The founders of South Australia's capital were mainly German and Italian immigrants - no convicts for this demure city! As a result Adelaide has a distinctive continental charm; so much so that it's often called "Australia's Little Europe".
A love of fine food, great wine and an appreciation of history are all legacies of the pioneering settlers.
That same heritage is reflected in the biennial Adelaide Festival of Arts which attracts performers and visitors from all over the world.
Adelaide's wide streets, open squares and leafy parks - the result of wonderful foresight by 1837 surveyor Col. William Light - are made for walking. You can cover the city in a couple of hours, and around every corner you'll discover offices and designer boutiques housed in gracious Victorian and Edwardian buildings decorated with intricate lace ironwork.
North Terrace, lined with galleries and museums, leads to the cool of the Botanic Garden. Rundle Street, running parallel, is lined with sidewalk cafes, bars and restaurants. The perfect place for a break.
It's said there are more restaurants per capita here than anywhere else in Australia, including Melbourne. Our advice? Succumb to the temptation to dine out frequently!
Adelaide is also the wine capital of Australia and six out of the country's top 10 wines are made within a few hours' drive. Is this paradise or what?
Adelaide is a marvellous city for shopping. Allow plenty of time to visit all the top-flight stores in Rundle Mall, and get down to the Central Market early in the morning to catch the heady array of enticing tastes and smells from all the fresh, locally grown produce.
Nor is this cultivated lady too prim to take her hair down at the end of the day. There's plenty of nightlife in the West End - be sure to check out Hindley St.
Take a day trip in the surrounding hills where the immigrant farmers set up. A must-see is picturesque Hahndorf. Although clearly geared to tourists, the descendants of its German founders have kept the genuine traditions alive, including German architecture, baking and arts and crafts. Well worth your time.
While you're out, visit one of Adelaide's many wildlife sanctuaries where you can get up close and personal with Australian animals.
Adelaide has fabulous uncrowded white sand beaches. Combine two treats in one and take the Glenelg beach tram from the centre of town.
And don't forget an excursion on the Victor Harbour, where every type of pleasure craft is available for charter or hire.
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Must do in Adelaide
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