Guide to Adelaide

Aboriginal name: Tarntanya (pronounced Tarn-tan-ya)

Welcome
Aboriginal
Getting to Adelaide
When to visit
Accessibility

Colourful cultural events, a thriving restaurant and small bar scene and fine wine make Adelaide your next must-visit destination.

The bustling city of Adelaide is brimming with events that excite, restaurants that inspire and beaches that make you feel at ease. What’s more, Adelaide sits right at the foot of three incredible wine regions that produce both world-renowned and under-the-radar wines. So when you visit, make sure you leave enough time to experience the city and explore its stunning surrounds.

The Adelaide Plains, known as Tarntanya, are the traditional lands of the Kaurna people. The plains stretch from Port Broughton, about a two-hour drive north from Adelaide’s city centre, all the way down to Cape Jervis.

One of the best ways to learn more about Kaurna history in the city is by following the Adelaide Kaurna walking trail, which links 17 significant sites like botanic gardens, museums and cultural centres. You can also visit Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute.

Traditional name: Tarntanya (pronounced Tarn-tan-ya)
Indigenous Peoples: The Kaurna people
Traditional languages: Kaurna
How to say g'day in Kaurna: Niina marni

Getting to Adelaide is easy with both domestic and international flights arriving here.

Adelaide Airport (ADL) is 7km (4.5mi) from the city and services domestic and international arrivals
Hire cars, ride shares and a shuttle service are available from the airport

If Melbourne is on your itinerary, consider driving along the iconic Great Ocean Road to reach Adelaide.

Adelaide is an easy city to get around, and while you can hire a car for your stay, it’s not necessary. The city has a great range of public transport options, and walking around the city will let you seek out hidden gems. Find more tips for getting around Adelaide.

The dry climate means that Adelaide's weather tends to be a bit cooler than Australia’s northern cities. During spring and autumn, there is very minimal rainfall which makes this the perfect time to explore the city on foot!

If the wineries are calling your name, then February and March is when the local vineyards are harvested so there will be plenty to see (and drink) on your tour.

High season: Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May)
Low season: Winter (June to August)
Don’t miss: Adelaide Festival and Adelaide Fringe (February to March)

You’ll find plenty of accessible options for accommodation, experiences and attractions when exploring Adelaide and the rest of South Australia.

Arrival: Adelaide Airport provides dedicated assistance for people with disabilities, helping with baggage and movement throughout the airport.
Getting around: You’ll find accessible public transport information on the Adelaide Metro website.
Accessible experience highlights: Adelaide is known for its scenic national parks that are brimming with wildlife, and many of these offer accessible facilities. The stunning Adelaide Hills wine region also promotes stellar accessible and inclusive experiences to explore.
Helpful resources: Download the Pavely app to search for accessible venues in and around Adelaide. Changing Places is a great tool for locating highly accessible bathroom facilities.

Top things to do in Adelaide

Climbers on the Adelaide Oval Roofclimb © South Australian Tourism Commission

Take in the views with RoofClimb

Head to the Adelaide Oval and embark on an adventure as you scale the roof of this iconic structure. Your reward? Unparalleled 360-degree views of Adelaide, from the coastline to the hills and beyond. Book an epic experience with RoofClimb.

Woman shopping at Adelaide Central Market © South Australian Tourism Commission / Matt Nettheim

Taste the fresh flavours of the region

A must-visit for foodies, explore the laneways of the Adelaide Central Market to find fruit, vegetables, cheese, seafood, international dishes and unique ingredients. Learn more about Adelaide’s most famous market.

Wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek in the Barossa Valley © John Montesi

Go wine tasting

South Australia is the country’s wine capital, and many of its best wineries are just a short drive from Adelaide. Discover the best locations for mouth-watering wines, lazy long lunches and bucket list cellar door experiences.

Aerial view of Rundle Mall in Adelaide © Adelaide City Council

Shop Adelaide's best precincts

From beachside boutiques to a pedestrian-only retail street, Adelaide’s shopping scene packs a punch. Seek out the city’s distinct style and take home a souvenir you’ll wear again and again. Here’s your guide to shopping in Adelaide.

Moseley Beach Club on Glenelg Beach near Adelaide © SATC

Hit the beach

Adelaide’s beaches boast more than sand and surf. Think beachfront bars, outstretched jetties and grassy picnic paddocks. The best part? These stunning stretches of sand are just minutes from the city. Check out the best beaches in Adelaide.

Garden Island, South Australia © Michael Waterhouse

Seek out a hidden gem

Just when you think you know Adelaide, there’s something new to experience. Sunken ships, American-style bars and secret Japanese gardens are just the beginning. Check out these hidden gems and get to know Adelaide like a local.

Kayaking the River Torrens in Adelaide with Earth Adventure © Joshua Pathon

Kayak the River Torrens

Embark on a gentle glide along the River Torrens as your guide explains the history and significance of the river and its surroundings. Book a half-day experience with Earth Adventure to see the city from this unique perspective.

Perusing art at the Art Gallery of South Australia © South Australian Tourism Commission

Embrace the art and culture scene

The world’s largest display of Aboriginal artefacts, a futuristic exhibit and a collection of more than 38,000 artworks – this and more is just waiting to be discovered in Adelaide’s art scene. See it all for yourself.

Celebrate Adelaide’s festivals

Adelaide loves to party, boasting a calendar packed with exciting festivals and city-wide celebrations. Music festivals, culinary showcases, sporting events and more – you can’t help but join in. Find out more about Adelaide’s epic festivals.

Tree kangaroo at Adelaide Zoo © Tourism Australia

Meet the animals at Adelaide Zoo

Home to 2,500 animals, Adelaide Zoo is all-day entertainment for all ages, with experiences like getting up close with tree kangaroos and koala meet and greets. Book a memorable encounter and discover what makes Australia’s animals so unique.

Woman in Morialta Conservation Park © Tourism Australia

Get outdoors

Adelaide is a great city for outdoor adventure. Mountain hikes, beachside cycling and wildlife-filled conservation parks mean there’s always a reason to embrace the outdoors. Browse a selection of experiences with PureSA.

Woman walking in the Adelaide Botanic Garden © Tourism Australia

Stroll the botanic gardens

Located in the heart of the city, the Adelaide Botanic Garden is a peaceful oasis. Wander through native and exotic plants (as well as a fascinating botanic museum) for the ultimate city escape. Check out what’s on at the Adelaide Botanic Garden.