Itineraries Home » South Australia Itineraries » Adelaide in 2 Days: Explore Markets, Murals, Beaches & Rooftop Views
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Adelaide, South Australia's vibrant capital, is a city that blends history, culture, and stunning natural landscapes. From bustling markets and street art-lined laneways to golden beaches, and quirky Big Things, this weekend itinerary will guide you through the best of Adelaide. Whether you're a foodie, an art lover, or someone who enjoys breathtaking views, this itinerary ensures you experience the city's highlights while keeping your schedule relaxed and enjoyable.
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Getting there
Adelaide is well-connected by air, road, and rail. Adelaide Airport (ADL) serves both domestic and international flights, and it's only 15 minutes from the city centre by car, taxi, or rideshare. If you're travelling from Melbourne, Sydney, or Perth, you can opt for direct flights, or for a scenic journey, take The Overland train from Melbourne or the Indian Pacific train from Sydney or Perth.
Day 1: Stop #1 - Adelaide Central Market
Begin your Adelaide adventure with a visit to Adelaide Central Market, a true foodie’s paradise and one of the largest undercover markets in the Southern Hemisphere.
Begin your Adelaide adventure with a visit to Adelaide Central Market, a true foodie’s paradise and one of the largest undercover markets in the Southern Hemisphere.
On your way to Adelaide Central Market, make sure to stop at The Big Fork in North Adelaide. This quirky oversized sculpture is a fun and lighthearted start to your day, perfect for a quick photo stop before heading to your next destination.
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Note: There’s something undeniably charming and nostalgic about the Big Things of Australia. These oversized sculptures—ranging from fruit and animals to everyday objects and playful gestures—are more than just quirky roadside attractions; they’re a unique part of Australia's cultural landscape. At Itineraries Redefined, we have a deep appreciation for these whimsical landmarks. Each one tells a story, sparks curiosity, and adds a sense of fun and discovery to every journey. These Big Things always bring a smile to our faces and make every road trip that little bit more memorable!
Established in 1869, this market is a bustling hub of fresh produce, gourmet delights, and cultural diversity. Take your time exploring the stalls filled with seasonal fruits, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and international delicacies. If you’re a coffee lover, this is the perfect spot to grab a cup from one of the many specialty cafés.
Established in 1869, this market is a bustling hub of fresh produce, gourmet delights, and cultural diversity. Take your time exploring the stalls filled with seasonal fruits, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and international delicacies. If you’re a coffee lover, this is the perfect spot to grab a cup from one of the many specialty cafés.
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Insider Tip: During the Christmas season, keep an eye out for the BIG Santa, which makes an appearance at the market, adding a festive touch to your visit. Enjoy a light breakfast before heading towards your next stop in the city.
Day 1: Stop #2 - Hindmarsh Square & Rundle Mall
Take a short walk towards Hindmarsh Square, where you’ll find the BIG Backyard Items at the playground. These oversized sculptures bring a playful element to your walk through the city, adding to the charm of Adelaide’s public spaces.
Take a short walk towards Hindmarsh Square, where you’ll find the BIG Backyard Items at the playground. These oversized sculptures bring a playful element to your walk through the city, adding to the charm of Adelaide’s public spaces.
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From here, continue towards Rundle Mall, the city’s premier shopping and cultural precinct. This pedestrian-only strip is lined with flagship stores, local boutiques, and vibrant street performers. Take your time browsing through shops, picking up souvenirs, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere of one of Adelaide’s busiest precincts.
While exploring, be sure to check out some of Rundle Mall’s iconic public art pieces, including:
- The BIG Pigeon, a nod to the city’s feathered residents.
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- Mall’s Balls, a towering stainless steel sculpture that’s become a beloved meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
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After a busy morning of exploring, enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the many eateries along Rundle Mall or nearby streets. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, a fresh salad, or something quick and delicious, you’ll find plenty of options to refuel for the afternoon ahead.
Day 1: Stop #3 - Discover Adelaide’s Street Art Trail
Adelaide is home to a vibrant and ever-evolving street art scene, with murals and installations bringing colour and creativity to the city’s laneways. Choose between the West End or East End section of the Adelaide Street Art Trail, both of which showcase incredible large-scale artworks from local and international artists. The murals you’ll encounter range from abstract designs to lifelike portraits, each telling a unique story about the city’s culture and heritage.
Adelaide is home to a vibrant and ever-evolving street art scene, with murals and installations bringing colour and creativity to the city’s laneways. Choose between the West End or East End section of the Adelaide Street Art Trail, both of which showcase incredible large-scale artworks from local and international artists. The murals you’ll encounter range from abstract designs to lifelike portraits, each telling a unique story about the city’s culture and heritage.
