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Your Brisbane to Darwin Road Trip
Discover the interesting journey from Brisbane to Darwin, exploring Australia’s diverse landscapes and attractions.
From Queensland’s coastal allure to the rugged Northern Territory outback, this road trip offers iconic sights, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences.
Join us as we dive into this adventure, offering insights and tips along the way.
Brisbane to Darwin Road Trip: An Overview
The road trip from Brisbane to Darwin covers about 2,128.6 miles and takes around 36 hours of driving. It’s perfect for people who love different kinds of landscapes and new experiences.
Starting in Brisbane, you’ll see beautiful beaches and clear blue water. As you keep going, the scenery changes to the wild outback of the Northern Territory, with its wide-open spaces and interesting rock formations.
There are lots of famous places to visit along the way. You shouldn’t miss Uluru, a huge rock that’s very important to Australia’s indigenous people.
Kakadu National Park is also amazing, with old rock paintings, big waterfalls, and lots of different animals.
If you like nature, you’ll appreciate the Great Barrier Reef. It’s like a whole other world underwater, with lots of colorful fish and other creatures. And don’t forget to watch the beautiful sunsets over the ocean!
But it’s not just about the big sights. You’ll also find cute little towns, places to eat good Aussie food, and friendly people with interesting stories.
Driving along, you’ll see how the scenery changes and find new things to explore around every corner. So whether you’re on your own or with your family, the Brisbane to Darwin road trip has something for everyone!
| Brisbane to Darwin Road Trip Number of Stops: 7Distance: 2,128.6 milesTravel Time: 36 hours |
1. Toowoomba
Your first stop on the Brisbane to Darwin road trip is Toowoomba, located just 79.1 miles away from Brisbane, about an hour and 54 minutes’ drive. Toowoomba is known for its country vibe, emerging coffee scene, and vibrant street art.
It’s a great place to kick off your adventure with its image-worthy parks and gardens.
While you’re here, visit Queens Park and relax in its beautiful botanic garden, or enjoy some sports in the spacious grassy areas. The park is especially stunning in spring and summer, bursting with colourful blooms.
For a dose of history and fun, check out The Cobb+Co Museum. It’s home to the National Carriage Collection, featuring 47 horse-drawn vehicles.
You can explore interactive exhibits, join heritage workshops, and learn about Australia’s transport history. There’s even an Energy for Life Discovery Centre and a play area for kids called The Coach Stop.
| Stop 1: Toowoomba Distance: 79.1 milesTravel Time: 1 hour, 54 minutes |
Stay at Oaks Hotel
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Address: 25 Annand St, Toowoomba City, QLD 4350, Australia
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Toowoomba, the Oaks Hotel is a great choice. It’s located near lots of bars and restaurants, and it’s only a short walk from the bus stop and the Grand Central Shopping Centre.
Plus, Queens Park Toowoomba is just a 15-minute stroll away.
The rooms at Oaks Hotel are simple but comfortable, with balconies and all the basic amenities you need, like flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi. You’ll also find minifridges, microwaves, and kettles in each room.
If you need more space, they have suites with separate living rooms, perfect for families or groups.
During your stay, you can take advantage of the outdoor pool and gym, or grab a bite to eat at the relaxed cafe.
Eat at Sofra
Media credit: @sofraturkishcuisine
Website: http://www.sofra.com.au/
Address: 164 Margaret St, Toowoomba City, QLD 4350, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Sofra is a lively restaurant that offers traditional Turkish cuisine with a modern twist, making it a top choice for food enthusiasts in the Toowoomba area.
The menu at Sofra features a wide range of homestyle Turkish dishes, prepared with care and authenticity. From succulent kebabs to flavourful mezes, each dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Turkey.
2. Morven
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Your second stop on the Brisbane to Darwin road trip is Morven, a charming town located approximately 197.61 miles away from Toowoomba, which is about a 4-hour and 20-minute drive.
