Adelaide is a city that offers more than just its attractive streets and vibrant markets. Its proximity to world-class wine regions, stunning coastlines, and intriguing attractions makes it an excellent base for travelers seeking memorable experiences. We particularly love how wine lovers can choose between intimate cellar-door tastings with family-owned wineries or flexible hop-on-hop-off tours that let you craft your own day. The Adelaide: Barossa Premium Wine Tasting tour & Winery Lunch provides a refined, full-day experience exploring top wineries with expert guides. Meanwhile, the Discover Barossa: 4 Wine Tastings, Gourmet Lunch, and Hidden Gems is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed, value-driven day with delicious food and local chocolates. For a city-focused outing, the Adelaide Oval Stadium Guided Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Australia’s most iconic sports venues, complete with tales of cricket legends and scenic views. Whether you’re into wine, wildlife, or city culture, Adelaide’s diverse tour options won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
Adelaide’s tour scene is impressively varied. Wine enthusiasts can indulge in premium winery visits (Adelaide: Barossa Premium Wine Tasting tour & Winery Lunch) or explore multiple wineries at their own pace with hop-on-hop-off buses (Hop-On Hop-Off Barossa Valley Wine Region Tour). Those interested in city sights can explore the Adelaide Oval (guided tour) or cruise along the River Torrens (Popeye Sightseeing Cruise). For outdoor lovers, kayaking with dolphins (Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour) offers a chance to see wildlife up close. To help you decide, we’ve broken down each standout tour with what makes it special.
1. Adelaide: Barossa Premium Wine Tasting tour & Winery Lunch
Enjoy an award-winning full-day tour through the iconic Barossa Valley, with fabulous expert guides and intimate cellar-door tastings. The highlight is tasting at family-owned wineries like Rosenvale Vineyards and Turkey Flat Vineyards, surrounded by historic vineyards dating back to 1847. The tour includes a spectacular winery lunch and visits to stunning lookouts like Menglers Hill. The guides make the experience lively and informative, sharing stories that deepen your appreciation of the region’s wines. With a rating of 4.8/5 from over 1,300 reviews and a price of $118, it offers exceptional value for those wanting a comprehensive Barossa wine experience. This tour is ideal if you love wine, scenic views, and local stories. If you want a guided, all-inclusive day, this is a top choice. Bottom line: A well-rounded, immersive wine tour with a personal touch.
2. Discover Barossa: 4 Wine Tastings, Gourmet Lunch, and Hidden Gems
For around $112, this full-day tour offers a relaxed way to explore the Barossa’s best wineries without the fuss of logistics. Visiting four wineries, including Chateau Yaldara and Rusden Wines, you’ll sample premium wines and enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch at a winery. The tour also includes a stop at Browns Barossa Donuts, a favorite among locals for its indulgent treats, and a walk through Tanunda’s charming streets. The local guides make the day engaging, sharing insights into the region’s history and food culture. With a perfect 5-star rating from over 600 reviews, travelers praise its value and friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want a flexible, taste-focused day with some time to explore on their own. Bottom line: An easy, delicious way to sample multiple wineries at a great price.
3. Barossa Valley Cellar Door Small Group Tour
If you’d prefer a more personalized experience, this small-group tour is perfect. For $128, you visit iconic wineries such as Chateau Yaldara and Rusden Wines, with all tasting fees and lunch included. The tour emphasizes small-group intimacy and door-to-door transfers, taking away any stress of planning. The itinerary includes visits to heritage wineries and tasting at 1847 Wines, where you can savor the distinct flavors of the region. Passengers consistently compliment the knowledgeable guides and attention to detail. With a slight extension in duration (about 8.5 hours), it’s suited for wine lovers who want a more focused, in-depth experience. Bottom line: For a luxurious, tailored day, this is a top pick.
