Adelaide holidays

How to reach Adelaide

Flight time: Flights to Adelaide from London take around 21 to 24 hours. There are no direct connections so there’s always a stopover, typically at Dubai, Singapore or Doha.

Transfer time:

• The easiest option to reach the city centre from Adelaide Airport is to take a taxi, but there’s also a public bus.

• Travel time is 15 to 20 minutes.

Price:

• A taxi to the city centre costs approximately AUD25–AUD35, while for the public JetBus one-way ticket expect to pay AUD5.

Best time to visit Adelaide

Due to its Mediterranean climate, the city experiences pleasant weather year-long, but the best time for your holidays to Adelaide will depend on your expectations.

• March to May is Adelaide’s autumn and one of the best times to visit if you want to explore the city, with manageable temperatures (15°C to 24°C), 7 to 8 hours of sunshine a day and infrequent rain.

• June to August brings winter to the city. Temperatures range between 8°C and 16°C and it can be rainy. It may be a convenient time to come if you’re after visiting the city’s museums and galleries and you want to avoid the crowds.

• September to November is Adelaide’s spring and a charming time to visit. Temperatures range between 11°C and 22°C, and it’s sunny so it’s a great time to participate in the city’s springtime festivals and outdoor events.

• December to February are very hot summer months with temperatures climbing up to 30°C, and 10 to 11 hours of sunshine daily. There’s minimal rainfall so it seems the ideal time to come for ardent beach-goers.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language spoken in Adelaide, but given the city’s multicultural character you’re bound to hear many other languages too.

• Local habits and customs: People in Adelaide are easygoing and used to dining out late; many restaurants are not getting busy until after 8 pm. Tipping is appreciated but not a must.

• Currency: The currency in Adelaide is the Australian Dollar. All major credit cards are accepted at most places and ATMs are widely available.

• Getting around: Adelaide has an efficient public transport network comprising buses, trams and trains. A single journey on public transport costs around AUD4, but if you purchase a metroCARD, you’ll get cheaper rates. Taxis and rideshares are available too.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage in Adelaide is 230V, using plugs with three flat pins, so UK travellers need a plug adaptor.

• Time zone: Adelaide operates on Australian Central Standard Time (ACST), which is GMT+9.5.

Best things to do in Adelaide

Holidays to Adelaide are ideal for all types of travellers. Historical monuments, an excellent food and wine scene, and impressive outdoors – Adelaide has it all.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mount Lofty Summit: This hill towering just outside the city is probably the most popular spot frequented by landscape photographers and all those who want to soak up the beauty of Adelaide’s panoramic vistas.

• River Torrens: Take a walk along the River Torrens, and marvel at stunning views of the city skyline, particularly impressive at dusk when the city lights start twinkling.

The best districts

• North Terrace: Adelaide’s cultural boulevard right in the city centre, with its impressive architecture, is home to some of the city’s major institutions, such as the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australian Museum, the State Library and two University of South Australia campuses.

• Glenelg: Located just a short distance from the city centre, Glenelg is the city’s seaside suburb and one of the locals’ most beloved spots. The area’s lively promenade, historic attractions and a beautiful sandy beach make it a perfect destination for a whole day out.

Parks and gardens

• Adelaide Botanic Garden: After a day packed with sightseeing, relax in peace and quiet in Adelaide’s Botanic Garden, graced with such landmarks as the Bicentennial Conservatory and the Amazon Waterlily Pavilion.

• Himeji Garden: This peaceful, traditional Japanese-style garden is like a little bit of Japan brought to Adelaide. An ideal place for a leisurely stroll after a good lunch.

Historical monuments

• Adelaide Oval: Adelaide’s iconic cricket ground established in 1871 is a mecca for sports fans and home to the Bradman Collection dedicated to Australia’s most famous cricketer, Sir Donald Bradman. Join a tour of the Oval or spend the night at Australia’s first stadium hotel which was launched there in 2024.

• Ayers House Museum: This grand mansion, dating back to the 19th century and offering a journey back in time to Adelaide’s colonial past, used to be home to a former Premier of South Australia.

• Adelaide Gaol: Being one of the oldest buildings in South Australia, this historic prison has a really fascinating history. But a night-time ghost tour of the gaol may well turn out to be even more fascinating.

Day trips in the area

• Barossa Valley: Enjoy a day of wine tasting at this world-famous wine region, touring vineyards and sampling delicious local produce.

• Kangaroo Island: This island is all about outstanding landscapes, lovely beaches, and close encounters with seals and koalas. No worries: kangaroos too.

• McLaren Vale: McLaren Vale is another top wine region close to Adelaide. It’s well known for red wines, with Shiraz being the most famous variety. Tasting wine and having lunch in one of the local restaurants is a perfect excuse to take a trip to McLaren Vale.

• Hahndorf: Hahndorf is a quaint charmer of a town in Adelaide Hills, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, with many craft shops, galleries, and restaurants offering German specialities.

Activities for families in Adelaide

There’s no shortage of things to do for entire families during their Adelaide holidays.

• Adelaide Zoo: Home to some 2,500 animals, the 140-year-old Adelaide Zoo is a perfect spot to watch giant pandas, while the local petting zoo never fails to delight its young visitors.

• Cleland Wildlife Park: Another good idea is a visit to this wildlife park, just outside Adelaide, where children can get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most iconic inhabitants including koalas and kangaroos.

• South Australian Museum: This admission-free museum offers a multitude of exhibits intended for young visitors, among them the popular hands-on natural history department and Ancient Egypt gallery.

