1map logoGo to main page

Gold Coast to Cairns from $120: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Gold Coast, Australia
to
Cairns, Australia

How to Get from Gold Coast to Cairns: 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.

$120 by busBest price
913 milesDistance
5h 28m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Gold Coast to Cairns 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
5h  28m
Estimated price
$99-446
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  45m
Estimated price
$93-398
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 913 miles
Duration: 5h 28m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
27h  28m
Estimated price
$116-4110
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
31h  32m
Estimated price
$126-178
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
32h  46m
Estimated price
$176-430
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
22h  7m
Estimated price
$240-350
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Gold Coast to Cairns

The journey from Gold Coast to Cairns presents a fascinating contrast, with the Gold Coast's vibrant beaches and surf culture giving way to Cairns' lush rainforests and gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cairns

Cairns features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Cairns Esplanade
• Stunning waterfront views and a vibrant boardwalk.
• Convenient access to restaurants, shops, and cultural events.
Port Douglas
• Laid-back atmosphere with gorgeous beaches nearby.
• Close to the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef.
Cairns City Center
• Bustling hub filled with shopping and nightlife options.
• Rich history showcased in local museums and galleries.

Best Times To Visit Cairns's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cairns attractions can make all the difference in your experience.

Great Barrier Reef
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and clearer waters.
Daintree Rainforest
Explore during the week for a quieter experience and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Cairns Esplanade
Evenings are ideal for a relaxing stroll when the area comes alive with locals and activities.

Cairns Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cairns enjoys a tropical climate, featuring warm temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from May to October, offers the most comfortable conditions for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying the Great Barrier Reef.

Dining Recommendation in Cairns

Experience the bold flavors of Cairns with a visit to Ochre Restaurant, where innovative dishes feature fresh, local ingredients like barramundi and kangaroo. This dining experience sets itself apart from the Gold Coast's beachside casual style, offering a relaxed ambiance that celebrates Australian cuisine with a modern twist.

Gold Coast - Cairns operators

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

Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Gold Coast (OOL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
AU$100-550

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 23m
Estimated price
AU$110-550

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

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
AU$170-750
Website
virginaustralia.com

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

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
AU$210-700

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 21m
Estimated price
AU$90-550
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Gold Coast (OOL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
AU$100-550

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

Average Duration
5h 26m
Estimated price
AU$100-550

Plane from Brisbane (BNE) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 21m
Estimated price
AU$70-550
Website
flybonza.com

Plane from Gold Coast (OOL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
AU$70-210
Train
Contact phone
13 12 30
Website
translink.com.au

Train from Helensvale station, platform 2 to International Airport Station

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
AU$21-25

Train from Helensvale station, platform 2 to Roma Street

Average Duration
1h 3m
Estimated price
AU$4-7
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Roma Street to Cairns Central Station

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

Bus from Surfers Paradise Coach Transit Centre, Beach Rd to Brisbane

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
AU$5-9
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
29h 30m
Estimated price
AU$120-170
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Brisbane to Cairns

