posted on 23 February 2024
The Adelaide to Canberra drive takes you from the country’s southern shores to the heart of Australia’s southeast as you arrive in the nation’s capital city. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning landscapes, picturesque views, and vibrant local culture.
A road trip from Adelaide to Canberra affords the opportunity to take in some of Australia’s most breathtaking drives as you venture to Melbourne’s Great Ocean Road or tackle Alpine Way in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales. From unbeatable national parks and walking trails to the historic sites, museums, and galleries of the Australian Capital Territory, there’s something for everyone on an Adelaide to Canberra road trip.
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Adelaide to Canberra drive: overview and top tips
- Adelaide to Canberra in 2 days: Express Route
- Adelaide to Canberra in 5 days: The Great Ocean Road Route
- Adelaide to Canberra in 7ays: The Alpine Route
- Top food spots on the drive
An overview of the Adelaide to Canberra road trip
With an Adelaide to Canberra drive, you combine the best of both worlds: the wine country South Australia is known for, and the historic sites and rich history that the Australian Capital Territory is home to, including Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial. Though the drive is relatively short, I had plenty to see, do, and explore along the way.
- Driving distance: 1,159 km
- Drive duration: 12 hours 30 minutes
- Scenic delights: Before departing Adelaide, consider visiting world-renowned wineries in the Adelaide Hills. Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, Murray River, Swan Hill, Murrumbidgee River, Great Ocean Road, and Mount Kosciuszko National Park are just some of the key attractions to see along the way.
Driving conditions: What is the road from Adelaide to Canberra like?
The route from Adelaide to Canberra is largely on sealed roads which is sure to keep your wheels happy and make for a comfortable drive.
That said, weather conditions are sure to impact driving conditions. It’s not uncommon to experience heavy rain, fog, and high winds, particularly during the colder months as you drive from Adelaide to Canberra. In these adverse conditions, be sure to adjust your speed, stay alert, and check the weather forecast ahead of departure.
Tip from the author: For those wishing to make the detour to Kosciuszko National Park on this drive, know that snow chains are compulsory between June and October when driving a 2WD. They are also recommended for those in 4WD and AWD vehicles, too.
Petrol stations and EV chargers from Adelaide to Canberra
Petrol stations are found throughout the drive from Adelaide to Canberra, particularly near the major cities.
You’ll find EV chargers conveniently located in the Barossa Valley, Tanunda, Berri, Mildura, Balranald, Hay, Narrandera, Wagga Wagga, and Jugiong. Most are located near amenities and cafes, meaning you can stock up on anything you might need along the way. The distances between chargers are certainly manageable, making for convenient charging stops. However, it’s important to plan ahead and ensure you know the distance between charging and fuel stations.
Tip from the author: Take the stress out of finding your next charging stop and ensure you plan ahead by checking the availability and compatibility of the charging stations on your route. PlugShare offers a helpful app and website to locate EV charging stations, and information on the various networks along your route.
What to bring on an Adelaide to Canberra drive
Every road trip needs the essentials of a great playlist, snacks, and plenty of water. To make the most of your trip and savour the scenic beauty that awaits, we recommend packing casual, loose-fitting clothing and plenty of sun protection to ensure you can safely enjoy the numerous sights, hikes, and scenic vistas.
Naturally, your packing list will vary depending on the activities you want to do and the sights you wish to see along the way. For those who want to enjoy the outdoors, consider choosing optional extras like camping gear or a portable BBQ thanks to Turo’s local hosts.
Expert tips and things to remember before you go
Make the most of your Adelaide to Canberra road trip with these invaluable tips that ensure a safe, seamless ride and memorable travel experience.
- Start early: Begin your journey with the sun by setting off early in the day. It’ll deliver some incredible views as you drive through landscapes at sunrise, but also ensure you beat the rush hour traffic, making for a smoother, stress-free drive.
- Share the drive: Make numerous stops along the way and share the drive where possible if travelling with a companion or friends. To beat fatigue, we recommend breaking every two hours to ensure you stay fresh and alert behind the wheel.
- Take note of different states’ driving rules: With the drive taking you through South Australia, Victoria, and the ACT, it’s important to check any changes to speed limits or road rules along the way.
- Book a car: If you’re not using your own vehicle, consider car rental in Adelaide that suits your travel preferences and needs. Turo gives you the freedom to select a vehicle tailored to your journey so you can experience the best of Adelaide and the ACT. If you’re doing this road trip in reverse, you can also book a car on Turo in Canberra instead.
