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Northern Territory

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About Northern Territory

Perhaps the most remote of Australia's regions, the Northern Territory is a fascinating, magical land of vast wetland plains, a craggy coastline and dazzling red desert. Undoubtedly most famous as the site of Uluru, the Northern Territory is rich in Aboriginal heritage and culture, and you’ll find opportunities aplenty to delve into this unique identity. Although less-visited than many parts of Australia, the Northern Territory boasts some excellent accommodation options — many clustered around Darwin and Alice Springs. Our list of the best places to stay in the Northern Territory includes intimate B&Bs, remote homesteads and resorts alike, ensuring that there really is something for everyone in the ‘Top End’.

Coastal Darwin is a lively state capital, with fantastic food and craft markets at Parap and Mindil Beach, and an exuberant arts scene. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is a real highlight, whilst the Waterfront Precinct’s buzzy cafes and eateries are well worth a wander. Take sea and river cruises, spot rare flora in the Botanical Gardens, and admire birds and reptiles aplenty in the Charles Darwin National Park and the expansive wetlands of the Kakadu National Park.

A short flight or scenic train ride to the south, Alice Springs is the gateway to the red deserts of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This little outback city has a cool, creative vibe, with some brilliant galleries showcasing Aboriginal artwork, as well as heritage buildings and guided cultural tours. Venture to the National Parks and into the outback for hiking, mountain biking, camel riding, wildlife safaris and star-gazing. Set in a remote wilderness sure to delight keen adventurers of all ages, the best places to stay in the Northern Territory await.

The Best Places to Stay in the Northern Territory

For a Remote Lodge

  • Cicada Lodge offers 18 modern guest rooms just moments from the Katherine River and the magnificent Katherine Gorge. Expect original artwork by Australian artists, a swimming pool and great food. Stand-out acitivites include canoeing up to the gorge, private tours with knowledgeable indigenous guides, and bird-watching walks with naturalists in the vast wilderness of the Nitmiluk National Park. A nature-focused hideaway.

FOR a Beachfront Resort

  • Mindil Beach Casino Resort, on the northern side of Darwin, promises an extensive resort complex with multiple bars and restaurants, as well as late-night entertainment aplenty. Swish resort rooms and suites with big bathtubs overlook a refreshing lagoon pool, and guests can stroll down to the beach, follow coastal walking paths or catch the sunset over the Arafura Sea. Beachfront luxury.

FOR FAMILIES OR GROUPS

  • Rydges Darwin Central is a smart city hotel just a couple of hundred metres from Darwin's lively esplanade. Spacious rooms offer flexible options for families and groups, with extra beds in rooms clad in white, grey and turquoise. Splash around in the plunge pool and feast on Italian fare at Salvatore's Café.
  • Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is, as the name suggests, shaped like a crocodile. Spacious rooms have multiple beds for families or groups of friends, and the refreshing swimming pool is ideal for splashing around after hiking and cycling in the Kakadu National Park. Expect modern Australian cuisine at the Manjmukmuk Restaurant. Very reasonably priced.
  • Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront offers chic, white-on-white guest rooms with pale wooden furnishings, light blue accents and harbour views. The Waterfront Precinct brims with bars and restaurants, perfect for buzzy evenings out. The a pool and relaxed café will be popular with families, who can also add roll-away beds to bigger bedrooms.
  • Waterfront Luxury Suites are a sleek and stylish collection of multi-bedroom contemporary apartments overlooking Darwin's Waterfront Precinct. Well-equipped apartments have kitchens, sitting rooms, dining spaces and shaded balconies. A lovely luxury choice for those dreaming of more independence on their city break. Cook up a storm for the whole family with produce from the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets.

For a Romantic Luxury Escape

  • Bamurru Plains is a spectacular escape in the Mary River wetlands. Nine spacious tented bungalows promise uninterrupted views, with inviting beds, private decks and a real sense of seclusion. Gather at the restaurant for fabulous food, or sink into the infinity pool after days of bird watching and 4WD or river safaris. Remote, pared-back luxury.
  • Longitude 131°, tantalisingly close to Uluru, is amongst Australia's most indulgent tented camps. The 15 tents and pavilions feel more like sumptuous suites, with panoramic views, a serene spa, small group excursions to Uluru and Kata Tjuta, and gourmet dining under the stars. An exceptional honeymoon haven.

