Darwin Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in Darwin

Darwin is more than Australia's northernmost capital city — it’s the gateway to exploring the vast natural and cultural wonders of the Top End including Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park, and the Tiwi Islands.

Within Darwin itself, you’ll find a mix of outdoor activities, Indigenous art, and popular markets.

In this guide to Darwin, you'll find the best places to swim, family-friendly activities, places to dine, and where to stay.

Darwin has plenty of outdoor activities to explore. Just two kilometres north of the city are the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. This must-visit site is one of the top free things to do in Darwin and it's known for its vast collection of tropical plants native to northern Australia. The gardens, close to Mindil Beach, provide a quieter and more peaceful alternative to the bustling seafront, making it a great spot to rest and relax.

Start your visit at the air-conditioned Visitor and Event Centre near the Gardens Road car park. The centre features gift shops, exhibitions about the gardens' history, and amphitheatres for live shows and presentations. You’ll also find electric BBQ stations, picnic facilities, toilets, and free drinking water nearby.

The George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens are open from 7am until 7pm daily, with the Visitor and Event Centre open from 9 am until 5 pm. You can download a map from the official website to explore the various routes, trails, and car parks. 

Located just over an hour from Darwin, Litchfield National Park offers a great escape for nature lovers. With its numerous waterfalls, four-wheel-drive tracks, and scenic walks covering over 1,500 square kilometres, it's a top day trip destination.

Start at Buley Rockhole, a series of rapid-flowing streams with plunge pools perfect for a swim. Nearby, Florence Falls provides another popular swimming spot, with campsites available for a more immersive experience. Don’t miss the famous Wangi Falls, which offers grassy picnic areas and is just a short walk from the car park.

As you explore, you’ll also spot the unique magnetic termite mounds — towering structures aligned with the Earth’s magnetic field.

For a safe and relaxing swim, head to The Beach at Darwin Waterfront. This man-made beach features saltwater swimming and a seawall separating it from the harbour, ensuring it’s crocodile-safe. With sun loungers, volleyball courts, and ticketed paddleboarding, it’s a perfect spot for visitors. Pets are allowed, and accessibility options are available for those with mobility needs.

Wave Lagoon offers more than 4,000 square metres of stinger and croc-free swimming space. This unique facility generates up to ten wave patterns, with some reaching 1.2 metres high, making it ideal for boarders. With shaded areas and sun loungers available, Wave Lagoon is a great spot for both families and relaxation.

Families flock to Crocosaurus Cove for the chance to get up close to Australia’s largest saltwater crocodiles. The aquarium offers unique experiences, including the famous Cage of Death croc dive – Australia's only crocodile dive experience! Younger visitors will love the Turtle Billabong, home to species like Red Face and Pig-Nosed turtles.

For more family fun, head to the Aqua Park at Darwin Waterfront, offering floating inflatables, climbing challenges, and paddleboard hire. Children aged six and up can enjoy the inflatable obstacle courses during 50-minute sessions.

For a dose of culture, visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. With its Indigenous art collections, historical exhibits, and the famous Cyclone Tracy exhibition, it’s a must-see for anyone interested in the Northern Territory's cultural heritage.

For a day tour, headacross the Timor Sea to the Tiwi Islands, where you’ll find Aboriginal art, stunning coastal landscapes, and opportunities to learn about the local culture. Explore the islands’ art workshops and enjoy wildlife tours, making it a unique cultural escape from the city.

No trip to Darwin is complete without a visit to the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the market offers live music, over 200 food stalls, and stunning views of the sunset over the ocean.

Whether you're looking to try new flavours, discover unique souvenirs, or enjoy live entertainment, the market has something for everyone. You can even bring your own drinks or relax in the licensed Sunset Lounge. Darwin’s market scene is full of local culture, and for more information on the best markets to visit, including Parap Village Markets, check out this guide to Darwin’s markets.

The Darwin Waterfront Precinct offers over 20 dining options, perfect for soaking up the tropical atmosphere. Whether you’re after casual eats or waterfront fine dining, this area has something for everyone.

Darwin’s accommodation options cater to all types of travellers, with hotels ranging from stylish apartment stays to centrally located hotels, all within easy reach of the city’s top attractions.

Whether you’re enjoying the lively waterfront precinct, exploring Mindil Beach and Crocosaurus Cove, or venturing further afield to Litchfield National Park, Darwin’s hotels offer convenient and comfortable bases to unwind after a day of exploration. 

Those wanting apartment-style accommodation should check in to Mantra on the Esplanade. This hotel offers convenient facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, car park, WiFi , and air conditioning. You'll enjoy comfort and convenience in the city centre with a prime location on the Esplanade overlooking the waterfront.

Accommodation options include one, two, and three bedroom apartments, penthouse suites, and standard hotel rooms with easy access to Mitchell Street and Darwin’s restaurant scene. Nearby transit links include Darwin Bus Interchange and Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal for travel to more distant parts of the city and other destinations including islands and national parks. 

Novotel Darwin CBD is another hotel for those looking for a central location. Close to public transport, it has modern rooms within easy walking distance of the city’s attractions, dining, and shops.

When you stay a Novotel Darwin CBD, you'll enjoy the lobby bar, an award-winning onsite restaurant, and a swimming pool. There’s also free WiFi access, air conditioning in every room, and room service running throughout the day. Novotel Darwin CBD prides itself as a base for exploring Darwin. It is close to the Aviation Heritage Centre, Mindil Markets, and Crocosaurus Cove, making it ideal for families and individual travellers wanting to be close to the action.