South Australia Travelers Recommend

Home to big name wineries such as Penfolds, Wolf Blass, and Jacob's Creek, the Barossa Valley is South Australia’s most important wine region, and the picturesque vineyards make a popular day trip destination. Here are your options for tours from Adelaide.

Full-Day Tours

Just an hour’s drive from the city, it’s easy to explore the Barossa Valley on a day tour from Adelaide. Tours often include wine tasting at Barossa Valley wineries or cellars, as well as tastings at the Maggie Beers Farm Shop and the Barossa Valley Cheese Company, plus stops at regional attractions such as the Mengler’s Hill Lookout, Tanunda, or Hahndorf. For a more personalized experience, choose a private or small-group tour, or customize your visit on a Barossa Valley hop-on, hop-off bus tour. 

Multi-Day Tours

With time to spare, consider a 2-day tour combining a Barossa Valley visit with a day trip to the Adelaide Hills or an Adelaide city tour, including optional extras such as entrance to Adelaide Zoo or a River Torrens cruise. Multi-day tours typically include accommodation, meals, and entrance fees, making them a great-value option for those looking to explore more of the area.  

Things to Know

• The Barossa Valley is located 43 miles (70 kilometers) northeast of Adelaide, a journey of about one hour by road.

• Day tours from Adelaide typically last six to 10 hours, and many tours include hotel pickup, wine tasting, and lunch.

• The legal drinking age of 18 applies for all wine tasting in the Barossa Valley.

With three days in Adelaide, you can admire the city’s historic architecture, cruise the water in search of dolphins, get up close to Kangaroo Island’s abundant wildlife, and enjoy a full day on the wine trail in McLaren Vale or the Barossa Valley. That even leaves time to savor gourmet cuisine and experience a haunted jail. Here’s how.

Day 1: Dolphins and the City

When weather permits, start day one in Adelaide on the ocean in search of the dolphins that frequent the sanctuary off Glenelg Beach—in summer, you can even get in the water with them. Next, discover the city’s historic center, designed in the 18th century by Francis Light. Stroll along the Torrens River, wander the Botanic Garden, check out architecture from St. Peter’s Cathedral to Government House, and enjoy a shopping session at Rundle Mall. On a summer Sunday, finish with a visit to the bustling Adelaide Night Market; alternatively, get into the sporting spirit at the Adelaide Oval or slurp down international foods on Gouger Street.

Day 2: Kangaroo Island Explorer

No trip to South Australia would be complete without a visit to the nation’s third-largest island, Kangaroo Island—and many visitors choose to spend the night on this stunning wildlife reserve. Don’t miss the chance to walk on the beach among sea lions; meet native species such as wallabies, koalas, kangaroos, and echidnas; and capture dramatic rocky landscapes such as Admirals Arch and Remarkable Rocks. Perhaps opt for a 4WD adventure that takes you off the beaten track. Once you’re back in the city, enjoy a ghost tour—and a window into Australia’s turbulent past—at Adelaide Gaol, which dates back to 1841. Finish the night with a trip to one of the city’s new wave of craft beer bars such as Lady Burra, which majors on Portuguese food.

Day 3: Wining and Dining

South Australia’s wine country is known around the world, and three days in Adelaide gives you the chance to properly explore either McLaren Vale or the Barossa Valley—with plenty of tastings too. On a typical wine tour, you visit as many as five different wineries and taste varietals from shiraz to chardonnay, enjoy a gourmet lunch at a winery restaurant, and perhaps stop at an artisan food store such as Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, run by the eponymous Australian celebrity chef. Once you return to the city, discover a different style of Australian original as you dine on indigenous ingredients such as lemon myrtle, quandong, plum pine, emu, and kangaroo at restaurants such as fine diner Orana or Red Ochre Grill. Wrap up your stay over a cocktail in a laneway bar.

Two days in Adelaide enables you to see the best of the city, journey into the wine country, look for dolphins, and admire the spectacular wildlife of Kangaroo Island, home to native creatures from sea lions to koalas. You can also discover South Australia’s spectacular cuisine, including game, seafood, and artisan cheeses. Here’s how.

