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Townsville, Queensland to Cairns, Queensland from $30: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Townsville, Australia
to
Cairns, Australia

How to Get from Townsville 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.

$30 - Bus via Townsville City Stop ABest price
284.3 kmDistance
2h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Townsville 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
2h  16m
Estimated price
$107-244
Recommended
Company
Queensland Rail Travel
Train
Average Duration
6h  18m
Estimated price
$23-850
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 284.3 km
Duration: 2h 16m

See more options

Company
Greyhound Australia
Bus
Average Duration
5h  40m
Estimated price
$30-85
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
6h  48m
Estimated price
$32-48
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  9m
Estimated price
$40-65
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Traveling From Townsville to Cairns

The journey from Townsville to Cairns showcases a stunning transition from the laid-back coastal vibe of Townsville to the vibrant, tropical atmosphere of Cairns, offering you diverse experiences along the way.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cairns

Cairns boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct charm and experiences.

Cairns Esplanade
• Lively waterfront with stunning ocean views.
• Home to restaurants, shops, and recreational activities.
Palm Cove
• Picturesque beach lined with palm trees.
• Ideal for relaxing resorts and dining options.
Port Douglas
• Nestled between the reef and rainforest.
• Trendy cafes and boutiques enrich the atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit Cairns's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cairns's attractions can elevate your experience significantly.

Great Barrier Reef
Early morning tours offer fewer crowds and stunning light for snorkeling.
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Weekdays provide a quieter experience on this picturesque journey.
Cairns Night Markets
Visit during weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and fewer tourists.

Cairns Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cairns boasts a tropical climate, featuring warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. The best times to visit are during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Cairns

Indulge in the fresh seafood caught daily at Ochre Restaurant, where you can savor their signature dish featuring barramundi served with native Australian ingredients. This dining experience contrasts sharply with Townsville's more traditional fare, as Cairns embraces a vibrant atmosphere that highlights local flavors in a creatively modern setting.

Townsville - Cairns operators

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

Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Townsville (TSV) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
150-340
Website
rex.com.au

Plane from Townsville (TSV) to Cairns (CNS)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
95-230
Bus
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Townsville to Cairns

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
40-85
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Townsville to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
30-45
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Townsville to Cairns Central Station

Average Duration
6h 18m
Estimated price
23-850

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

Traveling between Townsville 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 picturesque road trip from Townsville to Cairns, covering a distance of 349.2 km. Admire the stunning coastal views and lush landscapes along the way, making for a scenic journey that lasts approximately 4 hours and 9 minutes. 💸 Budget-friendly travel options are available, with car rental prices ranging from $40 to $65 for the Townsville to Cairns route. Enjoy the flexibility of stopping at charming towns, roadside eateries, and natural attractions as you make your way towards Cairns, soaking in the beauty of Tropical North Queensland.
Average price
$40 - $65
🚆 Hop aboard the direct train service departing from Townsville to Cairns Central Station, running five times a week. The scenic journey will take you through the lush landscapes of Queensland in approximately 6 hours and 18 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for the train between Townsville and Cairns range from $23 to $850, offering different fare options to suit your budget and preferences. Experience this enjoyable and cost-effective way to travel between these two vibrant cities in North Queensland.
Departure Point
Townsville station
Arrival Point
Cairns Central Station
🛫 Flying from Townsville to Cairns is a convenient option for travelers, with a direct flight taking just 55 minutes. Regional Express and Qantas are the airlines that operate this route. 🌴 The flight from Townsville to Cairns offers stunning aerial views of the coastline and tropical landscapes, adding to the overall travel experience. The flight duration typically is 2 hours and 16 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Townsville and Cairns can vary, ranging from $107 to $244 depending on the airline and time of booking.
Departure Point
Townsville Airport
Arrival Point
Cairns Airport
🚌 Hop on a direct Greyhound Australia bus from Townsville to Cairns, departing four times a day for a comfortable journey that takes around 5 hours and 40 minutes. 💰 Prices for the bus ride between Townsville and Cairns range from $30 to $85, making it an affordable and convenient option for your travel within Queensland.
Departure Point
Townsville station
Arrival Point
Cairns station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Townsville to Cairns.

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The distance between Townsville and Cairns is 177 miles by road and 216 miles by car. If you prefer to travel by train, it takes approximately 6 hours and 18 minutes to reach Cairns from Townsville. Flying is the fastest option, with a travel time of 2 hours and 16 minutes. If you prefer to travel by bus, it takes around 5 hours and 40 minutes to reach Cairns from Townsville.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Townsville to Cairns is by taking the bus. This route takes approximately 6 hours and 48 minutes and is priced at $30-$50. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which only takes 2 hours and 16 minutes but costs between $110 and $260. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you prioritize cost or time efficiency for your journey.
The prices for a train journey between Townsville and Cairns range from $28 to $50. On the other hand, bus tickets between Cairns and Townsville can cost anywhere between $30 and $110. It is recommended to compare prices from different providers and book in advance to secure the best deals.
To travel from Townsville to Cairns without using public transportation, the best option would be to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 217 miles, which takes around 4 hours and 9 minutes by car. The driving route offers scenic views along the way and gives you the flexibility to make stops and explore attractions or towns along the route. The cost of fuel and tolls may vary, but the average price for the journey by car ranges from $40 to $65.
To travel from Townsville to Cairns without a car, you have a few options. The best way is to take a bus, which takes around 5 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $30 and $110. Another option is to fly, which takes about 2 hours and 16 minutes and costs between $110 and $260. If you prefer a slower but scenic journey, you can also take a train, which takes approximately 6 hours and 18 minutes and costs between $28 and $50.
Yes, there is a direct link between Townsville and Cairns. You can travel between the two cities by train or by bus. The train journey takes approximately 6 hours and 18 minutes, with services operating five times a week. The bus journey, operated by Greyhound Australia, takes approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes and operates four times a day.
The flight between Townsville and Cairns typically takes about 55 minutes. However, the duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and airline schedules. As for the cost, prices for this flight route can range from $112 to $254, depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and class of service. It is always recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deals for this flight.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Cairns. With over 711 hotels to choose from, you can find a range of options to suit your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Cairns start at $73, providing a variety of choices for affordable stays. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly accommodations, you'll find a suitable place to stay near Cairns.