Discover Adelaide's Wonders

Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is a vibrant city known for its thriving arts scene, world-class wineries, and beautiful parklands. With its blend of historic charm and modern attractions, visitors can explore cultural festivals, enjoy exquisite dining, and relax on pristine beaches. Adelaide's welcoming atmosphere and diverse experiences make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

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Description

When Colonel William Light picked the Adelaide Plains as the capital of the new British colony back in 1836, the region had already been home to the Kaurna Aboriginal people for thousands of years. Previously known as Tarndanyangga, or place of the red kangaroo, the new settlement that arose on the plains developed into one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Named after the wife of King George IV of the United Kingdom, Adelaide soon spread out to the seashore, now dotted with a long line of relaxing beach suburbs. The arrival of successive waves of immigrants — from Germans and Italians to Lebanese and Japanese — has given the city an enviable reputation for good food and drinks with some of the most diverse eating opportunities in the whole world. The wine-making brought by German immigrants, for example, has turned Adelaide into one of the world's great wine-producing centres. The city's 19th-century centre, which lies closer to the Torrens River, is still intact, it gives visitors a feel for the colony's early days. It is also a grid of wide graceful streets encircled by a ring of parks, which rewards Adelaide with an open and green atmosphere. Combined that with the blue skies and warmth of the South Australian climate, and you've got yourself one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Useful information

Population:

1.539 million (2024)

Currency:

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Emergency Info:

000

Opening Hours:

General shop hours are from Mon–Fri 9am–5:30pm and Sat 9am–5pm. Most major outlets are also open on Sundays from 11am–5pm.

Do & See

Adelaide Botanic Garden

Explore the beauty and diversity of plants from across Australia and around the world at the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Spanning 50 hectares, this public garden is a great place to relax surrounded by nature right in the heart of the city. The Bicentennial Conservatory that towers over the gardens houses a tropical rainforest environment, and it is the largest glasshouse in Australia.

Adelaide Festival Centre

The Festival Centre was built in 1973, as the venue for the Adelaide Festival of Arts, which is the city’s major arts event since its inception in 1960. The large modernist theatre complex is still the heart of the festival, and its theatres are open all year, hosting different events and activities. Check out their schedule and stay tuned.

Adelaide Oval

One of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world, the Adelaide Oval, is home to the West End Redbacks, South Australia’s cricket team. It also hosts Aussie Rules football, rugby matches, and concerts.

Adelaide Zoo

With over 1,800 animals and 300 species, you will find yourself quite busy at the Adelaide Zoo, learning more about animals like African lions, giant pandas, sea lions, kangaroos, and American alligators, to name a few. It is also interesting to know that the zoo focuses on endangered and rare animals.

Art Gallery of South Australia

In the heart of the austere and monumental Victorian grandeur of Adelaide's official buildings, you will find the Art Gallery of South Australia. It houses nearly 45,000 works of art spanning 2000 years. From paintings, prints and drawings, photographs and videos to sculpture, textiles, ceramics, jewellery and furniture. It's a vast collection, which covers Aboriginal art, colonial and modern Australian, European art, and much more.

Cleland Wildlife Park

Cleland Wildlife Park has been a popular tourist attraction since 1967, and it is a Conservation Park where you can interact with Australian wildlife. Here, you can cuddle with a koala bear or hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies while also seeing the famous waterfall Gully-Mount.

Coopers Brewery Tour

Well established (not only) in the Australian beer market, Coopers is a family business with several different beers, stouts, or lagers in its assortment. Six generations back, Thomas Cooper brewed his first batch of ale in 1862 and until today, the very same methods are still used in the production. During the tour here, you will learn more about its 150 years of history, and you will get the chance to taste different Cooper brews.

Dolphin Swim & Watch

Temptation Sailing is a boat tour agency located in Glenelg that takes you to the sea with a sailing catamaran, where you will get the chance to swim with wild dolphins or simply watch these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. As this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, be sure to bring your camera along!

Dining

Chianti

Family-run trattoria in a beautiful heritage-listed building, which has been restored with the same quality and attention to detail as before. Such characteristics are also found in the food, wine, and service of Chianti. The menu represents the best of Tuscan and Northern Italian dishes, which can be enjoyed either in the comfort of inside dining or al fresco.

Jasmin Indian Restaurant

Jasmin Indian Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant with a cosy and intimate atmosphere, serving classic North Indian dishes as kormas or vindaloos.

Jolleys Boathouse

This restaurant situated in a converted boathouse offers fine contemporary Australian cuisine on the banks of the Torrens River. The menu changes seasonally and thus assures that only the best (and regional) products are used.

