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Darwin

Darwin travel guide

Capital city of Northern Territory, Australia

Things to do25 experiences
Best time to visitJune to August
Nearest airportDRW · 3 mi from centre
Time zoneUTC+9:30
Population139,902

About Darwin

Darwin is the capital and largest city of the Northern Territory, Australia. The city had a population of 139,902 at the 2021 census, which is nearly 63% of the territory's population. It is the smallest, wettest, and most northerly of the Australian capital cities and serves as the Top End's regional centre.

Things to do in Darwin by type

25 tours, tickets and experiences across 5 categories. Pick a type to see what is available for your dates.

How long
  • Over 6 hours 5
  • 3-6 hours 2
  • 1-3 hours 2
  • Flexible 1
  • Up to 1 hour 1
Ways to go
  • Small group 14
Browse all things to do in Darwin

Top experiences in Darwin

Tours, tickets and experiences you can book with Destina Holidays, from 25 available.

See all things to do in Darwin

Best time to visit Darwin

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Darwin is June to August, when average daytime highs are around 86–88°F and rain falls on about 1 days a month.

MonthTemperature (°F)Rain days
Jan 79° – 87° 29
Feb 79° – 87° 24
Mar 79° – 87° 26
Apr 78° – 89° 13
May 76° – 90° 3
Jun 71° – 87° 0
Jul 72° – 86° 2
Aug 73° – 88° 1
Sep 77° – 89° 9
Oct 80° – 91° 15
Nov 79° – 88° 22
Dec 79° – 89° 26

Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.

Know before you go

Currency
Australian dollar (AUD)1 US dollar ≈ $1.43
Language
English
Calling code
+61
Driving
On the left
Time zone
Australia/DarwinUTC+9:30
Capital
Canberra

Upcoming public holidays in Australia

  • Christmas Day
  • St. Stephen's DayBoxing Day
  • New Year's Day
  • Australia Day
  • Good Friday
  • Easter Monday

Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.

Getting to Darwin

These are the airports closest to central Darwin. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.

  • DRW Darwin International Airport3 mi (5 km) from the city centre
Search flights to Darwin

Getting around Darwin

Darwinbus operates services throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. Services are more frequent closer to the city where the routes overlap. You will need to plan according to the timetable to get anywhere else. There are limited services on Sundays. All services have been totally free since 2024.

By car

Driving is the best way to comprehensively see Darwin. Many of the sights are spread out, parking is easy and traffic is usually free flowing.

By foot

Walking can be very hard work for those not used to the climate in Darwin. Dress to stay cool, and carry water.

Darwin travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Darwin?

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Darwin is June to August, when average daytime highs are around 86–88°F and rain falls on about 1 days a month.

What is the weather like in Darwin?

October is usually the warmest month in Darwin, with average highs of 91°F (33°C). July is the coolest, with average lows of 72°F (22°C). The wettest month is typically January, with about 519 mm of rain.

Which airport is closest to Darwin?

Darwin International Airport (DRW) is the closest airport, about 3 miles (5 km) from the centre of Darwin.

What currency is used in Darwin?

Darwin uses the Australian dollar (AUD). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ $1.43.

What time zone is Darwin in?

Darwin uses the Australia/Darwin time zone (currently UTC+9:30). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.

How do I get around Darwin?

Darwinbus operates services throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. Services are more frequent closer to the city where the routes overlap. You will need to plan according to the timetable to get anywhere else. There are limited services on Sundays. All services have been totally free since 2024.

What are the top things to do in Darwin?

Popular experiences you can book in Darwin include Croc And History Explorer Package - Full-Day Tour, Explore Darwin City Sights - Half-DayTour and Darwin City Sights and Jumping Crocs - Full-Day Tour. Destina Holidays offers 25 tours and activities here.

What kinds of tours and activities can I book in Darwin?

The most popular types of experiences in Darwin are day trips & excursions (9), air, helicopter & balloon tours (9), outdoor activities & adventure (8) and zoo, aquarium & nature (5). Filter by type when you search to compare prices and availability for your dates.