Adelaide’s 10 Top Tours & Experiences

Adelaide is a city that’s easy to love for its mix of vibrant city life, nearby wine country, and outdoor adventures. What truly sets it apart are its accessible, well-curated experiences that make exploring South Australia’s treasures straightforward and fun. For example, the Adelaide: Barossa Premium Wine Tasting tour & Winery Lunch offers a luxurious day immersed in family-owned wineries and spectacular vineyard views, perfect for wine lovers looking for a personalized touch. Or, if you’re after a more relaxed and flexible day, the Barossa Valley Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tour lets you craft your own adventure among 10–15 stops – a great choice for independent explorers. Whether you’re into food, wildlife, or history, Adelaide has a tour that makes each experience authentic and memorable.

Quick Overview

In this guide, we’ve gathered a diverse lineup of tours: from premium wine tastings and small-group vineyard visits to adventure kayaking and stadium stadiums. Each offers a different way to enjoy what Adelaide and its surrounding regions have to offer, such as the charming Hahndorf village or the McLaren Vale wine region. Check out these highlights and find the perfect fit for your trip.

1. Adelaide: Barossa Premium Wine Tasting tour & Winery Lunch

Enjoy an award-winning Premium Barossa wine tasting tour that combines expert guides, intimate cellar-door tastings, and a beautiful winery lunch. This 8-hour adventure takes you through iconic family-owned wineries like Rosenvale Vineyards and Turkey Flat Vineyards, where history and passion shine through every sip. The Rosenvale Crafted Tour is exclusive to Taste the Barossa, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. The tour also includes spectacular sights like Menglers Hill lookout and the historic town of Tanunda. Guests praise the guides for their energy and knowledge, with reviews averaging 4.8/5. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts who love personalized service and scenic vineyard walks. Expect a day filled with rich flavors, stunning scenery, and a relaxed vibe.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you’re after an indulgent, all-encompassing experience, especially if you appreciate family-owned wineries and picturesque views.

2. Discover Barossa: 4 Wine Tastings, Gourmet Lunch, and Hidden Gems

Rated a perfect 5.0/5 with over a thousand reviews, this tour is adored for its seamless, stress-free approach to exploring the Barossa Valley. For around $121 per person, you get the luxury of visiting four premium wineries—like Chateau Yaldara, a historic landmark established in 1947—and enjoying a gourmet lunch at one of the region’s top wineries. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so there’s no need to worry about driving. Visitors highlight the relaxed pace and the chance to sample some of Australia’s best wines while exploring Tanunda’s charming streets, including the popular Browns Barossa Donuts and Darling’s Food with Passion Café. Guides like Jerry make the experience lively and informative, making this a perfect choice for foodies and wine lovers alike.

Bottom Line: For a well-organized, value-packed day that mixes wine, food, and local charm, this tour hits the mark.

3. Barossa Valley Cellar Door Small Group Tour

With a 5-star rating from over 500 reviews, this small-group tour is ideal for those who want a more intimate experience. For about $161, you’ll enjoy door-to-door transfers, included tasting fees, and a delicious lunch. The tour stops at renowned wineries such as Rusden Wines, known for traditional methods and exquisite blends, and Chateau Tanunda, the birthplace of the region’s wine history. The personalized service allows guests to ask plenty of questions and explore the vineyards at a relaxed pace. The guide’s extensive knowledge enriches the journey, making it more than just wine tasting — it’s insight into the region’s heritage. Reviews mention the fantastic driver and friendly atmosphere.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a premium, small-group experience with all logistics handled.

4. Barossa Valley Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tour

Rated 5/5 from 418 reviews, this flexible hop-on hop-off tour offers a laid-back way to explore around four wineries out of 10–15 options. For $71.72, you start in Adelaide and travel through the picturesque vineyards at your own pace. You can disembark at spots like Maggie Beer’s farm or Yalumba, then hop back on the next bus. It’s ideal if you want to customize your day without the rigidity of scheduled tours. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly driver Laurie and the freedom to choose their stops. It’s perfect for independent travelers who like a bit of spontaneity and don’t mind planning their own wine adventure.

Bottom Line: A cost-effective, flexible choice if you prefer to set your own pace and visit a handful of favorite spots.

5. Adelaide Oval Stadium Guided Tour

Rated 4.8/5 from 740 reviews, this 1.5-hour stadium tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of Adelaide’s most iconic venues. You’ll access restricted areas, learn about the stadium’s history, and see the famous Bradman Collection. The guides bring plenty of stories from cricket, Australian rules football, and stadium events. It’s a highlight for sports fans or anyone interested in local landmarks. The tour is well-paced, and reviews mention the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see areas normally off-limits.

