Location & Transportation
Cruise ships dock at the Outer Harbor wharf where you’ll find the upgraded Port Adelaide Passenger Terminal. I love that there’s even a direct walkway from the terminal to the nearby Outer Harbor railway station, making onward travel a breeze.
Getting from the port to the city is simple:
- By train: It’s about 10 suburban stops (roughly 40 minutes) with services running every 30 minutes.
- By taxi: The ride to central Port Adelaide takes around 15 minutes, and after peak morning traffic, fares are about A$30.
- By bus: Route 150 will also take you into the heart of the city.
As you leave the terminal, take some time to explore the historic docks and colonial buildings along the old Port. Whether you’re on a self-guided walk or joining a guided tour, there’s plenty to admire. You might even catch a glimpse of playful dolphins along the Port River while using an all-day transit ticket (around A$10) for trains and buses.
Sightseeing
Adelaide is a city with personality and charm. Founded in 1836 as a planned capital, it still shows off its impressive colonial architecture. Walking through the city center, you quickly notice the grid of wide boulevards, parks, and beautifully preserved facades.
Here are some highlights I recommend:
- Stroll through Rundle Mall – the beating heart of Adelaide’s shopping and street life.
- Walk along North Terrace to see cultural landmarks including the South Australian Museum, the Art Gallery of South Australia, and the State Library.
- Admire architectural gems such as the Old Parliament House (now the Constitutional Museum), Parliament House, and Government House.
- Visit the impressive Adelaide Railway Station and then wander off to discover intimate spots like St Peter's Cathedral in North Adelaide.
- For museum lovers, check out the Maritime Museum, Railway Museum, and the Aviation Museum on Lipson Street – each offering a unique look at Australia’s rich history.
Tours & Excursions
Adelaide’s compact and walkable city center makes it a delight to explore:
- Hop on the free city bus (look for the 99C route with both clockwise and anticlockwise loops) to cover major cultural and commercial spots.
- Enjoy a storytelling tram ride to Glenelg – a charming seaside resort only 10 km from the city center with long, sandy shores and a relaxed vibe.
- If you’re up for nature, plan a visit to Cleland Wildlife Park – just a 20-minute drive from central Adelaide. Here you can meet kangaroos, koalas, emus, and more, all set within beautiful bushland.
Shopping
Adelaide offers a mix of modern and traditional shopping experiences:
- Rundle Mall is a vibrant pedestrian street lined with boutiques, department stores, cafes, and spontaneous street performances.
- Just a few paces west of Victoria Square, the Central Market has been serving the city with fresh produce and culinary delights since 1870. It’s a great spot to pick up unique souvenirs and sample local flavors.
Dining
The city boasts a lively food scene that caters to every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual café lunch or a fine dining experience, you’ll find plenty of options:
- Sample local treats at bustling cafés around Rundle Mall.
- Enjoy contemporary Australian cuisine in restaurants that blend seasonal ingredients with innovative twists.
- For a relaxed experience, dine outdoors and enjoy the alfresco lifestyle that Adelaide is known for.
Culture & Local Events
Adelaide’s rich cultural scene is woven into everyday life:
- Local currency: The Australian Dollar (AUD) is widely used. While most places accept credit cards, it’s always handy to have a bit of cash for smaller vendors.
- Business hours: Most shops operate Monday to Friday from about 9:00 am to 5:30 pm, with many extending hours on Saturday. In the city center, you might find shops open until 9:00 pm.
- Communication: The passenger terminal offers telephone facilities should you need to get in touch with family or friends.
- Festivals & Events: Adelaide is home to several renowned events. The Adelaide Festival of Arts in March transforms the city with shows and live performances. For more local celebrations, check out the latest at the Festival City Adelaide.
Safety & Awareness
- Keep a close eye on your belongings in busy areas.
- In an emergency, dial 000 for help.