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Adelaide to Darwin from $143: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Adelaide, Australia
to
Darwin, Australia

How to Get from Adelaide to Darwin: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$143 - PlaneBest price
1636 milesDistance
4h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Adelaide to Darwin with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$143-521
Recommended
route map
Distance: 1636 miles
Duration: 4h

See more options

Company
Greyhound Australia
Bus
Average Duration
43h  5m
Estimated price
$267-644
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
29h  3m
Estimated price
$380-600
Company
Journey Beyond - The Ghan
Train
Average Duration
54h  6m
Estimated price
$629-6319
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Adelaide to Darwin

The journey from Adelaide to Darwin offers a striking contrast, as you transition from vibrant city life and wine country to the tropical climate and stunning national parks of Australia's northern region.

Best Neighbourhoods in Darwin

Darwin's neighborhoods each offer distinctive flavors and attractions for visitors.

City Centre
• Hub for dining, shopping, and nightlife.
• Easy access to public transport and attractions.
Fannie Bay
• Scenic waterfront views and beach access.
• Home to the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens.
Nightcliff
• Known for its picturesque coastal paths.
• Vibrant local markets and community feel.

Best Times To Visit Darwin's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Darwin.

Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
Visit on Thursday evenings for fewer crowds and a relaxed vibe.
Litchfield National Park
Early mornings offer cooler temperatures and empty trails, ideal for exploration.
Darwin Waterfront Precinct
Weekdays provide a quieter atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls.

Darwin Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Darwin experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making it essential to choose your travel dates wisely. The dry season from May to October offers pleasant temperatures and clear skies, enhancing your outdoor adventure experience.

Dining in Darwin: A Unique Experience

At the iconic Deckchair Cinema, enjoy a classic barramundi fish and chips, showcasing fresh local seafood in a relaxed outdoor setting that contrasts with Adelaide's upscale dining scene. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with seasonal flavors and a tropical breeze, creates a memorable culinary experience that captures Darwin's laid-back charm.

Adelaide - Darwin operators

Explore transport companies operating between Adelaide and Darwin, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to Darwin Airport (DRW)

Average Duration
3h 42m
Estimated price
AU$120-650

Plane from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to Darwin Airport (DRW) via Cairns

Average Duration
6h 25m
Estimated price
AU$120-650

Plane from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to Darwin Airport (DRW) via Melbourne

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
AU$120-650
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to Darwin Airport (DRW)

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
AU$160-950

Plane from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to Darwin Airport (DRW) via Melbourne

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
AU$160-950
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to Darwin Airport (DRW)

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
AU$240-700

Plane from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to Darwin Airport (DRW) via Alice Springs

Average Duration
5h 32m
Estimated price
AU$300-750

Plane from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to Darwin Airport (DRW) via Cairns

Average Duration
6h 25m
Estimated price
AU$120-650

Plane from Adelaide Airport (ADL) to Darwin Airport (DRW) via Melbourne

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
AU$300-750
Bus
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Adelaide to Alice Springs

Average Duration
20h 30m
Estimated price
AU$130-330

Bus from Alice Springs to Darwin

Average Duration
21h 35m
Estimated price
AU$130-320
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Adelaide Parklands to Darwin

Average Duration
48h
Estimated price
AU$600-6500

Adelaide to Darwin: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Adelaide and Darwin offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Adelaide to Darwin City, covering a distance of 3046.5 km. 💰 Prices for the journey by car range from $380 to $600, offering flexibility for different budgets. 🌞 Set off on a 29-hour drive filled with adventure, stunning sights, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Average price
$380 - $600
🚆 All aboard for a spectacular train journey from Adelaide to Darwin! With a travel time of around 54 hours, this cross-country adventure offers breathtaking views and comfortable travel. 💸 Depending on your preferences and budget, ticket prices for the train between Adelaide and Darwin typically range from $629 to $6319.
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Adelaide to Darwin, the main operator is The Ghan. The Ghan offers a premium catering service featuring meals prepared using fresh, local ingredients. Dining options vary depending on the class of service; for example, in Gold Service, you can enjoy meals served in the dining car, while in the Platinum Service, you may have meals brought directly to your cabin.
• The Ghan provides three main seating options: Gold Service (with both twin and single cabin options), Platinum Service (offering spacious cabins with en suites), and a lounge car for communal relaxation. Gold Service is generally more affordable and a great choice for budget-conscious travelers, while Platinum Service offers the highest level of comfort and exclusivity.
• Upon arrival at Darwin Railway Station, be sure to check for luggage storage options, as the station does offer facilities for leaving your luggage for a few hours. This allows you to explore the city without dragging your bags around. Restrooms are readily available, but be mindful that showers are not typically offered at the station.
🛫 Flying from Adelaide to Darwin is a convenient and relatively short journey with the quickest direct flight lasting only 3 hours and 40 minutes. 💰 Depending on the time of booking and availability, the prices for a flight from Adelaide to Darwin can range from $143 to $521, offering budget-friendly options for travelers exploring the Northern Territory.
Departure Point
Adelaide Airport
Arrival Point
Darwin Airport
🚌 The bus journey from Adelaide to Darwin is an epic adventure that involves a transfer in Alice Springs. The total travel time can take approximately 43 hours and 5 minutes. 🎟️ Tickets for the bus ride from Adelaide to Darwin can range from $267 to $644, depending on the chosen class and amenities.
Departure Point
Adelaide station
Arrival Point
Darwin station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Adelaide to Darwin.

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The distance between Adelaide and Darwin is approximately 2632.9 km. By train, it takes around to reach Darwin from Adelaide. By plane, the travel time is 5 hours and 18 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it takes approximately 29 hours and 3 minutes by car, or 43 hours and 35 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Adelaide to Darwin would be by plane. It takes approximately 5 hours and 18 minutes to reach Darwin from Adelaide by air. The cost of a flight ticket ranges from $140 to $470, depending on the airline and availability.
The prices for traveling from Adelaide to Darwin can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. The train ticket prices range from $612 to $6143, while the bus ticket prices range from $248 to $879.
To get from Adelaide to Darwin without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 3046.5 km and it takes around 29 hours and 3 minutes. Prices for renting a car and driving from Adelaide to Darwin can range from $380 to $600, depending on the rental company and type of vehicle chosen.
To travel from Adelaide to Darwin without a car, the best options are to take a bus or fly. The bus journey takes approximately 43 hours and 35 minutes and costs between $240 and $900. Flying is much quicker, taking about 5 hours and 18 minutes, and costs $140 to $470. There is also a train option, but it is more expensive and takes around 2 days and 6 hours.
No, there is no direct link between Adelaide and Darwin. However, there are bus services that operate from Adelaide to Darwin with a transfer in Alice Springs, which takes approximately 43 hours and 35 minutes. The bus services are operated by Greyhound Australia and depart from Adelaide station, arriving at Darwin station.
The flight between Adelaide and Darwin typically takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability, with prices ranging from $141 to $465.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Darwin. With over 363 hotels available in Darwin City, travelers have a wide range of choices. Prices for hotels start at $50, offering affordable options for budget-conscious tourists.