From crocodiles and art galleries to sunset cruises, asian food markets, natural wonders and a chance to get up close and personal with the world's oldest living culture, Darwin is truly in a league of its own. Also known as the gateway to the outback and the extraordinary Kakadu National Park, it really is time to discover Darwin on your next holiday.

What are the must-see attractions in Darwin?

There's so many must-see attractions in Darwin and the Darwin area that it can be hard to know where to start. Here's a few tips to help you on your way.

Given the fact that winter doesn't really exist in Darwin, the city has a thriving outdoor marketplace culture. Watch the sunset while finding treasures and fine food at the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, or catch a weekend market in areas like Rapid Creek, Coolalinga and Nightcliff.

Shop the luxury boutiques for authentic crocodile and pearl products, cuddle a baby crocodile at Crocosaurus Cove if you're feeling brave, or cruise the harbour at sunset and watch the sun sink below the horizon.

Take a Darwin Heritage Walk and get the stories about Darwin's history and culture that only a local guide can provide. Fancy a swim? Relax at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct with a dip in the saltwater lagoon, ride the swell in the wave pool or enjoy a beer on the foreshore.

Darwin is also known for its vibrant art scene, with many galleries showcasing artworks from some of Australia's most significant Aboriginal artists. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory has amazing exhibits, including modern and traditional indigenous art and a retrospective on the devastating Cyclone Tracy that destroyed Darwin in 1974.

Head out of town for 45 minutes to experience a more traditional way of life, with a Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural tour. Learn about local indigenous customs and traditions, as well as techniques on how to play a didgeridoo, weave a basket or make a dilly bag. Tour the lush Mary River wetlands to see some of the 250 bird species that flock here, or catch yourself a Barramundi - a truly once in a lifetime experience.

Take a day trip to the stunning Tiwi Islands just a 30 minute flight or 2.5 hour ferry ride north of Darwin to immerse yourself in traditional culture, meet local artists and experience a smoking ceremony in one of Australia's most well known Aboriginal communities.

Not enough? Then it's time you visited Kakadu.

Few places in Australia, or even the world, are quite as unique or revered as Kakadu National Park, just 150 km from Darwin.

Covering an area of almost 20,000 square km, which is roughly half the size of Switzerland, Kakadu is as breathtaking in its size as it is in its natural beauty and cultural heritage. World heritage listed for both its natural and cultural significance, there is nowhere quite like Kakadu.

From bird watching, waterfall swimming and 4 wheel driving to cultural tours, scenic flights and bush walking, there's something for everyone in Kakadu. Given its enormous size, it is a destination that deserves days rather than hours to fully appreciate.

A home to its traditional indigenous owners for an estimated 65,000 years, there are approximately 2,000 different plant species, over 280 bird species and more than 10,000 crocodiles in the park.

Walk through Ubirr or the ancient shelters at Nourlangie and learn about ancient rock art (some rock paintings are over 20,000 years old) to fully appreciate the diversity and skill in traditional Kakadu art, or take a walk on one of the 30 established walking trails in the park.

Want more? Then watch the sunset while cruising on Yellow Water billabong, climb up for a swim at Gunlom pool high on the escarpment, marvel at the splendour of Jim Jim Falls or watch nature in all its splendour as you bird watch at Mamukala wetlands.

Also within an easy driving distance of just under an hour and a half from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is another internationally recognised natural treasure. From monsoon forests, stunning waterfalls and ancient rock formations, Litchfield is well worth a visit.