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Cairns, Queensland to Sydney, New South Wales from undefined105: 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
105-383
Recommended
route map
Distance: 1969 km
Duration: 4h 34m

See more options

Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
7h  47m
Estimated price
122-487
Company
Queensland Rail Travel, NSW TrainLink
Train
Average Duration
39h  57m
Estimated price
169-4118
Company
Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
47h  50m
Estimated price
196-269
Company
Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
44h  8m
Estimated price
213-372
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
28h  20m
Estimated price
300-450
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cairns to Sydney

Your journey from Cairns to Sydney offers a vivid contrast, with Cairns showcasing tropical rainforests and coral reefs, while Sydney dazzles with its iconic skyline and bustling urban life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Sydney

Sydney's neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and attractions for visitors.

Surry Hills
• Renowned for its vibrant café culture.
• Art galleries and boutiques line the streets.
Bondi Beach
• Famous for its stunning beach and surf culture.
• Numerous coastal walks with breathtaking views.
The Rocks
• Rich in history with charming cobbled streets.
• Hosts weekend markets and local artisan shops.

Best Times To Visit Sydney's Attractions

Timing your visits to Sydney's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Sydney Opera House
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Bondi Beach
Weekdays offer a quieter experience compared to weekends and holidays.
Taronga Zoo
Mid-mornings on weekdays lead to less foot traffic and better animal sightings.

Sydney Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Sydney enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Understanding the seasonal changes helps you plan your activities and wardrobe, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Sydney

Consider trying the famous Sydney Rock Oysters at a waterfront restaurant like Doyle's on the Beach, where the freshness of local seafood showcases the city’s coastal charm. This dish offers a departure from Cairns' tropical flavors, delivering a savory, briny experience paired with a vibrant atmosphere overlooking the ocean.

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 Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
110-550

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Newcastle (NTL)

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
110-600

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

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
170-650

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

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
95-490

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

Average Duration
6h 25m
Estimated price
230-800

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

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

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
95-490

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

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
95-490

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

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
95-490

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Newcastle (NTL)

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
110-600

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

Average Duration
6h 10m
Estimated price
110-600

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

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

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)

Average Duration
2h 58m
Estimated price
110-550

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

Average Duration
4h 50m
Estimated price
110-550

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

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

Train from Cairns Central Station to Roma Street

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

Train from Roma Street to Central Station

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

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
29h 5m
Estimated price
120-170

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Central Station, Sydney

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

Bus from Brisbane to Central Station

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
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 distance of 1509 miles. Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and diverse scenery along the way. 💰 Prices for the journey from Cairns to Sydney by car range from $300 to $450, offering flexibility to travelers with different budgets. Plan your trip accordingly and choose the best option that suits your preferences. 🌊 Explore the beauty of the Australian east coast as you drive for approximately 28 hours and 20 minutes from Cairns to vibrant Sydney. Immerse yourself in the culture, attractions, and endless adventures that await at your destination.
Average price
$300 - $450
🌿 Prepare for a leisurely trip spanning approximately 39 hours and 57 minutes, including necessary transfers along the way. Queensland Rail Travel operates the leg from Cairns, while NSW TrainLink brings you to your destination in Sydney. Enjoy the picturesque views as you traverse the landscapes from tropical north Queensland to the bustling city of Sydney. 💰 Ticket prices for the Cairns to Sydney train vary from $169 to $4118, offering options depending on your budget and preferred level of comfort. Sit back, relax, and soak in the diverse beauty of Australia as you journey by rail from the lush surroundings of Cairns to the vibrant attractions of Sydney.
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 convenient and time-efficient journey. The quickest direct flight takes just 2 hours and 55 minutes with options from airlines like Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Qantas. 🌏 Traveling from the tropical north to the bustling city in the south, a flight from Cairns to Sydney covers a distance of approximately 4 hours and 34 minutes. This seamless trip allows you to relax and enjoy the in-flight services provided by the airlines. 💸 The prices for flights between Cairns and Sydney can range from $105 to $383, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and schedule. Whether for business or leisure, flying between these two vibrant cities is a popular choice for both locals and tourists alike.
Departure Point
Cairns Airport
Arrival Point
Sydney Airport
🚌 Starting from Cairns Central Station, travelers can embark on a scenic bus journey to Sydney, with stops at Roma Street Stop 125 in Brisbane along the way. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 44 hours and 8 minutes. 🚌 Premier Motor Service operates the bus services departing from Cairns, while Greyhound Australia manages the arrivals at Sydney's Central Station. Passengers can expect a comfortable ride and efficient service throughout the 44-hour trip. 🚌 Ticket prices for the Cairns to Sydney bus route can range from $213 to $372, offering affordable options for those looking to explore the East Coast of Australia by bus.
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 in Australia is 1225 miles or 1508.9 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 39 hours and 57 minutes to travel by train, 7 hours and 41 minutes by taking a flight to Newcastle and then a train, 4 hours and 34 minutes by plane, 28 hours and 20 minutes by car, and 44 hours and 55 minutes by bus. These times may vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and other factors.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cairns to Sydney is to fly. It takes approximately 4 hours and 34 minutes and costs between $100 and $340. This option is both the quickest and cheapest way to reach Sydney from Cairns.
The prices for a train ticket between Cairns and Sydney can vary from $172 to $324. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Sydney and Cairns can range from $177 to $254. These prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the time of travel, class seating, and availability of promotions or discounts. It is advisable to check with specific transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Cairns to Sydney without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 1509 miles, and it would take around 28 hours and 20 minutes to drive. However, it is important to note that the cost of the trip can vary, with prices ranging from $300 to $450 for fuel, tolls, and other expenses. Keep in mind that this option may require careful planning and preparation for such a long journey.
To travel from Cairns to Sydney without a car, the best options are by train or by plane. Taking the train from Cairns to Sydney would be a long journey, taking approximately 39 hours and 57 minutes. The cost would be between $170 and $330. On the other hand, flying would be the fastest option, taking only 4 hours and 34 minutes with prices ranging from $100 to $340. It is also possible to take a bus, which would take around 44 hours and 55 minutes and cost between $170 and $260.
Yes, there is a link between Cairns and Sydney, but it involves transfers. There is no direct train from Cairns to Sydney, but there are services that depart from Cairns Central Station and transfer at Brisbane, with a total travel time of approximately 39h 57m. Similarly, there is no direct bus from Cairns to Sydney, but there are services that depart from Cairns Central Station, transfer at Brisbane, and arrive at Central Station, Forecourt, Coach Bay 1, with a total travel time of approximately 44h 55m.
The flight between Cairns and Sydney typically takes 2 hours and 55 minutes. The cost of the flight can range from $103 to $332, depending on various factors such as the time of booking and airline choice. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are many options for accommodation near Sydney. With 1365+ hotels available, you can find something to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at $77, offering a range of affordable and higher-end options. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly hostel, or a cozy bed and breakfast, there are plenty of choices for a comfortable stay near Sydney.