Perfect 3 Day Adelaide Itinerary For First Time Visitors!

PLANNING A TRIP TO ADELAIDE? HERE’S A PERFECT 3 DAY ADELAIDE ITINERARY FOR YOU!

Adelaide might not get the same spotlight as Melbourne or Sydney, but in our opinion, it’s one of the most underrated travel destinations in Australia! We visited recently in January 2025 and think a 3-4 day trip is ideal to explore the city’s highlights.

Get ready for ocean sunsets, world-class wine tasting, a chance to come face-to-face with lions at South Australia’s largest safari park where you are the one in a cage, and even a day trip to Kangaroo Island where you can swim with seals, spot kangaroos in the wild, and watch the picture-perfect night sky!

This 3-day Adelaide itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors. We’ll walk you through the must-see attractions, where to stay, the best things to do, and plenty of personal recommendations along the way.

Adelaide~ The Capital of South Australia

Adelaide is South Australia’s capital and is home to around 1.4 million people, which is nearly the state’s population. It’s known as a 20-minute city, as it’s very interconnected by FREE public transport!

The city sits on the traditional lands of the Kaurna (pronounced Garna) people, and their stories and culture are still very much alive today.

Every year, the city hosts the world’s second-largest fringe festival, turning the city into a playground of art, comedy, and performance. It’s no wonder this place has earned a reputation as one of the most culturally vibrant cities in Australia.

Often called the City of Churches, Adelaide is also known for its early embrace of religious freedom, with churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples. And if you love wine, you’re in luck: it’s one of the Great Wine Capitals of the World, surrounded by 18 incredible wine regions, including Barossa, Clare Valley, and McLaren Vale.

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3-Day Adelaide Itinerary On A Map!

Here’s our 3-day Adelaide itinerary mapped out to make your planning super easy! You’ll find all the spots we visited, from attractions to food recommendations. You can click on each pin to see the name and details of the place, and save the map to your Google account by clicking on the star next to the title of the map.

Day One of 3-Day Adelaide Itinerary: Exploring the City

Let’s kickstart our 3-Day Adelaide itinerary with your first day and explore the charm of the city!

If you choose to book these awesome tours (which last about two hours), enjoy lunch, then wrap up your day with either the Adelaide Oval RoofClimb or a scenic drive to Mount Osmond Lookout, as by this point, you’ll have seen most of the city’s highlights. If not, this is how we recommend spending your day:

Morning: Breakfast at Central Market

Located right in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD, the Adelaide Central Market is rated as one of the best fresh produce markets in Australia! What could be better than starting your morning wandering through more than 70 stalls, with the aroma of freshly cooked delicacies from all corners of the globe filling the air?

From sweet Turkish Delight and crispy Red Falafel to freshly rolled Sun Mi Sushi, there’s food from every corner, and we recommend sampling as much as your appetite allows! We really enjoyed mushrooms at Mushroom Man and definitely recommend sharing a plate of Lucia’s gnocchi (one large serve is perfect for two).

Rundle Mall

As you exit Central Market and head across North Terrace, you’ll find yourself at Rundle Mall, South Australia’s busiest and most popular destination. This open-air, pedestrian-friendly street is lined with big-name retailers, boutiques, and cafés, making it a go-to stop in the city.

Don’t miss the famous bronze pig sculptures: Horatio, Oliver, Truffles, and Augusta, which have become quirky mascots of the mall. You’ll also spot the towering silver sculpture known as “The Spheres” or, as the locals call them, “The Mall’s Balls.”

Adelaide Botanic Gardens

Next up in your first day of the Adelaide itinerary is exploring the massive 50 hectares of gardens, packed with plants from Australia and all over the world. If you’re staying at the Holiday Inn Express or any other hotel in the CBD, you can easily get here on foot, or hop on a tram!

The Botanic Gardens are home to over 10 beautifully curated individual gardens, and each one feels like a little world of its own. Make sure you don’t miss the stunning Palm House, the First Creek Wetland, the vibrant Amazon Waterlily Pavilion, and the fascinating Museum of Economic Botany!

