Adelaide’s nightlife because for day two you have to do some wine tasting! Honestly – it would be criminal to leave Adelaide without having tried some of our world-famous wine (if I do say so myself).

First things first, I recommend having a good breakfast because wine tasting sneaks up on you. One of my favourite brunch places is  Crack Kitchen  on Franklin street, or a little bit further out,  the Loose Caboose is adorable in an old converted train station. Then, it’s time for the tasting.

Now, I’m going to declare my bias here and admit I grew up very close to the Barossa Valley Wine region, however I do honestly believe it is the best in the state. Ask any wine lover and they’ll probably recognise a few Barossa drops – including Jacob’s Creek, Wolf Blass or Rockfords. Despite the prestige of the Barossa, people are incredibly down to earth and friendly. Don’t be surprised if you find out that the woman in jeans and a baseball cap chatting to customers is actually a world-famous winemaker.

Most of all – don’t be afraid if you aren’t a wine expert. No one in the Barossa is snobby, and they’ll be happy to show you through the different types of wine to (hopefully) find what you love!

The only downside of the Barossa (or really, all of Adelaide’s wine regions) is that it is not accessible by public transport. Personally, if there is any way to rent a car so you have more freedom, I really recommend it as it will open up many more doors for you. However, this can be expensive, and, obviously, if self-driving, someone can’t do much tasting.

If you’re self-driving, you’ll have the ability to take the ’back way’ from Adelaide to the Barossa via the Adelaide Hills. The scenery is beautiful, and quite different than the rest of the city. There are two places you might want to stop in at – the  Gorge Wildlife Park , where you can hold a koala and get your photo taken, or the  Big Rocking Horse , which has a toy factory (great for kids) as well as several rescued kangaroos and two alpacas, who love  being fed.

If driving is not possible, I recommend doing a hop on hop off bus tour . With this option, you won’t be able to choose the stops, but having done it I can tell you they are all great quality.

You can also visit Barossa from Adelaide on this guided group tour which includes pickup.

Once you make it to the Barossa, there are literally dozens of wineries to choose from. After many, many trips to the Barossa, my recommendation is to start at  Charles Melton , which does incredible reds in a beautiful old farmhouse. The tastings are all seated around a large family dining table, which makes everything a very special experience. ‘Charlies’, as it is affectionately known, also has a great restaurant on its verandah, although personally I’d skip it in favour of  Maggie Beer’s  down the road. Maggie is a bit of a South Australian icon, and does great platters that you can enjoy overlooking the dam on her farm.

Not far from Maggie Beer’s is  Rockford’s Winery , one of the most celebrated wineries in Australia. Rockford’s Wine is famous all over the world, but you wouldn’t know it when you entered their humble antique farm house which features eclectic décor from football trophies to a taxidermized cat (apparently it was so well loved at the cellar door they had him stuffed after he passed from natural causes).

From Rockford’s, I suggest a stop by  David Franz Winery . It’s a much more modern place than the other two, and it is nice to get a taste of the ‘new’ Barossa. Plus, they have a gorgeous verandah where you can get platters and snacks, and do the tastings from the comfort of your deckchair overlooking the vineyard. I mean, is there a better way to spend the afternoon?

With that, your time in Adelaide is coming to a close. For dinner, there’s two options: you could stay in the Barossa, and try Ferment Asian, a brilliant Asian fusion restaurant with a focus on local, sustainable produce. Or, head back to the city to try out another of our great foodie hotspots: my pic to see off a great time in Adelaide would be Africola, an amazing South African restaurant that’s currently the talk of the town.

So, there you have it – my favourite things to do in my home city. I hope you’ve found this guide helpful and that Adelaide makes it onto your travel plans soon!

Author Bio: Georgie Mack is a proud Adelaidean who also loves budget travel, wine and history. She recently started blogging at https://www.journeywithgeorgie.com and also shares snaps of her adventures (and wine drinking) on Instagram and Facebook .

Read More: Have more than 2 days in Adelaide ? Check out this list of 35 things to do in Adelaide .

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Thanks for a great round up of what to do in Adelaide – I have only spent a little time there so far and would definitely be keen to go back and explore a lot more!

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Adelaide Itinerary

Your ultimate guide to all the best places to stay, things to do and what to see in Adelaide

25 SEP 2023

• 11 suggestions
• 2 minute read

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Adelaide Oval

Explore Adelaide with our official itinerary

Adelaide is bursting with culture, flavours, events and entertainment. Taste your way through world-famous wine regions just minutes away from the city, soak up the sun at picture-perfect city beaches and spend the night exploring a thriving restaurant and bar scene before retreating to one of the Adelaide's best hotels. Here's our guide to exploring Adelaide.

WHERE TO STAY

The newly opened  Sofitel  is the first internationally recognised five-star hotel in Adelaide. Superbly located in the heart of the CBD on Currie Street and just 15 minutes from  Adelaide Airport , the Sofitel is bringing a touch of French elegance to  South Australia  while still reflecting the culture and character unique to our boutique capital. From a chandelier custom-designed to reflect the River Torrens / Karrawirra Parri that carves a path through the centre of  Adelaide  to mosaic patterns throughout the building inspired by the stained glass found in holy windows across the city of churches. Splash out and book the presidential suite that boasts its own private dining room, walk-in robe and study, or opt for an overnight stay in one of their gorgeous and thoughtfully designed superior rooms. Start your day by diving into their indoor pool before retiring to their Club Millesime lounge or champagne bar after a day spent exploring the  Adelaide Hills  or  Barossa  regions. 

Mayfair Hotel

Just 15 minutes’ drive from Adelaide Airport lies  The Mayfair , Adelaide's premier five-star boutique hotel. Located in the heart of the city in a heritage-listed building, and on the doorstep of Adelaide’s small bars scene, The Mayfair is listed as one of the top hotels in Australia and New Zealand by Condé Nast Traveller and took home the award for Best Bed in Australia at the Gourmet Traveller 2018 Australian Hotel Awards. The Mayfair offers luxury accommodation and contemporary dining, as well as the stunning Hennessy Rooftop Bar. Little extras to make your stay memorable include luxury skincare products, rain showers and a premium complimentary minibar.

EOS at Sky City

Live it up in the lap of luxury at the brand new 5-star Eos at Skycity . Perched over the River Torrens with sweeping views beyond the city limits, EOS is perfectly positioned for city exploration. Stroll to Rundle Mall , the Botanic Gardens , Festival Centre, the Art Gallery , Adelaide Oval and Adelaide Central Markets , or explore laneways packed with bars and restaurants. That’s if you can tear yourself away from EOS. With a day spa, rooftop bar and restaurant, luxury suites and tailored services including an on-call cocktail mixologist, hair and makeup artist and personal trainer, EOS has your every need covered.

For more city stays, check out our guide to the best hotels in Adelaide .

WHERE TO EAT

One of the hottest tables in town,  Africola is best enjoyed when shared. Let the spices of Northern Africa unleash your adventurous spirit to try something wonderfully unfamiliar. Opt for the sumptuous four course chef’s selection or fill your table with plates like golden dahl, sprouted lentils, fried cauliflower, sardine with harissa, falafel and marinated eggplant. With chef Duncan Welgemoed’s raving fans and great value, Africola is one of the best restaurants in Adelaide so make sure you book ahead.

Step into Adelaide’s house of decadence –  Fugazzi . Undoubtedly one of Australia’s best pasta haunts, this New York-Italo inspired bar and dining room embodies the term moreish, from touches of velvet and marble to artistically curated cocktails and hand rolled duck cappelletti. Their menu is broken down into four segments – snacks, pasta, fire and sides - so be prepared to loosen your belt buckle. Try their version of Australiana cuisine with their Roman Vegemite finger, or go all out with a Wagyu Tomohawk.  

Restaurant Botanic 

Used to seeing the words “main course” and “entrée” on a menu? Well, do away with any preconceived notions of what a restaurant is before booking your ‘experience’ at  Restaurant Botanic . It is exactly that – an all-encompassing experience that they like to call ‘flavour combinations’ instead of traditional courses. With 20 combinations dished out as part of a curated tasting menu by chef Justin James, all your senses will be awoken – from the taste and smell of James’ unique creations to the sight and sounds of the surrounding lush gardens and even the feeling of the food in your fingers (forks get put to the side). Nestled amid Adelaide’s botanic gardens and inspired by the flora and fauna found in this inner-city oasis, you can expect to find things like green ants, finger limes, paperbark parsnip pie and bunya bunya branches on the menu. Be warned though – this is not a meal for those short on time. It is akin to booking an experience like any other tour, with a minimum dining experience lasting four hours.

For more dining inspiration, check out our guide to the best restaurants in Adelaide .

Bar hopping

With small speak-easy style bars tucked under the streets, swanky watering holes perched above the city skyline, laneways packed with cocktail lounges and quirky bars hidden behind unassuming walls, Adelaide's bar scene is booming. Sip your way around the laneways of Leigh St, Peel St and Gilbert Place or drink in the boozy goodness of Adelaide's east end. Our top spots for a tipple or two include Pink Moon Saloon, Leigh St Wine Room , Maybe Mae , Udaberri , NOLA , BRKLYN or Bar Peripheral . For more bar inspiration, check out our guide to the best hidden bars in Adelaide .

Adelaide Central Markets

For a quintessential Adelaide experience, step out of your hotel and into a thriving hub of food and culture at the  Adelaide Central Market . Here, countless authentic eateries offer a gastronomic gateway to Asia, while produce from all over South Australia including fruits, vegetables, cheeses, small goods, chocolate, honey and breads pack stalls manned by local producers. Grab breakfast, then embark on a guided tour , taking you through the market’s rich history, much-loved characters and tastes from all corners of the globe.

Roof Climb Adelaide Oval

Reach new heights on the Adelaide Oval Roof Climb at night. One of Australia’s most iconic stadiums, clamber over billowing rooftops and historic grandstands by sunset on a spectacular twilight tour. Snag the bests seats in the house and see the sun set from the best vantage point in Adelaide. Continue your Adelaide exploration with an environmentally friendly tour with EcoCaddy. Jump on-board one of their hybrid-electric rickshaws and get pedalled to any destination within the CBD, or let them show you around on a city highlights, street art or history tour.

Find more things to do in Adelaide here .

WHAT TO SEE

Beach sunsets.

South Australian skies put on a show come sundown when collages of blazing red, yellow and orange paint the sky in a sunset spectacular best appreciated beachside. And with so many incredible west-facing beaches in Adelaide, you’ll have front row seats on the sand to a fiery show-stopper as the sun slips behind the ocean. Jump on a tram just 20 minutes to Adelaide’s favourite city beach, Glenelg . Walk along the foreshore and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants dotting Jetty Road before kicking your shoes off and pulling up a seat at the bar without even taking your toes out the sand. Other spots to settle in seaside as the sunsets include Brighton, Henley Beach, Semaphore, Port Noarlunga and Grange.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens

Spend a day exploring South Australia’s inner-city oasis, the  Adelaide Botanic Garden . The sprawling Botanic Garden spans 50 hectares, featuring stunning architecture, majestic avenues and, of course, the famous wisteria arbour. Stop for lunch at the multi-award-winning , where you’ll dine on produce sourced from the surrounding gardens, under a heritage rotunda, overlooking ponds and lush greenery. Next door, you’ll find the National Wine Centre of Australia, home to more than 120 wines, and Adelaide Zoo.

Continue on to the Adelaide Hills

Venture just a little further and within minutes of the city arrive in the picture-book perfect Adelaide Hills. Start planning with our three-day Adelaide Hills itinerary.  

Staying longer? Discover even more things to do in Adelaide

Cant get enough of adelaide we can't fault you for wanting to stay longer. don't worry, there's still plenty to do if you're thinking about extending your stay. add these recommendations to your list and stay in vacay mode a little bit longer., the playford, ibis adelaide, crowne plaza adelaide, adelaide zoo, osteria oggi, peter rabbit, prohibition liquor co., roofclimb adelaide oval, peel street, kiin restaurant and bar, art gallery of south australia, let’s stay in touch.

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48 Hours in Adelaide – A 2 day Itinerary

Our 2 Day Itinerary for Adelaide is a comprehensive guide that will help you choose when best to visit the area, as well show you the must see attractions! Firstly, lets learn a little more about the city itself. 

Adelaide is the capital of South Australia and is separated into two main parts; Adelaide and North Adelaide. These areas are divided by the River Torrens.

Adelaide showcases a superb mix of landscapes. These include glorious sandy beaches, luscious woodlands, imposing mountainous areas, and of course, the city centre which is the beating heart of this vibrant Australian city. 

Adelaide is popular with tourists who want to embrace all things Australian and enjoy the sights and sounds of a fun and modern city, but on a slightly smaller scale than you would perhaps experience at the larger hubs like Sydney or Melbourne. 

Adelaide is a particularly great destination for lovers of the outdoors, as it is crammed with opportunities for adventure. You have an array of watersport options over on the coastal side of the city, while back on dry land there are vast national parks through which to hike or bike. 

In Adelaide, you can expect to experience four distinct seasons courtesy of the predominantly Mediterranean climate. This manifests as relatively mild winters and hot, dry summers.

Temperatures can reach 30oC in the height of summer. The popular opinion is that the best times to visit Adelaide as a tourist would be just out of high season, during late Spring or early Autumn.

This way you still get to enjoy really pleasant weather but without the high prices and huge crowds. If you only have two days in Adelaide it is important that you base yourself in the right area so that you can reach everything easily and conveniently. 

By far the most popular spot for tourists to stay in Adelaide is the Central Business District, otherwise know as the CBD.

A vibrant hub of activity day and night, the CBD is made up of imposing skyscrapers that tower over the city, modern architectural office buildings, and designer shops and restaurants.

Many of the most famous attractions are found in the CBD making it the most convenient location for tourists visiting the city. 

Glenelg is almost the polar opposite of the CBD in terms of atmosphere and the views it offers. Located just west of the centre of the city Glenelg boasts a stunning coastal position and you can enjoy a sea view from many of the hotels and Air Bnb’s here.

This is a calmer, more laid-back area of Adelaide, but the hustle and bustle of the heart of the city is only a few minutes away so you are never too far from the action. 

The area of North Adelaide is mainly residential suburbs and the ideal spot for tourists to base themselves if they wish to immerse themselves in the day-to-day lives of the locals. There are plenty of clean, green areas and many charming boutique shops and restaurants scattered about too. 

Read on as we show you our recommendations for the best way to spend two days in Adelaide. We show you how to get the best from the city, to eat at the best restaurants and to ensure that you dont leave without seeing all the main sights and attractions. 

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Table of Contents

Overview of 2 Days in Adelaide Itinerary

Day 1 in Adelaide

• Breakfast at My Kingdom for a Horse
• Browse at Adelaide Central Market
• Admire the Adelaide Botanic Garden
• Asian inspired lunch at Golden Boy
• Stroll around the Art Gallery of South Australia
• Super hero themed dinner at Chuck Wagon 175

Day 2 in Adelaide

• Devour a long brunch at Bloom
• Meet the animals at Cleland Wildlife Park
• Time for retail therapy with shopping on King William Street
• Enjoy a lavish dinner at 2KW
• Watch the sun set at Glenelg

Day 1 in Adelaide

Breakfast at my kingdom for a horse .

We have always been told that the best way to start the day, (or in this case 48 hours in Adelaide!)  is with a good hearty breakfast. My Kingdom for a Horse is an uber-popular, trendy breakfast spot in the heart of the city.

It opens its doors bright and early in the morning to serve your favorite breakfast dishes from around the globe. Plus there is copious amounts of  award-winning coffee!

When it comes to the food menu you may decide to go Spanish with the Huevos Rancheros, or maybe you’ll choose something Tunisian and go for the African delicacy of Shakshouka.

One thing for sure is that at the end of your meal, you will feel full, satisfied, and ready for a day of exploring and getting involved with all the best things to do in Adelaide!

Browse around Adelaide Central Market 

No trip to Adelaide would be complete without a visit to Adelaide Central Market . The market is impressive in size, with over 70 traders all operating together under one roof.

In fact, it is one of the biggest covered markets in the whole of the Southern Hemisphere. The market traders here predominantly sell fresh food produce.

It is a vibrant colourful display of baked goods, fruit and veg, seafood, sweet treats, and much more.

You can enjoy a leisurely stroll around, taking in the wonderful chaos, noise, and smells of the market. Perhaps you will pick up some scrumptious offerings too! 

Visit Adelaide Botanic Garden

It is hard to believe that Adelaide Botanic Garden is in the middle of a city. Fifty hectares of stunning, beautifully manicured gardens, woodland, breathtaking sculptures, and elegant architecture await you.

There’s a splendid variety of themed gardens to explore, each designed to represent a different biosphere or specific plant habitat!

It is the perfect place to connect with nature and you can take some time to enjoy being educated on a diverse and spectacular array of flowers, plants, and herbs. Be sure to snap some shots of the unique buildings on display too.

The Palm House is a particularly fascinating piece of architecture. It is a glasshouse from the Victorian era that was imported from Germany in the late 19th century and is spectacularly Insta-worthy!

Lunch at Golden Boy 

Golden Boy is a delightful authentic Asian restaurant that is a fantastic spot, not far from the Botanic Garden, where you can enjoy a well-earned lunch, and perhaps a cheeky glass of Australian vino.

Well known for its asian inspired flavors, friendly service, and excellent attention to detail, tables at the Golden Boy get booked quickly so be sure to book in advance! 

Art Gallery of South Australia

An afternoon of culture is in store for you as you spend an enjoyable few hours browsing the art, sculptures, and projects on display at the Art Gallery of South Australia . In addition to the permanent displays, there are also regular visitor exhibitions to observe.

There is a brilliant gift shop at the gallery too, with inspired souvenir ideas so you are sure to find the perfect gift for even the most difficult-to-please friend back home!

Superhero-themed dinner at Chuck Wagon 175

A fun superhero-themed meal at the Chuck Wagon 175 , located in the north of the city, is a great way to end your action-packed first day in Adelaide!

They serve generous portions of all your American favorites including huge burgers, fries, shakes, and ribs.

As you take your seat, you will find yourself surrounded by all sorts of superhero memorabilia and a super lively atmosphere. 

Day 2 in Adelaide

Brunch at bloom.

One of the most sought-after brunch spots in Adelaide is a trendy eatery called Bloom . After such a packed day of activities on your first day in Adelaide, a leisurely start to day two is probably on the cards so be sure to make sure you don’t book a table too early!

The brunch menu at Bloom is bursting with delicious delight. In fact the hardest thing will be deciding what to choose to eat!

The dishes on this extravagant brunch menu are delightfully indulgent and just the ticket to kick off day two of your Adelaide Itinerary.

The ambience here is bright and modern and the thing that really hsines through at Bloom is exceptional attention to detail throughout. 

Cleland Wildlife Park 

Cleland Wildlife Park , located in the stunning Adelaide Hills, is unique in many ways from other similar attractions. The animals live in what is as close to their natural habitat as possible.

They are completely adapted to park life meaning that they are super tame and friendly and guests are allowed the privilege of stroking and feeding them snacks.

You may have the chance to get up close and personal with kangaroos, wombats, and wallabies for that perfect photo op.

Regular keeper talks give the opportunity to learn more about each animal and ask questions too. 

Shopping on King William Street

A great way to spend the latter part of your short break or weekend in Adelaide is some serious retail therapy on King William Street and Rundle Mall.

This iconic street, named after King William IV, is packed full of popular shops, stores, and cafes.

You can shop for gifts, souvenirs, and authentic keepsakes from the area while taking in some stunning architecture along the way including St Peter’s Cathedral which is a prominent landmark along this picturesque boulevard. 

Dinner on the roof at 2KW

A really special way to spend the last part of your two-day itinerary in Adelaide is with dinner at 2KW , which is located on the rooftop of one of the buildings on King William Street.

This restaurant offers sensational views over the city and a fabulous fine dining menu. The head chef here showcases only the best, locally sourced ingredients in his theatrical food prep processes that include carving at the table and show-cooking.

The extensive wine list, made up of bottles from all the very best local wine regions , perfectly complements the cuisine. The atmosphere at 2KW is elegant and upmarket yet relaxed and comfortable. 

Watch the sunset 

Head on over to Glenelg as dusk approaches to witness the Adelaide skies put on the most theatrical of displays.

Sunsets in Southern Australia can usually be counted upon to be quite spectacular so either grab a private spot on the sand to watch the glorious fire coloured show.

Or perhaps you would prefer to take a seat in one of the beach side cocktail bars. Either way, watching the sun set in Adelaide is truly the perfect way to end your trip.

Adelaide Tour Ideas 

• Barossa Valley Wineries Tour with Tastings and Lunch from Adelaide

One of the best day trips from Adelaide has to be a Wine Tasting and Lunch tour to the Barossa Valley .

