Your Ultimate Guide to Adelaide 

Adelaide in a nutshell

Adelaide is a cool little capital with plenty to keep you entertained as long as you choose to stay. Crammed with great things to see, taste and do, the CBD is a blend of striking architecture, narrow bar-lined laneways, unexpected street art and mouth-watering restaurants, all surrounding by sweeping parklands. This surprising boutique capital is the gateway to South Australia’s wine regions with Adelaide Hills, Barossa and Fleurieu Peninsula within an hour’s drive of the CBD.

Museums and art galleries add a sprinkle of culture to the mix and interlaced leafy parks make for a peaceful cityscape. What’s more, there are plenty of hotels in Adelaide catering for a diverse range of visitors. There’s something for everyone in the South Australian capital, and we haven’t even mentioned the beaches and hills yet!

Because Adelaide isn’t just a city; it’s the centre point of two completely different worlds. Head 20 minutes east and you’re in the Adelaide Hills, winding through green valleys, tiny towns, family wineries and viewpoints that look back over the city and out to sea.

The hikes are endless, the wildlife is everywhere and the scenery feels almost too good to be that close to the CBD.

Swing the other way and you hit the coastline in minutes. Adelaide’s seaside suburbs buzz with cafés, pubs and places to linger, all wrapped around long sandy beaches and clear, calm water.

Keep driving south and the Fleurieu Peninsula ramps things up with dramatic cliffs, big surf and vineyards rolling right down to the ocean.

If you’re planning a trip, stick around for our accommodation picks at the end. From luxe city hotels to boutique apartments and heritage stays, there’s something for every type of traveller, plus a few great-value offers to help you make the most of your Adelaide escape.

Things to do in Adelaide

Ready to see why Adelaide quietly wins people over? Here are the things that make it happen.

Explore Adelaide Zoo

Adelaide Zoo is Australia’s second oldest zoo! Operated on a non-profit basis, the zoo is home to a great deal of amazing animals from across the world.

A playground, cafe and lots of great experiences and talks throughout the day are plenty to keep you busy. Adelaide Zoo is located in the parklands just north of the city centre of Adelaide.

Don’t miss the giraffe feed and panda talk!

Walk amongst the trees

Looking for an adrenaline sport? Adelaide Tree Climb is an exciting adventure park nestled in the lush greenery of South Australia. With towering eucalyptus trees as its backdrop, this unique attraction offers an exhilarating experience for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

Visitors can test their agility and endurance on a variety of high ropes courses, ziplines, and challenging obstacles. So, get ready to swing, climb, and soar, and create unforgettable memories in this outdoor playground!

Visit Adelaide Central Market

Hip and teeming with locals, Adelaide Central Market is a key component to a great Adelaide getaway to-do list. Stalls selling fresh local produce including mounds of fruits and vegetables, sweets, chocolates, eggs, cheeses and olive oils overflow here.

Walk around and nibble on some samples provided by stallholders. Patisseries, cafes and multicultural food stalls tempt the senses as you stroll the numerous aisles. If you can’t Kangaroo Island anytime soon, make sure you visit their stall where you can sample gins or pick up some KI honey. Grab a coffee and sip as you watch people go about their daily lives.

Searching for a more in-depth central market experience? Why not take a three hour tour? Get to know the locals, taste the produce and learn about the history of the market.

See Adelaide with the help of a tour

If you don’t have long to see the city, you might like to speed things up and take a tour. Fortunately, there are a number of options available for those hoping to visit all the best spots.

For example enjoy an Adelaide City and Parks bike tour. Explore Adelaide’s hidden treasures on a captivating tour. Begin at Himeji Japanese Gardens, a serene oasis. Pedal through Rymill Park and Bonython Park, surrounded by lush greenery. Discover North Terrace, Rundle Street, and the riverbank precinct, where history meets modernity, then enjoy a delightful morning tea at a local café. Led by experienced guides, this small group tour is suitable for all riding abilities.

Experience the best of Adelaide on an Adelaide City Morning Sightseeing Tour. Explore iconic city sights with expert commentary from a local guide. Enjoy a morning pick-up from selected hotels, immersing yourself in the classical culture of Adelaide. Throughout the day, witness the beauty of tree-lined streets and vibrant cultural precincts.