Despite its small size, Morven offers several attractions that are worth exploring.
One highlight is the Morven Historical Museum, where you can learn about the town’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts. From old photographs to vintage tools, the museum offers a glimpse into Morven’s past.
Nature lovers will appreciate the beauty of Tregole National Park, with its scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife. Take a stroll along the trails or enjoy a picnic amid the natural surroundings.
For a refreshing dip, head to Saddlier’s Waterhole, a spot perfect for swimming and relaxation. It’s a great place to cool off on a hot day and soak in the peacefulness of the Australian bush.
Don’t forget to stock up on supplies at the local Morven Friendly Grocer before continuing your journey. And if you’re craving more outdoor adventures, Chesterton Range National Park is nearby, offering opportunities for hiking and exploration.
| Stop 2: Morven Distance: 197.61 milesTravel Time: 4 hours, 20 minutes |
Stay at Morven Hotel Motel
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Address: 78 Warrego Hwy, Morven, QLD 4468, Australia
For those who need a simple and affordable place to stay in the Morven area, the Morven Hotel Motel is a great choice.
Morven Hotel Motel offers cozy accommodations with small yet clean rooms. Each room is also equipped with a microwave for added convenience.
On top of that, the motel offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi and parking, ensuring a hassle-free stay for travelers.
Additionally, with a pub located just outside, guests can enjoy easy access to drinks and dining, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Eat at Morven Truck Stop
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Website: https://www.charlevillersl.com.au/
Address: 37-39 Watson St, Charleville QLD 4470, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
From Morven, drive a little further and you’ll reach Charleville RSL Memorial Club. This restaurant offers a satisfying and convenient option for both locals and visitors alike.
The menu features a range of classic pub favorites, including hearty burgers, succulent steaks, and fresh seafood dishes. There are also options for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone can find something to satisfy their cravings.
In addition to the delicious food, the club offers affordable prices, making it a popular choice for families and budget-conscious travelers.
3. Longreach
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After traversing Morven, your next stop on the Brisbane to Darwin road trip is Longreach, located approximately 325.6 miles away, which is about a 5-hour and 30-minute drive.
This town holds the essence of outback Queensland, offering a rich history and culture for you to explore.
If you’re a history enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to discover in Longreach. Learn about the journey of local aboriginal people and the pioneering families who settled the area.
The Qantas Founders Museum is also a must-visit in Longreach area. This place showcases the airline’s role in commercial flight with original planes and interactive displays.
Don’t forget to snap a picture with the replica-sized figures that tell the story of Australia’s aviators.
And in the evenings, immerse yourself in outback life at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre.
Under the vast, starry skies, enjoy entertaining talks from locals and a spectacular night show celebrating the heritage and spirit of the outback.
| Stop 3: Longreach Distance: 325.6 milesTravel Time: 5 hours, 30 minutes |
Stay at Longreach Motor Inn
Address: 84 Galah St, Longreach, QLD 4730, Australia
Found conveniently off Highway A2 in Longreach town centre, the Longreach Motor Inn offers a comfortable stay for travelers.
It’s located just 1.24 miles away from the Qantas Founders Outback Museum and 1.86 miles from the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, making it greatly situated for exploring the town’s attractions.
The rooms are simple but cosy, with amenities like free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and minifridges. Some upgraded rooms even come with balconies and minibars for added comfort.
Eat at The Longreach Tavern
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Website: https://www.longreachtavern.com.au/
Address: 103 Eagle St, Longreach, QLD 4730, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
If you’re looking for a relaxed dining experience in Longreach, The Longreach Tavern is a great choice. With its outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the fresh air while dining.
The tavern also hosts trivia nights, adding an element of fun and entertainment to your visit.
One of the highlights of dining at The Longreach Tavern is the food served at the bar. Whether you’re craving classic pub favourites or something more adventurous, you’ll find a variety of options to satisfy your appetite.