Discover the perfect driving itinerary: Adelaide to Canberra
Ready to hit the road? Choose the perfect Adelaide to Canberra driving itinerary from the options below.
Route 1: Adelaide to Canberra in 2 days
- Total distance: 1,171 kilometres
- Total driving time: 12 hours 20 minutes
If you’ve only got a few days to spare, this shorter route ensures you make it to all the best sights and iconic destinations while following the most direct driving distance. You may be short on time, but this is one road trip that is sure to deliver natural beauty, hidden gems, and memorable experiences in the capital city and beyond.
Day 1: Adelaide to Narrandera
- Distance: 832 kilometres
- Driving time: 8 hours 36 minutes
From Adelaide, drive through its scenic rolling hills as you make your way to Murray Bridge where you’ll discover its rich Aboriginal heritage. Located close to the Murray River, it’s the perfect place to stop, unwind, and refresh before a day of more driving, while adventurers can go swimming, canoeing, house boating, follow walking trails around the area, or enjoy some relaxed birdwatching. From there, continue on your drive to Hay, with its museums and cycleways. Frequent the quaint cottages and country pubs as you revel in the laid back charm of the area.
From Hay, continue driving east over the A20 highway as you come to Narrandera, situated on the Murrumbidgee River’s red gum corridor. With its old-world charm and greenery, you’ll feel excited at the prospect of exploring the Narrandera Wetlands, Lake Talbot, or simply relaxing by the Murrumbidgee River.
Day 2: Narrandera to Canberra
- Distance: 339 kilometres
- Driving time: 3 hours 44 minutes
As you make your journey into inland New South Wales, you’ll venture to Wagga Wagga or the “City of Good Sports”, a moniker referencing sporting heroes like Peter Stirling, Paul Kelly and Mark Taylor who all called Wagga Wagga home. With several museums and art galleries, we recommend spending some time here as you take in the rich culture of the town and its countless attractions, like the Regional Art Gallery.
From Wagga Wagga, take the Hume Highway as you make your way to Canberra, with its rich political significance and history. With plenty to explore, you’ll need time to take in all the sights. The National Gallery of Australia, Royal Australian Mint, Australian War Memorial, and Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) are just a few worth experiencing in person.
Route 2: Adelaide to Canberra in 5 days: The Great Ocean Road Route
- Total distance: 1,583 kilometres
- Total driving time: 17 hours 40 minutes
Make the most of your Adelaide to Canberra road trip with a detour to the iconic Great Ocean Road of Victoria, passing charming coastal towns and vibrant cities as you make your way through Melbourne and Kingston SE. With plenty of room to roam, you’ll be enchanted by breathtaking scenery, ocean views, and five days of adventure on this unforgettable road trip.
Day 1: Adelaide to Kingston SE
- Distance: 294 kilometres
- Driving time: 3 hours 13 minutes
From Adelaide, drive southeast to the incredible Coorong National Park, where nature lovers will have the option of hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in the outdoors. From there, continue to the laid back town of Kingston, where you won’t be able to pass up the opportunity to snap a photo of the iconic Big Lobster.
Day 2: Kingston SE to Mount Gambier
- Distance: 157 kilometres
- Driving time: 1 hour 47 minutes
From Kingston, journey past the stunning coastlines of Cape Jaffa, where lighthouses offer panoramic views of the region. You’ll then venture to Mount Gambier, with the stunning Blue Lake being a must-see attraction, and the water of the volcanic crater changing from December to March. You can also explore the Umpherston Sinkhole, which has been transformed into a beautiful garden complete with walking trails, Engelbrecht Cave, or Valley Lake Conservation Park with its walking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife reserve.
Day 3: Mount Gambier to Port Campbell
- Distance: 242 kilometres
- Driving time: 3 hours
From Mount Gambier, make a detour to Logan’s Beach in Warrnambool, where you can enjoy a dip in the ocean or go whale watching during breeding season. You’ll then join the iconic Great Ocean Road, one of Australia’s most iconic scenic drives.
Consider stopping off at Aireys Inlet, where you can hike coastal trails or visit Split Point Lighthouse and the towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay before arriving at Port Campbell. From there, you can visit the Port Campbell National Park and witness mesmerising limestone cliffs, crystal blue waters, and rock formations like the Twelve Apostles and London Arch.
