Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is known for its laid-back charm, rich cultural scene, and proximity to world-class wine regions. With its blend of historic architecture, green parklands, and a thriving arts scene, the city offers a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere for visitors. It’s also a gateway to explore nearby beaches, hills, and wildlife reserves.
How to get to Adelaide from Alice Springs from Townsville
You can, of course, fly, but I continued by Greyhound since I had already purchased the pass. The trip takes about 20 hours, departing from Alice Springs at 10 a.m. and arriving in Adelaide early the next morning at 6 a.m.
Adelaide
Adelaide feels very different from Cairns or Alice Springs. It’s a larger city and feels much safer as well. The city center is surrounded by parks and botanical gardens, giving it a lovely, relaxed atmosphere. When I visited, it was the beginning of Australian spring, and being so far south, the weather was still quite crisp at times. It was the first time I had to pull my sweatshirt from the bottom of my backpack since Nepal! While one day is enough to explore the city itself, the beautiful forests bordering Adelaide kept me busy for the rest of my stay.
Things to see in and around Adelaide:
- Adelaide Botanic Garden – Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens featuring exotic plant collections, a rose garden, and the stunning Amazon Waterlily Pavilion.
- Wine Tasting at the National Wine Centre of Australia – Explore Australia’s diverse wine regions and sample some of the best local wines at this interactive and informative venue.
- Waite Conservation Reserve – Hike through native bushland and enjoy scenic views, home to diverse flora and fauna, just a short drive from the city. I particularly enjoyed this spot, as the forest has a mystical atmosphere, with its somewhat eerie trees contrasting against the bright green grass. I spotted kangaroos, cockatoos, and parrots, which was amazing. Apparently, you can also see echidnas here, but I wasn’t that lucky.
- Cleland Wildlife Park & Mount Lofty – Get up close with Australian wildlife at Cleland, then hike or drive up Mount Lofty for panoramic views of Adelaide and the coastline.
- North Terrace Cultural Precinct – Visit Adelaide’s museums, art galleries, and historic buildings, all located along this iconic boulevard.
- Glenelg Beach – Relax at Adelaide’s favorite seaside suburb, with its sandy beach, lively jetty road, and waterfront dining.
- Adelaide Central Market – Immerse yourself in the vibrant food scene, sampling fresh produce, local delicacies, and gourmet treats.
