$127 Cheap Flights from Darwin (DRW) to Melbourne (MEL)

View $127 flight on Sun, Apr 5, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Darwin International Airport (DRW) to Melbourne Airport (MEL)

Cheap Flights from Darwin to Melbourne (DRW-MEL)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $127 for one-way flights and $370 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Jetstar
Sun, Mar 8 - Thu, Apr 16
DRW
Darwin
MEL
Melbourne
$370 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$370
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 8 from Darwin to Melbourne, returning Thu, Apr 16, priced at $370 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Sat, Mar 7 - Sat, Mar 28
DRW
Darwin
MEL
Melbourne
$377 Roundtrip, found 22 hours ago
$377
Roundtrip
found 22 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sat, Mar 7 from Darwin to Melbourne, returning Sat, Mar 28, priced at $377 found 22 hours ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 8 - Thu, Apr 16
DRW
Darwin
MEL
Melbourne
$387 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$387
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 8 from Darwin to Melbourne, returning Thu, Apr 16, priced at $387 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 8 - Thu, Apr 16
DRW
Darwin
MEL
Melbourne
$392 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$392
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 8 from Darwin to Melbourne, returning Thu, Apr 16, priced at $392 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 8 - Thu, Apr 16
DRW
Darwin
MEL
Melbourne
$398 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$398
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 8 from Darwin to Melbourne, returning Thu, Apr 16, priced at $398 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 8 - Thu, Apr 16
DRW
Darwin
MEL
Melbourne
$401 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$401
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 8 from Darwin to Melbourne, returning Thu, Apr 16, priced at $401 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 8 - Thu, Apr 16
DRW
Darwin
MEL
Melbourne
$405 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$405
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 8 from Darwin to Melbourne, returning Thu, Apr 16, priced at $405 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 8 - Thu, Apr 16
DRW
Darwin
MEL
Melbourne
$415 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$415
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 8 from Darwin to Melbourne, returning Thu, Apr 16, priced at $415 found 5 hours ago
Virgin Australia
Sun, Mar 8 - Thu, Apr 16
DRW
Darwin
MEL
Melbourne
$430 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$430
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Virgin Australia flight, departing Sun, Mar 8 from Darwin to Melbourne, returning Thu, Apr 16, priced at $430 found 5 hours ago
Qantas Airways
Sun, Mar 22 - Sun, Mar 29
DRW
Darwin
MEL
Melbourne
$657 Roundtrip, found 14 hours ago
$657
Roundtrip
found 14 hours ago
Select Qantas Airways flight, departing Sun, Mar 22 from Darwin to Melbourne, returning Sun, Mar 29, priced at $657 found 14 hours ago

Find the cheapest month to fly from Darwin (DRW) to Melbourne (MEL)

February is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $240 - $417 per traveler.
Flights from Darwin (DRW) to Melbourne (MEL)
Origin airport
Darwin Intl.
Destination airport
Tullamarine
Airlines serving
Jetstar, Qantas Airways, Virgin Australia
Roundtrip price
$369
Distance
1946 mi
Average flight time
5 hours 42 mins

Darwin to Melbourne Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Darwin to Melbourne

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Darwin to Melbourne are during the month of March. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Darwin to Melbourne with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Darwin to Melbourne

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Darwin to Melbourne: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Darwin to Melbourne

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Darwin to Melbourne in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $127 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Darwin to Melbourne flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Darwin to Melbourne airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $127 and cheap return flights from $370 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $254 to $1491, and return flights typically cost between $416 and $3041. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The cheapest month to fly from DRW to MEL is March when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
Choose from 3 airlines operating direct flights from DRW to MEL:

  • Qantas Airways operates around 9 direct flights from DRW to MEL every week
  • Virgin Australia operates around 9 direct flights from DRW to MEL every week
  • Jetstar operates around 7 direct flights from DRW to MEL every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
Jetstar is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Darwin Intl. (DRW) to Tullamarine (MEL), with round-trip tickets starting from around $253. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
To find a cheap flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The best airline to fly with from Darwin, NT (DRW) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Virgin Australia offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Jetstar typically offers the lowest fares. Qantas Airways offers the most daily flights from DRW to MEL, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
There are approximately 3 nonstop flights per day from Darwin Intl. (DRW) to Tullamarine (MEL). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The earliest flight from Darwin International Airport (DRW) to Tullamarine (MEL) usually departs at around 12:10 AM, operated by Jetstar. This service is seasonal and active in January, February, March, October, November, and December, making it a great option for early risers heading to Melbourne. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Darwin (DRW) to Melbourne (MEL) are in the early morning, from midnight to 3am. About 37% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Qantas Airways and Jetstar, offer flights during this period. This timing is favored as it allows you to arrive in Melbourne early in the day, ready to explore.
How long does it take to fly from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
Direct flights from DRW to MEL usually take about 4 hours 20 minutes, traveling roughly 1,947 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 4 hours 10 minutes to your journey. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
Business class seats are offered on the DRW to MEL route with Qantas Airways and Virgin Australia.
How do I earn miles on a Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Melbourne from Darwin Intl. (DRW)?
If you're planning to travel to Melbourne from Darwin Intl. (DRW), you can fly into Tullamarine (MEL) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Nhulunbuy (GOV), BNE (BNE), TSV (TSV) before reaching Melbourne. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) Melbourne Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
If you booked your Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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*Available to One Key members.