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Cairns to Sydney from AU$105: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cairns, Australia
to
Sydney, Australia

How to Get from Cairns to Sydney: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$105 - PlaneBest price
1969 kmDistance
4h 34m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Sydney with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  34m
Estimated price
AU$105-383
Recommended
route map
Distance: 1969 km
Duration: 4h 34m

See more options

Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
7h  47m
Estimated price
AU$122-487
Company
Queensland Rail Travel, NSW TrainLink
Train
Average Duration
39h  57m
Estimated price
AU$169-4118
Company
Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
47h  50m
Estimated price
AU$196-269
Company
Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
44h  8m
Estimated price
AU$213-372
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
28h  20m
Estimated price
AU$300-450
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Traveling From Cairns to Sydney

The journey from Cairns to Sydney offers contrasting experiences, with Cairns showcasing tropical rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef while Sydney boasts a vibrant urban landscape and iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sydney

Sydney features diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Darling Harbour
• Home to numerous restaurants and shops.
• Features stunning waterfront views and attractions.
Bondi Beach
• Famous for its iconic beach and surf culture.
• Offers vibrant cafes and a scenic coastal walk.
Newtown
• Known for eclectic shops and street art.
• Boasts a thriving food scene with global flavors.

Best Times To Visit Sydney's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience at Sydney's key sights.

Sydney Opera House
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and stunning sunrises.
Bondi Beach
Weekdays in the off-season provide a calmer beach experience.
Royal Botanic Garden
Late afternoon offers peaceful strolls and beautiful light for photos.

Sydney Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sydney enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it an appealing destination year-round. Understanding seasonal variations can help you choose the best times to explore outdoor attractions and events.

Dining Recommendation in Sydney

Explore the vibrant atmosphere at Sydney's acclaimed restaurant, Quay, where the elegant dishes showcase innovative techniques and local Australian ingredients, such as their famous snow egg dessert. Unlike the fresh seafood focus of Cairns, Sydney's culinary scene intertwines diverse flavors and creative presentations that elevate your dining experience.

Cairns - Sydney operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cairns and Sydney, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
AU$110-550

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Newcastle (NTL)

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
AU$110-600

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD) via Brisbane

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
AU$170-650

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD) via Gold Coast

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
AU$95-490

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Newcastle (NTL) via Brisbane

Average Duration
6h 25m
Estimated price
AU$230-800

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Newcastle (NTL) via Melbourne

Average Duration
6h 10m
Estimated price
AU$110-600
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
AU$95-490

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD) via Brisbane

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
AU$95-490

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD) via Gold Coast

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
AU$95-490

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Newcastle (NTL)

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
AU$110-600

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Newcastle (NTL) via Melbourne

Average Duration
6h 10m
Estimated price
AU$110-600

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Newcastle (NTL) via Brisbane

Average Duration
6h 25m
Estimated price
AU$110-600
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration
2h 58m
Estimated price
AU$110-550

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD) via Brisbane

Average Duration
4h 50m
Estimated price
AU$110-550

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Newcastle (NTL) via Brisbane

Average Duration
5h 13m
Estimated price
AU$170-700
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Cairns Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
24h 45m
Estimated price
AU$110-4100
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Roma Street to Central Station

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
AU$55-90
Bus
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
29h 5m
Estimated price
AU$120-170

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Central Station, Sydney

Average Duration
17h 45m
Estimated price
AU$70-100
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Brisbane to Central Station

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
AU$85-200

Cairns to Sydney: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cairns and Sydney offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Cairns to Sydney, covering a picturesque distance of 2428.5 km over stunning Australian landscapes. 💰 Explore the flexibility of travel costs, with car trip prices from Cairns to Sydney ranging between $300 to $450. 🌅 Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you traverse from tropical Cairns to vibrant Sydney, experiencing the beauty of Australia's East Coast. With a travel time of approximately 28 hours and 20 minutes, this journey promises unforgettable memories and endless adventures.
Average price
$300 - $450
🌿 The 39-hour adventure includes transfers at Roma Street before arriving at Sydney's Central Station. 💰 Ticket prices range from $169 to $4118, offering options for every budget.
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
Central Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The primary operator for the train trip from Cairns to Sydney is Queensland Rail, which offers a range of onboard catering services. You can enjoy meals prepared by local chefs, and they have a restaurant-café car offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus, accommodating various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Pre-booking meals is advisable if you have specific dietary requirements.
• On the Queensland Rail's Travel trains, you have three seating options: First Class (more spacious with luxurious amenities), Business Class (comfortable with additional legroom), and Economy Class (affordable with basic amenities). Consider First Class for a more relaxing experience, especially if you are on a longer journey.
• After arriving at Sydney's Central Station, you'll find that there's a left luggage service available, allowing you to store your bags securely while you explore. The station provides public restrooms, and while showers are not typically available, nearby hotels may offer access for a small fee. When you're ready to head to the city center, take the T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line from Central Station to Town Hall Station—this is the fastest option, taking around 3-5 minutes.
🛫 Flying from Cairns to Sydney is a quick and convenient journey with a direct flight duration of just 2 hours and 55 minutes. Airlines like Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Qantas provide various options for this route. 🌏 Travelers can enjoy a smooth transition from the tropical paradise of Cairns to the bustling city of Sydney in approximately 4 hours and 34 minutes by plane. 💸 The cost of a flight between Sydney and Cairns can range from $105 to $383, making it accessible for a wide range of budgets.
Departure Point
Cairns Airport
Arrival Point
Sydney Airport
🚌 The journey from Cairns to Sydney by bus is an extensive route with multiple transfers, taking approximately 44 hours and 8 minutes. 🛤️ Bus services depart from Cairns Central Station and make stops at Roma Street Stop 125 in Transit Centre in Brisbane before reaching Sydney's Central Station. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Cairns and Sydney can range from $213 to $372, providing budget-friendly transportation options for travelers.
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
Central Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Sydney.

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The distance between Cairns and Sydney is approximately 1971.4 km by air and 2428.3 km by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. The fastest option is by plane, taking approximately 4 hours and 34 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train, which takes around 39 hours and 57 minutes, or a combination of a flight to Newcastle and then a train, which takes approximately 7 hours and 41 minutes. Driving by car takes approximately 28 hours and 20 minutes, while a bus journey can take around 44 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cairns to Sydney is to fly. Flying takes approximately 4 hours and 34 minutes and costs between $100 and $340.
The prices for traveling from Cairns to Sydney by train typically range from $172 to $324. The prices for taking a bus between Sydney and Cairns vary from $177 to $254.
To travel from Cairns to Sydney without using public transportation, you can choose to drive the distance of 2428.5 km which takes about 28h 20m. Renting a car is an option and the prices can range from $300 to $450.
To travel from Cairns to Sydney without a car, the best option is to take a train, which takes approximately 39 hours and 57 minutes and costs between $170 and $330. Another option is to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 34 minutes and costs between $100 and $340. Additionally, there is a bus option available, which takes about 44 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $170 and $260.
There is no direct train or bus link between Cairns and Sydney. However, there are train services that require transfers in Brisbane, with a total journey time of approximately 39 hours and 57 minutes. Similarly, there are bus services that also require transfers in Brisbane, with a total journey time of approximately 44 hours and 55 minutes. Both train and bus services arrive at Central Station in Sydney.
The flight between Cairns and Sydney typically takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between $103 and $332, depending on factors such as the airline and the time of booking.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Sydney. With over 1365 hotels to choose from, there is something to fit every budget and preference. Prices start at $77 per night, ensuring a range of affordable options.