The Ultimate 7 Day Darwin Itinerary, NT, Australia (2024)

Check out our epic 7 day Darwin itinerary for those spending one week in the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory!

Darwin is the travel hub of the Northern Territory and Australia’s Top End. Many view the city as a gateway to visiting the national parks of the Outback, such as Litchfield National Park, Kakadu National Park, Nitmiluk National Park, and more.

And it’s true, the natural beauty and Indigenous culture of the Northern Territory are one of the main reasons to visit Darwin. But the city itself has much to offer as well! And there are lots of lesser known attractions in and around the city that are worth visiting.

One week is an ideal amount of time to spend in Darwin. This gives you time to explore the city centre, take some road trips to the nearby parks of the Northern Territory, and have downtime to relax.

Here is our ultimate 7 day Darwin itinerary, which will hopefully help you plan a memorable getaway to Australia’s Top End.

7 Day Darwin Itinerary

Here is our perfect 7 day Darwin itinerary, encompassing the best of the city centre, nearby national parks, and surrounding nature.

The best way to plan out this itinerary is to book a comfortable hotel near downtown Darwin and hire a car. You can have more flexibility to explore on your own schedule during your week in Darwin with your own vehicle!

However, there are some amazing guided tours and day trips from Darwin as well. We’ll include links to the best tours if you’d prefer that to a self-drive adventure. But either way, this itinerary is totally flexible and you can alter it however you want.

Use this as a guide for your perfect 7 days in Darwin, as we think this itinerary showcases the best of the Darwin area in a logical, hassle-free way.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Day 1 – Explore Darwin City Centre

Start your week in Darwin by exploring the city centre. As the capital of the Northern Territory, Darwin has lots of history, culture, art, and natural beauty to admire.

You’ll have lots of cool excursions coming up in the next few days, so take today to just ease into the city. Get used to the Outback heat, eat some delicious food, and sightsee in downtown Darwin.

Darwin Museums

Darwin has plenty of cool museums to check out, and this is a great way to learn about the history, nature, and culture of the Darwin area. Start at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, where you can engage with Indigenous art, maritime history, and natural sciences.

Then visit the Darwin Military Museum, where you can learn about Darwin’s role in World War II, including the bombing of Darwin in 1942. The museum offers detailed exhibits, historical artifacts, and multimedia presentations.

You can also check out the Northern Territory Parliament House, which is part historical site and part museum. This architectural landmark includes exhibits about the Northern Territory’s political history and cultural heritage and has free guided tours for visitors.

George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens

Another highlight of Darwin is the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. Located just two kilometers from the city center, this tranquil oasis showcases the diverse flora of Northern Australia and other tropical regions.

Spanning 42 hectares, the gardens feature lush rainforests, vibrant tropical flowers, and a unique collection of cycads, orchids, and baobabs.

Visitors can explore themed areas such as the rainforest gully, the Madagascar garden, and the heritage trail, which highlights the gardens’ rich history since their establishment in 1886. The gardens also have walking trails, picnic tables, and a charming cafe on site.

Darwin Waterfront Precinct

No visit to a coastal city is complete without a stroll along the waterfront!

The Darwin Waterfront Precinct is a vibrant hub that has a variety of restaurants, cafes, shops, and local events.

Located near the city center, the precinct also has a saltwater recreation lagoon and a wave pool, making it a favorite spot for families and visitors seeking a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.

The grassy lawns and shaded areas provide perfect spots for picnics, while scenic boardwalks make for lovely waterside walks. It’s an ideal place to enjoy Darwin’s outdoor lifestyle, whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking up the relaxed atmosphere.

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Day 2 – Day Trip to Litchfield National Park

One of the best day trips from Darwin is Litchfield National Park. This stunning, lush national park is only an hour outside the city, so it’s a convenient one-day road trip to include in your itinerary.

Litchfield National Park is full of cascading waterfalls, native wildlife, and plenty of other natural wonders. There are lots of affordable day tours for those who prefer a local guide to show them around, or you can self-drive.