Day 1: City, Wine, and Dolphins

**Morning:**During summer, start the day with a trip to the dolphin sanctuary, whether by boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. At cooler times, spend the morning orienting yourself in Adelaide’s historic center, soaking up sights like St. Peter’s Cathedral, North Terrace, and the Torrens River.

**Afternoon:**South Australia is home to two of the nation’s top wine regions—the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale—so a tasting session is a must. With a history dating to 1844 and just a 15-minute drive from the city, Penfolds is a solid choice, although the Barossa Valley’s fine shiraz is worth the trip.

**Night:**If you’re in town on a summer Sunday, don’t miss the foodie extravaganza on offer at the Adelaide Night Market, home to more than 100 stalls. Alternatively, catch a night game at the iconic Adelaide Oval or simply discover the global cuisine on offer along vibrant Gouger Street.

Day 2: Kangaroo Island Adventure

**Morning:**Australia’s 3rd-largest island, Kangaroo Island is home to startling natural rock formations, unspoiled beaches, and abundant wildlife—from koalas and kangaroos to echidnas and emus—as well as gardens, farms, and craft stores. You can reach it by plane or ferry from Adelaide.

**Afternoon:**It’s worth spending a full day exploring Kangaroo Island. Walk among sea lions at Seal Bay, capture timeless photos of the Remarkable Rocks, get up close and personal with native critters at Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, and soak up some sunshine on an unspoiled beach.

**Night:**For your last night in Adelaide, take the opportunity to discover the distinctive flavors of Australia’s indigenous ingredients. Taste game such as emu, kangaroo, or crocodile; native herbs, including mountain pepper and lemon myrtle; and curiosities such as green ants. Close the evening with a cocktail in a laneway bar.

Just off the coast of South Australia, Kangaroo Island makes a popular choice for a day trip from Adelaide, and one day is just enough time to take in the highlights. Marvel at the natural wonders of Flinders Chase National Park, discover the island’s abundant wildlife, and take a thrilling night safari. Here’s how to spend 24 hours on Kangaroo Island.

Morning: Ocean Views and Wildlife Watching

Getting around Kangaroo Island without your own transport isn’t really feasible, but joining a tour will save you the hassle of renting a car and ensure you don’t waste any time. Most tours set out from Kingscote or Penneshaw and head west to Flinders Chase National Park, driving along the island’s scenic south coast.

Along the way, stop at the Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and take a guided Koala Walk—the bushland track is a great place to spot wild koalas and kangaroos in their natural environment. Nearby, Seal Bay is another wildlife hot spot, home to a colony of rare Australian fur seals, while Vivonne Bay is an idyllic spot for a seaside lunch or a quick swim in the ocean. 

Afternoon: Natural Wonders of Flinders Chase National Park

Stretching across the western tip of the island, Flinders Chase National Park offers photo-worthy views at all angles, from sweeping coastal cliffs and historic lighthouses to wild beaches and bushland trails. To best explore the park, opt for a 4WD tour and venture off-road to enjoy scenic hikes and possible sightings of wallabies, endemic birds, and echidnas.

Most tours of the national park include photo stops at natural landmarks such as the Remarkable Rocks and Admiral Arch; a visit to the Flinders Chase Visitors Centre; and the coastal walk to Cape Borda Lighthouse, which makes a memorable spot to watch the sunset. 

Night: Set Out on Safari

Tucking into fresh-from-the-ocean seafood is a quintessential island experience, so book a table at one of the seafront restaurants in Kingscote or Penneshaw—local specialties include oysters and  King George whiting. If you’re spending the night on the island, one of the best times for wildlife watching is after dark. Exploring with a guide on a night safari will maximize your chances of spotting elusive creatures such as tammar wallabies, brush-tailed possums, and boobook owls. The island’s namesake kangaroos are also most active in the evening hours, so if you haven’t already spotted them, now’s your chance! 

From scenic river valleys to patchwork vineyards and dramatic coastal cliffs, South Australia—and its cosmopolitan capital, Adelaide—serves as the gateway to the Outback. Whatever time of year you plan to visit, there’s no time like the present to book your trip. Here are a few experiences you should not miss.

Sample South Australia Wines Wine tasting makes for a popular day trip from Adelaide. The Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale wine regions produce some of Australia’s best award-winning wines. Tour the vineyards and visit the cellar doors of top wineries while you sample the signature varietals, often paired with local foods.