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If you’re taking the West End trail like we did, be sure to stop by the BIG Paint Spill atop Lion Arts Factory, a striking and unconventional art installation that adds an unexpected pop of colour to the urban landscape.
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Day 1: Stop #4 - Free Tram Ride & Explore Victoria Square
Before heading to your thrilling evening adventure, take advantage of Adelaide’s free tram service! The free zone (Yep, you don't need a metroCARD!) is the area between the South Terrace stop, Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Festival Plaza and the Botanic Gardens. Hop on a tram and make your way towards Victoria Square, a central landmark that’s home to historic buildings, water fountains, and open green spaces.
Before heading to your thrilling evening adventure, take advantage of Adelaide’s free tram service! The free zone (Yep, you don't need a metroCARD!) is the area between the South Terrace stop, Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Festival Plaza and the Botanic Gardens. Hop on a tram and make your way towards Victoria Square, a central landmark that’s home to historic buildings, water fountains, and open green spaces.
Depending on the time of year, the square hosts seasonal events, markets, and festivals, making it a lively hub of activity. It’s also an ideal place to take a short break before the final activity of the day.
Day 1: Last Stop - Adelaide Oval RoofClimb
Wrap up your first day in Adelaide with an unforgettable RoofClimb experience at Adelaide Oval. One of the most iconic stadiums in Australia, Adelaide Oval is not just for sports fans – it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, the River Torrens, and beyond.
This two-hour guided climb takes you to the very top of the stadium’s roof, where you’ll be harnessed in for safety while experiencing an exhilarating sky-high walk. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the stadium’s history, local legends, and the best viewpoints to admire the cityscape.
This two-hour guided climb takes you to the very top of the stadium’s roof, where you’ll be harnessed in for safety while experiencing an exhilarating sky-high walk. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the stadium’s history, local legends, and the best viewpoints to admire the cityscape.
If you are taking the RoofClimb Twilight session, you’ll witness a stunning sunset casting golden hues over Adelaide, making for a spectacular photo opportunity! Whether you're an adventure seeker or just looking for a unique way to experience the city, the Adelaide Oval RoofClimb is a must-do activity that will leave you with lasting memories.
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Day 2: Stop #1 - Glenelg Beach
Start your day with a refreshing visit to Glenelg Beach, one of Adelaide’s most popular coastal destinations. Located just a 25-minute drive from the city, Glenelg offers a stunning stretch of golden sand, gentle waves, and a lively foreshore precinct.
Start your day with a refreshing visit to Glenelg Beach, one of Adelaide’s most popular coastal destinations. Located just a 25-minute drive from the city, Glenelg offers a stunning stretch of golden sand, gentle waves, and a lively foreshore precinct.
Take a leisurely stroll along Jetty Road, lined with boutique shops and cafés, or walk along the Glenelg Jetty to enjoy panoramic views of the coast. If you’re an early riser, catching the sunrise over the marina at Holdfast Shores is a serene way to start your morning.
For those who love the water, consider taking a quick dolphin-spotting tour or simply enjoying a swim in the calm waters. Glenelg is also home to a number of waterfront eateries, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed brunch before heading inland to explore the next destination. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, a gourmet burger, or a healthy salad bowl, there’s something for every taste.
Day 2: Stop #2 - Hahndorf
Next, head towards Hahndorf, the oldest surviving German settlement in Australia, located just 30 minutes from Adelaide in the picturesque Adelaide Hills.
Next, head towards Hahndorf, the oldest surviving German settlement in Australia, located just 30 minutes from Adelaide in the picturesque Adelaide Hills.
Stepping into Hahndorf feels like being transported to a quaint European village, with timber-framed buildings, cobblestone paths, and a charming atmosphere. Spend the afternoon exploring the town’s art galleries, boutique stores, and traditional German bakeries. If you’re interested in history, visit the Hahndorf Academy, which offers insights into the town’s German heritage and showcases local artists. Don’t forget to stop by a leather workshop or handcrafted candle store for unique souvenirs.
Stepping into Hahndorf feels like being transported to a quaint European village, with timber-framed buildings, cobblestone paths, and a charming atmosphere. Spend the afternoon exploring the town’s art galleries, boutique stores, and traditional German bakeries. If you’re interested in history, visit the Hahndorf Academy, which offers insights into the town’s German heritage and showcases local artists. Don’t forget to stop by a leather workshop or handcrafted candle store for unique souvenirs.
Insider Tip: For those interested in nature, a short drive from the town leads to Beerenberg Farm, where you can pick your own strawberries (seasonal) and sample delicious jams and preserves!
