posted on April 9, 2024
For adventurers looking to experience the best Australia has to offer, the Adelaide to Brisbane drive has it all. From the rolling hills of South Australia’s top wineries boasting culinary delights and cellar door tours to the coastal towns of New South Wales and Brisbane’s vibrant culture, there’s no shortage of fun to be had on the Adelaide to Brisbane road trip.
Covering a distance of 2,007 kilometres on the most direct route, this Adelaide road trip is a relatively lengthy one. Whether you want to experience the scenery of Australia’s top national parks with their abundance of native flora and wildlife or want to relax on iconic beaches, you’ll have plenty of time to see it all.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover:
- An overview of the Adelaide to Brisbane road trip
- Your road trip map from Adelaide to Brisbane
- Top tips for driving from Adelaide to Brisbane
- The best driving itineraries for the Adelaide to Brisbane road trip
- Top places to stop between Adelaide and Brisbane
- How to plan the perfect family road trip from Adelaide to Brisbane
- Frequently asked questions about the Adelaide to Brisbane drive
Plan your drive: An overview of the Adelaide to Brisbane road trip
From the delicious food scenes of Adelaide’s top restaurants to Queensland’s stunning walking trails and diverse landscapes, the Adelaide to Brisbane road trip is sure to be an epic journey, no matter your travel preferences.
- Route options:
- Direct route: 2,007 km, 22 hours of driving time
- Vineyards and rich history tour (10 days): 2,366 km, 26 hours and 45 minutes of driving time
- East Coast adventure (10 days): 3,018 km, 36 hours of driving time
- Top stops: Barossa Valley, Mungo National Park, Wagga Wagga, Broken Hill, Blue Mountains National Park, Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Coffs Harbour, Mount Pleasant, Byron Bay, Toowoomba and the Gold Coast.
- Best time to drive from Adelaide to Brisbane: Brisbane can reach soaring temperatures in summer and is known to be quite humid. Spring and autumn are the best times to drive from Adelaide as you can expect fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation options between September and November, as well as March to May.
Adelaide to Brisbane drive time
The most direct route from Adelaide to Brisbane offers a drive time of roughly 22 hours. This route will see you follow the National Highway M1 and National Highway A1 out of Adelaide before joining the Sturt Highway/A20 in Balranald. However, tolls are to be expected on this route, and the drive duration does not take into account any detours or stops made along the way.
Adelaide to Brisbane road trip distance
Along the fastest route, the drive from Adelaide to Brisbane covers a distance of 2,007 kilometres (via the National Highway M1 and the Sturt Highway/A20).
What to know before you go: Tips for the road trip from Adelaide to Brisbane
No matter what route you take from Adelaide to Brisbane, you’ll drive on well-maintained and sealed roads that make for a seamless travel experience. Even so, consider these expert tips to help maximise your road trip and ensure you’re prepared for whatever the journey may have in store.
Driving conditions and staying safe on the roads
If you’re looking to take on the Adelaide to Brisbane road trip, you can expect to drive on smooth, well-maintained roads for the most part. That said, as you enter New South Wales and drive along the East Coast of Australia, you can expect tight turns and narrow bends.
With a sizeable distance to cover on four wheels, we highly suggest planning ahead so you avoid any unnecessary stress and potential delays out there on the road.
- Share the drive: To stay alert behind the wheel, it’s important to take plenty of breaks and share the drive with a second driver. If taking on the road trip alone, be sure to pull over frequently to stretch your legs and refuel every two hours.
- Avoid driving at peak times: The summer months between December to February are peak tourist season, so you can expect the roads to be considerably busier. If possible, avoid tackling this road trip during peak season.
- Book a car: If you’re not using your own vehicle, consider booking a hire car in Adelaide that suits your preferences and travel needs. Turo gives you the freedom to select a vehicle tailored to your journey so you can experience the best of South Australia and Queensland. If you’re doing this road trip in reverse, you can also book a car from Turo in Brisbane instead.
- Start early: Begin your journey with the sun by setting off early in the day. Not only does this offer the chance to witness breathtaking sunrise views, but it also helps you beat the rush hour traffic, allowing for a smooth, stress-free drive.