Spot Wildlife on Kangaroo Island The sweeping dunes, sandy beaches, and thick forests of Kangaroo Island make it renowned for an incredible variety of wildlife. Common sightings include koalas, wallabies, sea lions, fur seals, southern right whales—and, or course, plenty of kangaroos. Guided day trips and multi-day itineraries include conservation parks and wildlife sanctuaries.

Hit the Murray River Cruising along the Murray River on an authentic paddle wheeler takes you into the heart of Aussie life. A typical journey gets you up close to ancient rock carvings with insights on Aboriginal culture. Don’t forget wildlife spotting, sheep shearing demos, riverside wine tasting, and a requisite barbie (Aussie slang for barbecue).

Explore Adelaide Adelaide serves as a strategic starting point for trips to Uluru (Ayer’s Rock) and Australia’s Red Centre, or escaping to the Outback on a tour to the Flinders Ranges. The Festival City itself has much to offer as well, from the Adelaide Zoo to the Adelaide Central Market. Opt for a sightseeing tour paired with a cruise on the River Torrens.

Three days on Kangaroo Island gives you plenty of time for wildlife watching in Flinders Chase National Park, discovering the island’s beaches, and taking part in outdoor activities from hiking to sandboarding. Here’s how to spend three days on Kangaroo Island. 

Day 1: Ocean Views and Kangaroos

Stretching along the western coast, Flinders Chase National Park is the island’s highlight, full of wildlife-watching opportunities. Take a 4WD tour—your guide will know all the most impressive vista points and wildlife hot spots. Must-see landmarks within the park include the Remarkable Rocks and Admiral Arch, while the coastal walk to the historic Cape Borda Lighthouse affords incredible ocean views. On the south coast, Kelly Hill Conservation Park is a safe bet for spotting the island’s namesake kangaroos, while nearby Seal Bay is known for its colony of Australian fur seals. Save some energy for the evening—the island’s wildlife is most active after dark, and a night safari offers opportunities to spot little penguins, possums, tammar wallabies, and boobook owls.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

The beaches and bushlands of Kangaroo Island afford ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Hike along part of the 38-mile (61-kilometer) Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail; take a guided Koala Walk at the Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary; or explore the Kelly Hill Caves. Other options include an adrenaline-fueled ATV excursion around the island, kayaking along the Harriet River, or sandboarding and tobogganing at the Little Sahara dunes. After an action-packed morning, spend the afternoon relaxing on the island’s beautiful beaches. The sandy shores of Vivonne Bay are the most popular spot along the south coast, while in the north, you can swim in the tranquil waters of Emu Bay or explore the white-sand beaches and sea caves along Stokes Bay. Nearby, Snellings Beach is a great spot for surfing and fishing and renowned for its magnificent sunsets.

Day 3: Sightseeing, Shopping, and Food Tasting

Spend your final day hopping between the island’s atmospheric coastal towns. Gain insight into the history and heritage of Kangaroo Island with a visit to the Gateway Information Centre and the Maritime and Folk Museum in the port town of Penneshaw; then head to the island capital of Kingscote to browse the shops, visit the Emu Bay Lavender Farm, and take a stroll along Kingscote Wharf. After working up an appetite sightseeing, join a foodie tour to discover the island’s many artisan producers. Tuck into fresh-from-the-ocean oysters at the American River's Oyster Farm Shop, sample local wines at the Dudley Wine Cellar Door, or pick up some unique souvenirs at Clifford's Honey Farm. For something a little stronger, there’s also the Kangaroo Island Brewery and Kangaroo Island Spirits. Have your last dinner on the island at Sunset Food and Wine, where tables look out over the seafront.

The Barossa Valley is more than just rolling hillsides and outstanding vineyards. This scenic part of the Australian countryside is also home to some of the nation’s most beautiful, picturesque towns. Here are a few to add to your itinerary when you visit this Australian wine region.

Hahndorf

Ranked among the prettiest towns in Australia, Hahndorf is the area’s oldest German settlement, founded by Prussian pioneers in 1839. The town’s buildings reflect this heritage with their half-timbered style. Located just 16 miles (26 kilometers) southeast of Adelaide, Hahndorf is easy to visit on a day trip to the wine country.