This full-day tour from the city gives you the opportunity to visit several different wineries, learn about the specific details of that grape, and then, of course, the all-important tasting! 

• Full-Day Tour in South Australia Highlights

This super popular tour is an opportunity for you to see all the most significant sights in the area in one well organised trip.

From wine tasting in the Mclaren Vale to paddling in the ocean at Glenelg this activity-packed tour will be a great chance for whistle stops at many main landmarks. 

• Kangaroo Island in a Day Tour from Adelaide

On this fabulous day trip to Kangaroo Island from Adelaide you will have the opportunity to see kangaroos, fur seals, and koala among many other amazing creatures.

This is the perfect trip for those who want to connect with local nature and wildlife and enjoy the stunning rural Australian landscape from land and sea. 

48 Hours in Adelaide – A 2 day Itinerary – conclusion

Adelaide may not be the biggest or most flamboyant of Australian main cities but it has plenty to offer all of its visitors including some fabulous attractions, world class eateries and of course the good old fashioned Australian hospitality.

There is so much to see and do in the wonderful city of Adelaide that you could easily spend a week there and be busy every day.

Equally, if you are careful with your time and you plan well then it is definitely possible to enjoy Adelaide in two days especially if you use our 2 day Itinerary for Adelaide as a guide.

Recommended tours in Adelaide

• Adelaide Hills Tour with River Murray Lunch Cruise
• Barossa Valley Via Hahndorf ( Historical German Village ) Inc Maggie Beers Farm
• Barossa Valley Hot Air Balloon Ride with Breakfast
• Hop-On Hop-Off Barossa Valley Wine Region Tour from Adelaide
• Seal Island Boat Tour from Victor Harbor
• Torrens River Cruise in Adelaide
• RoofClimb Adelaide Oval Experience
• Coorong 3.5-Hour Discovery Cruise

Read more about Adelaide:

• Where to stay in Adelaide
• Top 5  things to do in Adelaide
• Top 10  Places to Visit in South Australia
• 6 Best Winery Tours from Adelaide 
• Romantic Weekend In The Adelaide Hills

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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3 Day Adelaide Itinerary Without a Car: a local’s guide to Adelaide

Adelaide is a beautiful city and has been consistently ranked one of the most liveable cities in the world. It is known as a 20-minute city, where you can visit Adelaide’s stunning beaches and hills, all within a 20-minute drive.

Having lived in Adelaide for 10+ years, I believe 3-day is the minimum for visiting Adelaide. With a 3-day visit, you should have enough time to explore the beautiful Adelaide city, picturesque Adelaide Hills, and stunning Adelaide coastline.

Adelaide also offers an efficient and extensive public transport system with buses, trains, and trams. All these services can be accessed with one single Metro ticket or MetroCard.

With a convenient public transport system, you do not need a car to visit Adelaide. You can easily spend multiple days in and around Adelaide with only public transport services.

In this article, I will take you through a detailed and practical 3 Day Adelaide Itinerary to explore this charming city without a car.

If you are visiting Adelaide by car, this itinerary will also work for you. That simply means you will have more freedom to explore each attraction at a time that suits you.

3 Day Adelaide Itinerary without a car

Although Adelaide is smaller in comparison to many other Australian capital cities, you can have excellent food, wine, culture, art, event, and wildlife experiences, without ever stepping outside of its CBD. However, to get the most out of your 3-day visit to Adelaide, this itinerary will also take you to explore the famous Adelaide Hills and stunning Adelaide coastline.

Day 1: Adelaide CBD

Start your day with breakfast at the famous Peter Rabbit.

Their extensive menu offers a great vegetarian selection as well as non-vegetarian choices.

Bonus point & the biggest eye candy: cute rabbits to admire (real rabbits inside).

North Terrace

Take a casual stroll along North Terrace (eastward direction) after breakfast.

North Terrace is lined with a range of historically and culturally significant buildings. Along this walk, you will be walking past:

• First opened in 1856 & still operating as a train station today.
• Be sure to wander in to admire its impressive windows and high ceilings.
• Note: part of the station building is currently used by Adelaide Casino & SkyCity Adelaide, which you may also want to check out.
• East of Adelaide Railway Station

• It may not look spectacular from the outside, but be sure to check out its Mortlock Wing on the eastern end of this library.
• If I can only pick one building to visit on North Terrace, this is it!
• The 3-level open-plan Mortlock Chamber is like a scene from Harry Potter. Feel free to grab a chair and a book to enjoy some solitude while visiting this Victorian library.
• House a large collection of specimens and artefacts.
• Can be especially appealing for people interested in geology and Aboriginal culture.
• Can easily spend at least a couple of hours here.
• For art lovers, this is where you may want to visit.
• With a decent collection of art, you can easily spend an hour or two here.
• Guided tours are available twice a day (with a fee).
• A prestigious university and the third oldest university in Australia.
• You can find many historic buildings on this campus.

All these North Terrace attractions are free to visit, but you may not have time to explore all of them. I suggest choosing only one attraction for deeper exploration while having a quick walkthrough of the others.

Adelaide Botanic Garden

Towards the end of your walk along North Terrace, you will find the beautiful Adelaide Botanic Garden.

Adelaide Botanic Garden is an oasis in the middle of a buzzing city centre. It is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With a variety of plantations, it is also a great place to visit all year round.

Rundle Street to Rundle Mall

After lunch, you will slowly wander back to the city centre via Rundle Street and Rundle Mall.

Rundle Street and Rundle Mall is the heart of retail and entertainment in Adelaide. However, they are quite different in many ways.

Rundle Street

• On the eastern side of Pulteney Street
• Offers boutique stores with mostly higher-end brands.
• You can find many interesting restaurants and cafes around Rundle Street.

Rundle Mall

• On the western side of Pulteney Street
• A pedestrian-only street and a street mall
• Offers a large variety of shops and department stores
• You can find many budget-friendly food courts in Rundle Mall
• Where the famous Mall’s Balls (officially ‘The Spheres’) and the Rundle Mall Pigs (officially ‘A Day Out’) live

Adelaide Central Market

Take a stroll or catch a free tram along King William St to visit the Adelaide Central Market.

On your way to the central market, you will find the Adelaide Town Hall building on your left and the colonial era’s GPO (General Post Office) building on your right. At the southeastern corner of Victoria Square, you will also find the impressive St Francis Xavier’s Catholic Cathedral – worth a visit if you have the time.

Adelaide Central Market is a must-visit in Adelaide.

Over the years, Adelaide Central Market has transformed and developed into more than just a hub for fresh produce. In Adelaide Central Market, you can also find artisan bakeries, delicious cheese & wine stalls, organic products, thriving bars and cafes, and many more.

Adelaide Chinatown

Adjacent to Adelaide Central Market, you will find the booming Adelaide Chinatown.

In Adelaide Chinatown, you can find a range of international cuisines. There is also a variety of shops selling a wide selection of groceries from different regions in the world. Many of these stores also have longer trading hours than other shops in Adelaide, so it can be a great place for you to explore after dinner.

There is a huge selection of eateries around Adelaide Central Market and Adelaide Chinatown. Depending on your preference, there is a range of different cuisines to choose from. My favourites are:

• Argentinian : Gaucho’s Argentinian Restaurant – you can never go wrong with an Argentinian steak.
• Chao Chow – dry & soup base hotpot.
• Tasty Biang – best BiangBiang noodles & cold skin noodles in Adelaide.
• Ying Chow Chinese Restaurant – a restaurant that’s been around for years; specialises in stir-fries, can get very busy.
• Japanese : Wasai Japanese Kitchen – I loved their curries & their sushi was also great.
• Vietnamese : Thanh Thanh Vietnamese Restaurant – one of the best Pho in town.

After dinner, if your tummy still has room for it, make sure you check out some of the dessert options around here. My favourites are:

• Matcha House : for everything matcha related; my personal favourites are their Matcha Ice Cream Parfait and Matcha Panna Cotta, absolutely delicious; a must-visit if you like matcha.
• Meet Dessert : for a selection of icy cold desserts; they also offer 1L Mega Cup Milk Tea – very satisfying to drink.
• Gyoza Gyoza : offers a selection of soft serves (as well as dinner options); as a matcha lover, their matcha soft serve is what drives me there over and over again.
• L’Amour Patisserie : a cute patisserie that opens to 9 pm on most days; lovely decorations; cakes are not overly sweet (I personally do not like sweets much).

Mad March Events

If you are visiting Adelaide during Mad March (mid-February to late March), it may be worthwhile checking out some of the events around Adelaide.

The most popular ones are Adelaide Fringe Festival, WOMAD, and Clipsal 500.

Most of these events are spread out around Adelaide, which can be easily visited when staying in Adelaide CBD.

Day 2: Adelaide Hills & North Adelaide

The 2nd day of this itinerary starts with a trip to the remarkable Adelaide Hills and finishes with a relaxing stroll along the charming streets in North Adelaide.

For more detailed information on visiting the Adelaide Hills on a day trip from Adelaide, you may wish to also read this ‘ Adelaide Hills Day Trip & Free Things To Do ‘.

Mount Lofty Summit

Adelaide Hills is best known for its stunning nature, lush tree-lined streets, brilliant wineries, and mouth-watering German sausages. It is also home to the impressive Mount Lofty Summit.

You can hike to the Mount Lofty Summit from Waterfall Gully, but there are no direct bus services to Waterfall Gully. To make this trip more practical, you will need to catch a bus directly to the Mount Lofty Summit instead.

This bus ride from Adelaide to Mount Lofty Summit takes just under 1 hour. Alternatively, you can also use a rideshare service for around AUD30 from Adelaide CBD (average price at the time of writing this article – April 2022).

Mount Lofty Botanic Garden

Mount Lofty Botanic Garden is located on the eastern slope of Mount Lofty. It is a great place to reconnect with nature.

Mount Lofty Botanic Garden is a great place to visit all year round. I especially enjoy the views here during the Autumn months (March to June), when the trees are all turning into an array of gold and red. With its cooler climate, it is also a great place to visit in the hotter months (December to February).

Check out the delicious burgers from Crafers Bean Cafe in Crafers before catching a bus to Hahndorf.

Alternatively, you can check out the amazing food options in Hahndorf instead.

A less than half an hour’s bus ride from Crafers, you will arrive at Adelaide’s most famous German town, Hahndorf.

Hahndorf has a strong German heritage. Along your walk around Hahndorf, you will find a range of picturesque German-style buildings. Since this little town is a well-touristed area, you can also find a wide variety of shops selling interesting gifts and crafts.

Sitting in the heart of Adelaide Hills, Hahndorf is also in no short supply of fresh local produce and quality wine options.

Beerenberg Farm is by far my favourite place in Hahndorf & a must-visit in this area.

Handorf is famous for its German sausages. Multiple restaurants serve German sausages in Hahndorf. I have tried the German sausages in two popular restaurants in Hahndorf, but I did not find them as appetising as the sausages in Germany. Each to their own, I’ll let you decide for yourself.

Since Adelaide Hills is famous for its wines, you can also find many cellar doors around Hahndorf. If time allows, feel free to join a wine tasting as well.

North Adelaide

Once you have returned to the city, be sure to head towards North Adelaide along King William Street for some beautiful street and river views.

North Adelaide is a suburb north of Adelaide and only an easy 30-minute walk from Adelaide CBD. It is an affluent suburb with streets lined with picturesque restaurants, boutiques, and heritage architecture.

Along this walk, you will be walking past the beautiful Elder Park, peaceful River Torrens, famous Adelaide Oval, and breathtaking St Peter’s Cathedral.

If time allows, make sure you also take a casual stroll or a bike ride along the River Torrens to enjoy Adelaide from a different perspective. Paddle Boats are also available in Elder Park to cruise around River Torrens.

There is a wide range of restaurants to choose from in North Adelaide, especially near O’Connell Street and Melbourne Street. Most of these eateries are very well presented and provide amazing food experiences, so it is more a matter of personal preference.

My personal favourites for dinner are:

• Beyond India North Adelaide for a great selection of Indian food
• The Kentish Hotel for an excellent pub meal
• Himalayan Kitchen for tasty Nepalese food
• Yakitori Takumi for a cosy Japanese experience
• Krung Thep Thai for mouthwatering Thai food
• Marrakech Restaurant for an impressive Moroccan experience

For desserts:

• Bakery on O’Connell for some delicious baked goods & they open 24/7
• St Louis House of Fine Ice Cream and Deserts for a delicious ice cream

For late-night drinks:

• Stacked Social

Day 3: Hallet Cove Conservation Park & Brighton Beach / Glenelg Beach

Try out Coffee Branch on Leigh Street for an excellent coffee to start the day.

Hallett Cove Conservation Park

In addition to the stunning coastal views, Hallett Cove Conservation Park also provides a display of magnificent geological formations from the ice age (280 million years ago).

I suggest starting your walk from the Boatshed Cafe and follow the famous Hallett Cove Boardwalk for the best views and experience.

The Hallett Cove Boardwalk is a clifftop boardwalk overlooking the incredible St Vincent Gulf. Along this boardwalk, you will find an extensive display of Permian Glaciation on the cliff side. There is also a set of staircase to take you down the rocky oceanfront to explore this geological formation further.

You can complete a return walk in Hallett Cove Conservation Park within as little as 1 hour, but I suggest planning at least 2 hours to pace yourself and truly enjoy the breathtaking views.

Right next to Hallett Cove Conservation Park, you can join Boatshed Cafe for lunch.

Alternatively, you can also find many great cafes and restaurants near Brighton & Glenelg Beach.

Brighton Beach and/or Glenelg Beach

After visiting Hallett Cove, you can either take a short train ride to visit the beautiful Brighton Beach or take a combined train and bus ride to visit the famous Glenelg Beach.

Glenelg Beach is popular among both locals and tourists. It offers a soft sandy beach, stunning waterfront, heritage architecture, convenient location, and abundant shops and cafes.

Brighton Beach offers most of the things you can find from Glenelg Beach but on a smaller scale. Since it is not as well known to tourists, you do find much fewer people around Brighton Beach.

I do love the beautiful views from Glenelg Beach, but not how populated it usually is. So, Brighton Beach has always been my go-to place on those hot summer days.

If you are interested, you can also take a walk along the beach between Brighton and Glenelg to visit both of these beaches and everything in between. This walk takes only 1 hour (one way). There are also cafes and parks along the walk for you to sit down and relax.

For more information on choosing the best beach to visit in Adelaide, feel free to check out this: Best Adelaide Beach to Visit – a comparison of all beaches 1-hour from Adelaide .

Depending on your plans, you may wish to enjoy some beautiful sunset views near the bay before heading back to the city. If this is you, there are multiple places near Brighton and Glenelg for you to sample some delicious dinner.

If you are heading back to Adelaide CBD for dinner, you may wish to check out Leigh Street or Hutt Street for some dinner ideas.

Options for spending 4 to 6 Days in Adelaide without a car

If you have more than 3 days to spend in Adelaide and don’t mind joining guided tours, be sure to check out some of the day tours to visit the stunning country towns near Adelaide.

Day 4: Barossa Valley

Barossa Valley is well known for its big, bold Shiraz. You can find several high-profile, world-renowned wineries in this region, as well as many smaller wineries.

Most of these wineries offer cellar door tastings. Some of them also have adjacent restaurants/cafes for you to enjoy a delicious meal with a glass of paired wine.

In addition to the wines, Barossa Valley also offers an extraordinary view. Here, you can find picturesque vineyards, charming churches and stone cottages, and glorious chateaus.

Day 5 +/- Day 6: Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is the third-largest island in Australia. Being geologically isolated from the mainland, it offers a magnificent nature experience.

For more detailed information on Kangaroo Island, feel free to check out my articles on:

• Kangaroo Island 2 Day Road Trip Itinerary and Useful Tips
• Kangaroo Island Day Trip: a practical road trip itinerary

Day 6: Victor Harbor +/- McLaren Vale

Victor Harbor is just over an hour’s drive south of Adelaide.

As a beautiful coastal town, Victor Harbor is another popular attraction to visit in South Australia.

Along the drive to and/or from Victor Harbor from Adelaide, you can also visit another famous South Australian wine region, McLaren Vale .

Public Transport in Adelaide Metropolitan Area

Adelaide metro price.

Free public services are available on trams within Adelaide CBD and along Jetty Road, Glenelg. You can also catch the free city connector buses to get around Adelaide CBD (98A, 98C, 99A, 99C) and North Adelaide (98A, 98C).

Fares apply to all other transport services. They are the same across all buses, trains, and trams in Adelaide’s metropolitan area. However, they differ significantly depending on the time of the day you are travelling in & whether you are using a concession ticket.

The type of fares you may require is highly dependent on how many days you are travelling for, how often you are travelling each day, and when you are travelling.

Where to purchase MetroTicket and/or MetroCard

For visitors arriving in Adelaide by air, there is also a bus interchange in Adelaide Airport for purchasing and recharging a MetroCard.

If you wish to purchase a Visitor Metro Card, it is currently (April 2022) only available for purchase at Adelaide Railway Station (in the city).

From Adelaide Airport to Adelaide CBD

It is usually only a 15-minute drive between Adelaide Airport and Adelaide CBD. An Uber or Didi ride-share service will cost around AUD15-25 (at time of writing – April 2022), depending on the service you pick.

You can also commute between Adelaide Airport and Adelaide CBD by bus. J1 and J2 buses take only about 30-minutes to drive between Adelaide Airport and Adelaide CBD , which can be a very affordable and convenient option for many travellers. The fare is the same as all other public transport services in Adelaide.

Adelaide Metro Timetables

As can be expected, public transport services are generally less frequent on weekends and public holidays. There are also fewer services outside of peak hours. However, as long as you plan ahead, you are still able to visit the attractions on this itinerary with ease.

To plan your trip, you can use either Adelaide Metro’s Journey Planner or Google Maps. I have used both of them to plan my trips, and they both work well. However, I do find Google Maps offers more flexible options.

With Google Maps, it offers a combination of Adelaide Metro, ride-share, and walking options, which can work out much better in bringing you to where you need to be. If you are in an e-Scooter operating zone, it will even show you that option too.

Where to Stay when Visiting Adelaide

Since Adelaide CBD is a central hub for all Adelaide Metro services, it only makes sense to stay in the Adelaide city centre for this 3 Day Adelaide Itinerary.

Within Adelaide CBD, I highly suggest staying near the intersection of King William Street & Currie Street/Grenfell Street. Most of the public transport services are near this area, and there is also a great range of cafes, restaurants, and bars nearby.

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The Best 4-Day Adelaide Itinerary: A Local’s Guide

Kate’s Wanderlust contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my Disclosure Policy for more information. 

Are you looking for an exciting 4-day Adelaide itinerary? With four days to explore this vibrant city, you’ll have plenty of time to experience its unique culture, beautiful scenery, and exciting attractions. With wine-tasting tours in the Barossa Valley and breathtaking views from the Willunga Hill Lookout, it’s no surprise that Australia’s 5th largest city has been generating a lot of excitement. Here is the perfect guide to your 4 days of exploring everything Adelaide has to offer .

Get ready for a jam-packed itinerary that will make your four days in Adelaide filled with adventure!

🔍 Table of Contents

The 4-Day Adelaide Itinerary

In this four-day itinerary, we’ll guide you through some of the city’s best offerings, from exploring historic neighbourhoods and sampling local cuisine to discovering the natural wonders of the region.

So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful Australian city.

Day 1: Explore the city’s cultural attractions

Start your first day in Adelaide by exploring the city. Begin with a visit to the Adelaide Central Market, one of the largest fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere.

Here you can taste the best of South Australia’s produce, including cheese, meat, vegetables and seafood.

Next, visit the South Australian Museum, where you can learn about the natural history and culture of the region.

The museum is home to the largest collection of Aboriginal artifacts, fascinating fossils, minerals, and animals.

Take a stroll along North Terrace and admire the beautiful architecture of the city’s cultural institutions.

This includes the Art Gallery of South Australia, Parliament House and the State Library of South Australia.

The Art Gallery of South Australia houses a large collection of artworks including paintings by Australian masters like Sidney Nolan or Russell Drysdale.

Visit Adelaide Botanic Garden which is located on the North Terrace or take a stroll along Rundle Mall or head to Rundle Street in the East End, where you’ll find a plethora of restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Things to Do in Adelaide CBD

1. roofclimb adelaide oval.

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 150 positive reviews! 

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours

Opt for a unique excursion by climbing to the roof of Adelaide Oval! Before beginning, attend a safety briefing and put on your suit and harness.

Your guide will lead you across a link bridge to an open viewing deck, where you will have the opportunity to walk along a lean-out point that extends 164 feet (50 meters) above the Oval’s cricket field.

