South Australia's capital has a new spring in its step — here's where to stay in Adelaide

The capital of South Australia, Adelaide has traditionally been seen by international visitors as a gateway destination — a jumping-off point for discovering the natural wonders on its doorstep. Among them, the Adelaide Hills are a bucolic wine region, while Kangaroo Island, just off the mainland, is home to sea lions, koalas and native bird species.

But in recent years, the city has discovered a fresh sense of energy and drive that’s shaking off its reputation as a sedate country capital. As well as expanding its laneway scene of bars and restaurants, it’s welcomed a raft of cool, design-friendly digs — all of which are helping to narrow the gap between the big-hitting cities of Sydney and Melbourne.

1. Vibe Hotel Adelaide

Vibe is the fourth address by the homegrown hotel group known for its affordable yet stylish properties. Opened in 2023 the East End of the CBD (Central Business District), it occupies an 18-storey glass-fronted structure by the Adelaide Parklands, a green belt encircling the inner city.

This urban-meets-nature setting is reflected in the 123 guest rooms, which blend wall-to-wall windows and raw concrete ceilings with wooden bathroom screens and luxurious details like high-thread-cotton bedding. The ones on upper floors also come with views across the treetops and winery-rich Adelaide Hills beyond.

It’s a landscape that’s easily explored by taking advantage of the city’s free bike-hire scheme. Even closer to hand are locations featured in the city’s roster of festivals, such as the Adelaide Fringe and WOMADelaide. And after a day exploring, you can sit at Storehouse, the lobby-level diner that flows into an outdoor courtyard filled with native Australian plants. Dinner dishes could include seared kangaroo loin with black garlic, pickled grapes, pumpkin seeds and saltbush, or linguine with king prawns from nearby Spencer Gulf — all paired with local wine. From A$239 (£124).

2. Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets

The Adelaide Fringe comes to the city from mid-February, and the Indigo celebrates it with posters and memorabilia. The vibrant design goes hand in hand with the hotel’s setting next to Adelaide Central Market — the biggest covered market in the Southern Hemisphere, packed with colourful produce. Indigo’s modern Australian restaurant, Market & Meander, also keeps things local — although the biggest draw is the rooftop bar, the city’s highest. From A$202 (£105).

3. Eos by SkyCity

This luxurious hotel has a spa and a terrace overlooking the River Torrens and an extensive urban park. It’s part of the SkyCity Adelaide casino complex, which is in turn set inside the heritage-listed Adelaide Railway Station building. A highlight of the culinary options, The Guardsman restaurant occupies the station’s former Great Dining Hall and retains original flooring and lights. From A$339 (£176).

4. Oval Hotel

This aptly named hotel connects directly to the Adelaide Oval sporting stadium. It’s a few steps from the arena’s visitor centre and RoofClimb experience for behind-the-scenes tours, while its Bespoke Wine Bar & Kitchen looks right onto the Oval’s hallowed pitch. Away from the field, the guest rooms offer great skyline views. From A$299 (£155).