Temptation Sailing, Adelaide, South Australia © Tourism Australia

3 days in Adelaide

From bustling laneway bars to charming white sand beaches, you’ll find good vibes, exciting experiences and exquisite cuisine are never out of reach in Adelaide.

The must-do experiences

Experience Adelaide’s vibrant food and drink scene
Swim with playful pods of dolphins
Climb the Adelaide Oval for epic city views

Day 1 : Central Adelaide

Culture, wildlife and colourful cuisine are on the agenda for your first day in Adelaide. Here’s how to explore the best of Australia’s ‘Festival City.’

Pool Deck of Crowne Plaza, Adelaide, SA © Crowne Plaza Adelaide

Where to stay in Adelaide

From luxury suites with every amenity to affordable art-filled hotels and beachside family apartments, Adelaide has accommodation to suit every taste and budget.

Read time • 4min

Day 2 : Glenelg and Henley Beach

Today, breathe in Adelaide’s fresh ocean air at the charming Glenelg and Henley beaches. Here are a few ways to spend your day on the coast.

Did you know?

Temptation Sailing is eco-certified and carbon neutral, so you can swim with the playful dolphins guilt-free.

Day 3 : North Adelaide and beyond

Spend your last day enjoying Adelaide’s natural attractions, epic cityscapes and world-class wines.

Gondola Gondola, Adelaide, South Australia © South Australian Tourism Commission

Adelaide's best restaurants

Serving everything from handmade pasta to Afghani spices, Adelaide’s best restaurants will tantalise your tastebuds from brunch to dinner.

Read time • 3min

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Adelaide from the USA?

Getting to Adelaide from the United States is easier than you think, often requiring only one layover.

Transpacific long-haul: Fly nonstop from major US gateways – like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO) or Dallas (DFW) – into east coast Australian hubs like Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL) or Brisbane (BNE).
Direct connection: From your gateway city, hop on a short domestic flight to Adelaide (ADL).

Is Adelaide a good destination for families?

Adelaide is an ideal family destination, offering family-friendly adventures, easy navigation and nearby day trips.

Family-friendly adventures: Adelaide has plenty of adventures for all ages. Get the kids outdoors at attractions like Adelaide Zoo, the Adelaide Botanic Gardens and Glenelg Beach. The Adelaide Central Market is also a fun stop for the whole family to sample local treats.
Easy navigation: Getting around Adelaide is straightforward. Many attractions are walkable, and the city has a reliable network of buses, trains and trams.
Nearby day trips: Surrounding Adelaide are day trips perfect for families. The Adelaide Hills are an easy drive; be sure to visit Cleland Wildlife Park.

Where should I stay in Adelaide?

There are a few great areas to stay in Adelaide.

City centre: For easy access to Adelaide’s top attractions, including North Terrace and the Adelaide Central Market, as well as plenty of great dining options, stay in the city centre (CBD).
Glenelg: If you’re after a more relaxed coastal escape, Glenelg offers beachfront accommodation and an easy tram ride into the city.

How do I get around Adelaide?

Getting around Adelaide is easy, with plenty of public transport, walking and driving options available. The city centre is compact, making it perfect for exploring on foot, while the tram can take you from the city centre to Glenelg Beach.

If you’re heading beyond the city to wine regions like the Adelaide Hills, hiring a car or joining a guided tour is often the most convenient option.

What's the best time of year to visit Adelaide?

Adelaide is truly a year-round destination, but when to visit depends on your weather and activity preferences.

Spring and autumn: Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer mild temperatures ideal for exploring the city, visiting the beaches, and taking a wine tour in Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale.
Summer: Adelaide's summer (December to February) delivers on the city's reputation as Australia's "Festival City." Be prepared for hot daytime temperatures.
Winter: The winter season (June to August), while the coolest time of the year, is perfect for visiting cosy wineries, exploring museums and galleries and enjoy winter festivals like Illuminate Adelaide.

Explore more nearby

Gunyah Beach Sand Dunes, Coffin Bay National Park, SA © Robert Blackburn

Trips and itineraries

9-day family road trip from Adelaide to the Eyre Peninsula

The Ghan travelling along train tracks in the outback with the bright sun in the distance, Darwin, Northern Territory © Great Southern Rail

Trips and itineraries

3 days on board The Ghan

d’Arenberg Winery, McLaren Vale, South Australia © Trent Martin Photography

Places to go

Guide to McLaren Vale