An amazing experience from start to finish. Our guide was great, and we felt very safe. As seniors, we hoped we could keep up, but had no problems. Luckily it was a cool day, as it might have been a bit harder if it was hot. We thought this was a highlight of our trip to Adelaide. -grahame (see more reviews)

Enjoy unparalleled views of Adelaide from this vantage point. With nine daily departure times available, you can easily schedule this experience into your day.

2. Cruise The River Torrens

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars   | ⏰  TOUR LENGTH: 40-50 minutes

The cruise will start by heading towards the Torrens River Weir Gate, passing by Adelaide Festival Centre, SAHMRI, and Adelaide Gaol while the captain provides commentary about the local area and wider South Australia for 30 minutes.

Views were beautiful and learnt some history of Adelaide. Staff were super friendly. Recommend to take a picnic to enjoy afterwards along the riverbank -michaela (see more reviews)

Upon arrival at Adelaide Zoo, passengers can choose to disembark and explore the zoo, Botanic Garden, and surrounding areas.

The last 15 minutes of the tour will be relaxed, offering the opportunity to ask questions, take photos with the crew, and receive suggestions on what to do and see after disembarking.

3. Adelaide Ghost Tour

⭐ RATING: 4 out of 5 stars – With more than 30 positive reviews! 

Experience the longest continuously operating gaol in Australia and immerse yourself in its dark history. Encounter the ghost of Governor Ashton, who allegedly had his body thrown through a window, learn about Sister Mary MacKillop’s connection with the gaol, and feel the presence of South Australia’s most infamous killer who still roams the halls.

Made some sort of contact using the investigation tools. After years of wondering, I truly believe last night I had an experience. Was a surreal experience. -sean (see more reviews)

The gaol has witnessed 45 hangings and has a burial site called Murderer’s Row, which is now home to more than 12 spirits. Your evening will consist of a guided ghost tour, where you will have the chance to communicate with the paranormal using investigation tools.

Day 2: Discover Adelaide’s food and wine scene

On day two, take a day trip to the Adelaide Hills, located just a short drive from the city.

The Adelaide Hills is recognized as one of Australia’s foremost wine regions , primarily due to its production of distinguished wines.

Specifically, the region is celebrated for producing notable varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

Start your day with a visit to the historic town of Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement.

Here you can stroll through the charming streets and sample German sausages, beers, and pastries. If you are not interested in wine, you can escape into nature at Cleland Wildlife Park located on the edge of Mount Lofty Ranges in the Adelaide Hills.

Here, you can get up close with many native Australian animals like dingos, emus and much more! There are daily shows featuring snakes and lizards plus guided tours by keepers who will share interesting facts about each species.

Things to Do in Adelaide Hills

1. hop-on hop-off tour.

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars – With more than 60 positive reviews! 

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours

Discover the flavours of the Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf with a full-day winery tour that allows you to hop on and off at your leisure.

Board a comfortable, climate-controlled bus and embark on a scenic journey through the hills, stopping at 8-10 wineries along the way.

Great tour for visiting the area. Easy pickup and drop offs. Driver also provided useful history and facts on the locations visited -michael (see more reviews)

The entire circuit takes approximately one hour to complete.

Take your time exploring the historic township of Hahndorf and indulge in wine and food tastings at any of the selected stops.

Throughout the day, sample specialty wines of the region, such as shiraz and rosé, while learning about their unique characteristics.

2. Cleland Wildlife Park Experience

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours and 30 minutes

Experience Australia’s iconic wildlife on a day trip from Adelaide to Cleland Wildlife Park in the Adelaide Hills.

Get up close and personal with kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies while under the supervision of knowledgeable staff.

Feed these friendly creatures and learn about their unique characteristics. Observe other fascinating animals such as wombats, emus, dingos, and Tasmanian devils.

After the wildlife park visit, head to the summit of Mt. Lofty for breathtaking panoramic views and photo opportunities.

A lovely day out had by all (group of 5) Family came over from Scotland & they got to see all our Aussie animals. Koalas, Emus, Kangaroos, Dingos etc & even two snakes! They also loved the views from Mt Lofty Summit. -valerie (see more reviews)

This small-group tour, limited to just 13 participants, ensures a personalized experience.

All entrance fees are included, and pickup and drop-off from Adelaide City hotels are provided for your convenience.

Don’t miss this chance to meet some of Australia’s most beloved native animals on this unforgettable tour.

Day 3: Beach Day Please!

On day three, head to the beach and soak up some sun. Adelaide has a number of beautiful beaches, including Glenelg, Semaphore, and Henley Beach.

Glenelg is the most popular beach and is easily accessible by tram from the city.

Here you can stroll along the Jetty Road shopping strip, take a dip in the ocean, or enjoy a drink at one of the beachfront bars.

For a quieter beach experience, head to Semaphore or Henley Beach. Semaphore is a family-friendly beach with a playground and picnic areas.

On the other hand, Henley Beach has a long jetty and a promenade with a range of restaurants and cafes.

Things to Do in Glenelg

1. sunset cruise.

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Take in the stunning sunset views of Adelaide’s coastline from the comfort of a catamaran on this relaxing cruise departing from Glenelg’s Marina Pier.

Enjoy a drink in your hand as you sail off into the horizon, admiring the golden waves as the sun sets over the ocean.

Great trip perfect hosts perfect timing great memories sunset was awesome drinks available on the cruise topped off a great evening -mark (see more reviews)

As darkness descends, the city skyline comes to life with twinkling lights, creating a beautiful backdrop for your return trip back to shore.

This twilight sightseeing tour offers a perfect opportunity to unwind and appreciate the scenic beauty of Adelaide’s coastline.

Wander through Glenelg’s Marina Pier, known for its waterside dining, before or after your cruise to complete your evening out.

2. Dolphin Cruise

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars – With more than 250 positive reviews! 

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours

Embark on a thrilling dolphin-spotting adventure on a 3.5-hour cruise from Glenelg, a charming seaside town located south of Adelaide.

Hop aboard a comfortable catamaran and sail across the tranquil waters of Holdfast Bay in search of the thousands of dolphins that call these waters their home.

Had a great time. The crew were well organised, knowledgeable and friendly. It was amazing seeing pods of dolphins up close in their natural habitat 👍 -janet (see more reviews)

With onboard commentary and a safety briefing, you’ll have all the information you need to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Wetsuits, snorkels, masks, and other equipment are provided to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness the playful antics of wild dolphins up close!

Day 4: Explore the Fleurieu Peninsula

On your last day, take a day trip to the Fleurieu Peninsula – a stunning region of a rugged coastline, rolling hills, and vineyards.

Begin your day by visiting the McLaren Vale wine region, known for producing some of Australia’s best Shiraz wines.

The region is home to over 80 cellar doors, making it a wine-lovers paradise.

Next, head to the seaside town of Port Elliot, where you can explore the local beaches, visit the historic railway station, and stroll along the coastal walk.

Finish your day with a visit to the charming town of Willunga which has a thriving food scene.

Held every Saturday morning, the Farmer’s Market is a great place to sample the region’s fresh produce.

Things to Do in Mclaren Vale

1. wine blending.

⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars – With more than 15 positive reviews! 

⏰ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour and 30 minutes

At d’Arenberg winery in McLaren Vale, learn how to blend wine during a class.

You’ll have the opportunity to choose from various wines and create your unique blend, with the guidance of an expert staff member who will help you balance the flavours.

Our facilitator, Kim, was knowledgeable, fun, complimentary and generally made the blending experience fun! Who knew how hard it would be to blend three nice wines into one great wine? -rosemary (see more reviews)

At the end of the 90-minute session, take home a bottle of your blended wine to share with friends.

Discover the art of wine blending and create your unique wine blend during the class. Bring home a bottle of your wine creation.

2. Gin Masterclass

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars – With more than 5 positive reviews! 

Experience the Premium Gin Masterclass at the scenic Never Never Distilling Co. distillery door located in McLaren Vale, South Australia.

This fully-guided tour and tasting experience is led by one of our expert gin connoisseurs.

What an incredible experience learning about these amazing Gins!!! Delicious drinks with friendly knowledgable service. And THAT VIEW!!! What a beautfiul part of the world. -Tripadvisor reviewer (see more reviews)

Discover the rich history of our brand and embark on a personalized tour of our production facility where our Triple Juniper Gin is crafted.

Immerse yourself in a detailed tasting of our core range of products and indulge in a sampling of seasonal releases expertly crafted by our skilled bar team.

As a special treat, you get to take home an exclusive Never Never Distilling Co. goody bag valued at $70.

Where to Stay in Adelaide?

We’ll highlight some of the best areas to stay in Adelaide based on your interests and needs, whether you’re looking for a central location, a beachside retreat, or a peaceful oasis.

So read on and discover the perfect place to rest your head during your stay in this beautiful city.

1. The Franklin Boutique Hotel

• ⭐ Rating: 8.8 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Location, mini bar
• 🏨 Check Rates & Availability on Booking.com

For those seeking a complete experience, The Franklin Hotel, established in 1855, is a perfect choice.

This beautiful establishment consists of a charming pub on the ground floor, and a small boutique hotel on the upper level, offering guests the best of both worlds.

The room was beautiful and spacious, and the staff were extremely friendly and helpful. -ariane (see more reviews)

The Franklin Boutique Hotel Adelaide is situated in the heart of the city, providing guests with free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a bar.

Upon arrival, guests are offered complimentary snacks in their rooms. Each room is equipped with a smart TV and a Nespresso coffee machine.

Located across from the bus terminal, Franklin Hotel is just an eight-minute drive from the Rundle Mall shopping precinct.

The Art Gallery of South Australia and Adelaide Zoo are both within a 15-minute drive.

Looking for luxury accommodations? Check out my article on the 9 Best Luxury Hotels in Adelaide.

2. Miller Apartments

• ⭐ Rating: 8.6 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Location, family rooms, 24-hour front desk

Located just a few meters from Adelaide’s renowned Rundle Mall, the award-winning Miller Apartments offer stylish and fully self-contained accommodation, along with friendly service.

Guests can enjoy unlimited free WiFi and a range of amenities, including fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, cable TV, writing desks, and individually controlled air conditioning.

Location, location location. We were able to walk to Rundle mall, Sky city and bus and tram stops to visit many attractions including Adelaide fringe festival, Adelaide oval and art Gallery. -christine (see more reviews)

The apartments feature a well-equipped fitness room and secure on-site parking. For added convenience, daily apartment servicing is provided.

The apartments are situated for exploring Adelaide’s notable attractions like Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Convention Centre and Rundle Mall.

3. Adelaide Rockford

• ⭐ Rating: 8.2 out of 10
• 🏆 Known for: Location, outdoor swimming pool, good breakfast

Adelaide Rockford is situated in the heart of Adelaide, just 300 meters from the Adelaide Convention Centre.

The property offers guests a range of amenities, including express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi throughout the property, and a shared lounge.

Loved the location so close to everything. Rooms were huge and lots of room to relax. Staff were very friendly and helpful. -michelle (see more reviews)

All guest rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk.

Some rooms feature a kitchen with a dishwasher, microwave, and stovetop. All rooms have a private bathroom with free toiletries and bed linen provided. Adelaide Rockford is conveniently located near popular attractions, including the Art Gallery of South Australia, Rundle Mall, and the Beehive Corner Building.

The nearest airport is Adelaide Airport, just 5 km from the hotel.

Adelaide Itinerary FAQs

What is the best month to visit adelaide.

The summer months of December to February are the peak season in Adelaide, with warm and sunny weather perfect for outdoor activities like visiting the beach, cycling, or exploring the city’s parklands.

If you prefer cooler temperatures, then the months of March to May and September to November are great options.

Is Glenelg worth a visit?

Yes, Glenelg is definitely worth a visit!

It is known for its beautiful beach, historic buildings, lively cafes and restaurants, and a wide range of attractions that cater to all ages and interests.

Conclusion: 4 Days Adelaide Itinerary

Adelaide is a fantastic destination with a rich cultural heritage, delicious food and wine scene, and stunning natural beauty. This 4-day itinerary offers a taste of everything that Adelaide and its surrounding regions have to offer, from exploring the city’s museums and markets to tasting the best of South Australian wine and food.

With its diverse attractions and welcoming atmosphere, Adelaide is a must-visit destination for any traveller.

Read More About Adelaide:

Meet Kate. She's been exploring Australia since 2018, living in different states and soaking up all it has to offer. Australia is her main focus, but she's also had some great trips abroad. Follow along to get top tips and discover hidden spots, both in Australia and beyond.

The 36 best views, scenic lookouts, and viewpoints in Adelaide

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1 Adelaide Botanic Garden

2 Adelaide Zoo

3 Adelaide Oval

4 mount lofty botanic garden, 5 rundle mall.

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6 Art Gallery of South Australia

7 south australian museum, 8 cleland wildlife park, 9 state library of south australia, 10 adelaide himeji garden, 11 glenelg beach, 12 beerenberg farm, 13 migration museum, 14 skycity adelaide, 15 adelaide gaol.

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16 Botanic Park

17 chinatown adelaide south australia inc., 18 the beachouse, 19 carrick hill, 20 st peter's cathedral, 21 henley square, 22 victoria square tarntanyangga, 23 morialta conservation park, 24 k1 wines, 25 wittunga botanic garden.

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26 Cleland National Park

27 bicentennial conservatory, 28 onkaparinga river national park, 29 port willunga beach, 30 belair national park, 31 mount lofty, 32 maslin beach, 33 mount osmond reserve, 34 waterfall gully adelaide hills, 35 long ridge lookout.

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36 Eagles Nest Lookout

Top searches in adelaide, popular road trips from adelaide, what's the weather like in adelaide.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Adelaide for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Adelaide in January
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All road trips from Adelaide

• Adelaide to Melbourne drive
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• Adelaide to the Gold Coast drive
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• Adelaide to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park drive
• Adelaide to Halls Gap drive
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• Adelaide to Clare drive
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• Adelaide to Port Macquarie drive
• Adelaide to Strahan drive
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Explore nearby places

• West Torrens
• Walkerville
• Campbelltown
• Charles Sturt
• Gepps Cross

All related maps of Adelaide

• Map of Adelaide
• Map of Burnside
• Map of Kent Town
• Map of Parkside
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• Map of Stepney
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• Map of West Beach
• Map of Newton
• Map of Gepps Cross
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• Map of Woodforde
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• Map of Marion

Adelaide throughout the year

• Adelaide in January
• Adelaide in February
• Adelaide in March
• Adelaide in April
• Adelaide in May
• Adelaide in June
• Adelaide in July
• Adelaide in August
• Adelaide in September
• Adelaide in October
• Adelaide in November
• Adelaide in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Adelaide?

Get inspired for your trip to Adelaide with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Adelaide Itinerary
• 2-Day Adelaide Itinerary
• 3-Day Adelaide Itinerary
• 4-Day Adelaide Itinerary
• 5-Day Adelaide Itinerary

Best attractions in nearby cities

• Top things to do and attractions in Glenelg
• Top things to do and attractions in Charles Sturt

Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Glenelg
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Charles Sturt

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Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens, Adelaide Hills, South Australia © Sam Williams

Top 5 day trips around Adelaide

From wine tasting and wombats to beaches and river journeys, take some memorable day trips from Adelaide.

By Marc Llewellyn

Journey north, east or south from Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, and you will soon be tasting amazing wines, eating delicious local food, enjoying breathtaking nature and encountering native Australian wildlife.

Adelaide Hills

Penfolds Magill Estate Kitchen, Adelaide Hills, South Australia © Adam Bruzzone, South Australian Tourism Commission

Where: A 30-minute drive east of Adelaide city centre.

The Adelaide Hills is a beautiful area of cool-climate countryside marked by gently rolling hills, historic villages, country roads and neat rows of grapevines. Start the day with breakfast at  The Summit Café  on top of Mount Lofty, which has astonishing views of Adelaide. From here, wind your way through the  Adelaide Hills  to  Cleland Wildlife Park , where you can adore the resident koalas and wander among kangaroos, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. Next, head to the heritage village of  Hahndorf , established by German settlers in 1839, and explore galleries, gift shops, and a delicatessen selling German-style produce. About 50 wineries offer wine tasting in the area, including  Penfolds Magill Estate , home of Australia’s most prized wine, the famous Penfolds Grange. At  The Lane Vineyard  you can linger over lunch with views of the vines. For a taste of something different, visit Ambleside Distillery and savour gin cocktails on the timber deck overlooking the Adelaide Hills. Finish the day with a stroll through the Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens , equally as spectacular in spring as in winter. 

Fleurieu Peninsula and McLaren Vale

Did you know?

Each level of the Cube has a different sensory experience and the ground floor houses an Alternate Realities Museum.

Where:  40 kilometres (25 miles) south of Adelaide. 

Named after a French explorer and ocean scientist who died in 1810, the  Fleurieu Peninsula  is known for its surf beaches, pleasant harbour towns, and a clutch of wineries in McLaren Vale.  Popular activities include fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving and beach walking. The historic river port town of Goolwa is where Australia's longest river, the Murray, meets the sea. Explore the sand dunes and lagoons that make up Coorong National Park on a tour with  Cruise the Coorong  or  Spirit of the Coorong .  Victor Harbor , about a 20-minute drive from Goolwa, has a fabulous beach and nearby islands with seals and penguins . Picturesque McLaren Vale is home to stand-out wineries including the wildly unique d'Arenberg Cube. Do a tasting at the winery and stay on for a lazy lunch at d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant.

Clare Valley

Sevenhill Cellars, Clare Valley, South Australia © South Australian Tourism Commission

A 32-kilometre (20-mile) walking and cycling track, the  Riesling Trail , connects Clare Valley towns, restaurants and wineries via a converted railway line. 

Where: About 100 kilometres (62 miles) north of Adelaide. 

One of Australia’s oldest wine regions, the  Clare Valley  is a cluster of villages and wineries nestled in a valley of farmland and vines. Taste wines at more than 30 cellar doors, many of them still housed in old stone cottages and farm sheds. The oldest winery around here is  Sevenhill Cellars , founded by Jesuit priests in 1851. After tasting wines at the cellar door you can explore the Winery Museum and the original underground wine storage cellar. Explore grand homesteads from the 1800s, including  Martindale Hall  and  Bungaree Station . Have lunch in the beer garden at the  Sevenhill Hotel , just south of the town of Clare. Later, take a self-guided tour of the historic former copper mining town of  Burra , in the Bald Hills Range, east of the valley. With a key from the visitor centre you can delve into nine locked sites, including a gaol, an underground brewery and the main mining area, the Monster Mine.

Blending experience at Jacob's Creek, Barossa Valley, South Australia © John Montesi

Where: Just over an hour north-east of the city.

Arguably Australia’s most famous wine region, the  Barossa  (or the Barossa Valley, as it’s also known) is a patchwork of vineyards and farmland interspersed with pretty historic villages and towns. Some places, such as Krondorf, have a Germanic feel to them thanks to early settlers from Silesia and Prussia. Look out for Lutheran church spires. Artisan food producers are common around here, and the food is almost as famous as the wine. There are more than 150 wineries in the Barossa and about 80 cellar doors. Don't miss  Seppeltsfield Wines  and the  Jacob's Creek Visitor Centre . Seppeltsfield Wines offers plenty of wine experiences, including the chance to taste tawny fortified wine made the year you were born, straight from the barrel. At Jacob's Creek , try your hand at winemaking in a dynamic blend-your-own experience . Produce your perfect wine based on your preferences, then bring the bottle home to enjoy.

Australia's best wine regions

The Murray River

Pretoria Hotel, Murray River, South Australia © Adam Bruzzone, South Australian Tourism Commission

Where:  Drive east from Adelaide for 98 kilometres (61 miles) and you come to the historic river port town of Mannum. 

The longest river in Australia, the mighty Murray begins its journey in the Australian Alps and flows for 2,508 kilometres (1,558 miles) until it empties into the ocean at Lake Alexandrina in South Australia. In Mannum, Have a drink or lunch on the balcony of the  Pretoria Hotel  pub and enjoy uninterrupted river views. The  PS Murray Princess , the largest inland paddle-steamer in the Southern Hemisphere, offers multi-day cruises from Mannum. For a historical slice of life on the river, drop into the  Mannum Dock Museum  and clamber around the PS Marion, a restored steamer built in 1897. Alternatively, head south-east from Adelaide to the Fleurieu Peninsula, home of the Murray Mouth, where the river empties into the sea through a coastal sand dune system that teems with waterbirds.

