Australia’s northern tropical city, “the colourful city”, Darwin is where multicultural immersion pervades with a calm and laid-back lifestyle. With a local community of more than 60 nationalities, your tastebuds will be tantalised by the aromas and cuisines of excellent local Darwin restaurants available at your fingertips. From the bustling night street markets reminiscent of Asian flavours and cultural arts and social entertainment, Darwin promises a unique sense of discovery and a memorable cultural experience. Be sure to visit Mindil Beach Sunset markets available during the dry season months every Thursday and Sunday and only 7 minutes from the city’s 5-star hotels. A visit to Darwin cannot be without an Aboriginal culture tour to learn about the history of the land, the great Australian outback or exploring at least 1 of Australia’s famous national parks. Whether waterfall watching at Australia’s biggest national park, Kakadu or seeking out a spot for relaxation at the thermal pools at Mataranka, south of Katherine. These destinations are great for full-day trips so you can return back to your luxury hotel and overlook the harbour while winding down. Ready for the great outdoors? Ready to say g’day to a crocodile?
Cnr Woods & Gardener Streets Darwin, Darwin CBD, 0800 Darwin, Australia
Rating: 8.4 Very Good
Want somewhere a little more like home on your next visit to Darwin? Then the Magnum Serviced Apartments should really fit the bill! Neither a unit nor a traditional hotel, this comfortable apartment style accommodation enjoys a prominent location – in the middle of the CBD and close to the city’s major tourist attractions.
Offering homely accommodation that has up to 3 bedrooms, all apartments are fully self-contained and air conditioned. They are furnished with a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine and dryer, a large dining and living area, private balcony and large living area with a flat-screen TV. They also offer guests use of free wi-fi too.
The apartment has barbeque facilities onsite. While some of the best restaurants in Darwin, including the likes of Phat Mago, Nonna Dumplings, Pokelicious and the Moorish Café are all just a short walk or drive away from the property. Some of the best bars include Charlie’s, The Trader Bar and the Stone House Wine Bar & Kitchen.
The rooftop infinity pool is a big hit amongst guests. While corporate travellers enjoy the business facilities. The apartments also offer a grocery delivery service and there is a tour desk at reception who can book tickets for all the major sights and attractions in the area. There is also a concierge and daily cleaning service too.
7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin CBD, 0800 Darwin, Australia
Rating: 8.3 Very Good
One of the best luxe accommodation providers in the city, the Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront enjoys a stunning location. Nestled right on the water, down by the promenade, it is a stone’s throw from many of the city’s main attractions including the Esplanade, Wave Lagoon, Stuart Park and the Fort Hill Wharf.
Showcasing contemporary décor, the hotel offers light and airy one and two-bedroom apartments or studio rooms. Most of which feature spectacular views over the beach, park or lagoon. Rooms come with private bathrooms including a deep soaking bathtub, as well as beds with premium bedding, a plasma screen TV with satellite channels and tea/coffee making facilities.
Flavoursome Australian cuisine, championing the best in local produce, is available at the onsite Curve Restaurant and Bar. Open every day of the week, for breakfast, lunch and dinner the venue is a relaxed setting in which to enjoy your meal. If you would prefer to eat out, multiple dining options are within easy walking distance of the hotel.
Guests can enjoy use of a swimming pool or blow off some steam in the fully equipped fitness centre. There are also 4 impressive function rooms for weddings and events, a 24 hour reception, concierge and ticket service. In addition the hotel has a professional business centre and offers secured parking.
64 Cavenagh St, Darwin CBD, 0800 Darwin, Australia
Rating: 8.1 Very Good
Providing the ambiance of a luxe hotel, the Travelodge Resort Darwin is great choice of accommodation to book. Located in the vibrant epicenter of the Central Business District, this chic, modern hotel is close to all the city’s main highlights. With Crocosaurus Cove, Darwin Entertainment Centre and Bicentennial Park Darwin all being less than 600 metres away.
