Looking for a perfect romantic getaway where you can spend quality time? Adelaide might just be your ideal destination. This charming city strikes a unique balance between vibrant urban life, stunning natural landscapes and beautiful panoramic views. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lovers, or someone who loves the outdoors, Adelaide is a great place that has a little bit of everything.
Don’t know where to go? We got you! We prepared a two-day unforgettable getaway in Adelaide just for you!
Day 1: Adelaide Oval
Start your day at the iconic Adelaide Oval. It is known for its sports stadium which is rich in history and modern architecture. Beyond sports, it also hosts concerts. Take a walk on the rooftop for stunning views of the city.
It’s best to take a guided tour to explore the Adelaide Oval’s rich history, especially the Bradman Collection. This tribute to Sir Donald Bradman, the greatest batsman in cricket history. The place includes a wide range of memorabilia and artifacts celebrating his career and legacy. Admission is free so this is a perfect place to check out!
Besides sports and concerts, the Adelaide Oval also offers a variety of delicious food outlets to satisfy your hunger during your visit.
South Australian Museum & Art Gallery of South Australia
A short walk from the Adelaide Oval, visit the South Australian Museum and the Art Gallery of South Australia, located adjacent to each other on North Terrace. The museum has extensive collections in natural history and cultural heritage, while the art gallery features impressive Australian, European, and Asian art collections. Spend a few hours immersing yourself in art, history, and culture.
Adelaide Botanic Gardens
The Adelaide Botanic Gardens is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. It is just an 11-minute walk from the Art Gallery of South Australia. Wander through beautiful gardens, including the Palm House, a stunning Victorian glasshouse featuring a collection of plants from Madagascar.
Also, visit the Bicentennial Conservatory, which is the largest single-span glasshouse in the Southern Hemisphere. The Garden of Health showcases plants used for medicinal purposes, while the First Creek Wetland provides a natural habitat for wildlife and an educational experience about water management. Additionally, the Santos Museum of Economic Botany offers insights into the economic significance of plants.
The Adelaide Botanic Garden also features beautifully landscaped gardens, including the International Rose Garden and the Australian Native Garden, making it a perfect spot for slow strolls, picnics, and taking pictures. With a lot of activities and sights to see, the Adelaide Botanic Garden is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the city.
River Torrens
After enjoying the gardens, take a short drive and head over to the beautiful River Torrens for a relaxing kayak session. The river provides great views of the city’s skyline, parklands, and iconic landmarks like the Adelaide Oval. Other than that, it is easily accessible from the city center, making it a good option for a quick outdoor adventure.
Adelaide Central Market
Finish your first day at the vibrant Adelaide Central Market. This market provides a delightful mix of street food, local produce, and artisanal crafts. Enjoy live music, try out local or international cuisines, and pick up unique souvenirs. It’s a perfect spot to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.
Since this is a melting pot of different cuisines, you can immerse yourself in a culinary adventure featuring the best dishes from Malaysia, Japan, Italy, France, and more.
We’ve tried some of the best street food in Adelaide Central Market that will satisfy your tastebuds. First, if you’re looking for a true taste of Adelaide, you absolutely must dine at Lucia’s Pizza and Spaghetti Bar—it’s a local favourite that never disappoints. Next, if you’re in the mood for something adventurous, head over to Cumbia Bar Kitchen and treat yourself to their famous paella. For some Algerian cuisine, try out Le Souk’s Chakchouka beef and grab some of the most flavourful spice blends for your kitchen.
Also, Mediterranean flavours are well-represented at Si Sea, with must-try dishes like Spanish-style mussels, oysters with lemon, and soft sourdough brioche, all served in a fun and lively atmosphere.
The Central Market is not only a place to shop, but it’s also a place to eat! Immerse yourself with the friendly locals by visiting the ‘heart and soul’ of the city. It is the perfect place to chill out and relax with one of the greater parts of the community. Also, be prepared to have extra bags with you in case you buy souvenirs!
After eating to your heart’s content, consider staying the night at one of Adelaide’s finest hotels. Depending on your preferred amenities, here are some top choices:
Day 2: Kangaroo Island
Start your day early with a trip to Kangaroo Island, one of Australia’s top wildlife destinations. From Adelaide city center, travel to Cape Jervis and once you arrive, board the SeaLink ferry to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes. While a half-day tour offers a taste of the island’s natural beauty, a full-day trip is the way to truly discover its wonders.