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Things to Do in Adelaide, Australia - Adelaide Attractions

Things to do in adelaide.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

31. Paracombe Premium Perry

32. Town Hall

33. Adelaide Convention Centre

34. Chinatown

35. Parliament House

36. The Ghan

37. JamFactory

38. The Mall's Balls Statue

40. West Beach

41. Cleland Conservation Park

42. Bonython Park

43. Elder Park

44. Rundle Street East

45. West Terrace Cemetery

46. Australian Space Discovery Centre

47. Woodhouse Adventure Park

48. Brownhill Creek Recreation Park

49. The University of Adelaide

50. Unique Opal Mine Pty Ltd

51. Uleybury Wines

52. Prohibition Liquor Co

53. Veale Gardens

54. Southern Flinders Ranges Experience with Lunch

55. Great Southern

56. Mengler Hill

57. The Parade Norwood

58. Victoria Square/ Tarntanyangga

59. Gilles Street Market

60. SkyCity Adelaide

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Adelaide

9 BEST Places to Visit in Adelaide (2024)

The vibrant capital of South Australia, Adelaide is famous for never having been a convict city; it was founded and settled entirely by free persons. It offers the best of what you would expect from any large Australian city: great beaches, excellent shopping, eye-catching architecture, delicious cuisine, and a lively night scene. Furthermore, visitors can also enjoy easy access to lush wine regions in the wider area.

With many attractions spread over a fairly large area and limited public transportation outside of the city centre, planning an Adelaide itinerary can be difficult. Many places of interest are fairly far from each other.

No worries! Our expert team of travel writers has compiled this excellent list of the best places to visit in Adelaide to make planning your trip a whole lot easier. There’s something to suit different preferences and travelling styles too.

We think it’s only fair to warn you, though: some of these best places to visit in Adelaide are all but certain to blow you away!

NEED A PLACE QUICK? HERE’S THE BEST NEIGHBORHOOD IN ADELAIDE:

These are the best places to visit in adelaide, faq on the best places to visit in adelaide.

Adelaide CBD

The CBD is the best neighbourhood to stay in Adelaide if you’re visiting the city for the first time. Set at the heart of the city, this neighbourhood covers just one square mile and is packed with exciting activities and interesting attractions.

• Delve deep into history at the South Australian Museum.
• Dine on delicious Italian fare at Andre’s Cucina & Polenta Bar.
• Eat fresh and tasty meals at Chianti.

Knowing where to stay in Adelaide is just as important as knowing what places you should visit. Before you start your travels, we’d recommend checking out some neighbourhoods that are close to your favourite attractions, so won’t waste too much time going back on forth.

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#1 Glenelg Beach – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Adelaide

• Long history
• Popular beach
• Child friendly
• Varied activities

Why it’s awesome: Glenelg is one of the oldest European settlements in Australia, having been founded in 1836. It takes its name from a former British Secretary of State. The seaside area is today popular with both locals and tourists and it is one of the best outdoor hotspots in Adelaide. There’s no charge to enjoy the long, sandy beach, and visitors will find an assortment of activities and facilities for a great day out. Near to the beach, there are plentiful shops and eateries, and the local village has several places of interest if you want a break from the sands.

What to do there: Ride the quaint tram Victoria Square (in the centre of Adelaide) out to Glenelg; the journey takes around 25 minutes. Stroll along the jetty and enjoy the vistas, bask on the soft sands, and take a dip in the refreshing sea. Kids can run and play, enjoying usual beach activities like Frisbee, volleyball, football, and building sandcastles, and The Beachouse amusement park is often a huge hit with younger members of the family. Go fishing off the pier, join boat trips to spot dolphins, take a break in a relaxing pavement café, see a replica of the HMS Buffalo, enjoy a beach BBQ, cycle along the coastal path, spend some peaceful moments in the Church of Our Lady of Victories, and watch a beautiful sunset in the evening.

#2 Adelaide Central Market – A great place in Adelaide if you love to shop!

• Much fresh produce
• Speciality shopping
• Lively ambience
• Great place to eat

Why it’s awesome: In continuous operation for more than a century and a half, visiting the Central Market is an Adelaide must-do for anyone who loves browsing and buying. Great no matter the weather (most of the market is undercover!), the large market has a huge array of colourful fresh produce, as well as a large selection of places where you can indulge in diverse meals. There are more than 80 stalls within the actual market, and the surrounding streets have many more shops (with varied goods). The area is also one of the best places to eat in Adelaide too, thanks to its great selection multi-cultural establishments.

What to do there: Take a leisurely stroll through Adelaide Central Market and see the wide array of goods on sale. Perhaps pick up items to cook dinner if you’re staying in accommodation with self-catering facilities, or grab goods for a tasty picnic. You’ll find everything, from fresh fruit and vegetables to cheeses, fresh meats, and baked goods. Visiting with your loved one? Why not pick up a bunch of flowers to make them smile? Call into the Market Plaza and shop in the various speciality stores and pause to rest in one of the cute cafes. You’ll find many restaurants selling tasty international cuisine along the nearby Gougar Street.

#3 Belair National Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Adelaide

• Diverse wildlife
• Walking trails
• Indigenous links
• Gorgeous landscapes

Why it’s awesome: Established in 1891, Belair National Park is one of the oldest national parks in all of Australia and the oldest in South Australia. Within easy reach of the CBD, it’s a splendid natural area with a strong sense of history. Traditionally lands of the indigenous Kaurna people, the national park is home to wildlife-rich woodlands, sparkling lakes, scenic creeks, pretty waterfalls, walking trails, and an abundance of flora and fauna. There are also various leisure, sporting, and recreational facilities too. It’s also a great place to visit with your family if you’re in Adelaide over the weekend and want to enjoy some chill times.

What to do there: Hike along woodland trails to spot a variety of native and introduced wildlife; look for koalas sleeping in the branches and colourful wildflowers. You may also notice old tree carvings created by aboriginal people in times gone by. The Waterfall Hike is particularly picturesque and you can admire the gorgeous cascades after your walk. Go horse riding and cycling, or try something more adventurous with geocaching and orienteering. There are also numerous tennis courts. Alternatively, relax alongside the glistening waters of Playford Lake; it’s an ideal spot for a picnic. Soak up the history at Old Government House, a former colonial summer abode, discover the cave-like formations at Amphitheatre Rocks, learn more about nature, and let kids have heaps of fun at the adventure play area. It really is one of the best places to visit in Adelaide if you love being in the great outdoors.

#4 South Australian Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Adelaide

• Adelaide must see
• Many exhibits
• Biggest collection related to aboriginal culture
• Great for all ages

Why it’s awesome: Open since 1847, the South Australian Museum is among the most famous places in Adelaide. One of the most popular attractions in Adelaide, especially for visitors with a keen interest in history, art, and culture, it’s also perfect for budget travellers—there’s no admission cost! The large and interesting museum contains the biggest collection of Australian aboriginal artefacts of anywhere in the world. Other collections cover themes like natural history, ancient Egypt, geology, and Pacific cultures. The museum also often has varied temporary exhibitions and there are regular special events and programs too.

What to do there: Peruse the 3,000-plus artefacts on display as you uncover more about life in Australia, the country’s wildlife, the past, the people, and more. Plan to spend at least a few hours taking everything in. Delve deeper into the customs, traditions, and cultures of aboriginal peoples, see fossils and rocks from around the country, learn more about diverse cultures from around the Pacific region, travel back in time to ancient Egypt, and discover all about the wildlife of the land and water of South Australia. There are interactive displays and varied activities to help with understanding.

#5 Adelaide Botanic Garden – Great place to visit in Adelaide for couples!

• Budget friendly
• Scenic setting
• Many plants
• Free guided tours

Why it’s awesome: Free to enjoy and open all throughout the year, Adelaide Botanic Garden is one of the most romantic attractions in Adelaide. Covering some 130 acres (51 hectares) and established in the 1850s, the beautiful garden contains many eye-catching features. The garden’s designs took inspiration from lavish royal gardens in the UK and France. Not only home to a wide array of flora, the gardens also boast some beautiful pieces of architecture too. It’s a peaceful place to spend a few hours with a loved one, and couples can enjoy a romantic meal in the restaurant after their visit.

What to do there: Relish the tranquil vibe as you admire gorgeous landscaped gardens, regal avenues, striking buildings, and various terrains. You can also join free guided tours to learn more about the garden’s history and the diverse species that grow here. Appreciate the glorious Palm House, originally built in 1877 and since carefully restored to its former splendour. Inhale sweet scents in the National Rose Trial Garden, see rare and endangered botanical species in the Bicentennial Conservatory, and increase your botanic knowledge in the interesting Museum of Botany. Explore the Amazon Waterlily Pavilion and the First Creek Wetland, visit the State Herbarium, and take time out of your busy schedule to simply relax in a stunning setting.

#6 Mutton Cove – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Adelaide!

• Offbeat destination
• Eerie shipwrecks
• Bird conservation area
• Quiet and remote

Why it’s awesome: The isolated Mutton Cove is located at the end of the LeFevre Peninsula. An off-the-beaten-track destination, it’s among the best Adelaide vacation ideas for people who enjoy visiting quiet places that are a bit different to the norm. The surrounding area is industrial and the saltmarshes connect with the sea. There’s a conservation area where people can see various wildlife, but one of the most interesting features is an old and eerie shipwreck that lies rusting forlornly in the waters.

What to do there: Read the interpretative signboards along the path to the marshes to learn more about local wildlife. You’ll see a power station, storage tanks, and an island in the distance. At the end of the path, you’ll come across the remains of a steamship. One of the most unusual things to do in Adelaide, the vessel was constructed at the end of the 19th century. Called The Excelsior, she worked for farmers, miners, and millers, before eventually being discarded in Mutton Cove in the mid-1940s. Today it presents a rather sad sight. Walk a short distance to the south of The Excelsior and you may be able to spot the remains of another abandoned vessel—The Jupiter. Also abandoned here in the 1940s, the paddle steamer transported people and goods along the waterways in times gone by. Today, she is mainly buried in the muddy ground. You can also try to see various creatures while in the area, including diverse bird species. Common birds that call the area home include swallows, gulls, plovers, herons, and sandpipers, and you may also catch glimpses of birds like pelicans, ducks, and parrots.

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#7 Adelaide Gaol – One of Adelaide’s coolest historical sites!

• Strong sense of history
• Varied tours
• Interesting stories
• See how prisoners lived

Why it’s awesome: The historic Adelaide Gaol is one of the major landmarks in Adelaide and among the oldest buildings in South Australia. It was open between the early 1840s until 1988. Early colonial prisoners were held aboard boats, and then in a military camp. A small, temporary prison was built to fill a need of the expanding population, later replaced by the larger prison modelled after Pentonville Prison in the UK. The first prisoners were moved to the new gaol on Christmas Eve in 1840. After its closure, the prison was turned into a museum and a tourist attraction. Visitors can learn more about nefarious characters from Perth’s past and the penal system.

What to do there: Take a self-guided tour and explore the different parts of the prison; Yards 1, 2, and 3 originally held female prisoners, while the other yards housed male convicts. You can walk along the hallways once walked by notorious characters, and peek inside the cells where they once slept. Find out what life was like for detainees in times gone by and shudder as you learn more about the executions that took place at the prison. For an even bigger spine-tingling experience, join a ghost tour of the spooky gaol at night to hear tales of strange and unearthly happenings.

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#8 Mount Lofty – One of the nicer places in Adelaide to sightsee!

• Amazing views
• Hiking trails
• Wildlife and nature
• Photo opportunities

Why it’s awesome: The appropriately named Mount Lofty is one of the tallest mountains near the city. One of the major outdoor hotspots in Adelaide, it’s a popular leisure destination for locals. Standing at more than 720 metres (2,360 feet) tall, the peak provides fabulous views across the city. There are various ways to reach the summit, including by car and by foot, and a variety of attractions and activities in the locale. Native wildlife, including kangaroos, occupies the surrounding trails.

What to do there: Get active and hike to the top of Mount Lofty to admire terrific vistas. Views include the vibrant city, the lush Piccadilly Valley, and the verdant Adelaide plains. Take a leisurely stroll to spot birds and creatures like kangaroos, explore by bicycle, or take a break in the coffee shop. Why not consider using the free app for a self-guided walking tour of the area to discover more about its nature and history? You can also follow the Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit Trail, one of the most popular hikes around Adelaide, for scenic views and lots of nature. Nearby attractions to add to your day out include Cleland Wildlife Park and Mount Lofty Botanic Garden.

#9 Adelaide Zoo – Awesome place to visit in Adelaide with kids!

• Diverse creatures
• Interactive experiences

Why it’s awesome: Few kids can resist the magic of watching animals, and Adelaide Zoo is among the most popular family-friendly attractions in Adelaide. The second-oldest zoo in the country, it has been open since 1883. The large zoo is home to around 300 species, both from Australia and from overseas, and covers some 20 acres (8 hectares). There are various activities, demonstrations, and talks throughout each day, helping visitors learn more about the animal kingdom. The zoo plays an active role in conservation efforts too.

What to do there: Watch a huge selection of creatures from various parts of the globe as you explore the zoo’s different zones. Experience a walk through the jungle and spot orang-utans and tigers at Immersion, based on Southeast Asia. Stroll through the aviary as various bird species flit all around, learn more about indigenous animals at the Australian Region, travel the world at the African and South American Regions, and come face to face with smaller creatures at the Children’s Zoo. Don’t miss seeing the two giant pandas that call the zoo home. Other creatures that live in the zoo include lions, hippos, giraffes, alligators, tamarins, wolves, wombats, sea lions, and bats. Go behind the scenes to see the special care regimens needed, meet keepers, watch animals being fed, see a huge collection of plants, and call into one of the cafes or restaurants to fight off any hunger pangs.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Adelaide

What is the best place to stay in Adelaide?

Staying close to the city centre is essential when you want to visit the best places in Adelaide. This large studio in CBD is the ideal spot to base yourself.

Which places in Adelaide can you visit for free?

Australia isn’t known to be incredibly budget friendly, but luckily there are some really cool free places to visit in Adelaide. Check them out: – Glenelg Beach – Adelaide Botanic Garden – Mount Lofty

Which places can you visit in Adelaide during winter?

Even during the colder months you can explore plenty of places in Adelaide. These are just a few: – South Australian Museum – Belair National Park – Adelaide Central Market

Which is the best place to visit in Adelaide?

We absolutely love Glenelg Beach and consider it one of the best places to visit in Adelaide. However, Mount Lofty is pretty epic as well, especially if you love the outdoors.

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alexandria Zboyovski

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11 FUN ADELAIDE DAY TRIP IDEAS

If you have seen the city centre and want to explore a little further afield these Adelaide day trip ideas may just be the inspiration you need to see a little more of the regions surrounding South Australia’s capital city .

Last year we spent 5 weeks road tripping in South Australia, exploring the wine region s , and discovering the beauty of Kangaroo Island , and all the hidden nooks in the Adelaide city centre, including its fabulous street art . We fell in love with this less visited state and so today we bring you some more great options to add to your South Australia itinerary.

To supplement our own experiences, cause even in five weeks we couldn’t cover it all, we reached out to some of our travel-loving friends for their suggestions. If you’re stuck for ideas when planning day tours from Adelaide, consider some of these best days out.

Adelaide Hills Day Trip

Burra – a perfect day trip for history lovers, cape jervis – a wildlife lovers’ day trip, clare – perfect for food, wine and cycling, granite island – explore the outdoors, kangaroo island – animal and nature wonderland, monarto safari park, parra wirra conservation park, port adelaide – street art, museums and more, port noarlunga, the barossa valley.

This post contains affiliate links. Our full disclosure policy is here .

The Adelaide Hills have some lovely scenery and dozens of little villages to explore. Whether it’s wineries, wildlife, or walking –a day trip to the  Adelaide Hills has something for everyone. In as little as 20 minutes from the city centre, you can be walking through the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens, cuddling koalas at Cleland Conservation Park , and watching the sunset from the Mount Lofty Summit. Buses run to these locations from the city centre.

You can also bus to the historic German town of Hahndorf. You can spend a day walking along the main street, visiting the many galleries, craft, and gourmet food shops. If you over-indulge the sauerkraut and schnitzels, there are plenty of pubs, and B and B’s where you can spend the night. If you are travelling with children, visit the Big Rocking Horse in Gumeracha and the Farm Barn in Hahndorf. Melba Chocolates in Woodside is also a bit of yummy fun too.

Tip : Be aware, when you visit the hills, it can be five or more degrees cooler than it is in Adelaide!

Depending on when you visit, there are opportunities to do some fruit picking. Check out Beerenberg for strawberries and Glen Ewin Estate for figs. The National Motor Museum in Birdwood is a must-see if you’re a petrolhead. With over 50 wineries, wine tasting is always an option. An Adelaide Hills wine tour is a great day out. The views from some cellar doors are spectacular.

Distance from Adelaide : It’s only 20 minutes from the city to Mount Lofty, a little further to Hardorf. The Adelaide Hills are best explored by car; however, you can explore Hardorf or Mount Lofty using the local bus from the city. Google map reference: Adelaide Hills

Suggested by Natalie from Curious Campers a South Australian local

History lovers should consider a visit to Burra

Rich in mining heritage,  Burra  is a unique day trip from Adelaide for history lovers. Established in 1848 after the discovery of copper, the Burra ‘Monster Mine” became one of the largest mines in the country. The mine attracted droves of miners from Cornwall in England, who flocked to Burra for work and later settled in the region.

The best way to explore Burra’s history is to go on the Burra Heritage Passport tour, which provides access to 46 impressive sites including the Redruth Gaol, the cellars of the Unicorn Brewery, and Burra’s dugouts. And don’t forget the Bon Accord Mine Museum and the Monster Mine. Visiting these places is a step back into Burra’s days of glory, and you can pick up a key from the town’s visitor centre. Leave some time to wander down the main street and browse through the galleries, antique shops, and gift stores. Tip : Stop for afternoon tea at Good Golly Miss Polly for a Cornish pastie, a sweet treat, and a friendly chat with the locals.

Distance from Adelaide : Burra is 165 km from Adelaide and is about a two-hour drive. The best way to get to Burra is to drive. It’s possible to get to Burra by taking the train from Adelaide to Gawler, and there’s a bus from Gawler to Burra once a week. Google map reference: Burra

Suggested by Christina from Travel2Next

An easy hour-and-a-half drive from Adelaide, Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula is a perfect day-trip destination from South Australia’s capital.

Many visitors use Cape Jervis as a jumping-off point for getting to the beautifully wild  Kangaroo Island . However, bypassing everything there is to see and do in this part of the Fleurieu Peninsula means missing out on some beautiful destinations. Situated right on the coast, the area is teeming with incredible ocean views, walking trails, and relaxing beaches. Just in town is the Cape Jervis Lighthouse, the perfect destination for watching the sunset with a picnic or whales passing by from June to October. Locally owned and sourced foods from Leonard’s Mill make the perfect picnic meal, and their onsite restaurant and accommodation allow for a luxurious visit. Nearby Blowhole Beach is just enough off the beaten track, about two kilometres from the car park, to be a peaceful place to relax by the water. Tip: Wildlife lovers will also enjoy hiking around the Deep Creek Conservation Park, where all manner of native Australian animals can be spotted out and about.

Distance from Adelaide : Cape Jervis is a 90-minute drive from Adelaide. While public transportation via the Sealink bus is available, exploring nearby sites requires a car. You can also take a day tour . Google map reference: Cape Jervis Lighthouse

Christa and Jason from Expedition Wildlife suggest a trip to Cape Jervis

Clare makes a lovely day trip from the South Australian capital city. Our favourite thing to do here is to visit the many wineries within the region. We have done the trip a few times from Adelaide for the day, once by car, another on a winery tour, and finally where we took our bikes and rode around the region on a self-guided bike tour. 

Our biking experience in Clare was our favourite. The region is lovely, the bike trails are easily accessible, and the wineries welcome cyclists. We planned our day before we left, stopped at two wineries, and made a booking at Skillogallee for lunch outside in the gardens. It was such a great day and the best way to experience all that the region has to offer. There are also organised cycling tours through the Clare Valley which can be taken as a day or overnight trip.

Distance from Adelaide : Clare is located approximately 135km north of Adelaide, with a drive time of a little over 90 minutes. The public transport option is not appealing, taking closer to three hours, so we suggest a day tour, Clare Uncorked if you don’t fancy renting a car. Google map reference: Clare

Suggested by Erin Parker from Australian Mountains to Sea

A must-do day trip from Adelaide for nature lovers and history buffs is a trip to the majestic Granite Island Recreation Park.

Once you arrive, take a hike along the 2.9km Kaiki Walking trail to see what this Island is all about! You’ll be immersed in the beauty of the unusual granite formations, and breathtaking panoramic views and feel the power of the ocean with the crashing waves.

This trail also includes the creative sculpture trail, which features art from local, national and international artists. 

A colony of little penguins lives on the island, providing an excellent opportunity to view these beautiful animals in their natural habitat. Dusk is the best time to view the little penguins returning from their day at sea. Take advantage of whale watching season, to view the majestic whales migrating to the warmer waters of South Australia to give birth and nurse their young. The season runs from May 1st to October 31st.