Here are some of the highlights in Litchfield National Park to check out on your road trip!

Wangi Falls

Wangi Falls is one of the most popular and picturesque attractions in the Northern Territory. Surrounded by lush monsoon forests, the twin waterfalls cascade into a large natural plunge pool.

It’s one of the best places to swim in Litchfield National Park during the dry season when conditions are safe. Wangi Falls has well-maintained walking trails, including a short loop that takes visitors to the top of the falls for breathtaking views.

Cathedral and Magnetic Termite Mounds

Another unique natural attraction in Litchfield National Park is the termite mounds. These towering structures are built by tiny termites, showcasing the incredible powers of nature.

The Magnetic Termite Mounds, unique to this region, are particularly interesting due to their flat, tombstone-like shape and precise north-south orientation, which helps regulate the internal temperature of the mounds.

Nearby, the massive Cathedral Termite Mounds can reach up to four meters in height and have stood for decades, a testament to the termites’ resilience and craftsmanship. Visitors can view these remarkable creations from designated boardwalks in Litchfield National Park.

Florence Falls

Litchfield National Park is like a lush oasis in the heart of the Outback, as the park is packed with amazing waterfalls! Aside from Wangi Falls, Florence Falls is one of the most famous cascades in the park.

This stunning twin waterfall falls into a clear, refreshing plunge pool surrounded by a beautiful tropical forest. Florence Falls is a picturesque swimming spot with cool waters providing a welcome escape from the tropical heat.

Visitors can reach Florence Falls via a scenic walking trail. There is a staircase leading down to the pool and a lookout platform with panoramic views of Litchfield National Park.

Buley Rockhole

Buley Rockhole is another one of the best places to swim in Litchfield National Park. There is a series of cascading rock pools and small waterfalls that provide the perfect setting for a relaxing and refreshing swim.

Surrounded by gorgeous greenery, Buley Rockhole is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The natural spa-like setting is ideal for families, with plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the scenery. Accessible via a short, easy walk from the parking area, Buley Rockhole is a must-visit destination in Litchfield National Park.

Tackling more hikes? See our guide to Hiking in Australia!

Day 3 – Local Activities around Darwin

After an action-packed road trip to Litchfield National Park, spend today hanging a bit closer to the Darwin city centre.

You can check out any of the local attractions that you may have missed on day 1, or you can drive out to some popular spots outside the city.

Territory Wildlife Park and Berry Springs Nature Park are two highlights of the Darwin area. They are right next to each other, and only a 40-minute drive from Darwin. If you’re up for more adventures today, we highly recommend checking out these spots!

Territory Wildlife Park

The Territory Wildlife Park offers an immersive experience with the wildlife and ecosystems of the Northern Territory.

Spread across a huge expanse of natural bushland, Territory Wildlife Park has exhibits that replicate the region’s diverse habitats, including wetlands, monsoon forests, and woodlands.

Visitors can get up close with native animals such as saltwater crocodiles, dingoes, wallabies, and local bird species in the free-flight aviary. Other highlights include the nocturnal house, where you can observe creatures like bilbies and ghost bats, and the daily presentations, such as the spectacular raptor display.

With walking trails, a shuttle train, and opportunities to learn about conservation efforts, the Territory Wildlife Park is both an educational and memorable experience for all ages.

Berry Springs Nature Park

After visiting Territory Wildlife Park, head right next door to the beloved Berry Springs Nature Park. The park features a series of freshwater springs, perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

The warm, crystal-clear waters of Berry Springs flow through the park, creating idyllic pools surrounded by native plants and trees.

Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the park’s well-maintained trails, which wind through monsoon forests and open woodlands, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as wallabies, birds, and reptiles. Berry Springs Nature Park is the perfect place to cool off surrounded by nature during your visit to Darwin.

Day 4 – Day Trip to Kakadu National Park

On day 4 in Darwin, take another road trip out to Kakadu National Park. As one of Australia’s largest national parks and a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site, Kakadu National Park is a true gem of the Northern Territory.

