When is the best time to visit Darwin?
Dry season
The dry season (June to September) is one of the best periods to travel on return flights to Darwin. Temperatures are comfortable, the humidity isn't too high, and the conditions are much better suited to getting outdoors and exploring the Darwin waterfront or nearby national parks. All the hiking trails are open, and most roads are accessible for those wanting to hop into a 4WD and go off-road for a bit. One of the downsides of travelling in the dry season - especially towards the tail end - is that the waterfalls and pools may begin to dry up. Book your flights to Darwin for the beginning of the dry season if you’re keen to paddle in some of the waterfall pools in the national parks around the city. The dry season is also when the national parks are at their busiest. Those who know they want to travel to the Northern Territory in dry season should book their airfare to Darwin as soon as they spot an excellent deal or know their travel dates. Be sure to get in quick to book your accommodation too, especially if you want to stay close to any of the national parks.
Wet season
Wet season in Darwin runs from November to March. It is considered the off-season for travellers heading to the NT on flights to Darwin, and those not put off by the humid conditions can keep their eyes out for great-value flights to Darwin during this time. Despite the lower tourist numbers, the wet season is a beautiful time of year to visit the Top End. The waterfalls in Kakadu and Litchfield National Park are full, and the scenic flights over them are spectacular. One of the biggest challenges of visiting on cheap flights to Darwin in the wet season is that the increase of rainfall can make it hard to get around. Be careful when attempting any river crossings, or driving out into more remote landscapes. Those looking to hit the roads around Darwin during the wet season - or at any time of year - might consider hiring a 4WD (which can be done with Webjet at the time of booking your airfare). A 4WD is much better equipped to navigate the roads of NT, as well as any rough terrain you might encounter. Be sure to read the rental agreement carefully, and always tell a third party where you’re headed and when you’re expected back before leaving Darwin.
What are the best places to stay in Darwin?
Central Business District (CBD)
Travelling on airfare to Darwin for your first trip to the NT capital? Accommodation in the CBD is a great option. There is a good variety of hotels within the CBD, and a stay at any will put you within walking distance of shops, restaurants and some of Darwin’s top sights. Some of the best things to see include the House of Government and the George Brown Botanical Gardens.
The Gardens
If you'd rather stay somewhere further from the city, book a hotel in The Gardens. The suburb is close to the Botanic Garden, as well as Darwin's most visited stretch of sand, Mindil Beach. If you can, plan your flights to Darwin over a weekend so you can attend Mindil Beach Sunset Market on Sundays. The market runs over the dry season (May to October), and is one of the most popular things to do in the city for locals and tourists alike.
Larrakeyah
Larrakeyah is an excellent choice for younger travellers deciding where to stay once arrived flights to Darwin. This inner-city suburb is a 16-minute drive from Darwin International Airport (DRW), and is close to nightlife options like the Stone House Wine Bar, The Precinct, and The Deck Bar.
Parap
Parap is the best neighbourhood for foodies headed to the NT on flights to Darwin. It's a quick 10-minute drive from Darwin International Airport (DRW) and is home to the multicultural Parap Village Market. Come here to sample fare from around Australia and the world, and pick up a couple of souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
What's on in Darwin?
Darwin Festival
Darwin Festival is one of the biggest events of the year. Each year in August, Darwin comes alive with cabaret, theatre, dance, and visual arts performances. The festival is held over 18 days, giving travellers with flights to Darwin more than enough time to experience everything it has to offer. There are also delicious food stalls and pop-up bars to explore while you listen to some of Darwin's and Australia's most popular bands and artists.
Darwin Fringe
For art lovers thinking about buying tickets to Darwin, look to time your flights over July. This will put you in the city during the Darwin Fringe Festival, where you can check out artworks by emerging local artists. The 10-day event encompasses about 100 shows from more than 10 different art genres.
The Dreamedia Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival
If you need an excuse to buy those cheap flights to Darwin, the Dreamedia Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival is a free annual event held in May. It's an outdoor lifestyle festival, with plenty of live music, exhibitions, dance and spoken word performances. The event takes place at the start of the dry season, which is high season in Darwin. You should expect prices for tickets to Darwin to be higher than usual if you book your trip last minute.
When is The Best Time to Visit Darwin?
Darwin has a tropical climate that is categorised by a wet and dry season.
The best time to visit Darwin is from June to September. The humidity is low, rainfall is minimal, and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. September is also ideal for birdwatching when one-third of Australia's bird species visit The Top End.
But the ideal weather conditions, make this time of year high season for Darwin. You can expect higher airfare prices and hotels to raise their rates. It's best to book a couple of months ahead to ensure availability and lock in better prices before they skyrocket.
The wet season runs from October to April. The weather during this period is hot, humid and there is the chance of flash floods and cyclones. But if you're travelling on a budget, you'll find lower airfare prices and hotel rates during this period. You'll also have Darwin's top attractions to yourself, and you won't have to deal with crowds of tourists.
If you're looking for a combination of both seasons, plan your trip for May. The waterfalls inside Kakadu National Park will be pulsing, and you won't have to worry about the risk of flooding. Temperatures are also more comfortable, and you might be able to snag a few deals before the dry season crowds arrive.
Airports in Darwin
Darwin Airport
Darwin Airport is the only airport serving Darwin and is the tenth busiest in Australia. It operates routes to domestic and international destinations with Sydney and Brisbane being two of it's most popular routes. The airport is a hub for Airnorth and a focus city for Qantas.
Getting To and From Darwin Airport
The easiest way to get from the airport is with a cab. You'll find the taxi ranks outside of the arrivals terminal. Trips into the city usually cost AUD 25-30, and you'll also need to pay an AUD 3 exit toll.
A more affordable option is the Darwin City Airport Shuttle. The service runs 24 hours a day, 7-days a week and you'll find the booking desk outside of the baggage claim area.
There is also a free shuttle bus for passengers staying at the Novotel Darwin Airport Hotel or the Mercure Darwin Airport Resort.
Other transport options include Buslink, as well as coach and charter services.
If you prefer having your own set of wheels, several car rental companies are operating from the airport.
