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Already thinking about your next trip? Adelaide might be the destination you didn’t know you needed with plenty of things to do in Adelaide. With direct flights to Adelaide from Newcastle Airport, it’s never been easier to pack your bag, skip the M1 and be on your way to a city that’s full of surprises. Start your holiday sooner and fly from the airport that’s just up the road. 

1. Wine Lovers Paradise

South Australia is home to some of Australia’s most famous wine regions, from the lush vineyards of the Barossa Valley to the coastal charm of McLaren Vale you’re never far from a cellar door. Join a wine tour or book a tasting at wineries like Penfolds, d'Arenberg or Jacob's Creek. Even if wine isn’t really your thing many vineyards offer amazing dining experiences, sculpture trails and cooking classes that celebrate the local produce.

2. A Festival Capital

If you love a good event Adelaide has got a calendar full of them. The city comes alive during the Adelaide Fringe Festival, WOMADelaide and the Adelaide Festival of Arts. Music, comedy, theatre and visual arts there is always something happening. For sports fans, catching a match at Adelaide Oval is a must. With cricket, AFL and concerts under the stars the Oval is as scenic as it is historic.

3. A Foodies Dream

South Australia is serious about good food. Think laneway eateries, fresh seafood and multicultural bites at the Adelaide Central Market. Book a table at Africola for bold flavours, try a tasting menu at Restaurant Botanic or enjoy modern Australian cuisine at Peel St Restaurant. For something more relaxed, there are dozens of wine bars, bakeries and street food hubs scattered throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. From market brunches to fine dining experiences, every meal is an event in itself.

4. Coastal Escapes Close By

Just 20 minutes from the city you could be walking along Glenelg Beach, grabbing fish and chips at Henley or catching a stunning sunset over the water. Or you could try paddle boarding at Semaphore, plus dolphin cruises from Port Adelaide. If you’ve got more time take a drive down the Fleurieu Peninsula or explore the white sands of Port Willunga.

5. Gateway to Adventure

Ready to explore beyond the city? Adelaide is the starting point for more. Visit Kangaroo Island for unique wildlife experiences, explore underground at the Naracoorte Caves or head north to the Flinders Ranges for hiking and ancient landscapes. For something closer to Adelaide itself take a drive up to Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German town for schnitzels, strudels and cute boutiques. After a good road trip? The Adelaide Hills, Limestone Coast, and Clare Valley are all within a few hours drive and packed with natural wonders and character-filled towns.

6. A City That’s Easy to Love

You could take a guided tour or hire a bike to discover hidden gems like the quirky JamFactory galleries or the rooftop bar options along Leigh Street. The tram system makes it super easy to get from the beach to the Botanic Gardens without needing a car. Plus the city’s pace is nice and relaxed, making it perfect for unwinding while still exploring. Whether you’re travelling solo, with mates, or with the whole family it’s a city that just makes life easier.

 

Your 4-Day Adelaide Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City Core

  • Head straight to the Adelaide Central Market for breakfast and a wander

  • Visit the Art Gallery of South Australia or MOD. for a cultural hit

  • Take a sunset tram ride to Glenelg for dinner by the sea

Day 2: Wine Region Day Trip

  • Book a full day wine tour to the Barossa or McLaren Vale

  • Enjoy tastings, local produce and vineyard views

  • Dine at d'Arenberg Cube or The Lane Vineyard for lunch

  • Return to Adelaide for a relaxed evening in the East End

Day 3: Coast and Wildlife

  • Start with brunch at a beachside cafe in Henley or Semaphore

  • Take a dolphin cruise at Port Adelaide or explore the Maritime Museum

  • Visit Cleland Wildlife Park to meet koalas and kangaroos up close

  • Catch sunset from Mount Lofty before dinner in the Hills

Day 4: Hills and Hahndorf

  • Head out early for a day in the Adelaide Hills

  • Stroll the main street of Hahndorf, packed with heritage shops and cafes

  • Stop for tastings at Shaw + Smith or Nepenthe

  • Fly back to Newcastle in the afternoon, already planning your return

Why Fly Direct from Newcastle Airport?

