Welcome to Adelaide, a city that welcomed us with open arms and set the stage for an unforgettable family adventure. In our 3-day Adelaide itinerary, we explored South Australia’s charm, from the sandy playground of Sellicks Beach to the enchanting sunset spectacle at Glenelg Jetty. We stumbled upon unexpected delights in Elder Park and indulged in shopping bliss at Rundle Mall.
Content Teaser
Quick Peek
For our busy travelers, here is the Fact-sheet about our 3-day Adelaide itinerary.
Travel Time
September
Travel Mode
Weekend Getaway
Our Must-Sees
Glenelg Jetty, Sellick
Where to stay
Lakes Resort Hotel
Plant-Based Food
Mobility
Rental car
Travel Budget
€1.380 / 2.280AUD
Discover Adelaide’s Best: Essential Stops for Your Trip
As we touched down at the international airport, Adelaide welcomed us with open arms, setting the stage for an unforgettable family adventure. With the sun on our faces and excitement in our hearts, we couldn’t wait to dive into South Australia’s charm. While our hotel room wasn’t quite ready that early morning, we seized the opportunity to make the most of our time and headed straight for Sellicks Beach. Little did we anticipate that this spontaneous decision would unveil some of Adelaide’s most enchanting spots.
Sellicks Beach – A Sandy Playground
Our first taste of Adelaide’s magic was at Sellicks Beach. The shimmering coastline stretched out before us, inviting us to make our own footprints in the soft sand. What made it even more exhilarating was our first-ever 4×4 drive along the beach—a thrilling adventure that had both kids and adults grinning from ear to ear. The feeling of the cool sea breeze and the gentle waves lapping at the shore was the perfect start to our journey.
Glenelg Jetty – A Sunset Spectacle
Later in the day, we reached Glenelg Jetty for a magical evening. The jetty impressed, and the kids found a nearby playground. While they played, we enjoyed a mesmerizing sunset, creating an unforgettable family memory.
Elder Park and Oval – A Pleasant Surprise
Our wanderlust took us to Elder Park, where we discovered the Lucky Dumpling Market unexpectedly. The aroma of dumplings filled the air, offering a delightful culinary adventure. Elder Park’s serene ambiance and surprises made our Adelaide journey memorable.
Rundle Mall – Strolling Through Shopping Bliss
Stepping into Rundle Mall felt like stepping into a shopper’s paradise. This bustling pedestrian zone offered a wide array of shops and boutiques, and we couldn’t resist taking a leisurely stroll. It was the perfect place to grab a souvenir or two while immersing ourselves in the lively atmosphere of Adelaide’s city center.
Our Cozy Nest in Adelaide: Where we rested
While we were in Adelaide, we stayed at the Lakes Resort Hotel. Picking the right place for our family was important, and this hotel checked all our boxes. We wanted comfort, convenience, and a central spot that would let us explore without dealing with downtown traffic all the time. For our three-night stay, this hotel was the obvious pick.
Eating Green in Adelaide: Our Vegan Food Journey
Adelaide’s vegan food scene surpassed our expectations, offering us the chance to relish delectable plant-based dishes in unexpected places. Our culinary journey kicked off with an unplanned feast at the Dumpling Street Market Festival in Elder Park, where we savored a delightful array of dishes.
Veggo Sizzle
Our quest for vegan delights led us to Veggo Sizzle, and it quickly became a cherished find. Share your thoughts on the restaurant’s ambiance, the delectable dishes you savored, and any must-try items on the menu.
Lord of the Fries – Quick Comfort
On one evening, after a day filled with adventures, we opted for a quick and satisfying meal at Lord of the Fries near Glenelg Jetty. While not the healthiest choice, sometimes convenience takes precedence, especially when you’ve had a jam-packed day.
Lucky Duck, Aldinga
However, our ultimate culinary highlight awaited us at Lucky Ducks in Aldinga, a delightful discovery during one of our day trips. The restaurant’s charm extended to the kids, who found small animal figurines to play with—a perfect touch for a family outing.
On the Move in Adelaide – How We Got Around
While Adelaide offers different transportation options for exploring the city, our family primarily relied on the convenience and flexibility of a rental car. Navigating a new city with young children in tow requires efficient transportation, and Adelaide certainly delivers. Here’s how we got around:
Upon our arrival at Adelaide International Airport, we picked up our rental car from Sixt—a Toyota Prado that offered ample space for our luggage and the kids. To ensure their safety, we also booked two additional child seats. With everything set, our family adventure was ready to kick off.
One pleasant surprise during our time in Adelaide was the parking situation. Parking fees were relatively reasonable, and in many areas, parking became free after 6:00 PM. This made exploring the city during the evening hours even more enjoyable.
Adelaide on a Budget: Our Expense Breakdown
Accomodation
€190/night (incl. breakfast) x 3 nights = €570
Food & Dining
Dumpling Street Festival €80 /
Lucky Ducks €100 /
Other €120
Mobility
Rental Car (Toyota Prado) €120 per day = €360
Petrol & Parking €150
Activities
all for free
Total Spent
€1.380 / 2.280AUD
Adelaide Through the Lens: The Best Instagrammable Places
For a deeper dive into these captivating Instagrammable places that showcase South Australia’s beauty through the lens, don’t miss our dedicated post. Explore the stunning coastal vistas of Sellicks Beach, the vibrant street art of Adelaide, the serene charm of Marlin Beach near Gull Rock, the picturesque drive along Seppeltsfield Road, and the surreal beauty of Bumbunga Lake’s colorful salt pans. Your photography adventure awaits—visit our detailed post to unlock the full beauty of South Australia.
Adelaide FAQs: Answers to your Travel Questions
September is an ideal time to visit Adelaide. The weather is comfortable, not too hot, making it perfect for exploring without breaking a sweat.
Renting a car is the best way to get around Adelaide and its surrounding region, offering convenience and flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Adelaide and its region are incredibly family-friendly, with no safety concerns. Travelers with children can explore with peace of mind.
Yes, Adelaide offers beautiful beaches for swimming and relaxation. Some popular options include Glenelg Beach, Henley Beach, and Brighton Beach.
The local currency in Adelaide is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops.
Not officially, but probably the Adelaide Oval is one of the best-known landmarks.
An Evening in Glenelg / A Day trip through Barossa Valley / Sellicks Beach Area and Maslin Beach
