The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Adelaide is one of the most underrated cities in Australia. It is centrally located and surrounded by wine regions and has stylish architecture, excellent beaches, delicious food, and vivid nightlife. In short, Adelaide is absolutely one of Australia’s best-kept secrets.
Choosing the best neighborhood to stay in Adelaide can be very overwhelming. Which is exactly why we wrote this guide for where to stay in Adelaide. Thinking of hitting up Barossa Valley or the Adelaide Hills? Want to be right at the heart of the action in the Adelaide city centre? There’s somewhere for everyone!
This Adelaide neighborhood guide was written with one thing in mind – to help YOU find the best neighborhood to stay in based on what YOU want to do. So whether that’s lounging on Glenelg beach, exploring the art scene or partying all night long, this guide will show you everything you need to know – and more – about Adelaide’s best neighborhoods.
So get excited – here are our best recommendations for where to stay in Adelaide, South Australia.
- Where to Stay in Adelaide
- Adelaide Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Adelaide
- Adelaide’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ’s on Where to Stay in Adelaide, South Australia
- What To Pack For Adelaide, South Australia
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Adelaide, South Australia
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Adelaide, South Australia
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? Searching for cheap accommodation in the Central Business District or maybe a boutique hotel near Glenelg beach?
These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Adelaide.
If you’re a budget traveller, you’ll be well sorted with the numerous affordable hostels in Adelaide. Each of them offers a safe place to rest your head, the chance to meet like-minded travellers, and keep some money in your bank account! We’ve also got you covered if you’re on the lookout for a luxury hotel when you visit Adelaide too!
Photo: Normangerman (WikiCommons)
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Tequila Sunrise | Best Hostel in Adelaide
Tequila Sunrise is our favourite hostel in Adelaide. This hostel offers clean, comfortable, spacious and affordable accommodation right at the heart of Adelaide city centre. It has Laundry Facilities, air-conditioned rooms, and a Free Breakfast. Guests can also enjoy free wifi and Vending Machines.
Quest Port Adelaide | Best Hotel in Adelaide
Quest Port Adelaide is our favourite boutique hotel in Adelaide. It is situated at the centre of the Central Business District and is within walking distance of restaurants, shops and bars. Each apartment is equipped with air conditioning, a kitchenette and a refrigerator. There’s also free wifi and concierge services.
Two Bedroom in CBD | Best Airbnb in Adelaide
This two bedroom apartment is the perfect Airbnb for first-time visitors to Adelaide. With spacious rooms, it’s good enough for up to 4 people and has all the amenities you need. You can enjoy your free morning coffee on the balcony, or take a quick walk or bicycle ride to the Adelaide city centre where you can find attractions, restaurants and great cafes. It’s one of the best Airbnbs in Adelaide, so you’ll be in for a treat! You’re also close to public transportation options being in a central location.
Adelaide CBD
The CBD is the best neighbourhood to stay in Adelaide if you’re visiting the city for the first time. Set at the heart of the city, this neighbourhood covers just one square mile and is packed with exciting activities and interesting attractions.
Adelaide CBD
In addition to being the city’s central tourist hub, Adelaide CBD is also our top pick for where to stay if you’re travelling on a budget. Dotted throughout this compact city centre is a high concentration of Adelaide accommodation options that will meet any budget.
West End
The West End of downtown Adelaide is our best recommendation for where to stay in Adelaide for nightlife. Adelaide’s West End has been a hub for entertainment since the mid-20th century and today it boasts a high concentration of live music venues and dance clubs as well as wine bars, pubs, restaurants and cafes.
Port Adelaide
Port Adelaide is one of the coolest places to stay in Adelaide. This often-overlooked neighbourhood is located about 30 minutes northwest of the city centre.
North Adelaide
North Adelaide is our best recommendation for where to stay in Adelaide with kids. This charming neighbourhood is located north of the city centre and is bursting with fun and exciting things to see and do for travellers of all ages.
Backpacking Adelaide is a real mission. It’s a massive and sprawling city.
It is the capital and largest city in the state of South Australia and sits surrounded by verdant wine regions such as Barossa Valley and Adelaide Hills. The city is packed with an excellent variety of things to see and do.