Oyster Bar Holdfast Shores

Oyster Bar Holdfast Shores attracts oyster lovers from all over the world, as this restaurant serves some of South Australia's finest oysters, which can be complemented with a perfect glass of South Australian wine. The restaurant is located in Glenelg and, thus, also offers amazing waterfront views.

Penfolds Magill Estate Restaurant

Situated on the Magill Estate with panoramic views over the vineyards and the city beyond, this 5-star restaurant offers modern Australian cuisine and one of the most impressive restaurant cellars in the world. The estate itself, which in total houses four different dining and drinking locations, overlooks more than five hectares of Shiraz vines, which are among the most celebrated in the whole world, and they also contributed to the first vintages of Grange in the 1950s.

Press Food & Wine

Enjoy modern Australian cuisine at this high-standard restaurant. The menu, created by head chef Andrew Davies, is constantly aligned with the changing seasons, providing only the best and freshest ingredients. For the highest pleasure, choose a local wine from their extensive wine list.

Sosta Argentinian Kitchen

Sosta is a temple for the faithful to eat spectacular steaks, chorizo, quail, rump, chicken, and veal ribs. Try the 'Parrillada de Carne' for two, a platter with grilled meat, and you won’t be disappointed. While carnivores will feel right at home at Sosta’s, vegetarians, however, may want to steer clear.

Star of Siam

In the heart of the city near the Central Market, this Thai restaurant is one of the best dining locations in town, serving great fresh produce at reasonable prices. On the menu, you will find tasty dishes like pad-thai, Thailand's national dish, and other specialities like spicy crispy prawn and pepper & garlic chilli pork.

Cafés

Bakery on O'Connell

Family-owned and award-winning bakery and cafe offering more than 200 items, all prepared on their premises. Their vast menu includes cakes, pastries, doughnuts, croissants, milkshakes, smoothies, and much more. Plus, it's open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Peter Rabbit Cafe

Peter Rabbit Cafe is a beloved Adelaide institution featuring a lovely garden oasis for fresh brunch classics and lunch, plus cocktails and coffee. The true highlight lies in its secret garden, a serene haven tucked away behind the main dining area, where lush greenery and quaint furniture create a fairy-tale-like setting, inviting visitors to indulge in a leisurely brunch amidst nature's embrace.

The Pantry on Egmont

Tucked away in the backstreets of Hawthorn is this small local café serving all-day breakfast and lunch, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options in a cosy and friendly atmosphere. On the menu, besides delicious takes on classics, you will also find some seasonal items. And on the wall, current displays of art from talented local artists.

UR Caffé

Small and popular café, with outdoor seating, dishing up breakfast and brunch fare made from local produce with Asian-inspired recipes.

Bars & Nightlife

Ancient World

Small underground bar and venue tucked away in the heart of Adelaide. The Ancient World is a hidden gem in the city, and definitely one of those places you do not want to miss out on. Try their whiskey from Tasmania and the Mexican cola Jarritos, and put your signature on the bathroom door--it is, actually, encouraged!

APOTECA

APOTECA is a stylish place offering high-quality wine, beer, and spirits. This is one of the best wine bars in Adelaide, and the food follows the very same quality standard. So, make sure to check that out.

Mary's Poppin

The two opulent levels of Mary's are finished with sleek edges and furnished with luxurious European décor, while a grand internal balcony gives an intimate view of three dazzling crystal chandeliers. These magnificent centrepieces cascade from ornate cathedral ceilings to the main dance floor below, creating a truly unique atmosphere that is held up by great drinks. Mary's is known primarily for its electrifying drag shows, but come before the party starts to enjoy the lounge vibe.

The Austral

This fine pub in the heart of Rundle Street is something of an Adelaide institution. The Austral offers an excellent menu of modern Australian food, local and international ales, as well as live entertainment.

The Union

Every weekend, DJs are spinning funk, house, pop, and rock at The Union, while you enjoy a cold beer or a tasty cocktail by the 30-metre long bar. There are about 12 beers on tap to choose from, including both imported and hand-crafted Australian beers. The menu ranges from traditional pub food to modern Australian creations.

The Unley

Open-air rooftop bar offering an extensive drinks menu, which includes local craft beers on tap, South Australian wines, boutique gins, and creative cocktails, as well as some classic pub fare and restaurant-style meals. The Unley boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, which is complemented by its cosy fireplaces.

Treasury 1860

As being the place to see and to be seen on a Friday night, Treasury 1860 is trendy and upmarket. In a terrifically restored South Australian Treasury building, this bar caters to a finance and government clientele, but it also serves breakfast and lunch, being open nearly all day long.

