Adelaide City

Overview

Adelaide is South Australia’s laid-back capital, known for its vibrant food scene, elegant sandstone architecture and easy access to the coast and wine regions. It’s a city that’s just as good for wandering on foot as it is for day trips, with parklands circling the city centre and buzzing neighbourhoods packed with markets, small bars and galleries.

Whether you’re into art, food, beaches or wine, Adelaide makes a great starting point — or finish line — for any South Australian road trip. And with The Road Trip Oz, you can explore Adelaide and beyond without the stress of planning or navigating.

Explore Adelaide Your Way

At The Road Trip Oz, we make it easy to experience Adelaide and the surrounding regions. Whether you prefer to go at your own pace or enjoy the ease of a guided trip, we’ve got options to suit every kind of traveller.

• Self-drive tours – We’ll help you map out the best city stops, nearby wine regions and coastal drives.
• Small group tours – Explore the city and surrounds with a local guide and a crew of like-minded travellers.
• Private guided tours – Sit back and relax while your personal guide takes you from city laneways to hidden local gems.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer (Dec–Feb): Long days and coastal escapes

This is the perfect time to make the most of Adelaide’s beach lifestyle. Hot, dry days are ideal for swimming, outdoor dining, and late sunsets by the water.

• Cool off at Glenelg or Henley Beach
• Enjoy evening food festivals and twilight markets
• Catch an outdoor cinema or live music event in the Botanic Gardens

Autumn (Mar–May): Mild weather and vibrant events

With comfortable temperatures and plenty happening in the city, autumn is one of the best times to explore Adelaide and nearby wine regions.

• Join the festivities at Tasting Australia or Adelaide Festival
• Take a scenic drive through the Adelaide Hills as the leaves change
• Explore Mount Lofty Botanic Garden during its most colourful season

Winter (Jun–Aug): Cosy stays and quiet galleries

Adelaide slows down in winter, making it great for relaxed city stays, indoor attractions and day trips with fewer crowds.

• Warm up in Adelaide’s wine bars and hidden laneway restaurants
• Visit galleries, museums and markets at a gentler pace
• Take a scenic drive to Hahndorf and enjoy fireside lunches in the Hills

Spring (Sep–Nov): Gardens in bloom and fresh flavours

The city comes alive in spring, with flowers in bloom and plenty of new season produce.

• Visit the Adelaide Botanic Garden and Mount Lofty in full bloom
• Enjoy farmers’ markets and food trails through the Hills
• Get out to the coast before the summer crowds arrive

Best Things to See & Do in Adelaide

Iconic Highlights

• Adelaide Central Market – A must for food lovers, packed with local produce, pastries, coffee and culture
• Art Gallery of South Australia – Home to one of the country’s finest art collections
  
• Adelaide Oval RoofClimb – A unique way to see the city skyline
  
• Glenelg Beach – Easy to reach by tram and great for sunsets, swimming or seafood by the jetty
  
• North Terrace – The cultural heart of Adelaide, lined with historic buildings, museums and galleries
  
• Haigh’s Chocolate Factory – Take a free tour and taste some of Australia’s best-loved chocolate
  
• Adelaide Botanic Garden – Peaceful, green and perfect for a picnic or a morning stroll
  
• National Wine Centre – Sample drops from across the country without leaving the city
  
• Rundle Mall – Adelaide’s central shopping strip, full of life and local energy
  
• Victoria Square / Tarntanyangga – A great people-watching spot and home to regular events

Photo Hotspots

• Glenelg Jetty at sunset
  
• The Palm House in the Adelaide Botanic Garden
  
• The colourful stalls at Adelaide Central Market
  
• Rooftop views from the top of Adelaide Oval
  
• North Terrace’s grand sandstone architecture

Hidden Gems

• Peel Street and Leigh Street – Two of the city’s best laneways for food and small bars
  
• Carrick Hill – A historic estate with gardens and art, just 15 minutes from the CBD
• Henley Beach – Quieter than Glenelg but just as beautiful
  
• Himeji Garden – A peaceful Japanese garden near the city parklands

Where to Stay in Adelaide

Mid-Range Comfort

• The Franklin Boutique Hotel – A stylish pub stay with modern rooms right in the city
  
• Majestic Roof Garden Hotel – Great location, rooftop views and comfortable rooms
• Adabco Boutique Hotel – A relaxed stay in a heritage building close to everything

Luxury Stays

• Eos by SkyCity – A high-end city hotel with stunning river views and spa facilities
• Mayfair Hotel – Classic elegance with a rooftop bar and refined rooms
  
• Mount Lofty House – A luxurious country house hotel set in the Adelaide Hills

Choosing the Right Rental Car for Self-Drive Adventures

Adelaide is easy to navigate, and there’s plenty to explore within an hour or two of the city. The right vehicle depends on your travel style:

• Compact car – Great for exploring the city and short day trips to the beach or hills
• SUV – Ideal for longer drives, winery visits and carrying extra gear or luggage
• Luxury car – Make your city stay feel a bit more special with a comfortable, premium ride

Need help picking the right car? We’ll make sure you’ve got the perfect setup for your road trip.

Why Travel with The Road Trip Oz?

We know Adelaide like locals because we are. From the city’s best coffee to the easiest way to spend a perfect day by the coast, we’re here to help you get the most out of your time in South Australia. Whether it’s a guided tour, a self-drive itinerary or a relaxed group experience, we take care of the details so you can enjoy the journey.

• Private guided tours – No maps, no stress — just a local expert showing you the best of the city and surrounds
• Self-drive tours – We’ll plan it all out and give you everything you need for a smooth, easy adventure.
• Small group experiences – Travel with others and enjoy the trip with a relaxed, social vibe

Book Your Adelaide City Escape

Whether you’re kicking off a longer trip or just want a few days to eat, drink and explore, Adelaide is the perfect place to start.

Get in touch with The Road Trip Oz and let’s start planning your South Australian adventure.