📍 The Perfect Adelaide CBD Weekend Itinerary

#springitinerary
🚶♂️ Getting Around

Adelaide’s city centre is extremely walkable, with a free City Connector bus and tram (Glenelg line) for longer distances.

☕ Day 1: Culture, Cafés & Laneway Secrets

🌞 Morning: Coffee & Breakfast at the East End

Started at Exchange Specialty Coffee (a local favourite for pour-overs).
Grabbed smashed avo toast at Peter Rabbit—a lush, garden-style café in a hidden courtyard.
🎨 Midday: Art & History in the Cultural Precinct

Explored the Art Gallery of South Australia (free entry, incredible Indigenous art collection).
Walked through Adelaide Arcade (historic shopping laneway with boutique stores).
Quick stop at the South Australian Museum (fascinating Aboriginal artefacts & natural history).
🍜 Afternoon: Central Market & Chinatown

Adelaide Central Market (a foodie heaven since 1869!)—tried local cheeses, fresh oysters, and a famous Prosperity Roll from Asian Gourmet.
Explored Gouger Street (Adelaide’s Chinatown) for dumplings at Ying Chow (order the crispy eggplant!).
🍷 Evening: Rooftop Drinks & Fine Dining

Sunset cocktails at 2KW Bar (best rooftop views of the city).
Dinner at Africola (vibrant North African flavours) or Osteria Oggi (classic Italian with a modern twist).
🌿 Day 2: Parks, Shopping & River Walks

🌅 Morning: Sunrise at Adelaide Botanic Garden

Wandered through the Palm House (a stunning glasshouse) and the First Creek Wetland.
Breakfast at Botanic Gardens Restaurant (high tea vibes with garden views).
🛍️ Midday: Rundle Mall & Hidden Boutiques

Shopped at Rundle Mall (Adelaide’s main shopping strip—don’t miss the Mall’s Balls sculpture!).
Discovered indie boutiques in Peel Street & Leigh Street (Adelaide’s coolest small bars and shops).
🚣♂️ Afternoon: Relaxing by the River Torrens

Rented a pop-eye boat (yes, the classic ones!) or just strolled along the Elder Park promenade.
Visited the Adelaide Oval (even if you’re not a sports fan, the rooftop climb is epic).
🍽️ Evening: Dinner in the West End

Press Food & Wine (modern Australian with a killer wine list).
Maybe Mae (speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a fake door—great for nightcaps).
💡 Why Adelaide CBD is a Perfect Weekend Escape

✅ Compact & walkable—no need for a car!
✅ Food & wine paradise—Central Market, top-notch restaurants, and laneway bars.
✅ Mix of culture & nature—museums, gardens, and river walks all in one place.

Would I return? Absolutely! Next time, I’d add a day trip to Hahndorf or Barossa Valley.

🏙️ Final Thoughts

Adelaide’s city centre is underrated but unforgettable—packed with history, incredible food, and a relaxed vibe. Perfect for a weekend recharge!

Have you explored Adelaide? What’s your favourite CBD spot? Let me know in the comments!

📸 P.S. Follow my travels for more city guides!

Bonus Tips:

Free tram zone covers most of the CBD.
Best time to visit? Spring (Sept-Nov) for perfect weather and festivals.
Alternative stay? Try The Mayfair Hotel for luxury or The Franklin for boutique charm.