Adelaide: Capital city of South Australia

Adelaide Airport Directory (ADL)
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Adelaide is a city buzzing with excitement, making it the ideal starting point for an Australian holiday. A vibrant place that has so much to offer, including hidden gems waiting to be discovered, Adelaide's charm lies in its accessibility. You can reach the city centre from the airport in just 20 minutes. Within the same time frame, you can also enjoy sandy beaches, explore scenic hills, and indulge in dining experiences among picturesque vineyards. This is why the city is even famed as the ‘20-minute city’.

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted to find tranquil green spaces in the city. From historic parklands to riverside trails lined with eucalyptus trees, there's plenty to explore and enjoy. Sports fans will also find Adelaide appealing, with opportunities to watch golf tournaments, Aussie Rules games, and other global sporting events at venues like the Adelaide Oval. 

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Best time to visit: The best time to visit Adelaide is from March to May and September through November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and temperatures range from the 10 to 27 degree Celsius, and rain is uncommon. The shoulder season sees fewer crowds and lower prices than the peak summer season, which aligns with the summer holidays and Adelaide's festival season.

March is a busy and popular time in Adelaide due to festivals like the Adelaide Festival and WOMADelaide. And, September to November has major events like the Feast Festival and the OzAsia Festival.

How to reach?

The city has easy access to different modes of transport. Here are some of the options in the city:

By air: Flights are the quickest way to reach Adelaide with the nearest airport being the Adelaide Airport (ADL), located just 11 km from the city centre. Flights from India take between 12 to 31 hours, depending on layovers. Flights from India to Adelaide take between 12 to 31 hours, depending on layovers.

By train: For budget travellers, taking the train is a great way to reach Adelaide from other Australian cities. The Overland train journey from Melbourne to Adelaide offers scenic views and includes meals, taking just over 10 hours. Another option is the longer train journey from Sydney to Adelaide, operated by Great Southern Rail, which arrives at Adelaide Parklands station in 24 hours and 45 minutes. 

By bus: Coaches arrive daily at Adelaide's Central Bus Station from interstate capital cities and regional towns in South Australia. Located near the Adelaide Central Market on Franklin Street, the station is easily accessible. Operating from 6:00 am to 9:30 pm every day, it serves buses travelling to regional and interstate destinations.

Getting around/local transport: Adelaide Metro manages the city's public transport system, offering travel options across Adelaide and its greater metropolitan area. Adelaide Metro provides free public transport in the city and North Adelaide. The free City Connector bus is a great way to explore popular attractions, shopping areas, dining spots, educational institutions, and other places in the city. All buses are wheelchair and pram accessible.

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Places to visit

Exploring a new city can be exciting but overwhelming. So, to help you make the most of your time in Adelaide, here's a curated list of popular destinations in the city:

  • Mount Lofty: Mount Lofty in Adelaide is perfect for adventure seekers. It offers a variety of activities like biking and hiking, and if you prefer a more relaxed experience, a leisurely stroll through the picturesque surroundings is equally delightful. Once you reach the top, you'll be amazed by the stunning views. The area is also home to diverse wildlife and plant species, which offers nature enthusiasts a chance to explore the region's natural beauty. Additonally, there's also a gift and coffee shop, so you can pick up souvenirs and satisfy your caffeine craving while enjoying the scenery.
  • Adelaide Botanical Garden: The Adelaide Botanical Garden covers 50 hectares and features meticulously landscaped gardens, impressive architecture, and historic buildings. It showcases diverse plant collections across 11 gardens, including the Dahlia Garden, Cactus and Succulent Garden, and International Rose Garden. Visitors can also explore the tranquil Garden of Health, the serene First Creek Wetland, and the Australian Forest. Entry to the garden is free, making it a budget-friendly attraction. Additionally, there are dining options available for visitors to enjoy amidst the scenic surroundings.
  • Himeji Garden: Himeji Garden is a serene Japanese-style garden designed by renowned landscape designer Yoshitaka Kumada. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, perfect for a relaxing picnic. Divided into two traditional areas, the garden features a kare sensui area with a rock garden and a sensui area with lakes and mountains. You can admire beautiful trees, waterfalls, and ponds in a natural setting. 
  • Victoria Square: Adelaide's Victoria Square, also known as Tarntanyangga, is the city's largest square, named after Princess Victoria. It features iconic structures like the Statue of Queen Victoria, the Three Rivers Fountain, and Statue of Charles Kingston. The square is surrounded by notable buildings such as the General Post Office, former Treasury building, and Supreme Court of South Australia.
  • Adelaide Oval: Adelaide Oval is a renowned sports ground in Adelaide, that is famous for cricket and football matches. Over its 140-year-old history, it has also hosted tennis, rugby, and soccer events, as well as concerts by artists like The Rolling Stones and Adele. Visitors can take a stadium tour to learn about its history, behind-the-scenes stories, and match day preparations. For a unique experience, stay at the Oval Hotel, offering tranquil views of the surrounding parklands.
  • Carrick Hill: Carrick Hill, a historic property in Adelaide, was once the residence of Sir Edward Hayward. It features a vast collection of antiques, drawings, sculptures, and paintings spanning 500 years. Built in 1939, it resembles an English Manor and retains most of its original contents. The garden, designed as an English country park, hosts themed art exhibitions regularly.

Places to eat

If you're craving something sweet or seeking a restaurant that blends fine dining with a contemporary twist, Adelaide's array of eateries have you covered.