Day 4: Port Campbell to Melbourne
- Distance: 229 kilometres
- Driving time: 2 hours 49 minutes
Along the way, drive through the Great Otway National Park, where you can take one of several hiking trails to view the stunning Triplet Falls. As you continue making your way along the coast, you’ll also come to the Point Addis Marine National Park, known for its abundance of marine life. Continue driving through scenic vistas where opportunities for detours include the plains of Werribee Open Range Zoo before coming to the vibrant city of Melbourne.
Have a bit of time to spare? Before you depart for Canberra, why not try one of the best road trips in Victoria first?
Day 5: Melbourne to Canberra
- Distance: 661 kilometres
- Driving time: 6 hours 50 minutes
For those who have time to spare, consider taking in the sights of Melbourne’s bustling city, which is known for its thriving art scene, museums, botanic gardens, and renowned restaurants that serve up delicious local and international flavours. On the drive, you’ll pass through the rural city of Wangaratta and take in scenic landscapes before arriving in Canberra, where countless sightseeing adventures await.
Tip from the author: Looking to extend your drive along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road? Consider this itinerary that ensures you see all the main attractions on one of Australia’s most iconic driving routes.
Route 3: Adelaide to Canberra in 7 days: The Alpine Route
- Total distance: 1,608 kilometres
- Total driving time: 17 hours 10 minutes
To fully appreciate the natural beauty of the Adelaide to Canberra drive, why not take a scenic route that takes you through Australia’s most revered landscapes? This road trip itinerary will take you along the Alpine route as you venture to Mount Kosciuszko in the heart of the New South Wales Snowy Mountains. As the highest peak on the continent, you’ll be treated to stunning hikes, pristine lakes, and rugged mountain scenery.
Day 1: Adelaide to Murray River
- Distance: 251 kilometres
- Driving time: 2 hours 42 minutes
From Adelaide, visit the Barossa Valley, globally known as the wine country of Australia. From there, continue to Murray River, where you’ll find pink lakes and sprawling landscapes at the Murray-Sunset National Park.
Day 2: Murray River to Swan Hill
- Distance: 375 kilometres
- Driving time: 3 hours 51 minutes
From Murray River, continue to Mildura, where you can explore the countless wineries and citrus orchards. You’ll drive south to Swan Hill where you can explore attractions like the Swan Hill Clock Tower, Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum with its aviation history, or simply enjoy a delicious meal at the river-side cafes and restaurants.
Day 3: Swan Hill to Albury
- Distance: 353 kilometres
- Driving time: 3 hours 51 minutes
From Swan Hill, you’ll venture to Echuca, where you can learn more about the region’s history. Drive southeast towards Bendigo or make a detour for Rosalind Park, where you can bask in nature. From there, you’ll drive to Albury, where you will be treated to stunning countryside and scenic beauty.
Day 4: Albury to Mount Kosciuszko
- Distance: 155 kilometres
- Driving time: 1 hour 56 minutes
Leaving Albury, you’ll make the drive to Mount Kosciuszko, passing through the varied landscapes of New South Wales. From regional towns boasting historic buildings and a friendly atmosphere to the alpine environments, as you edge closer to the Snowy Mountains, you’ll have opportunities to stop at Wagga Wagga and Jindabyne.
Day 5: Explore Mount Kosciuszko
As the highest peak in Australia, Mount Kosciuszko certainly deserves a day of exploration. As well as hiking to the summit for surrounding views of the Snowy Mountains, you can also visit Thredbo Village for skiing during the snow season, take a chairlift to Eagles Nest for views of the alpine landscape, or do a summit walk to Seamans Hut, a historic stone hut that provides a beautiful site to rest.
Tip from the author: For those wanting to camp overnight, there are several free options available along with the Kosciuszko National Park camping grounds. Pinch River Campground is located inside the National Park payable access area, but while the campsite is free, you need a Kosciuszko National Park Pass for your vehicle to enter.
Day 6: Mount Kosciuszko to Southern Highlands
- Distance: 298 kilometres
- Driving time: 2 hours 57 minutes
From Mount Kosciuszko, visit the Southern Highlands and take in the beautiful garden estates which are often open to the public. Home to historic buildings boasting incredible architecture as well as national parks, hikes, antique stalls, beautiful landscapes, and wineries, you’ll have plenty to keep you occupied with a day of exploring.