FOR GREAT VALUE

  • Argus Hotel is a modern property in central Darwin, with compact, affordable rooms. Simple spaces are clean, modern and functional, and guests share access to a refreshing swimming pool. A great base for exploring the city as a couple or with friends and family.
  • H on Smith Hotel, on Darwin's lively Smith Street, is a trendy contemporary spot with crisp white linens, smart bathrooms - the best of which have sink-tub bathtubs - and big picture windows. The relaxed poolside restaurant specialises in modern Asian cuisine, and the best of the city is right on your doorstep. Also very reasonably priced.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY Cabin

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Darwin International Airport or to Alice Springs Airport, or travel across the region on the iconic Ghan train. reputedly one of the world's best railway journeys, this railway line cross the country to connect Darwin and Alice Springs to Adelaide. If you're staying somewhere truly remote, you might consider a charter flight or helicopter ride - speak to the team at the lodge in question about the options for this.
  • The Northern Territory is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Summers (December to February) are very hot, with temperatures hovering at around 33°C and more rainfall. Visit between June and August for cooler temperatures, dry weather and more possibilities of exploring the outback.

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Best Hotels in Northern Territory

  • Argus Hotel Darwin (Australia) 102 rooms from $77

    Local exploring  -  A good base from which to explore both the city of Darwin and the natural wonders of the Northern Territory
    Local markets  -  Parap, Nightcliff and Mindill Beach Sunset markets take place throughout the week
    Sailing  -  Enjoy a sunset harbour cruise around Darwin, discovering the city from the water
    Families  -  Spacious family rooms with extra beds are great for trips with kids or friends
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A modern hotel in downtown Darwin with functional, compact and good-value rooms and a pool. The central location means the city's beaches, markets and main sites are all easily accessible. The hotel can arrange day trips around the Northern Territories as well as sunset cruises & fishing excursions. See More

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  • H on Smith Hotel Darwin (Australia) 186 rooms from $92

    Great walks  -  Take a guided walking tour of the city, encompassing landmarks such as the St Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Cathedral
    Museums  -  Delve into the region's history at the Darwin Botanic Gardens or the Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
    Local exploring  -  Perfectly placed for exploring central Darwin and the CBD on foot whilst in the city for business or leisure
    Value chic  -  Stylish contemporary design with a young, hip feel and very reasonable rates
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A hip modern hotel occupying a central position on Smith St. Rooms have clean design with crisp white linen, expansive windows and spacious showers (suites have spa baths). Modern Asian cuisine is served in an open restaurant overlooking the pool. With great rates, this is a perfect city crashpad. See More

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  • Rydges Darwin Central Darwin (Australia) 132 rooms from $99

    Families  -  A family friendly hotel in central Darwin, with family suites, a refreshing plunge pool and a superb central location
    Local markets  -  Pick up local produce at the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, the largest in Australia in the dry season
    Local exploring  -  Perfectly located in the heart of the city with easy access to restaurants, malls, and the Esplanade
    Other Activities  -  Take the little ones boogie-boarding and tube-riding at Wave Lagoon
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A smart modern hotel right in the heart of the city, close to the Esplanade. Chic rooms are simply styled with large sink-into beds, wooden furniture and blue-green cushions. The best rooms have coastal views. Salvatore's Café specialises in Italian fare, and there's a gym & plunge pool, too. See More

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  • Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel Jabiru, Northern Territory from $126

    Trekking  -  Follow scenic hiking trails through the Kakadu National Park, admiring dramatic landscapes and spotting wildlife
    Families  -  A family-friendly hotel with spacious guest rooms and a refreshing swimming pool for splashing around together
    Active Holiday  -  Perfectly situated for exploring the spectacular Kakadu National Park, with hiking and cycling trails aplenty
    Golf  -  Play a round or two on the Jabiru Golf Course, with views in all directions
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Fodors

