The gateway to the vast, rugged landscapes of the spectacular Northern Territory, Darwin is a surprisingly laid-back seaside city. Closer to its island neighbours in the Timor Sea than to the rest of Australia, this humid location has a distinctly tropical feel. There’s a small selection of special hotels and serviced apartments in Darwin, mostly clustered around the CBD and the lively waterfront. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, our Gurus’ pick of the best places to stay in Darwin promises the ideal springboard for making the most of your time in the city.

Stroll around central Darwin for a sense of the city’s relaxed atmosphere. You’ll find top boutiques on Smith Street, a buzzy bar and restaurant scene around the striking Waterfront Precinct, and some excellent museums and galleries. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is not to be missed, nor are the annual arts, culture and music festivals. Delve into the city’s history on a tour of Parliament House, or wander through the bustling Mindil Beach Sunset Markets or Saturday morning Parap Village Market to pickup fresh produce and artisanal crafts created by the city’s cosmopolitan community.

Adventurers will adore fishing trips to the nearby Tiwi Islands, sea and river cruises, and outings to the nearby Charles Darwin National Park. Crocosaurus Cove is home to over 1,000 reptiles, whilst the Botanical Gardens are home to astonishing rare flora. Take little ones to fun-filled waterparks, or catch a screening at the popular Deckchair Cinema, where city dwellers gather to see films under the stars. Many of the best places to stay in Darwin are just a short amble away.

The Best Places to Stay in Darwin

For Great Value

• Argus Hotel is a modern property in central Darwin, with compact, affordable rooms. Simple spaces are clean, modern and functional, and guests share access to a refreshing swimming pool. A great base for exploring the city as a couple or with friends and family.
• H on Smith Hotel, on lively Smith Street, is a trendy contemporary spot with crisp white linens, smart bathrooms — the best of which have sink-tub bathtubs — and big picture windows. The relaxed poolside restaurant specialises in modern Asian cuisine, and the best of the city is right on your doorstep. Also very reasonably priced.

For Families or Groups

• Rydges Darwin Central is a smart city hotel just a couple of hundred metres from the lively esplanade. Spacious rooms offer flexible options for families and groups, with extra beds in rooms decorated in white, grey and turquoise. Splash around in the plunge pool and feast on Italian fare at Salvatore's Café.
• Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront offers chic, white-on-white guest rooms with pale wooden furnishings, light blue accents and harbour views. The Waterfront Precinct brims with bars and restaurants, perfect for buzzy evenings out. The pool and relaxed café will be popular with families, who can also add roll-away beds to bigger bedrooms.
• Waterfront Luxury Suites are a sleek and stylish collection of multi-bedroom contemporary apartments overlooking the Waterfront Precinct. Well-equipped units have kitchens, sitting rooms, dining spaces and shaded balconies. A lovely luxury choice for those dreaming of more independence on their city break. Cook up a storm for the whole family with produce from the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets.

For a Seaside Resort

• Mindil Beach Casino Resort, on the northern side of the city, promises an extensive resort complex with multiple bars and restaurants, as well as late-night entertainment aplenty. Swish resort rooms and suites with big bathtubs overlook a refreshing lagoon pool, and guests can stroll down to the beach, follow coastal walking paths or catch the sunset over the Arafura Sea. Beachfront luxury.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Darwin?

• Fly to Darwin International Airport, and take a bus or taxi into town. Most hotels will also be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance. Alternatively, catch the Ghan train from Adelaide if you would prefer to travel overland from South Australia, crossing the country in an epic two-day adventure — reputedly one of the world's best railway journeys.
• Darwin is well-connected by public transport, but you may want the independence of your own ride if you're planning to explore beyond the city. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Summers (December to February) are very hot and humid, with temperatures hovering at around 33°C and more rainfall. Visit between June and August for cooler temperatures, dry weather and more possibilities of exploring.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Alice Springs.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Northern Territory.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Darwin