Shopping

Adelaide Arcade

Running off Rundle Mall, down to Grenfell Street, the heritage-listed Adelaide Arcade and the Regent Arcade offer boutique shopping, aboriginal crafts, and even locally-mined opals.

Adelaide Central Market

The Adelaide Central Market teems with life and colour all year round, and it is a special place for regulars who wouldn’t shop anywhere else. Here you will find a wide range of fresh food, all under one roof: fruit and vegetables, meat and poultry, seafood, baked goods, sweets, nuts, as well as gourmet cheeses. Shoppers can also take a break in some of the hippest cafes in the city.

East Rundle Street

The East End of Rundle Street is another shopper's paradise offering Adelaide's finest fashion and dining experience. The area boasts hundreds of stalls and specialty shops. Here you will find anything from leading designer labels to homewares, jewellery, and plenty of eateries, bars, and cafes.

Rundle Mall

When in need of some retail therapy, head over to Rundle Mall. Built in the mid-1970s, this is Adelaide’s first pedestrianised street mall. It features over 1000 retail stores and services, including famous high-end chains and other global brands, along with many interesting local shops.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

The most lively seasons in which locals are out to enjoy the warm weather in Adelaide are between February and May, as the average temperatures of around 24 degrees allow for every outdoor (and must-do) activity and also attending interesting events such as the Adelaide Fringe Festival. While February is the hottest month of the year, the following ones cool down the weather to a level of comfort that ends with winter coming around from June until August.

Passport / Visa

Unless you are a New Zealand citizen granted visa exemption on arrival (in most cases), you will need to obtain a visa prior to visiting Australia. Citizens of all European Union countries, as well as Andorra, Norway, Iceland, San Marino, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, and Vatican City are eligible for an eVisitor visa, which can be applied for online. For citizens of the United States, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Brunei, South Korea and Malaysia, the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) entry permit is available, which can be applied for online and grants holders the right to enter Australia an unlimited amount of times for stays of no longer than 3 months per visit. Citizens of other countries (with the exception of Somalia) are also able to apply for a visitor visa online. For more information, visit the official website of the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs.

Adelaide Airport (ADL)

Adelaide International Airport is just 6km from the city centre. The easiest public transport option is the J1 and J2 buses, which run every 15-30 minutes until 11:30pm, taking around 25-30 minutes to reach Adelaide's city centre. The bus stop is located outside the terminal to the left, past the taxi rank. Ride-sharing services like Uber, Ola, and Didi have designated pick-up facilities at the airport.

Public Transport

The Adelaide Parklands Rail Terminal links rail destinations across Australia with airport buses and suburban trains to Adelaide Train Station on North Terrace. The Adelaide Metro runs extensive bus services across the city with various tickets, including multi-trip passes. These bus services link with the TransAdelaide train and tram services. Tram to Glenelg is a great way to access the lovely seaside suburbs.

Taxi

It is easiest to hail a taxi on the street, especially in the city centre or at the airport and train stations. However, some companies, such as Adelaide Independent Taxis and Suburban Taxis, among others, may be well reached via phone or app. Another option for lower fares is the rideshare companies Uber, Ola, and Didi.

Electricity

Australia operates on a 230/240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The country uses Type I power plugs, which feature two flat pins forming a 'V' shape, along with a grounding pin. This standard is also commonly used in New Zealand, Argentina, China, and several Pacific island nations. Remember to pack a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type to ensure hassle-free charging.

Pharmacy

In Adelaide, some of the main pharmacy chains include Chemist Warehouse, Priceline Pharmacy, TerryWhite Chemmart, and Amcal.

Post

There are several Australia Post offices located all over the town, where stamps can be bought, and where mail and packages can be sent from.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top things to do in Adelaide?

Adelaide offers a rich mix of sightseeing, guided tours, and local activities. On Keytours you can browse the most popular tours and experiences in Adelaide and book them instantly.

What is the best time to visit Adelaide?

The ideal time to visit Adelaide depends on the experience you're after. Check the current weather and seasonal information on this page to plan your trip around the best conditions.

How do I get around Adelaide?

You can arrange private airport transfers and local transport for Adelaide directly through Keytours, ensuring a comfortable arrival and easy travel throughout your stay.

Where should I stay in Adelaide?

Adelaide has accommodation for every style, from boutique city stays to seaside resorts. Explore our handpicked hotels in Adelaide to find the right base for your trip.

Can I book tours, hotels, and transfers together for Adelaide?

Yes. With Keytours you can combine tours, activities, hotels, and transfers for Adelaide in a single booking, making it easy to plan your entire trip in one place.

How do I book a trip to Adelaide with Keytours?

Simply choose your preferred tours, hotels, or activities in Adelaide on this page, select your dates, and complete your secure booking online. Our team is available to help at any step.

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