Discover the beauty of Adelaide from a unique perspective on the only guided kayak tour along the River Torrens. Marvel at the stunning views of the city skyline as you paddle through calm waters. With highly experienced guides, you can feel confident and safe throughout your adventure. Take advantage of the sunset tours for a truly magical experience.

Admire the Adelaide Botanic Gardens

Adelaide Botanic Gardens was designed and influenced by the Royal Gardens at Kew in London. Glass structures dating back to the 19th century are dotted throughout the gardens.

In these conservatories, live an Australian rain forest, a giant Amazonian waterlily thriving since 1868 and a collection of Madagascan palms. Gorgeous flora and lofty trees, beautifully orange in autumn, set across the 51-hectare landscape will keep you captivated for a whole morning.

Make sure you find the vibrant rose garden, established with the purpose of researching suitability for their growth in Australia.

Wander through the gorgeous Himeji Garden

Inside Adelaide’s southern Park Lands, a little Japanese garden manicured to perfection is hidden. Commemorating sister city – Himeji, in Japan – the beautiful gardens were designed by landscape designer Yoshitaka Kumada and were built by many talented volunteers.

Inside, find Japanese sculptures, a pond with turtles, lots of bird life and beautiful plants. Spend some time walking around the small garden and take a seat in order to soak up the atmosphere.

You’ll be surprised just how relaxing it is in here!

Take the trip up Waterfall Gully and Mount Lofty

Browse Rundle mall

Rundle Mall, is the main shopping street in Adelaide and the spot where you’ll find your favourite retail stores as well as boutique shops. Whether you enjoy shopping or not, a visit here is one of the best things to do in Adelaide.

Wander down the street and admire the buildings above shops to grasp the sense of history which pervades. Of note is Haigh’s Chocolates, Australia’s oldest family-owned chocolate maker known Australia-wide for their delicious chocolates.

Extending east from the main shopping street, Rundle Street continues with an emphasis on smaller independent establishments. Here, along this street you’ll find a great deal more restaurants, pubs and numerous vintage and boutique shops.

Visit the State Library of South Australia

The State Library of South Australia, or SLSA, is located on North Terrace. It is the official library of the Australian state of South Australia, and not only is it a wonderful building to look at, but there are a few things you do can here in order to immerse yourself in local heritage.

See items from the library’s collections in exhibition bays lining the heritage-listed Mortlock Chamber and the stunning Treasures Wall. Browse travel guides, read international newspapers and magazines and just take a quick wander.

Visit the Migration Museum

Discover the rich tapestry of Adelaide’s multicultural heritage at the Migration Museum. Located in the heart of the city, this captivating museum chronicles the stories of those who have made South Australia their home.

From the early settlers to the waves of migrants, delve into the diverse experiences and contributions that have shaped the state’s identity.

Engage with thought-provoking exhibitions, interactive displays, and engaging programs that celebrate the cultural diversity and resilience of the people who have contributed to Adelaide’s vibrant community.

Visit the National Wine Centre

If you’re interested in wine, but not looking to make the trip out of the city during your stay, drop into the National Wine Centre.

Located just next to Adelaide Botanic Garden, the wine centre offers a range of tours and experiences. The establishment is actually partially a wine research centre as part of the University of Adelaide. However, visitors are able to tour the building and visit the wine tasting room (which offers a whopping 120 wines). Also noteworthy is the National Wine Centre’s architecture itself.

Take a tour for a more educational and thorough experience!

Discover Adelaide’s arts and cultural scene 

During a self-guided tour or wander of the city, you might like to head inside some of the museums and art galleries on offer.

The Art Gallery of South Australia – founded in 1881 – contains a massive 42,000 pieces in its collection. Paintings, photography, sculptures, aboriginal art pieces, and ceramics describe just some of the displays at the gallery.

Also in the same precinct as The Art Gallery of South Australia is the South Australia Museum. Notable displays include the world’s largest Aboriginal Australian collection. Additionally, you’ll find a Megafauna gallery revealing extinct animals of Australia and finally an impressive fossil collection.

The Jam Factory is also a great place to soak up some arts and culture. Housing art from talented locals, the arts and crafts centre has a variety of studios displaying pottery, glassmaking, metal design and much more. 

For more ideas regarding things to do indoors in Adelaide (or when it’s raining), check out our article on the very topic!

Visit the Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute

Learn about the original owners of the land at Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute. Featuring Aboriginal art, a museum, cultural exhibitions and numerous performances and events all throughout the year, it’s the best place in Adelaide to learn a little about Aboriginal Australia.

