This city packs in more than a short trip can cover. We narrow down where to eat, play and stay to make the most of it
Blending a vibrant food scene, world-famous festivals and stunning city beaches, Adelaide shines in every season. Whether you are a passionate foodie chasing exceptional flavours or an urban adventurer seeking open-air thrills, our curated guide reveals the city’s best places to eat, play and stay.
Where to eat
An oldie but a goodie
Ranked as the #3 market in the world, Adelaide Central Market has been serving the city since 1869. Visit Tuesday to Saturday and be dazzled by the array of options. From fresh local fruit and vegetables to Algerian paella, there’s something for everyone. Unsure where to begin? A free, 50-minute self-guided audio tour shares stories about the vendors and their wares. 44–60 Gouger St; adelaidecentralmarket.com.au
A taste of the Himalayas
Diners are singing the praises of Adelaide’s first Bhutanese restaurant, Paro & Co. Situated northeast of the city, it serves favourites including ema datshi (chilli and cheese stew) and shakam datshi (an eye-catching combination of dried beef, chilli and cheese) in a modern setting. Momo dumplings span savoury and sweet, with a cherry version garnering rave reviews. 1/3 Darley Rd, Paradise; paroco.au
Produce-driven dining
Hotfoot it to Hackney, where old and new meet in a delightful juxtaposition that’s sure to impress. Set within a restored heritage hotel, Esmay takes the best of South Australian produce and showcases it in dishes that range from creative (emu pastrami donut, anyone?) to comforting (order the decadent blue cheese potatoes). 95 Hackney Rd; esmay.com.au
Head for the hills
Set within a historic 1868 church, newcomer Restaurant Aptos wows even well-travelled diners with a theatrical 16-course tasting menu. Hosting just 14 diners per session, it’s perfect for special occasions and those with deep pockets. The set menu costs A$495 / RM1,420 (drinks extra). 147 Mount Barker Rd, Stirling; restaurantaptos.com
Out and about
Only in Adelaide
Familiar with Fruchocs, fritz and frog cakes? If not, take the two-hour F Factor Adelaide Food Walking Tour for a fun look at South Australia’s quirky food culture. Meeting point at Haigh’s Chocolates, Adelaide Arcade, Grenfell St; flamboyancetours.com.au
Venture beyond the greenery
Join Bookabee Australia for a 90-minute guided walk through Adelaide’s Botanic Gardens, where an Aboriginal guide shares stories of Aboriginal peoples’ social history and shows how the gardens provide medicine, food and tools for these communities. Grange, South Australia; bookabee.com.au
Paddle power
Spend three hours paddling mangrove-lined waterways with Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tours for a rare chance to see these aquatic mammals in their own habitat, and, weather permitting, semi-submerged shipwrecks. Suitable for ages 10 and above. Angas Inlet Boat Club, Port Adelaide; dolphinsanctuarykayaktours.com.au
High and mighty
For unparalleled views over the city, sign on with RoofClimb Adelaide Oval. Be guided up and across the stadium while being regaled with tales of Adelaide’s rich history. Sports fans can catch match day tours to watch football or cricket from the world’s first rooftop stadium seats. Height restrictions apply. War Memorial Dr, North Adelaide; roofclimb.com.au
Get close to native wildlife
A lush, green oasis in the heart of the city, Adelaide Zoo is home to a dizzying collection of more than 2,400 exotic and native animals. For a truly Australian experience, book ahead to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, learn about resident koalas and meet Whitney the echidna. Frome Rd; adelaidezoo.com.au
Where to stay
Beach beauty
In the heart of Adelaide’s favourite seaside suburb, newcomer The George Glenelg is designed with relaxation in mind, with rooms that feature sumptuous beds and soothing tones. Just steps from dozens of dining options and a short 30-minute tram ride from Adelaide’s centre, guests are never far from the action. Colley Terrace, Glenelg; georgeglenelg.com.au
Stamped with class
Set within the city’s heritage-listed General Post Office, the Adelaide Marriott is centrally located near myriad attractions. But with quality on-site dining, an indoor pool and curated art collections throughout the property, you may find it difficult to drag yourself away from the hotel. 141 King William St; marriott.com
Oval oasis
Australia’s only stadium stay, Oval Hotel isn’t just for sports fans. Facing outward into the surrounding gardens, it’s a destination in its own right, with sleek rooms, fabulous food and impeccable service earning rave reviews. King William Rd, North Adelaide; ovalhotel.com.au
