Back

South Australia

It seems like all roads lead to wine and food in South Australia

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

South Australia is a bit of a hidden gem for Kiwis who have traditionally visited the eastern gateways on their holidays to Australia. In fact, a direct flight to Adelaide from Auckland is only 50 minutes longer than flying to Melbourne, and it’s well worth the extra time in the air. Known as the ‘20 minute city’, Adelaide is the gateway to all there is to see and do in South Australia. It is both cultural and cool, and its superb shopping, beaches, history and restaurants are not to be missed.

It seems like all roads lead to wine and food in South Australia. From Adelaide there are nine distinct wine regions within 90 minutes drive, none more famous than the Barossa wine region located less than an hour drive from the CBD.

Known as the ‘20 minute city’, Adelaide is the gateway to all there is to see and do in South Australia. It is both cultural and cool, and its superb shopping, beaches, history and restaurants are not to be missed.

Foodies love the sights, tastes and smells of the Adelaide Central Market. Regarded as the ‘pantry of the city’, it’s the perfect place to stop and pick up supplies for your stay.

Shopaholics feel right at home on Rundle Mall, Adelaide’s shopping heart. At the end of the day you can soak up the atmosphere in one of more than 700 restaurants along Adelaide’s eat streets – try Gouger St, Rundle St or Hutt St.

Take a wander down North Terrace, regarded as Adelaide’s cultural boulevard and home to the city’s grandest treasure houses. It’s a heartland of art, history, knowledge and people. You’ll fi nd the State’s Art Gallery, SA Museum (home to the largest collection of Aboriginal artifacts in Australia), Library and Botanic Gardens, which are all free to visit.

From the city centre it’s just a 20 minute tram ride to the beachside suburb of Glenelg. This seaside playground is always buzzing with people enjoying the sand, sea, foreshore parks, cafés and local entertainment. Stroll along the jetty, browse through the hundreds of shops and dine at sidewalk cafes along Jetty Road.

In the Adelaide Hills, a stop at the German village of Hahndorf is recommended. Lined with jacaranda trees, the main street’s quaint and historic stone buildings are fi lled with art and craft galleries, cellar doors, antique shops, German bakeries, chocolate shops, pubs, cafés and a fantastic cheese cellar.

Another popular region just 1 hour from Adelaide is the majestic Murray River. Take an escorted river cruise on an historic paddlewheeler or, if you feel like creating your own adventure, get a group of friends together and captain your own luxury houseboat as you cruise the Murray River.

Whatever you choose to do on your holiday, South Australia boasts an outstanding variety of places to see and experiences to enjoy. You’ll find vast landscapes, dazzling uncrowded beaches, varied wildlife and friendly locals who always have time for a chat. So what are you waiting for? Pick up a few bottles of local wine, stock up on local produce and pack your cossie because in South Australia you’ve got all the elements of a perfect holiday!

Our Australia travel blogs

Top tips for your ultimate Queensland holiday

Queensland is the perfect destination for every type of traveller. Whether you’re planning a fun-filled family getaway, a romantic retreat, or an epic road trip, this stunning state has it all!

Sunrise, sunset & starlight on the Great Barrier Reef

Australia

A meal to remember in the Daintree Rainforest

Australia

What it's really like to travel on The Ghan?

Ever wondered what it’s really like to travel on The Ghan? Here’s a peek into what it’s truly like to travel on The Ghan!

Top 10 Australia events for 2025

Australia’s event calendar is always buzzing with festivals, parties, and celebrations, making every season a good time to be here.

Spoil yourself in an all inclusive luxury!

Whitsundays

Be dazzled by Vivid Sydney

Sydney

The best shopping on the Gold Coast

If you check more luggage on the return flight...well, we've been there too!

7 spots you can't miss in the Gold Coast's hinterland

Explore further in the Gold Coast by heading away from those famous beaches and turning inland for adventure — and for eating!

5 awesome Gold Coast resorts for families

We don’t use the ‘F-word’ at House of Travel (favourite) but we know what’s popular, and what our customers love, and these five Gold Coast hotels are always top-dog for family holidays.

