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Cairns, Queensland to Adelaide, South Australia from AU$155: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cairns, Australia
to
Adelaide, Australia

How to Get from Cairns to Adelaide: 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.

$155 - PlaneBest price
2985 kmDistance
4h 42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Adelaide 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  42m
Estimated price
AU$155-510
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  42m
Estimated price
AU$155-510
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2985 km
Duration: 4h 42m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
43h  19m
Estimated price
AU$258-527
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
58h  18m
Estimated price
AU$429-6618
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
34h  18m
Estimated price
AU$1551-1552
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
82h  22m
Estimated price
AU$2215-8531
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
99h  3m
Estimated price
AU$2227-1550
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Traveling From Cairns to Adelaide

The journey from Cairns to Adelaide offers a stunning contrast, taking you from the lush tropical landscapes of Far North Queensland to the vibrant city life and wine regions of South Australia.

Best Neighbourhoods in Adelaide

Adelaide boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Glenelg
• Stunning beachfront with vibrant café culture.
• Close to the Adelaide Metro for easy access.
North Adelaide
• Historic charm with beautiful parks and gardens.
• Home to trendy boutiques and gourmet dining options.
Central Market District
• Famous for fresh produce and local delicacies.
• A hub for food lovers and cultural events.

Best Times To Visit Adelaide's Attractions

Timing your visits to Adelaide's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Adelaide Zoo
Weekdays in the morning offer a quieter atmosphere to observe animals.
South Australian Museum
Late afternoons during weekdays attract fewer visitors, allowing for a more relaxed exploration.
Adelaide Central Market
Visit early Tuesday or Wednesday for a less crowded shopping and eating experience.

Adelaide Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Adelaide enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a year-round travel destination. Late spring and autumn are often ideal times to visit, as the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller, enhancing your overall experience.

Dining Recommendation in Adelaide

For a true taste of Adelaide, try the iconic South Australian dish, the Coffin Bay oysters, known for their briny sweetness and fresh flavors. The dining experience here focuses on local produce and wines, offering a refined atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the tropical influences found in Cairns.

Cairns - Adelaide operators

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

Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Cairns to Adelaide

Average Duration
3h 16m
Estimated price
AU$1557-1558

Plane from Cairns via Melbourne to Adelaide

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
AU$1556-1559

Plane from Cairns via Brisbane to Adelaide

Average Duration
6h 23m
Estimated price
AU$1556-1559

Plane from Cairns via Townsville to Adelaide

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
AU$1556-1559
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Cairns to Adelaide

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
AU$1557-1559

Plane from Cairns via Melbourne to Adelaide

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
AU$1557-1559

Plane from Cairns via Brisbane to Adelaide

Average Duration
7h 10m
Estimated price
AU$1557-1559
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Cairns to Adelaide

Average Duration
3h 12m
Estimated price
AU$5100-5101

Plane from Cairns via Melbourne to Adelaide

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
AU$5100-5101

Plane from Cairns via Brisbane to Adelaide

Average Duration
6h 25m
Estimated price
AU$5100-5101
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Cairns Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$5102-5103
Contact phone
131 500
Website
transportnsw.info

Train from Roma Street to Central Station

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
AU$4290-5109
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Sydney Central Station to Adelaide Parklands

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$4293-66180
Contact phone
1800 703 357
Website
journeybeyondrail.com.au

Train from Brisbane to Adelaide

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$66183-66189
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$2580-1557
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Brisbane to Central Station

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
AU$4291-2581
Contact phone
1300 730 740
Website
fireflyexpress.com.au

Bus from Central Station to Albury station

Average Duration
7h 55m
Estimated price
AU$2585-5108
Contact phone
1800 800 007
Website
vline.com.au