Here’s the kicker—you can fly direct from Newcastle to Adelaide to save yourself the early alarm and the drive to Sydney. Find yourself a park right out the front, breeze through check-in, and be in the air before you know it. 

Book Your Trip

Whether you’re chasing culture, coast, or a killer glass of red, Adelaide delivers. Explore our Adelaide destination page for more ideas, tips, and travel inspo.

Fly from the airport that’s just up the road. Fly the Newy Way.

 

Take off to Adelaide with QantasLink

Flights depart every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Friday. 

Remember to search for flights:

  • from Newcastle (Williamtown) to Adelaide
  • QF1969 with 0 stops
  • Flight time 2h 20m 

Newcastle to Adelaide:

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday.

Adelaide to Newcastle:

Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday.

The direct flight from Newcastle Airport (NTL) to Adelaide Airport (ADL) typically takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. This journey allows you to travel from the Hunter region to South Australia's vibrant capital in just over two hours.

You can fly direct from Newcastle to Adelaide five times a week, with flights available on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Qantaslink, in partnership with Alliance Airlines, operates this direct route using an Embraer E190 jet with 10 Business and 84 Economy seats.

When booking, you may see a description such as "Flight QF1969 operated by Alliance Airlines." While the aircraft features Alliance Airlines livery and logos, the flight is part of Qantas' network, meaning you'll enjoy Qantas benefits and service.

Adelaide Airport is conveniently located approximately 6 to 7 kilometres from the city centre. The drive typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes by car, making for a quick and easy transfer to your accommodation or activities.

Adelaide is a fantastic destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for:

  • March–May (Autumn): Perfect for wine tours and outdoor festivals.
  • June–August (Winter): Great for cosy wine region escapes and exploring Adelaide’s vibrant food scene.
  • September–November (Spring): Ideal for wildflower blooms and coastal walks.
  • December–February (Summer): Best for beach trips and major sporting events.

Adelaide is packed with things to see and do, including:

  • Barossa Valley & McLaren Vale: Two of Australia’s most famous wine regions.
  • Adelaide Oval: Catch an AFL match or take a stadium tour.
  • Adelaide Central Market: One of the largest and oldest fresh produce markets in the country.
  • Glenelg Beach: A must-visit coastal destination just 20 minutes from the city.
  • Art Gallery of South Australia: Home to an incredible collection of Indigenous and international art.

Travellers can reach the city from Adelaide Airport via:

  • Taxis & Rideshare Services: Rideshare and traditional taxis are available at the terminal.
  • Public Transport: Adelaide Metro offers a direct bus service to the city.
  • Car Rentals: Major car hire companies operate from the airport for those wanting to explore the region.

Absolutely. With its rich cultural scene, renowned wineries, and beautiful coastlines, Adelaide offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for a weekend escape. Whether you're exploring the Barossa Valley or enjoying the vibrant city life, there's plenty to fill a short trip.

Flights can be booked directly through Qantas or your preferred travel booking platform. Book early to secure the best fares!

Adelaide shines in autumn (March–May) and spring (September–November), when the weather is mild and the city’s events calendar is packed. Think wine regions in full harvest, Fringe Festival fun, and scenic coastlines without the summer crowds.

Yes, Adelaide’s world-class wine regions like Barossa and McLaren Vale are a must-visit and yes, you can bring wine home. Just check your airline’s policy for packing alcohol in checked baggage. Many cellar doors even offer travel-friendly packaging.

Definitely. Adelaide’s CBD is compact and easy to explore on foot. Most major attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance and the free city tram makes getting around even easier.

Newcastle Airport

Newcastle Airport is the gateway to Australia’s largest regional economy, with more than $43 billion annual output and 48,500 businesses. Jointly owned by City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council, we are governed by an independent, skills-based Board of Directors.

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