A night Image of the river Torrens in Adelaide.

Car Hire Adelaide Airport

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Unlock Adventures with Car Hire from Adelaide Airport

Wedged between two wind-swept peninsulas, South Australia’s cosmopolitan capital blends big-city energy and proximity to nature.

Picturesque surf beaches and imposing colonial-era buildings pepper the city. An easy drive away, dramatic coastlines, verdant leafy hills, and wildlife-rich islands beckon exploration. The most convenient and cost-effective way to bounce around the region is with car rental from Adelaide Airport 

Don’t let public transport or pricey taxis dampen your vacation vibe – grab a hire car at Adelaide Airport and hit the road on your terms.

What cars can I rent from Adelaide Airport? 

Our well-stocked Adelaide hire car depot has an expansive selection of vehicles. At Bargain Car Rentals, our famously low rates blow the competition away:

Vehicle Type Description Perfect For 
Compact cars Fuel-efficient and easy to park—great for city driving and short trips.Navigating the Adelaide CBD, Glenelg Beach day trips or running errands in North Adelaide.
Mid-size sedans More cabin and boot space—comfortable for longer drives without the bulk.Weekend escapes to the Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, or day trips to Hahndorf.
SUVs Spacious, safe and ideal for mixed terrain and family travel.Exploring Adelaide Hills, road trips to Kangaroo Island or coastal drives to Victor Harbor.
Luxury VehiclesPremium European sedans and SUVs offering a smooth, stylish ride.Impressing clients in the CBD, winery tours in McLaren Vale or attending events. 
People Movers & Vans 7–12 seaters with ample space for luggage, kids or colleagues.Transporting groups on a winery tour or ferrying the family. 
Utes/ Commercial Tray-back and enclosed vans perfect for hauling tools, equipment, or cargo.Tradespeople working in Port Adelaide, Mount Barker or supporting local festivals and events.

Looking for commercial car hire in Adelaide?

Got a job coming up in South Australia? Ask about our Adelaide Airport commercial vehicle hire. We stock a range of robust work vehicles, from 8- or 12-seater people movers to one-tonne vans. Whether you’re managing a conference or construction project, our fit-for-purpose workhorses will get the job done. And with our famously low rental rates, you’ll come in well under budget, too.

How do I pick up my rental car from Adelaide Airport?

We operate a shuttle service to and from the depot, available within business hours and up to 20 minutes prior to closing.

After collecting your luggage, please call +61 3 6165 0838 and press option 1 to request the shuttle bus service to our near-airport location during the location’s operating hours.

  • From the Domestic Terminal: Proceed to Baggage Collection, then turn right at Baggage Claim #3 and exit the terminal building following signs to the Buses & Taxis Pickup Areas. As you step onto the forecourt, to your left will be a curved path under a covered walkway. Follow this walkway and continue around to the left – please wait for our Shuttle next to the Taxi pick-up area. 
  • From the International Terminal: On exiting International Arrivals, turn 180º making your way to the Domestic Baggage Claim area, then follow the directions as above for Domestic Arrivals.

How do I drop off my rental car from Adelaide Airport?

Please return the vehicle to our off-site depot located at 59 Galway Avenue, Marleston, and we will shuttle you back to the airport terminal, this service does not need to be booked but is only available within business hours and 20 minutes before closing.

Please allow enough time to wait for the shuttle to arrive (approximately 20 min).

Hit the Road with Bargain Car Rentals for Adelaide Airport Car Hire

Some travellers disregard Adelaide in favour of more famous cities like Sydney or Melbourne. But South Australia’s thriving little capital has plenty to offer, from lush inner-city parklands to world-class museums and insightful historic sites.

Party animals will thrive in the lively after-dark action on Hindley or Rundle Street. Foodies will find ample fabulous eateries on O’Connell and Melbourne Street, plus the iconic Adelaide Central Market. More of a beach bum? Glenelg’s tree-lined strip is about as pretty as they come. There’s something here for everyone, and we’ve curated a little inspiration to get you started! 

The open road is calling! Book online now to save with cheap car hire from Adelaide Airport.

Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Visit our FAQs.

Adelaide International Airport (ADL) lies 6km from the city’s bustling CBD. Upon picking up your car rental at Adelaide Airport, a straight-shot cruise down Sir Donald Bradman Drive will get you to the western edge of the CBD in 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Adelaide Airport

59 Galway Avenue, Marleston, SA 5033

Hours:
Mon – Sun 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
(Normal trading hours for Easter, Christmas & New Year holidays)

Hours:
Mon – Fri 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sat & Sun 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
(Normal trading hours for Easter, Christmas & New Year holidays)

Shuttle Bus is available within business hours and up to 20 minutes prior to closing.