Lyndoch

Founded in 1840 and surrounded by vineyards, this settlement—among the oldest in the region—has a charming main street complete with a traditional Germany bakery and quirky souvenir shops. See the town from above aboard a helicopter tour.

Nuriootpa

Nuriootpa, or Nuri for short, serves as the commercial center of the Barossa Valley. Once an Aboriginal bartering place, the busy town is also home to the regionally famous Wolf Blass winery, where visitors can tour the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process.

Tanunda

If Nuri is the Barossa Valley’s commercial hub, Tanunda is its cultural heart. This German settlement teems with cafés, restaurants, bakeries, and cellar doors, as well as four Lutheran churches. Many of the valley’s best wineries lie just outside of town.

Angaston

While founded by an Englishman, George Fife Angas, this charming town maintains a German feel. It even has a wurst shop that’s been selling more than a dozen varieties of German sausages since 1939. The town plays host to the Barossa Farmers Market each Saturday.

Marananga

Several notable wineries lie within walking distance of Marananga, situated in one of the most scenic parts of the Barossa. The local brass band practices each Tuesday evening, and the cream-spired Gnadenfrei St. Michael’s Lutheran Church is a favorite among photographers.

Greenock

Visiting this small town is like stepping into Scotland, thanks to the numerous Scottish immigrants who call Greenock home. While there’s plenty of excellent wine pouring in town, Greenock is also known for a microbrewery housed in a 19th-century wheat store.

Whether you’re planning an action-packed weekend or taking a relaxing overnight trip from Adelaide, two days is just enough time to enjoy Kangaroo Island. Explore Flinders Chase National Park, take a wildlife safari, and visit some of South Australia’s most beautiful beaches. Here’s how to get the most out of two days on Kangaroo Island.

Day 1: Wildlife and Wilderness

**Morning:**Flinders Chase National Park is the star attraction of Kangaroo Island, and a 4WD tour is the best way to explore. Stop along the way to marvel at natural wonders such as the Remarkable Rocks and Admiral Arch, admire the views from the Cape Borda Lighthouse, and look out for wild kangaroos in Kelly Hill Conservation Park.

**Afternoon:**Continue along the island’s scenic south coast to Seal Bay, home to a colony of rare Australian fur seals. Nearby, Vivonne Bay is home to some of the island’s most pristine beaches, where you can cool off with a swim before grabbing a drink at one of the beachfront bars. 

**Night:**The island’s wildlife is most active at night, so head out after dark to spot possums, tammar wallabies, boobook owls, and, of course, kangaroos. Venture off-road with a guide on a night safari to maximize your chances of wildlife sightings, or book a night tour at the Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. 

Day 2: Fun Activities and Foodie Delights

**Morning:**Kick off the day with a fun outdoor activity and get your adrenaline pumping. There are a variety of options to choose from—zip around the island on a quad bike, paddle along the Harriet River on a kayaking excursion, or head to the Little Sahara dunes, where you can try sandboarding or tobogganing.

**Afternoon:**Discover the island’s homegrown delicacies on a foodie tour. Perhaps stop by the Dudley Cellar Door for a wine tasting of local varietals, visit the American River's Oyster Farm Shop to sample fresh-from-the-ocean oysters, or pick up some edible souvenirs from Clifford's Honey Farm. End the day with dinner at Sunset Food and Wine, where tables look out over the seafront. 

**Night:**Penneshaw is one of the few places in the world where you can spot little penguins in their natural environment. Each night at sunset, the penguins waddle back to their burrows on the beach after a day at sea. For the best views, head to the Penneshaw Penguin Centre, where there’s a dedicated viewing platform, or opt for a guided evening walk to learn more about the world’s smallest penguin species. 

One of the most diverse communities of native wildlife in Australia, Kangaroo Island is a must-see destination for nature lovers. Don't miss the following spots for your best chances at spotting native Australian species and more.

Flinders Chase National Park

Covering most of the western side of the island, Flinders Chase offers a number of bush walks likely to yield sightings of Kangaroo Island birdlife. Keep an eye out for wallabies, echidnas, and the elusive platypus. As an added bonus, dolphins and whales can be spotted from the ocean-facing lookouts within the park.

