After arrival and checking in, ease into Sydney with a stroll through Hyde Park, admiring the fountains and the ANZAC Memorial, then grab a relaxed coffee and brunch at The Grounds of the City to shake off jetlag. Follow this with a gentle ferry ride from Circular Quay to the nearby Barangaroo Reserve for waterfront views and a light walk among native plantings, setting a calm, scenic tone before afternoon exploration.
Head to Darling Harbour for a lively riverside afternoon-explore the waterfront promenades, pop into the interactive exhibits at the Australian National Maritime Museum, and relax with a light lunch or drink on the outdoor terrace of The Ternary while watching ferries glide by. Afterward, wander through the adjacent Chinese Garden of Friendship for tranquil ponds and shaded paths, a peaceful contrast that eases you into Sydney's rhythm before evening plans.
As dusk falls, wander through the lively lanes of The Rocks, browsing its heritage sandstone alleys, weekend market stalls (if open) and cozy galleries before settling in for dinner at Quay or a more casual seafood feast at Doyles on the Wharf with harbour views. After dinner, take a gentle post-meal stroll along the waterfront to Mrs Macquarie's Chair for a classic sunset vantage point and to watch the city lights sparkle across the harbour.
Begin your morning with a guided tour inside the Sydney Opera House, exploring its hidden foyers and learning about the design while sipping coffee at the on-site Opera Bar terrace for waterfront views. After the tour, wander through the shaded paths of the Royal Botanic Garden, visit the fragrant Calyx horticultural displays and pause at the Mrs Macquarie's Chair vantage to watch ferries and enjoy panoramic harbour scenery before a relaxed brunch at the garden-adjacent Botanic House café.
Cross the harbour to explore the lively precinct of The Rocks Markets and pause for a tasting paddle at Pittwater Wines or a craft beer flight at The Glenmore Hotel rooftop for sweeping views of the Opera House from a new angle. Continue with a scenic harbour cruise from King Street Wharf, choosing a short sightseeing loop that slips under the Harbour Bridge and offers photo stops at Fort Denison, then disembark for people-watching and gelato along the cobbled lanes of Campbell's Cove before an early evening refreshment.
As twilight deepens, take a short walk to Barangaroo House for a sundowner cocktail on the rooftop and seasonal small plates while watching the harbour glow; afterwards, wander the waterfront promenade to Walsh Bay Arts Precinct to catch an intimate theatre performance or live music at one of the converted wharf venues. Finish the night with a relaxed dessert and coffee at The Gantry Restaurant & Bar tucked under the wharves, soaking in views of the lit harbour and anticipating tomorrow's harbour bridge adventures.
Rise early for the full morning experience atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge with a guided BridgeClimb (choose the Summit climb for sunrise views), then descend to explore the nearby historic lanes of The Rocks Discovery Museum to learn local history and browse independent craft shops. Afterward, walk to Garrison Church and grab brunch at the charming The Fine Food Store on Playfair Street, enjoying hearty Australian café fare before your afternoon stroll along the waterfront.
After your morning climb and local history, wander east along the waterfront to the lively Barangaroo House Dining Room & Bar for a long, leisurely lunch of modern Australian small plates and harbour views, then stroll through the nearby native plantings of Wulugul Walk for fresh sea breezes and photo stops. Continue to Campbells Wharf to browse artisan boutiques and stop by the interactive Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) Sculpture Terrace for rotating outdoor installations before settling at Opera Bar's extended terrace for an afternoon drink while watching ferries and harbour life glide by.
After descending from your BridgeClimb and exploring The Rocks' history, head to Barangaroo House's waterfront terraces for a pre-dinner cocktail, then stroll over to Pirrama Park to watch the city lights shimmer on the water and enjoy a relaxed picnic-style pause on the grassy foreshore. For dinner, cross into nearby Dawes Point and book a table at Aria or the intimate Monopole for contemporary cuisine, then finish the night with live jazz at the cosy Gordon's Wine Bar tucked beneath historic bluestone for a low-key, atmospheric close to the day.