Day 2: Stop #3 - The Big Things Trail
After soaking in the German charm of Hahndorf, set out on a quirky and fun Big Things Trail, a must-do for those who love unique roadside attractions. Do note that this isn’t just a runaround chasing oversized sculptures — it’s an experience that blends fun, nostalgia, and coastal charm. The Big Things Trail in Adelaide’s south takes you past quirky installations like the BIG Divers Snorkel & Mask in Port Noarlunga, the BIG Hills Hoist in Lonsdale, the BIG Peace Sign in Seacliff, and the BIG Hand “Hang Loose” in Brighton. But don’t rush — these stops are dotted along some of Adelaide’s most beautiful beaches. Take your time to explore the scenic coastlines, breathe in the salty sea air, and soak up the relaxed seaside atmosphere. Whether you’re posing with the Big Things or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the waves, this part of the day is as much about slowing down as it is about discovering something delightfully unexpected!
The BIG Divers Snorkel & Mask (Port Noarlunga)
Your first stop is Port Noarlunga, home to The BIG Divers Snorkel & Mask.
Your first stop is Port Noarlunga, home to The BIG Divers Snorkel & Mask.
Located along Port Noarlunga Esplanade, this oversized snorkel and mask is a tribute to the area’s thriving snorkelling and diving scene. Port Noarlunga Reef is one of the best spots in South Australia for underwater exploration, offering crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. If you have extra time, consider taking a short walk along the jetty for stunning coastal views before continuing your Big Things adventure.
Located along Port Noarlunga Esplanade, this oversized snorkel and mask is a tribute to the area’s thriving snorkelling and diving scene. Port Noarlunga Reef is one of the best spots in South Australia for underwater exploration, offering crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. If you have extra time, consider taking a short walk along the jetty for stunning coastal views before continuing your Big Things adventure.
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The BIG Hills Hoist (Lonsdale)
Next, drive to Lonsdale to see the BIG Hills Hoist, a giant tribute to the iconic Australian rotary clothesline. This landmark is a nod to one of the country’s most famous inventions and makes for a fun photo stop.
Next, drive to Lonsdale to see the BIG Hills Hoist, a giant tribute to the iconic Australian rotary clothesline. This landmark is a nod to one of the country’s most famous inventions and makes for a fun photo stop.
The BIG Peace Sign (Seacliff)
Head towards Seacliff, where you’ll find the BIG Peace Sign, a colourful sculpture that symbolises harmony and positivity. It’s located near Brighton & Seacliff Yacht Club, offering a relaxing seaside setting to take in the ocean views.
Head towards Seacliff, where you’ll find the BIG Peace Sign, a colourful sculpture that symbolises harmony and positivity. It’s located near Brighton & Seacliff Yacht Club, offering a relaxing seaside setting to take in the ocean views.
The BIG Hand "Hang Loose" (Brighton)
Your final stop on the Big Things Trail is The BIG Hand "Hang Loose" sculpture opposite to Brighton Surf Lifesaving Club. This fun and playful sculpture captures the laid-back coastal vibe of the area and is the perfect segue into your evening’s final highlight: sunset at Brighton Beach.
Your final stop on the Big Things Trail is The BIG Hand "Hang Loose" sculpture opposite to Brighton Surf Lifesaving Club. This fun and playful sculpture captures the laid-back coastal vibe of the area and is the perfect segue into your evening’s final highlight: sunset at Brighton Beach.
Day 2: Last Stop - Sunset at Brighton Beach
Wrap up your Adelaide adventure with a spectacular sunset at Brighton Beach, one of the most picturesque coastal spots near the city.
Wrap up your Adelaide adventure with a spectacular sunset at Brighton Beach, one of the most picturesque coastal spots near the city.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky explodes into hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a mesmerising view! Take a relaxing stroll along the Brighton Jetty, or find a cosy spot on the sand to unwind and reflect on your two days in Adelaide.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky explodes into hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a mesmerising view! Take a relaxing stroll along the Brighton Jetty, or find a cosy spot on the sand to unwind and reflect on your two days in Adelaide.
For those wanting to enjoy a relaxed dinner, the Brighton foreshore is lined with eateries offering delicious meals with stunning ocean views. Whether you opt for fresh seafood, classic pub fare, or a dessert to sweeten the evening, it’s the perfect way to end your journey!
Adelaide is a city that surprises and delights at every turn. Whether it’s indulging in delicious market finds, admiring vibrant street art, wandering through historic towns, or chasing sunsets along the coast, this two-day weekend itinerary ensures you experience the very best of what the city has to offer. With its relaxed pace and diverse attractions, Adelaide makes for a perfect getaway, leaving you with lasting memories and a desire to return.
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