Enjoy a bespoke holiday with all the things you love

Adelaide

Are you a foodie and a beach lover? Australia's fifth-largest city is a vibrant holiday destination with friendly locals, amazing produce, and a galore of hidden gems. Explore over 20 beaches, world-class vineyards, national parks, hip bars and restaurants, and unique wildlife. South Australia's capital city is filled with many surprises and is waiting to be discovered.

Where should you visit in Adelaide?

Explore a collection of hip and trendy bars
© Kate Bowman
Soak the the laid-back vibes by the beach
© Mark Elbourne

Sample trips

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Fun things to do

There is no shortage of things to do and see in the cosmopolitan coastal city of Adelaide. Enjoy a great assortment of events, local markets, exhibitions, cultural activities, parks, attractions, and beaches. Known as the city of churches, discover many beautiful churches and important landmarks such as the Heritage-listed Port Adelaide building.

Step back in time

The Adelaide Gaol is filled with historical value and is one of the oldest remaining colonial buildings in the city. Featuring unique architecture, the Adelaide Gaol is definitely a fascinating attraction to visit. Over 147 years old, the goal housed some of the state's most dangerous criminals.

Do you seek culture?

Take a wander along the North Terrace, Adelaide's premier cultural boulevard. Here, you can find attractions such as the Government House, the State Library of South Australia, the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australian Museum, and the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Adelaide Fringe is one of Australia's largest arts events and is held annually.

WOMADelaide is held annually and definitely worth a visit!
© Meaghan Coles
Experience an eco-caddy through the city
© South Australian Tourism Commission

"How lucky are we that we have been able to experience such a beautiful trip with TravelEssence twice. Everything is taken care of down to the last detail and communication is smooth and pleasant."

The Tonen family, TravelEssence clients

Activities

Enjoy authentic once-in-a-lifetime experiences with the locals. Let your travel specialist know your interests and they will advise what are the best activities for you. There are small-group activities available, ranging from easy-going to adventurous, or private tours for a more intimate experience. We can take care of every detail, so you just have to show up and enjoy an experience to look back on for years to come.

Shopping & markets

Adelaide is a great place to go shopping with a large assortment of unique boutique stores, shopping malls, and heritage arcades. Adelaide Central Market started back in 1869 and is still a thriving food and culture mecca. With over 70 traders, Adelaide Central Market is one of the largest undercover fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere.

Shop in the heart of the city

Rundle Mall is the heart of Adelaide's shopping, dining, and entertainment precinct. Adelaide’s famous pedestrian-only shopping hub has a variety of global brands, designer wear, attractions, and is the centrepiece of the CBD.

Experience Adelaide's lifestyle

Rundle Street is located in the East End District and oozes sophistication, style, and historical charm. Here, you can find cutting-edge-fashion stores, wine bars, alfresco dining, homewares, funky gifts, and much more.

Adelaide is filled with boutique stores
© Tourism Australia
A visit to the Adelaide Central Market is a must-do!
Unique encounter with dolphins | New Zealand wildlife

Would you like to learn more about Adelaide?

Join one of our live and informative presentations, hosted by one of our travel specialists. And find out how to travel to Australia in a uniquely local way. There are also plenty of opportunities to ask questions!

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Food and wine scene

South Australia is a foodie and wine lovers haven with exquisite fresh local produce and locally grown wine on offer. Take a self-guided tour in and around Adelaide and sample the local flavours. From the fruitful vineyards in Barossa Valley and the wine regions surrounding McLaren Vale, the town of Hahndorf, and Adelaide Hills. There is a culinary delight around every corner that you must try! For the wine connoisseur, be sure to stop by the National Wine Centre. Here, you can find a unique collection of Australian wine.

Enjoy the great outdoors and alfresco dining
© Duy Dash
Pop by the local cafes and enjoy the coffee culture
© @paulpayasalad

Beaches

With over 20 beaches to explore, Adelaide is the perfect place to soak up the Aussie beach lifestyle. For one of the most beautiful beaches near Adelaide, go to Maslin Beach. Glenelg is a must-visit and Henley Beach is a cosmopolitan seaside paradise. Spend your days soaking up the Aussie sunshine at a local beach house. Some other beaches to visit are North Haven Beach, Largs Bay Beach, Semaphore Beach, Tennyson Beach, Grange Beach, and West Beach. If you like to snorkel, go to Port Noarlunga!