Bus from Albury to 85 Franklin St

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
AU$2586-2587

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

Traveling between Cairns and Adelaide 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 Adelaide, covering a distance of 1855 miles, with diverse landscapes and attractions along the way. 💸 The cost of the journey varies between $370 to $550, providing budget-friendly options for travelers seeking adventure and exploration. ⏱️ Prepare for a journey lasting approximately 34 hours and 18 minutes, filled with scenic routes, pit stops, and the excitement of discovering Australia's natural beauty at your own pace.
Average price
$370 - $550
🌿 Enjoy the scenic views and diverse landscapes as you travel across the east coast of Australia on this 2-day and 18-hour train ride. Experience the comfort and convenience of train travel while making unforgettable memories along the way. 💸 Prices for the Cairns to Adelaide train ticket range from $429 to $6618, depending on the class and amenities chosen. Whether you opt for a more budget-friendly option or a luxurious experience, the train journey offers a unique way to explore the vast beauty of Australia.
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
Adelaide Parklands station
🛫 Flying from Cairns to Adelaide is a convenient option with a quick direct flight that only takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes. ✈️ The flight duration between Cairns and Adelaide is approximately 4 hours and 42 minutes, with ticket prices typically ranging from $155 to $510, offering flexibility for travelers based on their preferences and budget.
Departure Point
Cairns Airport
Arrival Point
Adelaide Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Cairns to Adelaide, travelers can embark on a scenic journey that includes transfers at major stations like Brisbane and Albury. 🌿 The bus services are operated by Premier Motor Service and V/Line, offering a comfortable and convenient option for those seeking an adventurous way to traverse the vast distance between the two Australian cities. 🌞 Enjoy a multi-day bus expedition filled with breathtaking landscapes and diverse terrain as you make your way from the tropical north of Cairns to the vibrant city of Adelaide in the south.
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
85 Franklin St station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Adelaide.

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The distance between Cairns and Adelaide is approximately 1328 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: It takes around 42 hours to reach Adelaide from Cairns by train. If you take a bus followed by a train, it takes approximately 44 hours. By plane, it takes about 5 hours and 8 minutes. The road distance is 1855 miles, and it takes around 34 hours and 18 minutes to drive from Adelaide to Cairns.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cairns to Adelaide is to fly. It takes approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes and can cost between $140 and $310. This option is both the fastest and most affordable way to make the journey between the two cities. Alternative transportation methods such as train, bus, or driving may take considerably longer and potentially be more expensive.
The prices of a train ticket between Cairns and Adelaide vary from $422 to $1724, depending on the class and booking options. The prices of a bus ticket from Adelaide to Cairns range from $222 to $449, with prices depending on the operator and booking time. It is recommended to check with specific airlines or bus/train operators for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for your desired travel dates.
To travel from Cairns to Adelaide without using public transportation, the most straightforward option would be to drive. The road distance between Cairns and Adelaide is 1855 miles, and it typically takes around 34 hours and 18 minutes to drive. The price for a car rental varies, but it generally ranges from $370 to $550. This option allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore different places along the way.
To travel from Cairns to Adelaide without a car, the best option is to take a train via Sydney. This journey takes approximately 2 days and 19 hours and costs between $420 and $1,800. Another option is to fly, which takes around 5 hours and 8 minutes and costs between $140 and $310. Alternatively, you could take a bus, which takes approximately 2 days and 20 hours and costs between $220 and $450.
Yes, there is a link between Cairns and Adelaide. However, there is no direct train or bus route between the two cities. The train journey from Cairns to Adelaide takes approximately 2 days and 19 hours, with transfers in Brisbane and Sydney. Similarly, the bus journey takes around 2 days and 20 hours, with transfers in Brisbane, Sydney, and Albury. Traveling by plane is the fastest option, taking approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes. The road distance between Cairns and Adelaide is 1855 miles, and it takes about 34 hours and 18 minutes to drive the entire distance.
The flight between Cairns and Adelaide typically takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary from $144 to $308. It is worth noting that these prices are subject to change depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Adelaide with over 755 hotels available. Prices for hotels start at $57, offering a range of options to suit different budgets. Visitors can choose from a variety of hotels, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly accommodations, ensuring there is something to suit every traveler's needs.

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