Distance from Adelaide: Granite Island is easily accessible from the beautiful seaside town of Victor Harbor, located 84km from Adelaide. Driving will get you the most freedom but you can also take a bus. LinkSA operates daily services from Adelaide to Victor Harbor. From Victor Harbor, take a short stroll to the Island or take the historic horse tram ride over the wooden causeway. Google map reference: Granite Island

Suggested by Kelly from Wanderlust by Kelleyy

Kangaroo Island is well worth the travel time even for a day trip if you can’t spare a couple of nights.

When it comes to beautiful places near Adelaide, nothing can beat Kangaroo Island (KI). White sandy beaches, wineries, a unique national parks, koalas… it has it all! It’s a bit like a mini version of Australia!

As you get to KI, the first thing you should check out are the beaches. Vivonne Bay, Stokes Bay, and Emu Bay are stunning! The sand is white and soft, the waters crystal clear… it’s paradise!  After that, head to Flinders Chase National Park and walk up to the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. These unique natural landmarks are iconic! 

Did you know: Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third-biggest island and is bigger than Bali and Singapore!

Tip : On your way back, make sure to stop at one of the wineries and try some oysters! The Oyster farm in the American River is the perfect place for that! Dudley Wines in Penneshaw is also a great place.

Distance from Adelaide : You can easily reach Kangaroo Island by plane, ferry, or by going on a tour. You can fly from Adelaide to Kingscote every day. It only takes 30 minutes! If you’d rather drive, you will need to go down to Cape Jervis to catch the ferry. Finally, you can opt for a guided tour . They will bring you to the best spots and make everything easier!  Google map reference: Kangaroo Island

Suggested by Pauline from BeeLoved City

We recently spent 5 days exploring Kangaroo Island – check out our itinerary for ideas .

There are some fantastic Kangaroo Island day tours if you prefer not to drive

For people who aren’t fans of the traditional zoo,  Monarto Safari Park is worth checking out. An easy hour’s drive from Adelaide; you’ll have no trouble at all spending the day there.

Spread over 1500 hectares, Monarto Safari Park has the honour of being the largest open plains zoo in the southern hemisphere, as well as one of the world’s largest. Over fifty species of native and exotic animals live within the grounds of the park, all with space to call their own. The design of the park can enable better views and photographs of the animals than you would see at a more traditional zoo, including being face-to-face with a Giraffe at their head level! There are also a variety of experiences on offer where visitors can get up close with Meerkats, Giraffes, Cheetahs, and Chimps. You can either choose to walk through the park, or hop on and off the loop bus as you want. Monarto also plays a hugely important role in the education and conservation of wildlife. Run by a conservation charity dedicated to saving species from extinction, the park runs successful breeding programs. It is home to species of animals that no longer exist in the wild.

Distance from Adelaide : Monarto Safari Park is a 50-minute drive from the centre of Adelaide. While it is easiest to drive, LinkSA also offers a bus that runs from Adelaide during the week.   Google map reference: Monarto Safari Park

Suggested by Holly from Globeblogging

Parra Wirra Conservation Park is the perfect day out for anybody looking to escape the chaos of city life and get back to nature. Don your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and pop in the car to make the short journey over there. You won’t regret it.

With endless hiking and biking trails, wonderful Aussie wildlife (including emus, kangaroos, bearded dragons, and over 100 species of birds), and picturesque picnicking spots, you can spend the day walking, talking, and relaxing amid mind-blowing natural beauty. Young families are sure to love the Natureplay Forest that’s there too. This outdoor playground comes complete with a flying fox, a rope climb, massive fallen logs, and tunnel runs, making it a firm favourite for big and little kids alike. Looking to indulge in a bit of history too? Parra Wirra’s got you covered! Home to the Barossa goldfields, you can see and explore the remains of the gold mining operations that took place here in the 1860s. Throw the birdwatching and horse riding opportunities into the mix, and there’s more than enough to keep you occupied for the day. All told if you’re looking at an amazing day out for the whole family in a place that’s a stone’s throw from the city but worlds away in terms of charm and beauty!

Tip : Other popular animal parks in Adelaide include Cleland Wildlife Park and the Adelaide Zoo.

Distance from Adelaide : Located just 40km northeast of Adelaide CBD. The trip by car takes about 45 minutes. Google map reference: Parra Wirra Conservation Park

Suggested by Danny from the website What’s Danny Doing

For a great day out during your Adelaide visit, head down to the historic maritime precinct of Port Adelaide. Spend your time in Port Adelaide exploring one of the great museums. It will be no surprise that this is the location of the South Australian Maritime Museum, but you will also find the National Railway Museum and the South Australian Aviation Museum.

Wander down to the wharf and jump aboard a dolphin cruise. This will take you up and down the Port River, the home to a pod of dolphins that love to show off. Learn about the industrial past and present of the area.  Explore the maritime area further by visiting the historic “City of Adelaide” clipper ship which is slowly being restored, or admire the tall sailing ships “One & All” and “Falie” which are usually tied up right on the wharf.

There are plenty of restaurants and pubs for all types of dining. Relax with a craft beer at Pirate Life Brewing. If you choose to stay into the evening, take a ghost tour through some of the old buildings, searching for ghosts and hearing tales of daring and disaster.

As you are walking from place to place, keep your eyes open for some of the fantastic street art. There are more than fifty murals gracing the walls of Port Adelaide.

Check out more of Josie’s tips for things to do in Port Adelaide .

Distance from Adelaide : At just 14km from the city centre, it’s an easy half-hour train ride or a short drive to get there. Google map reference: Port Adelaide

Suggested by Adelaide local Josie from Josie Wanders

Want more street art? Check out our guide to mural art in Adelaide’s CBD.

A short 40-minute drive from Adelaide is the stunning red sandstone cliffs that line the beach at Port Noarlunga. This seaside village is a gorgeous place to spend a lazy summer afternoon. Stroll the beach and admire the sandstone cliffs, or swim in the crystal clear waters. 

Enjoy lunch at Hortas Restaurant, which serves up contemporary Australian and Portuguese-inspired dishes. It offers a gorgeous view overlooking the beach. Order their lemon pepper squid – a ubiquitous Aussie dish that is perfect to enjoy the seaside.   Port Noarlunga Reef Aquatic Reserve reef offers snorkelling and diving opportunities. It is also visible from the jetty. This reef is home to around 200 species of marine plants and over 50 species of fish. For divers, there is a self-guided aquatic trail. The beach is safe for swimming and this small town close to Adelaide makes for a perfect day trip from the South Australian capital. 

Distance from Adelaide : An easy 40-minute drive from the city centre. If driving on the left side of the road isn’t for you, you can catch a train from Adelaide to Noarlunga Centre Interchange. Then change to either bus 745 or 751 to arrive at the beachfront in just over an hour.  Google map reference: Port Noarlunga

Suggest by Bellinda from Wanderlust Marriage

Adelaide is one of Australia’s best cities to explore. But it is also what is found outside of it, which adds to any trip out in South Australia. One place that cannot be missed is the iconic Barossa Valley wine region. Here, some of the world’s most renowned wines can be tasted (and taken home) – because how could you leave without some bottles to enjoy later?

When it comes to quality wineries, there are many unmissable drops to try out here, and amazing scenery as well; both of which will only add to your time here. My favourite wine is the Barossa Shiraz by Chris Ringland. It’s my favourite Australian Shiraz in the country. Other notable winery stops worth mentioning are Yalumba (which is steeped in history), Chateau Tanunda (with its iconic architecture), and Kies Family Wines (family-owned, but live by quality over quantity). 

You can’t go wrong starting at any of these on any Barossa day out or overnight visit. So make sure you make it out there.

You can drive out to the Barossa, but a private bus tour is a way to go since you can drink all the wines and not have to worry about how to get home. A wine tour can take it out of you, no matter how you pace it. There are several options available from Adelaide.

This Barossa Valley Food and Wine experience includes two of Barossa’s respected wineries, Maggie Beer’s farm shop, and Barossa Valley Chocolates.

Check out the full range of guided day tours to the Barossa Valley

Distance from Adelaide : The Barossa Valley is located approximately 70 km northeast of Adelaide, around a 1-hour drive from the Adelaide CBD. Google map reference: The Barossa Valley

Suggested by Toni from Enchanted Serendipity

Got a question? Head over to our Australia Travel Tips Facebook Group and ask a local.

1 thought on “11 Fun Adelaide Day Trip Ideas”

A great guide to some day trips from Adelaide. Will have to save this in case I ever get back there!

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60 Fun Things To Do In Adelaide

Adelaide is the charming and fascinating capital city of South Australia. With a beautiful riverside location, easy access to beaches, a laid-back lifestyle, and plenty of intriguing culture, Adelaide is definitely one of Australia’s best cities to visit. As you’d expect from any large city, there’s plenty of fun things to do in Adelaide, along with lots of sightseeing Adelaide options, tours, attractions, and much more. So if you’re wondering what to do in Adelaide, read on for our mega-post of fun things to do around Adelaide!

Updated June 2022

Table of contents.

Disclosure:  Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we will earn commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Adelaide Central Business District (CBD)

The downtown area of Adelaide, usually referred to as the CBD or Central Business District, has plenty of attractions to suit all budgets and tastes.

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1. adelaide oval.

The magnificent Adelaide Oval is one of Australia’s great sporting venues. Hosting a variety of sports and other events, the Oval has a beautiful riverside location and is easy to access from the CBD. The atmosphere is always electric, so catching a game is highly recommended. Sports fans will love the Stadium Tour, including behind-the-scenes areas and the Bradman Collection. And thrill-seekers should head for the Rooftop Experience, an epic two-hour walk atop the grandstands, with spectacular views of the ground, the River Torrens, and the city.

Click Below To BOOK Your Adelaide Oval Experience:

2. adelaide central markets.

Located in central Adelaide, right near Victoria Square, Adelaide Central Markets ranks among the country’s best food markets. One of the best Adelaide tourist attractions, with over 150 years of history and more than 70 vendors, the Markets is a great place to grab a huge range of fresh food – meat, seafood, smallgoods, fruit and vegetables, along with excellent cafes and restaurants. Just outside the market you’ll find Adelaide’s Chinatown district, with tasty foods from all across Asia. To get the most out of Adelaide Central Markets, consider doing a breakfast tour or lunch tour , taking advantage of local knowledge.

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3. adelaide gaol.

The historic Adelaide Gaol is one of the more unusual Adelaide attractions. Constructed in the 1840s, the Gaol operated right through until 1988. With fascinating colonial architecture, lurid history, and frequent ghost sightings, touring Adelaide Gaol is definitely one of the best places to see in Adelaide. To get the most out of a visit, it’s strongly recommended to take a tour and enjoy the stories of days gone by.

Click Below To BOOK Your Adelaide Gaol Experience:

Guided adelaide city tours - include:.

There’s so many great places to visit in Adelaide, that picking out the best places to visit in Adelaide can be quite difficult. For a comfortable trip around the highlights, taking a guided coach tour is a great option. A typical guided tour will visit some of Adelaide’s most impressive landmarks, including:

4. South Australian Museum

The South Australian Museum is dedicated mostly to natural history, and is one of Australia’s most visited museums. It holds the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal Australian artefacts, and an impressive array of objects from Ancient Egypt, Australia’s polar exploration, and Pacific culture among many others.

5. Art Gallery of South Australia

The Art Gallery of South Australia is Australia’s second-largest art gallery, with a collection of around 47,000 pieces. Inside, you’ll find works by renowned Australian artists like Sidney Nolan, Russell Drysdale, Arthur Streeton, and Margaret Preston, shown alongside well known international artists like Goya, Rodin, and van Dyck. There’s also well-regarded collections of indigenous, Asian, and Islamic art too.

6. State Library of South Australia

Located in a grand collection of buildings along North Terrace, the State Library of South Australia is the state’s official public document repository. With a huge collection of historic materials like books, magazines, pamphlets, journals and more, it’s a great spot to explore and soak in the rich history of South Australia.

7. St Peter’s Cathedral

Adelaide is unofficially known as the “City of Churches”, and St Peter’s Cathedral is one of the most impressive in the city. Built in the late 19th century and modelled roughly on Notre-Dame de Paris, St Peter’s is one of Adelaide’s iconic Anglican churches. Services are run daily, and interior tours are also available.

8. Leafy North Adelaide

Sometimes there’s no better way to understand a city than to visit its peaceful suburbs. Quiet and leafy North Adelaide is one of the nicest areas of the whole city, with lots of green space and small historic buildings. Head north across the Torrens, past the Oval and St Peters, and just start exploring – it’s difficult to go wrong!

9. Haigh’s Chocolates (factory tour)

South Australia is home to many of Australia’s most beloved products, and one of the best is Haigh’s Chocolates . An independent family-run company that’s been producing chocolate in Adelaide for over 100 years, Haigh’s is considered one of Australia’s best chocolatiers. Their factory in central Adelaide is well worth a visit, with tours and tastings available. And of course, there’s a well-stocked gift shop!

Interested In Seeing Everything Above? Book This Guided Tour!

Self-guided adelaide city tours - include:.

Joining a tour isn’t for everyone, but there’s still something to be said for having a local guide. However, a self-guided walk with audio commentary delivered via a smartphone app offers the best of both worlds. This self-guided walking tour of central Adelaide covers bustling:

10. Victoria Square (Tarntanyangga)

The grid plan of central Adelaide has six separate public squares. The largest square, centrally located in the CBD, is Victoria Square or Tarntanyangga. Still the city’s largest and most important meeting place, the square has statues, fountains, and green spaces. And for the geographically curious, it’s also home to South Australia’s original survey mark – everything in the state was planned in relation to this point!

11. St Francis Xavier Cathedral

Another of Adelaide’s great churches, the imposing St Francis Xavier Cathedral stands adjacent to Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga. A Roman Catholic cathedral, construction commenced in the 1850s, but wasn’t fully completed until 1996! It’s regarded as an excellent example of Neo-Gothic architecture, and is one of central Adelaide’s most beautiful buildings.

12. Adelaide Festival Centre

Adelaide is one of Australia’s great performing arts hubs, and the Adelaide Festival Centre is at the heart of that. A large complex right on the riverbank, the Centre is home to several theatres, playhouses, exhibition spaces, bars, and restaurants. With everything from opera to theatre, music to comedy, and plenty in between, the Festival Centre is a great spot to discover Adelaide’s incredible performance culture.

13. Rundle Mall

Rundle Mall is the CBD’s main shopping district. A wide pedestrian mall that runs for several city blocks, Rundle Mall is home to shops of all kinds. You’ll find large department stores, luxury boutiques, bargain stores, cafes, restaurants, pubs, and much more. There’s some fantastic public art on display, and it’s also the perfect location to relax and watch the world pass by.

14. Migration Museum

Almost 30% of South Australians were born overseas, and nearly 50% have at least one parent born outside Australia, making migration a key part of the Australian experience. The Migration Museum aims to showcase the stories and experiences of those who made the long journey Down Under; from those seeking fortunes in the 19th century, to those escaping conflict in the 21st century.

15. Parliament House

One of the grandest buildings in Adelaide, Parliament House (technically “New Parliament House”) is located on the northern edge of the CBD. With an impressive columned facade built from granite and marble, the House was constructed in stages between 1874 and 1939. As the legislative centre of South Australia, it’s a fascinating place to visit and watch democracy in action.

The tour also covers previously-mentioned highlights like the Central Market, South Australian Museum, and St Peter’s Cathedral.

Interested In Seeing Everything Above? Book This Self Guided Tour!

16. riverbank precinct.

Central Adelaide sits directly on the Torrens River, surrounded by parklands, bike and walking paths, and some of the city’s most important buildings. 

17. Adelaide Zoo

The impressive Adelaide Zoo , with a huge assortment of Australian and international animals (including the only giant pandas in Australia!) is located directly on the riverbank, and one of the top Adelaide attractions. 

18. Adelaide Botanic Garden

Right next door is the beautiful Adelaide Botanic Garden , featuring a range of plants, flowers, and gardens. The nearby Bicentennial Conservatory with its enormous greenhouse and collection of tropical plants is worth a look too.

19. River Cruising

For a relaxing afternoon, consider taking a River Torrens Sightseeing Cruise, which also features the Adelaide Gaol, Adelaide Oval, and Adelaide Festival Centre too.

BOOK NOW – River Torrens Sightseeing Cruise

You’ve also got the option of smaller scale river cruises, like a High Tea Cruise on Popeye, renting one of the small BBQ boats known as BBQ Buoys and cruising around yourself, or doing a Kayaking Experience. And of course, the ever-popular Segway Guided Tour runs up and down the Riverbank Precinct, showing all of the highlights with none of the walking.

Book BELOW:

20. ayers house.

Built in the 1870s, Ayers House is a gorgeous colonial Victorian mansion located right in the heart of Adelaide. One of the city’s premier events spaces, it’s a great spot to relax with high tea, Christmas drinks, or a cheeky cocktail.

21. Adelaide Himeji Garden

Lovers of Japanese gardens will be enchanted with Adelaide Himeji Garden , a tranquil and refreshing oasis on the southern fringe of the Adelaide CBD. Featuring all the traditional elements of Japanese gardens, Adelaide Himeji Garden is definitely one of the best things to see in Adelaide.

22. National Wine Centre of Australia

The National Wine Centre of Australia is definitely one of the top Adelaide must see attractions. Located in the north-east of the CBD, just near the Botanic Gardens, the National Wine Centre is an exhibition centre that showcases Australian (and particularly South Australian) wine. Featuring tasting rooms, winemaking displays, and information about different wine varieties, the Wine Centre is a must do in Adelaide for any vino lover.

MOD (short for Museum of Discovery) , is one of the more unusual attractions in Adelaide. Part of the University of South Australia, MOD is a museum about the future of science and technology, squarely aimed at young adults (aged roughly 15-25). With lots of interactivity, a continuously revolving door of exhibits, and no entry fees, MOD is definitely one of the best things to do in Adelaide for free.

24. TreeClimb Adelaide

Located in the Parklands just south of the CBD, TreeClimb Adelaide is an exciting adventure experience that’s great for the whole family. With a series of rope courses running between treetop platforms, connected with rope nets, swinging bridges, and zip-lines, TreeClimb Adelaide offers a great way to get fit and connect with nature. There’s separate courses for adults and kids, and of course a full safety briefing is included.

25. Escape Rooms

Escape Rooms have recently exploded in popularity, and can be a great way to exercise your brain in a new and interesting way. With 60 minutes to escape from a locked room by solving a series of puzzles, doing an escape room is fun for both families and friend groups alike. So if you’d like to try one of the most fun activities in Adelaide, consider checking out this Escape Room experience!

BOOK NOW – Escape Room

26. Tunnel Tours

The Old Adelaide Treasury building is one of the city’s finest historic sites, steeped in history and fascinating stories. Underneath the building is a labyrinth of once-secret tunnels, connecting various parts of the building and allowing both goods and people to move around undisturbed. Exploring old buildings and tunnels is always fascinating, so this Old Treasury & Tunnel Tour definitely ranks among the best activities to do in Adelaide.

27. Street Art Experience

Like most big cities, Adelaide has a vibrant street art scene. With everything from large murals to smaller spray pieces, exploring the city’s street art provides a unique perspective on life and culture. A guided tour is recommended to easily find the coolest spots, and this 90-minute Pedicab (some cycling you around) Tour is one of the best. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the city’s thriving art.

BOOK NOW – 90-Minute Street Art Experience

28. Gouger Street Restaurant Precinct

Australians are well known as serious foodies, and Adelaide is home to some of the country’s top restaurants. There are several great restaurant precincts in Adelaide, and Gouger Street is among the best. Centred on Chinatown, Gouger Street naturally features many styles of Asian cuisine, including Thai, Vietnamese, Malay, Indian, and many regional flavours types of Chinese too. But it’s not just Asian food! Gouger Street also dishes up Italian, Argentinian, French, and American, to name just a few. There’s also several bars and clubs in the area if you’re looking to make a night of it!

29. Rundle Street Restaurant Precinct

Another of Adelaide’s excellent restaurant areas is Rundle Street East, right near Rundle Mall in the CBD. In the short span of a few blocks you’ll find restaurants from all over the world, serving delicious food and inspiring drinks. Whether you’re craving a burger, a mezze platter, vegan goodies, Korean fried chicken, some Afghan curry, or just a flat white, exploring Rundle Street’s endless food varieties is recommended as one of the best fun places to go in Adelaide.

Accommodation Options

Along the coast.

One of Adelaide’s greatest features is the seemingly endless strip of beaches running along the city’s western edge. With spectacular sunsets, inviting water, cool cafes and suburbs, the coastline is one of the best places to go in Adelaide.

Southern Beaches

Technically on the Fleurieu Peninsula, the southern beaches of Adelaide are some of the best city beaches in Australia. I mean I am a little bit bias but I stand by my call. Even though they are on the Fleurieu they are essentially still suburbs of Adelaide so still being included here. 