From stunning architecture and vibrant culture to delicious food, excellent cafes, lively nightlife, wicked festivals and world-class sport at the Adelaide Oval. There’s something for everyone when you visit Adelaide.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best areas to stay in Adelaide based on your interests, budget and needs.
At the heart of the city is Adelaide Central Business District (CBD). This is the best neighborhood in Adelaide to stay in if you’re visiting for the first time because it’s where you’ll find the city’s most famous tourist attractions, landmarks, restaurants and shops.
In addition to all that, Adelaide CBD is also where you’ll find a high concentration of hostels, budget hotels and vacation rentals, making it our top pick for where to stay in Adelaide for one night, or if you’re on a budget. It’s also one of the best places to come if you’ve just arrived from an epic road trip to Adelaide.
The West End neighborhood is our number one choice for where to stay in Adelaide for nightlife because you can enjoy everything from lively pubs and exciting nightclubs to sophisticated wine bars and delectable eateries and it’s still a super central location.
Travel north from here to North Adelaide, our top recommendation for where to stay in Adelaide for families. This verdant and central neighborhood boasts an incredible selection of family-friendly activities and attractions including the Zoo and Botanic Gardens.
Finally, northwest of the city centre is Port Adelaide, one of the coolest places to stay in Adelaide. It has a vast array of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants as well as a selection of interesting museums and plenty of stunning sights. It’s also well connected to Adelaide city centre with public transport.
Want to save money on accommodation?
Enjoy 20% OFF on stays ALL around the world.
Adelaide’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best places to stay in Adelaide. Each is a little different from the last so be sure to read each section carefully and choose the neighborhood that’s the best fit for you!
1. Adelaide CBD – Where to Stay in Adelaide for Your First Time
The CBD is the best neighborhood to stay in Adelaide if you’re in the city for the first time or just want to visit for a weekend. Set at the heart of the city, this neighborhood covers just one square mile and is packed with exciting activities and interesting attractions. From historical landmarks and cultural institutions to vibrant bars and delicious restaurants, Adelaide city centre has something that will pique the interest of any and all travellers.
For history buffs, Adelaide CBD is the place to be. This small but lively neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most famous museums and art galleries, which showcase fabulous exhibits and fantastic displays. The Central Business District also has a great variety of accommodation from budget hotels to large Airbnbs and luxury hotels.
Tequila Sunrise | Best Hostel in Adelaide CBD
Tequila Sunrise is our favourite hostel in Adelaide. This hostel offers clean, comfortable and spacious accommodations right at the heart of the city. It has Laundry Facilities, air-conditioned rooms, and a Free Breakfast. Guests can also enjoy free wifi and Vending Machines.
Majestic Roof Garden Hotel | Best Hotel in Adelaide CBD
The Majestic Roof Garden Hotel is an excellent option for Adelaide accommodation. It is situated at the centre of the city and is close to popular shopping, sightseeing and dining areas. This chic hotel has modern and well-equipped rooms and a rooftop terrace that offers impressive city views. It’s one of the best Adelaide hotels if you’re on the lookout for a luxury hotel on a budget.
Pullman Adelaide | Best Hotel in Adelaide CBD
This excellent luxury hotel is one of the best places to stay in Adelaide. Centrally located in the CBD, you’ll find plenty of shops, restaurants, museums and attractions nearby. This boutique hotel boasts a sauna, a lap pool and a Jacuzzi as well as a delicious on-site restaurant.
Two Bedroom in CBD | Best Airbnb in Adelaide CBD
This two bedroom apartment is the perfect Airbnb for first-time visitors to Adelaide. With spacious rooms, it’s good enough for up to 4 people and has all the amenities you need. You can enjoy your free morning coffee on the balcony, or take a quick walk or bicycle ride to the Adelaide city centre where you can find attractions, restaurants and great cafes. It’s one of the best Airbnbs in Adelaide, so you’ll be in for a treat! You’re also close to public transportation options being in a central location.
Things to See and Do in Adelaide CBD
- Delve deep into history at the South Australian Museum.