Start early with a sunrise dip at Bondi Icebergs Pool followed by a hearty coastal breakfast at North Bondi Fish overlooking the surf; fuel up for the walk with their wood-fired sourdough and strong coffee. Then set off west along the clifftops to explore the ocean-facing sculptures and wildflower pockets of Tamarama Reserve, pause at the panoramic lookout above Bronte Baths for photos, and enjoy a short café stop at Bronte's Pavilion Café before continuing toward the afternoon leg of the coastal walk.
Continue your coastal adventure with a stop at Marks Park lookout for sweeping views of the headland, then descend toward the lesser-known swimming cove of Gordons Bay for a snorkel amid rocky reefs and colourful fish. After drying off, linger over a relaxed seaside lunch and fresh juices at Sutherland Hotel (a local favourite), before taking the southern clifftop path past dramatic rock platforms to the historic Waverley Cemetery for a contemplative stroll and ocean-facing monuments as the light softens into late afternoon.
As the sun softens, head inland to the arty lanes of Bondi Beach Pavilion for an early evening aperitif and people-watching from the terrace, then wander through nearby street art alleys to the intimate live-music venue The Spanish Garden for a local gig. Finish with a relaxed dinner of modern Australian cuisine at Three Blue Ducks back by the sand, followed by a moonlit stroll to the quiet seaside viewpoint at Ben Buckler Point to listen to the surf and watch lights shimmer across the headland.
Catch an early train or join a small-group coach to Katoomba and begin with a misty sunrise walk along the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, pausing at Echo Point for a classic vantage of the sandstone spires and a short interpretive talk about the geology and Gundungurra/Wiradjuri connections. Continue to the nearby Three Sisters Lookout then descend on the steep Scenic World Giant Stairway before riding the thrilling Scenic Railway and taking the cableway across Jamison Valley for close-up views and a boardwalk stroll through ancient eucalypt forest.
After the morning Scenic World thrills, head further along the escarpment to wander the cliff-top trails around Govetts Leap Lookout, pausing to photograph the dramatic waterfall and valley panorama before descending to explore the fern-filled gullies of Pulpit Rock Reserve. Continue with a relaxed lunch at the rustic Hydro Majestic's Pavilion Café (or a cosy village pub in Leura), then browse the boutique galleries and specialist bookshops on Leura Mall before finishing with a short guided Aboriginal cultural walk near Wentworth Falls to learn Dreaming stories tied to the landscape.
As dusk falls, settle into the cosy timbered dining room at Megalong Tea Rooms for a comforting regional meal and locally brewed ale, then take a short drive to Sublime Point Lookout for a twilight panorama of the valley as the last light softens the cliffs. Finish with a guided nocturnal wildlife stroll around Katoomba Falls Reserve, listening for gliders and frogs while a local guide points out native night birds and the dramatic waterfall silhouette.
After an early flight and hotel drop-off, replenish with a coffee and a savory pastry at Exchange Specialty Coffee in the East End before a relaxed self-guided stroll through the nearby Rundle Park / Tainmuntilla green space to stretch out and sample local sculptures. Then head to the historic Adelaide Arcade for boutique browsing and a light lunch at Shōbōsho Deli before making your way to the Fringe precinct to collect tickets and pick up program guides ahead of the evening's opening events.
Settle into Adelaide's vibe with a leisurely wander through Victoria Square / Tarntanyangga, pausing at the central fountain and public art, then continue to the nearby North Terrace cultural boulevard to browse the forecourt exhibitions and grab a light lunch at the sunlit courtyard café of Migration Museum. Afterward, head into the Fringe precinct to soak up festival energy at Rundle Street pop-up stages and buskers, check out the live outdoor program at Elder Park and pick a couple of early-evening shows from the Fringe box office so you're ready for the opening-night buzz.
As the Fringe opening night energy builds, dive into the festival hub at Light Square / Wauwi to catch street performers and pop-up bars, then stroll to nearby Rundle Street Mall for lively alfresco dining at Africola or modern Australian plates at *Press Food & Wine before shows start. After dinner, hop between intimate venues in Gouger Street's Fringe pop-ups and book a late show at Her Majesty's Theatre or an edgy comedy set at FEAST Festival House** to cap your first Fringe night with local talent and bright city lights.
Begin your morning with a relaxed breakfast at Pizzateca in the East End, then join a guided street-art walk through the vibrant laneways of Hindley Street precinct to spot colourful murals and meet local muralists. After the tour, browse independent galleries at ACE Open for contemporary South Australian work and recharge with a specialty coffee and pastry at Exchange Specialty Coffee - Central Market before the afternoon's Fringe shows.
Wander down the lively East End and pop into The Jade for a leisurely lunch of modern Asian small plates before joining a Fringe satellite at Hillside Fringe Garden to catch short outdoor acts and circus tasters. Afterwards, explore the boutique-lined Rundle Street extension toward Rundle Park / Tainmuntilla where pop-up performance tents and roaming cabaret artists create a festival atmosphere-pause at The Stag Public House for a craft beer and people-watching as the afternoon builds into an evening of shows.
As twilight deepens, drift toward Light Square / Wauwi to soak in street theatre and pop-up bars, then wander through the festival-lit lanes to catch a late outdoor cabaret at Elder Park's Fringe Garden. For dinner and more intimate performances, book a table at Hains & Co. for seasonal plates before hopping to a ticketed show at The Garden of Unearthly Delights where roaming performers, themed bars and immersive acts keep the Fringe energy buzzing late into the night.
Start with a sensory wander through Adelaide Central Market, sampling local cheeses at David Jones the Elder Fine Foods, grabbing freshly baked sourdough from Big Table Bakery and a single-origin coffee at Proud Mary Market Stall while chatting to stallholders about seasonal produce; then join a short hands-on cooking demo at The Market Kitchen to learn a simple South Australian recipe to recreate later. Afterward, stroll across to the nearby Malt Shovel Lane for boutique shopping and a light mid-morning snack at Mercato, followed by a leisurely riverside walk through Elder Park to catch a daytime Fringe street performance and plan your afternoon ticketed shows.
After a lively morning at the market, drift toward the leafy East End and enjoy a relaxed lunch on the sunny terrace at Shobosho before taking a guided chocolate-tasting tour at Koerner's Chocolate House to sample local artisan confections. Later, wander the cultural spine of North Terrace to visit the courtyard café at the State Library of South Australia, then settle on a bench in Hurtle Square / Tainmuntilla to watch roaming Fringe performers and pick up last-minute tickets for tonight's shows.
As twilight falls, head to The Garden of Unearthly Delights for an immersive mix of quirky pop-up bars, roaming performers and late-night cabaret under festoon lights; grab a craft cocktail from The Werks Bar and wander between themed tents to catch surprise street acts. Later, take a short tram ride to Glenelg Road's Festival Pop-ups for seaside-style food vans and live music, finishing the night with a relaxed riverside drink at Wharf Hotel's upstairs terrace while reflecting on the day's market discoveries and tomorrow's shows.
Set off early from Adelaide and arrive in the Barossa for a slow morning tasting at Seppeltsfield Estate, where you can join the Centennial Cellar tour and sample fortified wines straight from the barrels, then stroll through the historic grounds and family-run museum. Afterward, head to Maggie Beer's Farm Shop for a light country breakfast of seasonal preserves, freshly baked bread and a cooking demo or tasting session in the courtyard, followed by a scenic drive through vineyard-lined roads to the lookout at Mengler Hill for panoramic valley views before lunchtime.
After a leisurely cellar visit and Mengler Hill lookout, drive into the charming village of Tanunda for a long, relaxed lunch at Fino at Seppeltsfield (seasonal menu showcasing regional produce) paired with a flight of local rieslings. Later, join a guided behind-the-scenes tour and tasting at Yalumba Family Winemakers to sample rare reserves and learn about sustainable viticulture, then wander the boutique shops on Murray Street before heading to a sunset tasting on the deck at Hentley Farm to finish the afternoon on a dramatic vineyard ridge.
As evening settles over the vines, slow down with a sunset aperitivo on the terrace at Jacob's Creek Visitor Centre, sampling seasonal small plates paired with their signature shiraz while the valley glows golden. Later, linger in the historic village of Tanunda Hotel for a relaxed pub-style dinner with regional produce and local live music, then finish the night with a short drive to Bethany Picnic Grounds for stargazing among the gum trees and a nightcap from a local bottle shop.
Begin with a relaxed riverside breakfast at Paddleboat Cafe on the Torrens, then take a guided behind-the-scenes tour of Adelaide Oval to explore the players' tunnel, heritage stands and rooftop views before the crowds arrive. After the tour, stroll the leafy paths of Riverbank Lawn toward Victoria Bridge and pop into the nearby festival pop-up market for artisanal coffee and a taste of Fringe street-food before afternoon shows.
Wander the arty East End laneways to discover pop-up performances at Rundle Lanterns and stop for a relaxed lunch and people-watching on the terrace at La Moka before an intimate matinee at The Odeon Theatre featuring local cabaret. After the show, stroll through the leafy paths of Hindmarsh Square to catch roaming street acts and then cross to River Torrens Linear Park for a scenic riverside cycle or shared e-scooter ride toward the Adelaide Festival Centre to scout evening Fringe venues and buy last-minute tickets.
As twilight deepens, settle into a pre-show supper at Shōbōsho's stylish izakaya-style dining room for share plates and Japanese-Australian fusion before making your way to the Oval precinct. Enjoy a rooftop cocktail at The Hill of Grace Bar overlooking the stadium lights, then catch a late Fringe comedy set or experimental theatre piece at Space Theatre inside the Adelaide Festival Centre, finishing the night with a riverside digestif at The Boatshed Café & Bar while watching the city reflect on the Torrens.
Catch the tram to Glenelg Jetty and start with a relaxed beachfront breakfast at The Moseley Beach Club, then rent a stand-up paddleboard from Glenelg SUP Hire to explore the calm bay and look back toward Adelaide's skyline. After paddling, stroll the foreshore to the historic Glenelg Pier Kiosk for fresh seafood snacks, then wander the boutique-lined Jetty Road to browse local galleries and pick up artisanal souvenirs before an early afternoon café pause.
After browsing Jetty Road, head to Bathers Pavilion for a leisurely seaside lunch and a local wine tasting on the terrace, then wander the sheltered sands toward Holdfast Shores to join a guided dolphin-spotting cruise that often departs in the calmer afternoon hours. Later, cycle or stroll along the foreshore to The Moseley Hotel's rooftop garden for craft beers and panoramic views before returning to town to freshen up for the evening Fringe buzz.
As dusk falls, wander the restored jetty precinct to catch live buskers and craft cocktails at The Moseley Beach Club Rooftop, then head to Glenelg Sunset Market (if running) for street-food stalls, artisan stalls and pop-up cabaret under festoon lights. Later, return to Adelaide for a late-night Fringe crawl starting with punchy indie comedy at The Little Theatre Centre, then soak up immersive performances and late sets in the eclectic tents of The Garden of Unearthly Delights until the early hours.
Catch an early ferry or light-plane transfer and head straight to Flinders Chase National Park for a dawn walk among wind-sculpted dunes and a guided spotting session for native kangaroos and short-beaked echidnas along the coastal trails; finish the loop with dramatic cliff views at Cape du Couedic. Afterwards, pause at the nearby Kelly Hill Caves for a short guided cave tour through limestone chambers before a fresh picnic brunch beneath eucalyptus at American River, where shorebird watching and calm-water kayaking offer a gentle wildlife-rich start to your island exploration.
Continue your island discovery with a scenic drive to Remarkable Rocks for striking granite formations and panoramic ocean vistas, then descend to Admirals Arch to watch New Zealand fur seals bask and play on the rocks below. After wildlife viewing, head inland to Seal Bay Conservation Park for a guided beach walking tour among sea-lions and finish with a relaxed late-afternoon tasting of local honey and cheeses at Clifford's Honey Farm or a nearby cellar-door, soaking in the coastal light before returning toward the ferry or airstrip.
As dusk deepens, savour a coastal-feast dinner at Stokes Bay Bistro with local King George whiting and Kangaroo Island spirits, then wander the nearby sheltered beach to watch the last light spill across the headland. After dinner, join a guided nocturnal-wildlife walk from Raptor Domain grounds to spot tawny frogmouths and sugar gliders, finishing with a slow nightcap under stars at Kangaroo Island Spirits' outdoor tasting deck while listening to the island's evening chorus.
