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Townsville, Queensland to Darwin, Northern Territory from AU$2491: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Townsville, Australia
to
Darwin, Australia

How to Get from Townsville 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.

$2491 - OtherBest price
1876 kmDistance
3h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Townsville 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
3h  8m
Estimated price
AU$249-736
Recommended
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
25h  4m
Estimated price
AU$2491-2492
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1876 km
Duration: 3h 8m

See more options

Company
Greyhound Australia, Journey Beyond - The Ghan
Bus
Train
Average Duration
97h  13m
Estimated price
AU$710-3586
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
97h  19m
Estimated price
AU$1028-12213
Company
Greyhound Australia, Journey Beyond - The Ghan
Bus
Train
Average Duration
149h  5m
Estimated price
AU$2490-2831
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
144h 
Estimated price
AU$2817-14129
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Traveling From Townsville to Darwin

The journey from Townsville to Darwin offers a striking contrast between the tropical charm of Townsville’s beaches and the expansive red earth and rugged beauty of Darwin’s landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Darwin

Darwin boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own unique experiences.

Darwin City
• Central hub with vibrant nightlife
• Close to shops and restaurants
Larrakeyah
• Stunning views of the waterfront
• Family-friendly parks and recreational areas
Mindil Beach
• Famous for its sunset markets
• Beautiful beach for relaxation and watersports

Best Times To Visit Darwin's Attractions

Timing your visit to Darwin's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Kakadu National Park
Visit during the dry season (May to October) for pleasant weather and fewer bugs.
Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
Arrive early on Thursdays and Sundays to explore stalls before peak crowds.
Crocosaurus Cove
Weekdays tend to be quieter, providing a more relaxed experience with the crocodiles.

Darwin Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Darwin enjoys a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season, making May to October the ideal time to visit for comfortable temperatures and low humidity. The weather significantly influences your travel experience, as the wet season brings heavy rains and storms, while the dry season offers sunny skies perfect for outdoor adventures.

Dining Recommendation in Darwin

One must-try dish in Darwin is the barramundi, often served with native ingredients like finger lime and bush tomato at popular spots like the Darwin Wharf Precinct. This dining experience contrasts with Townsville’s coastal seafood scene by offering a vibrant atmosphere and a fusion of flavors that highlight Northern Territory’s unique culinary heritage.

Townsville - Darwin operators

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

Plane
Website
flyairnorth.com

Plane from Townsville (TSV) to Darwin (DRW)

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
AU$7361-7362
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Townsville (TSV) to Darwin (DRW)

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
AU$7361-7362

Plane from Townsville (TSV) to Darwin (DRW)

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
AU$7361-7362
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/

Train from Townsville to Roma Street

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$7104-7105
Contact phone
131 500
Website
https://transportnsw.info

Train from Roma Street to Central Station

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
AU$35860-7104
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Sydney Central Station to Adelaide Parklands

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$7365-7366
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Adelaide Parklands to Darwin

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$358617-35864
Bus
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Townsville to Brisbane

Average Duration
23h
Estimated price
AU$7106-10284
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Townsville to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
23h 10m
Estimated price
AU$10289-10286

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

Traveling between Townsville 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 the tropical coastal town of Townsville to the vibrant city of Darwin spanning 1564 miles of diverse landscapes and charming towns along the way. ⛽️ Fuel up and hit the long open roads, enjoying the freedom of driving through the Australian outback, where the prices to reach Darwin from Townsville range from $310 to $460, offering budget-friendly options for every traveler. 🌅 As you journey for approximately 25 hours and 4 minutes, be prepared for awe-inspiring scenery, unique wildlife sightings, and the unforgettable experience of crossing the vast Northern Territory, making memories to last a lifetime.
Average price
$310 - $460
💰 Depending on your choice of class and fare type, train tickets between Townsville and Darwin range from $1028 to $12213, offering options for various budgets and travel preferences.
🛫 Flying from Townsville Airport to Darwin Airport is a convenient and time-efficient way to travel between these two cities. The quickest direct flight takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, allowing travelers to reach their destination efficiently. 💸 The prices for flights between Darwin and Townsville can vary, ranging from $249 to $736. Whether you are seeking a budget-friendly option or looking for added comforts, there are choices available to accommodate different travel needs and preferences.
Departure Point
Townsville Airport
Arrival Point
Darwin Airport

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Townsville to Darwin.

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The distance between Townsville and Darwin is approximately 1166 miles. The travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By plane, it takes about 3 hours and 8 minutes to reach Darwin from Townsville. By car, the journey takes around 25 hours and 4 minutes. Trains are also available, but the travel time is not specified. Additionally, taking a bus and then a train via Alice Springs is another option, but the duration is also not provided.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Townsville to Darwin is by flying. It takes approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes to reach Darwin from Townsville by plane, and the cost ranges from $220 to $650. Flying is not only the quickest option but also the cheapest, making it the ideal choice for travelers looking to save time and money.
The prices for train travel between Townsville and Darwin can vary greatly, ranging from $972 to $8238. It is important to note that the exact price will depend on factors such as the class of service, time of year, and availability. It is recommended to check with the specific train provider for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
To travel from Townsville to Darwin without using public transportation, you can opt to drive by car. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 1564 miles, and it takes about 25 hours and 4 minutes to complete the journey. The prices for car rentals vary, with options ranging from $310 to $460.
To travel from Townsville to Darwin without a car, you can take a bus and train via Alice Springs. This journey takes approximately 4 days and 15 hours and can cost between $600 and $2900. The route includes scenic views of the Australian outback and allows you to experience the vastness of the country. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance and plan your itinerary accordingly.
The flight between Townsville and Darwin typically takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $229 to $635. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is recommended to check with airlines or travel agencies for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Darwin. With over 363 hotels to choose from, travelers have a variety of choices. Prices for hotels in Darwin start at $50, making it easy to find affordable options for every budget. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly accommodations, or something in between, there are plenty of options available near Darwin City.

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