How many days do you need in Darwin?

Darwin is a nature lover’s town, a vibrant landscape surrounded by awe-inspiring natural wonderlands and tropical wilderness.

While many travellers use the city as a jumping point to the incredible Kakadu and Litchfield national parks, the city itself has stepped up in recent years for offering its own tropical style.

From famous markets to gorgeous gardens, Indigenous heritage and a vibrant arts scene, Darwin has stepped out as its own amazing destination that can be enjoyed between national park visits!

Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in the city, and this includes a venture out to the breathtaking Kakadu National Park.

Let’s take a look at some of the awesome things you can do in this holiday haven.

• Eat like a local

  Word has spread far and wide that Darwin is a city of amazing markets. From the gorgeous backdrop and mouth watering local food at the Mindil Beach Sunset Market, to weekend spaces like Palmerston, Parap, Rapid Creek and Nightcliff, the flavours are diverse and delicious, and there is always a spot of live music to boogie to after your meal.

• Refresh at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct

  Regardless of whether this is your first or fifth trip to Darwin, you know it can be seriously hot. So, one of the best ways to chill out, cool down and refresh in this toasty town is down at the waterfront precinct. Here, wave pools, lagoon swimming, craft beers and shaded gardens await you like an urban oasis. The lush parklands are complete with local art to enjoy while you recharge your batteries, and the views over the harbour from Stokes Hill Wharf are unrivalled!

• Of course, you have to see Kakadu…

  Kakadu National Park is an unforgettable experience, and easily one of the world’s most surreal natural wonderlands. From the ancient Indigenous shelters at Nourlangie to saltwater croc spotting in the swamplands, to the park’s pristine swimming holes, there truly is nothing quite like the Kakadu National Park. Of course, you could easily spend days traversing this ancient dreamscape, but one day is enough to take in some of its key highlights and see why it is such a memorable and incredibly special place.

• Enjoy the tropical splendour

  Darwin truly is one of the best places to visit in Australia, both for its vibrant culture and as a gateway to some of the world’s most majestic scenery. Three days is perfect for experiencing the city and having a “lite” adventure at Kakadu – either way you will have an amazing time!

Related article: Is it worth going to Darwin?