Admirals Arch

This stunning rock formation inside Flinders Chase features a colony of New Zealand fur seals that hangs out on the rocks around the base of the massive arch.

Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

Head to Hanson Bay on the south coast to set out on a koala walk. The sanctuary also offers a guided nocturnal walk during which you might see opossums and bats.

Seal Bay Conservation Park

A short way down the coast from Hanson Bay is the Seal Bay Conservation Park, home to Australian fur seals. You can even walk out onto the beach among them on a guided tour.

Clifford's Honey Farm

Clifford's Honey Farm, set near the island's main township of Kingscote, has a working hive of the rare Ligurian bee on display. At dusk, head nearby to see the resident little penguin colony return to shore.

With its memorable name, endless sandy beaches, and abundance of wildlife, Kangaroo Island is the quintessential Aussie island and the ideal place for a back-to-nature experience. With daily flights and boat transfers to the island, Adelaide is the best starting point for Kangaroo Island tours—here are your options.

Full-Day Tours

It’s possible to visit on a day tour, taking in highlights such as the Seal Bay Conservation Park, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, Remarkable Rocks, and Admirals Arch. Take in the native animals, from Australian sea lions to kangaroos and wallabies. Most day tours include hotel pickup, lunch, and a choice of either round-trip ferry transport or flights from Adelaide, ensuring that you maximize your time.

Multi-Day Tours

A 2-day tour offers plenty of time to explore further and enjoy activities such as sandboarding on the Little Sahara sand dunes, a tasting at the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, or a 4WD safari through the Kelly Hill Conservation Park or Flinders Chase National Park. Get up close to raptors, penguins, kangaroos, and other native species. Tours often include accommodation, meals, and round-trip transport, ensuring a Kangaroo Island experience that’s hassle-free and all-inclusive.

Things to Know

• Kangaroo Island is 13 kilometres (8 miles) off the coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia, around 125 miles (200 kilometers) southwest of Adelaide.

• High-speed ferries take 45 minutes from Cape Jervis (around a 1.5-hour drive from Adelaide), or it’s a 30-minute flight from Adelaide Airport.

• It’s possible to visit on a long day tour from Adelaide (typically about 16 hours), but the most popular choice is a 2-day Kangaroo Island tour including overnight accommodation on the island.

• Cell phone coverage is scarce on the island, and Wi-Fi is rare.

Even if you only have one day in Adelaide, you can relish a taste of the region’s attractions. Go looking for dolphins on the ocean or cruise the Torrens River through the city’s neoclassical center, taste fine wines at one of the area’s internationally known wineries, and discover the rich flavors of indigenous ingredients. Here’s how.

Morning: Wander the Waters

Start the day by exploring Adelaide’s watery landscapes. Head out to the ocean in search of dolphins on a motorized boat or even a kayak, or simply stroll the sands of scenic Glenelg Beach. Alternatively, explore the intriguing city. Opt for a tour that includes a cruise along the little Torrens River, which runs through the city’s pretty parks and historic center, or ride a Segway along the riverbank. Along the way, admire 19th-century architecture such as St. Peter’s Cathedral and the grand homes of North Terrace.

Afternoon: Wine Wisdom

The state of South Australia is home to two of the nation’s most celebrated wine regions—the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale—and no trip to Adelaide is complete without discovering the area’s food and wine. The noted Penfolds winery, with a history dating to 1844, is just a 15-minute drive from Adelaide and offers spectacular lunch experiences, complete with tastings. Alternatively, you can visit a handful of Barossa Valley wineries on an afternoon tour and experience their unique vintages. Shiraz is the signature grape varietal of both regions, but you’ll likely taste other wines too, from rieslings to cabernets.

Night: Indigenous Ingredients

Farm-fresh produce makes Adelaide’s restaurant scene shine, yet one of the most exciting trends in Australian cuisine today is the rediscovery of indigenous ingredients. Over dinner at a modern Australian eatery, savor native and foraged foods—from surprising treats such as green ants to native herbs, including lemon myrtle and mountain pepper—and Australian game such as emu and kangaroo. Wrap up the evening at one of Adelaide’s contemporary cocktail bars, some themed as speakeasies, others as historic pharmacies, and learn how Australia’s 5th-largest city punches above its weight in foodie terms.