Plus, the portion sizes are generous, ensuring you’ll leave feeling satisfied.
4. Mount Isa
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Your next stop on the Brisbane to Darwin road trip is Mount Isa, which is about 402.1 miles away and takes approximately 7 hours to reach.
When you arrive in Mount Isa, you’ll get to appreciate the town’s rich mining culture. Mount Isa is famous for its mining industry, with Mount Isa Mines being one of the most productive single mines in the country.
To learn more about the town’s mining history, you can take part in the Hard Times Mining Tour. During this tour, you’ll get to dress up in orange overalls, gumboots, and hard hats, and experience firsthand the day-to-day operations of a working mine.
| Stop 4: Mount Isa Distance: 402.1 milesTravel Time: 7 hours |
Stay at Outback Motel
Address: 45 West St, Mount Isa City, QLD 4825, Australia
Located conveniently along your road trip route, the Outback Motel provides a convenient and comfortable place to rest and recharge before continuing your journey.
The motel provides cosy rooms at a reasonable price, ensuring a budget-friendly option for travelers.
The rooms are designed for comfort, providing a relaxing retreat after a long day of exploring the outback. Plus, if you’re in need of some extra convenience, the motel offers room service, allowing you to enjoy a meal in the comfort of your own room.
Eat at Zambrero
Website: https://www.zambrero.com.au/locations/mt-isa
Address: 41/43 Simpson St, Mount Isa, QLD 4825, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
When craving Mexican food in Mount Isa, Zambrero is the go-to spot. Not only does it serve delicious burritos and bowls, but it also gives back to those in need through its Plate 4 Plate initiative.
For every burrito or bowl purchased at Zambrero, a meal is donated to someone in need in the developing world, allowing you to contribute to a worthy cause.
5. Tennant Creek
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Now, prepare for a drive of 410.5 miles, which takes about 6 hours and 49 minutes, to head to Tennant Creek.
Tennant Creek comes after Mount Isa, near the halfway point of a 14-day Brisbane to Darwin road trip. It’s an important stop along the Stuart Highway and the first major town northbound travelers encounter on the Barkly Highway.
Despite being smaller than other towns, Tennant Creek is home to around 3,000 people.
It offers essential amenities and attractions for travelers, such as the Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre, making it an ideal place to rest on a long journey through Australia’s Northern Territory.
| Stop 5: Tennant CreekDistance: 410.5 milesTravel Time: 6 hours, 49 minutes |
Stay at Eldorado Motor Inn
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Address: 217 Paterson St, Tennant Creek, NT 0860, Australia
Before heading to your next stop on the Brisbane to Darwin road trip, consider staying at the Eldorado Motor Inn. While the motel may be a little old, it offers clean and affordable rooms, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
One of the advantages of staying at the Eldorado Motor Inn is that it’s pet-friendly, allowing you to bring along your furry friends on your journey. This can be especially convenient for travelers with pets who want to explore the outback together.
Eat at Woks Up Chinese Restaurant
Address: 108 Paterson St, Tennant Creek, NT, Australia, Northern Territory
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
When you’re in Tennant Creek and craving Chinese cuisine, Woks Up Chinese Restaurant is the place to be.
At Woks Up, you can expect a range of traditional Chinese favourites, from stir-fries to noodles to delicious rice dishes. Plus, with its convenient location in Tennant Creek, it’s a convenient option for travelers passing through the area.
6. Katherine
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As you continue your journey from Tennant Creek, the next stop on your Brisbane to Darwin road trip is Katherine, which is about 419.2 miles away and takes about 6 hours and 55 minutes to reach.
Katherine is known for its stunning natural attractions, including Nitmiluk National Park, Edith Falls, and Katherine Hot Springs. Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring these beautiful landscapes and trying out various recreational activities.
