Welcome to a tropical metropolis with crocodile sunsets.

The 'capital' of northern Australia is closer to Jakarta than it is to Sydney, and closer to Singapore than it is to Melbourne, so it should come as no surprise that it looks outward to Asia as much as it looks inland to the rest of Australia.

This proximity and familiarity with Australia's northern neighbours is reflected in the town's relaxed, cosmopolitan, tropical atmosphere. In a country that prides itself on its ethnic diversity, Darwin may be the most multicultural city of all.

Travel Warning: Carry-on Baggage Requirements

All passengers flying to and from Australia on international flights will only be permitted to carry small quantities of liquids, gels or aerosols in their cabin or carry-on luggage. Small containers of 100 mls (3.5 fl oz) are permitted and must be sealed in a transparent plastic bag. Details of the new security measures can be found at the Department of Transport website.

Domestic travel is not affected by these regulations.

severity: Mid-level alert

Fast Facts

Population

103,500

Currency

Name: Australian Dollar
Code: AUD
Symbol: A$

Electrical Plugs

Australian-style plug with two flat angled blades and one vertical grounding blade
220-240V 50Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: English

Time Zones

GMT/UTC +9.5 

Country Dialing Code

+61

Weights & Measures

Metric

Australia - Free Guidebook Chapter

Australia -  Pick & Mix Chapters

Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our Australia guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the Australia download page.

Related Travel Stories

  1. Australia's Tiwi Islands

    Australia's Tiwi Islands

    podcast by Fleur Bainger, December 2007

    Meet an elder who paints his tribal songs, find out how to behave on the Islands and track down authentic art. Read the full article ›

    Tags: Australia • Art, Architecture & Design • Darwin

Read more Related Travel Stories ›

Traveller Tips & Discussion

Thorn Tree Forum

  • darwin
    Post by: bazzamelb, 22 Sep 07
    6 Replies
    Last reply: 352 days ago
  • darwin
    Post by: bazzamelb, 23 Apr 07
    4 Replies
    Last reply: 504 days ago
  • darwin
    Post by: bazzamelb, 17 Jan 08
    8 Replies
    Last reply: 236 days ago
  • Darwin
    Post by: Harry_Mudd, 07 May 08
    13 Replies
    Last reply: 124 days ago
  • Darwin
    Post by: Oldfields, 20 Mar 07
    2 Replies
    Last reply: 538 days ago

View more Thorn Tree threads ›

BLUELISTS blu,list to recommend a travel experience

View more Bluelists ›

Jump to Navigation

Shop Online

Advertisement

Book Your Trip

Travel insurance. Be covered by our recommended partner.

Compare & book flights from 100's of domestic & international airlines.

Hotels & Hostels

Booking hotels is simple with Lonely Planet. See our reviewed and recommended hotels in one place and book online. Browse hotels ›

Lonely Planet Newsletters

Updates, offers and inspiration - straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now ›

Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

Lonely Planet