Afternoon: Lunch at Hey Jupiter

Nothing feels better than digging into some wholesome food after a productive morning of sightseeing the best of Adelaide (and it’s far from over!). We highly recommend lunch at Hey Jupiter if you’re in the mood for chic French brasserie vibes and a menu that ranges from foie gras to crêpes Suzette and hearty cassoulet.

If you’re craving something else, Aurora (for incredible Italian) and Parwana Afghan Kitchen (for soul-warming Afghan dishes) are both right up there on our list, too!

Art Gallery of South Australia

You simply can’t visit Adelaide and not stop by the Art Gallery of South Australia! It’s open from 10 am to 5 pm daily, and until 9 pm on Fridays. The gallery houses almost 47,000 works of art and design, including pieces by Aboriginal and South Australian artists, contemporary artworks, and collections from Europe and Asia.

What you’ll see here are displays that span thousands of years of human history and creativity. One moment you’re admiring ancient works, and the next, you’re drawn into bold modern pieces that challenge and inspire!

Adelaide Oval

If you’re a sports fan, don’t miss one of the world’s most iconic sporting venues: Adelaide Oval! For sports enthusiasts, the Adelaide Oval offers an unforgettable experience. You can either climb to the roof for stunning views or book a guided tour to learn about its rich history and operations.

Surrounded by the River Torrens, it’s easy to reach by tram, bus, or even a short walk from the Art Gallery. The Oval has hosted numerous events, including cricket matches, Australian Rules Football games, concerts, and more.

Evening: Mount Osmond Lookout

If you choose to do only one of the earlier activities, we recommend heading to Mount Osmond Lookout for sunset, for some of the most stunning views we found in Adelaide. Mount Osmond is a small suburb in the Adelaide Hills, located about 5 km southeast of the city centre.

South Australia is one of the few places in the country where you can watch the sun set over the ocean. From this Mount Osmond Lookout point, you’ll see the sun dip below the horizon with the city skyline in the foreground, a blend of urban jungle and coastal beauty.

Dinner

We recommend dining at Osteria Oggi, where you can try their exceptional seafood and Italian dishes, all made with fresh ingredients and local flavour. If you’re interested in exploring Adelaide’s nightlife afterward, stop by one of the city’s many great bars. We recommend Hains & Co for its nautical-themed interior and impressive gin selection.

Do Some Stargazing in the Best of SA!

If you still have some energy left, end your day with a sky full of stars! We were really looking forward to this experience, but unfortunately, we didn’t book tickets in time and couldn’t secure a spot. So, definitely consider booking early! The River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve is Australia’s first internationally recognized dark sky reserve.

Here, you can witness the Milky Way in all its spectacular detail, surrounded by the pristine bushland of Swan Reach Conservation Park. Located just 90 minutes northeast of Adelaide in South Australia’s Murraylands region, the reserve offers an unforgettable night-sky experience. You can even camp at one of their RV-friendly campsites and enjoy some of the clearest night skies in the world.

Day 2 of Adelaide Itinerary: Wine Tasting!

After a full day of sightseeing around Adelaide, it’s time to discover why this city is at the heart of South Australia’s world-class wine scene.

Barossa Valley is where sprawling vineyards meet rich history, gourmet produce, and iconic cellar doors.

Morning: Breakfast at Exchange Coffee

Start Day 2 of your Adelaide itinerary with a powerful breakfast! We recommend grabbing a freshly brewed filter coffee at Exchange Coffee or enjoying a classic eggs Benedict or smashed avo toast at Penny University.

Most wineries open between 10–11 am and close around 4–5 pm, so it’s best to get an early start. We opted to self-drive; however, if you’d rather not drive, joining a tour is a great stress-free option.

The Barossa Premium Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch is a fantastic full-day guided experience. It runs for about 8 hours, includes hotel pickups from Adelaide CBD and Glenelg, and is led by local wine experts.

