Car Rental Townsville Downtown

There are loads of adventures to be had and must-see attractions awaiting you from the moment you arrive in tropical downtown Townsville. Perched on the edge of the Coral Sea, Townsville makes the perfect springboard to explore the extraordinary beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, and the natural wonders of the many beautiful islands in its vivid blue depths. Snorkel, dive, sail, swim, float, cruise or take a scenic flight over and around these idyllic waters.

While surrounded by lush ancient rainforests, Townsville offers a great range of local entertainment, and is only a short drive from the dry, rugged landscapes that are also quintessentially Queensland. Head west to discover outback heritage towns like the charmingly preserved Charter Towers, or north to take in the coastal tropics and mangroves. Gathered in one visitor-friendly escape package, Townsville presents the holidaymaker with a wealth of wonderful contrasts.

When downtown, experience the vibrant local markets, the amazing aquarium, esplanade and tropical museum; or sample the bars, boutiques and eateries down buzzing City Lane. There’s also restored Federation-style architecture, al fresco culinary experiences, plus a number of unique botanical gardens (we recommend the Queens and The Palmetum) located within 20 minutes of the city centre. And if you’re interested in meeting some iconic Australian animals, head to the Billabong Sanctuary.

Another popular activity to put on your list is climbing Castle Hill – the imposing red granite monolith at the heart of town – where you can enjoy a 360-degree vista of North Queensland’s shining jewels. You’ll find that Townsville has an incredible agenda of spectacular treats ready to be explored at your leisure by hire car.

Get to know Townsville in your hire care

Townsville is brimming with youthful energy and a bustling vibe. This is largely thanks to a lively student population and a steady stream of backpackers. It’s also a hub for fly-in fly-out miners and the defence forces, being Queensland’s main garrison town. Getting entertainment and nightlife right is certainly a priority in Townsville.

For some who like it hot, this major North Queensland city averages 320 days of sunshine a year, and keeps the thermostat steady in the high 20s. These balmy conditions make it perfect for ambling along The Strand – Townsville’s popular seaside promenade, fringed by palm trees and home to the jetty, water parks, fabulous eateries and Friday night markets from May to December. You’ll also want to check out the Cotters Market on Sundays, the largest arts and craft and fresh produce markets in Queensland’s north.

Go upriver and you’ll find the Riverway Complex boasting two swimming lagoons, fine food, parklands and promenades. It’s the place for year-round events and celebrations, from cultural festivals to New Year’s Eve. Or if you’re looking for underwater enchantments, visit the fabulous Reef HQ near Townsville’s culture precinct. Renowned as the largest living coral reef aquarium in the world. It’s also a great primer before you head off to the Great Barrier Reef, and you don’t even have to get wet! 

Go deep beyond the surface of Townsville in your hire car

A key drawcard of Townsville is, naturally, the Great Barrier Reef – a 2,300-kilometre-long majestic marine environment easily accessible from here. This colourful living wonderland even has a museum beneath the surface of the Coral Sea. 

Visit the sculptures and singular installations at the Museum of Underwater Art. Artistry combines with education here as you learn about this precious UNESCO-listed ecosystem and reef conservation. For those seeking the most immersive experience, we recommend taking a 2-hour boat journey to the museum’s largest artwork, the Coral Greenhouse. Scuba dive to witness this environmental artwork on the ocean floor, or book a ‘Snorkel and Stay’ package for deeper engagement in this subterranean scene.

Island hopping is easy from Townsville and the ferries are a great way to take you on day trips to their stunning shores. The rugged seclusion of Magnetic Island is a mere 20 minutes away. Take a short chopper flight to experience the exclusive calm and immaculate beauty of Orpheus Island. A haven for snorkelling enthusiasts, its waters are swimming with green turtles, reef sharks and sea rays. Another hour away and you’ve arrived at Hinchinbrook Island with its waterfalls and rainforest trails. There’s even a camping ground (limited to 40 people) to extend your adventure. 

You’ll love embracing the bountiful coastal delights and enchanting inland attractions in your hire car from downtown Townsville.