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Sydney, New South Wales to Port Douglas, Queensland from $126: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sydney, Australia
to
Port Douglas, Australia

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

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$126 - Fly, BusBest price
2028 kmDistance
7h 56m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sydney to Port Douglas 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
Bus
Average Duration
7h  56m
Estimated price
$126-418
Recommended
route map
Distance: 2028 km
Duration: 7h 56m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
10h  56m
Estimated price
$140-525
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
42h  11m
Estimated price
$190-4223
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
51h  3m
Estimated price
$216-1260
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
46h  47m
Estimated price
$233-404
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
29h  18m
Estimated price
$1261-1262
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Traveling From Sydney to Port Douglas

The journey from Sydney’s bustling urban landscape to the serene beaches and lush rainforests of Port Douglas offers a striking contrast that invites adventure and relaxation.

Best Neighbourhoods in Port Douglas

Port Douglas features charming neighborhoods that cater to diverse interests.

Macrossan Street
• Bustling dining and shopping options nearby.
• Close to Four Mile Beach activities.
Pandanus Street
• Offers a quiet, residential atmosphere.
• Surrounded by lush tropical gardens.
Port Douglas Marina
• Gateway for reef tours and fishing charters.
• Scenic views and waterfront dining available.

Best Times To Visit Port Douglas's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Port Douglas.

Great Barrier Reef
Visiting early morning or late afternoon offers fewer crowds and stunning light.
Daintree Rainforest
Weekdays see fewer visitors, allowing for a more tranquil exploration.
Four Mile Beach
Early mornings provide a peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunrise views.

Port Douglas Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Port Douglas enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, with the best times to visit typically being during the dry season from May to October. This weather impacts your travel experience, as clearer skies and comfortable temperatures make outdoor activities and explorations much more enjoyable.

Dining Recommendation in Port Douglas

When in Port Douglas, don’t miss trying the local Barramundi fish at Nautilus Restaurant, where the tropical atmosphere and open-air dining transport you to a world of fresh flavors that differ from Sydney’s urban eateries. The emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients here brings a unique taste of the region, offering a dining experience that celebrates both the land and sea.

Sydney - Port Douglas operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
3h 3m
Estimated price
$1267-1268

Plane from Newcastle (NTL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$1267-4181
Website
virginaustralia.com

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$1267-1268

Plane from Newcastle (NTL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
5h 26m
Estimated price
$1269-4184
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Sydney (SYD) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
3h 3m
Estimated price
$4185-4186

Plane from Newcastle (NTL) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$1267-4181
Train
Contact phone
131 500
Website
https://transportnsw.info/

Train from Central Station to Hamilton Station

Average Duration
2h 39m
Estimated price
$4187-4188

Train from Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
14h 12m
Estimated price
$1402-1403
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/

Train from Roma Street to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
Estimated price
$1267-190
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+61 7 3036 2070
Website
https://www.transnorthbus.com.tnbc.com.au/

Bus from Cairns to Port Douglas

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$1408-1409
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Central Station to Brisbane

Average Duration
14h
Estimated price
$41885-5250
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
29h 30m
Estimated price
$1263-1269

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

Traveling between Sydney and Port Douglas 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 unforgettable road trip from Sydney to Port Douglas, covering a scenic driving distance of 1548 miles. The journey promises breathtaking landscapes and diverse experiences along the way. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $310 to $460 for the road trip from Sydney to Port Douglas. Enjoy the flexibility of a self-drive adventure while soaking in the beauty of the Australian countryside. 🌴 Arrive in the tropical paradise of Port Douglas after approximately 29 hours and 18 minutes on the road. Indulge in the laid-back charm, stunning beaches, and vibrant marine life that await you in this coastal gem.
Average price
$310 - $460
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Sydney to Port Douglas is by taking a direct flight from Sydney Airport to Cairns Airport, which takes approximately 3 hours. 🌴 Upon landing in Cairns, you can either rent a car and drive for about 1.5 hours to reach the tropical paradise of Port Douglas or take a connecting flight for a more convenient journey.
Departure Point
Sydney Airport
Arrival Point
Cairns Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking a direct flight with either Jetstar, Virgin Australia, or Qantas, as these airlines offer the quickest option from Sydney (SYD) to Cairns (CNS), taking around 3 hours.
• Upon arrival at Cairns Airport, follow the clear signage to the shuttle services or taxi ranks; expect a taxi fare of approximately AUD 80 to AUD 100 to reach Port Douglas, which is about a 60-minute drive away.
• Before your trip, check out the Cairns Airport website (cairnsairport.com.au) for real-time transport schedules and consider dining options available during your layover if you have connecting flights.
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Sydney to Port Douglas by bus, spanning a total travel time of approximately 46 hours and 47 minutes. 💰 The cost of bus tickets between Port Douglas and Sydney ranges from $233 to $404, offering travelers budget-friendly and flexible transportation options for this extended route.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sydney to Port Douglas.

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The distance between Sydney and Port Douglas is approximately 1260 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 1548.4 miles. The typical travel time by flying from Sydney and then taking a bus to Port Douglas is around 7 hours and 56 minutes. On the other hand, driving from Port Douglas to Sydney takes about 29 hours and 18 minutes, while taking a bus from Sydney to Port Douglas takes approximately 47 hours and 34 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Sydney to Port Douglas is to fly from Sydney to Cairns and then take a bus to Port Douglas. This option takes approximately 7 hours and 56 minutes and costs around $120-$370. Taking a flight allows you to reach your destination quickly while the bus provides a convenient and affordable way to travel the remaining distance to Port Douglas.
The prices for bus travel between Sydney and Port Douglas range from $199 to $288. These prices are subject to variation depending on factors such as travel dates, availability, and the specific bus service chosen. It is advisable to check with different bus operators or travel agencies to find the best deals and compare prices before making a booking.
To get from Sydney to Port Douglas without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance is approximately 1548 miles, and it takes around 29 hours and 18 minutes to complete the journey. The cost of this option can vary, with prices ranging from $310 to $460 depending on factors like fuel consumption and vehicle type. Make sure to plan for rest stops and accommodation along the way to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.
To travel from Sydney to Port Douglas without a car, the best option is to take a train and bus. The journey takes approximately 42 hours and 11 minutes and costs between $190 and $360. You can take a train from Sydney to Cairns, which takes around 25 hours, and then transfer to a bus to reach Port Douglas, which takes approximately 17 hours.
The flight duration between Sydney and Port Douglas is approximately 3 hours for a direct flight from Sydney Airport to Cairns Airport. However, it is important to note that Port Douglas does not have its own airport, so travelers would need to take a connecting flight or drive from Cairns to reach Port Douglas. The cost of the flight typically varies depending on the dates, airlines, and booking preferences, with prices ranging from around $150 to $400 or more for a round-trip ticket.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Port Douglas. With over 359 hotels to choose from, you can find something to suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $87 per night, offering a range of options from budget-friendly motels to luxurious resorts. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best deals and availability.

Trips from Sydney