Updated 2025: This post was first written by Emma Brown back in 2017. We've given it a 2025 refresh with new tips and local insights from the Backpackers World team.
Adelaide tends to fly under the radar compared to Sydney or Melbourne, and honestly, that’s half the charm. It’s laid-back, easy to get around, and packed with surprises. Whether you’re wandering the laneways for hidden bars, taking a cheeky wine tour in the Hills, or hopping a tram to Glenelg Beach, Adelaide knows how to punch above its weight.
But like any new place, there are a few local quirks that are worth knowing before you rock up. This isn’t your standard list of “Dos and Don’ts” - this is the stuff that actually matters when you're backpacking South Australia’s capital. No fluff, no filler. Just real tips from real travellers.
Let’s dive into some Dos and Don’ts so you can make the most of your time in Adelaide - or as the locals affectionately call it, Radelaide. The nickname’s a bit tongue-in-cheek, but it fits. Once written off as sleepy, Adelaide has quietly turned into one of Australia’s most underrated cities: think pop-up bars, live music, world-class wine, and no shortage of weird side trips. Whether you're staying a weekend or kicking off a longer South Australia loop, it pays to get the local lowdown first.
Make a digital copy of your passport and keep the original safely hidden and locked in your room. One thing I like to do on my travels is to keep my debit and credit cards separately, just in case the worst happens - if one goes missing, you’ve got backup. Taking care of your safety should be on the top of your list, no matter which country you’re traveling in, as crowded places attract pickpockets, especially when tourists are involved.
Those red and yellow flags at the beach? They’re not just for show -they mark the areas patrolled by lifeguards and safest for swimming. Aussie beaches can have strong rips, rough surf, and even the occasional jellyfish. Always check for warning signs and stick to flagged areas. Better safe than swept out to sea.
Hopefully you won’t need it, but just in case - Australia’s emergency number is 000. That’ll connect you to police, fire, or ambulance services. Keep it saved in your phone, and maybe jot it down somewhere too, just in case your battery dies at the wrong time.
Don’t hire cabs from unlicensed operators. Avoid "gypsy cabs" - illegal cabs (unmarked vehicles) offering rides for cash. They’re unregulated and can be risky. Stick to official taxis, rideshare apps like Uber or Ola, or public transport, especially late at night.
It’s always smart to land with a bit of cash in your wallet. Exchange to Australian Dollars before you fly if the rates are better, or use a reputable money changer once you arrive. Airport ATMs are an option too, just don’t solely rely that they will have cash to dispense as they’re often busy, or occasionally out of service.
This one’s simple - no snacking, sipping, or smoking on public transport - trams, buses, or public buildings and most stores. Just enjoy Adelaide following this basic rule for most places!
Australians take their sports very seriously - Footy isn’t just a game here, it’s practically a religion. Learn the basics of AFL (or at least the name of the local team: the Crows or the Power, depending on which pub you walk into). It’s a great convo starter and an easy way to make mates.
Australians drive on the left hand side of the road, and that rule spills over to foot traffic too. On footpaths, stairs, and escalators, stick to the left - especially if you’re standing still. Nothing gets locals grumpy faster than blocked walkways during the morning coffee rush.
Look, we said eight - but Adelaide had other ideas. Once you’ve mastered the basics, here are a few bonus tips to really help you blend in, level up your trip, and avoid looking like a total tourist (no offence).
Adelaide isn’t called the Festival City for nothing. Depending on when you visit, you might stumble into Fringe, WOMADelaide, or Illuminate Adelaide. Many events offer free shows, live music, or art installations – perfect for backpackers on a budget.
If you’re visiting in summer, be prepared - Adelaide’s dry heat can be brutal. Temps regularly hit 40°C+ in January and February. Always carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan hikes or beach trips early in the morning or late arvo.
Some of Adelaide’s best eats and bars are in suburbs like Norwood, Unley, and Henley Beach. The tram and bus network makes it easy to get around, and you’ll get a more local feel than sticking to Rundle Mall and North Terrace.
South Australia is wine country - you’re less than an hour from world-famous regions like the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. But if you’re not heading out of town, Adelaide’s got plenty of wine bars and craft breweries serving up the goods.
Adelaide might not shout the loudest, but that’s exactly why it’s such a gem. It’s the kind of place that rewards curiosity - the more you explore, the better it gets. From wine-soaked weekends in the Hills to street eats, quirky day trips and golden sunsets at Glenelg, Radelaide knows how to leave a mark. Follow these dos and don’ts, chuck in a few extras, and you’ll be living like a local in no time.
Adelaide is one of the easiest Aussie cities to navigate without a car. The CBD is compact and walkable, but when your feet give up (and they will), you’ve got a few solid transport options:
Trams: The best bit? The city loop is free between the Entertainment Centre and South Terrace. Hop on, hop off - no wallet required.
Metro Cards: If you’re heading further afield (like to Glenelg or Henley Beach), grab a MetroCard and preload it with credit. Way cheaper than buying paper tickets.
Bikes & Scooters: Lime scooters and e-bikes are everywhere, and they’re perfect for lazy beach days or quick rides through the parklands.
One quick tip: services drop off hard late at night, especially midweek. If you're planning a big one, check the timetable (or budget for an Uber).
You don’t need fine dining to eat well in Adelaide. The city punches above its weight when it comes to cheap eats, and you’ll find everything from killer bánh mì to late-night dumplings if you know where to look.
Central Market food court – Skip the cafes and go straight to the market’s multicultural food stalls. Big flavour, small prices.
Viet-nam & Chinatown – Gouger Street is home to some of Adelaide’s best budget-friendly Asian food. Try a $10 pho or grab some pork buns to go.
Sunny’s Pizza – Slightly hipster, always buzzing, and actually worth the hype. Great for a cheap bite and a slice of local nightlife.
Bakery runs – Hit up Abbots and Kinney or Boulangerie 113 for the best pies and pastries if you’re running on caffeine and carbs.
Keep an eye out for Uni student specials - lots of places near the East End or North Terrace drop their prices midweek.
Backpacking on a budget? No stress - there’s heaps to do here without dropping a cent.
Wander the Botanic Gardens – Shady, peaceful, and right in the middle of the city. Ideal nap territory too.
Check out the Art Gallery of SA – Free entry and surprisingly edgy exhibitions. Bonus: air-con in summer.
St Kilda Adventure Playground – If you want to relive your chaotic inner child (or just climb a giant castle slide).
Museum hop on North Terrace – Everything from Aboriginal culture to giant squid at the SA Museum, and all free.
Hike Morialta Falls – A short bus ride out and you're in waterfall and wildlife territory, with bonus koala sightings if you’re lucky.
If you’ve got a spare day and a bit of go in the budget, these side trips are worth the effort:
Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale – Wine tasting days that start civilised and end… less so. Bus tours are easy and surprisingly cheap with a group.
Hahndorf – A weirdly German town in the hills with strudel, bratwurst, and great views. The bus from the city only takes an hour.
Port Willunga – Insta-worthy beach with clicliffs, caves, and calm swimming spots. Pack snacks and make a full beach day of it.
Cleland Wildlife Park – Get up close with kangaroos, emus, and yes - you can cuddle a koala. Budget for entry ($30-ish), but worth it.
The Giant Rocking Horse – It's… a giant rocking horse. There’s also a wildlife park, a toy factory, and it’s delightfully strange.
Take a look through our full range of Adelaide tours, from half day wine tasting in Barossa valley to multi day tours starting or ending in Adelaide.
Related Articles
