Whether you’re based on the waterfront or in the city, Darwin is full of surprises including incredible art, culture, food and of course Darwin’s iconic colourful sunsets. To make the most of your extended weekend or quick getaway in Darwin follow our 72 hour suggested itinerary below.
Day One:
One of the best ways to get your bearings in a new destination is to explore on foot. After breakfast, which is included in our Darwin Short Stay package, walk along Smith Street and Knuckey Street in the city where you’ll find local shops, popular cafes and eating spots. Next, enjoy a further orientation of Darwin with the Hop-on Hop-off Bus as you travel at your pace to explore the main places of interest, landmarks and attractions. You can even encounter the iconic Territory wildlife right in the heart of the CBD at Crocosaurus Cove, and for the adventurous, even experience the thrilling Cage of Death here!
Continue to Stokes Hill Wharf where you can enjoy a delicious lunch stop at one of the waterfront restaurants. Take in the picturesque ocean views while enjoying fresh seafood plus a great selection of other meals to suit all tastes. From here you can walk to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Darwin Tourist Facility and learn about the history and continuing activity of this integral service. For an immersive experience, step into the virtual reality of Darwin’s resilient wartime era, with decades of heroic stories. Both of which are included in the Darwin Short Stay package.
After lunch, head back to city streets and take in the vibrant Darwin Street Art, that adorns the building walls and more throughout the city. Download the interactive app for this free public art gallery to guide you through the art trail consisting of 11 public artworks and spaces, including murals, mosaics, sculpture, and glass work.
To end your first day in Darwin, it’s time to take in a famous Top End sunset. If you are in Darwin between May and October, the Mindil Beach Sunset Market is a must do, held every Thursday and Sunday evening. Experience the buzzing atmosphere, great mix of food cuisines, unique local trade stalls and local entertainment. Then, as the sun sets, follow the crowd to find a good spot on the beach and take in an unforgettable Mindil Beach Sunset. Otherwise, the ocean front Darwin Trailer Boat Club or Sailing Club are both great spots year round for a relaxed drink or meal as you catch the mesmerising sky transform into nightfall.
Day Two:
This morning head to Darwin’s Waterfront Precinct to enjoy a leisurely coffee with panoramic waterfront views. Take a dip in the turquoise lagoon, ride the waves at the Wave Pool or check out the local bars, cafes, boutiques and souvenir shops. If you feel like something more hands on, enjoy the adrenaline rush of a jet-ski adventure through Darwin’s harbour. Although this is not included in our Darwin Short Stay package, we can book this additionally for you!
For another Top End croc experience, keep your phone or camera handy while you venture on the Jumping Crocodile Cruise! It is a must-see do, as you get to see Australia’s ancient reptiles in their natural habitat. Here you will have the unforgettable encounter of getting up close and personal with Darwin’s saltwater crocodiles. How exciting!
To finish your day off, make your way to Darwin Harbour which offers the perfect setting for a sunset cruise, particularly as the deep pinks and oranges light up the sky reflecting beautifully off the water. Being the perfect vantage point to watch peaceful twinkling night lights along the city’s shoreline, it provides a fitting and relaxing way to embrace the laid-back Top End life. Add on a sumptuous Territory inspired dinner for a complete evening out. Get in touch with us to add this on to your Darwin Short Stay package.
Day Three:
To finish your last day in Darwin, venture out of the city to Litchfield National Park, where you can plunge yourself into nature’s incredibly beautiful waterholes and waterfalls. Favoured by many locals, this is the place to cool off in the rejuvenating, mineral infused waters and experience jaw dropping views. Ask us about adding on this full day tour with lunch.
Once you have refreshed yourself at your hotel after a day at Litchfield National Park, the award-winning Hotel Darwin is the place to be. Dating back to 1940, it is a Darwin institution and has been a long-standing watering-hole for many locals. Try a variety of local produce including fresh barramundi, thick rump steak and mouth-watering kangaroo pie! Stay and enjoy the relaxed environment as you meet, drink, eat and make friends or explore the city nightlife further and pop into The Trader Bar, Shennanigans, The Deck Bar and more for a fitting end to your stay in this warm and welcoming city.
Click here to book our Darwin Short Stay package or contact the NT Now team on 1800 854 897 or email deals@ntnow.com.au
Image credit: Tourism NT