Add this stop to your itinerary without hesitation. It’s only a ten minute walk from Rundle Mall. 

Head to an Escape Room or enjoy a Virtual Reality Experience

Rainy days happen, even in a sunny city like Adelaide. And when it does, you’ll want a plan B. Embark on an exhilarating virtual reality adventure in Adelaide. Enjoy a free roam experience in a spacious Arena, allowing you to move freely and immerse yourself in the virtual world. Gather up to 8 friends and play together in thrilling multiplayer games.

If virtual reality isn’t your thing, put your brain to work at an Adelaide escape room. Unleash your inner detective with an adrenaline-filled escape hunt; crack puzzles, solve mysteries, and beat the clock. Step into a new world, where you’ll face thrilling codes and challenges.

Go to the Adelaide Hills

One of the best things to do in Adelaide, is actually to drive away from the city towards the hills.

The South Australian capital is framed by gorgeous undulating hills to its west, within which numerous little towns are found. The Adelaide Hills region is a tourist’s dream. German heritage, wine districts, botanic gardens, great shops, restaurants, country pubs and bars are all found in this beautiful part of South Australia.

Adelaide Hills actually spreads across around 100 kilometres, so you’ll easily be able to spend one whole day exploring, and perhaps even two or three (especially if you enjoy hiking).

Whilst you’re in the Adelaide Hills, why not stop by Gorge Wildlife Park and see some of SA’s animals up close?

Take the kids to Cleland Wildlife Park

Also at the edge of Adelaide Hills, is Cleland Wildlife Park. The kids will love this part of your trip. Spend a few hours walking around the park, feeding the native Australian animals and listening to talks by keepers.

Cleland Wildfire Park plays a really important role in helping visitors to connect with the nature round them and teaching guests about the importance of conservation. Snakes, reptiles, kangaroos and koalas are amongst the many species you can find here. 

Go kayaking at the Dolphin Sanctuary

Kayaking at the Dolphin Sanctuary in Adelaide is another breathtaking experience not to look past. As you paddle through the calm waters, the stunning natural beauty surrounds you.

The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of marine life, but the highlight is undoubtedly the playful dolphins. Spotting them gracefully swimming alongside your kayak is a magical encounter. The tranquility of the sanctuary and the close connection with nature make this adventure unforgettable.

Choose from endless SA hiking spots

From your accommodation in Adelaide, you won’t be far from multiple conservation parks and national parks for hiking. Cleland Conservation Park situated within Adelaide Hills has an extensive network of walking and cycling trails.

The park also offers striking views of the city from up high. Meanwhile, Morialta with its rugged ridges, gullies and waterfalls is another natural gem in the Adelaide landscape. Countless, well-signposted trails of different lengths can be followed here.

Click here for more walks and hiking ideas in and around Adelaide.

Situate yourself up high for sunset views of Adelaide

Adelaide is known for its gorgeous city views. At sunset, the best place to be is up within the hills to capture a glimpse of the entire city alight with orange, framed by the calm sea in the distance.

The panoramic view from Mt Lofty, the highest point in the Adelaide Hills, is sensational and involves an hour walk each way (you can also drive here!).

Skye lookout offers a slightly lower down but equally beautiful alternative. Alternatively, you can also head just about anywhere towards the hills and find multiple viewpoints from which to sit and soak up the views. Bring a picnic and soak up the views. 

Head to Holey Moley for golf with a difference

Visit the 80s and 90s whilst playing a round of mini-golf if the weather is letting you down this winter. Head over in the day or opt for a session in the evening paired with a drink and snack.

Choose from cocktails, wine, beer or anything you fancy, and get stuck into a competitive round of golf with your friends. Music is blasting at this trendy spot in the CBD and holes are inspired by your childhood favourites.

Go to the Gaol

Adelaide Gaol, a historic landmark in South Australia, holds a captivating past within its walls. Built-in 1841, it served as a prison for over 140 years.

Today, visitors can explore the eerie corridors and learn about the lives of notorious criminals and tragic souls who once called it home. The gaol offers a chilling glimpse into the harsh realities of the past, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a spine-tingling experience.

Discover Adelaide’s Chinatown

Not far from the Central Market, Chinatown also makes up a significant proportion of the CBD. Despite its name, this zone of the city centre offers an excellent selection of Japanese, korean, Vietnamese, Malaysian and Thai cuisine and shops.