Tip from the author: During the drive from Adelaide to Brisbane, you’ll pass through several different time zones. Both Adelaide and Broken Hill observe Australian Central Daylight Time during daylight savings, and Australian Central Standard Time otherwise. However, NSW and Victoria operate on Australian Eastern Daylight Time during daylight savings and Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) when daylight saving time is not in effect. Remember that Queensland doesn’t observe daylight savings, instead operating year-round on AEST.
Petrol stations and EV chargers along the way
Petrol stations and EV chargers are conveniently located throughout the drive from Adelaide to Brisbane. You’ll find numerous opportunities to refuel with petrol stations located in major cities and towns throughout South Australia as you then journey into Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.
For those driving an electric vehicle, Chargefox and Tesla Supercharger provide networks across the Queensland region, New South Wales, and Adelaide. EV Connect also provides a network of charging stations in regions across South Australia should you be looking to venture further from the city.
Tip from the author: It’s worthwhile planning your refuelling and charging stops before departure in each town. Use a free interactive map like Plugshare to easily locate the nearest place to top up or recharge.
What kind of vehicle is best for this epic road trip?
The best vehicle for the Adelaide to Brisbane drive is the one you feel most comfortable with. For those requiring more space for family or extra cargo, consider a spacious SUV. Given that it’s a sizeable distance to travel, though, you need to ensure that whatever vehicle you choose can manage up to 20 hours of driving over a seven- to fourteen-day period.
Want to road-test your dream car or treat yourself to a unique set of wheels? Hire a car in Adelaide from a local Turo host.
Choose your Adelaide to Brisbane road trip itinerary
A road trip from Adelaide to Brisbane features the best Australia has to offer by way of stunning coastlines, national parks, native wildlife, and foodie delights. No matter what you choose, these two road trip itineraries offer plenty of outdoor activities, adventures, and opportunities for sightseeing.
Option 1: Vineyards and rich history (10-day road trip itinerary)
- Driving time: 26 hours and 45 minutes
- Driving distance: 2,366 kilometres
- Day-by-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Adelaide to Mount Pleasant (63 kilometres, 1 hour 5 minutes)
- Day 2: Mount Pleasant to Murray Bridge (52 kilometres, 40 minutes)
- Day 3: Murray Bridge to Renmark (218 kilometres, 2 hours 25 minutes)
- Day 4: Renmark to Mildura (138 kilometres, 1 hour 35 minutes)
- Day 5: Mildura to Broken Hill (294 kilometres, 3 hours 10 minutes)
- Day 6: Broken Hill to Cobar (456 kilometres, 4 hours 45 minutes)
- Day 7: Cobar to Dubbo (296 kilometres, 3 hours 10 minutes)
- Day 8: Dubbo to Bingara (371 kilometres, 4 hours 15 minutes)
- Day 9: Bingara to Toowoomba (351 kilometres, 4 hours)
- Day 10: Toowoomba to Brisbane (127 kilometres, 1 hour 45 minutes)
- Best for: Foodies looking to soak up the best South Australia has to offer by way of vineyards and restaurants. Of course, you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside as you venture out of Adelaide towards Brisbane.
The foodie adventure begins immediately on this road trip, with a detour to the Barossa Valley first up on the agenda. With award-winning wines and incredible vineyards to explore, we recommend joining a Barossa Valley Wineries Tour or hiring a bike so you can do the cellar door experience yourself without spending too much time on foot.
As you make your way out of Adelaide, be sure to stop at Mount Pleasant where you can enjoy the local Farmers Market with an abundance of fresh food stalls and tasty treats. You’ll continue to find local vineyards in the area as you journey towards Renmark and Murray Bridge, all of which offer wine tastings paired with local flavours.
The drive from Mildura to Broken Hill promises beautiful national parks, so be sure to stretch your legs along the countless walking trails before taking in the rich history of these towns. In Cobar, you’ll be treated to panoramic views over the city and countryside at Fort Bourke Hill Lookout, while you can also take in the old buildings and architecture in town. You’ll find plenty of things to do as you make your way to Dubbo, including a visit to the incredible Taronga Western Plains Zoo, which receives over a million visitors per year.
In Toowoomba, be sure to visit the Botanic Gardens and soak up the history of the town with a visit to the War Memorial Park and Toowoomba City Museum. Finally, you’ll make your way to Brisbane, where you can take in the vibrant cultural centre of the riverside city or explore further afield. With its incredible shopping district and wide open spaces, you’ll find there’s so much more to explore, even if the road trip has reached its final destination.
