Rating: 👍 Worth a Visit

Been to Darwin twice and both had a great time! Super laid back, the town is very small. You pretty much have one street and the wharf! It is very different to any other city in Australia. Lots of great activities in and around Darwin!

Top Things to Do

• Mindil Beach Sunset Market - Iconic beach sunsets, global street food, and handmade crafts (Thu & Sun dry season).

• Crocodile Cage of Death (Crocosaurus Cove) – Go face to face with massive saltwater crocs in a glass tank.

• Darwin Waterfront & Lagoon – Safe swimming, dining, and chill beach vibes right in the city.

• Litchfield National Park – Day trip for waterfalls, swimming holes, and magnetic termite mounds.

• Stokes Hill Wharf – Dinner with a view and easy access to harbour cruises.
  

How Many Days to Spend in Darwin

• Minimum: 2–3 full days – Explore Mindil Beach Sunset Market, Darwin Waterfront, Crocosaurus Cove, and Litchfield National Park.

• Ideal: 4–5 days – Add in the Jumping Crocodiles, Kakadu, and sunset sailing on Darwin Harbour.

• More time? Use Darwin as a gateway to the Top End – explore Kakadu and Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) on an epic Northern Territory road trip.

Best Time to Visit

Darwin has two seasons:

• Dry Season (May–October) – Sunny, cooler, perfect for exploring (peak tourist season).

• Wet Season (November–April) – Hot, humid, tropical storms, but lush landscapes and fewer crowds.

Most festivals, markets, and tours run in the dry season, so that’s the best time to visit.

Where to Stay

• Darwin CBD – Close to everything, walkable, good base for day trips.

• Waterfront Precinct – More modern, resort-style stays, beachy vibe.

• Mindil / Cullen Bay – Quieter, coastal, near the markets and beach.
  

Where to Eat & Drink

• Mindil Markets – Laksa, satay, mango smoothies under the sunset.

• Stokes Hill Wharf – Casual eats with water views.

• Darwin Sailing Club – Sundowners and seafood by the sea.
  

Travel Tips

• Stay hydrated – It’s hot and humid, especially in the wet.

• Pack light, breathable clothes – It’s tropical year round.

• Croc safety – Always swim where signs say it’s safe; avoid remote rivers or creeks.

• Rent a car if you want to explore Litchfield or Kakadu easily.
  

Budget Breakdown (per day)

• Accommodation: $90–$250 AUD

• Food: $20–$50 AUD

• Transport: $10–$30 AUD (add car hire for day trips)

• Tours/Parks: Some parks are free; guided tours or cruises can be ~$100+
  Tip: Most natural attractions like Litchfield are free—you just need to get there!

How to Get There

• Fly into Darwin International Airport (DRW) – 15 mins from CBD

• Airport Shuttle or Rideshare to city

• Self-drive: Ideal for exploring NT beyond Darwin (Litchfield, Kakadu, Katherine)