Adelaide is a city full of incredible tours and adventures to experience. One of the most popular tours that visitors love to take is the Glenelg Sunset Cruise.
This tour takes you out on the ocean to watch the stunning sunset over Adelaide, which is truly a sight to behold. You’ll feel relaxed and at peace as you bask in the beauty of this natural wonder. The cruise includes beverages and snacks that will make your trip even more enjoyable.
Another exciting tour in Adelaide is swimming with dolphins. This unforgettable adventure allows you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures as they swim around you in their natural habitat.
Your guide for this tour is a marine biologist who will provide plenty of information about dolphin behavior and life under the sea. It’s an adventure that will stay with you long after your vacation ends. These are just two examples of the amazing tours offered in Adelaide – there are plenty more to explore!
Best Time to Visit Adelaide
If you’re planning a trip to Adelaide, it’s important to choose the right time of year to visit. The best time to visit Adelaide is during the months of March through May, and September through November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant with moderate temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Summer in Adelaide can get quite hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F) at times.
This can make it uncomfortable for visitors who are not used to such high temperatures.
However, if you do decide to visit Adelaide during the summer months from December through February, be sure to pack light and stay hydrated.
Winter in Adelaide is generally mild with temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 16°C (61°F). While it may not be as warm as in other seasons, there are still plenty of indoor activities and events to enjoy.
Overall, the best time to visit Adelaide depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. No matter when you decide to visit this beautiful city, there are always plenty of exciting activities and attractions waiting for you!
10 Top Things to do in Adelaide
Adelaide is a city known for its charm, relaxed atmosphere, and lively cultural scene. There are plenty of things to do in Adelaide that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back day by the beach or an exciting night out on the town, you won’t be disappointed.
March is undoubtedly the best time to visit Adelaide as it marks the start of the city’s festival season. The Adelaide Fringe Festival is undoubtedly the most popular of them all and attracts visitors from all over Australia and beyond.
This world-class event features music, art, circus performances, comedy shows, theatre productions, dance performances, and cultural displays from around the globe.
Apart from this festival, there are many other events happening throughout March such as WOMADelaide, Royal Adelaide Show, Future Music Festival Groovin’ the Moo, and Stereosonic Festival that keep visitors entertained throughout their stay.
If you’re looking for something unique during your visit in March make sure to check out these festivals for an unforgettable experience.
One of the must-visit attractions during your visit to Adelaide is The Garden of Unearthly Delights located in Rundle Park East Terrace. It was initially created as a part of Adelaide’s Fringe Festival but now
1. Riverwalk
The river walk along the Torrens in Adelaide is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the city. With several access points, including direct access from the Adelaide Intercontinental on North Terrace, it makes for an easy and enjoyable activity to start your morning.
The river has a distinct English feel, with the historic bandstand that was forged in Glasgow in 1882 and the rowing crews out on the water. There are also many deciduous trees lining its banks which also add to this aesthetic.
There are several ways to explore and experience the Torrens River. One option is taking a river cruise onboard one of the Popeye boats that have been operating since 1935, or you could opt for breakfast at Jolleys Boathouse café located inside a historic Lounders boatshed.
To explore further, there are several bridges along the way allowing access to some of Adelaide’s key landmarks such as Flanders Street station and North Adelaide.
We particularly loved following the exhibition center’s path to the zoo along with a quick detour over Albert bridge, which provided exceptional views of parks and heritage buildings on both sides of the water.
Overall, we would highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll along Torrens River if you ever find yourself in Adelaide
2. Botanical gardens
The Botanical gardens in the central city have become an iconic attraction for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts. Covering over 50 hectares, these gardens offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The lush green landscapes, vibrant flower beds, and well-maintained walking paths make it a perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, or even morning runs.
The attention to detail is evident from the formal rose gardens to the Australian forest and wetlands that provide a sustainable water supply for the garden. It’s easy to forget that you’re in the middle of a city as you get lost amongst the winding paths and stunning scenery.