Impressive red gates at its entrance and red lanterns dotted throughout give Chinatown a vibrant feel. Chinatown boasts some of the most diverse dining options in the city. A wonderful blend of five star restaurants, food courts, wine bars and pubs are around every corner.

Take a peek at the iconic Adelaide Oval

Adelaide Oval has been widely regarded as one of the most beautiful sporting grounds in the world, even since its inception in 1871. People visiting Adelaide love to take a look at the venue, with thousands of visitors from around the world visiting each year. Located on the Adelaide Riverbank, the Oval hosts not only cricket but football, concerts and lots of functions and major events.

Visitors can head to the Oval for stadium tours, world-class dining, city views and of course, RoofClimb adventures! Enjoy picturesque views of the city and beyond whilst walking across the roof of the oval. With a wide range of climb possibilities, RoofClimb is a must-do for locals and visitors alike!

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Cafes in Adelaide 

Adelaide’s coffee scene is full of character and a heap of passion. Whether you want a quiet morning coffee, a pastry or a light lunch the city has plenty of standouts worth knowing about.

La Moka

A cosy, friendly stop in the city with consistently great coffee and an easy daytime atmosphere. It shifts into an intimate evening spot later on, serving drinks and cheese boards for a relaxed night out.

Hey Jupiter

A French café on Ebenezer Place with a genuine European feel and an Australian edge. Expect strong coffee, classic French dishes and a steady stream of locals who treat it like their second home.

Exchange Coffee

Tucked behind Rundle Street at 12/18 Vardon Avenue, this specialty coffee spot delivers high-end beans, a refined menu and a bright, people-watching setting in Adelaide’s East End. Ideal for serious coffee lovers or a relaxed catch-up with style.

Peter Rabbit Café

Located at 234–244 Hindley Street, this garden-style café brings big brunch energy with a leafy courtyard and indoor seating by the fire. You’ll find generous plates, artisan coffee and a vibe that blends casual comfort with something memorable.

Restaurants in Adelaide

Adelaide’s restaurant scene is diverse, full of personality and never short on flavour. From bold, high-energy dining rooms to relaxed spots serving beautifully simple plates, the city delivers far more than its size suggests.

Osteria Oggi

A modern Italian restaurant with a warm, polished feel and a menu built around handmade pasta, seafood and seasonal ingredients. The long arched dining room creates a lively atmosphere, making it ideal for long lunches and dinners that stretch into the evening.

Sunnys Pizza

Laid-back, loud in all the right ways and known for some of Adelaide’s best wood-fired pizzas. Great drinks, fun staff and a party-leaning vibe make it the place you head to when you want dinner to feel easy and unpretentious.

Africola

Bold, colourful and loud in the best way, Africola serves South African-inspired BBQ dishes with a fun, high-energy vibe. Great for groups, celebrations or anyone who wants dinner to feel like an event.

Golden Boy

A bright Thai restaurant with big flavours, comfy booths and communal tables. The menu leans into punchy, modern Thai dishes and works well for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Peel Street Restaurant

Peel Street serves modern Australian dishes with bold flavours in a stylish but comfortable setting. It’s well reviewed for its lively atmosphere and accessible price range, making it perfect for a relaxed dinner out in Adelaide’s city centre.

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Bars in Adelaide

Adelaide has a bar scene that offers a wide range of options for people looking for a night out. Whether you prefer cosy and intimate cocktail bars, lively pubs, or rooftop bars with stunning views of the city, Adelaide has something for everyone.

Maybe Mae

You can start with Maybe Mae, a sophisticated, art-deco cocktail bar that serves classic and contemporary drinks in a stylish and elegant setting. Their menu features classic pub dishes using fresh produce and seasonal ingredients.

Howling Owl

If you are in an adventurous mood, enjoy a gin-tasting session at Howling Owl. Taste at least a few of their 220 gin varieties from around the globe, all of which will be served with a seasonal garnish and a premium mixer.

La Buvette

Meanwhile, if you are looking to experience Paris in South Australia, you can go to La Buvette. This French-style wine bar offers a wide range of wines, along with small plates of cheese, charcuterie, prawns and other food items.

Sol Rooftop

Located on the rooftop of SkyCity Adelaide, Sol is a great place to grab a sunset drink with views across the city. A top notch list of cocktails and local wines and beers makes this place stand out amongst the crowd. Plus, the vista over the river and Adelaide Oval is one not to forget!