Free things to do in Adelaide

If you’re looking for activities that won’t ruin you, Adelaide has lots of free attractions to offer.

• Free events: Adelaide hosts a wealth of free festivals and events, including the Adelaide Fringe Festival and the OzAsia Festival, so be sure to check out the schedule while in the city.

• Exploring the city on foot: Try a very rewarding self-guided tour along North Terrace, visiting the city’s most iconic landmarks at no cost at all.

• Adelaide Central Market: Wandering among the stalls in this lively centre of local produce can be a real feast for the senses, especially as you can taste samples of local foods for free.

Nature and outdoor activities in Adelaide

Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife-watching, paragliding or water sports, Adelaide’s great outdoors are here for you.

• National parks: Adelaide is surrounded by a few impressive national parks, among them the Cleland Conservation Park. It’s a perfect area for hiking or native wildlife spotting. Or you may choose to explore Flinders Ranges National Park, famous for its rugged natural beauty and rare geological formations.

• Beaches and water activities: Adelaide’s coastline offers plenty of water activities like swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking (Henley Beach and Brighton Beach), snorkelling (Port Noarlunga Reef) or surfing (Middleton Beach).

• Adventure activities: Those who seek a real thrill flock to Morialta Conservation Park to enjoy paragliding off the high cliffs at Semaphore Beach or climbing the nearby rocky hill faces.

Discover the beautiful beaches of Adelaide

Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is renowned for its stunning beaches that stretch along the picturesque coastline, offering a perfect escape for sun seekers and water enthusiasts. With a diverse range of beaches to choose from, visitors can enjoy everything from relaxed family-friendly shores to lively spots buzzing with activities. Here’s a closer look at some must-visit beaches during your Adelaide holidays.

Glenelg Beach

• Glenelg Beach: One of the most popular beaches in Adelaide, Glenelg Beach is known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning sunsets. With its golden sands and calm waters, it’s an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. The nearby Jetty Road is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it easy to grab a bite to eat after a day at the beach. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the historic jetty for beautiful coastal views.

Henley Beach

• Henley Beach: Just a short drive from the city centre, Henley Beach offers a relaxed atmosphere with a family-friendly vibe. The beach features soft sands and clear waters, perfect for swimming and beach games. The Henley Square area is a great place to unwind, with plenty of dining options and vibrant bars where you can enjoy a drink as the sun sets over the ocean.

Brighton Beach

• Brighton Beach: Known for its colourful beach huts, Brighton Beach is a picturesque spot perfect for a leisurely day by the sea. The gentle waves and sandy shores make it ideal for families, while the nearby Brighton Jetty offers fantastic fishing opportunities. Explore the charming cafes and shops along the beachfront for a taste of local culture.

Semaphore Beach

• Semaphore Beach: This beach is known for its long stretch of sand and relaxed atmosphere. Semaphore Beach is perfect for a family day out, featuring picnic areas, playgrounds, and a shallow swimming area for children. The nearby Semaphore Jetty and the vibrant amusement park add to the beach’s charm, making it a fun destination for visitors of all ages.

Water sports and activities

Adelaide's beaches are also great for a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. Many beaches offer rental facilities and lessons for beginners, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun. Additionally, the coastal paths are perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, allowing you to soak in the stunning ocean views.

With its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Adelaide is a fantastic destination for beach lovers. Whether you’re lounging on the sand, engaging in thrilling water sports, or enjoying the local dining scene, the beaches of Adelaide promise unforgettable experiences during your holidays.

Local dishes in Adelaide

Fresh local ingredients, multicultural cuisine, top-notch wine – indulge in some culinary delights on your Adelaide holidays!

Some typical dishes

• Pie Floater: This typical Adelaide meal is just a meat pie topped with some tomato sauce and dipped in a thick pea soup.

• King George Whiting: Seafood aficionados will love this fish! Endemic to Australia, King George Whiting is typically grilled or fried and served with chips.

• Coorong Mullet: Another Australian favourite, this fish has a sweet flavour and is often pan-fried or grilled, and served accompanied by charred or pickled fennel.

Meat dishes

• *Chargrilled Steak: Fancy a premium, locally sourced steak cooked to perfection over an open flame? Head straight to one of Adelaide’s steak houses.

• Lamb Yiros: Adelaideans don’t shy away from Greek flavours and recipes. Lamb yiros (or gyros), that is a soft pitta filled with succulent lamb, with the addition of garlic sauce, is one of their favourites.

Fish and seafood dishes

• South Australian Prawns: These lovely prawns are large and juicy and they are typically served chilled with lemon or as a key ingredient of a seafood platter.

• Oysters from Coffin Bay: Their flavour being clean and briny, Coffin Bay oysters are considered one of the best in the world. So if you’re a seafood enthusiast, don’t shun the opportunity to try them in Adelaide.

Sweets and desserts

• Frog Cakes: Frog Cakes are shaped like… frogs, you guessed it! But they are filled with yummy jam and cream which makes them irresistible.

• Kitchener Bun: This mouthwatering dessert is a deep-fried bun, filled with raspberry jam and whipped cream. Sounds delicious? If so, get it at one of Adelaide’s bakeries.

Local drinks

• Shiraz: Wash down a perfect meal in Adelaide with rich, full-bodied Shiraz, one of the best South Australian wines.

• Sparkling Wine: Adelaide is your place if you want to try top-notch sparkling wines, which can be perfectly paired with local dishes.

• Craft Beer: Local breweries such as the Little Bang Brewery or Pirate Life Brewing create a range of ales and lagers, well reflecting the city’s growing craft beer scene.