Refurbished not so long ago, the property offers 192 rooms and 32 self-contained townhouses. Beautifully decorated and appointed, they all have new air conditioning units, as well as beds and smart TVs. In addition they have an updated bathroom with shower and an in-room safe. The townhouses come with a kitchen and separate lounge and dining areas.
The Dine at Treetops Restaurant is open every day. Offering a delicious range of meals, snacks and cocktails. Barbeque facilities are also available for guests to use in tropical outdoor setting. While the best dining options in Darwin are easily accessed from the resort If you would prefer to venture out for something to eat.
One of the main showpieces of the resort is its swimming pool which features a waterfall. This is perfect to splash around in on a hot Darwin day. The resort also has a fitness room, a 24-hour reception and 5 function spaces for meetings and events. There is also a tour desk and car hire facility onsite too.
116 The Esplanade, Darwin CBD, 0800 Darwin, Australia
Rating: 7.7 Good
If you are looking for deluxe hotel accommodation right on the Esplanade in the Darwin CBD, then you should seriously consider the DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade. Just a 5 minute walk from the Harbour and Mitchell Street, the property is also close to the State Square, Wave Lagoon and Mindil Markets.
Recently revamped, all rooms have been decorated in evocative tones that are synonymous with the Northern Territory and accentuate the views of the harbour and Esplanade. Light and airy, this air conditioned accommodation is equipped with a TV with cable channels, a private bathroom with a bathtub, a mini bar and tea and coffee making facilities.
Its onsite restaurant and bar, Aqua is open from 6am to 10pm and serves up a mouth-watering selection of Mediterranean dishes with a Territorian twist. Should you prefer to eat out, the cream of Darwin’s dining and drinking options are just a short drive or walk away from the hotel.
Boasting an impressive swimming pool and stunning sun terrace, the hotel also offers multi-lingual staff, a concierge service and a 24 hour front desk. It also has a barber/beauty shop, a well-equipped fitness centre, wedding venues, and dedicated meeting and events spaces. Free parking is also available to guests too.
1 Sir Norman Brearly Drive, 0812 Darwin, Australia
Rating: 7.3 Good
A brilliant option for business travellers, the Mercure Darwin Airport Resort is just 300 metres from the Darwin International Airport. Providing comfortable and convenient 4 star accommodation, this property, which is part of the Accor group, is located 11km from all the main sights and attractions in the city centre.
Set in lush tropical gardens, the resort boasts 181 modern rooms specifically designed for the discerning business traveller. All air-conditioned rooms feature en suite bathrooms and private balconies or patios. In addition they have flat screen televisions with cable channels and coffee/tea making facilities. Some of the units have cooking facilities and a spa bath too.
Cossies Poolside Bar and Bistro provides a casual indoor and outdoor dining option in a relaxed atmosphere. The property also has bbq facilities for those wanting to cook sausages or steak. Should you wish to try out some of Darwin’s famed gastronomy, the best cafes, restaurants and bars in the city are just a 15 minute drive away.
The outdoor swimming pool is one of many great facilities the hotel offers. Others include a fitness centre, free airport transfers, a library, ATM on site and a 24 hour front desk. They also have a laundry with dry cleaning and ironing service as well as a business centre and rooms set aside for meetings and events.
7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin CBD, 0800 Darwin, Australia
Rating: 8.0 Very Good
Another great option in the heart of downtown, the Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront is an excellent 4 star hotel with a central location. Close to the Wave Lagoon, Crocosauras Cove, Smith Street Mall and the Esplanade, it will keep you within close proximity of all the best sights and attractions the city has to offer.
The hotel presents 121 stylishly decorated, air-conditioned rooms, which showcase views of the city or harbour. Specifically decorated to create a nice ‘vibe’, each room features a flat screen television, large bathroom, a work desk, mini bar and tea and coffee making facilities. For your electronic device the USB clock radio also has charging points.
Within the accommodation, the Curve Cafe and Bar is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It offers hearty comfort food made from fresh Aussie produce and a fabulous selection of beers, spirits and wines. If you would rather dine out, there are numerous world class restaurant and café options within short walking distance of the premises.