    This crocodile-shaped hotel does not disappoint. Spacious, clean and cool rooms are complimented by top amenities including a a swimming pool and nearby tennis courts. A stunning location in Kakadu National Park. See More

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  • Quest Alice Springs Alice Springs (Northern Territory) 68 rooms from $138

    Business meetings  -  Meeting rooms and work spaces in apartments make this a great business trip base, especially for long stays
    Families  -  Two- and three-bedroom apartments are ideal for family trips, with private kitchens and shared pool access
    Great walks  -  Hike part of the epic Larapinta Trail, deemed to be amongst the best walks in the world by National Geographic
    Birdwatching  -  Follow birding trails in the Mulga scrubland to spot some of the 180 species seen around Alice Springs
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A collection of 68 serviced apartments close to the Todd River in central Alice Springs. Modern spaces offer one, two or three bedrooms, with well-equipped kitchens, dining spaces & sitting rooms. Guests share access to a swimming pool, BBQ area & meeting rooms. Nearby restaurants are a walk away. See More

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  • Mindil Beach Casino Resort Darwin (Northern Territory) 154 rooms from $145

    Business meetings  -  A stylish resort on the edge of Darwin, with meeting rooms & conference facilities, as well as lively entertainment spaces
    Hotel Entertainment  -  The resort has multiple gaming options at the bustling casino, and live entertainment at INFINITY Beats
    Groups  -  A lively resort with a casino, perfect for luxury trips or celebrations with a group of friends
    Great walks  -  Follow scenic beachfront walking and jogging tracks at the edge of the hotel
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    With its own private beach area, an infinity and lagoon pool and popular casino, this is Darwin's liveliest resort. Set within 30 acres of seaside gardens, contemporary interiors are clad in white & cream tones, and suites have free-standing tubs. Multiple buzzy bars and eateries await. See More

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  • Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront Darwin (Australia) 121 rooms from $151

    Families  -  A range of family suites, a large pool, and the option to add roll-away beds make this a great choice for families
    Value chic  -  With chic modern design and a Waterfront Precinct position, you are getting a lot for very low prices
    Close to nightlife  -  The Waterfront Precinct brims with buzzy bars and restaurants, perfect for fun-filled evenings out
    Theatre  -  Catch a movie at nearby Deckchair Cinemas, Darwin's famed cinema under the stars
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A chic modern hotel located right on Waterfront Precinct offering rooms at very attractive prices. Minimalist bedrooms are all white-on-white with large picture windows and indulgent modern bathrooms. Downstairs is a half-covered pool and a relaxed cafe. An affordable yet stylish stay in Darwin. See More

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  • SqueakyWindmill Boutique Tent B&B Alice Springs (Northern Territory) 3 rooms from $165

    Back to Nature  -  A tented camp just 15 km from Alice Springs, but with a real sense of being immersed in the wilderness under the stars
    Groups  -  Each tent sleeps up to three guests, and you can book all three tents for a fabulous escape with a group of friends
    Views  -  Marvellous views of the scenic Western MacDonnell Ranges
    Birdwatching  -  Spot some of the 180 species of birds found in the Alice Springs area whilst on walks or from your private deck
    GardenViewsParking

    Three eco-tents offer an immersion into the Central Australian wilderness on the edge of the Western MacDonnell Ranges. Tents with en-suite bathrooms feature cosy double beds — or 3 singles — topped with patterned quilts & facing mountain-view decks. Evening BBQs & campfires are very special. See More

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  • Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters Alice Springs (Northern Territory) 229 rooms from $186

    Business meetings  -  A great business hotel, with multiple events spaces & easy access to the Alice Springs Convention Centre & evening entertainment
    Groups  -  Sociable groups of friends will love the multiple bars and eateries, the relaxed pool area and the buzzy casino
    Great walks  -  Follow striking hiking trails through the MacDonnell Ranges, with dramatic gorges and rocky viewpoints aplenty
    Restaurant  -  Feast on modern Australian fare at Tali, grilled cuisine at Juicy Rump, or relaxed snacks and lunches at Splash Poolside Cafe
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A big hotel bordering the Todd River on the south-eastern side of Alice Springs, with 229 modern rooms & suites. The best rooms have space for extra beds, bathtubs & impressive views of the majestic MacDonnell Ranges. A swimming pool, casino and multiple eateries complete the picture. See More

