City guides
Australia
South Australia
Things to do in Adelaide
Adelaide is often seen as one of Australia's more understated cities, but visitors soon discover that there's plenty to see and do here. From exploring elegant architecture and boutique shopping in the suburbs to soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches or enjoying the city's lively dining, arts, and nightlife scene, Adelaide offers something for everyone.
Many visitors begin in the historic beachside suburb of Glenelg, enjoying a stroll along the pier with an ice-cream in hand, before heading into the Adelaide Hills to Mt Lofty Summit for panoramic views across the city and coastline. Sports fans can catch a cricket match at the iconic Adelaide Oval, while culture lovers will enjoy the Art Gallery of South Australia on North Terrace, home to more than 35,000 works of art. The nearby Migration Museum tells the stories of South Australia's settlers and diverse communities.
Nature enthusiasts can explore Belair National Park, the state's oldest national park, with its walking trails and picnic spots, or visit Cleland Wildlife Park to see native animals such as koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies up close. The Adelaide Botanic Garden provides a peaceful escape in the heart of the city, while beaches such as West Beach and Henley Beach are perfect for a family stroll or a swim. And to end the day, a tour of the Coopers Brewery provides a chance to sample an ice-cold beer from South Australia's famous family-owned brewer.
Hahndorf
Just 25 minutes from Adelaide, the picturesque Adelaide Hills are home to Hahndorf, Australia's oldest surviving German settlement. Founded in 1839 by Lutheran settlers from Prussi…
Hahndorf
Just 25 minutes from Adelaide, the picturesque Adelaide Hills are home to Hahndorf, Australia's oldest surviving German settlement. Founded in 1839 by Lutheran settlers from Prussia, this charming village blends European heritage with country hospitality. Visitors can stroll beneath century-old trees, admire historic stone cottages, and browse boutiques filled with local crafts and produce. Cafés, restaurants and traditional pubs serve hearty German fare, local wines and craft beers. Surrounded by vineyards, Hahndorf also features nearby cellar doors and the popular Beerenberg Farm, where visitors can pick strawberries in season. With its heritage charm and scenic surroundings, Hahndorf is the perfect place to experience the relaxed spirit and flavours of the Adelaide Hills.
Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island, Australia's third largest island, lies about eight miles (13km) off the South Australian mainland. It's famous for its abundant wildlife, including sea lions, fair…
Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island, Australia's third largest island, lies about eight miles (13km) off the South Australian mainland. It's famous for its abundant wildlife, including sea lions, fairy penguins, kangaroos and more. Visitors are encouraged to stay at least two days to fully explore its natural beauty.
The island has a small farming community known for producing specialty foods such as honey and cheese, while fresh seafood is also a highlight. Separated from the mainland during the last Ice Age, Kangaroo Island is home to unique plants and animals found nowhere else.
About a third of the island is protected in national parks and reserves. Visitors can explore via organised tours or self-guided walking trails, enjoying close encounters with native wildlife and stunning coastal views.
Website www.tourkangarooisland.com.au
Adelaide Botanic Garden
The Adelaide Botanic Garden is a top free attraction in the city centre, offering a peaceful spot to enjoy nature. Highlights include the ancient Wollemi Pine, Australia's oldest a…
Adelaide Botanic Garden
The Adelaide Botanic Garden is a top free attraction in the city centre, offering a peaceful spot to enjoy nature. Highlights include the ancient Wollemi Pine, Australia's oldest avenue of Morton Bay Fig trees, and the beautiful rose garden. The Bicentennial Conservatory features tropical plants and the famous Amazon Waterlily display, while the historic Palm House showcases palms and cycads.
The Santos Museum of Economic Botany reveals the importance of plants through interesting exhibits. Near the lake, visitors will find kiosks and a popular restaurant with lovely garden views, perfect for a relaxing lunch. The gardens are ideal for strolling, exercise, and learning.
Website www.environment.sa.gov.au/botanicgardens/home
Flinders Ranges
The Flinders Ranges, one of South Australia's few elevated landscapes, is a must-visit Outback destination, where dramatic cliffs, valleys and ridges come alive in glowing colours …
Flinders Ranges
The Flinders Ranges, one of South Australia's few elevated landscapes, is a must-visit Outback destination, where dramatic cliffs, valleys and ridges come alive in glowing colours at sunrise and sunset. Just 25 miles (40 km) from Port Augusta, the historic town of Quorn serves as a hub for adventure tours and the Pichi Richi Railway, which winds through the scenic Pichi Richi Pass. Further north, Hawker provides access to the breathtaking Wilpena Pound (Ikara) within Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. Here, visitors can explore ancient Aboriginal rock engravings at Sacred Canyon and enjoy countless bushwalks through this timeless, awe-inspiring landscape.
Website www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/ikara-flinders-ranges-national-park
Coober Pedy
Coober Pedy is the world's largest opal mining town, and lies 540 miles (850 km) north of Adelaide in South Australia's harsh Outback, where intense heat drives locals underground.…
Coober Pedy
Coober Pedy is the world's largest opal mining town, and lies 540 miles (850 km) north of Adelaide in South Australia's harsh Outback, where intense heat drives locals underground. Homes, businesses, a church, and studios are carved into the earth, and visitors can explore working and show mines, browse the museum and shops, or stay at the unique Desert Cave Hotel. Situated on Stuart Highway (Highway 87), Coober Pedy is reachable by car, bus, or small aircraft, and offers a truly unforgettable Outback experience.
Website www.cooberpedy.com
Barossa Valley
About an hour's drive from Adelaide, The Barossa Valley is South Australia's premier wine region and is famed for its hot, dry summers, loamy soils, and world-class Shiraz. Tanunda…
Barossa Valley
About an hour's drive from Adelaide, The Barossa Valley is South Australia's premier wine region and is famed for its hot, dry summers, loamy soils, and world-class Shiraz. Tanunda, the valley's heart, showcases German heritage through its museums and architecture, while Mengler Hill lookout offers sweeping views, and hot-air balloon rides provide a unique perspective. Visitors can explore more than 80 wineries, discover the region's history at the Barossa Wine Centre, and time their visit for the bi-annual Barossa Vintage Festival, which celebrates wine, food, and local culture.
Website www.barossa.com