Known for its stunning landscapes, the park features rugged sandstone escarpments, beautiful wetlands, and picturesque rivers, along with a rich array of wildlife. Kakadu National Park is huge, so one day here really doesn’t do the park justice.

You have the option of skipping some of the other Darwin attractions and spending more time here! Otherwise, one day in Kakadu National Park is still going to be amazing. Consider booking a guided day tour so you have a local guide to show you around the park’s best sights.

If you’re self-driving, here are some highlights to try and hit in Kakadu National Park.

Indigenous Rock Art Sites

Kakadu National Park is renowned for its exceptional Aboriginal rock art sites, some of the oldest and most significant in the world. These ancient rock art galleries, dating back over 20,000 years, provide insight into the cultural and spiritual life of the park’s Indigenous inhabitants.

The Ubirr Rock Art Sites are the most well-known, where visitors can view vibrant paintings that depict animals, human figures, and mythological beings. Nourlangie is another amazing rock art site that showcases intricate artworks related to the region’s Dreamtime stories.

These rock art sites are not only important for their historical value but also for their continuing cultural significance to the traditional owners of the land, the Bininj/Mungguy people.

Cahills Crossing

Cahills Crossing is a famous spot in Kakadu National Park where the East Alligator River meets the Arnhem Land escarpment. Known for its strong tidal currents and resident saltwater crocodiles that inhabit the area, Cahills Crossing is one of the best places to spot crocodiles in the wild.

The crossing itself is a shallow, often submerged causeway that allows access to the eastern part of Kakadu National Park. But it’s best known for the spectacular sight of crocs swimming in the river, especially during the dry season when the water levels drop.

Just note that you can only actually cross the road with a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, and the water has to be low enough. Most people just come here to look for a saltwater crocodile without actually driving across as it can be treacherous.

Explore more fascinating sights in the Northern Territory with a trip to Uluru!

Jim Jim Falls

With its towering, 200-meter-high cliff face, Jim Jim Falls is a spectacular sight in Kakadu National Park. The falls cascade into a large, crystal-clear plunge pool at the base, surrounded by dramatic rock formations and forests.

Access to Jim Jim Falls requires a 4WD journey along unsealed tracks, making it an adventurous destination for those seeking a more remote experience in the Northern Territory.

During the dry season, visitors can enjoy swimming in the pool, though caution is always advised due to the presence of crocodiles in Kakadu National Park. The hike to the falls is also an unforgettable experience, offering opportunities to take in the unique flora and fauna of the Top End.

Yellow Water Billabong Cruise

A Yellow Water Billabong Cruise is another popular experience in Kakadu National Park.

The serene Yellow Water Billabong is rich in birdlife, crocodiles, and native flora, providing a unique perspective of Kakadu’s wetlands.

A guided boat cruise will take you through winding channels and open waterways, where you can spot iconic species like jabirus, magpie geese, and sea eagles, as well as observe crocodiles basking on the riverbanks.

The early morning or late afternoon cruises are particularly popular, offering a chance to witness the wildlife in Kakadu National Park when it’s most active.

Day 5-6 – Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge

Another highlight of the Northern Territory near Darwin is Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge. This fantastic location is a bit of a trek from Darwin at about 3.5 hours away.

Though you can head to Nitmiluk National Park and back in a day, it will be more comfortable to spend the night in Katherine.

Wake up early on Day 5 and enjoy a leisurely road trip south through the rugged landscapes of the Northern Territory. Then explore the Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge for the day, spend the night in Katherine, and take your time driving back to Darwin on Day 6.

You can also pack it into a single-day road trip, in which case a guided day trip can help you optimise your itinerary. Or skip it and just spend more time relaxing in Darwin. However, many consider Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge to be a highlight of Australia’s Top End. So it’s worth making the road trip!

Katherine Gorge

Katherine Gorge is a breathtaking destination in the Northern Territory. Made up of 13 sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River over millions of years, Katherine Gorge blends natural beauty and cultural significance.