Contact Number: +61 8 7184 4205

Make a Booking

Can we take a hired car from Adelaide Airport on the ferry to Kangaroo Island?

Of course! However, we don’t offer any hire cars for off-road use, such as driving on beaches or unsealed roads. Please stick to sealed roads during your journey to ensure your safety and comply with rental policies.

How much does it cost to rent a car from Adelaide Airport?

Bargain Car Rentals offers the cheapest rates for hire cars at Adelaide Airport. Although costs depend on seasons, car types, and availability, expect to pay $25 to $95 per day.

What cars can I rent from Adelaide Airport?

Bargain Car Rentals offers a wide range of hire cars at Adelaide Airport, from tiny hatchbacks to huge SUVs and everything in between. See our full range of Adelaide Airport hire cars.

How do I pick up a car from Adelaide CBD?

Please note that Bargain Car Rentals is not located in Adelaide’s CBD. You’ll find our depot conveniently positioned at 59 Galway Avenue, Marleston – just a short drive from Adelaide Airport, approximately 6km from the city centre.

Upon picking up your car rental at Adelaide Airport, a straight-shot cruise down Sir Donald Bradman Drive will get you to the western edge of the CBD in 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Can I rent a car for a long-term stay in Adelaide?

Absolutely. Long-term car hire is available and can often be more affordable per day. It’s a great option for business trips, temporary relocation or extended holidays.

What should I know about driving in South Australia?

Keep an eye out for kangaroos or wildlife, especially when driving at dawn or dusk in regional areas. Speed limits are strictly enforced, and driving with headlights on in rural areas is recommended.

Is parking easy in Adelaide?

Compared to larger cities, Adelaide offers plenty of parking. Street parking in the CBD can be limited during peak hours, but there are many council car parks, free parking zones in suburbs and discounted weekend options.

EXPLORING ADELAIDE WITH A CAR HIRE

While public transport is an option, nothing compares to the freedom of setting your own pace. With a car, South Australia’s most iconic destinations – from coastal wonders to world-class wine regions – are yours to explore.

Looking for the best things to see and do in Adelaide? Here’s a list of the city’s top sites.

1.      Adelaide CBD

Adelaide’s compact, skyscraper-strewn CBD sits wedged between vast leafy parklands. In the dead centre lies Victoria Square, a verdant, wide-open space hosting regular events. Stroll through Chinatown for bubble tea and dumplings, or shuffle around Rundle Mall for world-class shopping.

2.      Adelaide Central Market

No trip to the CBD would be complete without a visit to Adelaide Central Market. Trading since 1869, this historic gourmet hangout hosts over 80 vendors. While most stalls contain farm-fresh produce and top-quality foodstuffs, you’ll also find several stalls whipping up tasty cooked-to-order fare.

3.      Adelaide Botanic Garden

On the northeast corner of the CBD, this sprawling 125-acre garden hosts a myriad of rare species, including the critically endangered Wollemi Pine. Wander its lushly forested walking trails, stopping off at greenhouses and cafes. Don’t miss the sail-shaped Bicentennial Conservatory.

4.      Adelaide Oval

You don’t have to be a sports fanatic to appreciate Adelaide Oval, one of Australia’s most iconic stadiums. If you can’t catch a match, tour the 53,000-seat facility or brave the vertigo-inducing RoofClimb.

5.      Port Adelaide

Northwest of the CBD, this rejuvenated port district hosts intriguing historic sites and museums. Transport enthusiasts will love the Maritime, Aviation and Railway museums. Pop-up markets, heritage-listed pubs, and eclectic galleries complete this charming 1800s-era district.

6.      South Australian Museum

Over five action-packed storeys, South Australia’s flagship museum spans aboriginal culture to European and natural history. Many visitors feel the highlight is a life-like 11-metre model of a real-life giant squid. Entry is free.

7.      Art Gallery of South Australia

Next to the museum, the (also free) Art Gallery of South Australia houses the state’s finest contemporary art collection. This world-class exhibition spans some 47,000 works, from paintings to photographs and clothing to ceramics.

8.      Glenelg Beach

South Australia’s most iconic beach is Glenelg, a pine-fringed stunner southwest of the CBD. Laidback pubs and healthy-eating cafes line the waterfront, as well as amusement arcades and a big, lofty Ferris wheel. Swing into the Bay Discovery Centre to learn more about this seaside district. Don’t fancy driving? Take the historic Glenelg-CBD tram.