- Dine on delicious Italian fare at Andre’s Cucina & Polenta Bar.
- Eat fresh and tasty meals at Chianti.
- Excite your sense at Jasmin Indian Restaurant.
- Feast on succulent and savoury Asian dishes throughout Adelaide’s Chinatown.
- Grab a quick snack at Roxies.
- See one of Australia’s finest art collections at the Art Gallery of South Australia.
- Shop until you drop at Rundle Mall – and don’t forget to snap a picture with the iconic Rundle Mall pigs.
- Step back in time at the Ayers House Museum.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey2. Adelaide CBD – Where to Stay in Adelaide on a Budget
In addition to being the city’s central tourist hub, Adelaide CBD is also our top pick for where to stay if you’re travelling on a budget. Dotted throughout this compact city centre is a high concentration of Adelaide accommodation options that will meet any budget.
From backpacker hostels and budget hotels to charming vacation rentals and chic homestays, Adelaide CBD is bursting with opportunities to enjoy the city and save a little money while you’re at it! It’s got some of the most impressive Adelaide hotels for the price and it’s super central too.
The CBD is also home to the incredible Central Market where you’ll find a vast array of stalls and shops selling cheap and delicious eats, sweets, treats and more!
Mercure Grosvenor Hotel Adelaide | Best Hotel in Adelaide CBD
This four-star hotel is ideally located in central Adelaide. It is close to Rundle Mall, the Railway Station and is well-connected throughout the city. Rooms are bright and offer free wireless internet along with modern amenities and features. There’s also a delicious on-site restaurant and comfortable lounge bar. It’s one of the chicest Adelaide hotels for sure.
The Soho Hotel an Ascend Hotel Collection Member | Best Hotel in Adelaide CBD
Modern and exciting, this is one of the best places to stay in Adelaide. It boasts a stunning rooftop pool and terrace as well as an in-house spa and wellness centre. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning and have a range of features to ensure guests have an exceptional stay in what is one of the most wonderful Adelaide hotels.
Adelaide City Cottage | Best Airbnb in Adelaide CBD
This private room in a townhouse is a great way to save a bit of money. It’s affordable, yet you’ll have the entire place to yourself, which includes a lovely outdoor dining area. The place has enough room for up to 4 guests, but you may have to get a bit creative since there are only 3 proper beds. The kitchen is fully equipped and you can even find an espresso machine.
Base Camp Hostel | Best Hostel in Adelaide CBD
This epic Adelaide hostel has got to be my fave in this part of Oz – it has everything you need to settle in as a backpacker in a new city. The stone structure is unique too as is the lovely terrace! I loved that the bunk beds are actually super comfy, and offer modern amenities like privacy curtains and personal little lights. They also have a female only dorm which is always a relief!
Things to See and Do in Adelaide CBD
- Browse the stacks at the incredible State Library of South Australia.
- Dive deep into the social history of migration in Australia at the Migration Museum.
- Eat well at Ying Chow.
- Grab a pint at the busy and buzzing Gilbert St Hotel.
- Indulge in fresh and delicious Asian and Korean dishes at Mandoo.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a peaceful day in sunny and beautiful Elder Park.
- Sample, snack and feast you want through the massive Adelaide Central Market.
- Snap a pic of the Slide, a unique bronze statue in central Adelaide.
3. West End – Where to Stay in Adelaide for Nightlife
The West End of downtown Adelaide is our best recommendation for where to stay in Adelaide for nightlife. Adelaide’s West End has been a hub for entertainment since the mid-20th century and today it boasts a high concentration of live music venues and dance clubs as well as wine bars, pubs, restaurants and cafes. So, if you want to dance the night away or enjoy a few glasses of local wine, Adelaide’s West End is the neighborhood for you!
Culture vultures will also love exploring the West End thanks to the progressive arts centres and cultural institutions as well as the dynamic design studios that call this neighborhood home.
Modern One Bedroom Apartment | Best Airbnb in West End
Staying in Adelaide to experience the nightlife, then this apartment is the right for you. You’ll have your own balcony where you can enjoy your morning coffee and a funky, colourful design throughout the unit. It’s also located close to restaurants and great bars and you can use the building’s pool, spa, and sauna. You’ve also got onsite parking available with an additional fee!
