Adelaide Public Transport and How to Get Around
Use Adelaide's rail network
Adelaide's rail network is an affordable and reliable way to explore attractions outside of the city. Travellers buying flights Melbourne to Adelaide can use the trains to reach destinations such as Port Adelaide and Semaphore. The trains depart every 20 to 30 minutes, and fares cost between $3.70 to $5.60 AUD ($3.89 to $5.88 NZD) depending on when and where you travel.
Go for a ride on the tram
The tram service operates between the city centre and the inner suburbs. It's a convenient way for those travelling on Melbourne to Adelaide return flights to get around. You can use it to reach places such as Glenelg, Adelaide Central Market and West End. The trams run every 10 to 15 minutes from 7am to midnight.
Save money with the public buses
Adelaide's bus service is an excellent option for those booking cheap flights to Adelaide from Melbourne who want to stick to a tighter budget. There is a free City Connector service that operates in the city centre with multiple loops available. Some of the attractions along the bus route include the South Australian Museum, Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Adelaide Oval and Adelaide Zoo.
Rent a car
One of the best ways to get around Adelaide is to hire a car. It will give you all the freedom you need to explore the top sights around the city, plus you will be able to head out to see more of regional South Australia - such as Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and the Barossa - should you choose. When booking your cheap flights Melbourne to Adelaide with Webjet, you can add car hire at check out. When your flights arrive, your car will be waiting for you at Adelaide Airport (ADL).
Transport from Adelaide Airport (ADL)
The best and cheapest way to get from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to your accommodation is with the JetExpress bus. Passengers arriving on Melbourne to Adelaide flights can take the service to reach many of the city’s downtown hotels. For a more convenient way to commute from the airport, passengers buying Melbourne to Adelaide flights can grab a cab.
There is a taxi rank outside of the terminal to the left of the pedestrian plaza. A one-way trip will cost about $25 AUD ($26.26 NZD) and take 15 minutes to reach Adelaide CBD. Keep in mind that you'll there is also a $3 AUD ($3.15 NZD) levy for all taxis leaving the airport.
The Best Time to Visit Adelaide
The best time to visit Adelaide is between the city's two shoulder seasons. From March to May and September to November, there are few rain clouds in sight and daytime temperatures are comfortable. You'll also have an easier time finding deals on tickets to Adelaide from Melbourne and hotel rates may be lower. However, you'll want to plan your trip around the beginning of March if you're searching for cheap flights Melbourne to Adelaide.
Several top events take place in March, such as Adelaide Fringe, Adelaide Festival and WOMADelaide and the popularity of these goings-on can see flight prices increase. The city's winter months (June to August) are when holidaymakers on a budget should look to book flights Melbourne to Adelaide. The weather can be slightly dreary, but those that brave the cold temperatures will be rewarded with airfare and hotel deals.
December to February is high season for the city. Tourists from around Australia and around the world come to the city for the end-of-year holidays. If you buy your tickets to Adelaide from Melbourne over these months, you can attend Adelaide Fringe. It's the largest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere!
Tips for First-Time Travellers to Adelaide
Buy Adelaide's metroCard
If you know you're going to use Adelaide's buses, trains and trams to get around, it's worth purchasing the metroCard Visitor Pass. It will give you three days of unlimited travel. Once your flights Melbourne to Adelaide arrive, you can collect your metroCard at the airport, the Adelaide Railway Station or from the Adelaide Metro Info Centre.
Safety in Adelaide
Adelaide is a safe destination for families, couples or solo travellers buying cheap flights to Adelaide from Melbourne. Petty crime is something that you'll need to watch out for. Keep an eye on your possessions and use anti-theft backpacks.
Explore Adelaide's food scene
While Melbourne is still the culinary powerhouse in Australia, Adelaide is quickly becoming a rival. It's one of the top foodie destinations in the country and is brimming with exciting fine dining restaurants, food events and wine tasting opportunities. One of the best things to do for foodies buying flights Melbourne to Adelaide is to take a day trip to one of the wine-producing regions within easy driving distance of the city. Adelaide Hills is the closest, but McLaren Vale, the Barossa and Clare Valley are also within reach.