Once called the ‘Athens of the South’, Adelaide is one of Australia’s less-obvious pleasures; an orderly, cosmopolitan city encircled by parklands, graced with unique stone architecture and famed for its internationally renowned arts festivals.

Many of Adelaide’s highlights are located at the northern end of its gridded city centre, on (or within walking distance of) grand North Tce. Among them are the Art Gallery of South Australia, South Australian Museum, Botanic Gardens of South Australia and architecturally striking National Wine Centre of Australia, home to Australia’s largest cellar door.

Wine is one of the region’s major draws and some of the country’s finest wine regions are within day-trip distance of the city, including the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale.

Other Adelaide musts include epicurean Valhalla Adelaide Central Market and the cafe-laded strips of Rundle St East and adjoining Ebenezer Pl.

From central Adelaide, trams hum southwest to the historic beachside suburb of Glenelg, an atmospheric spot for an ocean dip, stroll, bite or drink.