Adelaide Short Trip Guide: Discover the Best of Adelaide in 3 Days

DAY1: CITY WALK

Start your adventure right from the city centre.

Start Your Day

Start your day right in Adelaide with fantastic coffee and brunch — all just a short 10-minute walk from our hotel. The city is known for its lively café scene, with spots like Exchange Coffee (World #37 coffee), room 19 (Asian fusion brunch), and CIBO coffee which is the pride of South Australia. If you are looking for a quick & budget-friendly breakfast, Grosvenor Hotel Adelaide has easy breakfast everyday morning ($18 per person).

So, before you head out to explore, take a moment to enjoy Adelaide’s morning charm. Great coffee, good food, and friendly vibes — all right on your doorstep!

Relax in Nature & Explore Adelaide’s Culture

After a delicious brunch, take a leisurely walk to Adelaide’s beautiful gardens and fascinating museums, all within easy reach.

Start with the Adelaide Botanic Garden, just a short stroll from the city centre. It’s a peaceful escape filled with stunning plants, historic glasshouses, and shady spots to relax. A great way to unwind before an afternoon of exploring!

Just next door is Adelaide Zoo, home to over 2,500 animals, including Australia’s only giant pandas! It’s a great spot for families, couples, or anyone who loves wildlife.

If you’re in the mood for culture, visit the South Australian Museum or the Art Gallery of South Australia, located side by side on North Terrace. Both are free to enter and offer amazing collections — from natural history and fossils to incredible artworks. And don't forget the State Library.

It’s the perfect way to enjoy Adelaide’s mix of nature and culture, all without travelling far.

Grosvenor Hotel Adelaide is right in front of the tram stop, you can travel to these attractions by free tram! Contact us and book a room today!

Shop and Stroll at Rundle Mall

No trip to Adelaide is complete without a visit to Rundle Mall, the city’s famous shopping strip. Just a 5-minute walk from our hotel, Rundle Mall is packed with big-name brands, local boutiques, and plenty of cafes for a quick break.

As you wander through, don’t forget to snap a photo with the iconic bronze pigs and check out the Mall’s Balls — two famous Adelaide landmarks.

Whether you’re looking for fashion, souvenirs, or a last-minute gift, Rundle Mall has something for everyone. Plus, with buskers and pop-up stalls, there’s always something happening to make your shopping trip more fun!

Perfect for a relaxed afternoon before heading back to unwind.

Dinner and Drinks in the City

After a day of exploring, Adelaide’s city centre is the perfect place to unwind with great food and drinks. From casual bites to trendy bars, there’s something to suit every taste.

For a vibrant dining scene, head to Peel Street, known for its modern restaurants and cosy small bars tucked away in laneways. It’s a local favourite for dinner and cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.

If you’re after something livelier, Hindley Street offers a mix of pubs, bars, and late-night eats — ideal if you want to keep the night going.

Whether you’re after a romantic dinner, a casual meal, or drinks with friends, Adelaide’s city centre has plenty of options — all within walking distance from the hotel.

Perfect for ending your day on a high note!

DAY2: For Beach Lovers: Adelaide’s Best Coastal Escapes

Hallett Cove Conservation Park

Hallett Cove Conservation Park is one of Adelaide's most stunning natural reserves, famous for its ancient geological formations, coastal cliffs, and unique glacial history. If you’re looking to add a dose of nature and fresh sea air to your Adelaide trip, this is a must-visit spot — perfect for a half-day adventure!

Start at Hallett Cove Boardwalk

Begin your journey at the Hallett Cove carpark (Heron Way Reserve). From here, you’ll find the boardwalk and interpretive signs that explain the park’s fascinating geological story — think 600-million-year-old rocks shaped by glaciers! The boardwalk takes you along dramatic cliffs, past the famous Sugarloaf rock formation, and offers panoramic ocean views that are especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.

The Coastal Walk to Seacliff

For those up for a longer adventure, continue along the Hallett Cove to Seacliff Boardwalk — a beautiful 6 km (one-way) coastal trail that hugs the coastline the entire way. The walk features a mix of boardwalks, steps, and paved paths, with plenty of lookouts to stop for photos. You’ll pass by small beaches, rocky platforms, and wild coastal vegetation.

