Adelaide isn’t just about its lively festivals and beautiful beaches; it also offers some of the most engaging historical tours in Australia. What makes Adelaide special for history lovers is its layered past — from First Nations cultures to colonial architecture and pioneering wine estates. We’re especially fond of experiences like the Private Luxury Tour: Penfolds Estate Heritage & Hills Picnic for its intimate look at Australia’s winemaking heritage, and the Adelaide City and First Nations Cultural tour which offers a deep dive into the Indigenous perspective. These tours give a real sense of the land’s stories, making your visit more meaningful.
Whether you’re interested in aboriginal culture, city history, or wine heritage, Adelaide has something for every history enthusiast. Below, we’ve rounded up the best options, each with its own unique flavor and focus.
1. 7 Day Adelaide to Uluru Adventure and Cultural Tour
At number 1, this seven-day adventure takes you through Australia’s iconic outback landscapes, combining wilderness exploration with Aboriginal cultural insights. It’s more than just sightseeing — you’ll hike ancient gorges, explore Coober Pedy’s underground tunnels, and experience the Red Centre’s surreal desert plains. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 39 reviews, and costs about $1,047.52 per person.
What makes this tour special is its focus on authentic indigenous experiences and immersive wilderness adventures. Staying in camping accommodations adds to the feeling of truly being part of the landscape. Highlights include walking through the Flinders Ranges, visiting the underground town of Coober Pedy, and engaging with Aboriginal guides. It’s a good pick for travelers who want to combine adventure with cultural discovery and don’t mind a bit of roughing it.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous souls looking for a comprehensive outback experience that emphasizes indigenous culture and rugged landscapes.
2. McLaren Vale & Historic Hahndorf Wine Tour
Number 2 on our list focuses on South Australia’s famous wine regions and historic towns. For about $200.25, this 8-hour tour combines visits to the d’Arenberg Cube — with its whimsical, Willy Wonka-inspired rooms — and Mollydooker Winery, where you’ll taste bold, acclaimed wines.
The highlight for many is the stop at Hahndorf, a charming German-inspired village. You’ll have two hours to explore its cafes, boutique shops, and local food options, making it an ideal mix of culinary delights and cultural history. The tour also includes a visit to Beerenberg Strawberry Farm, which offers a taste of family-run South Australian produce.
This tour is well-suited for wine lovers and those wanting a relaxed day exploring historic towns. The reviews mention “a great introduction to South Australia” and “very enjoyable,” pointing to its popularity among visitors who want a bit of everything.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, value-for-money option for wine enthusiasts and history admirers alike.
3. Adelaide City and First Nations Cultural tour
This two-hour guided tour costs just $98 and offers a deep look at Adelaide’s Indigenous roots. Led by local guides from Radelaide Tours and Southern Cultural Immersion, you’ll walk through the Botanic Gardens and learn about Kaurna language, plants, and cultural traditions.
The tour is particularly rich in First Nations-led insights, including stories and knowledge shared directly by Indigenous guides. It’s ideal for those interested in a more authentic and respectful understanding of Aboriginal culture and how it interweaves with Adelaide’s urban landscape.
Guests appreciate the personal touch and the rare opportunity to hear stories from the community. If you want a meaningful, compact experience that broadens your understanding of Adelaide’s original inhabitants, this tour delivers in spades.
Bottom Line: A concise, impactful introduction to Kaurna culture and urban indigenous history.
4. Private Luxury Tour: Penfolds Estate Heritage & Hills Picnic
For about $303.60 per person, this private luxury experience offers a personalized day exploring Penfolds’ historic Magill Estate. The journey starts with a guided heritage tour of the estate, where you learn about Australia’s finest winemaking legacy. Afterward, a scenic drive through the Adelaide Hills leads to Cobb’s Hill Estate, where a private picnic with estate-grown wines makes the experience truly special.
This tour is perfect for couples or those celebrating a special occasion, thanks to its intimate setting and attention to detail. Reviews highlight how the day’s “unforgettable” and the experience “feels like a storybook.” It balances history, scenic beauty, and gourmet indulgence in one elegant package.
Bottom Line: Ideal for lovers and couples seeking a refined, personalized wine and cultural experience.
5. Adelaide: Guided Cultural Tour of Adelaide Botanic Garden
This one-hour guided tour at the stunning Adelaide Botanic Garden costs just $40. Led by a knowledgeable guide, it explores the traditional significance of the native plants on Kaurna Country and the garden’s role in the city’s development.
It’s a perfect quick stop for history and nature lovers interested in Indigenous plant use and cultural stories. The garden’s 50 hectares showcase a wide diversity of native flora, making it much more than a typical botanical visit. Reviews praise the guide’s clarity and the “spectacular” plants.
Bottom Line: A brief, educational walk that adds cultural depth to your time in Adelaide.
$40 per person
6. From Adelaide Cruise Ship to McLaren Vale and Hahndorf
This 8-hour tour at approximately $213.83 is designed for cruise passengers eager to see South Australia’s wine country and historic town. It starts at the striking d’Arenberg Cube, continues with tasting at Mollydooker Winery, and ends with free time in the picturesque Hahndorf.
The tour offers a great blend of gourmet wine experiences and cultural exploration, with highlights including the interactive d’Arenberg Cube and the charming streets of Hahndorf. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable pace.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers wanting to maximize their day with a balanced mix of wine, scenery, and heritage.
