How to Spend 2 Days in Darwin

Two days gives enough time to take in Darwin’s historical highlights and enjoy some of the area’s natural attractions; planning ahead and booking tickets in advance is a great way to maximize your time. Here’s how to spend two days in Darwin. 

Day 1: Sun, Sea, and Sightseeing

**Morning:**Spend your morning on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which takes you to all of Darwin’s top sights and provides a stress-free way to get your bearings. Hop off at the Museum of the Northern Territory, stroll around the botanical gardens, or browse the shops at Smith Street Mall.

**Afternoon:**Head to Darwin’s Waterfront Precinct for a seafood lunch at an ocean-view restaurant. After walking around the waterfront parks, head to the beach to cool off with a swim in a lagoon—one of the few safe places to swim in the city.  

**Night:**Admire the city from the water during a cruise around Darwin Harbour. Watch the sunset as you sail past Stokes Hill Wharf, the Esplanade, and Fannie Bay, then enjoy a buffet dinner on-board as you enjoy the illuminated skyline. 

Day 2: Wildlife and WWII sites

**Morning:**Spend the morning discovering some of Top End’s wildlife. An Adelaide River cruise reveals saltwater crocodiles, while Crocodylus Park and Territory Wildlife Park exhibit a range of Aussie animals; most tours include convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. 

**Afternoon:**If you’re a history buff, devore the afternoon to Darwin’s fascinating World War II sites. Tours typically include a visit to the  Darwin Military Museum, Darwin War Memorial, and East Point Military Precinct, and a cruise around the naval base of Darwin Harbour.

**Night:**On your last night, tick off the popular Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, held twice a week throughout the summer months. After watching the sunset over the beach, browse market stalls selling street food, shop for arts and handicrafts, and enjoy live entertainment late into the evening.