Top End Military & History: A 4-Day Itinerary

This military history itinerary focuses on Darwin and the Top End, covering key World War II sites connected to the Bombing of Darwin and Australia’s northern defence history. It is designed for travellers who want to delve into the Northern Territory’s rich military history.

Morning

Welcome to Darwin, your base to learn about the Top End’s rich military history. There's lots to see and do in the Top End so we recommend that you hire a vehicle for the trip. Alternatively purchase a ticket for the Big Bus which will take you to many of this itineraries attractions.

Mid-morning

Take a tour at the WWII Oil Tunnels located at the Darwin Waterfront on Kitchener Drive. This site opened to the public in 1992 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin, having previously remained closed during and after World War II.

Afternoon

Cross the road from the WWII Oil Tunnels and continue to explore the Darwin Waterfront where you will find a range of shops, galleries and restaurants. Some local favourites to dine at include:

• Snapper Rocks
• Pink Chopstix
• bellaBar

After lunch take the ten minute walk or the complimentary shuttle bus to Stokes Hill Wharf and visit the RFDS Darwin Tourist Facility. This immersive experience uses holograms, virtual reality and interactive storytelling to present the history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Bombing of Darwin.

Evening

Post tour explore Stokes Hill Wharf which is a historic waterfront precinct in Darwin Harbour with direct links to World War II and the Bombing of Darwin. The wharf was a key military supply and transport point and was damaged during the 1942 air raids. Today, it serves as a departure point for harbour cruises and offers casual dining options, making it a convenient location for lunch or dinner.

Morning

Start with breakfast at your accommodation, then join the WWII by Land and Sea Tour, a five-hour guided experience combining key land-based historical sites with a harbour cruise. The tour highlights Darwin Harbour’s strategic role during World War II, including defence installations and air raid locations. If you would like to explore these experiences at your own pace, you can also visit Darwin Military Museum, Darwin Aviation Museum, or take the Bombing of Darwin Cruise independently by purchasing entry or cruise passes.

Afternoon

Return to the city for lunch. Darwin is famous for its laksa, a local staple influenced by Southeast Asian flavours and a must-try dish during your visit.

After lunch, explore Smith Street Mall and browse local stores such as:

• Embella
• House of Darwin
• Aboriginal Bush Traders

These shops are ideal for Aboriginal art, Territory-made products, and unique souvenirs.

Evening

Have dinner at the Darwin Services Club, a centrally located venue with strong military connections, offering a relaxed atmosphere to conclude your day.

Morning

Today you’ll be taking a road trip to Adelaide River. The drive from Darwin to Adelaide River is 115 km (1 hour 15 minutes) all on sealed roads south along the Stuart Highway, following a key World War II supply route that linked Darwin’s frontline defences with inland military bases. Grab some breakfast on the go from a local café:

• Rays Café and Patisserie
• Laneway
• Besser

In Adelaide River you can visit:

Adelaide River War Cemetery

• The largest military cemetery in the Northern Territory
• Final resting place for many service personnel and civilians

Adelaide River Railway Museum

• Explores the role of the North Australia Railway during World War II
• Highlights transport and logistics critical to the war effort

Afternoon

Have lunch at the Adelaide River Inn, a convenient stop for travellers exploring the Top End. The Inn features a bistro, bar, and beer garden open daily.

Evening

Explore Darwin’s vibrant culinary scene, where proximity to Asia has shaped a diverse mix of flavours and dining experiences. On Thursdays and Sundays April-October you can visit the iconic Mindil Beach Sunset Markets and taste a variety of local flavours.

Morning

Start your morning with an early walk along the Darwin Esplanade, where historical markers and World War II sites highlight the city’s wartime past.

Continue to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT).

Have breakfast at Saltwater @ Bundilla, located within the museum precinct.

Explore MAGNT’s key exhibits:

• Cyclone Tracy Gallery
• NATSIA (National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art) Collection
• Natural history and military context displays

Tip: We recommend allowing 1.5–2 hours to experience the highlights

Afternoon

Have lunch by the water at Il Piato, located at the Mindil Beach Casino and Resort. The restaurant serves authentic Italian flavours alongside inventive new classics with a beautiful view of the Arafura Sea.

Evening

Take a Sunset Cruise with Sail Darwin and enjoy a stunning Darwin harbour sunset on your final evening. The 1.5–2 hour cruise departs from Stokes Hill Wharf and offers panoramic views of Darwin Harbour. the perfect way to round out your Top End holiday.