🚘Getting There

The Barossa is just an hour’s drive by car from Adelaide via the Northern Expressway for a direct route to Tanunda or Greenock. For a scenic route, drive through Chain of Ponds to Williamstown. Alternatively, LinkSA runs daily buses via Gawler Railway Station.

Wine Tasting at One of Barossa’s Many Wineries

Next up is to choose between the many wineries present there, we recommend wine tasting at Seppeltsfield, a historic estate dating back to the 1850s! It’s the only winery in the world to release a 100-year-old single vintage Tawny every year, with its Centennial Collection dating as far back as 1878. You can even sample a wine from a year that holds personal significance, maybe the year you were born or got married.

Don’t miss the iconic palm tree-lined road leading up to the estate, it’s one of the most photographed spots in the Barossa and worth a stop on its own.

Other Things to Do in Barossa Valley:

• Hot Air Ballooning: Soar above the vineyards at sunrise with Barossa Balloon Adventures, then come back down to a champagne breakfast — dreamy!
• Festivals & Markets: Time your visit for the Barossa Vintage Festival (a five-day feast of culture and cuisine), or browse local produce and treats every Saturday at the Barossa Farmers Market in Angaston.

Afternoon: Lunch at St Hugo

After experiencing the rich flavours of the region’s finest wines, it’s time for lunch, and in our opinion, there’s no better place than St Hugo. Located in Rowland Flat, this iconic venue is at the heart of Barossa hospitality. With roaring fireplaces, a leafy garden setting, and a seasonal menu that champions local produce, St Hugo strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and refined dining.

Sunset at Glenelg Beach:

On your way back to Adelaide, make a stop at Glenelg Beach for what might be the most stunning sunset of your life. Watching the sun melt into the ocean is a magical way to wrap up Day 2 of your Adelaide adventure.

Evening: Dinner at Casablaba

Located at 12 Leigh Street, Casablabla is a lively and stylish spot perfect for ending your day. Sip on a signature cocktail in one hand and enjoy garlic bread or creamy mashed potatoes in the other. The menu features hearty, globally inspired dishes in a warm, atmospheric setting!

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Day 3 of Adelaide Itinerary: Adventure at Monarto Safari Park!

Morning: Breakfast at Pixie and the Hawk

Start your day with what might just be the best French toast in Adelaide. Pixie and the Hawk is a perfect classic + creative brunch option, but just as good for breakfast. If you’re travelling with kids, the Little Sweetie (pina colada, coconut yoghurt, and strawberry sauce) is a fun little treat!

Monarto Safari Park

Spend the day exploring South Australia’s largest safari park! Monarto Safari Park is a non-government conservation charity, home to a diverse range of wildlife, from majestic giraffes to adorable meerkats.

Here are the ways to get there:

1. By Car: From Adelaide, take the Monarto exit off the South Eastern Freeway and follow signs onto the Princes Highway. It takes about 60 minutes (70km) from the city. If you’re coming from the east (Murray Bridge), it’s just a 15-minute drive (14km) via Monarto Road.

2. By Bus (LinkSA): If you’re not driving, LinkSA offers direct bus services from the Adelaide Central Bus Station to Monarto Safari Park:

• Monday to Friday: Morning departure from Adelaide with a return trip in the afternoon, giving you a full day at the park.
• From Murray Bridge: Buses also connect directly to the park.
• More flexibility: You can take an Adelaide Metro bus to Mount Barker, then connect with a LinkSA service to the park. These connecting services run throughout the week, with some weekend options as well.

Try out these experiences at the Safari park, or book a safari tour to get up close to all your favorite animals!

• Lions 360 Experience: Step into a reinforced viewing cage as lions prowl around and even above you! It’s a thrilling encounter where you can feed them with tongs for a truly unforgettable close-up. Refer to our full guide to the Lions 360 Experience!
• Land of the Lemurs: Walk through an immersive lemur habitat and watch these curious primates leap and explore around you.
• Giraffe Safari: Hand-feed towering giraffes in a picturesque open savannah setting. It’s an experience that’s as serene as it is exciting.
• A Devlish Native Experience: See some of Australia’s most endangered native animals in a special behind-the-scenes area, normally off-limits to the public.