$213.83 per person
7. Guided Warriparinga Cultural and Historical Tour
On this one-hour tour, for just over $41, you’ll explore the Warriparinga Wetlands with a First Nations guide, learning about the Tjilbruke Dreamtime Story and the significance of the land to the Kaurna people.
It offers an intimate view of Aboriginal history and connection to the land, with insights into traditional practices, artefacts, and native plants. The immersive nature of the walk makes it particularly meaningful.
Guests value this as “a great introduction to Kaurna culture,” with the guide sharing stories and knowledge that deepen your understanding of Adelaide’s original inhabitants.
Bottom Line: An accessible, culturally rich experience ideal for those interested in indigenous connections and ecological stories.
$41.41 per person
8. From Adelaide: Cuddle a Koala and Historic Hahndorf Tour
This full-day tour for about $228 combines family fun with history. You’ll visit Mount Lofty Summit for spectacular city views, cuddle a koala, and walk through the German-inspired streets of Hahndorf.
It’s a great choice for families or those wanting a mix of wildlife, scenic views, and cultural history. The highlight is the opportunity to hold a koala — a memorable experience for all ages. Reviews indicate the tour offers a full, fun-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families and travelers wanting an all-in-one, engaging day.
9. Adelaide: Guided Warriparinga Cultural and Historical Tour (Repeated)
This is a repeat of tour #7, emphasizing how significant Warriparinga is for understanding Kaurna culture. It remains a powerful, immersive experience that walks you through the wetlands with an Indigenous guide.
$41.41 per person
10. Family Private Walking Tour of Adelaide’s Rich History
For around $470.76 per person, this private, family-focused tour offers a personalized exploration of Adelaide’s landmarks. Starting at the Botanic Garden, then heading to North Terrace and Rundle Mall, it covers cultural, historic, and modern highlights.
It’s ideal for families wanting a flexible, in-depth experience with an intimate guide. The tour’s slow pace and focus on storytelling make it suitable for children and adults alike. While reviews are not yet available, the tailored approach promises an engaging adventure.
Bottom Line: Great for families or groups who want a custom, private introduction to Adelaide’s urban history and culture.
$470.76 per person
11. McLaren Vale and Historic Hahndorf Wine Tour
This 8-hour tour at about $195 explores South Australia’s premium wineries and historic towns. It includes a visit to the d’Arenberg Cube, tastings at Sidewood Cellar Door in Hahndorf, and scenic views of the Adelaide Hills.
The tour is perfect for wine lovers who want to see more of Hahndorf’s cultural charm. It’s praised for its well-paced itinerary and memorable wine tastings, making it ideal for those who enjoy both cultural and culinary experiences.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wine connoisseurs who also appreciate history and scenic villages.
$195 per person
12. Guided Aboriginal Cultural Tour of Adelaide City
This one-hour tour costs just over $41 and offers a First Nations perspective on Adelaide’s city landmarks. Led by Indigenous guides, it focuses on colonial and indigenous stories, visiting sites of cultural significance.
Ideal for those wanting a deep contextual understanding of Adelaide’s history from an Aboriginal viewpoint, it complements more general city tours. The focus on stories, artefacts, and traditional knowledge makes it both educational and respectful.
Bottom Line: Suitable for history enthusiasts eager to understand Adelaide’s Indigenous and colonial narratives.
$41.16 per person
13. Guided Aboriginal Cultural Tour of Adelaide Botanic Garden
This tour offers a one-hour walk through the Adelaide Botanic Garden, focusing on native plants and their traditional uses. Led by a First Nations guide, it emphasizes indigenous knowledge and ecology.
It’s perfect for visitors interested in botany, culture, and sustainable practices. The garden’s native flora and the guide’s insights provide a meaningful connection to Kaurna traditions.
Bottom Line: The best quick cultural tour for nature lovers wanting to learn about Aboriginal plant use.
$41.16 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Adelaide Cultural or Historical Tour
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests and timing. For a comprehensive adventure combining wilderness and indigenous culture, the 7 Day Adelaide to Uluru Adventure is unmatched. If a luxury wine experience appeals, the Penfolds Heritage & Hills Picnic offers exclusivity and fine dining.
For those with limited time, the Adelaide City and First Nations Cultural Tour and Warriparinga Tours provide meaningful insights in just a couple of hours. Families or groups seeking a more private experience might consider the Family Private Walking Tour or the Koala and Hahndorf Tour.
Consider your budget, time availability, fitness level, and interest in indigenous culture, wine, or city history when selecting a tour. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular experiences like wine tours and private adventures.
Final Thoughts
From immersive cultural walks to luxury wine tastings and outback expeditions, Adelaide offers a fascinating array of historical tours that cater to different tastes and schedules. For those seeking a deep dive into First Nations heritage, tours like the Warriparinga Cultural Walk and the Adelaide City Indigenous tour are top choices. If your focus is more on wine and colonial history, options like the McLaren Vale & Hahndorf Wine Tour or the Penfolds luxury experience will satisfy.
No matter your interest, booking early ensures you secure a spot for these popular and enriching experiences. Adelaide’s rich tapestry of stories is waiting — all you need to do is choose your adventure.