Adelaide in 3 Days: A Curated Journey Through Parks, Markets, and Heritage

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by Noah

March 29, 2024 · 2 min read

Adelaide 3 Days Itinerary

Embark on a 3-day exploration of Adelaide, a city that blends natural beauty with cultural richness. Begin your journey at the Adelaide Botanic Garden, a serene city park where you can immerse yourself in lush greenery. Next, enrich your mind at the State Library of South Australia, followed by a shopping experience at Adelaide Arcade. Savor local flavors at Adelaide Central Market and indulge in the sweet delights of Haigh's Chocolates with a factory tour. On day two, meet exotic wildlife at Adelaide Zoo, admire the architecture of St Peter's Cathedral, and feel the energy at Adelaide Oval. Relax in the tranquility of Elder Park and delve into history at Adelaide Gaol. Your final day takes you to the sandy shores of Glenelg Beach for a refreshing start, followed by an extensive exploration of the scenic Adelaide Hills. This itinerary promises a blend of leisure, education, and adventure, ensuring a comprehensive experience of Adelaide's most treasured attractions.

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Day 1: Enchanting Adelaide - Gardens, Galleries, and Gourmet Delights

1

Adelaide Botanic Garden

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Begin your Adelaide adventure amidst the lush tranquility of the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Nestled on North Terrace, this urban oasis offers an hour of serene exploration. Wander through a tapestry of themed gardens, marvel at exotic plant collections, and soak in the peaceful ambiance that sets the perfect tone for the day ahead.

Attraction Info

  • North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 4/1-4/30,Mon-Fri,7:15am-6:00pm;Open from 4/1-4/30,Sat-Sun,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 5/1-8/31,Mon-Fri,7:15am-5:30pm;Open from 5/1-8/31,Sat-Sun,9:00am-5:30pm;Open from 9/1-9/30,Mon-Fri,7:15am-6:00pm;Open from 9/1-9/30,Sat-Sun,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 10/1-11/30,Mon-Fri,7:15am-7:00pm;Open from 10/1-11/30,Sat-Sun,9:00am-7:00pm;Open from 12/1-3/31,7:15am-8:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Red Ochre Barrel and Grill
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4.7/5 · 12 reviews
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12 min,0.91 km
2

State Library of South Australia

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Just a short stroll from the botanical serenity, the State Library of South Australia awaits as your next cultural encounter. Spend an hour delving into the state's rich literary heritage, admiring the historic architecture, and exploring the vast collections of books and manuscripts that chronicle South Australia's intriguing past.

Attraction Info

  • North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open on Mon, Wed-Fri,10:00am-5:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,12:00pm-5:00pm;Open on Tue,10:00am-7:00pm
8 min,0.63 km
3

Adelaide Arcade

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Continue your journey through Adelaide's heart at the Adelaide Arcade. Immerse yourself in an hour of retail therapy within this charming historical precinct, where the blend of local boutiques and specialty shops offers a unique shopping experience amidst the architectural elegance of yesteryear.

Attraction Info

  • 112/118 Grenfell Street between Grenfell Street &, Rundle Mall, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open on Fri,9:00am-9:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,9:00am-5:00pm;Open on Mon-Thu,9:00am-6:00pm,Holidays are subject to opening conditions on that day.
20 min,1.42 km
4

Adelaide Central Market

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As lunchtime approaches, the Adelaide Central Market beckons with its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of fresh produce. Dedicate an hour to savoring the flavors of local and international cuisine, engaging with friendly vendors, and discovering why this market is a beloved institution in Adelaide's culinary scene.

Attraction Info

  • 44/60 Gouger St, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open on Fri,7:00am-9:00pm;Open on Sat,7:00am-3:00pm;Open on Tue,7:00am-5:30pm;Open on Wed-Thu,9:00am-5:30pm;Closed on Mon, Sun,Please refer to the official announcement for holiday opening information.
8 min,3.72 km
5

Haigh's Chocolates + Factory Tours

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Conclude your first day's exploration on a sweet note at Haigh's Chocolates + Factory Tours. A mere 10-minute drive from the market, indulge in a one-hour tour that reveals the secrets behind their exquisite confections. Taste premium chocolates and witness the artistry of chocolate-making in a setting that's as delightful as the treats themselves.

Attraction Info

  • 154, B26, Parkside SA 5063, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open on Mon-Fri,9:00am-5:30pm;Open on Sat,9:00am-5:00pm;Open on Sun,10:00am-3:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Red Ochre Barrel and Grill
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Day 2: Adelaide's Iconic Landmarks and Leisure

1

Adelaide Zoo

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Kickstart your second day in Adelaide with a visit to the Adelaide Zoo, a sanctuary where wildlife thrives amidst the city's bustle. Nestled on Frome Road, spend a couple of hours marveling at the diverse species and engaging exhibits. The zoo is not just a place to see animals; it's an educational journey that highlights the importance of conservation and the wonders of nature.

Attraction Info

  • Frome Rd, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open from 9:30am-5:00pm

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Mayflower Restaurant
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4.7/5 · 12 reviews
1.2 km from attraction
Café Troppo
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4.7/5 · 11 reviews
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14 min,0.98 km
2

St Peter's Cathedral

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Following the animal encounters, a serene shift awaits at St Peter's Cathedral. This architectural marvel on King William Road offers an hour of tranquility and reflection. The church's stunning design and peaceful ambiance provide a perfect interlude to the day's adventures.