In addition to its natural beauty, Katherine also offers modern facilities for visitors to enjoy. You can explore the fascinating Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park, go shopping, or relax in one of the many cafes in the area.
| Stop 6: KatherineDistance: 419.2 milesTravel Time: 6 hours, 55 minutes |
Stay at Katherine Motel
Address: 3 Giles St, Katherine, NT 0850, Australia
If you’re looking for a simple place to stay in Katherine, the Katherine Motel is a good choice. The motel’s just 1.86 miles from Katherine Hot Springs and an 11-minute walk from Mimi Aboriginal Arts and Crafts.
The motel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Each room has its own entrance from the outside and comes with a minifridge, tea, and coffee-making facilities. If you’re looking for a bit more space, upgraded rooms have sitting areas.
There’s also a relaxed restaurant and a bar with a terrace where you can enjoy a drink. Outside, there’s an outdoor saltwater pool where you can cool off.
Eat at Finch Cafe
Website: https://m.facebook.com/thefinchcafekatherine/
Address: 17a Katherine Terrace, Katherine, NT 0850, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Thursday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Saturday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
When you’re in Katherine and looking for a cosy spot to grab a bite to eat, Finch Cafe is a must-visit.
Conveniently located along your Brisbane to Darwin road trip route, it offers a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food that’s perfect for fueling up before hitting the road again.
One of the highlights of dining at Finch Cafe is its Mexican bowls. These hearty and flavourful bowls are packed with fresh ingredients and bold spices, making them a satisfying and filling choice.
In addition to their bowls, Finch Cafe also serves up fresh toasties made daily. Whether you’re craving a classic ham and cheese or something more adventurous like avocado and tomato, you’re sure to find a toastie that hits the spot.
7. Darwin
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And now, finally, you’ve reached Darwin, the last stop on your Brisbane to Darwin road trip. This vibrant city is just 197 miles away from Katherine, which will take you approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes to reach.
Now’s your chance to experience Australia’s unique wildlife up close!
One highlight is Fogg Dam Conservation Park, where you can spot wild crocodiles in their natural habitat. Another must-visit is Berry Springs Nature Park, where you can hand-feed wallabies and enjoy the calm surroundings.
For nature enthusiasts, bushwalking at Kakadu National Park is a great way to discover the local flora and fauna. Don’t forget to take a refreshing dip in the stunning outdoor swimming holes along the way.
You may also choose to spend a few days of the road trip soaking up the inviting environment and the surrounding exotic wildlife that Darwin has to offer. It’s a great way to end your journey before heading home.
| Stop 7: DarwinDistance: 197 milesTravel Time: 3 hours, 10 minutes |
Stay at Darwin City Hotel
Address: 59 Smith St, Darwin City, NT 0800, Australia
For those of you who are looking for a comfortable place to stay in Darwin, consider the Darwin City Hotel. The rooms are relaxed and come with everything you need for a pleasant stay, including flat-screen TVs, minibars, and safes.
You’ll also find tea and coffee making facilities, as well as free Wi-Fi to stay connected.
For those needing a bit more space, the hotel offers 1- and 2-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, living and dining areas, and furnished balconies.
During your stay, you can take advantage of amenities such as the outdoor pool for a refreshing swim. You also have access to an off-site gym to stay active during their visit.
It’s important to note that parking at the hotel comes with a fee, so keep this in mind when planning your stay.
Eat at Wharf One Food & Wine
Website: http://www.wharfone.com.au/
Address: 19 Kitchener Dr, Darwin City, NT 0801, Australia
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM; Friday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
A great way to end or celebrate the last leg of your road trip in Darwin is by dining at Wharf One Food & Wine.
This waterfront restaurant offers a fantastic atmosphere with outdoor seating, providing the perfect setting to enjoy the views and soak up the relaxed Darwin vibe.
Indulge in their selection of great cocktails, crafted to perfection and sure to elevate your dining experience.
For those with vegetarian preferences, Wharf One Food & Wine also serves a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