Running 1,500 miles (2,520 kilometers) from the peaks of the Snowy Mountains through New South Wales and Victoria to South Australia, the Murray River is the Australia’s longest river. A Murray River cruise makes a popular choice for a day trip from Adelaide—here are your options.

Highlights

• Combine a scenic cruise along the Murray River with visit to the Red River Gums and Tea Tree Gully in the Adelaide Hills on a day tour from Adelaide.

• Tuck into a delicious lunch, luncheon, or morning tea onboard as you float down the river.

• Set sail on a multi-day cruise and sleep onboard a historic paddle steamer.

• Hop off your cruise to visit historic towns along the riverbank, such as Mannum, Murray Bridge, Craignook, Blanchetown, and Swan Reach.

• Spot nocturnal wildlife such as grey kangaroos, hair-nosed wombats, and Murray long-necked tortoises on a thrilling Murray River night cruise.

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away or taking an overnight trip from Adelaide, two days in the Barossa Valley let you explore historic towns and savor the region’s fine wines and gourmet cuisine at a relaxed pace. Here’s how.

Day 1:  Vineyard Views and Wine Tasting

**Morning:**Kickstart your time in Barossa Valley with a hot-air balloon ride or helicopter flight. An aerial vantage point affords spectacular views of the vineyards and some tours include breakfast accompanied by sparkling wine on landing.

**Afternoon:**It’s possible to visit three or four Barossa Valley wineries in an afternoon; most tours include a visit to one of the big names—Seppeltsfield, Wolf Blass, Penfolds, and Jacob’s Creek—alongside smaller wineries. Be sure to join a guided tour or book a private driver so you can enjoy wine tasting without having to worry about driving.  

**Night:**Book a table at one of the Barossa Valley’s most prestigious restaurants for a memorable dinner date. The Chef's Table Experience at St. Hugo Winery includes a guided tour of the wine estate, an 8-course degustation menu, and wine with each course. 

Day 2: Villages of the Valley

**Morning:**More time allows you to further immerse yourself in the cuisine of the Barossa Valley. Take a cooking class at Jacob's Creek winery and create gourmet dishes using local produce, or make your own wine during a workshop at Penfolds Winery. 

**Afternoon:**Spend the afternoon exploring Barossa Valley’s villages, which include historic Williamstown; Tanunda, where you’ll find the Menglers Hill Lookout; and Nuriootpa, home to the Wolf Blass and Penfolds wineries. You can explore by classic car or convertible, or opt to take a scenic walk, bike ride, or Segway tour through the vineyards. 

**Night:**Swap wine tasting for beer tasting during a tour of Barossa Valley Brewing. Learn more about beer making during a brewery tour, sample a variety of craft beers, and tuck into tasty food.

South Australia’s most prestigious wine region is a popular day trip from Adelaide. If you’ve only got one day in Barossa Valley, it’s likely wine tasting is your priority, so hire a private driver or join a guided tour to maximize your time. Here’s the best way to spend one day in Barossa Valley. 

Morning: Admire the Scenery

The lush countryside and rolling vineyards of the Barossa Valley are hailed as some of  South Australia’s most scenic landscapes. That being said, the best views are undoubtedly from above, so start the day with a sunrise hot-air balloon or helicopter ride over the vineyards.

After landing, tuck into a breakfast inspired by regional specialties and accompanied by sparkling wine—the perfect introduction to the region’s gastronomic delights. 

Afternoon: A Taste of the Barossa Valley

A guided tour is the best way to sample the Barossa Valley wines; it leaves you free to indulge in wine tastings without having to worry about driving. Seppeltsfield, Wolf Blass, Penfolds, and Jacob’s Creek are among the biggest names in the region, and most tours visit at least one of the top wineries, alongside two or three smaller wineries, to give you a comprehensive overview of Barossa’s wines. 

Exact itineraries vary but most tours stop to take in the views from Mengler Hill and sample local produce at the Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop or the Barossa Valley Cheese Company, and include a walk through a vineyard.  

Night: Wine and Dine

Barossa Valley isn’t just famous for its wines—it’s also home to some of South Australia’s best restaurants. Booking a table in advance is essential at the region’s most popular spots, and it’s worth organizing hotel transfers to ensure you can fully enjoy the wine menu.