Attraction Info

  • 27 King William Rd, North Adelaide SA 5006, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open on Mon-Fri,10:30am-3:30pm;Open on Sun,8:00am-12:00pm,5:00pm-7:00pm
6 min,0.52 km
3

Adelaide Oval

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After nourishing the spirit, it's time to celebrate sports at the Adelaide Oval. Located on War Memorial Drive, this gym is a testament to the city's love for athletics and a hub for fitness enthusiasts. Spend an hour exploring the grounds, and perhaps catch a glimpse of a local match or event.

Attraction Info

  • War Memorial Dr, North Adelaide SA 5006, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 9:00am-5:00pm
6 min,0.44 km
4

Elder Park

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Continuing the outdoor theme, Elder Park is your next stop. This city park, with its sprawling greenery and scenic paths, offers a two-hour respite from the urban environment. Located on King William Road, it's the ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic by the river.

Attraction Info

  • King William Rd, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open 24 hours
10 min,5.94 km
5

Adelaide Gaol

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Conclude your day steeped in history at the Adelaide Gaol. With one hour to explore, this museum on Gaol Road offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved historical buildings. It's a thought-provoking finale to a day filled with Adelaide's diverse attractions.

Attraction Info

  • 18 Gaol Rd, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
  • Open from 10:00am-4:00pm

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Day 3: Sun, Surf, and Scenic Drives in Adelaide

1

Glenelg Beach

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Begin your final day with the soothing sounds of the waves at Glenelg Beach, a coastal escape just a stone's throw from the city bustle. As the first stop of the day, immerse yourself in the charm of this seaside haven for an hour, where historic buildings fringe the soft sands, offering a picturesque backdrop to your morning stroll. The vibrant atmosphere of Glenelg, with its quaint shops and inviting cafes, provides the perfect setting to reflect on your Adelaide adventure.

Attraction Info

  • S Esplanade, Glenelg SA 5045, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

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/5 · 0 reviews
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/5 · 0 reviews
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36 min,23.74 km
2

Adelaide Hills

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After soaking up the coastal vibes, venture into the heart of nature with a visit to the Adelaide Hills. This six-hour journey will take you along ancient roads, through a landscape dotted with quaint villages and lush vineyards. The Adelaide Hills are a tapestry of natural wonders, from the whispering leaves of the towering eucalyptus to the serene ambience of the hidden valleys. As you explore this enchanting region, let the panoramic views etch into your memory, culminating your Adelaide itinerary with a serene and scenic finale.

Attraction Info

  • Adelaide Hills, SA, Australia
  • Suggested tour duration: 6-8 hour

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

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/5 · 0 reviews
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Top Things to Do in Adelaide-2024

TOP 1
Adelaide Arcade
Adelaide Arcade
4.7/5 · 20 review
Highlights:
Adelaide Arcade is located in the RundleMall shopping center. It has a European architectural style and was built in 1885. It is similar to the Melbourne arcade and the Queen Victoria Building in Sydney. There is a historical monument in front of the Adelaide arcade mall - The Rundle Mall Fountain, the Rundle Mall fountain, the Grenfell St end of the arcade mall is an old shop founded in 1915, fruit and nut flavored chocolates and truffles The best-selling Hagrid chocolate shop Haigh's Chocolates.
Continue in the Trip.com App
TOP 2
Adelaide Zoo
Adelaide Zoo
4.3/5 · 56 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 3,340 review
Highlights:
About 1,500 species of mammals, reptiles, birds, etc. are raised in the garden. There is also a children's zoo and a Southeast Asian rainforest display center.
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TOP 3
Adelaide Central Market
Adelaide Central Market
4.5/5 · 77 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 3,862 review
Highlights:
Central Market is the largest market in the southern hemisphere, with over 250 food stalls to satisfy any food craving. All the food you can think of is here. I hope you go to the market with an empty stomach, so you can go back to your heart’s content! The Central Market is located in the urban area of Adelaide. In such an expensive location, a 140-year-old market is allowed. Adelaide's attitude towards ingredients is evident. Fresh fish, fruits and vegetables, all kinds of cheeses, desserts, breads, grains and processed meats are all available. Here, you can not only taste delicious food, but also chat with interesting stall owners, learn about the historical changes of the market and different food cultures, and increase your knowledge!
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TOP 4
Glenelg Beach
Glenelg Beach
4.4/5 · 85 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 655 review
Highlights:
In the slightly hot summer, Greer is a resort for locals to escape the heat and enjoy the sea. People who like tranquility will put up a beach chair or a blanket here and sit and watch the blue sea to feel the enthusiasm of the sun, while active people like all kinds of fun water games, from the bridge board. Jumping down has become a challenge game for many brave warriors. Standing on the bridge, a perfect take-off action is matched with the self-created water entry action, accompanied by a burst of water and jumping into the icy sea. That kind of excitement is cool! Or find a surfing instructor, "ride the wind and waves" under his leadership, and experience the fun of surfing. This is a favorite project of local children. Of course, there are many activities you can join on the beach, such as Australia's characteristic sport - cricket, or beach volleyball, which is suitable for all ages. You can join the locals and experience the sweaty beach sports.
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TOP 5
Adelaide Botanic Garden
Adelaide Botanic Garden
4.4/5 · 79 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 4,024 review
Highlights:
Walking into the park, the roads are filled with colorful plants of different shapes and sizes, which makes it feel like summer. There is a rose garden not far from the entrance, where roses of various colors compete for beauty. Going deep into the park, you will see a large-scale glass greenhouse "Tropical Rainforest Observation Park" in the southern hemisphere, which is the 200th anniversary of the founding of Australia. Walking in is like being in the Jurassic era, and there will be water mist spraying from time to time. The botanical garden is large and suitable for walking.
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* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Adelaide 3 Days Itinerary