Option 2: East Coast Adventure (10-day road trip itinerary)
- Driving time: 36 hours
- Driving distance: 3,018 kilometres
- Day-by-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Adelaide to Mount Gambier (435 kilometres, 4 hours 38 minutes)
- Day 2: Mount Gambier to Port Fairy (154 kilometres, 1 hour 56 minutes)
- Day 3: Port Fairy to Apollo Bay (185 kilometres, 2 hours 42 minutes)
- Day 4: Apollo Bay to Melbourne (197 kilometres, 2 hours 39 minutes)
- Day 5: Melbourne to Lakes Entrance (318 kilometres, 3 hours 49 minutes)
- Day 6: Lakes Entrance to Jervis Bay (578 kilometres, 7 hours 6 minutes)
- Day 7: Jervis Bay to Sydney (208 kilometres, 2 hours 45 minutes)
- Day 8: Sydney to Port Macquarie (393 kilometres, 4 hours 10 minutes)
- Day 9: Port Macquarie to Byron Bay (386 kilometres, 4 hours 3 minutes)
- Day 10: Byron Bay to Brisbane (166 kilometres, 2 hours)
- Best for: Nature lovers looking for a scenic route that promises diverse landscapes and outdoor adventures. From hiking to whale watching and water activities, you’ll be treated to turquoise waters and charming coastal towns, as well as mountain ranges and lush rainforests.
As you journey to Mount Gambier, consider visiting the Blue Lake and Umpherston Sinkhole before continuing on to the beautiful Port Fairy. From there, drive along the Great Ocean Road to Apollo Bay, where you’ll be able to take in iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Otway National Park. Be sure to leave enough time to explore Melbourne when you arrive in the city, which boasts many interesting sights, including Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Melbourne Museum.
Once you’ve made your way to the Lakes Entrance, you’ll be treated to some of Australia’s most iconic beaches, such as Ninety Mile Beach. Consider stopping at UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Croajingolong National Park, where you can hike along numerous walking trails or simply soak up the tranquillity.
Jervis Bay is the perfect destination to enjoy whale watching, snorkelling, or kayaking on the clear water. Be sure to visit Hyams Beach, which is known for having some of the whitest sand in the world. Jervis Bay is also a great base point for those wanting to explore the outdoors with a visit to Booderee National Park.
As you continue your drive north to Port Macquarie, you’ll be able to take in key attractions like the Tacking Point Lighthouse before making your way north to Byron Bay as you pass through Coffs Harbour. With plenty to explore in Byron Bay, be sure to leave early on your travels to grant yourself enough time to soak up the vibrant culture, boutique stalls, and lush rainforest scenery. Then, make your way to Brisbane for its delicious food and renowned nightlife.
Top places to stop on the Adelaide to Brisbane drive
From cellar door tours taking in South Australia’s most famed wineries to the sprawling national parks dotting the East Coast of Australia, there’s no shortage of things to see and do on the Adelaide to Brisbane drive.
Best national parks between Adelaide and Brisbane
South Australia might be known for its delicious food, but the drive from Adelaide to Brisbane offers nature lovers some of Australia’s most breathtaking national parks, including:
- Flinders Ranges National Park (South Australia): North of Adelaide, you’ll find this incredible national park that boasts stunning landscapes of rugged mountains and deep gorges. With plenty of walking trails, you’ll be treated to panoramic views and incredible photo opportunities.
- Murray River National Park (South Australia): With views over the iconic Murray River, this national park is teeming with native wildlife, including kangaroos and bird species. You can either hike amongst the trees or enjoy a boating excursion along the water, with a spot of fishing.
- Mungo National Park (NSW): With its rich Aboriginal history and stunning landscapes, Mungo National Park is a must-see for nature lovers. Take in the Walls of China – ancient sand dunes that have been eroded over time – or hike to Red Top Lookout for incredible views.
- Blue Mountains National Park (NSW): A journey to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park won’t disappoint. Take in the Three Sisters, hike to Wentworth Falls, or explore the hiking trails through the National Pass Trail and the Grand Canyon Track.
- Girraween National Park (Queensland): Situated near the NSW-Queensland border, Girraween National Park is renowned for its unique granite rock formations and hiking trails. You’ll be able to take in landmarks like the Sphinx, Turtle Rock, and Granite Arch with a walking trail through the park, while a visit in spring will see the wildflowers come to life.
