Darwin, Capital of the Top End
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Asko Meriläinen
Matkasuunnittelijasi, yrittäjä
This July, we visited Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory. Winter is the oerfect season for a visit to “The Top End” with dry and sunny weather, low humidity and comfortable temperatures around 30°C during the day.
Best time to visit Darwin?
You can travel to Darwin year-round, but the best time is from April to October to avoid the humid, hot, wet season.
Easy to navigate by walking
The City of Darwin is compact and walkable, with The Esplanade ideal for morning strolls and offering nice views. The Mall, the main shopping street, hosts most of the shops.
The Waterfront precinct in Darwin is a great place to relax, have a swim, or enjoy a lovely meal at one of its many restaurants. We joined a 2-hour sunset dinner cruise in Darwin Harbour, which included a buffet and amazing sunset views from the sea.
Crocodiles, Good Food and Kakadu
A must-see spot in Darwin is Crocosaurus Cove, home to the famous Saltwater Crocodiles, the top residents of the Top End. You can even swim with these remarkable animals, from the safety of a specially designed cage. The site also features turtles, snakes, lizards and other reptiles native to this part of Australia.
Twice a week, on Thursday and Sunday evenings, the Mindil Beach Sunset Market is a must-visit. Locals gather here with friends to enjoy delicious food, live music, and a laid-back vibe. It’s also an excellent spot to buy locally made souvenirs, arts and crafts. The markets operate only during the dry season, from May to October. Mindil Beach is about a 30-minute walk from the city or a quick Uber or taxi ride.
Darwin also provides access to Australia’s largest National Park, the UNESCO-listed Kakadu, which is just a 2-3 hour drive away. You can take a guided day tour to Kakadu, but the best way to explore the park is by self-driving.
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Our Dinner Recommendations
Have dinner at the Darwin Sailing Club (located outside the city in Fanny Bay) to enjoy stunning sunset views, or try excellent seafood at Crustaceans on the Wharf (Stokes Wharf at the Darwin Waterfront).
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