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AUS Weekend Escape’s top hotel picks

Wondering where to stay in Adelaide?

Whether you live just outside of the South Australian capital or five hours away, a city escape might be just what you’re after. Take a look at our recommendations and get your choice just right.

Quality Apartments Adelaide Central

Found in the very heart of Adelaide CBD, walking distance from everything you’d want to explore in the city, Quality Apartments Adelaide Central is an unbeatable Adelaide accommodation option.

Found within a charming, historic building, the apartments here offer a dose of luxury living. One or two-bedroom apartments are complemented by open-plan living spaces and luxury amenities.

Book a room at Quality Apartments Adelaide Central.

Adelaide Royal Coach

The Adelaide Royal Coach, located just outside of the CBD is perfect for those who prefer to rest their heads in a slower part of town.

Situated park-side, yet with only a short 10 minute walk to the bustling east end of Adelaide, the Royal Coach is convenient and highly comfortable.

An indoor pool and onsite Angus & Co restaurant make your stay that little bit more enjoyable.

Book a room at Adelaide Royal Coach.

Mantra Adelaide Meridien

Finally, taking one small step further away from the CBD, Mantra Adelaide Meridien is the answer for those who like the affordable option in a quirkier part of town.

Snug North Adelaide is a leafy grid of gorgeous streets, many lined with cosy cafes and boutique shops. Adelaide Meridien, found in the heart of North Adelaide, is a comfortable hotel with a beautiful location.

Spacious rooms and an onsite Angus & Co restaurant mean that you’re truly set up for the weekend here.

Book a room at Mantra Adelaide Meridien

KT Apartments

KT Apartments is a newly opened luxury apartment accommodation located in the heart of Kent Town Adelaide.

This East Adelaide location boasts a vast array of shops, galleries, bars, cafes and restaurants.

Stylishly appointed self contained apartments, each with two bedrooms and one or two bathrooms, also feature spacious living and dining and a large balcony overlooking Adelaide. This is your sleek home from home in the city.

Book a room at KT Apartments.

EconoLodge East Adelaide

Situated only 5 minutes on foot from the CBD, EconoLodge East Adelaide is an affordable and comfortable hotel in a prime location. Next door, the Adelaide Royal Coach offers access to Angus & Co Bar and Grill.

Parking is available on site, and views look across to the parklands. EconoLodge East Adelaide is the perfect base from which to explore Adelaide!

Book a room at EconoLodge East Adelaide.

Grow at Goodwood

Grow at Goodwood apartments offer the perfect solution for your short term holiday accommodation needs. Located in the heart of Goodwood, South Australia, Grow at Goodwood are brand new apartments just a few minutes drive away from Adelaide’s Central Business District and minutes from the Adelaide Royal Showgrounds.

Grow at Goodwood apartments provide all the comforts of home, with stylish and contemporary furnishings and modern amenities. Perfect for both short and longer stays, Grow at Goodwood is the ideal choice for travellers looking for a convenient and comfortable place to stay while they explore Adelaide.

Book a room at Grow at Goodwood.

Mantra Tonsley Adelaide

Immerse yourself in comfort at Mantra Tonsley Adelaide, perfectly positioned in the dynamic Tonsley Innovation Precinct.

As the closest hotel to Flinders Medical Centre and Flinders University, our location ensures unparalleled convenience for visitors to these institutions.

Just 25 minutes from the airport and city center, we offer spacious accommodations, modern amenities, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Choose Mantra Tonsley Adelaide for a stay that combines seamless accessibility with the very best of Adelaide hospitality.

Book a room at Mantra Tonsley Adelaide.

Adabco Boutique Hotel

Located in the vibrant heart of Adelaide, the Adabco Boutique Hotel offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern sophistication. This beautifully restored heritage-listed property provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a standout choice for those seeking an extraordinary stay in the city.

Each room is thoughtfully designed with high ceilings, luxurious bedding, and contemporary amenities to ensure comfort and relaxation. Guests can enjoy the cozy communal lounges, make use of the shared kitchen facilities, or step out to explore Adelaide’s nearby attractions, renowned dining spots, and boutique shopping.

Adabco Boutique Hotel promises a memorable experience for business and leisure travelers alike.

Book a room at Adabco Botique Hotel.