A long weekend in Adelaide

You might know of it as the ‘city of churches’, but believe us when we say there’s so much more to Adelaide than spires in the sky. It may actually surprise you to find out that Adelaide is home to Australia’s official best restaurant, hotel, wine, gin, and beach…who knew?!

This impressive swag of achievements makes Adelaide the perfect destination for a long weekend, and it’s easier than ever to get there with direct flights from Newcastle Airport four days a week thanks to Qantas.

Hop aboard on a Sunday, Monday, Wednesday or Friday, and in 2 hours and 15 minutes you’ll be in the heart of South Australia with a bustling city and famous wine region right at your fingertips. Here are some ideas for what to get up to while you’re there.

Food, glorious food

In our opinion, every long weekend itinerary should be based around what (and where) you are going to eat. Adelaide is a food-lovers paradise and there are endless options to keep your hunger pangs at bay.

Start your long weekend the right way at Adelaide Central Markets, one of Australia’s largest fresh produce markets featuring a wide range of fresh and multicultural products. The markets are a quintessential Adelaide experience, and a favourite spot with locals.

After filling up on all the fresh produce you can handle, satisfy your sweet cravings with a visit to Haigh’s Chocolate Factory. Haigh’s are Australia’s oldest family-owned chocolate maker, and their Visitor Centre and Factory located on the edge of Adelaide’s parklands gives you up close access to the confectioners who use their artisan skills to create the delicious range of chocolates we have all come to love.

A trip to Adelaide wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one (or some) of Adelaide’s best restaurants, and there are plenty to choose from! If you need some help picking between authentic Napoli-style pizzerias or African-inspired diners, check out South Australia Tourism’s guide to the best restaurants in Adelaide.

Red, red wine

With more than 200 cellar doors on its doorstep, Adelaide is the perfect destination for connoisseurs of fine wine. You are totally spoilt for choice with the Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale, Barossa and the Clare Valley all within easy driving distance of the city centre.

On a recent visit to Adelaide our author spent a day in McLaren Vale and highly recommends Down The Rabbit Hole Wines for it’s laid back vibes, and Coriole for its cottage garden vibes and sumptuous 5-course tasting menu. Top your visit off by stopping by the infamous d’Arenberg cube where food, wine and art converge to challenge convention.

Take me to the beach

When you're done eating and drinking your way through the South Australian capital, pull up stumps at one of the many beautiful beaches along Adelaide’s 30km of continuous coastline. Only twenty minutes from the city centre you’ll find wide sandy beaches, activities for the whole family, and plenty of dining and shopping options for a relaxed day out.

Make your way to famous Glenelg and visit the famed Jetty Road boasting dozens of boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. While you’re there visit The Moseley Beach Club which takes its inspiration from premium beach clubs across Europe – the perfect spot to soak up those sunset vibes while sipping on a cold bevvy.

Other popular Adelaide beaches include Henley Beach with its high-end restaurants and bustling square, and Brighton with its relaxed vibe and eclectic cafes. If you’re looking to get further out of the city, a visit to the Fleurieu Peninsula won’t disappoint thanks to the multiple stunning beaches that are perfect for a surf or snorkel.

What’s On

Check out What’s On in South Australia so you can time your trip to Adelaide with the many events and festivals lining the calendar year-round.

Where to stay

Adelaide has a wide range of accommodation on offer – from five-star luxury to boutique and budget hotels. Check out SA Tourism’s list of best hotels to find the perfect base for your Adelaide adventure.