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Best Darwin accommodation to book for 2021

We break down the best Darwin hotels for your next trip to the top end, and share deals and coupons to help you save on your stay.

Stephanie Yip
Stephanie Yip

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A hotel in Darwin is the perfect launchpad for day trips out to some of the Top End's most picturesque spots in Litchfield and Kakadu national parks, at just a 90-minute drive to both locations.

For breaks between tours or spending time before a flight, the territory's capital is a destination in itself with eclectic markets and year-round balmy weather. Accommodation in Darwin offers a host of amenities, like pools, spas, restaurants and casinos. Whether you're looking for basic accommodation or amenities galore, Darwin has something suited to any traveller, no matter if you're a backpacker or a boss.

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Where are the best places to stay in Darwin?

Best cheap accommodation in Darwin

Cheap-but-good accommodation is manageable in a city as isolated as Darwin, where the cost of living is typically higher than other major cities in Australia like Sydney or Melbourne.

After reading hotel reviews and checking a few dates throughout the year, as of the time of publishing, we were able to find rooms at well-reviewed hotels for below $100 per night.

Our top picks for cheap accommodation in Darwin: Leprechaun Resort, H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel, Argus Hotel Darwin

Best Darwin apartment accommodation

Extra costs like going out for meals quickly add up in cities like Darwin, especially between flights to the Top End and day tours. If you're looking for a place to stay where you can self cater, or are just looking for somewhere with a bit of extra space, apartment accommodation can solve for what traditional hotel rooms can't.

We've recommended well-reviewed properties that come complete with self-catering facilities (we're talking kitchens you can cook in). These Darwin apartments all feature refrigerators, stovetops and microwaves in the unit.

Our top picks for apartment accommodation in Darwin: Argus Apartments Darwin, Quest Parap, RNR Serviced Apartments Darwin

Best beachfront hotels in Darwin

Darwin only has a couple of hotels by the beach, including Mindil Beach Casino Resort and Cullen Bay Resorts by Vivo.

The city's beaches aren't ideal for year-round swimming and there are no stinger nets, but dreamy resort pools and the Darwin Wavepool at the waterfront more than make up for it if you're itching to get into the water.

Best luxury accommodation in Darwin

Air conditioning, picturesque pools and spa baths are just some of the luxuries you won't take for granted after a day out and about in the Darwin heat.

Our top picks for luxury accommodation in Darwin: Hilton Darwin, Saltwater Suites, Darwin Waterfront Luxury Suites

Map of Darwin hotels

Alternate Darwin accommodation options

If you're heading to Darwin to make the most of the natural wonders of the Top End, there are a host of options outside the city centre that may be the best choice for your trip.

If national parks are on your itinerary, Litchfield Tourist Park offers hotel-style rooms and camping options, and Cooinda Lodge Kakadu has glamping and indoor accommodation options.

Holiday homes are also widely available in Darwin, with both Airbnb and Stayz operating in the city.

Frequently asked questions about Darwin accommodation

Where should I stay in Darwin?

  • CBD. Easy access to restaurants and where most day tours to the national parks and further afield will offer a pick-up service from.
  • Cullen Bay. Waterside accommodation that's still close to the CBD and where ferries to the Tiwi Islands will depart from.
  • Mindil Beach. Close to the botanic gardens and offers a casino. However, dining options are more limited unless you walk or drive into the CBD.

How far is Darwin from Kakadu and Litchfield?

It's about a 90-minute drive from Darwin CBD to either of the national parks. If you're booked on a day tour, most will pick you up from your accommodation in the city.

If you're doing a self-drive tour or are hoping to spend more than one day in either park, you may want to consider booking closer accommodation or staying right inside the park at a campground.

Is there Darwin accommodation available near the airport?

Yes, Darwin has two airport hotels, the Novotel Darwin Airport and Mercure Darwin Airport Resort.

Darwin CBD is only a 15-minute drive to the airport, where you will have more accommodation options, including budget stays and backpackers.

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