Adelaide
South Australia, Australia
Daily Budget
~A$74
~US$50 · per day
Best Months
Climate
Shoulder Season
Vibe
Budget-friendly
Overview
Adelaide is South Australia's underrated capital — a compact, walkable city known for its festivals, wine regions, and a food scene that punches above its weight. It flies under the radar compared to Sydney and Melbourne, which means fewer crowds and lower prices. Surrounded by world-class wine regions (Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills) and with Kangaroo-Island a short ferry ride away, Adelaide is both a destination and a launchpad.
Editor's Pick
Adelaide stands out for: Significantly cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne with genuine Australian experiences; Adelaide Fringe (February–March) is the largest open-access arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere; Gateway to incredible wine regions with free cellar door tastings.
Things to Do
View all 9 activitiesAttend Adelaide Fringe in February–March
Attend Adelaide Fringe in February–March — hundreds of free and cheap shows across the city
Attend Adelaide Fringe in February–March — hundreds of free and cheap shows across the city
Attend Adelaide Fringe in February–March — hundreds of free and cheap shows across the city
Top Hostels
View all 4 hostels
Hostels
4 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
9 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Itineraries featuring Adelaide
1 route passing through Adelaide
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Adelaide?
- Budget around A$74 AUD (~US$50) per day in Adelaide, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Adelaide?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Adelaide are Sep, Oct, Nov, Mar, Apr, May, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Adelaide?
- Top-rated hostels in Adelaide include Base Camp Hostel, Adelaide Backpackers & Travellers Inn, Sunny's Adelaide Backpackers. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from A$52 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Adelaide?
- Must-do activities in Adelaide include Attend Adelaide Fringe in February–March, Attend Adelaide Fringe in February–March — hundreds of free and cheap shows across the city, Day trip to the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale for free wine tastings. There are 9 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
