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Darwin, Northern Territory to Adelaide, South Australia 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

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$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

Traveling From Darwin to Adelaide

The journey from Darwin to Adelaide offers a fascinating contrast between Darwin’s tropical vibe and laid-back lifestyle, and Adelaide's vibrant arts scene and elegant architecture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Adelaide

Adelaide boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct charm and attractions.

North Adelaide
• Features historic architecture and leafy streets.
• Home to numerous boutique shops and cafes.
Glenelg
• Popular beach destination with a lively atmosphere.
• Offers stunning sunsets and waterfront dining.
Adelaide CBD
• Hub for cultural events and festivals year-round.
• Packed with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Best Times To Visit Adelaide's Attractions

Planning your visit to Adelaide’s attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Adelaide Zoo
Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Central Market
Weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere, perfect for leisurely shopping.
Glenelg Beach
Late afternoon is ideal for enjoying the sunset without the crowds.

Adelaide Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Adelaide enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a versatile travel destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when moderate temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation

A visit to Adelaide isn’t complete without trying the iconic Frog Cakes from the iconic bakery, Baked in the Barossa, where the delicate sponge cake and sweet cream provide a refreshing contrast to Darwin's tropical flavors. The charming atmosphere of local cafes and the emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients present a dining experience that highlights Adelaide’s culinary sophistication.

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
120-650
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Darwin Airport to Adelaide Airport

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

Plane from Darwin Airport to Adelaide Airport

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

Bus from Darwin to Alice Springs

Average Duration
21h 5m
Estimated price
130-320

Bus from Alice Springs to Adelaide

Average Duration
19h 55m
Estimated price
130-330
Train
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Darwin to Adelaide Parklands

Average Duration
48h 2m
Estimated price
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, which operates between Darwin and Adelaide, you'll find catering services that provide meals made with fresh, local ingredients. Meals are served in a charming dining car where you can enjoy your food while taking in the stunning Australian outback views. Be sure to inform dining staff of any dietary restrictions when you board.
• The Ghan offers several seating options including Gold Service which features spacious cabin accommodations with en-suite bathrooms, and Platinum Service that offers even more luxury with larger cabins and a premium dining experience. There are also Economy Class options available if you're looking for a more budget-friendly choice.
• For your trip, the primary operator is Journey Beyond. You can find more information on their website at journeybeyond.com. Additionally, be sure to check services from Great Southern Rail for any potential alternate offerings. Useful links for dining near the station and local transport schedules can be found at adelaidemetro.com.au.
• Upon arriving at Adelaide Railway Station, you can leave your luggage at the station's luggage storage facility located just past the ticket office. The station also has restrooms available, but note that showers are not provided on-site. To quickly get to the city center, hop on the tram from the nearby tram stop at the station, specifically the City Loop tram service, which heads directly into the heart of Adelaide.
🛫 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 1636 miles by air. By plane, the typical travel time is 4 hours and 25 minutes. Alternatively, by car, the travel time is approximately 29 hours and 4 minutes, while by bus, it takes around 42 hours and 35 minutes to reach Adelaide from Darwin. Additionally, there is a train option, but the travel time was not specified.
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 and costs between $140 and $470. This is both the fastest and cheapest way to travel between the two cities. Other modes of transportation such as driving, taking a train or a bus, take significantly longer and may not be as cost-effective.
The prices for traveling from Darwin to Adelaide vary depending on the mode of transportation. For a train journey, prices range from $572 to $6,526. On the other hand, bus prices vary from $246 to $873. These prices may depend on factors such as the type of ticket, class of service, and availability. It is recommended to check with specific travel providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Darwin to Adelaide without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1893 miles, which takes about 29 hours and 4 minutes. Depending on factors such as fuel consumption and tolls, the cost of driving from Darwin to Adelaide can range from $380 to $600.
To travel from Darwin to Adelaide without a car, there are a couple of options available. The fastest and most convenient way is to take a flight, which takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $140 and $470. Another option is to take a bus, which takes approximately 42 hours and 35 minutes and ranges in cost from $240 to $900. If you have more time and prefer a scenic route, you can also take a train, which takes around 2 days and 2 hours and costs between $550 and $7,000.
No, there is no direct link between Darwin and Adelaide. However, there are bus services operated by Greyhound Australia that depart from Darwin and arrive in Adelaide via Alice Springs. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 42 hours and 35 minutes. It is important to note that this is the only direct public transportation option available between the two cities.
The flight duration between Darwin and Adelaide is typically 3 hours and 40 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of a flight ticket can vary, ranging from $141 to $465, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and class of travel. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to get the best deal for your travel.
There are 755+ hotels available in Adelaide offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for accommodation in Adelaide start at $57 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, you will be able to find a suitable place to stay in the city. It is advisable to book in advance and compare prices to ensure the best deal for your stay in Adelaide.