Guests can enjoy a wave swimming pool or chill out in the spa pool. They can also use a fully equipped fitness centre, while the tour desk can book tickets for a range of activities and excursions. The property also offers cutting edge business facilities which can be used for conferences, events and meetings.
19 Kitchener Drive, Darwin CBD, 0800 Darwin, Australia
Rating: 9.1 Superb
Located in the heart of the city, the Darwin Waterfront Luxury Suites offer guests stylish accommodation in an unbeatable location. A short stroll to the Wave Lagoon, the property is a convenient base to explore the region. With the Esplanade, State Square, Doctor’s Gully and Chinese Temple and Museum all within easy reach of it.
Offering a range of one, two or three bedroom apartments, each of the suites provide the comforts of a ‘home away from home’. A fully equipped kitchen, king bed, flat-screen TV, Nespresso coffee machine and laundry are just some of the amenities you can expect. All units also have a balcony with stunning views over the water.
As well as the kitchen, guests can make use of onsite barbeques. If you would rather eat out Darwin has a fabulous range of dining options within close proximity of the accommodation. This includes the PepperBerry Restaurant, Phat Mango, Pee Wee’s at The Point and Wharf One Food & Wine. All of which come highly recommended.
Guests at the property can make use of a Toyota Corolla 5-door sedan car to transport them around the city. There is one free underground car parking space per booking. The property also boasts a swimming pool, shops onsite, a barber/beauty shop and also a picnic area. Management can also book tours for you too.
21 Knuckey Street, Darwin CBD, 0800 Darwin, Australia
Rating: 6.9 Pleasant
Rydges Darwin Central Hotel has an exterior that is extraordinary, modern and spectacular in the same time. In the heart of Darwin, close to Gardens Golf Course and Crocosaurus Cove, this luxury hotel is a truly desirable base for those wishing to explore the area’s attractions or have a pleasant drink in the myriad bars or cafes nearby.
All the rooms and suites are elegantly furnished, and come with spacious bathrooms and luxury bathroom amenities. The equipment is simple but very practical, everything is for the comfort of the guests. The minibars are fully stocked with the finest spirits of the region, which can be enjoyed with admiring the wonderful view of the city.
In addition to room service, the 5-star hotel offers a wide variety of dining options. Fans of fashionable Japanese, Indonesian and Vietnamese cuisine can also find a restaurant they will truly love, but if guests are looking for some classic dish, Salvatores Café offers sophisticated Italian cuisine made from the freshest ingredients.
The staff at Rydges Darwin Central are committed to the perfect organization of the highest quality events. Whether it’s a conference, a business meeting, a wedding or any other informal event, you just have to sit back and the well-prepared staff will take care of the highest level of satisfaction for all kind of needs.
6 Carey Street, Darwin CBD, 0800 Darwin, Australia
Rating: 8.1 Very Good
Ramada Suites are just a few minutes drive from Darwin International Airport. All around, with the best restaurants in the city, bustling shopping streets, colorful nightlife and of course the waterfront, it makes the luxury hotel an optimal destination. A short drive will take you to the dazzling, huge and truly lush Charles Darwin National Park which is a must to see in the region.
The 5-star hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, each with a balcony overlooking either the city or the waterfront. The rooms and suites are simply and elegantly furnished, with everything you need for a real break. A private kitchen with all the necessary utensils, a spacious bathroom with premium bath accessories, and a separate lounge.
On the rooftop terrace, you can enjoy excellent cocktails and quality spirits with panoramic views of the harbour. In Horizon Café, an à la carte breakfast is available to guests every day of the week, as well as different trendy dishes made from fresh and seasonal ingredients during the day.
The luxurious hotel features a 28-meter outdoor saltwater pool with stunning views of the Harbour of Darwin. There is also a fully air-conditioned gym with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, and a separate children’s playground on site for the little ones.