Kick things off at Seal Bay Conservation Park, where you can stroll among sea lions, a unique and memorable experience. Don’t miss the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, providing very breathtaking coastal views that are perfect for photo ops.
After seeing all the water attractions, you may want to take a dip yourself. You can cool off by the Emu Beach located by the northern part of the island, and experience the pristine waters or white sandy beaches. Otherwise, if you’re planning to go south, you can visit Vivonne Bay. Vivonne Bay is one of Australia’s best beaches, it is known for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
For a thrill, head to Little Sahara for some sandboarding. Zooming down the towering dunes is a heart-pounding experience you won’t want to miss. And as you explore the island, keep an eye out for its diverse wildlife. Join a guided tour to spot koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitats.
By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced the best of Kangaroo Island, from its stunning beaches and unique wildlife to adrenaline-pumping adventures.
Must-Do Activities in Adelaide
Set some of these enjoyable activities into your list of things to do in Adelaide:
- Go on a mountain hike at Mt. Lofty:
An early morning hike to Mt. Lofty Summit offers spectacular views over Adelaide and the surrounding areas. The challenging trek through Cleland Conservation Park is rewarding with its panoramic vistas.
- Visit the Dolphin Sanctuary and Graveyard Kayak Tour:
For a unique experience, consider a kayak tour through the Dolphin Sanctuary and Ship’s Graveyard. Paddle through mangroves and spot dolphins in their natural habitat while exploring historic shipwrecks.
- Explore Fleurieu Peninsula:
This place is known for its stunning beaches, beautiful scenery, and charming towns. Just enjoy a relaxing dinner in one of the coastal towns such as Victor Harbor or Port Elliot. Also, grab the opportunity to take a stroll along the beach and watch the breathtakingly beautiful sunset.
- Taking a swim at Stokes Bay
If you can’t get enough of Kangaroo Island, visit the natural beauty of Stokes Bay. The bay offers one of the clearest waters in Australia, making it perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and simply enjoying the calm environment. The beach is somewhat secluded, adding to its charm, and getting there involves a bit of an adventure that makes the visit even more special.
- Yorke Peninsula
Whether you travel by car, public transport, or join a guided tour, Yorke Peninsula has plenty of attractions and activities for you to enjoy. The region is known for its beautiful beaches like Moonta Bay, Marion Bay, and Stansbury.
Here, explore historic mining towns such as Moonta and Kadina and learn about the region’s Cornish heritage. Food and wine enthusiasts will enjoy local produce, seafood, and the opportunity to visit wineries in the area.
Outdoor activities like surfing, diving, and boating are popular, along with cycling trails such as the Walk the Yorke trail. Also, the peninsula is one of the best places to spot local wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and various bird species.
What to Prepare for a Weekend Trip to Adelaide
Make your weekend adventure hassle-free and fun by considering these tips:
1. Plan Your Fun: Decide on cool spots to visit like Adelaide Zoo, Botanic Garden, Art Gallery of South Australia, and maybe a wine tour in Barossa Valley.
2. Book a Place: Reserve a nice hotel, Airbnb, or cozy B&B. Do this early so you get the best spot.
3. Sort Out Transport: Figure out how you’ll get around. Rent a car, check out public transit options, or plan to use rideshares.
4. Pack for the Weather: Check the forecast. Adelaide’s weather can vary, so bring layers, comfy shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
5. Gather Your Docs: Don’t forget your ID, driver’s license, passport (if you’re from abroad), and all your booking confirmations.
6. Gadget Essentials: Make your weekend getaway memorable by bringing your phone, charger, power bank, and a camera if you plan to take some instagrammable pictures.
7. Maps and Guides: Have a map or travel guide, just in case your phone loses signal or battery.
8. Snacks and Hydration: Pack some munchies and a reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated is key, especially if you’re out and about in Adelaide.
9. Money Matters: Make sure you have enough cash or a credit card that works in Australia. A bit of cash is handy for small purchases.
11. Gear Up: Depending on what you’re doing, pack swimwear, hiking boots, or plan your outfit for the day. Wearing comfy shoes is a must if you want to stroll around the city.
12. Emergency Info: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local numbers, and let someone know your travel plans.
