Things To Do
in Adelaide

Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse cultural festivals, and historic architecture. Nestled between the hills and the sea, this city offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. With its Mediterranean climate, beautiful parks, and proximity to renowned wine regions, Adelaide is a haven for food and wine lovers.

It's a city that values its history while embracing modernity, making it a delightful destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Adelaide Central Market, where you can enjoy fresh produce, local delicacies, and a vibrant atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll down Rundle Mall for shopping and street performances, then head to the Art Gallery of South Australia to admire its impressive collection of artworks.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the East End, followed by a relaxing walk along the River Torrens.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Adelaide Botanic Garden to explore its beautiful landscapes and historic glasshouses.

afternoon
:

Head to the South Australian Museum to learn about the region's natural history and Aboriginal culture, then visit nearby North Terrace for more cultural experiences.

evening
:

Finish your day with a sunset view from Mount Lofty, followed by dinner at a restaurant in the nearby Adelaide Hills.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel per night$120
🍷Bottle of local wine$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and culinary scene
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and parks
  • Friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere
  • Limited public transport options outside city center
  • Can be quite hot in summer
  • Some attractions may require a car to access

Places to Visit in Adelaide

Visit one of these nice places.

Adelaide Botanic Garden

A picturesque garden featuring stunning landscapes, flora, and historical buildings.

Glenelg Beach

Perfect for sunset photography, with beautiful beach views and vibrant atmosphere.

Mount Lofty

Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills, ideal for capturing breathtaking landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Adelaide

Adelaide boasts a rich culinary scene that reflects both its multicultural heritage and its proximity to some of Australia's best wine regions.

Adelaide Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fried Bug Sandwich

A local delicacy featuring Southern Australian bugs served in a fresh sandwich, often with aioli.

Must-Try!

Pork Belly

Tender and crispy pork belly, often served with seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Adelaide Central Market

This bustling market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, gourmet food stalls, and local delicacies.

Gouger Street

Known for its vibrant street food scene, especially during the night markets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Adelaide has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F), while winters are generally mild with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). Rainfall is more common in the winter months, with July being the wettest month. Spring and autumn are typically mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Australians value politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way.

Queuing

Queueing is an important norm; always wait your turn respectfully.

Respect for Nature

Be mindful of the environment, especially in parks and natural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Adelaide is considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates compared to other urban areas. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas and at night. Keep personal belongings secure and be cautious when using ATMs. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 000, and hospitals are well-equipped for any medical needs.

Tipping in Adelaide

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% for good service is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are popular throughout the city.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder weather with beautiful fall foliage, great for wine tours in the Adelaide Hills.

Winter (June - August)

Cool temperatures; some attractions may be less crowded, and it's a great time for indoor cultural experiences.

Spring (September - November)

Mild and pleasant weather; ideal for garden visits and outdoor festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Adelaide at Night

Adelaide's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The East End is particularly popular for its trendy bars and pubs, while Hindley Street offers a range of clubs and late-night venues. You can enjoy everything from intimate jazz clubs to larger venues showcasing local and international acts. Many establishments also host themed nights and events, enhancing the social scene.

Hiking in Adelaide

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Morialta Conservation Park

Features several hiking trails with stunning views of the waterfalls and native wildlife.

Horsnell Gully Conservation Park

Offers scenic walking trails through native bushland, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Adelaide by plane.

Adelaide Airport

Located about 6 km from the city center, Adelaide Airport is the primary international and domestic airport, offering flights to various destinations across Australia and the world.

Getting Around

Walkability

Adelaide is a walkable city, particularly in the central business district (CBD) where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance. The layout of the city is designed with wide streets and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it enjoyable to explore on foot. Many parks and open spaces also encourage walking and outdoor activities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Australians

The local Aboriginal communities have a rich cultural heritage and are an integral part of South Australia.

European Descendants

A significant portion of the population is of European descent, primarily from the United Kingdom and Italy, contributing to the city's diverse cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Australian Rules Football

A favorite in Adelaide, with passionate fans supporting the local teams, particularly during the AFL season.

Cricket

Cricket is also popular, with local matches held at the Adelaide Oval, a historic venue for both domestic and international games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Adelaide is generally manageable, with peak hour commuting being the busiest times. Public transportation options include buses, trams, and trains, providing convenient access to various parts of the city and surrounding suburbs. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes and shared paths available throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Adelaide.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer extensive vegetarian menus, with fresh produce from local markets.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are commonly available at cafes and restaurants to cater to dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Adelaide is of high quality, with numerous public and private hospitals available. Emergency services are accessible, and many pharmacies are located throughout the city. Visitors should ensure they have appropriate travel insurance that covers health services, as healthcare can be expensive without it.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide