Adelaide offers a sophisticated blend of heritage architecture, world-class food, and accessible nature. This three-day itinerary balances city culture with the region's famous wine country and pristine coastline.
Day 1: City Heritage and Culinary Icons
Start your trip by immersing yourself in the heart of the city, which is easily navigable on foot or via the free city tram.
- Morning: Adelaide Central Market
Begin at the Adelaide Central Market (closed Sundays and Mondays). It is one of the largest fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Eat: Grab a coffee and a legendary croissant at Le Souk or sit down for a traditional breakfast at Lucia’s Pizza & Spaghetti Bar, an institution since 1957.
- Afternoon: North Terrace Cultural Precinct
Walk to North Terrace to explore the Art Gallery of South Australia and the South Australian Museum. Afterward, wander through the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Don't miss the stunning Bicentennial Conservatory and the Palm House.
- Evening: East End Dining
- Visit: Take a walk through Rundle Mall to see the "Mall’s Balls" sculpture before heading to the East End.
- Eat: Book ahead for Africola for bold, fire-cooked African flavors, or try Golden Boy for high-energy, contemporary Thai.
Day 2: Vineyards and Vistas
Adelaide is known as a "Great Wine Capital of the World," with several regions just a short drive away.
- Morning & Afternoon: Adelaide Hills & Hahndorf
Head into the Adelaide Hills (30 mins from CBD). Start at Mount Lofty Summit for panoramic views of the city. Then, visit Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement.
- Visit: Walk the main street of Hahndorf for boutique shops and galleries. Visit the Hahndorf Hill Winery for a "ChocoVino" experience (chocolate and wine pairing).
- Eat: For lunch, enjoy a traditional German platter and a steiner of beer at The German Arms Hotel or the Hahndorf Inn.
- Evening: Small Bar Hopping
Return to the city to explore Peel Street and Leigh Street, the heart of Adelaide’s small-bar scene.
- Eat: Share tapas at Peel St Restaurant or try the refined Italian fare at Fugazzi Bar & Dining Room.
Day 3: Coastal Vibes and Sunsets
Finish your trip by heading to the coast to experience Adelaide’s famous white-sand beaches.
- Morning: Port Adelaide or Adelaide Oval
- Option A: Visit Port Adelaide to see historic maritime buildings and take a dolphin-spotting cruise in the sanctuary.
- Option B: Thrill-seekers should head to Adelaide Oval for a RoofClimb to see the city and the hills from the top of the stadium.
- Afternoon: Glenelg Beach
Catch the heritage tram from Victoria Square directly to Glenelg. Walk along the jetty and browse the shops on Jetty Road.
- Evening: Sunset Dinner by the Sea
- Visit: Watch the sunset from the sand; it is arguably the best spot in the city for golden hour.
- Eat: Dine at Seafire on the Marina for premium steaks or Sammy’s on the Marina for fresh South Australian seafood.
Practical Tips
- Transport: The city center is a grid and very walkable. Use the free city tram that runs between the South Terrace and the Entertainment Centre.
- Booking: Adelaide’s top restaurants (like Africola or Shōbōsho) book out weeks in advance for weekends—secure your spot early.
- Timing: If the Central Market is closed during your visit, swap Day 1 with another day to ensure you don't miss it!