Adelaide, South Australia
The perfect 7 days itinerary
Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia, is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, world-class vineyards, and stunning coastline. Often referred to as the 'City of Churches,' Adelaide boasts a rich cultural heritage, beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, and a lively festival calendar. The city is a gateway to some of Australia's most famous wine regions, including the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. With its blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, Adelaide offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors.
What to do in Adelaide?
This 7 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Adelaide. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Welcome to Adelaide
Morning
Start your Adelaide adventure with a visit to the Adelaide Central Market, one of the largest fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere. Enjoy breakfast at one of the market's cafes and explore the stalls brimming with local produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs.
Afternoon
Head to the Art Gallery of South Australia, home to an impressive collection of Australian, European, and Asian art. Spend the afternoon wandering through the gallery's diverse exhibitions. Next, take a stroll down North Terrace, Adelaide's cultural boulevard, and visit the South Australian Museum to learn about the region's natural history and Aboriginal culture.
Evening
Enjoy a relaxing evening at the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens and visit the Bicentennial Conservatory, one of the largest single-span glasshouses in the Southern Hemisphere. Finish the day with dinner at a nearby restaurant in the East End, known for its vibrant dining scene.
Day 2: Exploring Adelaide's Heritage
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Adelaide Oval, one of the most picturesque sporting grounds in the world. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the rooftop.
Afternoon
Explore the historic district of North Adelaide. Wander down O'Connell Street and Melbourne Street, lined with charming cafes, boutiques, and heritage buildings. Visit the St Peter's Cathedral, an iconic landmark with stunning Gothic architecture.
Evening
Head to the River Torrens and take a leisurely cruise on the Popeye, a scenic boat ride offering beautiful views of the city skyline and parklands. Enjoy dinner at one of the riverside restaurants, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Day 3: Wine and Dine in the Barossa Valley
Morning
Take a day trip to the Barossa Valley, one of Australia's premier wine regions. Start your tour with a visit to the Seppeltsfield Winery, known for its historic estate and century-old cellars. Enjoy a wine tasting and learn about the winemaking process.
Afternoon
Continue your wine journey with a visit to the Jacob's Creek Visitor Centre. Take a guided tour of the vineyards and enjoy a gourmet lunch paired with their finest wines. Afterward, explore the charming town of Tanunda, with its quaint shops and cafes.
Evening
Return to Adelaide and dine at one of the city's acclaimed restaurants, savoring local cuisine and reflecting on your day in the Barossa Valley.
Day 4: Adelaide Hills Adventure
Morning
Head to the Adelaide Hills, a picturesque region known for its rolling landscapes and charming villages. Visit the Mount Lofty Summit for breathtaking views of Adelaide and the surrounding countryside.
Afternoon
Explore the quaint village of Hahndorf, Australia's oldest surviving German settlement. Stroll down the main street lined with traditional German architecture, artisan shops, and cafes. Don't miss the Hahndorf Academy, showcasing local art and history.
Evening
Return to Adelaide and enjoy a relaxing evening at Glenelg Beach. Take a walk along the jetty, watch the sunset over the ocean, and dine at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Day 5: Coastal Beauty and Wildlife
Morning
Take a day trip to Kangaroo Island, a haven for wildlife and natural beauty. Start your adventure with a visit to the Seal Bay Conservation Park, where you can walk among a colony of Australian sea lions.
Afternoon
Explore the Flinders Chase National Park, home to remarkable rock formations like the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, koalas, and other native wildlife.
Evening
Return to Adelaide and enjoy a quiet evening, perhaps visiting a local pub to experience the city's laid-back nightlife.
Day 6: McLaren Vale Wine Region
Morning
Embark on a day trip to McLaren Vale, another of South Australia's renowned wine regions. Begin with a visit to the d'Arenberg Cube, a unique and contemporary winery offering immersive wine experiences.
Afternoon
Continue your wine tasting journey at the Wirra Wirra Vineyards, known for its beautiful grounds and exceptional wines. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the region's gourmet restaurants, sampling local produce and fresh seafood.
Evening
Return to Adelaide and take a leisurely evening stroll along the River Torrens. Reflect on your day of indulgence and perhaps stop by a riverside bar for a nightcap.
Day 7: Final Day in Adelaide
Morning
Spend your final day exploring the vibrant Rundle Mall, Adelaide's premier shopping destination. Browse the wide range of shops, boutiques, and department stores, and enjoy a coffee at one of the mall's cafes.
Afternoon
Visit the Migration Museum to learn about the diverse cultural history of South Australia. Then, take a walk through the nearby Botanic Park, home to the Adelaide Zoo, where you can see a variety of native and exotic animals.
Evening
Conclude your Adelaide adventure with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying panoramic views of the city. Reflect on your journey and the wonderful experiences you've had in Adelaide.
Discover more Adelaide itineraries
2 days