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Airlie Beach, Queensland to Cairns, Queensland from $43: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Airlie Beach, Australia
to
Cairns, Australia

How to Get from Airlie Beach 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.

$43 by trainBest price
303 milesDistance
3h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Airlie Beach 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
3h  17m
Estimated price
$269-781
Recommended
Company
Queensland Rail Travel
Train
Average Duration
11h  29m
Estimated price
$43-1503
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 303 miles
Duration: 3h 17m

See more options

Company
Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
10h 
Estimated price
$45-140
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
7h  59m
Estimated price
$75-120
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Airlie Beach to Cairns

The journey from Airlie Beach to Cairns offers you the chance to transition from a laid-back island vibe to the bustling atmosphere of a vibrant city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cairns

Cairns features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Cairns City Centre
• Offers vibrant nightlife and dining options.
• Close to the waterfront and major attractions.
Port Douglas
• Beaches with stunning views and relaxed atmosphere.
• Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef adventures.
Palm Cove
• Renowned for its beautiful beach and palm-fringed esplanade.
• Ideal for luxury resorts and spa retreats.

Best Times To Visit Cairns's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Cairns experience.

Great Barrier Reef
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and serene waters.
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Weekdays are quieter, providing a more enjoyable journey through the rainforest.
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Mornings are best for a peaceful swim and fewer visitors.

Cairns Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cairns features a tropical climate with warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons, making it an appealing destination year-round. The dry season, from May to October, is ideal for outdoor activities, while the wet season offers lush scenery and fewer tourists, allowing for a unique travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Cairns

Sample the vibrant flavors of Cairns at Ochre Restaurant, known for its focus on native Australian ingredients and innovative dishes. This culinary experience, featuring options like kangaroo and barramundi paired with tropical garnishes, contrasts beautifully with the more laid-back seafood offerings found in Airlie Beach.

Airlie Beach - Cairns operators

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

Plane
Website
skytrans.com.au

Plane from Proserpine (PPP) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
85-320
Website
flexflight.dk

Plane from Proserpine (PPP) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
85-320
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://queenslandrailtravel.com.au/

Train from Proserpine to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
9h 42m
Estimated price
40-1500
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Airlie Beach to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
45-70
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Airlie Beach to Cairns

Average Duration
10h 10m
Estimated price
60-140

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

Traveling between Airlie Beach 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 a scenic road trip from Airlie Beach to Cairns, covering a distance of 626.0 km, with the journey taking around 7 hours and 59 minutes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $75 to $120 for the drive from Airlie Beach to Cairns, providing budget-friendly choices for travelers.
Average price
$75 - $120
🚆 The scenic train journey from Airlie Beach to Cairns takes approximately 11 hours and 29 minutes, offering passengers beautiful views of the tropical Queensland landscape along the way. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride between Airlie Beach and Cairns can range from as low as $43 to as high as $1503, depending on the class of service and availability.
🛫 Discover the tropical beauty of Queensland with a quick flight from Airlie Beach to Cairns. The direct flight from Proserpine Airport to Cairns Airport only takes 1 hour and 25 minutes. 🌴 Choose between airlines like Skytrans and FlexFlight ApS for your journey to Cairns, offering convenient flights from Proserpine Airport. Within just over 3 hours, you'll find yourself in the vibrant city of Cairns, ready to explore all it has to offer. 💸 Prices for flights between Airlie Beach and Cairns can vary from $269 to $781, so you can select an option that fits your budget while enjoying a seamless and efficient travel experience.
Departure Point
Proserpine Airport
Arrival Point
Cairns Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Airlie Beach to Cairns, with services departing twice daily and taking approximately 10 hours. 💰 Ticket prices for this relaxing and convenient bus ride typically range from $45 to $140, offering an affordable and hassle-free way to explore these two vibrant QLD destinations.
Departure Point
Airlie Beach station
Arrival Point
Cairns Central Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Airlie Beach to Cairns.

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The distance between Airlie Beach and Cairns is 303 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: The train journey from Airlie Beach to Cairns takes approximately 11 hours and 29 minutes. Alternatively, the plane journey can be completed in around 3 hours and 12 minutes. If traveling by car, it takes around 7 hours and 59 minutes to reach Airlie Beach from Cairns, while the bus journey takes approximately 10 hours.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Airlie Beach to Cairns is by train, with prices ranging from $40 to $90. However, this option does take longer, with a travel time of about 11 hours and 29 minutes. If saving time is a priority, flying is the most time-efficient option, taking only 3 hours and 12 minutes. However, the cost for this mode of transportation is higher, ranging from $200 to $600. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
The price of a train ticket from Airlie Beach to Cairns can range from $42 to $88, depending on the class and amenities offered. On the other hand, the cost of a bus ticket from Cairns to Airlie Beach can vary from $45 to $190, depending on the type of bus and the level of comfort provided. It's important to compare prices and check for any promotions or discounts to find the best deal for your travel needs and budget.
To travel from Airlie Beach to Cairns without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 389 miles. The journey usually takes around 7 hours and 59 minutes. The cost of this road trip can range from $75 to $120, depending on various factors such as vehicle type, fuel prices, and tolls.
To travel from Airlie Beach to Cairns without a car, the best options are by bus or by flying. Taking a bus is the most affordable option, with prices ranging from $45 to $190 and a travel time of 10 hours. If you prefer a faster option, you can fly which takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes, but prices for flights range from $200 to $600. Another alternative is to take the train, which costs between $40 and $90 and has a travel time of 11 hours and 29 minutes.
Yes, there is a direct link between Airlie Beach and Cairns. Premier Motor Service operates a bus service that departs from Airlie Beach and arrives at Cairns Central Station. These buses run twice daily, every day, and the journey takes approximately 10 hours. This provides a convenient and direct option for travelers looking to go from Airlie Beach to Cairns.
The flight from Airlie Beach to Cairns typically takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary, with prices ranging from $207 to $559. It is important to note that prices may vary depending on factors such as airline, time of booking, and travel dates.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Cairns as there are over 712 hotels available in Cairns City. Prices for hotels start at $73, giving you a range of options to suit your budget. Whether you prefer a luxury resort or a budget-friendly hostel, you'll be able to find something that meets your needs in Cairns.