30. Drive on Moana Beach

Vehicle access is allowed on Moana Beach between 5:30am and 12 midnight. There is no better way than spending a hot summers day on the beach with all the creature comforts you need by having your car with you. Please note there is a charge to drive your car onto the beach. 

31. Snorkel at Port Noarlunga

A lovely reef is located at the end of the Port Noarlunga jetty making snorkelling or scuba diving easily accessible. Home to more than 200 species of marine plants and animals and over 50 species of fish this reef is a must see.  If you are a beginner I suggest staying on the beach side of the reef, where it is more protected. 

32. Check Out The Hallett Cove Conservation Park

With evidence of an Australian ice age some 280 million years ago the Hallett Cove Conservation Park is a must see. The outstanding glacial pavements along the cliff tops are known to be the best record of Permian glaciation in Australia. The walks and views from this park are also a must see. 

Heading Further South? Things To Do On The Fleurieu Peninsula - COMING SOON

Glenelg, brighton & seacliff.

Glenelg is probably the best known spot along Adelaide’s coast. Within easy reach of the city, there’s plenty of things to do in Glenelg.

33. Catch The Tram or Cycle

Catch the famous Glenelg Tram from the CBD, or do a Glenelg Bike Tour from the city and enjoy the suburbs of Adelaide making your way to Glenelg.  

Interested In Cycling to Glenelg? Book Below!

34. do a cruise.

The sunsets along Adelaide’s coasts are absolutely epic, so a Catamaran Cruise from Glenelg  is a great way to finish off a day. Whereas for nature lovers, wild dolphins are a common sight off the beaches, so a Dolphin Swim or Watching Cruise is a must do. 

Interested In These Cruises? Click Below!

35. the beachouse.

If you’ve got a younger crowd with you, don’t miss The Beachouse on the foreshore at Glenelg. It’s a family amusement park, with classic favourites like bumper cars, water slides, mini golf, and arcade games, and it’s among the top Glenelg attractions.

36. Jetty Road Glenelg

While you’re at Glenelg, be sure to stroll down Jetty Road, checking out the excellent shops and restaurants that line the street. There’s a mouth-watering array of cuisines and styles, with a range of choices for all budgets. Once sated, pop into one of the many boutique clothing stores before browsing the art galleries.

37. Jetty Road Brighton

A couple of suburbs south from Glenelg is where you’ll find Brighton, and another Jetty Road. Packed full of cafes, Jetty Road in Brighton is the perfect spot for grabbing a morning cuppa with a pastry, and watching the world wake up.

38. Coastal Walk

If you’re feeling more active, doing the picturesque Seacliff to Glenelg coastal walk is one of the cool things to do in Adelaide. Roughly six kilometres in length, the coastal walk runs through beaches, dunes, parks, bush and headlands, and along the way you’ll see plenty of sculptures, information signs, Aboriginal cultural sites and Brighton Jetty. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon, and is best finished off with a celebratory drink (or several!) in Glenelg.

West Beach & Henley Beach

West Beach is located along Adelaide’s coast, just north of Glenelg. It’s a chilled-out beach suburb, with plenty of sand, sun, and good times. Whereas Henley Beach is further north full or great cafes and restaurants.

39. West Beach Adventure

The main highlight here at West Beach Adventure , a large climbing and aerial adventure complex located just off the beach. With rope platforms, swings, high wires, suspended ladders and more, it’s an adrenaline-packed way to spend the afternoon.

40. Henley Square

Henley Square is a precinct filled with restaurants that overlook the water and jetty. There is also an epic water feature that kids love to splash about in. Whether a restaurant tickles your fancy or fish and chips on the beach (or grass) Henley Square is a great place to relax. 

Port Adelaide

At the northern end of Adelaide’s coast is where you’ll find Port Adelaide, a pleasant former industrial area that has plenty of entertaining things to do.

41. Port River Cruise

It’s a great place for getting out on the water, and there’s no better way to do that than a Port River Cruise . Spend a relaxing couple of hours on an impressive tall ship, cruising up and down the river.

BOOK NOW – Tall Ship Port River Cruise

42. Dolphin Kayaking Tour

Or for something a bit smaller in scale, a Dolphin Kayaking Tour gives you the chance to get up close and personal with inquisitive river dolphins.

Interested In Seeing the Dolphins? Book Below!

43. museums.

On dry land, two of the best things to do in Port Adelaide are the Maritime Museum , with its impressive displays of local shipping history, and the National Railway Museum , featuring over 100 displays of locomotives and carriages.

Just across the Port Adelaide river is where you’ll find Semaphore, another of Adelaide’s great beach communities.

44. Semaphore Beach

There’s plenty of things to do along the Semphore Foreshore. Like hitting the waterslides, exploring the historic jetty, relaxing on the sand, playing mini-golf, or riding the vintage carousel or ferris wheel. 

45. Skydiving

But to really get your adrenaline going, how about a 15,000 foot Skydive over Semaphore Beach? With one of the world’s most spectacular backdrops, skydiving just got even better!

BOOK NOW – Skydiving Over Semaphore Beach

North Haven

Finally, at the far northern end of Adelaide’s coastline is North Haven, home to the city’s fishing fleet. There’s a public boat ramp if you’ve got your own beautiful boat. 

46. Fishing Charter

While keen anglers looking to drop a line should book a half day fishing charter. With all of the necessary gear provided, you’ll be taken about 15 kilometres offshore and guided through the process of catching tasty local fish like flathead, snapper, and King George whiting.

BOOK NOW – Half Day Fishing Charter

South Of The City

Adelaide’s southern suburbs are a fascinating mixture of leafy areas, rolling hills, and quiet suburbia. There’s plenty of interesting things to discover in this part of Adelaide.

47. Belair National Park

In the south-eastern corner is the suburb of Belair, nestled at the foot of the Mount Lofty Ranges. Here you’ll find Belair National Park , an undisturbed patch of green space on the edge of the city. Highlights here include the Valley Loop Walk, and the Waterfall Hike which covers the park’s waterfalls and beautiful forested areas.

48. Windy Point Lookout

On Belair Road, about 15 minutes from the city there is a parking spot known as Windy Point (due to the lovely Windy Point restaurant, also located there). On a clear day you can you can see as far as Port Adelaide, probably further, with also fantastic views over the city and the ocean.  At night the city light up the sky and it really is a beautiful spot to take in the city of Adelaide. 

49. Wittunga Botanic Gardens

Found in the suburb of Blackwood, the 13-hectare Wittunga Botanic Garden is a beautiful little spot in the heart of suburbia. You will find extensive water-wise plants from Australia and South Africa, an extensive collection of plants from Kangaroo Island and the Fleurieu Peninsula and a butterfly garden among other things. 

Marion Precinct

The Marion area (actually Oaklands Park), but known fondly to locals as Marion has a lot of great things to do.

50. Westfield Marion Shopping Centre

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Marion at Adelaide’s largest shopping mall, Westfield Marion . Packed with shops, restaurants and cafes, it’s the perfect place to shop till you drop.

51. SA Aquatic & Leisure Centre

Nearby is the SA Aquatic & Leisure Centre , a large modern swimming and fitness complex with multiple pools and gyms. With an olympic sized swimming pool, multiple other deep and shallow pools, there is something for everyone. Not to mention the diving boards, steam rooms, sauna, gym, creche and even a cafe. It has everything you need. 

Or if you’d rather work on your swing, consider checking out some Indoor Golf (X-Golf). You get all the fun of working on your swing, but without the hassle of flies and sunburn!

BOOK NOW – X Golf

East Of The City

Adelaide is bordered to the east by the imposing Mount Lofty Ranges, with the rolling green hills visible from most parts of the city.

53. Waterfall Gully

One of Adelaide’s top attractions is Waterfall Gully , home to the Waterfall Gully Hike. This is a challenging 2.5 hour, 4.5 kilometre trail that runs from Waterfall Gully, up to the summit of Mount Lofty. It features spectacular views, awesome nature, and incredible waterfalls, and is one of Adelaide’s most beloved and popular walks.

54. The Parade

With your exercise done and dusted, head to the inner east suburb of Norwood and its buzzing main street, The Parade. This long shopping street is home to excellent restaurants, chic fashion stores, boutique business, trendy bars, lively pubs, and some of Adelaide’s coolest cafes. There’s a genuine vibe to the area, and easily tops the list of cool places in Adelaide.

Heading Further East? Check out!

North of the city.

Adelaide’s northern suburbs are one of the fastest growing areas of the city, which makes sense once you discover all of the fascinating things to do in the area.

55. Latitude Air

One of the best family activities in Adelaide is Latitude Air , a large indoor trampoline area in Greenacres. With over 100 connected trampolines, and areas for parkour, dodgeball and basketball, kids of all ages will have a great time.

56. Westfield Tea Tree Plaza Shopping Centre

And of course, if you’re still in need of a bit of retail therapy, one of the best shopping areas in Adelaide is Westfield Tea Tree Plaza (or TTP as the locals call it). You’ll find Tea Tree Plaza in Modbury, in the city’s north-east. It’s home to nearly 250 stores, including large department stores, small boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and plenty of services too.

Heading Further North? Check out!

West of the city.

Finally, there’s Adelaide’s western suburbs – the narrow but interesting area between the CBD and the beachfront districts.

Located at Marleston in the inner west, you’ll find Bounce Inc , an indoor trampoline park for kids and adults alike. With hundreds of interconnected trampolines and other activities, Bounce Inc is definitely among Adelaide’s best family-friendly activities.

58. AFL Max

Nearby, on the edge of Adelaide Airport, is AFL Max – a unique blend of sports clinic and adventure park. Focused around learning and developing the skills of AFL, Australia’s national football code, AFL Max also includes trampoline areas, inflatable obstacle courses, video games, and much more. If you’re looking for interesting things to do, AFL Max is up there as a top Adelaide attraction.

59. IceArena

IceArena is the city’s largest ice skating facility, located in Thebarton just north-west of the CBD. There’s plenty of family-friendly stuff to do here, from free skating, to lessons, and ice hockey games.

60. Harbour Town

Outlet shopping has boomed in popularity over recent years, as people search for designer brands at budget prices. Adelaide’s best outlet shops are all located in the Harbour Town shopping precinct, at the edge of Adelaide’s airport. The outlets here sell everything from menswear, womenswear, sports equipment, homewares, outdoor gear, and plenty more. If you’re looking to pick up a bargain or two in Adelaide, it’s hard to beat Harbour Town.

Final Thoughts

Well there you have it. A HUGE list of things to do in Adelaide. If you can’t find something that interests you there I am not sure where you can. In saying that if we have missed somewhere that you love please reach out and let us know. We would love to include it. You can contact us at [email protected].

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The Ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip (+ Map, Itinerary)

From zig-zag roads and lush wine country to national parks and scenic vantage points – Melbourne to Adelaide is one of Australia’s most iconic road trip routes. The range of discoveries you find along the way is simply remarkable – giving the best Aussie experience to visitors travelling from across the world. So if you’re planning a road trip on this route, you’ll find an in-depth resource below to help you out with everything!

Melbourne to Adelaide road trip runs along the Great Ocean Road of Australia, which in itself is one of the wonders of this country. I’ve been curating road trip guides for Australia for a long time now, but this in particular is something pretty special to me. The only reason is because of the fact that Great Ocean Road boasts a great diversity of attractions to feel and experience. Even if you journey on a full-day trip from Melbourne, you get to see some of the amazing wonders.

The most notable ones include exploring the mighty Mount Gambier, the acclaimed wine regions of Coonawarra  and  McLaren Vale , and the postcard-worthy seaside towns of Robe, Victor Harbor and Second Valley. Of course, there are plenty of vantage points and lookout areas that offer perfect panoramic views of the ocean. But all-in-all, Melbourne to Adelaide is one such road trip you should definitely add to your bucket-list adventures.

When it comes to planning a road trip, isn’t an easy task! Especially if you do all arrangements on your own. Thus, to help you out in order to compile everything for this trip, we created a simple yet in-depth guide for Melbourne to Adelaide. This article details all the resources – including the best places to visit, hidden gems to explore, accommodation suggestions, a sample itinerary, and much more.

So let’s get started!

Planning Tips for Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

Firstly, let’s dig into the finer planning details of our road trip. In this section, we’ve provided a detailed map, suggested driving routes, car rental ideas, and much more.

How to Get to Adelaide from Melbourne

There are multiple routes to reach Adelaide from Melbourne. One via National Highway A8 which cuts through the Grampians National Park into South Australia. The other is via M79 , which intersects National Highway A8 at Little Desert National Park. Both these routes considerably take less time, as they cut through the state of Victoria directly.

However, the best driving route to reach Adelaide is via Great Ocean Road . It goes without saying, that the journey is far more scenic than the other routes mentioned above. Furthermore, you can span your entire journey across five to six days to get the best experience of Australia.

Melbourne to Adelaide via Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road lies in the state of Victoria in south-eastern Australia. It is a roughly 78-minute drive away from Melbourne’s main city centre and is often regarded as one of the best day trips from the city. This scenic route starts from Torquay and ends in Allansford, covering a total distance of 243 km.

The drive from Melbourne to Adelaide is a total of 924 km. If you drive non-stop, it would approximately take 10hr 41mins to reach via the Great Ocean Road.   However, a direct journey is not recommended, and it’s best to include stops throughout your entire road trip. As suggested, plan a detailed itinerary on where to make pit stops, which places to visit, and where to stay. This will ensure that your road trip to Adelaide isn’t tiresome.

How to Rent a Car in Australia

Renting a car in Australia isn’t as difficult as you’d think. It’s a pretty straightforward process, which only requires a little understanding of vehicles. For all my Australian road trips, I’ve suggested Rentalcars.com as their service and price affordability are hard to beat. They are the best in their business, and you can easily get a perfect vehicle at an affordable rate.

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Map

Here’s a driving route map to reach Adelaide (including all the stops)

The Best Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Stops

It’s time to finally hit the roads and explore the best road trip stops on this iconic route.

Discover Great Otway National Park

Drive from Melbourne to Otway National Park : 2hr 46mins (209 kms)

Home to dense rainforests, bushlands, tiny waterfalls, and rugged hiking trails – Great Otway National Park is a paradise for all wildlife & adventure lovers. Upon crossing Apollo Bay at the Great Ocean Road, you’d see a road heading inland from the main highway. This stretch leads youy right into the heart of the Great Otway National Park.

This majestic national park has been a popular stopover point for visitors on the Great Ocean Road. Many tourists stay at Apollo Bay, as the area boasts a great chocie of accommodation. Alternatively, the Great Otway National Park also hosts amazing cottages, treehouses, and lodges. This is ideal for those who plan to stay a couple of days more within the park.

What I genuinely like the most about this place is the diversity of things to see & do . From amazing hiking & walking trails, to ziplining across the forested area – the Great Otway National Park bustles with thrilling and energetic activities.

Otway Fly Tree Top

The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures is perfect for families, friends, and young children to enjoy a range of vast activities in the middle of a national park. The two main activities – ziplining and the treetop walk – are the most popular ones here.

The Fly Tree Top, which is situated 25-metres above the ground, gives unparalled views of the Otway Ranges. Its a suspension bridge that expands 600 metre in length. To complete the walk from one end to another, it will approximately take one hour. All-in-all, the Fly Tree Top is a fun adventure to witness the rainforest from soaring heights.

The zipline, on the other hand, is perfect for thrill-seekers. The rope is suspended up to 30-meters in height, from where visitors can zip through the treetops from one station to the other. Ensure that you book both the activities well in advance, as they sell out like hot cakes during peak season.

Cape Otway Lightstation

Great Ocean Road is already known for its spectacular coastline. There’s probably hundreds of viewpoints and lookout areas spready across Victoria and South Australia. However, nothing can beat the panormic sight exploration of Cape Otway Lightstation.

Nestled atop the cliff, this historical landmark is worthy of its own. The views from the lighthouse are simply unmatched. Furthermore, nearby trails and whale-watching from the lighthouse makes it even more enthralling to explore this amazing attraction.

Guided Excursions of the National Park

The Great Otway National Park has a tremendous indigenous history. I would highly recommend you to consider a guided walk in the forest. These excursions are led by conservationist who provide an in-depth knowledge of the national park’s ecology, native wildlife, and protected communities.

Where to stay in the Great Otway National Park Budget : Beachcomber Motel & Apartments , The Apollo

Marvel at The Twelve Apostles

Drive from Otway National Park to the Twelve Apostles : 55 mins (61.6 kms)

Nestled alongside the coastline of the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles stands as an iconic landmark of this route. Cometh any season, these towering limestone pillars strike their natural pose to all photographers who want breathtaking pictures. I mean, you could just marvel at this setting for hours and hours, and still not get bored imagining how beautiful they simply look.

The Twelve Apostles were once connected to the mainland cliffs, but by natural occurrences of strong wind & ocean, these limestones got battered with only a few standing tall today. With continuous erosion and changing climate, scientists believe that these limestone stacks will remain unstable in future.

Book Excursion | Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip from Melbourne

Discover the 12 Apostles’ Viewpoints

When it comes to exploration, there are plenty of ways to see the 12 Apostles. The most budgeted way is to take full advantage of the scenic vantage points. These lookout areas offer the best panoramic view of the limestone along with the coastline surrounding them.

The Castle Rock lookout is my favourite one, but it could be a little crowded during the peak season. The second best is Tom and Eva Lookout offering a sweeping coastline view over the Island Arch and the Loch Ard Gorge. Alternatively, head to Island Arch Lookout which provides fantastic views of the historic rock formations.

Must Read | Best Amazing Viewpoints of the Twelve Apostles for Photographers

Marvel the 12 Apostles from the Air

Honestly, there’s no better way to see these limestones than to take an aerial route. A helicopter ride over the 12 Apostles is all you need to catch breathtaking scenes of the surrounding coastline. From the sky, you could also marvel at the Shipwreck Coast that lines up all the way up to Cape Otway.

Take a guided walk to Loch Ard Gorge

Learn more about the 12 Apostles’ history, timelines, geology, and marine discovery with a guided walk to Loch Ard Gorge. It’s one of the most intriguing places to visit on the coast, as you discover its Ochre-hued cliffs shaped in a dramatic curvacious landscape. Beyond its beauty, Loch Ard Gorge has a popular tale of ship wreckage. But I’ll probably leave this story for your guided adventure!

Where to stay on the Great Ocean Road Mid-range : The Oak & Anchor Hotel , Lady Bay Resort Luxury : RACV Torquay Resort , Apollo Bay Guest House , Southern Ocean Villas

Relax at Warrnambool

Drive from Twelve Apostles to Warrnambool : 58 mins (73.7 kms)

Warrnambool is a thriving region that houses some of Australia’s best coastal scenery, quaint seaside villages, fascinating history, and amazing wildlife. The town has been driving a massive number of visitors every year, with plenty of them opting to stay overnight. Thus, along with discovering Warrnambool’s famous sights – you could opt to spend a luxurious night here .

Popular Things to do in Warrnambool, Australia –

Visit Middle Island

Middle Island is a great stop for tourists to spot penguins. They are often found within the Thunder Point Coastal Reserve. You’d also see Maremma’s trained dogs at Middle Island guarding and protecting these penguins from foxes. You can also book a ‘Meet the Maremma Tour’ for a live experience.

Go Whale Watching

Warrnambool is a paradisical land for wildlife lovers. Especially, from June to September – the town treats you with an amazing whale-watching experience, as humpback whales return to the shores to mate and socialize. Some of the guided tours do take you out on a discovery ride to watch these whales in their natural habitat. Few of the operators do offer guaranteed success in spotting them.

Mount Gambier

Drive from Warrnambool to Mount Gambier : 2hr 7mins (182 kms)

Mount Gambier is the highlight of your Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. Bustling with geological wonders, Mount Gambier houses some of the most natural spectacular scenes. From the underground garden of Eden to the crystal blue water lakes, you can spend half a day exploring the wonders of Mount Gambier.

Popular activities to do in Mount Gambier include:

Discover Umpherston Sinkhole

Umpherston Sinkhole is a blissful, lush green park which houses beautiful garden spaces and traditional English plants. It’s one of the photogenic places of Mount Gambier, which was formed by millions of years of limestone corrosion. However, along with its natural process – James Umpherston ( a citizen of Mount Gambier) – converted the entire sinkhole into a beautiful underground sunken garden.

Explore the magical Blue Lake

Unravel one of the gorgeous attractions of the Limestone Coasts – Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake. This 72-metre-deep lake magically changes its colour into different shades of blue, which contrasts beautifully against the backdrop of the mighty coast. The best time to visit Blue Lake is between November to late February. Many lookout areas and vantage points are spread across the crater’s rim to give visitors the best possible view.