Lunch!

We recommend bringing your own lunch to the park, as the food at The Café isn’t particularly impressive. However, if you haven’t bought food along, you might want to sample some of the standard options to see if they suit your taste!

Strawberry Picking!

As you come back to the city, we recommend trying Strawberry picking in Beerenberg Farm in Hahndorf! It is a quintessential Adelaide experience. Just a 30-minute drive from the CBD, this family-owned farm has been cultivating strawberries since 1967 and welcomes visitors to pick their own fruit during the season, which typically runs from November to April.

Entry to the strawberry fields is $5 per person, with free admission for children under 12. You pay for the strawberries you pick by weight, at $12.50 per kilogram. The farm shop offers a range of jams, sauces, and condiments, and the on-site café serves dishes featuring their own produce.

The German Village Kandle Haus

After strawberry picking at Beerenberg, head over to the nearby village of Hahndorf, where old-world charm meets artisan craftsmanship.

One lovely stop is the German Village Kandle Haus, a sister store to the German Village Shop, known for its handcrafted soy candles. Inspired by traditional German scents like Gingerbread, Pear Schnapps, and Edelweiss, each candle is hand-poured right in the heart of Hahndorf. Their themed collections, like the Schwarzwald and the Bavarian Alps, provide a fragrant journey through Germany’s landscapes.

You can also explore their Essential Oil range or try something unique like the Schwarz Kerze, a black candle infused with sage and citrus. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a thoughtful souvenir or gift. From here, take a slow stroll through Hahndorf’s leafy streets, lined with German bakeries, boutiques, and cozy pubs.

Evening: Dinner at The Moseley

After a day of adventure, head to The Moseley for a relaxed dinner. This popular beachfront restaurant offers a great selection of meals, along with stunning ocean views, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Option 2: A Day Trip to Kangaroo Island

If you wish to extend the itinerary for a 4/5 day trip, then we highly recommend taking a day trip to Kangaroo Island!

The most flexible way to get there is by driving from Adelaide to Cape Jervis (just under 2 hours) and then hopping on the SeaLink ferry, which takes about 45 minutes and runs several times daily. The charges for boarding a car are incredibly expensive, though!

If you’re traveling without a car, LinkSA has coach transfers from Adelaide to the ferry terminal, and you can board the ferry as a walk-on passenger, which is much more affordable. Once you arrive, you can rent a car in Penneshaw, use local shuttles connecting key spots like American River and Kingscote, or simply join a guided tour for a hassle-free day out.

Things to do in Kangaroo Island:

• Walk among wild sea lions at Seal Bay: This one feels a bit surreal, watching sea lions lazing around on the sand just metres away from you. At Seal Bay, there’s no enclosure or feeding show, just a beautiful boardwalk that winds down to the beach where these animals have made their home for thousands of years. You can book a guided tour if you want the story behind the colony, but even a short stroll down the platform is worth it.

• Catch the little penguins waddling home in Penneshaw: If you’re staying in Penneshaw, don’t miss the evening penguin walk. Around dusk, the world’s tiniest penguins start shuffling out of the ocean and back to their nests. It’s quiet, gentle, and so lovely to watch. Bring a jacket and go with a guide to keep it low-impact and learn a bit about their routine.

• Slow down at Emu Bay Lavender Farm: This place is such a sweet break between beach days and hikes. Rows of purple stretch out in every direction, and the café does an amazing lavender scone with jam. You can pick up handmade goodies while you’re here, like lavender teas, soaps, or even a calming sleep spray for the trip home.

• Swim with wild dolphins off the coast: Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures runs small group tours where you can snorkel with dolphins. Expect a half-day out on the water with some stunning coastline.

