Getting to Cairns: Travel Guide by Air, Road, and Rail

Getting to Cairns: Your Gateway to Far North Queensland

About Getting to Cairns: Quick and Easy Options

By Air: Cairns Airport is a major gateway, offering direct domestic flights from Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane and international flights from destinations such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tokyo.
Driving : A scenic road trip along the Bruce Highway or the Great Barrier Reef Drive is a fantastic way to reach Cairns. Along the way, you can explore stunning coastal views and charming towns.
By Train: The Spirit of Queensland train connects Brisbane to Cairns, offering a relaxing and picturesque journey through Queensland’s diverse landscapes.
Kuranda Scenic Railway: For a more adventurous and scenic route, take the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway, which weaves through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and rugged mountains.
Cruising: Many international and domestic cruise lines include Cairns in their itineraries, providing a stylish and relaxing way to arrive.
By Bus: Long-distance buses like Greyhound Australia offer affordable and comfortable options, with stops in key towns.
From Nearby Islands: If you’re exploring the reef, ferries and boats connect nearby islands like Fitzroy Island and Green Island, making combining your travel with adventure easy.

Discover Getting to Cairns

Cairns in Far North Queensland is a major travel destination for visitors exploring the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and other tropical wonders. Here’s a comprehensive guide to getting to Cairns, whether by air, road, or rail.

By Air

Flying is the most convenient and fastest way, especially if you come from major cities within Australia or overseas.

Cairns Airport (CNS)

Cairns Airport is the main gateway to the region, located just 7 kilometres (about 4 miles) north of the city centre. The airport serves both domestic and international flights.

Domestic Flights: Direct flights are available from major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
International Flights: Cairns Airport also connects to several international destinations, including direct flights from New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

Airport Transfers: Once you arrive at Cairns Airport, you have several transportation options to your accommodation or the city centre.

Taxis: Taxis are available outside both the domestic and international terminals.
Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and other ride-sharing services operate in Cairns.
Airport Shuttle Services: Many hotels offer shuttle services or allow you to book a seat on a shared airport shuttle.
Car Rentals: Major car rental companies are available at the airport, allowing you to explore Cairns and its surroundings at your own pace.

By Road

Driving to Cairns can be a scenic and adventurous way to experience the beauty of Queensland, especially if you’re travelling from within the state or from nearby regions.

Bruce Highway: The Bruce Highway is the main route connecting Brisbane to Cairns. The drive is approximately 1,700 kilometres (about 1,056 miles) and can take around 20–24 hours, making it ideal for a road trip with several stops.

Driving Tips

Plan your stops to explore attractions such as the Sunshine Coast, Fraser Island, Airlie Beach, and Townsville.
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry essential supplies, especially if driving through remote areas.
Be aware of local wildlife, especially when driving at dawn or dusk.

By Rail

Travelling to Cairns by train offers a relaxed and scenic journey, allowing you to take in the diverse landscapes of Queensland.

Spirit of Queensland: Queensland Rail runs the Spirit of Queensland, a cutting-edge train service between Brisbane and Cairns. The journey takes approximately 24 hours and offers several classes of travel, including RailBed and Premium Economy.

Highlights

Comfortable seating and sleeping options.
On-board dining car serving meals and refreshments.
Panoramic views of Queensland’s coastal and inland scenery.

Booking Tickets: Tickets for the Spirit of Queensland can be booked online through Queensland Rail’s website or at major train stations. Booking is recommended, especially during peak travel periods.

By Bus

Long-distance bus services are another option for getting to Cairns, providing a budget-friendly and comfortable travel experience.

Greyhound Australia: Greyhound Australia offers daily services to Cairns from major cities and towns along the east coast of Queensland. The buses have modern amenities, including reclining seats, air conditioning, and on-board restrooms.

Premier Motor Service: Premier Motor Service also operates routes offering an affordable alternative with several stops.

Booking Tickets: Tickets for bus services can be booked online through the respective company’s website or at bus terminals.

FAQs: How to Get to here

What is the easiest way to get to Cairns?

The easiest way to get to Cairns is by air. Cairns Airport offers direct flights from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane and international flights from destinations including Singapore, Hong Kong, and Tokyo. Once you land, the city centre is just a 10-15 minute drive away.

Can I drive to Cairns from other parts of Australia?

Absolutely! Cairns is well-connected by road. The Bruce Highway links Cairns to Brisbane and other Queensland cities, offering a scenic road trip with plenty of picturesque stops. It’s a great option if you love exploring at your own pace.

Are there train services to Cairns?

Queensland Rail’s Spirit of Queensland connects Brisbane to Cairns with a comfortable and scenic journey. For a shorter but iconic trip, the Kuranda Scenic Railway offers a stunning ride through lush rainforests and waterfalls.

Can I get to Cairns by cruise?

Yes, Cairns is a popular destination for international and domestic cruises. Many cruise ships dock at the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal near the city centre. It’s a unique and relaxing way to arrive, especially if you combine your trip with other destinations.

Are there budget-friendly ways to travel to Cairns?

For budget travellers, local buses like Greyhound offer affordable options with comfortable seating and frequent stops. Additionally, booking flights in advance often secures great deals, especially with budget airlines.

Exploring North Queensland

Once you arrive, you’ll enjoy many attractions and activities. Cairns offers everything from exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest to experiencing the vibrant local culture and cuisine.

Plan your journey and embark on an unforgettable adventure in Far North Queensland. 🌴🌊✈️

For more information and to plan your trip, visit CairnsAustralia.com.