48 hours on the Gold Coast

Our ‘Been there, haven’t done that yet?!’ guide to 48 hours on the Gold Coast proves that this destination still has quite a few surprises up its sleeve

12 free (or nearly) things to do on the Gold Coast

Aside from hitting the famous beach, these are the very best low-cost gems on the Gold Coast.

Do’s and dont's for Gold Coast theme parks

Here's how to make the most of your time in the Gold Coast's famous theme parks.

9 top picks for families in the Gold Coast

7 day Sunshine Coast itinerary

Imagine a summery beachside retreat with the added bonus of lush rainforests and fresh air and you have the perfect mix of the Sunshine Coast.

Spoil yourself in an all inclusive luxury!

Discover Elysian Luxury Eco Island Retreat, a secluded adults-only island retreat in the Whitsundays and the first 100% solar powered resort on the Great Barrier Reef.

Know before you go guide: Indian Pacific Rail Journey

Experience the golden age of train travel with Journey Beyond. Journey aboard the Indian Pacific and spoil your senses with gourmet food, spectacular views and five-star service. On 17th October 1917, the two construction teams finally met, joining the west to the east with the longest straight stretch of railway ever built in Australia. There’s never been a better time to indulge in a trip which is as much about the journey and the history as it is the destination.

Where should I go in Australia?

Whether you're craving the excitement of high-energy cities or the relaxation of laid-back beaches, Australia has it all. From iconic landmarks to secret spots only locals know about, our guide will show you where to go and what to see to get the most out of your Australian adventure.

Top things to do in Sydney and Beyond

You'll never run out of things to do in Sydney, but don’t forget to set some time out to explore the wonders of New South Wales.

Five reasons to visit Vivid Sydney

Celebrating its 15th year in 2025, Vivid Sydney is Australia’s largest festival of light, music, ideas, and food. From 19 May-15 Jun 2025, Vivid Sydney transforms the Harbour City into an illuminated kaleidoscope of colour for 23 wonder-filled nights.

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"He can't do enough for us more a friend than a travel agent we book all our travel through Patrick or staff at house of travel ponsonby"

George and Ulini

"I have used Wendy before the reason you go back is she is so helpful she understands her job and is very accommodating she has everything organised for you listens to what you say nothing is a bother to her Wendy is so lovely to deal with ??"

Lynette

"I walked in without an appointment but had an idea what I wanted . Within 45 mins I was booked and paid for all set to go on holiday again"

Amanda

See all reviews

Meet our South Australia specialists

See all

Toni Rendell

House of Travel Rotorua

As a 17 year old, I headed off to Finland on a student exchange for a year, my first ever overseas trip and the start of my passion for travel.

Whether it’s a quick jaunt across the Tasman, an adventure through Vietnam or a guided coach tour of Europe, I love working with you to create the perfect holiday.

Having been in the industry for over 30 years, I have an extensive knowledge of airfares, and travel providers, I combine that with the knowledge of my returning

customers and the wisdom of the House of Travel collective to craft your travel.

There sure is a lot you need to know and I pride myself on keeping up to date with industry trends and changes. That may be new destinations to visit,

beautiful places to stay or changes in travel requirements.

So get in touch and let me help make your travel dreams come true.

Toni

Kate Jardine

House of Travel Johnsonville

My travel adventures started back in 2004 when I departed on my OE to Scotland with a stop in Dubai.

I have travelled in all styles, backpacking around Europe, small group adventure travel following the volcano trail in Central America, luxury coach touring in Canada and many family resort holidays through the South Pacific.

I love booking travel just as much as experiencing new and exciting destinations myself.

Kate

Zoe Robinson

House of Travel New Plymouth

Discovering the world and all it has to offer has always held a place dear to my heart, and I am devoted to helping you uncover the wonders of your next destination!
Through actively listening to your travel goals, I will work hard to create the trip of your dreams; Whether it be a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a world-wide adventure.

Zoe

Kirsty Stalker

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

With over 12 years in the industry I have always had travel and tourism in my blood, including working as cabin crew for nearly 8 years. I was so lucky to visit so many great destinations while working and on personal trips.

When I'm not working you will find me at home cooking and spending quality time with my young family and friends.

Kirsty