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  • Groote Eylandt Lodge Alyangula,, Northern Territory 60 rooms from $224

    Hideaway  -  The only lodge of its kind on Groote Eylandt, this is a rare hideaway for adventurers in a remote part of the Northern Territory
    Fishing  -  Private fishing safaris are fabulous, with reef, bluewater & estuary fishing suitable for beginners or experienced anglers
    Learning  -  Discover Groote Eylandt by 4WD, touring historic buildings, seeing ancient cave paintings & admiring endemic flora
    Back to Nature  -  A nature-focused escape, known for its fantastic fishing charters & outdoorsy island tours
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking

    A simple lodge on the remote Groote Eylandt, with traditional bungalows boasting garden & sea-facing decks. Classic interiors have ocean-inspired artwork, bathtubs and bright textiles. Famed for its fishing charters & adventurous island tours, the lodge also has a refreshing pool & good restaurant. See More

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  • Vatu Sanctuary Alice Springs (Northern Territory) 4 rooms from $256

    Hideaway  -  The one-bedroom Bure is a cosy spot for romantic hideaway in a tranquil setting within easy reach of central Alice Springs
    Families  -  Multi-bedroom apartments are ideal for families, who will love the swimming pool, private decks and kitchen facilities
    Local markets  -  Lively markets are held near Todd Mall every second Sunday, perfect for picking up local produce and crafts as souvenirs
    Great walks  -  Hike part of the acclaimed Larapinta Trail, soaking up magical views of Central Australia's dramatic landscapes
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    Four comfortable multi-bedroom apartments and a studio sit around a refreshing lagoon pool in northern Alice Springs. Eclectic spaces feature Aboriginal artwork — some for sale — plus bright textiles and garden views. Well-equipped kitchens, sitting rooms & inviting decks are ideal for longer stays. See More

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  • Cicada Lodge Katherine, Northern Territory 18 rooms from $295

    Back to Nature  -  Explore the vast wilderness of the Nitmiluk National Park, with endemic flora & fauna aplenty, from this tranquil lodge
    Active Holiday  -  A riverside lodge close to the Katherine River, perfect for canoeing, cycling, hiking and bird watching
    Learning  -  Delve into the region's Aboriginal culture with guided tours - some of which focus on ancient rock art
    Canoeing  -  Tr your hand at canoeing on the Katherine River, up to the astonishing Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Fodors

    Luxury hotel offering spacious, air conditioned ensuite rooms and a swimming pool with magnificent views across the Katherine gorge. Original work by Australian artists hangs on walls. Take advantage of indigenous guides and wildlife tours to take in this unique landscape. See More

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  • Ooraminna Station Homestead Alice Springs (Northern Territory) 4 rooms from $297

    Weddings  -  A beautiful destination for dazzling weddings in the outback, with multiple event spaces, a great team & striking settings
    Families  -  The Stone & Log Cabins are ideal for families, with multiple beds, shaded decks & 600 acres of wilderness for activities
    Great walks  -  Explore 600 acres of private walking trails across the rugged, dramatic landscape of the Alice Springs region
    Restaurant  -  Enjoy contemporary Australian cuisine at The Wild Horse Bar & Grill or gourmet fare at The Homestead
    RestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A laid-back adventurer's dream, this 600-acre slice of the outback — once a filmset — promises rustic cabins, glamping tents & a campsite with dazzling views. The restaurant-bar serves cracking Australian fare & live music nights are hugely popular. Expect starlit skies & a real sense of seclusion. See More

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  • Darwin Waterfront Luxury Suites Darwin (Australia) 17 rooms from $316

