Australia's tropical capital city dines on Asian-influenced food, enjoys an outdoor lifestyle, and the beauty of some of the world's most important natural places on its doorstep. No wonder Lonely Planet listed Darwin as one of the world's top ten cities to visit in 2012.
Magical markets
Local markets are a big part of Darwin life. Head to the renowned Mindil Beach Sunset Markets to sample international cuisine from 60 food stalls. Choose from Sri Lankan, Turkish, Greek, Cambodian, and Japanese and eat on the beach as the sun sinks into the ocean.
After dinner, shop for a gift or souvenir at art and craft stalls, treat yourself to a locally-made ice-cream or mango smoothie and watch the as fire twirlers, musicians and street performers entertain the crowds.
On weekend mornings join the locals meet for coffee, to buy exotic produce and local wares at community markets in suburbs Nightcliff and Parap.
Adventure territory
Do something new. Step out of your comfort zone. Have an adventure in Darwin.
Ride the swell at the wave pool, eyeball a croc in the 'cage of death', or take your seat for a thrilling jet boat ride. Grab some bait and take the time to throw out a line from a jetty or wharf, or join a fishing charter – you could find yourself hauling in one of the big barras that are at home in Darwin's tropical waters.
The story of Darwin
This city's rich history belies its youthful population. Spend an afternoon at one of the city's museums and memorials and learn about the 1870s gold rush, the Japanese bombing raids in WWII and the decimation of the town by Cyclone Tracy in 1974
When it's time to relax
Head out into the balmy evenings to catch a movie under the stars at the Deckchair Cinema. Board a luxury yacht or historic pearl lugger for a dinner cruise around Darwin's magnificent harbour at sunset or catch a band at a retro music lounge. Life is lived out of doors in Darwin, thanks to the predictable 32-degree year-round temperatures.