Tip: Make sure to wear comfy walking shoes, bring water, and watch for dolphins — they’re often spotted along this stretch!

Finish at Seacliff Beach

End your walk at Seacliff Beach, a lovely spot to relax and reward yourself with a swim or a coffee from the Seacliff Beach Hotel or nearby cafes. If you don't feel like walking back, you can easily catch a train or bus from Seacliff back toward the city.

From Grosvenor Hotel to Hallett Cove: Take a train (Seaford Line) to Hallett Cove Stop. Walk 15 minutes then will arrive at the beach.

Glenelg Beach

If you love the beach but want to avoid long drives, Glenelg Beach is your best option! Just hop on the Glenelg tram right in front of the hotel, and in 40 minutes, you’ll be at Adelaide’s most popular beach — with beautiful city views along the way.

Glenelg is perfect for a day out, with beachfront shops, cafes, and bars. Grab a bite and watch out for cheeky seagulls!

Food recommendations:

Bottega Gelato – Award-winning gelato
Sammy’s on the Marina – Fresh seafood with stunning sunset views
The Ottoman Grill – Healthy grilled dishes and Turkish pizzas

For history lovers, visit the Bay Discovery Centre, a local museum sharing stories of South Australia’s culture, settlement, and beach life.

A perfect seaside escape — easy, fun, and close by!

From Grosvenor Hotel to Glenelg: Take a tram (Glenelg Line) to the final Stop.

Henley Beach

Looking for a more laid-back beach experience? Henley Beach is a beautiful spot with a relaxed vibe — perfect for a peaceful afternoon by the sea. Only about 20 minutes from the city by car or rideshare, Henley Beach offers a wide sandy shoreline, a long jetty, and stunning sunset views.

Take a walk along the beach, enjoy a swim, or just sit back and watch the waves. The Henley Square area is lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars, so you can easily grab a coffee, lunch, or evening drinks with an ocean view.

Food recommendations:

Seamore’s – Modern Australian dishes and cocktails with beach views
Henley Beach Hotel – A classic pub right by the water
Malobo – Great for breakfast, brunch, and casual dining

If you want a beach day that’s less crowded than Glenelg but just as beautiful, Henley Beach is the place to go!

From Grosvenor Hotel to Henley Beach: Take a bus (Route 286, H30, H33, X30).

DAY2: For Mountain & Nature Lovers: Adelaide’s Best Scenic Spots

If you love stunning views, fresh air, and peaceful walks, Adelaide has plenty to offer. Here are three must-visit nature spots for your short trip:

Mount Lofty Summit

For the best panoramic views of Adelaide, head to Mount Lofty Summit, just a 20-minute drive from the city. From the top, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views stretching over Adelaide, the coastline, and beyond — perfect for photos and a peaceful escape from the city. There’s also a summit café where you can enjoy coffee with a view.

While you’re in the area, don’t miss Cleland Wildlife Park, located nearby on the way to the summit. This open-range park is home to koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and emus — and you can even hand-feed some of them! It's a fantastic stop for families, couples, or anyone wanting to experience Australian wildlife up close.

Tip: Combine your visit to Mount Lofty and Cleland for a great half-day trip full of nature and animals!

From Grosvenor Hotel to Mount Lofty Summit: Take a bus (Route 821,822) with 45 minutes of hiking or take a taxi.

Belair National Park

Belair National Park is Adelaide’s oldest national park and a fantastic spot for bushwalking, picnics, and wildlife spotting. Only 25 minutes from the city, this park is home to native plants, koalas, and kangaroos, and offers well-marked walking trails for all fitness levels. It’s a great way to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature, with plenty of open spaces to relax.

From Grosvenor Hotel to Belair National Park: Take a train (Belair Line) to Belair Stop.

Waterfall Gully Adelaide Hills

If you enjoy scenic hikes, Waterfall Gully is a must-see. Located in the foothills, it features Adelaide’s largest waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. You can also take the hiking trail from Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit for a rewarding walk with amazing views at the top. The Adelaide Hills region nearby also offers quaint villages, wineries, and gardens — perfect for a full day of exploring.