13. Travel Insurance: Always travel prepared! Think about getting travel insurance for peace of mind in case something goes wrong.
Where to Stay In Adelaide
1. Mayfair Hotel
Located in the heart of Adelaide, the Mayfair Hotel offers luxury accommodations with elegant rooms, fine dining at the Mayflower Restaurant, and a sophisticated rooftop bar. The hotel combines classic style with modern amenities, providing a refined and comfortable stay. PS make sure you get a private balcony with your room. It’s worth it.
2. InterContinental Adelaide
InterContinental Adelaide is near the banks of the River Torrens. It features spacious rooms with stunning views, a range of dining options including Riverside Restaurant, and a well-equipped fitness centre. It’s found in the city center, which makes it ideal for both business and on-the-go travelers.
3. The Playford Adelaide – MGallery by Sofitel
This boutique hotel has an Art Nouveau style with lavish interiors, offering elegant rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and a heated indoor pool. The Playford is known for its unique charm and excellent service.
4. Hilton Adelaide
Overlooking Victoria Square, Hilton Adelaide offers modern rooms, a 24-hour fitness center, and a heated outdoor pool. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, including the Coal Cellar + Grill restaurant, which focuses on local produce and wines.
5. Stamford Plaza Adelaide
Stamford Plaza Adelaide offers luxurious accommodations with city and park views. The hotel features several dining options, a rooftop pool, and a fitness center. It’s known for its excellent service and prime location near key attractions. This hotel is located at the North Terrace.
6. Adina Apartment Hotel Adelaide Treasury
Housed in a heritage-listed building, this hotel offers stylish apartments with modern amenities, a heated pool, and a gym. The central location, combined with its historic charm, makes it a popular choice for extended stays and business travelers.
7. Crowne Plaza Adelaide
Located in the vibrant East End, Crowne Plaza Adelaide offers contemporary rooms with city views, an outdoor infinity pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The hotel’s central location is great for exploring Adelaide’s dining and cultural scenes.
8. Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide
Found in the heart of the city, Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide features comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and a fitness center. The hotel’s Sebastyan’s Bar and Grill offers a range of dining options, and its central location provides easy access to shopping and entertainment.
9. Pullman Adelaide
Offering stylish accommodations in the town centre, Pullman Adelaide features an indoor heated pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving modern Australian cuisine. The hotel’s fancy design and excellent amenities cater to both business and leisure travelers.
10. Oaks Adelaide Horizons Suites
This apartment hotel offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, a heated indoor pool, and a fitness center. Located on North Terrace, it provides easy access to Adelaide’s key attractions, making it a great choice if you want to stay a little longer in the city.
Conclusion
As you plan your short visit to Adelaide, make it a journey that you will never forget. Adelaide offers more than just a short break from the everyday; it presents a sparkling collection of experiences that cater to every taste and interest.
From the thrilling heights of the Adelaide Oval’s rooftop to the relaxing pathways of the Botanic Gardens, this city promises diverse adventures. Whether you’re savoring the historical echoes in the Bradman Collection or kayaking along the peaceful River Torrens, each moment in Adelaide is a chapter in a story you’ll want to tell again and again.
Consider the lush, verdant expanses of Kangaroo Island as your second day destination. Here, nature’s own artwork is on grand display, from the curious sea lions at Seal Bay to the surreal formations at Remarkable Rocks. It’s a place where wildlife roams freely, and the landscapes stir the soul—undeniably a highlight for those looking for a connection with nature.
In the middle of these natural wonders, Adelaide’s urban offerings are equally awesome. The Adelaide Central Market bursts with the flavors and voices of a community that loves to eat, share, and celebrate. This market isn’t just about food; it’s a cultural mosaic, vibrant with the colors and scents of global cuisines and local delights. It’s where the pulse of Adelaide’s heart beats the strongest, offering you a slice of local life. It’s a dining experiences that you want oto relive again and again.
As you wrap up your weekend adventure, take a moment to reflect on the memorable experiences in Adelaide. From cultural immersion to the culinary adventures in its markets, and from dreamy strolls in its botanical havens to the thrilling trails of Kangaroo Island, Adelaide has something for everyone. It’s a city where every corner has a story, every street an invitation, and every sunset a memory. Once you’ve finished in Adelaide make sure to head on over to Paris and follow my itinerary there too.