Average Duration
30h
Estimated price
AU$170-420

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

Traveling between Gold Coast and Cairns 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 Gold Coast to Cairns covering a distance of 1902.2 km, taking you through diverse landscapes and picturesque scenery. 💸 Prices to journey from Gold Coast to Cairns by car typically range from $240 to $350, offering a budget-friendly option for those seeking adventure and exploration. 🌴 Arrive in Cairns after approximately 22 hours and 7 minutes of driving, where you'll be greeted by palm-fringed beaches, the Great Barrier Reef, and a vibrant city filled with tropical charm. Explore the wonders of this coastal destination and immerse yourself in the beauty of Far North Queensland.
Average price
$240 - $350
🚆 To travel from Gold Coast to Cairns by train, you will need to board a service at Cypress Avenue station, make a transfer at Helensvale station, and finally arrive at Cairns Central Station. The entire journey, including transfers, typically takes around 27 hours and 28 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the train journey from Gold Coast to Cairns can range from $116 to $4110, depending on the class and type of service you choose.
Departure Point
Helensvale station, platform 2
Arrival Point
Cairns Central Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train journey from Gold Coast to Cairns may include a dining car or trolley service offering light meals, snacks, and beverages. Be sure to check with the specific operator for the menu options, as some may offer regional specialties, such as Queensland seafood or local wines.
• The most common operators for this route are Queensland Rail (queenslandrailtravel.com.au) and Tilt Train (queenslandrailtravel.com.au). You can typically choose from various seating options: Economy Class, with standard seating; Business Class, offering more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments; and First Class, which provides the most comfort with premium services and dining.
• Upon arrival at Cairns Station, be aware that you can leave your luggage at the station for a few hours while you explore the area. The station has restrooms, and some facilities like showers may be available at nearby travel centers. To get to the city center quickly, take the local bus number 110, which runs every 30 minutes and will take you directly to the main areas of the city.
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient trip from Gold Coast to Cairns by catching a direct flight that only takes 2 hours and 25 minutes from Gold Coast Airport to Cairns Airport. Airlines like Bonza, Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar provide flights on this route. 🌴 Enjoy a smooth journey that lasts just under 5 and a half hours by plane from Gold Coast to Cairns. Whether you're traveling for leisure or business, the flight offers a comfortable and efficient way to reach your destination in Northern Queensland. 💸 Prices for flights between Cairns and Gold Coast can range from $99 to $446, giving you the flexibility to choose a fare that suits your budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Gold Coast Airport
Arrival Point
Cairns Airport
🌴 The total travel time from Gold Coast to Cairns via bus is approximately 31 hours and 32 minutes. 🎟️ Prices for the bus ride between Gold Coast and Cairns can range from $126 to $178, offering a budget-friendly option for those looking to explore the coast of Queensland by land.
Departure Point
Surfers Paradise Coach Transit Centre, Beach Rd station
Arrival Point
Cairns Central Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Gold Coast to Cairns.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Gold Coast and Cairns is approximately 1469.3 km by air and 1902.9 km by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 27 hours and 28 minutes to reach Cairns from Gold Coast. By combining a train and a flight, the travel time can be reduced to about 6 hours and 45 minutes. By plane, the fastest option, it takes around 5 hours and 26 minutes. Alternatively, driving by car can take approximately 22 hours and 7 minutes, while traveling by bus can take up to 31 hours and 32 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Gold Coast to Cairns is by bus, which costs around $120-$180 and takes approximately 31 hours and 32 minutes. This option, however, is time-consuming. If you are looking for a more time-efficient option, flying is the best choice. It costs between $95 and $390 and takes around 5 hours and 26 minutes to reach Cairns from Gold Coast.
The price range for a train journey from Gold Coast to Cairns is between $116 and $250. For a bus journey from Cairns to Gold Coast, the prices range from $125 to $178.
To travel from Gold Coast to Cairns without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 1902.2 km. It usually takes around 22 hours and 7 minutes to complete the journey by car. The prices for this mode of transportation range from $240 to $350, depending on the rental company and vehicle chosen.
To travel from Gold Coast to Cairns without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 27 hours and 28 minutes and costs between $110 and $250. Another convenient option is to fly, which takes around 5 hours and 26 minutes and costs between $95 and $390. Alternatively, there is a bus service available, taking approximately 31 hours and 32 minutes and costing between $120 and $180.
There is no direct train or bus link between Gold Coast and Cairns. The train journey takes approximately 27 hours 28 minutes, with transfers at Helensvale and Brisbane. The bus journey is even longer, with a travel time of approximately 31 hours 32 minutes, including transfers in Brisbane.
The flight duration between Gold Coast and Cairns is typically 2 hours and 25 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $99 to $386.
There are numerous accommodation options available in Cairns. With over 711 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Cairns start at $73, making it accessible for various budgets.