Marvel at Little Blue Lake

The lesser-known version of the famous Blue Lake – Little Blue Lake – is equally impressive and gorgeous. It is less crowded, which makes it perfect for tourists to enjoy swimming and diving. Even if you simply want to relax, the towering 10-metre limestone walls which guard the lake, making it sight-worthy for your eyes.

Explore the town of Robe

Drive from Mount Gambier to Robe : 1hr 26mins (128 kms)

Robe is one of the trendiest coastal towns in South Australia today. Just 90 minutes away from Mount Gambier, it’s a perfect place to stay, unwind and relax after a tiresome journey. Many visitors often tend to overlook this town, and often end up staying someplace else.

But in reality, Robe is seriously a good road trip stop. Given its luxuriant sandy beaches, dazzling cafes, bijou boutiques, and stunning coastal scenery, it’s hard to miss this place at any time.

As you soak up the sun relaxing at a beach, you’d tend to get a natural laidback Australia vibe. And essentially this is what visitors need after a tiresome road trip journey. Even if you don’t go out exploring much, there’s plenty to see within the area you stay. Historically, Robe was once the busiest shipping port in SA. And you could still its past resemblance through period buildings and old maritime structures.

Because it was a shipping port once, you’d definitely find some of the state’s finest seafood restaurants located. Some of the local’s favourites include Sails at Robe , Caledonian Inn , and Robe Seafood & Takeaway. The word is you shouldn’t miss out on trying their famous crayfish.

Where to stay in Robe, SA Budget : Sea Vu Caravan Park , Robe Marina Accommodation

Wander through Fleurieu Peninsula

Drive from Robe to Fleurieu Peninsula : 4hr 6mins (369 kms)

Fleurieu Peninsula is one of my favourite places to visit in South Australia. If you look at our Australian section, you’d see dozens of guides & resources being curated on this region. So, understandably – Fleurieu Peninsula is emerging as one of the hotspots of this amazing country. And that’s the reason why we thought this place should be listed on our Melbourne to Adelaide road trip stops.

This small-sized peninsula packs incredible things to see and do , with beautiful coastal villages, varied hiking trails, diverse native wildlife, and excellent culinary scenes. What pleases me the most is the contrast of crystal clear beaches with a backdrop of towering peaks and rugged landscapes. Such kind of setting opens up the door for visitors to venture into exploring opportunities.

Must Read | 10 Unique Places to Visit on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia

Fleurieu Peninsula is home to amazing attractions and some of the major ones include visiting Victor Harbor, Normanville Beach, Horseshoe Bay (Port Elliot), Port Willunga Beach, and Rapid Bay. For outdoor enthusiasts, Deep Creek National Park will offer an enriching experience of being in the wild. It is also one of South Australia’s beloved camping destinations. If you plan on spending a couple of days extra, then you could also add Onkaparinga River National Park to your itinerary.

What you shouldn’t miss doing in Fleurieu Peninsula is trying out the local cuisine. The region is best known for its classic fish & chips, and there’s no way you could miss the opportunity of sampling it. If you aren’t sure where to look, then this guide will help you in finding the best fish & chips. For a more indulging experience, we also have curated a guide on the best restaurants located in Fleurieu Peninsula.

Also Read | 5 Best Restaurants on the Fleurieu Peninsula

Visit McLaren Vale

Drive from Fleurieu Peninsula to McLaren Vale : 44 mins (51.9 kms)

Melbourne to Adelaide road trip isn’t only popular for its scenic attractions and sights, but also for acclaimed wine regions that remarkably mark their footprint in the culinary world. And there’s no better place than McLaren Vale to relax, unwind, and sample some of the deliciously locally produced wine.

McLaren Vale is only a 40-minute drive from Adelaide. It is regarded as the premier wine region of South Australia. With bushland, vineyards, cellar doors, and award-winning restaurants harbouring the entire region – it’s no wonder that McLaren Vale is also one of the best weekend destinations to explore.

McLaren Vale offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to wander off on their own. Be it sampling the local wines, or joining a guided tour to get an in-depth wine-making process – there are endless things to do here. You could also delve into their wine collections, explore cellar doors, hop into some local cuisine and shop their local farm produce. If you prefer outdoor adventure, then discover its many hiking and scenic walking trails.

Must Read | Explore five of the finest McLaren Vale’s wine trails and scenic walks

Apart from the normal things to see & do in this wine region, there are two main attractions which you shouldn’t miss at any cost – Down The Rabbit Hole  and  d’Arenberg Cube . These newly introduced attractions are notably worthwhile. To find out more, read this guide.

Book Excursion | McLaren Vale and Glenelg Wine Tasting Tour

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

We hope the above detailed road trip stops gave you a comprehensive idea of all the must-see places. However, its a hassle to plan and compile them into one single itinerary. To help you out with this, we created a custom sample itinerary of Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. This sample includes all the places, attractions & experiences listed in our above section.

Sample Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

Depart Melbourne Melbourne to the Great Otway National Park Overnight at park of Apollo Bay

Leave early morning from Otway Explore Port Campbell & the Twelve Apostles Head to Warrnambool Overnight at Warrnambool/ Port Campbell

Early morning checkout from Port Campbell Drive to Mount Gambier Exploration & sightseeing at Mount Gambier Overnight stay

Drive towards Robe Spend a relaxing day at this surfing town. Overnight stay

Head to Fleurieu Peninsula Explore McLaren Vale, Victor Harbor & other places Overnight stay

This custom curated five day Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary is perfect for all age-groups. The plan ensures that you visit all the top-rated attractions of Victoria and South Australia. If you need to check out a seperate itinerary for Great Ocean Road, then read this guide .

Popular Guided Tours & Excursions

Explore a range of vast activities, experential tours, and niche guided exursions with GetYourGuide . Our partnership with them brings amazing tours which can compliment your road trip well. With easy availability & affordable pricing, you can be sure of booking the right activity at the right price.

Further Readings & Resources

Love Australian road trips? Here are a couple of in-depth guides:

Great Ocean Road : The Ultimate Great Ocean Road Itinerary for 2 Days Whitsundays : Whitsundays Itinerary 7 Days: Ultimate Guide (+ Sailing Ideas, Tips) Airlie Beach: 3-Day Airlie Beach Itinerary | How to Spend 3 Days in Airlie Beach Flinders Ranges: The Ultimate Guide to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park

Explore Fleurieu Peninsula with us:

Experiences : Best Things to Do in the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia Where to Stay : 10 Gorgeous Places to Stay on the Fleurieu Peninsula Coastal Towns : 10 Unique Places to Visit on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

The Ultimate Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary

An Adelaide to Darwin road trip is undoubtedly one of the best in Australia. Travelling from the southern coast all the way to the northern coast through the middle of the country offers an extraordinary way of exploring the vast landscapes that Australia has to offer.

The Stuart Highway is the main road that links Port Augusta in South Australia with Darwin in the Northern Territory. As one of the longest and loneliest highways in Australia, it’s an incredible adventure. Taking in the variety of desert landscapes from the Flinders Ranges and Coober Pedy to Uluru and Alice Springs , it’s one of the most memorable road trips I’ve ever done.

If you drive direct from Adelaide to Darwin, it’s just over 3,000km. So, it’s not a short little roadie. But if you take your time, you’ll be able to stop along the way at all the incredible things to do and see (which will also mean you’ll cover much more than 3,000km!).

I feel fortunate enough to have taken my first van on an Adelaide to Darwin road trip. A trip that took me about four months to complete at a slow pace. In this post, I’m going to detail all the best things to do on the Stuart Highway that you should add to your road trip itinerary. How long you decide to take is up to you, but never rush through the Aussie outback because there’s so much to appreciate about it!

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

Best Time of Year to Drive the Stuart Highway

While you can drive the Stuart Highway at any time of the year, I’d recommend planning this road trip for the dry season (winter months) from April to October . This is because the Flinders Ranges, Coober Pedy, Central Australia and the Top End all see extreme heat during the warmer summer months, plus the Northern Territory also experiences a monsoon season during summer.

Sometimes the highway can be flooded during the monsoon, so you should always check ahead if you’re driving at this time. Most of the swimming spots in the Northern Territory are also closed due to flooding and crocodile risk in the summer months, so it also limits what you can see and do.

Whereas in the winter , temperatures are moderate during the day with clear skies for the most part. However, it does get quite cold overnight, especially out in the desert at Uluru, Alice Springs and Flinders Ranges. You’ll have be prepared for all temperatures when travelling in winter.

Essential Road Trip Tips for the Stuart Highway

• Distances are vast on long straight highways like the Stuart Highway, with very little to look at, don’t forget to take frequent stops to rest and stretch your legs
• Avoid driving at night , as this only increases the chance of accidents, especially with wildlife
• Watch out for animals on the road, especially in the early morning and late evening
• Be careful of road trains and other large trucks which can be travelling at high speeds and are much larger than the trucks you’ll be used to on the east coast or elsewhere
• Much of the Stuart Highway is remote with little facilities along the way, so plan each day ahead to be aware of stops, toilets, and fuel
• Check fuel frequently, as sometimes the distances between fuel stations is long. However, there are roadhouses nicely spaced along the highway that you shouldn’t need to carry extra fuel at any time
• Make sure you have roadside assistance so that you can get help anywhere along the Stuart Highway at any time
• Don’t forget about obtaining national park passes for both South Australia and Northern Territory before departing so you can explore all the best parts on this road trip
• Download a GPS map offline such as Google Maps or Maps.Me, as phone signal can be pretty scarce especially on the remote highways and in national parks

Note: This post is really aimed at those travelling with a 2WD vehicle and for sticking to the main roads. If you have a 4×4, there’s many other variations you can add, such as the Oodnadatta Track (SA), Mereenie Loop (NT), and Arnhem Land (NT).

Road Trip Essentials

• Reusable coffee cup
• Reef safe sunscreen
• First aid kit
• Refillable water bottle
• Walking shoes
• Healthy snacks

Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary: Stops on the Stuart Highway

If you’re planning an Adelaide to Darwin road trip, there’s so much to see and do along the way. You can use these suggestions to help plan out your trip, depending on how much time you have. Here’s everywhere I think you should stop as you travel north from Adelaide to Darwin on the Stuart Highway:

Adelaide 

Adelaide is the obvious place to start this road trip to Darwin. As the laidback capital of South Australia, it’s an easy city to explore with plenty of things to do in and around the CBD if you have some time. Located on the St Vincent Gulf, Adelaide is known for its access to beautiful parks, beaches, markets and festivals.

Whether you simply pass through Adelaide on your way from the east coast or plan to spend a couple of days checking out the city, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the friendly and vibrant vibe.

Some of my favourite things to do in Adelaide include:

• Adelaide Botanic Garden
• Adelaide Central Market and Chinatown
• Rundle Mall
• Glenelg Beach
• Morialta Conservation Park
• Mount Lofty Summit
• Belair National Park
• Onkaparinga River National Park
• McLaren Vale Wine Region

Read next: 10 Best Places to Visit on Fleurieu Peninsula

Side trip: Flinders Ranges

Distance from Adelaide: 440km or 5.5 hour drive

Lying north of Adelaide on the edge of the outback, the Flinders Ranges is one of my favourite places in Australia. With rocky, rugged ranges soaring out of the arid landscape for as far as the eye can see, it’s an imposing and spectacular sight.

While people short on time may prefer to skip the Flinders Ranges and head from Adelaide to Port Augusta to jump onto the Stuart Highway to Darwin, I HIGHLY recommend you allow at least a couple of days for the Flinders Ranges.

There’s actually a few different parts of the Flinders that you can explore. The obvious and most beautiful part is the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. Centered around Wilpena Pound Resort , this stunning national park will blow you away with its beauty. From hikes to 4×4 drives and Aboriginal cultural tours, there’s plenty to do in the national park.

If you have even more time, then while you’re travelling down from Wilpena Pound to Port Augusta, stop in Quorn and explore parts of the Southern Flinders Ranges , including Mount Remarkable and Alligator Gorge. My individual posts have plenty more information about exploring the Flinders Ranges, including the 12 best hikes to do .

Read next: Ultimate Guide to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park

Port Augusta

Distance from Wilpena Pound: 160km or 2 hour drive

The port city of Port Augusta has become one of Australia’s major road and rail intersections. Situated at the top of the Spencer Gulf and just over 320km from Adelaide, it’s a major thoroughfare as road trains, trucks, caravans, vans and cars pass through on their way north, west or east.

Port Augusta is the official southern end of the Stuart Highway, which continues north all the way to Darwin. At the same intersection, you’ll also find the Eyre Highway which continues west over to Western Australia, and the Augusta Highway which leads down to Adelaide. It’s also where the Flinders Ranges Way begins, heading up to Quorn, Hawker and Wilpena Pound.

There’s not a whole lot to do in Port Augusta. However, after coming from the Flinders Ranges, it can be a convenient place to stop for the night before heading up the more remote Stuart Highway to Coober Pedy.

If you have time to kill, check out some of these things in Port Augusta:

• Wadlata Outback Centre
• Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden
• Matthew Flinders Red Cliff Lookout

Coober Pedy

Distance from Port Augusta: 540km or 6 hour drive

What can I say, Coober Pedy is an absolute must visit on an Adelaide to Darwin road trip. As one of the most unique towns in all of Australia, the mining outpost is all things quirky, bizarre and beautiful. It’s well known as the Opal Capital of the World, with more than half of the world’s opals coming from the mines around the town. You’ll start to see mounds of soil and holes in the ground as you approach Coober Pedy from the south.

It’s also the only major town between Port Augusta and  Alice Springs  on the Stuart Highway, making it an important stop for travellers. It becomes a pretty lonely outback highway quite quickly as you leave Port Augusta and head for Coober Pedy. In fact, the only stops between the two towns are  Spud’s Roadhouse  at Pimba and  Glendambo Roadhouse . Both offer fuel, food and accommodation.

If you want to stop en route for the night, Spud’s Roadhouse request a $5 donation to camp overnight with toilets and showers. I also had good Optus phone reception there. Glendambo have a caravan park next to the pub with powered and unpowered sites, for around $30 per night.

Once you arrive in Coober Pedy, you should plan to spend at least a couple of nights in town. Some of my favourite things to do in Coober Pedy, include:

• Old Timer’s Mine
• Sunset from The Big Winch
• Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park
• Stay in an underground hotel

Read next: 10 Unique Things to Do in Coober Pedy

Erldunda/Ghan

Distance from Coober Pedy: 486km or 5 hour drive

From Coober Pedy, it’s just under 400km to the Northern Territory border. There’s only a couple of places to stop in between: Cadney Park Homestead  and  Marla . Cadney Park has a caravan park with sites between $30-40. They also offer fuel and food. Marla Roadhouse has fuel and a pub, plus a caravan park starting from $10 per person per night.

Once you cross into the Northern Territory, the first roadhouse is at  Kulgera , with fuel, food and accommodation. Then you have  Erldunda Roadhouse . This popular roadhouse is an ideal place to stop for the night on the Stuart Highway, as it’s at the turnoff for the Lasseter Highway which leads to Uluru and Kata Tjuta. They also offer food and fuel.

Side trip: Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Distance from Erldunda: 250km or 3 hour drive

From Erldunda, you’ll want to take your first diversion off the Stuart Highway and onto what is referred to as the Red Centre Way . Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a once in a lifetime destination and one of the most breathtaking places in Australia. An Adelaide to Darwin road trip would not be complete without a trip to Uluru and Kings Canyon.

Once you turn onto the Lasseter Highway, it’s only about 3 hours to Yulara, the main town and base for exploring Uluru.

A couple of spots worth stopping at along the way are:  Mt Conner Lookout Rest Area , which offers a nice view across to Mt Connor or  Atila , and  Curtin Springs Wayside Inn , which is a fuel station, bar and restaurant. 

Once you get to Yulara , there are plenty of accommodation options, restaurants and a few shops, including a fuel station. In high season it’s worth booking in advance, otherwise you’ll be out in the overflow campground like me (although it is cheaper).

I would recommend allowing three days to really appreciate the park. There’s plenty to see and do, including:

• Free ranger guided Mala walk
• 10km Uluru base walk/cycle
• 7.5 km Valley of the Winds walk at Kata Tjuta
• Uluru car sunset viewing spot
• Uluru Sunrise Viewing Platform/Talinguru Nyakunytjaku
• Kata Tjuta Dune Viewing Sunrise spot

Continue reading: The Ultimate Guide to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Side trip: Watarrka-Kings Canyon National Park

Distance from Yulara:  304km or 3.5 hour drive

As you continue on the Red Centre Way , you should allow another couple of days to explore Watarrka-Kings Canyon National Park. You have to head back along Lasseter Highway and then take the turnoff towards Watarrka National Park on Luritja Road.

The main place to stay and base for exploring the national park is Kings Canyon Resort. They have a large caravan park, a swimming pool and toilet and shower blocks. If you’re not a camper, then they also have resort accommodation with private rooms and glamping available. There’s a restaurant, petrol station and basic shop on site too.

A couple of days is generally enough to take in the canyon area. Here are the best things to do:

• 6km Kings Canyon Rim walk
• 2.6km Kings Creek walk
• 2.6km Kathleen Springs walk
• Sunset from Kings Canyon Resort viewing platform

Continue reading: How to Visit Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park

Alice Springs

Distance from Watarrka National Park: 474 km or 5.5 hour drive

Alice Springs is the main town in Central Australia and an absolute must stop on the Stuart Highway. From Kings Canyon, you’ll have to head back to Erldunda Roadhouse and then continue on the Stuart Highway north to Alice Springs.

There’s everything that you’ll need in town, from caravan parks to hotels and plenty of shops, cafes and supermarkets. If you have the time, it’s worth staying a couple of days in Alice Springs to explore the town and relax after some long driving days.

Then, allow at least another couple of days to explore the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges, and if you have time, the East MacDonnell Ranges as well.

Read next: 10 Best Things to Do in Alice Springs

Side trip: West MacDonnell Ranges / Tjoritja

An absolute highlight of any Adelaide to Darwin road trip is the West Macs. This incredible national park draws some similarities to the Flinders Ranges, with expansive, rugged mountain ranges soaring out of the desert.

The ranges also hide gorges, gaps and water holes that can easily be explored from Alice Springs. Most of the sights and attractions are all located on Larapinta and Namatjira Drive, making it easy to get around for all vehicles. 

While you can technically head out there on a day trip, it’s worth staying at least a night or longer to really appreciate the true beauty of the area. There are national park campgrounds at Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek, Ormiston Gorge and Redbank Gorge or you can also stay at the Glen Helen Resort.

Some of the highlights of the West MacDonnell Ranges include:

• Simpsons Gap
• Standley Chasm
• Ellery Creek Big Hole
• Ormiston Gorge and Ormiston Pound Walk
• Redbank Gorge

Read more: Complete Guide to the West MacDonnell Ranges / Tjoritja

Side trip: East MacDonnell Ranges

While the West MacDonnell Ranges get all the fame, the East Macs are just as spectacular. Home to sacred Arrernte sites, deep gorges, water holes and some varied walks, you can easily extend your visit for longer than a day.

Most of the main attractions are off the Ross Highway, and can be done in one long day trip from Alice Springs. However, I would recommend camping at least a night, preferably at Trephina Gorge. This would give you more time to complete some of the walks as well, which I highly recommend.

Some of the best things to see in the East Macs are:

• Emily and Jessie Gaps/Yeperenye
• Corroboree Rock
• Trephina Gorge
• 10km Ridgetop Walk

Read more: A Guide to Exploring the East MacDonnell Ranges

Karlu Karlu-Devils Marbles

Distance from Alice Springs: 403 km or 4 hour drive

Another must see on the Stuart Highway is Devils Marbles. A sacred site known as Karlu Karlu in the language of the Traditional Owners the Warumungu people, this boulder strewn field is one of the most unique sights in the Aussie outback.

Especially spectacular at sunset and sunrise, this incredible landscape makes for the perfect rest stop as you travel from Alice Springs north to Katherine. There is a basic campground right at the site, making it one of the most popular places to stop. Book in advance if you want to secure a site. If you don’t get a spot, then try down the road at Devils Marbles Hotel and Roadhouse.

I camped here on my way north and south again. It’s worth exploring at sunset and again at sunrise to really soak in the incredible outback colours.

Daly Waters

Distance from Karlu Karlu: 511 km or 6 hour drive

This famous little spot on the Stuart Highway is well-known for its pub. Built in 1930, the pub is a quirky place decorated in corrugated iron and crammed with decades of memorabilia, which road trippers love to stop and peruse.

The pub offers accommodation ranging from safari tents to cabins and camping. It can get crazy busy in high season, so arrive early if you want a spot. The meals and drinks are served all day at the pub, which is always bustling with people despite the tiny population surrounding it.

Distance from Daly Waters: 170 km or 2 hour drive

Mataranka has become one of the most popular stops on the Stuart Highway in Northern Territory all thanks to its famous hot springs. With natural thermal pools and swimming spots amongst a dense monsoon forest and campgrounds not far away, it’s definitely a highlight of any road trip.