9.      Adelaide Gaol

One of Australia’s longest continually-running prisons (1841-1988), the Adelaide Gaol provides a sombre insight into the state’s grisly history. At least 66 inmates hung here—join an after-dark ghost tour if you dare.

10.  National Wine Centre of Australia

South Australia’s famous vineyards pump out the most sublime wine in the country. But you don’t have to hit a winery to learn about the state’s burgeoning industry. This modern, well-presented space hosts educational exhibits and a classy tasting room.

EXPLORING OUTSIDE ADELAIDE WITH A RENTAL CAR

While there’s plenty to keep you busy inside the city, some of South Australia’s best natural attractions lie outside town. And the best way to reach them is with a slick Bargain Car Rentals ride.

1.      Adelaide Hills

Thirty minutes from the city centre, this leafy undulating region is a classic weekend escape (great to visit at any time). Scenic sites like Cleland Conservation Park, Mount Lofty, and Belair National Park lure hikers and bikers in droves. Foodies will prefer regional wineries and charming gourmand hamlets like Hahndorf.

2.      Southern Beaches

While Glenelg is Adelaide’s most iconic beach, it’s not the only spot to pull up a towel. Stunning yet uncrowded stretches line Adelaide’s southern coastline. Favourites include Hallett Cove, as well as Christies, Maslin, and Port Willunga Beach.

3.      McLaren Vale

South Australia’s world-class wine industry is the state’s biggest tourism drawcard. Located 40 minutes south of the city, this sensational wine-growing region is among the most accessible of them all. Don’t miss the avant-garde d’Arenberg vineyard.

4.      Barossa Valley

A leisurely hour-long drive out of town gets you to the Barossa Valley, one of Australia’s most celebrated wine-growing regions. Swing by the Barossa Farmers Market for top-shelf foodstuffs to line the stomach before sipping some world-famous Barossa Shiraz.

5.      Clare Valley

White wine lovers should drive further north towards Clare Valley, a crisp, cool-climate region producing the state’s best translucent drops. Cycle the 35-kilometre Riesling Trail (or some of it), stopping off to guzzle the good stuff at numerous wineries enroute.

6.      Yorke Peninsula

On the other side of St Vincent’s Gulf, this remote peninsula hosts striking rural scenery and atmospheric seaside towns. Don’t miss Edithburgh and Marion Bay. The dreamy Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park sits at the tip.

7.      Fleurieu Peninsula

Heading south from the city leads you to the Fleurieu Peninsula, a lush agricultural land home to rows of pristine beaches. Summer holiday hotspots like Victor Harbor and Port Elliot never fail to impress.

8.      Kangaroo Island

A quick SeaLink car ferry from Cape Jervis whisks you to Kangaroo Island, a classic South Australian destination. From historic settlements to wildlife-rich parks and coastlines, this remote island has it all.

9.      Limestone Coast

Heading southwest towards Victoria takes you past the Limestone Coast, a windy stretch home to rugged seaside towns like Beachport, Kingston SE, and Robe. Wine lovers should detour inland towards Coonawarra.

10.  Eyre Peninsula

This vast, arid peninsula is worth the detour for its glistening aquamarine beaches. Don’t miss Coffin Bay and Port Lincoln national parks.

11.  The Flinders Ranges

If time permits, the spell-binding Flinders Ranges National Park is worth the 5-hour (one-way) drive. More outback adventures await further afield.

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ADELAIDE

The best time to visit Adelaide is during March-May (autumn) and September-November (spring). Expect temperate weather, lower prices, and thinner crowds during these pleasant shoulder seasons.

Summer is the peak travel season, especially during the lengthy Christmas and New Year’s break. Aside from the high prices and maddening crowds, South Australia can get scorching hot in summer. Thankfully, all Bargain Car Rentals vehicles have excellent A/C.

What’s the cheapest season to visit Adelaide?

The most affordable time to hire a car in Adelaide is during winter due to lower demand. Expect average temperatures between 8-16°C and frosty mornings in highland zones.

 

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Adelaide Airport

59 Galway Avenue, Marleston, SA 5033

Hours:
Mon – Sun 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
(Normal trading hours for Easter, Christmas & New Year holidays)

Hours:
Mon – Fri 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sat & Sun 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
(Normal trading hours for Easter, Christmas & New Year holidays)

Shuttle Bus is available within business hours and up to 20 minutes prior to closing.

Contact Number: +61 8 7184 4205

Make a Booking
No Airport Fees
No Booking Fees
No Vehicle Registration Fees
No Premium Location Surcharge
No Extra Driver Fees
No Under 25yr Driver Surcharges