To get around in Cairns, you can use a variety of transportation options, including taxis, buses, trains, and rental cars, as well as take advantage of the city's walkable and bike-friendly downtown area.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Cairns is a major tourist destination in Australia, and as such, it has a well-developed transportation network. The city is served by Cairns Airport, which is located about 7 kilometers from the city center. The airport receives direct flights from major Australian cities, including Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, as well as from some international destinations, such as New Zealand and Southeast Asia. If you're coming from outside of Australia, you may need to fly into a major hub like Brisbane or Sydney and then take a domestic flight to Cairns.
In addition to flying, Cairns can also be reached by car or bus. The city is located on the Bruce Highway, which connects it to other major cities in Queensland, such as Brisbane and Townsville. There are also several bus companies that operate daily services to and from Cairns, including Greyhound Australia and Premier Motor Service. If you're coming from nearby cities, such as Port Douglas or the Atherton Tablelands, you can also take a shuttle or taxi service.
Domestic Flights
If you're traveling within Australia, you can use domestic airlines such as Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar to get to Cairns. These airlines offer frequent flights from major cities, and you can often find good deals if you book in advance. Some of the main routes to Cairns include flights from Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, as well as from other regional cities in Queensland. When booking domestic flights, it's a good idea to compare prices across different airlines and to consider flying into a nearby airport, such as the Great Barrier Reef Airport in Hamilton Island, if you're planning to visit the surrounding area.
Trains & Rail
Cairns has a limited rail network, but you can take a train to the city from Brisbane on the Spirit of Queensland service, which is operated by Queensland Rail. The journey takes around 24 hours, depending on the route and the type of service you choose. There are also some tourist trains that operate in the area, such as the Kuranda Scenic Railway, which runs from Cairns to the nearby town of Kuranda. This train journey takes around 2 hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and waterfalls.
Buses & Coaches
If you're traveling on a budget or prefer to see the scenery, you can take a bus or coach to Cairns. There are several companies that operate daily services to and from the city, including Greyhound Australia and Premier Motor Service. These buses often stop at nearby towns and cities, such as Port Douglas and the Atherton Tablelands, and can be a good way to see the surrounding area. The journey from Brisbane to Cairns takes around 24 hours, depending on the route and the type of service you choose.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Cairns | $2-$5 | Operated by Sunbus, with frequent services throughout the city |
| Taxi | Cairns | $2-$5/km | Available at taxi ranks or by booking in advance |
| Ride-Hailing | Cairns | $5-$10 | Operated by Uber and local alternatives |
| Bicycle | Cairns | $10-$20/day | Available for rent from several shops in the city |
| Walking | Cairns | free | The city center is walkable, with many shops and attractions within a short distance |
Driving
- To drive in Cairns, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driver's license.
- The road conditions in and around Cairns are generally good, with well-maintained highways and scenic drives.
- Fuel costs in Australia are relatively high, with petrol prices averaging around $1.50 per liter.
- If you're planning to rent a car, it's a good idea to book in advance and to compare prices across different companies.
- Some common hazards to watch out for when driving in Cairns include wildlife, such as kangaroos and wallabies, and heavy rainfall during the wet season.
- It's also a good idea to take regular breaks and to drive safely, especially on long journeys or in unfamiliar areas.
Transport Tips
- Be sure to research and book your transportation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Consider purchasing a Cairns Transport Card, which can be used to pay for public transportation and other services.
- Always wear a seatbelt and follow local traffic laws when driving or riding in a vehicle.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots.
- Consider downloading transportation apps, such as Uber or Google Maps, to help you navigate the city.
- Don't forget to check the weather forecast before heading out, especially during the wet season.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and try to learn a few basic phrases in the local language, such as G'day (hello) and thank you.