- Main Range National Park (Queensland): Located within the Scenic Rim just south of Brisbane, this iconic national park offers diverse landscapes, including waterfalls and lush rainforests. Hike to the summit of Mount Cordeaux or Mount Mitchell for unbeatable views of the surrounding area.
Best beaches between Adelaide and Brisbane
Fancy relaxing on the beach, whale watching, dolphin spotting, or simply taking a dip in crystal clear waters? These beaches are a must-visit for anyone making the journey from Adelaide to Brisbane!
- Glenelg Beach: With its golden sand and calm waters, Glenelg is the perfect beach to sit back and relax. Take part in a range of water activities like snorkelling or paddleboarding, or enjoy a picnic on the jetty.
- Bondi Beach: This iconic beach is known for its golden sand and optimal surfing conditions. Dine at the famous Bondi Icebergs, or take a dip in the Bondi Icebergs Club pool, which offers views of the coastline. Nature lovers can also hike the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, which is approximately 6 kilometres (one way) and takes in breathtaking views of the coastline.
- Hyams Beach: With its clear white sand, Hyams Beach is a popular tourist attraction located in the city of Shoalhaven on the shores of Jervis Bay. Known for its whale watching, those looking to spot humpback whales and other species should visit during migration season, which typically runs from May to November.
- Wategos Beach: From Cape Byron lighthouse, head north and you’ll find one of Byron Bay’s most iconic beaches, drawing international tourists and Hollywood celebrities to its shores.
- Surfers Paradise Beach: With its golden sands and beachfront markets, Surfer’s Paradise Beach is a must-see attraction. Stroll along the promenade and visit the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, first established in 1924.
Best foodie destinations between Adelaide and Brisbane
With culinary destinations to be found in South Australia and Queensland, it’s worth taking time to savour the fresh produce and delicious flavours served up at cafes and restaurants along your route. Here are some of our top picks when it comes to foodie stops on your drive!
- Daughter in Law (Adelaide): Known for its unique Indian-inspired dishes that blend Western and Asian influences, the flavours here have put this restaurant on the map. The interior is as stunning as the dishes themselves.
- Penfolds Magil Estate (Adelaide): Set in the foothills of Adelaide with views over the stunning Penfolds vineyards and city, this award-winning menu includes locally sourced produce boasting incredible flavour. You can also explore the vineyard’s underground tunnels with a rich history dating back to 1844.
- Barossa Valley (South Australia): As South Australia’s wine region, the Barossa Valley offers plenty of iconic wineries known for their premium wines, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned restaurants. Consider a visit to Seppeltsfield Winery and Henschke Winery, and dine at the Appellation at The Louise or Hentley Farm Restaurant for a unique experience overlooking the vineyard.
- Osteria Oggi (Adelaide): As one of the best Italian restaurants in Adelaide, don’t pass up the opportunity to dine in a setting that features concrete carved arches and a curved marble bar. Expect handmade pasta and slow-cooked meats, with an exceptional Italian wine list to match.
- Three Blue Ducks at The Farm, Byron Bay: Set on a stunning working farm you can tour on arrival, expect paddock-to-plate dining and local produce.
- GRECA (Brisbane): With its waterfront views and Greek menu, you’ll wish you were a local. The menu revolves around charcoal and wood fire grills, and seafood is a specialty here.
- Sutton’s Juice Factory (Queensland): Located in an old packing shed, Sutton’s Juice Factory is a family favourite. With products crafted from the orchard’s apples, you’ll be treated to delicious food and beverages, including a variety of apple juice and apple cider that you’ll be raving about for months!
How to plan the perfect family road trip from Adelaide to Brisbane
Looking for a road trip the whole family can enjoy over the school holidays? With some careful planning and helpful tips, you can turn this drive into the ultimate kid-friendly drive that’s guaranteed to be a memorable adventure for all involved. Before you hit the road, consider these tips to ensure a smooth journey.
- Book accommodation in advance: Regardless of family size, it’s best to plan your accommodation ahead of time. Given the likelihood of increased rates and accommodation booking out during peak season, getting your booking in earlier will likely save you money and grant you more options.
- Plan pit stops at parks or playgrounds: With certain stops requiring lengthy drives, it’s important to take plenty of pit stops. To ensure the kids are happy, plan your breaks around parks or playgrounds where they’ll be able to play and release some energy after time spent in the car.
