Darwin

The capital of the vast, deserted Northern territory region, Darwin is built around a harbour more than twice the size of Sydney’s iconic offering. Closer to Jakarta than Canberra, this tropical city is home to more than 50 nationalities and is the gateway to Asia from the Antipodes. Australia’s only tropical city, Darwin suffers from severe humidity, and with the temperature hovering around 30-35 degrees for much of the year, be prepared for some stifling heat!

Darwin is a fascinating mix of festivals, after-dark markets, beaches, museums and nightlife, while outside of the city you’ll find many dramatic landscapes ranging from wild coasts to savannah woodlands, waterfalls and billabongs.

Darwin Facts

Founded in 1869, Darwin has a relaxed al fresco lifestyle, and is surrounded on three sides by the sea - hence the humidity. As a major allied military base during World War II, Darwin has an intriguing wartime history, and a number of military sites can still be visited today.

The city was actually rebuilt in 1974 following a devastating cyclone ”Cyclone Tracey” which hit the town. Today the city boasts one of Australia’s most youthful populations, and there is a distinctly lively vibe found here, with the epicentre of the nightlife found on vibrant Mitchell Street.

The city can be easily explored on foot, and you’ll find Darwin a colourful place to be - street markets, entertainers, cafes, bars and restaurants can be found at every turn. With excellent fishing and watersports facilities, and the Litchfield National Park on Darwin’s doorstep, adrenaline junkies won’t find themselves disappointed either.

Further afield, Darwin is an excellent base to explore the Top End, which includes the Kakadu National Park, Arnhem Land, Tiwi Islands and Katherine.

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Mindil Beach markets at sunset. Courtesy of Tourism Australia

Stokes Hill Wharf. Courtesy of Tourism Australia

Buzz Cafe, Cullen Bay. Courtesy of Tourism Australia

Salamanca Markets. Courtesy of Tourism Australia