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Darwin to Adelaide from $140: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Darwin, Australia
to
Adelaide, Australia

How to Get from Darwin to Adelaide: 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.

$140 - PlaneBest price
2636 kmDistance
4h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Darwin to Adelaide 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
$143-520
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$140-550
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2636 km
Duration: 4h

See more options

Company
Greyhound Australia
Bus
Average Duration
42h 
Estimated price
$265-650
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
29h  4m
Estimated price
$380-600
Company
Journey Beyond - The Ghan
Train
Average Duration
48h  2m
Estimated price
$623-6527
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Darwin to Adelaide

The journey from Darwin to Adelaide takes you from the tropical landscapes of the Northern Territory to the urban charm and vineyards of South Australia, showcasing two distinctly different lifestyles and environments.

Best Neighbourhoods in Adelaide

Adelaide boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

North Adelaide
• Tree-lined streets with historic architecture.
• Home to trendy cafes and boutique shops.
Glenelg
• Beautiful beaches and a lively esplanade.
• Great dining and entertainment options.
Adelaide CBD
• Cultural hotspots like museums and galleries.
• Convenient public transport and shopping districts.

Best Times To Visit Adelaide's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience at Adelaide's top spots.

Adelaide Zoo
Early mornings during weekdays allow quieter animal encounters and fewer crowds.
Art Gallery of South Australia
Visit on Friday afternoons for a less crowded experience and inspired ambiance.
Central Market
Arrive on weekday mornings for fresh produce and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Adelaide Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Adelaide enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a delightful destination year-round. Understanding the seasonal shifts helps you plan your visit around the best weather, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Culinary Delights in Adelaide

A visit to Adelaide isn’t complete without trying the salt and pepper squid at Orchard Bar & Grill, where fresh, local ingredients meet sophisticated culinary techniques. This contrasts with Darwin's casual seafood offerings, providing you with a refined dining atmosphere and a flavor profile that celebrates the region's rich agricultural produce.

Darwin - Adelaide operators

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

Plane
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Darwin Airport to Adelaide Airport

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
AU$120-650
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Darwin Airport to Adelaide Airport

Average Duration
3h 41m
Estimated price
AU$240-700
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Darwin Airport to Adelaide Airport

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
AU$160-950
Bus
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Darwin to Alice Springs

Average Duration
21h 5m
Estimated price
AU$130-320

Bus from Alice Springs to Adelaide

Average Duration
19h 55m
Estimated price
AU$130-330
Train Show train routes
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Darwin to Adelaide Parklands

Average Duration
48h 2m
Estimated price
AU$600-6500

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

Traveling between Darwin and Adelaide 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 Aussie road trip from Darwin to Adelaide covering a distance of 3046.5 km. 💸 Budget-conscious travelers can rejoice in the flexible pricing options to make this adventure a reality, with car trip costs typically ranging from $380 to $600. 🏞️ Witness the beauty of the Australian landscapes unfold before your eyes during the 29-hour drive from Darwin to Adelaide.
Average price
$380 - $600
🚆 Embark on an unforgettable train journey from Darwin to Adelaide spanning over 3,000 kilometers, taking approximately 47 hours to reach your destination. 💰 Experience a range of price options for the train ride between Darwin and Adelaide, with fares starting from $623 and going up to $6527 for various classes and services aboard the train.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard the Ghan, the primary train service from Darwin to Adelaide, you can enjoy fine dining experiences with meals prepared by onboard chefs. However, it’s crucial to book your meals in advance, especially for popular times. The train also has a 'Gold and Platinum Service' that includes all meals, while 'Red Service' provides a more budget-friendly option with access to the cafe car for snacks and drinks.
• The Ghan offers various seating options, including Gold Service (private cabins with en-suite facilities) and Platinum Service (more luxurious, larger cabins with premium amenities). For a budget-friendly experience, Red Service seats are spacious and comfortable with access to shared facilities. Choosing Gold or Platinum Service ensures a more exclusive and comfortable journey.
• Operators for this route include 'Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions' which operates 'The Ghan'. You can visit their website at ">">journeybeyond.com.au for more details on schedules and services. For local transport and dining options after arriving in Adelaide, check ">">adelaidemetro.com.au for schedules and maps.
• Upon arriving at Adelaide Parklands Terminal, you can conveniently leave your luggage at the luggage storage service available at the station. Additionally, there are restrooms and showers located within the terminal. To navigate to the city center, take the Adam's Shuttle bus service, which runs frequently and takes approximately 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can catch a tram from the nearby stop (Outer Harbor Line) that connects directly to the city center.
🛫 Flying from Darwin to Adelaide offers a convenient option to cover the distance in just 3 hours and 40 minutes, with direct flights available from carriers like Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Qantas. ✈️ The journey from Darwin Airport to Adelaide Airport is typically smooth and comfortable, lasting around 4 hours. The airlines provide various options, and ticket prices range from $143 to $520, accommodating different budgets and preferences.
Departure Point
Darwin Airport
Arrival Point
Adelaide Airport
🌿 The route passes through Alice Springs before reaching Adelaide, showcasing the diverse landscapes of the Australian outback during the approximately 42-hour trip. 💸 Ticket prices for this bus adventure from Darwin to Adelaide range between $265 to $650, offering budget-friendly and more luxurious travel options for passengers.
Departure Point
Darwin station
Arrival Point
Adelaide station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Darwin to Adelaide.

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The distance between Darwin and Adelaide is approximately 2632.9 km by air and 3046.3 km by road. The typical travel time by plane is 4 hours and 25 minutes, while it takes around 29 hours and 4 minutes to drive. If you prefer bus travel, it will take approximately 42 hours and 35 minutes to reach Adelaide from Darwin.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Darwin to Adelaide is by flying. It takes approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes to reach Adelaide from Darwin by plane, and the cost ranges from $140 to $470. This option not only saves time but also offers competitive prices compared to other modes of transportation such as driving, which takes around 29 hours and 4 minutes by car.
The prices of a train journey from Darwin to Adelaide vary between $572 to $6526, depending on the class and type of ticket chosen. On the other hand, the prices of a bus trip from Adelaide to Darwin range from $246 to $873, again depending on factors such as the type of bus and the time of travel.
To travel from Darwin to Adelaide without using public transportation, you can opt to drive your own car or rent a car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 3046.5 km, and it takes around 29 hours and 4 minutes to complete the journey. Prices for renting a car vary but typically range from $380 to $600.
To travel from Darwin to Adelaide without a car, the best options are by bus or by plane. The bus journey takes approximately 42 hours and 35 minutes and costs between $240 and $900. Alternatively, you can fly, which takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $140 and $470. There is also a train option available, but it takes 2 days and 2 hours and costs between $550 and $7,000.
There is no direct link between Darwin and Adelaide by bus. However, there are bus services available that involve a transfer in Alice Springs, with a total travel time of approximately 42 hours and 35 minutes. If you prefer a faster mode of transportation, there is a direct flight from Darwin to Adelaide which takes approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes.
The flight between Darwin and Adelaide typically takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $141 and $465, depending on factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and any additional services or amenities.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Adelaide. With over 755 hotels available, you will have a wide range of choices to suit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Adelaide start at $57 per night, making it possible to find affordable options for your stay.