With car hire available from Adelaide, however you arrive, South Australia makes for days of adventure. Fill your time with vibrant city culture in Adelaide, outdoor adventure in the Fleurieu Peninsula and Barossa Valley, or relaxation at the regions many beaches.

Create a memorable South Australia road trip with our suggestions.

In the city

Adelaide provides city culture alongside outdoor space to relax and unwind. Home to the Art Gallery of South Australia and two museums, those with an appetite for learning can indulge in culture for as long as they please. 

The undercover Adelaide city market is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. It has been in operation for 150 years and sells a wide variety of cuisine and produce, from cheese to fruit and huge amount more.

If the market can’t satisfy your culinary desires, Adelaide now features entire streets dedicated to food and drinks, including outdoor dining when the weather is fine.

For some fresh air and sunshine, the Adelaide Botanic Garden is a 50 hectare experience of plants, flowers, landscaped gardens. It’s open every day of the year and there is no admission fee. Within the grounds are several options for leisurely refreshment too.

Fleurieu Peninsula

A 45-minute drive south of Adelaide brings you to the the Fleurieu Peninsula. Filled with beaches, beautiful scenery, clifftop walks and plenty of opportunities to get wet, the peninsula has much to keep you entertained. You can surf, scuba dive or swim if you’re keen to cool off. If you’d rather stay above the water, join a fishing or sailing trip instead. During the winter months, whale watching is available as well.

Beach time

Glenelg beach is half an hour away by tram, and presents an opportunity to soak up the rays and cool off in the water. You might find some fishermen in action, or a game of beach volleyball underway. There are plenty of shops and restaurants nearby if you forget anything or fancy extending your stay to include dinner. Dolphin-spotting trips are available from Glenelg too.

There are several other beaches in the area too, if you fancy extending your sunbathing schedule.

Barossa Valley vineyards

The area famous for its Shiraz is comprised of numerous vineyards dotted around cute villages, sprawling farms and Australian bush. Wine aside, a tour of the region is a picturesque way to spend a few hours or several days. There are cycling tours, hot air balloon rides, gourmet food options and a number of cultural events to entertain.

A number of towns and villages in the region that provide a base for exploring, with accommodation ranging from budget to luxurious. 

Don’t forget a nominated driver if you fancy an independent vineyard tour.

Explore from the moment you arrive with our Adelaide Airport car hire options or our city centre office.