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Best Things to Do in Adelaide

We’ve included a few things to do in Adelaide below, which are not a part of our 3-Day Adelaide itinerary!

1. Visit the Adelaide Zoo

Meet Australia’s only Giant Pandas, watch wallabies bouncing around, feel your heart race as you catch a glimpse of Sumatran Tigers and Komodo Dragons, and spot everything from tiny insects to singing monkeys! You can even meet the animal keepers and get incredible behind-the-scenes insights during the daily Keeper Talks.

Adelaide Zoo is a fantastic alternative to the Monarto Safari Park experience. That said, nothing quite beats the thrill of Monarto, where the wild truly runs free!

2. Visit MOD.

MOD. at the University of South Australia is a bold, futuristic museum that blends science, technology, and creativity in interactive ways. It features ever-changing exhibitions that explore how cutting-edge research is shaping the future.

It’s also home to Australia’s first Science on a Sphere, a room-sized globe surrounded by touchscreens that brings planetary data to life. Best of all, MOD. is completely free to visit!

3. Check out the South Australian Museum

The South Australian Museum is a five-floor treasure trove of natural history and culture, featuring everything from opalised fossils and megafauna to the world’s largest collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural material.

With rotating exhibitions like the Waterhouse Natural History Art Prize, the Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year, and exciting summer blockbusters, there’s always something new to see.

4. Try the Hallett Cove Boardwalk

If you’re craving coastal views without heading too far from the city, the Hallett Cove Boardwalk is one of the best short walks near Adelaide. Stretching five kilometres along the rugged South Australian coast, this elevated trail forms part of the Marion Coastal Walking Trail and offers uninterrupted views of the ocean, dramatic cliffs, and unique geological formations.

Expect a fair bit of cardio – the boardwalk weaves through several gullies and includes plenty of stairs, but the scenery makes every step worth it. It’s an ideal choice for a breezy hike with sea air and no muddy bush tracks.

5. Tour the Original Haigh’s Chocolate Factory

Experience the rich heritage of Australia’s oldest family-owned chocolate maker at Haigh’s Chocolates Visitor Centre in Parkside, Adelaide. Established in 1915, Haigh’s have free guided tours where they explain the company’s storied history, observe skilled confectioners crafting chocolates by hand, and enjoy complimentary tastings.

6. See Mount Lofty Botanic Garden

Overlooking the scenic Piccadilly Valley, Mount Lofty Botanic Garden is a 97-hectare wonderland of cool-climate plants nestled in the Adelaide Hills. It is known for its lush gullies and seasonal beauty.

The garden dazzles with blooms of magnolias, rhododendrons, and camellias in spring, fiery foliage in autumn, misty Northern Hemisphere vibes in winter, and cool retreats like Fern Gully in summer. We highly recommend planning a picnic here!

9. Seek Thrill at West Beach Adventure Park

West Beach Adventure is home to Australia’s largest aerial challenge course, taking you up to 28 meters in the air across five thrilling levels. From sky-high tennis and floating eskies to mid-air boats and a BMX bike, it’s a wild, adrenaline-packed playground in the sky. Try the ParaJump, reach the 30-meter-high crow’s nest, or brave South Australia’s largest giant swing, a 36-meter arc hitting speeds of 70 km/h, and many more expei!

9. Swim With Dolphins

Swimming with wild dolphins off Glenelg Beach is a one-of-a-kind experience I highly recommend. Temptation Sailing runs the cruise on a catamaran, giving you the chance to jump into the open ocean and swim alongside curious bottlenose and common dolphins in their natural habitat!

What makes it special is how close and playful the dolphins get, often swimming just inches away!

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Where to Stay during Your 3 Days in Adelaide

A question you might have while planning your Adelaide itinerary is: Where should I stay? I’ve listed three hotel options below, but choosing the right area is just as important.

If you want to be close to major attractions, I highly recommend staying in the CBD. However, if you’re looking to explore Adelaide’s nightlife, Hindley Street is a great pick.

