Should You Visit Darwin?

Is Darwin worth visiting?

Darwin is worth visiting for two to three days so that you can explore everything that the town has to offer. Many people use Darwin as a gateway to Kakadu National Park. It's often just a stop off enroute, but if you spend some time in town you can visit the waterfront area and explore the nice green spaces. There are also some interesting museums in town.

The Ghan, near Darwin (Great Southern Rail)

Reasons to Visit Darwin

Hiking
In addition to city walks, there are many national parks that make great day trips from town. Litchfield National Park has many hikes as does Mary River National Park. The town is also known as the gateway to Kakadu National Park.

Museums
You can check out the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, explore the city's Waterfront Precinct, and spend some time at the Darwin Military Museum.

Food
There are plenty of local restaurants that serve seafood or local twists on international flavors. Many restaurants offer Barramundi that is prepared in unique ways. You can try the Barramundi Bibimbap or the Crispy Baby Barramundi.

Nightlife
You'll find the most bars along Mitchell Street or in the Waterfront Precinct area. There are also some popular nightclubs and music venues in town.

Beaches
Most people don't swim at the beaches because of the saltwater crocodiles and jellyfish. You can hang out in the sand though and Mindil Beach is a favorite spot for locals.

Shopping
There are shopping malls, art galleries, and trendy boutiques around town.

Authenticity
Darwin has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Darwin worth visiting in the Summer?

The weather in Darwin is fairly warm during summer, and stays around 29°C (83°F). But it can get as warm as 32°C (90°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.

The peak season for travel is summer in Darwin, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat popular with travelers, and in the high season it's busier than usual.

The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. This is a great time of year to relax at the beach, go hiking, and wander through the museums. Also, you can dance the night away.

Is Darwin worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Darwin. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

The warm weather in autumn is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 29°C (84°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 33°C (92°F).

You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to browse through museums and discover the nearby hiking trails.

Is Darwin worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Darwin. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

The warm weather in winter is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 25°C (77°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 31°C (87°F).

During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the cuisine, and the nightlife scene.

Is Darwin worth visiting in the Spring?

The warm weather in spring is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 29°C (85°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 34°C (92°F).

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Darwin, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

This is a great time of year to browse the shops, browse the museums, and enjoy an evening out.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Darwin

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Darwin might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Darwin here or see if Darwin is expensive here.

Related

What is Darwin most famous for?

Darwin is most famous for its outdoor markets and tropical weather. The town is very popular for its hiking. It's also known for museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping. It is often described as tropical, multicultural, authentic, and local.

What is the most famous sight in Darwin?

The most popular sight in Darwin is Mindil Beach. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Darwin on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Mindil Beach and other attractions here.

How touristy is Darwin? Is it a popular town to visit?

Darwin is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• 1 Hour Pathfinder Jumping Crocodile Cruise: $43
• Darwin City & Mindil Beach Sunset Market experience: $88
• ETHICAL ADVENTURES - 1 Day premium Litchfield tour, Max 10 guests: $186
• Corroboree Billabong 2.5 hour Lunch Cruise: $72
• The Croc Bus to the Famous Jumping Crocodile Cruise: $85
• Evening tour to Fogg Dam Wetlands and Humpty Doo Hotel: $91
• 1 Day Corroboree Billabong Wetland Experience including 2.5 hour cruise + lunch: $137
• Bombing of Darwin WWII Heritage Tours: $88

How long should I spend in Darwin?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Darwin is two to three days. Since Darwin has activities such as hiking, many visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Darwin? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Darwin?.