    Local markets  -  Pick up fresh produce at the fabulous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, the Rapid Creek Farmers' Market and the Parap Market
    Families  -  For those travelling with children who would prefer a self-catering option, this is the perfect city base
    Close to nightlife  -  The Waterfront Precinct, alongside the apartments, is filled with a good range of restaurants
    City Style  -  Expect chic modern design with fabulous coastal views - both homely and very stylish
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    A collection of sleek waterfront apartments perfectly located in the heart of Darwin. Ranging from one-bed to three-beds, this is a great choice for families or groups. With chic minimalist style, fabulous views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and modern kitchens - this is an idyllic city base. See More

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  • Sails in the Desert Hotel Yulara (Northern Territory) 228 rooms from $360

    Active Holiday  -  As well as having a swimming pool, tennis court & large grounds, this hotel is surrounded by myriad opportunities for adventure
    Great walks  -  Take guided walks to the base of Uluru, in the spectacular Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
    Romantic Break  -  Romantic couples will adore sumptuous suites, the soothing spa and craft cocktails
    Restaurant  -  Feast on modern Australian flavours at the brasserie-style Ilkari Restaurant, or Indigenous-inspired dishes at Walpa Lobby Bar
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Part of the expansive Ayers Rock Resort, Sails in the Desert is a luxurious hotel with an impressive collection of Aboriginal artwork. Spacious rooms & suites have whitewashed walls, patterned textiles & modern bathrooms. There's an onsite gallery, spa, tennis court, pool & two eateries, too. See More

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  • Bullo River Station Baines, Northern Territory 12 rooms from $892

    Hideaway  -  A gorgeous hideaway for romantic couples or groups of friends and families seeking a unique experience in the Australian Outback
    Birdwatching  -  Spot some of 100 bird species in the morning & late afternoon, including whistling ducks, wedge-tailed eagles & red wing parrots
    Learning  -  Delve into the region's Aboriginal art with guided tours of some of the 200 sites belonging to the Miriuwung-Gajerrong people
    Back to Nature  -  A dazzling escape on 400,000 acres of land, with trekking, horse riding, bird watching and river tours
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A sensational escape with just 12 guest rooms in a retro farmhouse on a vast, 400,000-acre cattle station. Immerse yourself in the magic of the outback, with elegant rooms featuring handwoven textiles, wrought-iron beds & garden views. Produce is sourced from the grounds & activities abound. Epic! See More

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  • Bamurru Plains Kakadu, Northern Territory 9 rooms from $1704

    Hideaway  -  An intimate retreat with just nine tents set within a 300km working farm, with candlelit dinners & a real sense of seclusion
    Back to Nature  -  A superb safari escape with just nine eco-tents, perfect for wildlife and bird-spotting in the wilderness
    Safari  -  Take 4WD, boat or hiking safaris, spotting wallabies, water buffalo, crocodiles, wild boar and birds
    Other Activities  -  Take scenic helicopter flights over the Kakadu National Park and the beautiful Mary River wetlands
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Mr & Mrs Smith

    Wild bush luxury comes no better than this, with 9 spacious standalone bungalows situated amongst the pandanus vegetation on the edge of the Mary River wetlands. Organic cotton sheets and high pressure showers ensure comfort, the food is fabulous & the wildlife-spotting opportunities are endless. See More

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  • Longitude 131° Yulara (Northern Territory) 15 rooms from $2497

    Other Activities  -  Join the camp's small group excursions - seeing Uluru at sunset, visiting a watering hole, or hiking a small part of Kata Tjuta
    Back to Nature  -  A fabulous retreat overlooking spellbinding Uluru, perfect for hiking, cycling, bird-watching & exploring the outdoors
    Honeymoons  -  A gorgeous romantic honeymoon hideaway, with indulgent tents, a lovely spa, candlelit dinners & private excursions
    Learning  -  Take a day trip to the Ernabella Arts Community, the oldest indigenous art centre in Australia
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors, Mr & Mrs Smith

    With breathtaking views out to the sacred Uluru rock, this is the ultimate glamping experience. Every need is catered for, with luxurious tents & pavilions combining style, sophistication and comfort in the most glorious way. The beautiful spa & al fresco dining under the stars are not to be missed. See More

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