From Grosvenor Hotel to Waterfall Gully: Take a bus (Route T800, T801, T863), with 1.5 hours of hiking.

DAY3: A Relaxed Last Day – Markets, Parks & Final City Stroll

On your last day in Adelaide, take it slow and enjoy some final highlights before heading home.

Adelaide Central Market

Start the morning at the famous Adelaide Central Market, just a short walk from the hotel. It’s one of the largest undercover fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere, filled with local produce, gourmet goods, coffee, and snacks — perfect for a light breakfast or picking up some treats to take home.

From the Grosvenor Hotel to Central Market: Catch the tram (Glenelg Line) to the Victoria Square stop, then walk for about 5 minutes.

River Torrens

For a relaxed walk with beautiful city views, head to the River Torrens, right in the heart of Adelaide. The scenic riverbank is perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll, with wide walking paths, peaceful water views, and plenty of photo opportunities.

As you walk along the river, you’ll see the iconic Adelaide Oval, one of Australia’s most famous stadiums. Even if you’re not catching a game, you can join a behind-the-scenes tour to explore the historic grounds and see stunning views from the stands.

Just nearby, you’ll also find St. Peter’s Cathedral, with its beautiful gothic architecture and towering spires. It's one of Adelaide’s most famous landmarks — and looks especially stunning when lit up at night.

Walking along the River Torrens is a great way to enjoy the city’s mix of nature, history, and modern attractions, all within easy reach of our hotel.

If you have more time to explore

Day Trip to Hahndorf: Adelaide Hills’ Charming German Village

If you have a full day to spare, Hahndorf is a must-visit destination. Known as Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, this beautiful village is packed with heritage buildings, boutique shops, and delicious food.

Spend your day wandering down the historic main street, where you’ll find artisan shops, galleries, and handmade goods. Try traditional German food and beers at one of the many pubs or grab a sweet treat from one of the famous German bakeries.

For nature lovers, Hahndorf Farm Barn and nearby Beerenberg Farm (famous for strawberry picking) are great stops, especially for families.

If you’re interested in history and culture, check out The Cedars, home of artist Hans Heysen, offering tours of his house, studio, and gardens.

Hahndorf is the perfect day trip for those who love culture, history, food, and nature — a lovely escape from the city that feels like stepping into a different world!

From Grosvenor Hotel to Hahndorf: Take the bus (Route T801, 860F)

excellent value

fabulous location, comfortable, quiet, spacious rooms. excellent value for city stay. Ok, it's dated, but for one-third/half the price of anything in the vicinity, totally fine for a nights stay. Breakfast options limited, car park is tight (it's an old building!), and only one lift works. staff were lovely. modern bathroom. no views from room though.
If you are looking for somewhere to stay whilst your focus is on being out and about, you can't go wrong. I'm back there again this week.

Jo M

1/ 5

always good

front room upgrade was very welcome. Hassan always welcoming and nice to be greeted as a return guest. Perfect location and good to see a 100 plus years old hotel still being appreciated. Not as modern as the newer hotels but still has lots to offere

kaysE5305MK

2/ 5

A very good budget hotel

Staff very polite and courteous and being a platinum member the double upgrade was most appreciated as we stayed for 17 days. Double rook was very good and enabled me to work in one with peace and quiet.

noelv2017

3/ 5

Value for money

This is a budget hotel in the heart of the city with trams and buses right at the front door.
Excellent location at an affordable price.

Our room was clean and large with two queen beds and nice quality linen.

Bathroom was clean.

Staff were wonderful.

Breakfast made us giggle a bit but gave us enough to fuel us for the day ahead.

To be perfectly honest I almost cancelled our booking after reading some of the reviews but that would’ve been a huge mistake as we were very happy at almost 1/3 of the price of the place across the road.

Kathy M

4/ 5

Spotless, central, quiet, affordable

My room was spotlessly clean, everything in good condition, spacious enough for me as a solo traveler. The pillows were fantastic & my internal facing room incredibly quiet. I chose this hotel for its proximity to the things I wanted to see & for its affordability & wasn’t disappointed. Yes, it’s a little dated but I’m not sure what people expect for $100 p/n

cheekiness

5/ 5