Amongst other features, what makes this botanical garden unique is its three glasshouses. Housing an Australian rainforest, a giant Amazonian waterlily dating back to 1868, and a collection of Madagascan palms respectively, these glasshouses offer visitors an immersive experience into different ecosystems – a rarity within urban areas.
Down in the southeast corner lies The National Wine Centre – dedicated to educating people on wines and vines specific to Australia before visitors head out to South Australia’s wine districts such as Barossa Valley. Therefore, whether you are after some tranquil time with nature or learning about
3. Heritage walk
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, boasts a rich heritage that is deeply rooted in its architecture. As the first city in Australia settled entirely by free settlers, Adelaide’s architecture reflects its early days and the historical events that shaped it.
The city’s iconic landmarks such as Parliament House and Town Hall are not just beautiful structures but also provide important insights into the political and social history of the city.
Walking through the streets of Adelaide’s heritage precincts can be a truly immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the unique beauty and significance of these historical sites.
For those who want to explore Adelaide’s heritage at a more leisurely pace in their own time, taking a self-directed walk through the city is an excellent option. You can download maps from the internet or get them from the Visitor Information Centre in James Place near Rundle Mall.
The trails provide detailed information about various sites of historical importance and guide you through some of Adelaide’s most significant architectural buildings. Whether you prefer to explore on your own or with a group tour, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to marvel at Adelaide’s rich cultural heritage, from cathedrals to statues and heritage bridges that still cross River Torrens.
4. Street Art Walking trail
Street art has become a popular and important form of expression in many cities around the world. Adelaide is no exception, and it has established an impressive collection of street art that showcases the incredible talent of local artists. Walking through the back streets and alleyways of Adelaide, visitors are treated to a visually stunning array of murals, paintings, and installations.
This street art walking trail is perfect for those who appreciate this exciting art form or simply want to explore a different side of the city.
Despite its growing importance, however, Adelaide’s street art scene is still relatively underground when compared to other Australian cities like Melbourne. Nevertheless, Adelaide has made great strides in promoting and curating its street art under the banner of Vibrant Adelaide.
The result is a beautiful collection of urban artworks that adds vibrancy and character to the city’s laneways and hidden passages. Whether you’re an experienced street art enthusiast or just someone who enjoys beautiful urban landscapes, exploring this trail should be on your list the next time you’re in Adelaide – just remember to bring comfortable shoes!
5. Himeji Gardens
Himeji is a stunning historic city located in Japan, which is known for its famous Japanese castle and beautiful gardens. My visit to Himeji was specifically planned to explore these fascinating tourist attractions. The Himeji Gardens were particularly impressive and stood out as one the must-visit spots in the city.
Established in 1982, these gardens are named after Himeji’s sister city Adelaide in Australia, and are situated on South Terrace. Though it might take a little bit of time to reach there because of its location away from major attractions, taking the free tram ride would be a convenient option.
During my visit to Adelaide’s Himeji Gardens, I was delighted to see how well-balanced the garden design is. The gardens have a calm and serene atmosphere that thoroughly reflects the traditional Japanese style combined with modern elements.
It’s evident that considerable effort and thought went into creating this magnificent garden which remains a pride of Adelaide. Furthermore, being able to witness nature’s beauty during spring blossom made it even better for me – an unforgettable experience indeed!
Overall, I had an excellent time visiting Adelaide’s Himeji Gardens and would highly recommend them as worth visiting when exploring Australian-Japanese culture fusion tourism.
6. Rundle Mall
Rundle Mall is the go-to destination for shopping in Adelaide. It’s anchored by major department stores, including David Jones and Myer, and also features smaller boutiques, specialty stores, cafes, and restaurants.
Visitors can indulge in some of South Australia’s finest local confectionery at Haigh’s Chocolates located on the eastern end of the mall, which has been delighting chocolate lovers since 1915. Another popular spot is Adelaide Arcade – a picture-perfect heritage shopping arcade opened in 1885 that offers an impressive range of shops with ornate architecture.