Enjoy all that Glenelg Beach has to offer
© Ryan Formosa Photography
Soak up the sunshine at a beach house
© Jayden Threadgold

Family-friendly

The city of Adelaide is an ideal destination for families with plenty of exciting things to do and see to keep the kids entertained. The Cleland Conservation Park offers a panoramic view of the city, and you can have a close encounter with emu, koalas, and other native wildlife at the Cleland Wildlife Park. Take a wander around the Adelaide Botanic Garden or hop on board a paddleboat on the River Torrens.

From strawberry picking to encounters with unique wildlife

Located in Adelaide Hills is Beerenberg Strawberry Farm. A popular attraction and an ideal day trip with the kids between November and April. Spend the afternoon picking fresh strawberries and purchasing local goods from the store. Or if you would prefer to have a close encounter with Australian wildlife, visit Australia’s largest open-range zoo, Monarto Zoo. Interact with the variety of animals and birds at the Glen Forest Tourist Park or visit the Adelaide Zoo.

Visit South Australia and take a trip to Adelaide Zoo
© Adrian Mann
Hand-feeding kangaroos is a must-do in South Australia!

Parks & nature

With over 300 parks and reserves in South Australia and 29 parks in the city of Adelaide, there are plenty of opportunities to soak up the outdoors and enjoy Australian wildlife. Pack a picnic and explore the gardens of Carrick Hill or discover Japanese Gardens, the Himeji Gardens! Morialta Conservation park offers a variety of walking trails.

If you are a sports fan, Adelaide Oval is one of the most spectacular sporting grounds in the world. Here, you can watch a game of cricket or AFL (Australian Football League).

Victoria Square, also known as Tarntanyangga is a public square in the centre of the city. Home to many prestigious buildings and green areas, you can admire the Queen Victoria Statue, the Three Rivers Fountain, and of course meet the friendly locals.

Mount Lofty is located approximately 15 kilometres east of Adelaide. Discover a majestic peak in Cleland National Park and Adelaide Hills. The Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty summit hike is great if you would like to conquer this part of South Australia.

Conquer the Roof Climb at Adelaide Oval
© South Australian Tourism Commission
Visit the fruitful vines of Adelaide Hills

Where to stay

Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our large collection of hand-selected accommodations located in Adelaide and beyond.

A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself

Whether you prefer an apartment with ocean views, a self-contained cabin with the beach at your doorstep or a luxury apartment in the heart of the CBD. Your travel specialist will match you up with accommodation that suits your wants and needs.

Feel at home on your Australian holiday
Bathroom with a view
Soak up the amazing views from you tub!

Museums & art galleries

Would you like to uncover the fascinating history of South Australia? Learn about the oldest culture in the world at the Aboriginal-owned and managed multi-arts centre, the Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute. Or visit Port Adelaide, which is home to the National Railway Museum and the South Australian Maritime Museum. Discover the latest exhibition at the South Australian Museum or delve into the fascinating Migration Museum.

The Art Gallery of South Australia is a must-visit for art lovers
Adelaide is home to an eclectic range of art galleries and attractions
© Tourism Australia

Surrounding areas

Together with a small group and a local guide, uncover the local treasures that surround Adelaide. From the astounding natural beauty that awaits you on Kangaroo Island to the unique wildlife in Coorong. There are plenty of self-drive day trips to embark on as well. Discover a seafood haven that features pink lakes, Eyre Peninsula, or visit the beaches and wineries of Fleurieu. There are so many beautiful places to visit outside of the city of Adelaide in South Australia, something for every visitor.

The pink and blue waters of Lake MacDonnell
Discover the natural beauty of Eyre Peninsula and Lake Macdonnell
© Jaxon Foale
Snorkeling around Kangaroo Island | Australia active holiday
Swim with dolphins at Kangaroo Island

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Why book with us?

  • A well-designed holiday, just for you
  • Small-scale accommodations run by friendly local hosts
  • Carefully recommended activities based on your interests
  • A travel tempo and driving distances that match your needs
  • Ingrained sustainability in all facets of your holiday
  • 30 years of experience in travel to Australia

Let's design your holiday together

We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped out itinerary from us - but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied. We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.

Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.