Mataranka is the main town near Elsey National Park which covers the Mataranka Thermal Pools and Bitter Springs. It’s a small town with not too much to offer, but there are two main places that people stay.

Mataranka Homestead is right next to the Mataranka Thermal Pool and Rainbow Springs and is the more well-known spot. I stayed at Bitter Springs Cabins and Camping which is right near Bitter Springs Thermal Pool and a more rustic place. Either way, you should allow a night here to visit both springs and pools.

Distance from Mataranka: 115 km or 1.5 hour drive

Katherine is one of the largest towns in the Northern Territory. Located on the Stuart Highway south of Darwin, there are several incredible sights to see nearby which make it a must stop. Sitting on the banks of the Katherine River and on the outskirts of the expansive Nitmiluk National Park, it’s perfectly described as where the outback meets the Top End tropics.

While the town itself doesn’t offer a whole lot itself other than the Katherine Hot Springs, it does make a great base for exploring Nitmiluk National Park.

Side trip: Nitmiluk National Park – Katherine Gorge

Distance from Katherine: 30km or 30 minute drive

Nitmiluk National Park is home to the iconic Katherine Gorge, one of the main attractions in the Northern Territory. As the traditional land of the Jawoyn people, this national park is characterised by 13 connected gorges, Aboriginal rock art, and natural swimming holes and waterfalls that can be explored either on foot or by boat.

The Nitmiluk Visitor Centre is the gateway to the park and just half an hour drive from Katherine. You can either choose to stay in Katherine or there are also accommodation options right at the visitor centre if you want to stay closer and explore earlier in the morning (not a bad option to beat the intense heat).

While many people simply visit for a day, there’s actually plenty of things to do that you could explore for at least two days or longer. If you like hiking, there’s also a couple of multi-day hikes that I’ve done inside the park that are worth planning for too.

My favourite things to do in Nitmiluk National Park include:

• Katherine Gorge Boat Cruise (2 hours long)
• Butterfly Gorge Loop Walk
• 5-6 day Jatbula Trail Hike
• 3 day Southern Walks Hike

Read more: A Complete Guide to Nitmiluk National Park – Katherine Gorge

Edith Falls

Distance from Katherine: 60km or 40 minute drive

As you leave Katherine and continue north on the Stuart Highway, there’s another stop which is technically still inside Nitmiluk National Park that is worth making. Edith Falls or Leliyn is a set of cascading falls and natural swimming holes in the western part of the national park.

Accessed off the Stuart Highway just north of Katherine, you can either do this as a day trip from Katherine or spend the night at Edith Falls in the campground. Seasonal swimming is allowed in the main pool at the base of the falls, as well as many smaller pools further up the river which are accessible on foot. In the wet season, it’s generally closed due to risk of crocodiles creeping in from the floods.

Not only is it a great swimming spot in the dry season, but there are also a couple of walks to do. Leliyn Trail Loop Walk is about 2.6km and provides access to smaller pools higher up the gorge. You can also head even further to Sweetwater Pool, which is 9km return. It’s worth spending a night in the campground, which is a basic bush camp right near the kiosk.

Read more: An Essential Guide to Edith Falls / Leliyn

Side trip: Litchfield National Park

Distance from Katherine: 280 km or 3 hour drive

If you enjoyed swimming in Edith Falls, then you’ll have an absolute blast in Litchfield National Park. As many people’s favourite national park in the Northern Territory, it’s a must visit. The ancient sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range is carved out by tumbling waterfalls, natural swimming holes and magnetic termite mounds. 

There are also a couple of great campgrounds inside the park, so you can stay the night and enjoy the swimming spots even when all the day trippers have gone. As you come up from Katherine, you’ll have to turn off the Stuart Highway to your left onto Batchelor Road which then becomes Litchfield Park Road.

You can then make a loop through the national park, stopping off at some of the popular spots like Florence Falls, Tjaetaba Falls, Wangi Falls, Buley Rockhole and The Cascades. You can then continue driving around through Berry Springs (an incredible natural swimming spot outside the national park), and back onto the Stuart Highway just south of Darwin. It’s a very worthwhile detour.

Staying a night at either Florence Falls campground or Wangi Falls campground is highly recommended, so you can really enjoy the national park and visit all the best spots. I stayed a week in the park, which was a nice and relaxing time after days of driving.

Read more: Best Swimming Spots and Waterfalls in Litchfield National Park

Now you’ve made it to Darwin! The capital of the Northern Territory and the northernmost end of the Stuart Highway. Darwin may be small compared to other cities in Australia, but it definitely makes up for it with character, atmosphere and culture.

I loved my month in Darwin and really came to appreciate the uniqueness of the NT. I definitely recommend at least a couple of days in Darwin itself. There’s actually come great things to do, especially in the dry season when the city comes to life with festivals and markets on almost daily.

But you’ll also want to leave enough time for one last side trip to Kakadu National Park. This is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the Northern Territory and a must visit for at least a couple of days.

My favourite things to do in Darwin include:

• Mindil Beach Sunset Market
• Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
• Darwin Military Museum
• George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
• Darwin Waterfront Lagoon

Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Darwin and the Top End

Side trip: Kakadu National Park

Distance fro Darwin: 150 km or 2 hour drive

Kakadu National Park is one of 20 UNESCO World Heritage Listed places in Australia, in recognition of both its natural and cultural values. As the traditional home of the Bininj/Mungguy people, who have lived in the region for tens of thousands of years, it’s one of the most spiritual places in Australia.

It’s characterised by rocky escarpments, thundering waterfalls and floodplains of Arnhem Land. It’s also one of the most biodiverse places in the country, with millions of migratory birds and the intimidating saltwater crocodiles.

I highly recommend at least a couple of days to explore Kakadu properly. With a 2WD, you’ll be able to see most of the main attractions with a night spent at Jabiru, the main town in the park. Otherwise, with a 4WD, you’ll be able to explore much deeper into Arnhem Land and should allow more than a few days.

Some of the most favourite places to visit in Kakadu include:

• Ubirr Rock Art at sunset
• Mamukala Wetlands
• Cahills Crossing for croc spotting
• Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) rock art site
• Nawurlandja Lookout at sunset
• Yellow Water Wetlands boat cruise

Read more: A Travel Guide to Kakadu National Park

How Long to Spend Driving Adelaide to Darwin

At a minimum you need two weeks to drive from Adelaide to Darwin, but even two weeks would not be enough time to actually see many of the sights and spend time enjoying all there is to do. I’d recommend allowing at least three weeks , but longer would be even better.

Allow at least a week to get from Adelaide to the Northern Territory border. Then, allow at least two weeks to travel from the border to Darwin, taking in the sights.

If you’re short on time, you could cut out Flinders Ranges, East MacDonnell Ranges, Mataranka and shorten your time in Nitmiluk National Park. But I’d recommend visiting all of these places if you can.

More Epic Road Trips in Australia

• Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip: Ultimate 2 Week Coastal Itinerary
• Ultimate Road Trip Guide to the Great Ocean Road
• Red Centre Way Road Trip Itinerary

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[…] Read next: The Ultimate Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary […]

[…] it’s a long drive from virtually anywhere else in Australia, it’s a major stop on the Stuart Highway, which connects Adelaide and Darwin. From Alice Springs, you can journey out to some of the best […]

[…] way from virtually anywhere. Located on the Stuart Highway it’s an important stop for travellers driving from Adelaide to Darwin, but it’s certainly not a short drive away. You can reach Coober Pedy from Port Augusta in the […]

[…] between towns are not as vast as the Adelaide to Darwin road trip, but you should still schedule regular breaks or opt for this two week itinerary below which […]

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Adelaide to Melbourne Road Trip – 3 Scenic Driving Routes

Embarking on an Adelaide to Melbourne road trip is an incredible way to explore the diverse beauty of South Australia and Victoria.

Whether you take the coastal route to view the magnificent scenery of the Great Ocean Road and the rocky limestone stacks that comprise the Twelve Apostles or head inland to stunning national parks and through lush, rural landscapes filled with quaint small towns is up to you.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the adventure, exploring the different routes from the capital of Southern Australia to the capital of Victoria. We’ll highlight the must-see attractions, and best activities to do with kids along the way.

So get your travel planner app ready, and let’s get going!

What is the Distance Between Adelaide to Melbourne?

How long is the drive from adelaide to melbourne, best time of year for the adelaide to melbourne drive, 1. m8/a8 – most direct route adelaide to melbourne, 2. dimboola detour – adelaide to melbourne drive via bendigo, 3. princes highway/great ocean road – adelaide to melbourne, more tips for road tripping adelaide to melbourne, where to next more aussie road trip adventures.

If you were to drive Adelaide to Melbourne via the most direct route, it would take you approximately 8 hours non-stop to cover the 750 km distance. Doing this will take you through the heart of rural Victoria and South Australia.

Alternatively, you could detour at Dimboola in Victoria, eventually leading you to the historic town of Bendigo before heading into Melbourne via the A79 and then M79. Going this way will add about 15 minutes to a non-stop drive time.

If you want to stick to the magnificent coastal route of the Princes Highway and Great Ocean Road, a non-stop drive will take at least 10 hours. Although probably longer, because you are sure to want to slow down to enable you to observe the spectacular views.

While you can complete a road trip from Adelaide to Melbourne in a day via the National Highway route, you should factor at least two or three days into your schedule to make the most of it. Doing so will allow you to experience some of the journey’s main highlights.

At the same time, if you plan to go from Adelaide to Melbourne via Great Ocean Road, you could easily spend a week taking in the delights of the Victoria and South Australian coastlines.

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Essentially, whichever way you go, the more time you can set aside for the journey, the better.

• Before you leave Adelaide, make sure you’ve tried some of these sensational road trips in South Australia

With children in tow, the best time of year to drive from Adelaide to Melbourne is during autumn ( March to May ) and spring ( September to November ). The summer months are the most popular but also the most crowded and expensive.

During spring or autumn, the weather is milder and more pleasant, and there is less risk of extreme heat or cold weather. Most children locally are also in school, so hotel prices are lower, and traffic on the road is less.

Additionally, it’s a great time to enjoy the changing landscape colours as the leaves turn from green to varying shades of gold, red and orange.

If you go during these times, be mindful that weather conditions can still be unpredictable, so taking different layers of clothing with you is always a good idea.

Best Stops on an Adelaide to Melbourne Road Trip

It’s a long drive from Adelaide to Melbourne, so you may need to stop at some point during your journey. Here are some of the best places you should visit depending on which route you take.

If time is of the essence and you want to take the most direct route along National Highway A8 be sure to stop at the following places:

• Make sure you’ve ticked off all the best things there are to see and do in Adelaide with kids before you set off!

Murray Bridge

Although Murray Bridge is only an hour’s drive from Adelaide, it is worth stopping overnight as it provides some of the best opportunities for stargazing in the country.

Blessed with a stunning natural landscape, the Murray Bridge Riverside Caravan Park is one of the best spots for stargazing in the area. It has a terrific platform within its serene, open-air setting to enjoy a stargazing adventure.

The kids will no doubt be wowed by the night sky’s clarity, enabling them to see various stars and constellations. For those living in urban areas with more light pollution, it is an exhilarating experience. Visitors can also attend the Murray Bridge Astronomical Society’s public stargazing events, where experienced astronomers provide a guided night sky tour through telescopes and binoculars.

During the day, take the kids to the Murray Bridge Swimming Centre . It has a 50-metre pool as well as shaded children’s pools. Monarto Safari Park is also worth visiting. The largest safari park outside of Africa, it has lions, giraffes, cheetahs, black rhinoceros and the Tasmanian Devils to see!

Grampians National Park

Crossing over into Victoria, The Grampians National Park is a fabulous place to visit for active families with children.

For those into hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife watching, there are plenty of opportunities to partake in these activities – in fact, we’d allow a few days if you can!

Children will be fascinated by the ancient rock formations within the park and keen to learn more about its rich Aboriginal history. Some of the easier walks to undertake with kids include Venus Baths and The Balconies Lookout.

You can also take scenic drives to see more of the park’s stunning landscape, enjoy picnics, and go camping.

On a warm summer’s day, there are several swimming pools where you can take a dip, some of which are at the foot of waterfalls. You will also see lots of kangaroos bouncing around on the grasslands!

Nearby, the lovely town of Halls Gap has a beautiful adventure playground for kids to enjoy and there are lots of bakeries and cafes to feed your little ones along your journey.

If you’re making it an overnight stop, try Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park or The Lodges are superbly located in the centre of town.

Ballarat in Victoria is a historic destination that offers plenty to see and do for those with children.

One of its main attractions is Sovereign Hill , which offers visitors the chance to step back in time to the 1850s and experience life as a gold miner.

Kids can watch blacksmithing, candle making, and traditional cooking demonstrations, providing a fascinating living history lesson. They can also pan for gold and keep anything they find!

Another big draw is the Ballarat Wildlife Park , where you can see many native Australian animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and emus. Kids can even feed and pat some of the animals.

Additionally, the Eureka Centre is also worth a visit. There you can learn about the historic Eureka Rebellion and its role in shaping Australian democracy. You can also browse for souvenirs at its gift shop.

Again, if your itinerary permits, we’d spare at least 2 night stopping in Ballarat as there’s plenty for kids to see and do. We suggest Sovereign Park Motor Inn is a good choice for families with in indoor pool,

From Ballarat to Melbourne, it is only around a 90-minute drive to complete your journey.

If you take the detour at Dimboola and then eventually get to Melbourne via the A79 / M79. Taking this route, you will visit historic Bendigo.

Bendigo is renowned for being a terrific destination for a family holiday. One of the main things to do there is visit the Central Deborah Gold Mine , where you can take an underground mine tour and learn about the history of gold mining in the area.

Another terrific activity is riding on the Bendigo Tramways , which involves journeying on a vintage tram through the city streets.

Your kids should also love exploring the Bendigo Botanic Gardens , which has a children’s playground and a scenic lily-covered lake. 

Picturesque Lake Weeroona is also a lovely spot for a day out in nature. You can enjoy a picnic, paddleboat ride, swim or play ball sports in its grassy areas. In fact, Bendigo is a treasure trove of kids playgrounds!

For those wanting a spot of culture, the Bendigo Art Gallery presents several exhibitions throughout the year.

Make a stop here overnight before continuing the last leg of your journey through the Macedon Ranges. A great spot to stop is at the Woodend Bakery – a must! – before you reach Melbourne.

Although the coastal route takes a little longer, the fact you get to drive Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road is the huge drawcard of making this detour.

Top Tip: With an extra day at least in your itinerary, we’d head to the Fleurieu Peninsula first, take in the Maclaren Vale Wine Region for some cellar door tastings and the Limestone Coast. Longer again, you could also fit in a few days at Kangaroo Island.

Mount Gambier

Just before you reach the border of Victoria, you will come to Mount Gambier . It is worth stopping at this picturesque city as it offers plenty for families with kids.

One of its main drawcards is its stunning natural wonders, which include the Blue Lake and the Umpherston Sinkhole.

The Blue Lake is especially impressive during the summer when the water turns a bright turquoise colour – hence its name. At this time, you can swim, sunbathe and picnic here, and there is plenty of space for little ones to run around safely.

Kids should also enjoy exploring the limestone caves at the Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park and the Engelbrecht Cave . The Mount Gambier Railway Lands is another excellent family-friendly destination, boasting playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.

After the best part of five hours of driving, head to the Mount Gambier Marketplace and Main Corner Complex, which offer several shops and entertainment options for the whole family.

Drive the Great Ocean Road

Driving the Great Ocean Road to see the Twelve Apostles will surely be the major highlight of your road trip Adelaide to Melbourne.

The scenic drive starts from the beautiful fishing village of Port Fairy, and the coastal road hugs the Southern Ocean through to Torquay, a renowned surfing destination in Victoria.

Port Fairy & Warrnambool

Before embarking on this stretch of the drive, it is worth stopping at Port Fairy . It has some terrific beaches, parks and the iconic Griffiths Island Lighthouse to check out, which offers spectacular views of the ocean and the town.

As you drive the Great Ocean Road, make sure you stop at some of the small coastal towns along the way. One of the best of them is Warrnambool, home to The Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground – a must-visit attraction for those with kids, offering a range of activities like mini-golf, giant slides, and flying foxes.

It also has a lovely beach and between June and September you may even get lucky with spotting Southern Right Whales on their migratory journey.

Other notable towns to pop into include Peterborough and Port Campbell (another cool little playground!). Loch Ard Gorge is also an unmissable stop along the rugged coastline, as is London Bridge (London Arch).

Twelve Apostles Marine National Park

Your next stop must be at the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park on the Great Ocean Road.

As its name suggests, it is home to the iconic Twelve Apostles rock formations (of which there are only actually seven left!).

To see these magnificent limestone rock formations, various hiking trails in the park provide fantastic views and prime photography spots of them and the more expansive coastline.

Children can also enjoy spotting unique wildlife species such as echidnas, kangaroos, and bird species. Plenty of fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities exist on its various beaches.

Once you’ve had your fill of taking in the Twelve Apostles, make sure you head to the nearby visitor centre. There you will find fascinating educational exhibits on the park’s history and ecology, making it an ideal spot for kids to learn more about the natural world.

Great Otway National Park

Another great place for families to visit on the coastal route from Adelaide to Melbourne is the Great Otway National Park .

It features a diverse range of landscapes covering over 100,000 hectares of land, including rugged coastlines, towering forests, and picturesque waterfalls that you’ll find captivating.

Kids will love exploring the park’s many hiking trails, which wind through beautiful forests and lead to stunning lookout points. Some popular trails include the Triplet Falls Walk , the Beauchamp Falls Walk , and the Cape Otway Lightstation Walk . Each showcases the park’s spectacular landscape differently, presenting fantastic opportunities to spot koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies.

For those with teenagers looking for adventure, the park also offers activities such as mountain biking, horseback riding, and canoeing, allowing your family to enjoy a sensational day out in nature.

Nearby Apollo Bay is a quaint town at the foothills of the Otway Ranges, with several good cafes and eateries catering to families. There is also a nice playground there for children to enjoy and makes the ideal stopping point along a Great Ocean Road trip.

We’ve only touches on the highlights of the Great Ocean Road here, stay tuned as next month we’ll be sharing our complete Great Ocean Road itinerary, including fabulous stops at Lorne, Erskine Falls, Airey’s Inlet, Split Point Lighthouse, and Torquay.

Just over an hour before you get to Melbourne, you’ll hit upon the vibrant city of Geelong. Although you may be keen to head on to ‘The Settlement’, it is worth exploring what Geelong offers for tourists with children.

One of the best places to visit is the Eastern Beach Reserve , which offers beautiful views of the bay and has a variety of play areas for children to make the most of.

For those who want to stretch their legs, the Geelong Botanic Gardens is another attractive option, as it features a stunning sensory garden and a greenhouse with several plant species. Alternatively, if your children have more energy to burn, a few hours at the Adventure Park – one of the biggest water parks in Victoria –  should do the trick. There you’ll find several water slides and pools.

Animal lovers should head to the Jirrahlinga Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary , where kids can see and learn about various native Australian animals. Geelong also has excellent skate parks, basketball courts and panic rooms if your kids are into those activities.

From Geelong, you are a little over an hour away from your final destination, Melbourne!

• Pop over here next for our complete guide to exploring Melbourne with kids – including tips for getting about in the centre of town and suggested areas to stay
• The twists and turns of the road from Adelaide to Melbourne on the Princes Highway and Great Ocean Road are quite sharp. So, pay particular attention to the speed limits and drive sensibly as you approach them – and passengers who suffer from motion sickness may want to be prepared!
• When visiting national parks, be mindful of the native wildlife as you drive. Kangaroos and wallabies are known to hop in front of your vehicle without warning!
• For the same reason, we recommend avoiding driving around dusk in country Australia as this is when ‘roo strikes are most likely to happen.
• Make sure to pop over to our Australia road trip planning guide for all our top tips on driving through country Australia.

Don’t miss our complete collection of Aussie city guides for families:

ADELAIDE | BRISBANE | CAIRNS | CANBERRA | DARWIN | GOLD COAST | MELBOURNE | PERTH | SYDNEY

Once you’ve completed the drive from Adelaide to Melbourne, you may also be interested in:

• Easy journeys from Melbourne by car – escape the big smoke and check out these day trip and weekender ideas around the state of Victoria
• Driving from Melbourne to Sydney – we take you on both the inland route up the Hume Highway and the more scenic coastal route, past beach towns including Lakes Entrance and Jervis Bay.
• Drive to the country’s capital on this scenic Melbourne to Canberra road trip through country Victoria and southern New South Wales.
• Hop on the Spirit of Tasmania and cross the Bass Stright to take an incredible self-drive holiday through Tasmania .

© Family Road Trip

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