The mall stretches nearly to the heart of Adelaide city center and was built as an extension of Rundle Street. It caters to every taste with its branded retail outlets from fashion to jewelry to cosmetics.
You can find designer styles like ‘Gorman’, ‘Zara’ or ‘Apple’ under one roof without having to leave Rundle Mall! Overall, it’s a lively shopping area that provides both locals and tourists with an excellent shopping experience along with access to key amenities such as public restrooms and ATMs.
7. Adelaide Oval
The Adelaide Oval is an iconic sporting ground in South Australia that is popular among sports enthusiasts. Even those who are not particularly interested in sports would agree that the Adelaide Oval is a sight to behold.
The oval boasts incredible views of the city skyline, especially if viewed from across the river. In fact, tourists often gather on the banks of River Torrens to catch a glimpse of this famous landmark.
For visitors who want to experience more than just the view, there are several options available at Adelaide Oval. One can purchase tickets to watch local games and cheer for their favorite team or take a stadium tour to learn more about its history and architecture.
For those seeking thrills, the roof climb challenge provides an exciting opportunity to climb up onto the roof of the oval and enjoy stunning panoramic views. Whatever activity you choose at Adelaide Oval, it is guaranteed to be a memorable experience that will stay with you for years to come.
8. Adelaide Zoo
Adelaide Zoo is a renowned wildlife park located in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia. It is home to over 2,500 animals and more than 250 species. Among these, the zoo’s most famous residents are undoubtedly its Giant Pandas, Wang Wang, and Fu Ni.
These adorable animals have captured the hearts of visitors from around the world. They arrived at Adelaide Zoo in late 2009 from China and have since become one of the main highlights of the zoo.
However, beyond their cuteness lies an important role that they play in conservation efforts. Giant Pandas are on the brink of extinction with only an estimated 1,800 individuals remaining in the wild due to habitat loss and human encroachment among other factors.
The arrival of Wang Wang and Fu Ni at Adelaide Zoo was part of an international agreement between China and Australia aimed at strengthening conservation programs to ensure a sustainable future for these magnificent creatures.
9. Adelaide Central Markets
Established in 1869, the Adelaide Central Markets are a must-visit for any food lover. Located in the heart of the city, they are the largest undercover markets in the Southern Hemisphere.
Free parking is available upstairs, making it easy to stock up on fresh produce and local goods. Although it’s not open daily, the market is open from Tuesday through Saturday.
A committed foodie will definitely find Adelaide Central Markets a paradise of regional produce. The variety on offer is truly marvelous; you can find everything from seafood and meat to fresh fruits and vegetables.
It’s a pleasure to stroll around getting lost between stalls that offer unique products or watching top culinary chefs at work in their kitchen shops. Even if you’re just passing through Adelaide, make sure to set aside some time for this market as it won’t disappoint. Whether you’re looking for a restock of essentials or want to try something new, the Adelaide Central Markets is not to be missed.
10. Chinatown
Adelaide’s Chinatown is a vibrant and bustling district located between the Grote and Gouger streets in Adelaide, Australia. The unmistakable red gates with the guardian lions mark the entrance to this exciting area teeming with Asian businesses ranging from grocery stores to restaurants.
The gastronomic options in this district are diverse and reflective of cultures from Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, Korea, and China. If you want to experience authentic Chinese cuisine or indulge in Yum Cha with friends, then Chinatown is definitely the place for you.
One of the highlights of Adelaide’s Chinatown is the frequent Lunar New Year celebrations that take place here annually.
The festivities bring out residents and tourists alike to enjoy the lively parades, cultural performances, and traditional food displays. With such welcoming traditions like these, it’s no surprise that locals hold this district as being one of their proudest cultural landmarks.
Furthermore, it also serves as an important economic contributor through its business operations – providing valuable supplies and supporting diverse employment opportunities for people within Adelaide’s population. A trip to this vibrant location must most certainly be on your Australian travel itinerary!