  • Parwana: This restaurant reflects the ethnic diversity which makes up modern Adelaide. Their food is packed with flavours, and the walls of this eatery are surrounded by vintage pictures of owners and their families. The standout items from the menu are the fried dumplings stuffed with chives and the eggplant curry.
  • Hey Jupiter: This place offers a perfect blend of traditional and innovative dishes, making it popular among both older diners seeking a classic brasserie experience or a bite before work. The menu is extensive, featuring items like croissants, croque monsieur, and cassoulet in the morning, as well as foie gras, steak frites, and crepes Suzette. 
  • Rozelle’s: Sit on the balcony shaded by large, striped umbrellas and enjoy picturesque views of the Adelaide foothills while indulging in Italian share plates. Begin with a refreshing Spritz, followed by a variety of antipasti such as rosemary focaccia, anchovy toast, and wood-roasted cauliflower. Don't miss out on the pizzas, as there are four wood-fired options to share with your group.
  • Osteria Oggi: Oggi offers a stylish, modern Australian twist on Italian cuisine, making it a popular dining spot in Adelaide. The restaurant's interior is a standout, setting a new standard for Adelaide's dining scene since its opening in 2015. Inspired by the light and openness of an Italian piazza, the award-winning design is both elegant and contemporary.

Shopping places

  • Adelaide’s Central Market: Adelaide Central Market is a top attraction in South Australia, drawing food enthusiasts to its bustling stalls housed in a charming redbrick building. Established in 1869, the market now features over 70 stalls offering a diverse range of artisan and multicultural produce. You can find everything from fresh vegetables, fruits, seafood, and meats to healthy foods and small goods.
  • Queen Street: Lined with a mix of high-end boutiques, international brands, and local designers, Queen Street offers a diverse shopping experience for visitors and locals alike. From fashion and accessories to electronics and souvenirs, Queen Street has something for everyone. The street is also home to several department stores, making it a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs. Apart from shopping, Queen Street is also a great place to soak in the city's atmosphere. Lively street performers, bustling cafes, and historic buildings add to the charm of this iconic street.
  • East End: The East End of Adelaide is known for its stylish and inclusive vibe, supporting small businesses and offering a cool cafe culture. With over 30 boutiques, you can find local labels, international brands, and vintage shops for unique finds. Coffee lovers will delight in the 20+ coffee shops offering top-notch barista-made beverages. For a special dining experience, visit the former Adelaide Fruit and Produce Exchange, now home to fine dining restaurants.
  • The Parade: The Parade in Norwood is one of the best shopping destinations for suburban shopping. The market involved 250 shops, cafes and a lively restaurant scene. Explore a wide array of fashion, food, and boutique shops, along with diverse dining and entertainment choices.

Where to stay?

  • Kings Corner: Indulge in this charming sandstone villa, renovated to accommodate up to eight guests. It is located in Unley Park, facing Heywood Park, and a short walk to King William Road. Enjoy morning coffee in the beautifully landscaped private gardens with outdoor entertaining space. Admire the original features with contemporary additions, making this house truly exquisite.
  • Vibe Hotel: This is a contemporary hotel located in the heart of Adelaide's vibrant city centre. The hotel offers modern and stylish accommodations, perfect for both leisure and business travellers. Rooms are well-appointed and feature amenities such as flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and tea/coffee-making facilities. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and apartments. The hotel also offers a range of facilities to enhance guests' stay, including a fitness centre, sauna, and rooftop pool with stunning city views.
  • Hilton Adelaide: Hilton Adelaide is a luxurious 5-star hotel offering a range of upscale accommodations, dining options, and amenities, making it a popular choice for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel boasts a range of dining options, including the award-winning Coal Cellar + Grill, which offers a menu of South Australian produce.
  • Norwood Retreat: Discover the magic of Norwood Retreat, an oasis with contemporary decor and spacious areas overlooking the patio. It is perfect for hosting small or private events. Unwind in this fully equipped home, which is ideal for families or friends looking for a comfortable stay.

More reasons to visit

  • Kangaroo Island: Kangaroo Island is home to kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, platypus, echidnas, emus, and 250 bird species. Seal Bay offers close-ups of fur seals and sea lions, while fairy penguins can be seen at Penneshaw. Accessible by a 30-minute flight from Adelaide or a 50-minute ferry ride from Cape Jervis, it's an easy getaway. Stay at the Seafront Resort for a convenient waterside retreat.
  • Beaches: Adelaide's beaches are renowned for their accessibility and variety. Glenelg, a family favourite, is not only close to town but also the most popular. Brighton offers a relaxed vibe with nearby cafes and restaurants, while Henley is a seafood-lover's paradise. 
  • South Australian Museum: The South Australian Museum, located in Adelaide, showcases cultural artefacts and natural history. It has a large collection of Australian Aboriginal objects and is known for conducting scientific research. The museum has five floors and over 4 million specimens, including collections on humanities, biology, and polar exploration. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in Australia's history and natural wonders.
  • Adelaide Zoo: It houses over 2,500 animals from 250 species. Spread across 8 hectares of botanical gardens, the zoo features a variety of exotic and native mammals, reptiles, birds, and fish. Visitors can observe Tasmanian devils, Australian sea lions, giant pandas, and golden lion tamarins, among other fascinating creatures. As the second largest zoo in Australia, Adelaide Zoo is not just a place of natural wonder but also a significant reflection of Australia's social history and heritage.

Visa and Immigration

A visitor Australia visa lets you visit Australia for a short period, usually one year or less. It's a temporary visa and is valid for a specific time only. This tourist visa subclass 600 allows you to travel to Australia for various reasons like visiting family, conducting business activities, and seeking medical treatment. Two eligibility criteria for this visa are a valid passport from an eligible country and sufficient funds to sustain oneself in Australia.

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