32 Mitchell Street, Darwin CBD, 0800 Darwin, Australia
Rating: 7.6 Good
The luxury hotel is located in one of the most elegant districts of the city, close to the waterfront and the gleaming shopping streets. A few steps from Hilton Darwin, everything is full of elegance, galleries and various art exhibitions await those interested. In addition, top-quality spirit shops, jewelry stores and boutiques of world-famous fashion brands are within walking distance.
The luxury rooms and suites offer Harbour views, and their elegant furnishings exude luxury and quality, and, of course, king size beds are standard in all rooms and suites. The elegant furnishings are mainly playing in different shades of brown, black and gray. The rooms also have a working corner, which provides all the comfort for guests who take the work with them.
The 5-star hotel obviously has an excellent restaurant and bar. PepperBerry Restaurant pays special attention to detail, combining modern Australian flavors with bush spices in a truly upscale way paired with impeccable service. The Palm Court Bar & Lounge offers a premium selection of champagne, wine and delightful snacks in a pleasant setting.
For active guests, there is also an outdoor pool and a fitness center with all the necessary equipment. There are several meeting rooms in the elegant building, perfectly appointed with the necessary technical equipment and can host about 300 guests. Hilton Darwin has a wedding coordinator as well, so the young couple can prepare for the glorious day in the greatest peace of mind.
Darwin is not so much a travel destination, but a state of mind. Famed for its wonderful weather, rich multicultural mix of food, vibrant outdoor markets, massive harbour and a plethora of waterside attractions, the capital city of the Top End is a place like no other. So why not treat yourself to a short break, in a luxury hotel in Darwin, and see for yourself what makes this city so great.
Darwin is well known for its incredible sunsets and one of the best ways to see them is on a cruise around the harbour. There are a host of tours you can book, most of which also provide fabulous three course dinners. But if you would rather savour the experience away from others why not do it in style and hire a luxury yacht? Sitting on a private deck with a beer or a wine, watching the fiery sun drop below the horizon, is one of the most serene experiences you could ever wish to have.
If you are a bit of a thrill seeker you should definitely take the opportunity to go skydiving. Especially when you will get to land on a beach. Top End Tandems run a series of jumps throughout the day with highly skilled instructors, which land on Nightcliff beach. A fantastic experience, the unique views you will get of Darwin, the harbour and the surrounding city will stay with you for the rest of your days.
You may have seen footage of them whizzing around the Everglades in Florida, but did you know you can ride an airboat in Darwin too? Departing from Stokes Hill these thrilling airboat tours will cruise you through crocodile infested mangroves, which provide fantastic views of Darwin Harbour along the way. Then when you reach clearer waters you will zoom along at high speed along the surface. The sound of the V8 aircraft engine is deafening, so you will be given ear-plugs to drown it out, but the joy you will experience will leave you grinning from ear-to-ear.
Bird’s have always had the right idea when it comes to taking in the views of Darwin. So why not see what they see and enjoy a helicopter ride around the city? Various tours of 30 mins to 45 mins will take you over Darwin. Showcasing its stunning monsoon forests, bays, mangroves and wilderness, as well as its vibrant city centre. You will also see the cliffs of Nightcliff, Hope Inlet and Casuarina Beach on this unforgettable aerial experience.
Even when compared to the multi-ethnic nature of Darwin, the fantastic Tiwi Islands offer a cultural experience like no other. Home to the Tiwi people, the islands feature the only aboriginal community in Australia you don’t require a permit to visit. The locals are renowned for their congeniality and love of AFL and the island itself is beautiful. Located about a 2.5-hour boat ride from Darwin, it is an easy day trip to do, either as part of a full-day organized tour, or simply by yourself.
Take a day out from Darwin to explore the wonderful Kakadu National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed park is rich in Aboriginal heritage. On a full-day tour from Darwin you will be taken to a plethora of incredible historical sights, like the ancient rock art of Ubirr Rock. You will also embark upon a Guluyambi cultural cruise along the East Alligator River, with an indigenous guide who proudly explains the history of the Arnhem Land. A delicious lunch will also be provided.