Day 7: Southern Highlands to Canberra
- Distance: 176 kilometres
- Driving time: 1 hour 53 minutes
It’s time to begin your final leg of the journey as you make your way to Canberra. From the Southern Highlands, drive past the charming town of Bowral where you can make a detour to take in the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame, or visit the local boutiques and cafes. You can also stop off at Goulburn before finally arriving in Canberra, where Mount Ainslie Lookout and the Australian National Botanic Gardens beckon.
Top food spots on the Adelaide to Canberra drive
If your idea of enjoying the holiday period or weekend getaway is to experience local produce, fresh flavours, and culinary delights, you’ll be spoiled for choice on this road trip. Whether you’re a chocolate lover with a sweet tooth or prefer savoury dishes, these food spots are a must-visit.
Melba’s Chocolates, South Australia
This Aussie chocolate and candy maker uses vintage equipment to create some of the best chocolates you’ll ever taste. The factory is incredible and makes for a great day tour.
Bird In Hand Winery, South Australia
It would be remiss not to visit the wineries South Australia is known for. From the Barossa Valley to Adelaide Hills, you’ll find plenty offering tastings and restaurants pairing wines with delicious meals. This winery offers incredible views of the rolling hills and specialises in farm-to-table dining.
Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory, New South Wales
Those with a sweet tooth will want to make the detour to Junee in New South Wales where you can take in the incredible chocolate factory and see how they make the delicious treats before tasting.
Akiba, Canberra
Serving up incredible pan-Asian flavours, don’t miss this restaurant in the heart of Canberra. With Japanese, Asian, and street food on offer, you’ll find every one of your senses heightened with this dining experience.
Monster Kitchen and Bar, Canberra
Situated within the Ovolo Nishi Hotel, this contemporary restaurant specialises in modern Australian plates and fresh produce. Plates are designed for sharing, and it boasts a vibrant, friendly atmosphere that makes it a go-to destination for locals and international travellers alike.
Frequently asked questions about the Adelaide to Canberra drive
Can I get from Adelaide to Canberra by bus?
You can get from Adelaide to Canberra by bus, with several companies operating services frequently between the two cities. The journey typically takes 12 to 15 hours, however this will vary depending on the bus provider and the specific route.
Popular services include Greyhound Australia, Murrays, and Firefly Express, all of which offer comfortable travel options that include amenities onboard. Though a bus will allow you to reach your destination, it doesn’t afford the same luxury as a hire car, where you can travel at your own pace and make detours along the route, depending on the interests and activities you wish to pursue.
Can I get a flight from Adelaide to Canberra?
Direct flights from Adelaide to Canberra run year-round and operate frequently throughout the day. For those wanting to make the journey from Adelaide to Canberra, the average time is 1 hour and 35 minutes of travel, making it one of the fastest ways to travel between the two cities. That said, you’ll miss out on an amazing road trip experience.
Are the roads from Adelaide to Canberra sealed?
Yes, you’ll find sealed roads from Adelaide to Canberra. The fastest route that connects the two cities is by way of the National Highway M31 (otherwise known as the Hume Highway), which is well-maintained. No matter the route, you can expect sealed roads throughout your road trip which makes for a comfortable driving experience and seamless travel.
What is the best time of year to travel from Adelaide to Canberra?
The best time to travel from Adelaide to Canberra is during the months of spring (September to November), particularly for those wanting to explore the outdoors and diverse landscapes in milder temperatures.
The second best time to travel is during the autumn months (March to May), popular for its colourful foliage and mild temperatures. However, summer can see you experience high temperatures and droves of tourists. Not surprisingly, it makes for a less enjoyable road trip and can also be more costly as prices for accommodation can soar.
Winter in Canberra can be particularly cold at night, however for those looking to experience snow sports, it might just be the best time to travel. Snowfall isn’t uncommon in certain parts of Canberra and the city itself, although don’t expect anything too heavy! If travelling at this time, be sure to check road conditions and pack essentials like snow chains to stay safe on icy roads.
Ultimately, the best time will depend on your own preferences and the activities you wish to do during your road trip.
Want to take on the Adelaide to Canberra drive in style? With Turo, you can find the perfect vehicle for your journey. If you’re starting your drive to Canberra from Adelaide (or vice versa), let Turo connect you with the perfect vehicle for your trip.
Keen to keep exploring the stunning landscapes of Australia and Canberra’s countless attractions? Keep the road trip going with this Canberra to Melbourne road trip guide, taking in the top attractions and food spots that will be sure to delight the senses.
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.
