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Where to stay in Darwin for APAX 2025

Getting Around

Getting to Darwin and navigating the city is easy, with a variety of transportation options available for APAX delegates.

Whether you prefer to take public transport, ride-share, or explore on two wheels, here’s everything you need to know about getting around Darwin during your stay.

Getting to and from Darwin by air

Darwin International Airport (DRW) is the main gateway to the city, located just 13km from the city centre. The airport serves both domestic and international flights, with direct connections to major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, as well as regional flights to nearby destinations.

Transfer options from Darwin International Airport to the CBD include:

  • Taxi: A taxi from Darwin International Airport to the city takes around 15-20 minutes.
  • Rideshare: Uber and other ride-share services are available at the airport.
  • Shuttle Bus: Several hotels offer shuttle services from the airport to the city; check with your accommodation for details.
  • Public Bus: The public bus stop is located on Henry Wrigley Drive, adjacent to the Mercure Darwin Airport Resort. This is approximately a 600m, 8-minute walk from the terminal. For information on routes and timetables please view the Northern Territory Government’s Catch a Bus to Darwin Airport page.

Public Transport

Darwin’s compact city centre makes it easy to explore, whether on foot, by bike, or using public transport. Here are the best ways to get around during your visit:

Bus

Public buses are an affordable and convenient way to travel around Darwin City and the surrounding areas. The Darwin public bus network operates throughout the day, with routes connecting key points in the city, including popular attractions, shopping districts, and local hotels.

Darwin Bus Service: The main bus service provider for Darwin is Darwin Bus. Timetables and route maps can be found on their official website.

Ticketing: Tickets can be purchased on the bus (cash only) or at a bus interchange using either cash or EFTPOS. Day passes are also available for unlimited travel. If paying with cash, please try to have the exact fare or as close to it as possible, as drivers may not be able to provide change for large notes. Paper tickets are issued for both single-trip and daily fares.

Ride-share Services

Ride-share services like Uber and Ola are widely available in Darwin, providing a convenient and flexible way to get around. Simply download the app, and you’ll be matched with a nearby driver.

Taxis

Taxis are also readily available in Darwin, and the city’s central location ensures that most destinations are just a short ride away.

Darwin Radio Taxis: 131 008 or (08) 8985 0700

Blue Taxi Company: (08) 8980 3777 or 13 82 94

Taxis can be hailed at designated taxi ranks, booked via phone, or booked through the respective apps for convenience.

Driving in Darwin

If you prefer to drive, car rental services are available at Darwin International Airport and throughout the city. Parking is generally easy to find in Darwin, making it a convenient option for getting around.

Avis
Phone: +61 8 8935 2277

Hertz
Phone: +61 8 8932 2200

Europcar
Phone: +61 8 8941 4044

Cycling & Scooting

Darwin’s compact size makes cycling and scooting ideal for exploring the city. With several bike paths throughout, getting around is easy, and many attractions are just a short ride away, offering a fun and eco-friendly way to see the sights.

Bike Hire: There are several bike rental shops in Darwin where you can rent a bike for the day or longer. Popular rental spots in the city include Cycle Zone Darwin and The Scooter Shop, for scooter and mountain bike hire.

Cycling Paths: Darwin boasts a range of bike-friendly paths and lanes, including the Bicentennial Park bike path along the waterfront.

E-scooters and e-bikes are also popular in the city, offering an easy mode of transport. For more details on where to find e-bikes and e-scooters, and where they can and cannot be ridden, visit https://www.darwin.nt.gov.au/community/about-darwin/getting-around/e-scooters-e-bikes or download the Beam E-scooter App on Apple Store and Google Play

Local Tips

For a comprehensive guide to the city, head to the Northern Territory and Australia.com websites. They offer a wealth of information on top attractions, dining spots, and unique events happening during your stay.

Australia.com – Guide to Darwin

Northern Territory – Darwin and Surrounds

Must-Visit Places in the CBD

Larrakia Hosts Shop & Information Centre – Smith Street Mall

We Are Locals – A great resource for local insights: https://wearelocals.com.au/

Top End Visitor Information Centre – Offers Darwin Festival tickets and local information: https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/information/top-end-visitor-information-centre.

Aboriginal Bush Traders – A fantastic spot for unique gifts: https://aboriginalbushtraders.com/

For more cool spots and what’s happening around town, grab a free copy of Off the Leash, a street paper that lists local events and activities.

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognise the continuing connection of First Nations peoples to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to Elders past and present.