Adelaide, South Australia’s vibrant capital, blends coastal views, buzzing food culture and rich Kaurna heritage into a city that’s both stylish and welcoming. Hotels here really set the tone for your trip: think sleek luxury stays along North Terrace, quirky design gems tucked into the East End, or budget-friendly spots near lively Rundle Mall. Families love the leafy suburbs with spacious, relaxed hotels, while couples can opt for chic boutique boltholes downtown.

Adelaide is a city where culture, nature, and good food come together effortlessly. Visitors can explore its rich heritage at the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australia Museum, or on a walking tour, then dive into its vibrant street art and music scene. The bustling Central Market tempts food lovers with fresh produce, while the Botanic Gardens and surrounding parklands offer peaceful green escapes. Beyond the city, the Adelaide Hills provide scenic trails, Clare Valley and McLaren Vale boast world-class wines, and the coastline delivers long sandy beaches perfect for swimming and water sports. Time your visit for February or March and you’ll catch the Adelaide Festival, when the city buzzes with performances and creativity.

The Best Places to Stay in Adelaide

For City Style

• Soho Hotel is a smart city pad with 29 guest rooms close to East End Park. Interiors are done in crisp white and grey tones, with all the mod-cons. The best have spa tubs and private balconies. Guests share access to a rooftop pool with expansive city views. A contemporary bolthole for business or leisure.
• Oval Hotel offers a seriously special stay in a stylish modern building, wrapped around the iconic Adelaide Oval. Swish rooms and suites face the city's leafy parkland and the cathedral. The Five Regions Restaurant is an Adelaide favourite, serving mouth-watering gourmet cuisine and collaborating with South Australian wineries.
• Mayfair Hotel, tucked behind a landmark 1930s façade, has sophisticated rooms and suites with a classic contemporary feel. Decorated in cream and grey tones, this feels like a very grown-up hotel. The Mayflower Restaurant highlights top regional produce, and the Hennessy Bar is a cracking starting point for an evening out.
• The Playford Hotel is an elegant Art Nouveau hotel with glamorous rooms and suites featuring organic shapes and soft pastel shades. Think velvet-upholstered armchairs, brass accents and dark marble bathrooms, perfect for a romantic city break. The spa is superb.

For Art Lovers

• The Watson, in the lively Walkerville district, showcases the work of celebrated Aboriginal artist Yannima Tommy Watson. Airy suites and studios have white-painted walls and soothing earthy tones, allowing the art to take centre stage. Guided art tours and talks will delight keen culture aficionados.

For an Intimate Hideaway

• The Fire Station Inn offers three uniquely appointed self-catering apartments in a converted 19th-century fire station. Pick this place for its fascinating history and unusual design, complete with red-and-white interiors and fire engines in spacious rooms. An intimate family favourite.
• Athelney Cottage B&B also has three guest spaces. Cosy self-contained cottages with wood burning stoves and antique furnishings, these are wonderful for romantic couples or groups of friends seeking additional privacy. Charming and well-located, close to the city's parklands.

For a Seaside Stay

• Largs Pier Hotel is an iconic, 130-year-old landmark, facing the ocean on Largs Bay. 30 minutes from central Adelaide, it's a brilliant base for heritage buffs, keen beachgoers and music fans, who will adore the live gigs and retro feel. The likes of AC/DC & Cold Chisel have played at the bar!

For Great Value

• The Franklin has just seven quirky rooms, each with moody, dark-painted walls and an industrial feel. Small and friendly, the hotel is set around a buzzy pub, where you can expect cracking craft ales, live music and sports broadcasts. An affordable choice in a great location with a sociable atmosphere.
• Marion Hotel is a hip, contemporary spot in south-western Adelaide. Light-filled rooms have an industrial edge, whilst indulgent bathrooms have big, sink-into tubs. The real appeal is the convivial feel, with acoustic sessions, regular events and a lively bar. Well-priced and great for trips with friends.

For an Apartment or Holiday Villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Adelaide International Airport, just under 6km from the city. Catch an airport shuttle, take a taxi or speak to your hotel in advance about arranging an airport pick-up. Alternatively, catch a train to Adelaide with rail links across Australia including to Melbourne and Sydney.
• South Australia is wonderful for a road trip, and Adelaide makes an excellent starting point! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit during the summer, spring or autumn months for sunshine and pleasant temperatures. Winters (June to August) are cool and can be rainy.

Still Not Sure?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Kangaroo Island,
• Alternatively, expand your search to include all our recommendations for the best places to stay in South Australia,
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.