For the ultimate experience, reserve a table at the Chef's Table at St. Hugo Winery and watch as chefs prepare an 8-course degustation menu. Each gourmet dish is paired with fine wines and you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the wine estate before you sit down to eat. 

Three days in Barossa Valley allow you to discover the region’s top wineries, explore the countryside, and enjoy outdoor activities at a more relaxed pace than on a day trip. Here’s how to see the best of Barossa Valley in three days.

Day 1: Fine Wines and Gourmet Cuisine

Wine tasting is the top attraction in the Barossa Valley, which is home to some of the biggest names in Australian wine.

Seppeltsfield, Wolf Blass, Penfolds, and Jacob’s Creek are among the most famous, but most tours also visit some smaller wineries, which offer an excellent selection of cabernet sauvignon, grenache, and semillon varietals, plus many more. 

Taking a guided tour or hiring a private driver leaves you free to enjoy wine tasting without having to worry about driving. Some tours visit up to three wineries in one day, making them ideal for time-pressed travelers. For a more immersive experience, book a wine-making workshop or  food-and-wine-matching masterclass, during which you’ll expand your wine knowledge under the guidance of a sommelier. 

End your day with an 8-course degustation menu at one of Barossa Valley’s most-renowned restaurants—the Chef's Table at St. Hugo Winery. To secure a table at the prestigious restaurant, advance booking is essential.

Day 2: Vineyard Views

The most spectacular views of the Barossa Valley are from the air, so kickstart day two with a sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the vineyards; the majority include breakfast accompanied by sparkling wine.

The landscapes of Barossa Valley provide a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities; set out on a guided hike or bike ride on the 25-mile (40-kilometer) long Barossa Trail, which offers great views of the Barossa Ranges and Adelaide Plains. Alternatively, adventurous travelers can enjoy a Segway or horseback riding tour of Seppeltsfield Winery vineyards, or even get behind the wheel of a rally car. 

Day 3:  Villages of the Valley

The villages of Barossa Valley each have their own distinctive character so it’s worth taking time to explore the local markets, artisan food producers, and historic sites on a tour that includes convenient round-trip transfers. For a fun way to get around, hire a bike or trike, or travel in style in a convertible Mustang.

The Barossa Heritage Trail links all of the main villages and viewpoints, but leave yourself plenty of time to stroll around the towns and browse the shops, galleries, and cafés. Popular stops include the Barossa Farmers Market and the Barossa Valley Cheese Company in Angaston; the Maggie Beers Farm Shop in Nuriootpa; and the unique Whispering Wall in Williamstown. 

Time your visit to watch the sunset from the viewpoint at Mengler's Hill, then head to the nearby Barossa Valley Brewing for a craft beer tasting session in the summer beer garden. 

Barossa Valley is one of South Australia’s most popular wine regions, as famous for its fine wines as it is for its beautiful scenery. Here are some of the must-try varietals and tasting experiences in the Barossa Valley.

Must-Try Varietals

With more than 150 wineries—including some big-name wineries like Wolf Blass, Penfolds, and Jacob’s Creek—wine lovers will find plenty to get excited about in the Barossa Valley. Boasting the ideal ‘“terroir” for wine growing, the valley grows a diverse selection of grape varieties, including cabernet sauvignon, grenache, Semillon, Riesling, merlot, and chardonnay. Fortified wines are also produced here. Wine connoisseurs can sample award-winning Shiraz wines and vintage wines at Seppeltsfield winery, taste the top gold label Shiraz at nearby Wolf Blass, or invest in a bottle of Penfolds Grange, one of Australia’s most iconic wines. 

Must-Do Experiences

• Soar over the Barossa vineyards on a romantic hot air balloon flight and then toast your safe landing with a Champagne breakfast.

• Discover the winemaking process and make your very own wine at the legendary Penfolds winery.

• Combine delicious cuisine and fine wines with a cooking class or wine-pairing workshop at the famous Jacob's Creek winery.

• Fly over the Barossa Range in a helicopter, then touch down at St. Hugo Wines for a food and wine tasting at the Chef’s Table. 

• Feel like a VIP on a private Barossa Valley tour with guided wine tastings at some of the region’s most prestigious wineries.