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Melbourne, Victoria to Darwin, Northern Territory from undefined180: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Melbourne, Australia
to
Darwin, Australia

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

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$180 - PlaneBest price
3165.76 kmDistance
5h 49m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Melbourne 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
5h  49m
Estimated price
181-536
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  49m
Estimated price
180-550
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 3165.76 km
Duration: 5h 49m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
50h  6m
Estimated price
299-705
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
37h  7m
Estimated price
470-700
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
54h  18m
Estimated price
665-6586
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
54h  18m
Estimated price
694-6727
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Traveling From Melbourne to Darwin

The journey from Melbourne to Darwin showcases a dramatic shift from the bustling cityscapes and cultural vibrancy of Melbourne to the laid-back tropical lifestyle and stunning natural beauty of Darwin.

Best Neighbourhoods in Darwin

Darwin's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences that reflect its tropical charm.

Cullen Bay
• Scenic waterfront views and marina activities
• Dining options with stunning sunset views
Mindil Beach
• Famous for its vibrant night markets
• Gorgeous beach with spectacular sunset views
Darwin City
• Central hub for shopping and dining
• Close to cultural attractions and museums

Best Times To Visit Darwin's Attractions

Visiting Darwin is all about timing for the best experience at top attractions.

Kakadu National Park
Visit during the dry season for clearer paths and fewer insects.
Litchfield National Park
Weekdays are ideal to avoid weekend crowds at popular swimming holes.
Mindil Beach Markets
Arrive early to snag a good spot and enjoy quieter browsing.

Darwin Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Darwin experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making it vital to plan your visit accordingly. The dry season, from May to October, offers pleasant temperatures and low humidity, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Darwin

Try the iconic barramundi at the Beachfront Hotel, where the fresh, local catch is served with a side of stunning ocean views. This dining experience contrasts with Melbourne's vibrant café culture, offering a more relaxed atmosphere that highlights the unique flavors of the Top End.

Melbourne - Darwin operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Darwin Airport

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
150-800

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Darwin Airport via Cairns

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
150-800

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Darwin Airport via Sydney

Average Duration
7h 25m
Estimated price
150-800
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Darwin Airport

Average Duration
4h 17m
Estimated price
210-800

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Darwin Airport via Sydney

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
270-800

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Darwin Airport via Cairns

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
150-800
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Melbourne Airport to Darwin Airport

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
200-600
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Southern Cross Coach Terminal to Adelaide

Average Duration
10h 15m
Estimated price
35-60
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Adelaide to Alice Springs

Average Duration
20h 30m
Estimated price
130-330

Bus from Alice Springs to Darwin

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

Train from Southern Cross to Adelaide

Average Duration
10h 30m
Estimated price
70-200
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Adelaide Parklands to Darwin

Average Duration
48h 6m
Estimated price
600-6500

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

Traveling between Melbourne 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 Melbourne to Darwin, covering a distance of 2346 miles through the heart of Australia's diverse landscapes. Enjoy the freedom of the open road and witness the changing scenery as you make your way north. 💰 Budget-friendly travelers can rejoice with prices ranging from $470 to $700 for the journey by car, offering a cost-effective option to explore the Australian outback at your own pace. Pack a cooler, load up on snacks, and hit the road for a memorable adventure filled with exciting pit stops along the way. 🏞️ Traverse through rugged terrain, quaint towns, and stunning natural wonders on your 37-hour drive from Melbourne to Darwin City. From the lush greenery of Victoria to the red deserts of the Northern Territory, this road trip promises a kaleidoscope of experiences that will surely leave you in awe.
Average price
$470 - $700
🚆 Embark on an epic journey from Melbourne to Darwin by train, spanning approximately 70 hours across diverse Australian landscapes. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride from Melbourne to Darwin range from $694 for economy class to $6727 for premium sleeper cabins, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets.
🛫 Traveling from Melbourne to Darwin by plane offers a quick and convenient option with a direct flight taking approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes. 💸 The prices for a flight between Melbourne and Darwin can vary, with tickets typically ranging from $181 to $536, making it relatively affordable to explore the Northern Territory from Victoria.
Departure Point
Melbourne Airport
Arrival Point
Darwin Airport
🚌 The journey from Melbourne to Darwin by bus is an adventurous route that includes transfers in Adelaide and Alice Springs. It takes approximately 2 days and 6 hours to reach Darwin City from Melbourne. 💰 Prices for the bus between Darwin and Melbourne can range from $299 to $705, providing budget-friendly options for those looking to explore the scenic route by road.
Departure Point
Southern Cross Coach Terminal station
Arrival Point
Darwin station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Melbourne to Darwin.

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The distance between Melbourne and Darwin is approximately 1968 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes about to reach Darwin from Melbourne. Taking a combination of bus and train can take slightly longer. By plane, the travel time is approximately 5 hours and 49 minutes. If driving, it takes about 37 hours and 7 minutes to travel from Darwin to Melbourne.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Melbourne to Darwin is by flying. It takes approximately 5 hours and 49 minutes to reach Darwin by plane, and the cost ranges from $200 to $470. Flying is the fastest mode of transportation, allowing you to quickly and efficiently reach your destination without spending too much money.
The prices for traveling from Melbourne to Darwin vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. The train prices range from $641 to $6720, while the bus prices range from $249 to $921. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to ensure the best deal and availability.
To travel from Melbourne to Darwin without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 2346 miles. The journey by car takes approximately 37 hours and 7 minutes. The cost of this road trip can range from $470 to $700, which includes fuel and any necessary accommodations along the way.
To travel from Melbourne to Darwin without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 2 days and 8 hours and costs between $240-$950. Another option is to fly, which takes around 5 hours and 49 minutes and costs between $200-$470. If you prefer train travel, there is a train option available, which takes approximately 2 days and 18 hours and costs between $600-$7,000.
There is no direct link between Melbourne and Darwin by bus. However, there are bus services that depart from Melbourne and arrive in Darwin, with transfers in Adelaide and Alice Springs. The journey by bus takes approximately 2 days and 8 hours. Other modes of transportation such as train and plane offer quicker travel times between the two cities.
The flight between Melbourne and Darwin typically takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes. The duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and the specific flight route. The cost of a flight between Darwin and Melbourne can range from $200 to $464, and this can also vary based on factors such as the airline, the time of year, and how far in advance the ticket is booked.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Darwin. With over 363 hotels available in Darwin City, travelers have a wide variety of choices. Prices for hotels start at $50, providing options for all budgets. It is recommended to research and compare different hotels to find the best fit for your preferences and needs.

Trips from Melbourne