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Guide to Darwin

Aboriginal name: Gulumerrdgen (pronounced Golom-merrd-gen)

Welcome
Aboriginal
Getting to Darwin
When to visit
Accessibility

With everything from Asian food markets and crocodile encounters to open-air movies and sunset cruises, Darwin is as easy going as it is exciting.

If balmy nights, colourful characters and outdoor adventures are on your bucket list, you'll want to visit Darwin, located in the Northern Territory. Along with its crocodiles and cruises, you'll find rich Aboriginal cultures here, evident through the vibrant Aboriginal art that fills the city's galleries, museums and streetscapes. The city's proximity to Asia means you'll also find strong Asian influences, especially in the energetic food scene and buzzing night markets.

The Larrakia people are the Traditional Custodians of Darwin/Gulumerrdgen. The Larrakia people observe seven seasons throughout the year, and each season brings changes in weather, plants and animals. You can connect with First Nations culture, art and food on a range of Aboriginal experiences in Darwin.

Traditional name: Gulumerrdgen (pronounced Golom-merrd-gen)
Indigenous Peoples: Larrakia people
Traditional languages: Larrakia language
How to say g’day in Larrakia: Darrandirra (Durran-dirra), Miledma (Mil-ed-ma) or Batji-way (Barchi-way)

Fly into Darwin International Airport on either an international flight, or from any Australian state or territory.

Darwin International Airport (DRW) is 7km (4.5mi) from the city and services international and domestic arrivals
Darwin is home to great road trips, but given its distance from other major cities, it may be best to hire a car after arriving on a flight
Hire cars, taxis, rideshares and shuttle services are available at Darwin Airport

Getting around Darwin is a breeze as it’s the smallest of Australia’s capital cities. With easy walking and cycling paths, many of Darwin’s attractions can be reached on foot. Darwin also has clean and reliable buses that stop at popular tourist spots.

There are two distinct seasons in Darwin. The dry season is the most popular time to visit, with many of the city’s events and festivals happening during this time. During the wet season, you will witness lush greenery and spectacular evening storms, and you’ll avoid the crowds at the city’s many attractions.

It's important to note that some tours do not operate during the wet season, so be sure to check in advance if you're planning to come at this time.

High season: Dry season (May to October)
Low season: Wet season (November to July)
Don’t miss: Mindil Beach Sunset Markets (April to October)

Darwin is home to a host of accessible experiences and accommodation options.

Arrival: Accessible assistance is available at Darwin Airport for those needing baggage or movement support throughout the airport.
Getting around: Public buses in Darwin have low floors and extendable ramps for passengers with limited mobility.
Accessible experience highlights: Darwin has a rich and diverse history, so be sure to visit the city’s accessible museums and galleries. If you’re looking for more of a thrill, try your hand at wheelchair-friendly barramundi fishing.
Helpful resources: Search for accommodation and explore itineraries on this guide to accessible travel in the Northern Territory.

Top things to do in Darwin

Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise near Darwin © Shaana McNaught

Go crazy for crocodiles

Get a closer look (safely) at a saltwater crocodile on a jumping croc cruise or get your heart racing on a diving encounter. Despite your safe distance, you’ll feel their power as they leap, snap and roll. Choose your own crocodile adventure.

Browing art at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory © Courtesy of MAGNT/Charlie Bliss

Explore the museums and galleries

From the legendary Sweetheart (a large crocodile specimen) to traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art, Darwin’s museums and galleries will impress. The city is also home to incredible street art. Discover the art, culture and history of Darwin.

Wave lagoon at Darwin Waterfront, Darwin, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Summersite

Spend a day at the waterfront

Darwin’s waterfront precinct is buzzing with restaurants, aquatic adventures and events. Catch a wave in a sparkling lagoon, conquer a floating obstacle course or simply stroll through sculptures and street art. Discover the best of the waterfront.

Street art in Darwin © Tourism NT/Darwin Street Art Festival/Jesse Bell and Andrew Bourke

Experience Aboriginal culture

The oldest living culture in the world is thriving in the city of Darwin. Enrich your visit with unforgettable outback adventures and cultural experiences when you immerse yourself in the Northern Territory’s vibrant Aboriginal culture.

Darwin, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Plan for family fun

Family fun isn’t hard to find in Darwin. You’ll find kid-friendly experiences for every age, from getting splashed by a jumping crocodile to movie nights under the stars. They’ll love the endless adventures, and you’ll savour their smiling faces.

Aerial view of Jim Jim Falls in Kakadu National Park © Jarrad Seng

Explore the national parks

Surrounded by an abundance of natural wonders, this tropical city is perfectly located for day trips and adventures. From World Heritage-listed national parks, to islands, wetlands and waterfalls, set out and explore beyond the city.

Sunset on a Darwin Harbour Cruise © Tourism NT/Taylah Nilsson 2017

Sail on a sunset harbour cruise

One of the best ways to experience this harbour city is on the harbour itself. Bask in the glow of golden hour on a sunset cruise or prolong the experience with a dinner. Discover all the ways you can set sail in style.

Woman in a helicopter on Matt Wright’s Outback Safari © Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo

Take a Top End Safari

Get a taste of the Top End from helicopter, airboat and cruise boat when you head out on Matt Wright's Top End Safari Camp day tour from Darwin. Discover exclusive vantage points for spotting the incredible wildlife of the Litchfield region.

Night-time movie at Deckchair Cinema in Darwin © 2016 Sarah Mackie

Catch a movie under the stars

Running from April to November, Deckchair Cinema is a unique outdoor cinema experience on the edge of the harbour. Take in the sunset from the tropical garden before settling in for the film with a night full of stars as your backdrop.

Couple at the Mindil Beach Sunset Market in Darwin © Tourism NT/Helen Orr

Get a taste of Darwin

Between May and October listen to live music, grab some souvenirs and visit the food stalls to taste local delicacies like barramundi, kangaroo and crocodile. Spend an evening at the Mindil Beach Sunset Market.

Swimming in Florence Falls in Litchfield National Park © Tourism NT/Dan Moore

Beat the heat at a waterhole

With family-friendly waterparks and lagoons in the city and natural waterholes and waterfalls nearby, there’s no shortage of places for a refreshing dip in Darwin’s balmy climate. Discover the best spots to cool off around Darwin.

Nitmiluk National Park, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught

Enjoy a Top End summer

Darwin’s wet season is characterised by epic thunderstorms and pounding waterfalls. Visit the Top End during summer and you’ll be witness to some of nature’s most dramatic displays. Discover the best summer experiences and start planning your trip.

Woman holding a barramundi with Barramundi Adventures Darwin © Barramundi Adventures Darwin

Catch a prized Barramundi

Barramundi Adventures Darwin is a land-based recreational fishing farm where you can drop a line and enjoy the thrill of catching the iconic Top End barramundi, perfect for everyone from beginners to die-hard anglers. Cast a line in Darwin.