Feed crocodiles, take a cruise on the harbor at sunset, learn about Aboriginal culture, or enjoy a night out in the tropics in Darwin, the Northern Territory’s capital city.Darwin was founded in 1869. It was named after the English naturalist Charles Darwin by his fellow explorers, who navigated the Timor Sea aboard The Beagle. The city’s recent past has been tumultuous. Darwin was bombed during World War II, and in 1974 a cyclone destroyed it all over again. About 150,000 people call modern-day Darwin home, including some of the territory’s traditional owners, the Larrakia people.It’s best to visit Darwin from May to September, when it’s not too hot or too wet for outdoor activities. On a Thursday or a Sunday, visit the Sunset Markets on Mindil Beach. On any day, enjoy a harbor cruise from Stokes Hill Wharf, or a movie under the stars at the Deckchair Cinema.Although the beaches look tempting, don’t jump in anywhere to cool off: crocodiles are abundant in the area. If you’d like to meet a few, visit Crocosaurus Cove and Crocodylus Park. For a safe swim, head to the huge Darwin Wave Lagoon.Book a tour or rent a four-wheel-drive car and explore the iconic Australian outback in Kakadu, the country’s largest national park. Be sure to bring your binoculars to spot wallabies, swamp birds, reptiles and dingoes. Hike around and find waterfalls to swim under or ancient Aboriginal rock art depicting Dreamtime stories.Darwin’s turbulent history and dynamic art scene provide plenty to do during the wet season. Get insight into Aboriginal culture at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. To learn about the 1942 bombings, immerse yourself in the Defence of Darwin Experience or see an American B-52 bomber at the Australian Aviation Heritage Centre.This tropical city is unlike any other city in the world. Come to Darwin to experience the true Australian wilderness and the long, developing story of humankind’s relationship with the Territory’s unique natural environment.
Darwin
Darwin Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Darwin
Darwin City Centre
Darwin City Centre is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Smith Street Mall and The Esplanade while you're in town.
Palmerston
Noted for its restaurants and shopping, you might consider exploring all Palmerston has to offer. You won't have to venture far to check out nearby attractions like Howard Springs Nature Park.
Nightcliff
Nightcliff might not have many top sights, but Casuarina Coastal Reserve and Casuarina Beach are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Parap
Parap is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Parap Village Markets and 24HR Art.
Cullen Bay
While visiting Cullen Bay, you might make a stop by sights like Cullen Bay Marina and Mindil Beach.
Larrakeyah
Beaches, restaurants, and shopping are just a few things travelers enjoy about Larrakeyah. Check out Cullen Bay Marina or Mindil Beach while you're exploring the area.
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Getting around Darwin
Most locals get around Darwin by car, and renting one is the most convenient way to explore the city and its surroundings. A network of bus routes spans the city and is another way of getting around, while you may also wish to rent a bike; Darwin’s flat landscapes, manageable size and abundance of cycle paths make it a cyclist-friendly city. It’s easy to rent bikes, with lots of stores in town. Visit the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics website.Browse Darwin rental cars.
Best time to visit
The best times to visit Darwin are dictated by the city’s wet and dry seasons, which run from October to April and May to September, respectively. Visit during the winter, from June to August, and you’ll find the weather to be warm and dry, making this the best time of year to visit. Temperatures stay pretty consistent throughout the year in Darwin, with average highs in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
Popular places to visit
Darwin Waterfront
Explore Darwin’s scenic waterfront, where you can swim in the wave pool, see turtles up close and dine in restaurants overlooking the sea.
Mindil Beach
Explore one of Australia’s best beaches by day or visit by evening to enjoy Asian food, a massage, live music and indigenous crafts at Darwin’s sunset markets.
The Esplanade
Just a couple blocks from Darwin City Centre, this long street and bordering park offer great opportunities to appreciate nature, recreation and history.
Cullen Bay Marina
From early morning fishing excursions to evening sunset viewing, this waterfront spot north of downtown Darwin is filled with activity.
Mindil Beach Sunset Market
You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Mindil Beach Sunset Market during your visit to Darwin. Wander the waterfront and picturesque gardens in the area.
Crocosaurus Cove
This wildlife park offers the chance to admire a number of local species, as well as the safest encounter you can have with a saltwater crocodile.
Things to do
Darwin City Explorer Tour
Sunset 3-Hour Cruise from Darwin with Dinner and Sparkling Wine
Kakadu National Park, 4WD, 4-6 guests only, Day Trip w/lunch
3-Day Kakadu & Litchfield 4WD Camping Adventure from Darwin
Katherine Gorge & Edith Falls, 4WD, 4-6 Guests from Darwin
Half-Day Crocodile & Nature Explorer Tour
Other places like Darwin
- Darwin Waterfront
- Mindil Beach
- The Esplanade
- Cullen Bay Marina
- Darwin Convention Centre
- Mindil Beach Sunset Market
- Smith Street Mall
- Casuarina Beach
- SKYCITY Casino
- Fort Hill Wharf
- Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
- Marrara Sports Complex
- Stokes Hill Wharf
- George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
- Bicentennial Park
- TIO Stadium
- Parap Village Markets
- Casuarina Coastal Reserve
- Casuarina Square
- Darwin Aviation Museum
- Darwin Deckchair Cinema
- St Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Cathedral
- Parliament House
- Lyons Cottage
- Lake Alexander