• Budget: Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre – A modern and cozy hotel in the heart of the CBD, just steps from the South Australian Art Gallery and the Adelaide Convention Centre. Our stay was exceptional and included a complimentary breakfast buffet.
• Mid-Range: Crowne Plaza Adelaide – A sleek and stylish hotel with modern rooms, an outdoor infinity pool, fitness centre, and in-house dining. Located in the lively East End district, it’s close to Rundle Street’s cafes, restaurants, and boutique shopping, making it a great pick for a comfortable yet vibrant city stay
• Luxury: Hilton Adelaide – A stunning 5-star hotel with vintage interiors, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness centre. Its central location makes it ideal for couples, families, and anyone seeking a luxury stay.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Adelaide?

Adelaide has something to offer year-round, but timing your visit can make all the difference depending on what you’re after.

We highly recommend visiting during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). These seasons are the sweet spot: the weather is mild and comfortable, the streets are alive with colour, and it’s a fantastic time for festivals, markets, and long walks through the city’s many parks and vineyards.

Summer (December to February) is perfect if you’re craving beach days, but be prepared for scorching temperatures and larger crowds, especially during the busy festival months of February and March.

Winter (June to August) tends to be quieter and cooler with occasional rain, but it’s also when cosy cellar doors, wineries with fireplaces, and winter menus come into their own.

No matter when you go, Adelaide offers something memorable, just pack according to the season and you’ll be good to go.

How to Get From Adelaide Airport to the City Centre

Adelaide Airport is conveniently located just 6–7 km west of the city centre, making it easy to reach the CBD by various transport options. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best way to get there:

🚍 By Adelaide Metro Bus
Adelaide Metro’s JetBus services (routes J1 and J2) offer a direct and affordable connection from the airport to the city. Buses depart from Stop 10, located just outside the terminal. Services run approximately every 15–30 minutes from early morning until late evening, with the journey taking around 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.

Fares vary: using a metroCARD or Tap and Pay, expect to pay around $4.25 during peak times and as low as $2.40 off-peak. Single-trip MetroTickets are also available from vending machines at the airport. For schedules and fare details, visit the Adelaide Metro website.

🚗 By Rental Car
If you prefer the flexibility of driving, several major car rental companies operate directly from the airport terminal, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt. You can book in advance or arrange a rental upon arrival. This option is ideal if you’re planning to explore beyond the city. For more information, visit the Adelaide Airport car rental page.

🚖 By Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis are readily available at the designated rank just outside the terminal. Rideshare services like Uber also operate from the airport, with pickup zones clearly signposted.

🚲 By Bicycle
For the eco-conscious traveler, cycling to the city is a viable option. Adelaide Airport provides bicycle parking facilities, and the city is equipped with bike lanes and paths leading to the CBD. It’s a healthy and environmentally friendly way to start your visit.

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FAQs: 3-Day Adelaide Itinerary

Now that you have your 3-day Adelaide itinerary planned, these questions might help you gain a better understanding of the city and make the most of your trip!

1. Are Three Days in Adelaide Enough?

Three days in Adelaide are sufficient to explore the city’s major attractions and enjoy a wine tour. With this 3-day Adelaide itinerary, you’ve covered most of the key tourist spots and gained a good overview of the city. However, if you have the time and budget, we highly recommend extending your stay to at least five days. This allows you to take day trips from Adelaide or even visit the bucket-list destination of Kangaroo Island.

2. Is Adelaide Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! While Adelaide might not be as famous as Sydney or Melbourne, it offers a unique charm that’s well worth exploring. The city boasts majestic architecture, clean streets, rich culinary experiences, and a vibrant local culture. Our time in Adelaide left us with unforgettable memories, and we highly recommend planning a trip to this wonderful city.

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3-Day Adelaide Itinerary: The Wrap-Up

That’s a wrap on our 3-day Adelaide itinerary. Feel free to tailor it to your preferences, but this guide offers a well-rounded experience for first-time visitors. If you have any questions or suggestions, message us on Instagram!

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