Ease into the day with a specialty coffee and pastries at Bean Bar Adelaide before a curated visit to the intimate collections at the South Australian Museum where you can join a short Aboriginal cultural talk and view rare Pacific artefacts. Continue with a tranquil stroll through the nearby Botanic Park to the quirky outdoor sculptures at Rymill Park / Murlawirrapurka, then pause for a late-morning tasting of South Australian liqueurs at the historic Haigh's Chocolates flagship store and café to fuel an afternoon of galleries and Fringe cabaret scouting.
Wander the elegant galleries of Art Gallery of South Australia to see both contemporary Australian works and the special Indigenous art displays, then join a curator-led tour or drop into the gallery café for a light lunch on the sun-drenched terrace. Afterward, head to the creative hub of Mitcham Village to browse independent craft shops and visit the intimate performance studio at Avenue Theatre for an early-evening Fringe cabaret preview or emerging-artist showcase, keeping the festival momentum lively as night approaches.
As twilight settles, wander the laneways to discover intimate performances at The Jade rooftop or grab a themed cocktail at the theatrical Queen's Theatre Bar, then drift over to The Garden of Unearthly Delights for late-night immersive cabaret and roaming performance troupes under festoon lights. Finish the night with a post-show digestif and live jazz at Band Room Adelaide, where local musicians and Fringe artists often gather, keeping the city's creative pulse alive into the early hours.
Wake slowly with brunch at The Loose Caboose on Hutt Street, savouring seasonal brunch plates and a specialty flat white before browsing the designer boutiques and indie concept stores along Rundle Street Mall; pop into Linen House Collective for homewares and Mott 32 (concept store) for curated fashion finds. After shopping, pause for a mid-morning tasting flight and light lunch at House of Tasting in the East End to sample local wines and craft spirits, then enjoy a relaxed riverside walk through Elder Park gardens to plan your Fringe farewell shows this evening.
Browse the stylish independent boutiques along Gouger Street's laneways and pop into Percy & Co. for locally made jewellery and homewares, then pause for a late-afternoon tasting flight at Shiraz & Swine to sample South Australian drops with small regional plates. After shopping, unwind with a specialty tea service and pastries at The Tearooms at Ayers House before a relaxed riverside stroll through Wharf Precinct to watch paddleboats and scout evening Fringe venues nearby.
As twilight falls, wander the buzzy lanes around Hindley Street Basement Bars to sample craft cocktails at Maybe Mae before heading to the intimate cabaret room at The Wheatsheaf Hotel for a lively local set; the mood stays festival-bright with late acts and sip-and-watch vibes. Finish your Fringe farewell with a ticketed immersive variety show at The Lab Theatre and a nightcap on the rooftop terrace of 2KW Bar, where sweeping city lights and a relaxed playlist close the evening on a celebratory note.
Spend a relaxed final morning strolling the leafy paths of Karrawirra Parri / River Torrens Linear Park, stopping for a last coffee and almond croissant at Exchange Specialty Coffee - East End before returning to your hotel to pack. If time allows, visit Adelaide Botanic Garden Conservatory for a calming walk among tropical palms and glasshouse displays, then collect a final souvenir hamper of South Australian produce from Adelaide Central Market's specialty stalls en route to the airport.
For a calm final afternoon, wander the shady paths and historic rose beds of Veale Gardens before settling at the nearby riverside café River Torrens Café for a leisurely lunch and last sips of South Australian wine. Afterwards, take a short tram ride to Morialta Conservation Park for an easy 45-60 minute loop to see waterfalls and native bushland - a restorative nature pause before collecting luggage and heading to the airport.
Before you head to the airport, enjoy a final relaxed evening tasting menu at Jolleys Boathouse on the River Torrens for seasonal South Australian flavours and vineyard-paired wines while watching paddleboats drift by. If time allows, take a short twilight stroll through Hindmarsh Square to catch any last street performers, then finish with a farewell cocktail at 2KW Bar's rooftop terrace for one last panoramic view of the city skyline before your onward journey.