Katherine Gorge holds deep spiritual importance for the Jawoyn people, the traditional custodians of the land, who have a rich connection to its history and stories.

Visitors can explore Katherine Gorge through hiking trails, guided tours, or boat cruises. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Katherine Gorge and spot diverse wildlife such as freshwater crocodiles, wallabies, and birds.

Katherine Gorge is a must-see destination for anyone seeking adventure and or cultural insight near Darwin!

Edith Falls

Other than the famous Katherine Gorge, Edith Falls is another highlight of Nitmiluk National Park.

Edith Falls, or Leliyn as it is known to the local Jawoyn people, is a stunning natural attraction with cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. The falls are surrounded by rugged sandstone cliffs and lush vegetation, providing a picturesque setting for swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

A network of trails, including the popular Leliyn Trail, leads to breathtaking viewpoints and upper pools around Edith Falls, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Stay overnight in Katherine

After an action-packed day exploring Katherine Gorge and Edith Falls in the national park, spend the night in Katherine and relax in a laid-back country town.

Katherine has several hotels, motels, resorts, and lodges to choose from, but be sure to book your spot in advance as options are slightly limited in the Outback.

If you’re just visiting Katherine Gorge as a day trip, you can of course skip this overnight stay and just road trip back to Darwin. But remember, it’s a 3.5 hour drive!

Katherine Hot Springs

After a night in Katherine, there is one more must-see local attraction to check out besides Katherine Gorge and Edith Falls.

Katherine Hot Springs is a collection of natural thermal springs on the Katherine River. It’s a stunning spot that allows visitors a chance to unwind in the soothing 32°C waters while enjoying the serene, shaded environment.

Easily accessible from Katherine town, the area features walking paths, picnic spots on the Katherine River, and viewing platforms that add to the experience.

The springs hold cultural significance for the local Jawoyn people and are a reminder of the region’s connection to nature. Whether as a stopover or a destination, Katherine Hot Springs provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Outback.

After soaking in the Katherine Hot Springs, take your time as you road trip back to Darwin for a final day in the city.

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Day 7 – Relax in Darwin City

You’ve had a massive week of exploring Northern Territory hotspots like Litchfield National Park, Kakadu National Park, Berry Springs Nature Park, Katherine Gorge, and more!

So use your final day in Darwin to just relax, soak in the city vibes, and hit any more local attractions that interest you. You can go shopping for souvenirs at the Smith Street Mall, join a sunset cruise around Darwin Harbor, or grab some food on the popular Mitchell Street.

Charles Darwin National Park

If you still have energy for an excursion on your last day in Darwin, consider visiting Charles Darwin National Park. Located just a short, 10-minute drive outside the city center, the park showcases the natural beauty, Indigenous heritage, and military history of the Darwin area.

The park is home to diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, monsoon forests, and grasslands, which provide habitats for a variety of bird species and native wildlife.

It also features remnants of World War II infrastructure, such as bunkers and storage facilities, which played a key role in Darwin’s wartime defense.

Visitors can explore scenic walking and cycling trails, enjoy panoramic views of Darwin Harbour, or relax in picnic areas surrounded by lush tropical landscapes. The park also celebrates the cultural significance of the Larrakia people, the traditional custodians of the land, with interpretive signs and exhibits highlighting their enduring connection to the area.

Mindil Beach

There are quite a few beaches near Darwin, but Mindil Beach is one of the best. Located just outside the main city center, you can drive here in a couple of minutes, take public transport, or walk here from downtown.

Mindil Beach is known for its stunning sunsets, relaxed atmosphere, and vibrant beach culture. The golden sands and clear blue waters make it an ideal spot for a peaceful day by the sea, whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a beach walk.

The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are the highlight of the area, where visitors can sample diverse food, shop for local crafts, and enjoy live music as the sun sets over the Arafura Sea. With its laid-back vibe and breathtaking views, Mindil Beach is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Darwin.

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