Rugby travel news: Seven of the best things to see during a visit to Adelaide for the Lions vs AUNZ XV clash
The British and Irish Lions take on the AUNZ XV at Adelaide Oval this July, in what promises to be a fiercely contested fixture under the South Australian sky.
As rugby fans converge on the Festival State, they’ll find a city that blends world-class sport with culinary delights, cultural charm, and coastal escapes.
Here, Travel News Blitz’s Sam Condy highlights seven must-see experiences in Adelaide during Lions week.
Adelaide Oval Tour
Before match day, book a behind-the-scenes tour of Adelaide Oval.
The tour visits the players' tunnel, the home and away dressing rooms, and even offers the opportunity to sit in the coaches’ box - all the while being taken through a comprehensive guide to the stadium's storied history.
It’s the perfect stop to get you into the sporting mood ahead of the big match.
Central Market
One of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest undercover markets, Adelaide Central Market is a feast for the senses.
Stallholders sell everything from fresh seafood and artisan cheese to exotic spices and gourmet street food.
It’s an ideal spot for a pre-game snack or a relaxed lunch between sessions.
Rundle Mall
Rundle Mall is the city’s main shopping hub, but it houses far more than just boutique shopping locations.
Street performers, public art installations, and historic arcades lend character to this bustling pedestrian mall.
Grab a coffee and soak up the local vibe before heading to the Oval.
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Barossa Valley Day Trip
Less than an hour’s drive from the city, the Barossa Valley is one of the world’s great wine regions.
Spend a day tasting cool-climate shiraz and riesling at family-run cellars, enjoy a vineyard-side lunch, all while taking in the breathtaking, and extremely profitable, scenery.
Glenelg Beach
A tram ride from the city lies Glenelg Beach, an incredible waterfront that mimics the stereotypical Australian lifestyle seen on TV.
Swim in calm waters, stroll the jetty, or explore Jetty Road’s cafés and boutiques. As the sun dips into Gulf St Vincent, it’s a postcard-perfect setting for a post-match drink.
Art Gallery of South Australia
Culture buffs should head to North Terrace’s Gallery of SA.
Its collection ranges from Indigenous masterpieces to contemporary works by local and international artists.
The light-filled galleries and striking architecture make it a peaceful counterpoint to the crowd roar.
Adelaide Botanic Garden
Nestled on the edge of the CBD, the Botanic Garden is a leafy oasis of formal lawns, tropical glasshouses, and heritage trees.
Wander through the fragrant rose garden, relax beneath a century-old kauri pine, or enjoy high tea in the greenhouse-like tearoom.
Summary
Adelaide may be a rugby stopover, but it delivers much more than the Oval’s floodlights.
From world-class wines and beachside sunsets to food markets and leafy gardens, this compact capital offers a diverse itinerary for every fan.
Whether you’re cheering in the stands or exploring the city, Adelaide’s warm welcome and varied activities are sure to leave a lasting impression.
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