4. Hop-On Hop-Off Barossa Valley Wine Region Tour from Adelaide
This flexible day trip offers the freedom to explore the Barossa Valley at your own pace. For just $74, you hop on a bus with 10–15 stops, choosing wineries, cafes, and attractions like Maggie Beer’s farm shop or local bakeries. You can disembark at any stop, spend as much time as you like, then hop back on. It’s perfect if you prefer a self-guided exploration but with the convenience of organized transport. Many reviews highlight the informative driver and the ability to customize your itinerary. The route offers a mix of winery visits and village strolls, making it ideal for independent travelers. Bottom line: The best choice for flexible, budget-conscious sightseeing with plenty of options.
5. Adelaide Oval Stadium Guided Tour
For sports fans or curious city explorers, the Adelaide Oval guided tour provides a 90-minute behind-the-scenes look at this historic stadium. Priced at only $18, it offers a rich narrative of cricket legend Sir Donald Bradman and access to restricted areas such as the player’s pavilion and media center. The tour includes a visit to the Bradman Collection and scenic views from the top of the stadium. Visitors rave about the knowledgeable guides and the compact, engaging format. It’s perfect if you’re interested in sports, architecture, and city history. Bottom line: An affordable, fascinating glimpse into one of Australia’s most iconic sports venues.
6. McLaren Vale and Glenelg Wine Tasting and Sightseeing (Half-day Afternoon)
This half-day tour for $60 offers a taste of McLaren Vale’s renowned wines alongside a scenic stop in Glenelg. With just six hours, you visit Chapel Hill Winery and Haselgrove Wines, sampling wines and enjoying a cheese platter at one winery. The journey through the Onkaparinga Hills spotlights local wildlife like kangaroos and koalas. The tour ends with a sunset at Glenelg, where you can stroll along the jetty or relax before heading back. It’s praised for its informative driver and beautiful scenery. Best suited for those short on time but still wanting a quality wine experience combined with city views. Bottom line: Great value and a good introduction to McLaren Vale in a half day.
7. Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour Adelaide
Active travelers will love this 3-hour kayaking adventure at the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary. For $54, paddle through mangrove forests, with chances to spot playful dolphins passing through. The tour includes all gear, with a naturalist guide sharing insights into the local wildlife. No kayaking experience is necessary, making it accessible for beginners, yet still fun for the experienced. Travelers mention excellent guides and the up-close dolphin sightings as real highlights. It’s ideal if you want outdoor activity combined with wildlife watching. Bottom line: An engaging, family-friendly way to connect with nature on the water.
8. McLaren Vale Winery Small Group Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch
This full-day, intimate tour costs about $166, offering visits to top McLaren Vale wineries with tastings and a delicious included lunch. Traveling in a small group of 10 makes for a relaxed atmosphere. The itinerary features Maxwell Wines and Oliver’s Taranga Vineyards, where you can savor award-winning wines in stunning vineyard settings. The tour also passes through the Fleurieu Peninsula with scenic views. Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guide and delicious food and wine pairings. Suitable for those seeking a luxury experience with personalized attention. Bottom line: Perfect for wine aficionados wanting a comprehensive, elegant day.
9. From Adelaide: Hahndorf and Barossa Valley with Winery Lunch
Combine cultural exploration and wine tasting in one day with this 8-hour tour for $118. Visit the German village of Hahndorf, stroll its shops, then explore the Barossa Valley’s wineries with tastings at two renowned estates. The tour includes a lunch at Monkey Nut Cafe and offers a chance to sample local food and wine. The mix of cultural charm and premium wine makes it a favorite. Reviewers mention the friendly guides and well-paced itinerary. Ideal for travelers wanting a bit of both worlds—villages and vineyards. Bottom line: A balanced day blending culture, cuisine, and wine.
10. Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour
For a family-friendly outdoor adventure, this kayak tour combines wildlife and history. For $53, paddle for about three hours through mangroves, spotting dolphins and exploring abandoned ships at the graveyard. The guide provides kayaking lessons, making it accessible for beginners. The informative commentary enhances the experience, and many reviewers mention dolphin sightings and beautiful waterways. It’s perfect if you want active outdoor fun with wildlife and maritime stories. Bottom line: A fun, active tour that combines nature, history, and wildlife.
11. Adelaide Highlights, Hahndorf & McLaren Vale Wine Tasting and Sightseeing Tour
This comprehensive 8-hour tour at $92 offers a balanced mix of city sights, villages, and wine. Highlights include Mount Lofty, Hahndorf, and McLaren Vale, with time to explore each. The tour includes wine tastings at two wineries, a visit to Victoria Square, and panoramic views from Mount Lofty. Reviewers point out the friendly driver and well-organized itinerary. Suitable for travelers who want diverse experiences in one day. Bottom line: An efficient, well-rounded overview perfect for first-timers.
12. Adelaide: River Torrens Popeye Sightseeing Cruise
See Adelaide from a different perspective aboard this heritage boat cruise for just $18. The 45-minute cruise offers engaging commentary and scenic river views, passing through Botanic Gardens and Adelaide Zoo. It’s highly rated for its informative guides and relaxing atmosphere. Perfect if you’re interested in city sights from the water or want a short, leisurely activity. Many reviewers mention the friendly crew and good value. Bottom line: A charming, affordable way to enjoy Adelaide’s riverscape.
13. Adelaide Central Market Discovery Tour
Food lovers shouldn’t miss this guided tour of Adelaide’s famous market for $66.44. Walk through one of the largest food markets in the southern hemisphere, sampling local produce, cheese, and baked goods. The guide shares stories of migration and food culture, making it both tasty and educational. Reviewers highlight the delicious samples and friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who want an authentic, interactive food experience in the heart of the city. Bottom line: A lively, flavorful introduction to Adelaide’s culinary scene.
14. RoofClimb Adelaide Oval Experience
For a thrilling city adventure, this roof climb at the Adelaide Oval costs around $81. It includes a safety briefing, climbing into a harness, and walking across the roof with panoramic views of the city and stadium. Many describe it as a unique highlight, especially if you’re into heights and sports. The photo package and certificate add a nice touch. It’s popular among adventure seekers and sports fans. Bottom line: An unforgettable, scenic experience for those seeking a high-altitude thrill.
15. Small Group Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf Hideaway Tour from Adelaide
This full-day culinary tour for $166 offers a delicious mix of food tastings, scenic views from Mount Lofty, and a hearty German-style lunch in Hahndorf. The tour visits Beerenberg Farm and Howard Vineyard, with plenty of opportunities to sample cheese, chocolate, and wine. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and reviews mention friendly guides and well-chosen stops. Best suited for foodies and those who enjoy countryside scenery. Bottom line: A flavorful, scenic adventure perfect for a leisurely day.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting your ideal Adelaide experience, consider your budget, interests, and travel style. For wine connoisseurs, the Adelaide: Barossa Premium Wine Tasting tour & Winery Lunch offers a comprehensive, guided day, while the hop-on-hop-off (Tour Link) provides more flexibility. Outdoor adventurers can’t go wrong with the Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour, perfect for wildlife lovers, or the RoofClimb for a high-up city view. If you’re more into city culture, the Adelaide Oval tour or river cruise are ideal. For foodies, the Central Market Discovery Tour is a must. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons or for small-group tours.
Final Thoughts
Adelaide offers a variety of engaging tours ensuring every traveler finds something special. Whether you want to sample the finest wines in the Barossa, explore the city from above, or paddle alongside dolphins, the options are plentiful. We recommend the comprehensive wine tours for connoisseurs or the adventure-filled kayak excursions for outdoor lovers. For a relaxing city experience, the River Torrens cruise or stadium tour are excellent choices. No matter your interests, planning ahead will help you make the most of your trip. Book early, and enjoy every moment exploring this vibrant part of Australia.