Adelaide Central YHA | Best Hostel in West End
This hostel is one of the best places in Adelaide to stay for nightlight because it is within walking distance of the best bars, clubs, restaurants and cafes. It offers newly renovated rooms with free wifi and new furniture and linens. This modern hostel also boasts a large kitchen, comfortable common room, air conditioning and more.
Peppers Waymouth Hotel | Best Hotel in West End
The Peppers Waymouth Hotel is ideally located for going out in Adelaide. It is a short stroll from popular restaurants and shops, as well as some of the best bars and clubs in the city. This five-star hotel has comfortable and modern rooms and provides a sauna, swimming pool and Jacuzzi.
The Playford Adelaide – MGallery by Sofitel | Best Hotel in West End
This historic hotel is in a great location, has a beautiful pool and a fantastic bar – it’s no wonder this is one of the best places in Adelaide to stay! This award-winning art-nouveau hotel has cosy rooms with comfortable beds and private bathrooms. There’s also a range of on-site features, like a restaurant and sauna.
Things to See and Do in West End
- Dine on delicious sushi at Shiki.
- Drink gin cocktails at Clever Little Tailor.
- Enjoy stunning views at Rocket Bar & Rooftop.
- Excite your sense at 2KW Bar and Restaurant.
- Feast on Australian food at Pink Moon Saloon.
- Grab snacks and drinks at Hains & Co.
- Head to Proof for hip cocktails and wine.
- Indulge at Georges on Waymouth.
- Pass through a hidden door and enjoy a great night out at Maybe Mae.
- Sip an excellent glass of wine at La Buvette.
- Spend a night at the Bank Street Social, a Prohibition-era speakeasy.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. Port Adelaide – Coolest Place to Stay in Adelaide, South Australia
Port Adelaide is one of the coolest places to stay in Adelaide. This often-overlooked neighborhood is located about 30 minutes northwest of the city centre. Still a working port, Port Adelaide has undergone a recent revival and is today home to hip pubs and trendy restaurants as well as shops, museums and landmarks. Here you can enjoy a range of activities and attractions away from the hoards of tourists as well as some great budget hotels.
This is without a doubt one of the best areas to stay in Adelaide for architecture buffs because it’s where you’ll find some of the best-preserved and most beautiful heritage buildings in South Australia.
Portside Retreat | Best Airbnb in Port Adelaide
This riverfront Airbnb in Australia is great if you want to stay in Port Adelaide, which is one of the coolest areas. Your portside home will be right next to the river, with a great path for long walks. You’re also very close to lots of restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy a nice evening. You’ve got a fenced-in backyard and courtyard along with a dedicated workspace and blazing fast wifi for my fellow digital nomads out there!
Nightcap at Exeter Hotel | Best Hostel in Port Adelaide
While not exactly a hostel, this budget hotel is the cheapest place to stay in Port Adelaide, the best area in Adelaide to stay in for hipsters and trendsetters. It is close to a variety of pubs, shops and restaurants, and offers easy access to the beach. This hotel has free parking and wifi, super comfy beds, and a myriad of other modern features. And the best part is it’s less than $100 USD for a large private room!
Quest Port Adelaide | Best Hotel in Port Adelaide
Quest Port Adelaide is our favourite hotel in Adelaide. It is situated at the centre of the neighborhood and is within walking distance of restaurants, shops and bars. Each apartment is equipped with air conditioning, a kitchenette and a refrigerator. There’s also free wifi and concierge services.
Urban Rest Port Adelaide Apartments | Best Hotel in Port Adelaide
I absolutely LOVED staying here and I have a feeling you will too. The trendy units are really apartments – which means so much extra space without the extra fees of Airbnb! The design is super modern and you’ll even get to enjoy a stunning balcony to take the city in. I found the hosts super helpful and the home is even stocked with all the kitchen utensils you may need.
Things to See and Do in Port Adelaide
- Browse the engaging National Railway Museum.
- Delve deep into the South Australian Aviation Museum.
