Oh sweet Adelaide—affectionately coined the city of churches, this pocket rocket of a city offers so much more than just stained glass-windows and heritage buildings. Adelaide is a bustling melting pot of eclectic wine bars, Nonna-approved pasta joints, vibrant markets and an inspiring arts scene that has so much for visitors to uncover.
Hotel Indigo located in the pulsing heart of Adelaide’s CBD is the perfect destination for any traveller that is looking to immerse themselves in all that the city has to offer, from the lively inner city laneways to the gorgeous outer city suburbs. Located directly across from the historic Adelaide Central Market, Hotel Indigo is truly one of those rare finds that simultaneously offers convenience and luxury.
Here’s our insider tips on how to experience the city like a local with some of the very best places to dine, drink and play on your Adelaide escape.
CBD
Start the day right with the frothiest of cappuccinos and a side of 60’s Italo-retro vibes at the iconic Lucia’s Pizza and Spaghetti Bar or pick up a conti roll from their sister shop, Charcuterie Traiteur, before shopping up a storm at local boutiques Goodbyes and Subtype on Adelaide’s premier Rundle Mall shopping strip. If you’re looking for a cheeky vino or long lunch, hit up one of Adelaide’s many hip CBD eateries including Osteria Oggi, Hey Jupiter Brasserie or go all out with an opulent Japanese feast at local hotspot Shōbōshō. Beyond wining and dining, we suggest an afternoon visit to Adelaide’s Botanic Gardens or Art Gallery of South Australia to get those steps up. As the sun sets, it’s time for a visit to one of the favoured laneway bars or local institutions like Leigh Street Wine Room, Africola or 2KW Bar come alive that come alive at night, or perhaps opt for a sunset aperitivo and dinner back at Hotel Indigo’s vibrant rooftop bar, Merrymaker, which boasts stunning views overlooking the city.
Glenelg
This endearing coastal town looks like something straight out of your favourite Nicholas Sparks film—think relaxing seaside views, heritage buildings, yesteryear charm and its very own ferris wheel. Pack a towel and your bathers and take the tram from the CBD to enjoy the scenic route into town, before heading straight to local hotspot Dante’s Deli. These guys have garnered a massive following for plating up some of the best Italian-style sandos in town—think mushroom ragù and tuna melt toasties or sopressa and mortadella panini, but be prepared to queue. Being by the water, we also can’t resist a seafood lunch and the newly renovated The Jetty Bar offers some delicious seafood pub grub including an epic seafood platter with South Australian delicacies including Coffin Bay oysters, Venus Bay King Prawns and Slipper Lobster which go down nicely with a few pints or a spritz or two. End the day on a sweet note with a visit to Bottega Gelateria. Their Gawler Organic Pistachio and Salted Pecan and Maple gelato is worth the tram visit to Glenelg alone in our books. Delizioso.
Norwood
Nestled in Adelaide’s eastern suburbs, Norwood is home to some of Adelaide’s chicest boutiques and finest eateries. On Parade Street, you’ll find some of Adelaide’s best pizzaioli flipping pizzas at Johnny di Francesco’s 400 Gradi. The Norwood-based pizzeria is the award-winning restaurateur's first Australian venue outside of Melbourne and serves excellent Neapolitan style pizza which will go down perfectly with a spritz. Just one block down is Michelin-star chef Jake Kellie’s open-flame dining restaurant arkhé, an Adelaide Institution that swung its doors open in 2021. Our pro tip: opt for their Premium Chef’s Selection which features a six-course feast of some of their most luxurious offerings and aim for a table at the counter and watch the maestros at work. CBD favourite East End Cellars has also ventured into the neighbourhood with their recently opened Norwood store, which is delightfully convenient for a post-long lunch afternoon tipple.
Therbaton
Venture west of Adelaide to the inner-city suburb of Therbaton. Considered one of the more hipster locales of Adelaide, Therbaton has had a resurgence over recent years thanks to some exciting new additions in the former industrial precinct including Bloom Cafe. The stunning venue is the latest venture from the brainchilds of CBD hotspot, Peter Rabbit and offers all-day brunch with an incredibly valued Make it Boozy option. Think cocktails and bubbly over a cast iron dutch baby, mushies on toast or pork sausage croissant. Right next door is Brightstar Brewing, a Central European-inspired brewery and taphouse housed in the former Adelaide University laboratories. Limoncello lovers will need to check out South-Australian made and owned, Ambra Spirits recently opened distillery and bar. Soak in the la dolce vita vibes over a limoncello spritz or house negroni with Ambra Blood Orange Gin.
With world class amenities at your fingertips and Adelaide’s thriving CBD right at your doorstep, Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets is the ideal location for anyone that is looking to explore or relax—whether it’s for a weekend staycation, a single night layover or for a bougie base to explore Adelaide over a few days.
Editor’s note: this article was produced in partnership with Hotel Indigo. Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
Image credit: Hotel Indigo