- Pack plenty of snacks and water: While there are plenty of opportunities to fuel up on the drive and stock up on snacks and other essentials at service stations, ensuring you have nutritious snacks like sandwiches and fruit on hand for the little ones will take the stress out of your journey.
Top kid-friendly places to stop
- Big Banana Fun Park: Take a detour to Coffs Harbour to pose in front of the Big Banana. You can visit the fun park that also features the biggest water park between Sydney and the Gold Coast.
- Taronga Western Plains Zoo: If driving inland, make the detour to Dubbo, where you’ll be treated to this immersive safari experience. With over 45 exhibits and 4,000 animals, kids will be amazed by the creatures to be found roaming the plains. Whether you’re staying overnight or just passing through, it’s an unforgettable experience the whole family will love.
- Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Covering an expansive area in Brisbane, this koala sanctuary allows kids to get up close and personal with the cuddly koalas while learning more about conservation and rescue efforts. The sanctuary is also home to 80 species of Australian animals, so there will be plenty to explore.
- The Farm, Byron Bay: Though known primarily for its delicious food, The Farm offers plenty of kid-friendly activities. From playing with the cute animals to various educational programs, kids can learn more about farming, cooking, and community fun.
- Dolphin Sea Kayak Tour: Take a detour to Byron Bay and enjoy the Dolphin Sea Kayak tours that take you to see local dolphins playing in the surf. Kids can also take part in the Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue in Ballina, where they’ll see turtles up close and learn more about the conservation work in the area.
- Gold Coast Theme Parks: From Brisbane, make your way to the Gold Coast which offers a range of theme parks to keep everyone entertained. As the largest theme park in Australia, Dreamworld demands a visit.
Brisbane road trip guide: Keep the drive going
Just because you’ve arrived in Brisbane doesn’t mean fun times on the road have to come to an end. Hang onto your car keys and consider one of these epic road trip itineraries from Brisbane.
The best drives from Brisbane
- Brisbane to Noosa
- Brisbane to Byron Bay
- Brisbane to Rockhampton
- Brisbane to Sydney
- Brisbane to Cairns
- The Ultimate East Coast Adventure
Adelaide to Brisbane drive: Frequently asked questions
Can you complete the Adelaide to Brisbane drive in reverse?
Of course! Simply reverse the itinerary outlined above and you’ll be able to experience the incredible sights of Queensland and the vibrant culture of Brisbane before making your way along the coast as you venture to the rolling hills and sweeping vistas South Australia is known for.
Can I get a flight from Adelaide to Brisbane?
Direct flights run from Adelaide to Brisbane throughout the year. The average length of the flight is 2 to 2.5 hours. However, this can differ depending on the airline and weather conditions. Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar all offer year-round flights, which serve as the quickest way to get between the two cities. That said, you won’t be able to take in the many sights or detours along the way or have the luxury of travelling at your own pace.
Is it worth driving from Adelaide to Brisbane?
Absolutely! No matter what route you choose or your travel preferences, the drive from Adelaide to Brisbane is guaranteed to see you take in some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, incredible sightseeing, and natural beauty. And, by making it a drive, you’ll experience the beauty of these regions at your own pace, allowing you to choose your stops based on your travel preferences.
What is the best time of year to travel from Adelaide to Brisbane?
The summer months between December and February bring an influx of tourists to both cities and popular attractions along the way. Not surprisingly, it can make for a more stressful driving experience on the road, especially when there’s more traffic. Generally, the months of September to November are the best time to travel, with spring offering mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and the blooming of wildflowers in national parks, which makes for a great photo opportunity.
Final advice for the Adelaide to Brisbane drive of a lifetime
It may be a multi-day adventure, but the Adelaide to Brisbane drive promises an unforgettable road trip filled with gastronomic delights at South Australia’s world-renowned wineries and restaurants and stunning panoramic views of the diverse landscapes. From rolling hills and open plains to the lush greenery of the mountain ranges and turquoise waters found in charming coastal towns, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Sure to leave an impression on every travel enthusiast, it’s not hard to see why this road trip sits high atop the list of many a local and international tourist alike. Want to secure the perfect ride for your Adelaide to Brisbane road trip? With Turo, you’ll find unique cars you can’t find anywhere else, ready to be delivered to you from a local Turo host.
Why not keep the road trip going? With so much more to explore beyond Brisbane, consider extending your journey with one of the best road trips from Brisbane.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