- Dine on flavourful food at Spice N Ice Indian Restaurant.
- Feast on savoury and saucy dishes at Low & Slow American BBQ.
- Grab a pint at the Dockside Tavern.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Pancakes At The Port.
- Shop your way through Fishermen’s Wharf Market.
- Sip a cappuccino and enjoy a delicious breakfast at Dutch Coffee Lab.
- Visit the Port Adelaide Lighthouse.
5. North Adelaide – Where to Stay in Adelaide for Families
North Adelaide is our best recommendation for where to stay in Adelaide with kids. This charming neighborhood is located north of the city centre and is bursting with fun and exciting things to see and do for travellers of all ages.
This part of the city is best known for its expansive parks and green spaces. Here you can get back to nature or explore one of the many attractions that call these areas home, including the Adelaide Oval, the Adelaide Zoo and the Adelaide Botanical Garden.
But there’s more to North Adelaide than parks. North Adelaide is also well-known for its stately homes, heritage pubs, high-end boutiques and its cosy cafes.
Adelaide Meridien Hotel & Apartments | Best Hotel in North Adelaide
This four-star property is our top pick for where to stay in Adelaide for families because it offers good-value and spacious accommodations near the heart of the city. This unique hotel has excellent features, like a Jacuzzi and swimming pool, and offers free bike rentals and an a la carte breakfast.
North Adelaide Boutique Stays Accommodation | Best Hotel in North Adelaide
These apartments are a great option for where to stay in Adelaide with kids. This property is close to the Adelaide Zoo and Botanic Gardens and offers easy access to the CBD. Each apartment has modern décor, air-conditioning and free wifi. They also offer onsite bike rentals.
Majestic Old Lion Apartments | Best Hotel in North Adelaide
This property is centrally located in Adelaide and is close to popular shops, cafes and attractions. Each apartment has comfortable and traditional furnishings and comes complete with a kitchen, sofa bed and wifi. There’s also an on-site restaurant and relaxing bar.
Archer Street Apartment | Best Airbnb in North Adelaide
Staying with your family in this posh but affordable Airbnb is one of the best choices you can make. The heritage-listed home overlooks a treelined street and has detailed touches. Undoubtedly, the 41 sq metre deck ended up being my fave! I didn’t want to leave. There are two bedrooms and two bathrooms, so everyone in your family can enjoy their privacy. The ideal location is right in the centre of North Adelaide, with a walkability score of 100! You’ll be in a quiet street with cute cafes and parks around.
Things to See and Do in North Adelaide
- Excite your senses at Zapata’s Mexican.
- Feast on excellent Italian dishes at Ruby Red Flamingo.
- Marvel at the beautiful St. Peter’s Cathedral.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon surrounded by nature at Peace Park.
- See your favourite species of exotic and local mammals, reptiles, birds, fish and more at the Adelaide Zoo.
- Sink your teeth into a succulent burger at the Cathedral Hotel.
- Stop and smell the roses at the Adelaide Botanic Garden.
- Tour the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide’s historic cricket oval and events centre.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ’s on Where to Stay in Adelaide, South Australia
Choosing where to stay in a new city you’ve never been to can be really confusing and frustrating. To help you make the right decision, we’ve answered the most commonly asked questions on Adelaide and its neighborhoods, so you can plan your trip without any issues.
What To Pack For Adelaide, South Australia
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Adelaide, South Australia
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Adelaide, South Australia
Adelaide is a vibrant and exciting city that offers so much to travellers. It has an eclectic food scene, interesting art, great museums and lush natural surroundings. So whether you’re looking to relax, explore, party or shop, there’s something for everyone in sunny, central Adelaide.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the best areas to stay in Adelaide. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favourite accommodation options.
Base Camp Hostel is our favourite hostel because it has comfortable and spacious rooms with air-conditioning. They also provide free wifi, continental breakfast and key card access.
Another great option is the Quest Port Adelaide. Located in the hip Port Adelaide neighborhood, each apartment comes complete with a kitchenette and air-con to ensure maximum comfort.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Adelaide.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Adelaide.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Adelaide instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Adelaide to plan your trip.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Oceania backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