Bottom Line: For sports enthusiasts or history buffs, this is a quick but memorable peek into Adelaide’s sporting scene.

6. McLaren Vale and Glenelg Wine Tasting and Sightseeing (Half-day Afternoon)

Rated 5/5 from 369 reviews, this half-day tour combines wine tasting with a scenic drive through the McLaren Vale region. For $63.83, visit Chapel Hill Winery and Haselgrove Wines, both known for their quality and innovation. Afterward, enjoy a sunset stroll at Glenelg, a lively seaside suburb. Guests love the mix of wine and coastal views, as well as the relaxed pace. The driver, who is also a guide, shares local insights about wildlife like kangaroos and koalas, making it a well-rounded experience for those short on time but wanting a taste of the region’s best.

Bottom Line: A great choice if you seek a relaxed afternoon with wine, wildlife, and sunset views.

7. Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour Adelaide

Rated 4.5/5 with over 350 reviews, this kayaking tour offers a chance to paddle through mangrove forests and spot Port River dolphins. For $56.66, you get gear and a waterproof bag, making it accessible for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. The tour lasts about three hours, with guides sharing knowledge about local wildlife and the habitat. Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to see dolphins up close — even if some don’t always make an appearance. It’s perfect for active travelers craving outdoor adventure in a natural setting.

Bottom Line: Ideal if you want an active, wildlife-focused experience and enjoy being on the water.

8. McLaren Vale Winery Small Group Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch

Rated 5/5 from 315 reviews, this full-day wine tour visits top wineries like Maxwell and Haselgrove, with included tastings and a hearty lunch. For $175.72, you get the convenience of hotel pickup and a small-group setting for personalized attention. Guests love the variety of wineries, the stunning scenery of the Fleurieu Peninsula, and the relaxed pace. The guide, who is both knowledgeable and friendly, makes the experience enjoyable from start to finish. The trip is especially suited for serious wine lovers who want to explore multiple wineries in one day without the hassle of driving.

Bottom Line: A top pick for wine aficionados wanting a comprehensive, all-inclusive day.

9. From Adelaide: Hahndorf and Barossa Valley with Winery Lunch

Rated 4.6/5 from 854 reviews, this 8-hour tour combines Hahndorf’s German charm with the Barossa Valley’s wineries. You’ll visit the village of Hahndorf, sample local fare, and enjoy wine tastings at two wineries. The tour includes a nice balance of sightseeing and tasting, making it suitable for those wanting a mix of cultural and culinary experiences. Reviewers praise the guide’s friendliness and the scenic stops, including the chance to browse shops in Hahndorf. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a diverse day with plenty of photo opportunities.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those looking for a blend of culture, food, and wine in a single day.

10. Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour

Rated 5/5 from 275 reviews, this kayaking experience combines dolphin watching with exploring shipwrecks. For $55.94, you paddle through calm waters and mangroves, with chances to see dolphins and shipwrecks. Guides share insights about local wildlife and history, making it both educational and fun. Many reviewers mention the close-up dolphin sightings and the unique feel of paddling through shipwrecks. It suits active travelers interested in wildlife and maritime history.

Bottom Line: An engaging outdoor activity for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting among these options, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. If wine is your top priority, the Adelaide: Barossa Premium Wine Tasting tour & Winery Lunch and the McLaren Vale Winery Small Group Tour are excellent choices for immersive experiences. For those who prefer flexibility, the Hop-On Hop-Off tour allows you to personalize your day. Outdoor enthusiasts or wildlife lovers will appreciate the Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour or Ships Graveyard Kayak Tour for active fun. Meanwhile, history and sports fans should not miss the Adelaide Oval Stadium Guided Tour or the River Torrens Popeye Sightseeing Cruise.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the winery trips during peak seasons. Consider your fitness level and whether you prefer guided or self-directed activities, then match your style with the tour that best suits your trip.

Final Thoughts

Adelaide offers a fantastic array of tours and experiences, from world-class wine regions and scenic drives to wildlife adventures and sports landmarks. For wine lovers, the Barossa and McLaren Vale regions provide unforgettable tastings, especially when combined with local cuisine and stunning scenery. Active travelers will find the kayaking tours a refreshing change, offering a chance to see dolphins and shipwrecks up close.

Whether you’re after a relaxing day of tasting, an active outdoor adventure, or a cultural journey through historic villages and stadiums, Adelaide has something to make your trip special. Be sure to compare options based on your interests, and book early — these tours fill up fast during the busy season. Happy exploring in South Australia’s most inviting city!