Flights to Cairns

Cairns, a tropical haven in Far North Queensland, entices travellers with its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Flights to Cairns offer access to the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where snorkelling and diving opportunities abound. Additionally, the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests on Earth, is a short drive away, promising unforgettable eco-adventures. Cairns International Airport serves as the main gateway, with numerous airlines offering direct and connecting flights from major cities worldwide. Whether seeking outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, or relaxation on palm-fringed beaches, Cairns beckons travellers with its irresistible allure.

Airports in Cairns

Airlines flying to Cairns from the UK

• Qantas Airways
• British Airways
• Emirates
• Singapore Airlines
• Cathay Pacific
• Qatar Airways
• Etihad Airways
• Virgin Australia

What is the best time to get cheapest flights to Cairns?

The best time to find cheaper flights to Cairns typically falls during the shoulder seasons, which are the periods between the peak and off-peak travel times. Consider the following insights:

• Off-Peak Seasons: Aim to book flights during the off-peak seasons, which are generally from April to June and September to November. During these times, there's less demand for travel to Cairns, leading to potentially lower airfare prices.
• Avoid Peak Season: Peak season in Cairns typically occurs from December to February, coinciding with the Australian summer and school holidays. Flights during this time are often more expensive due to increased demand.
• Midweek Travel: Try to book flights departing midweek, as flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays tend to be cheaper compared to weekends.
• Book in Advance: Booking flights well in advance can often result in lower prices. Aim to book your tickets at least a few months ahead of your travel dates to secure the best deals.
• Flexible Dates: Remain flexible with your travel dates and be willing to adjust your itinerary by a few days. Sometimes, flying a day earlier or later can make a significant difference in ticket prices.
• Use Fare Comparison Tools: Utilise online fare comparison tools and websites to compare prices across different airlines and booking platforms. This allows you to find the most competitive deals for your desired travel dates.

How long is a direct and indirect flight to Cairns from United Kingdom?

The duration of a direct flight from the United Kingdom to Cairns typically varies depending on the departure city and airline, but it generally takes around 21 to 24 hours. For indirect flights with one or more stopovers, the duration can vary significantly based on the layover locations and the total number of stops. Indirect flights can range from around 25 to 30+ hours, depending on factors such as the duration of layovers and the efficiency of connecting flights.

What is the time difference between the United Kingdom and Cairns?

The time difference between the United Kingdom and Cairns, Australia, varies depending on the time of year due to differences in daylight saving time observance. As a general rule:

• Standard Time: When the UK is on standard time (GMT), Cairns is typically 10 hours ahead. For example, when it's noon in the UK, it's usually 10 p.m. in Cairns.
• Daylight Saving Time: When the UK is on daylight saving time (BST), Cairns is usually 9 hours ahead. For instance, when it's noon in the UK during daylight saving time, it's generally 11 p.m. in Cairns.

How much is a return flight from United Kingdom to Cairns?

The cost of a return flight from the United Kingdom to Cairns varies significantly depending on several factors such as the airline, time of booking, class of travel, and season. However, here are the average return fares across different classes:

• Economy Class: Economy class return fares typically range from £600 to £1,200, depending on factors such as airline promotions, booking time, and demand.
• Premium Economy Class: Premium economy class return fares usually range from £1,200 to £2,000. This class offers enhanced comfort and amenities compared to economy class.
• Business Class: Business class return fares typically range from £2,000 to £5,000 or more. Passengers in this class enjoy premium services, including lie-flat seats, gourmet meals, and access to airport lounges.
• First Class: First class return fares are the highest, often ranging from £5,000 to £10,000 or more. First-class passengers experience unparalleled luxury, with spacious seating, personalised service, and exclusive amenities.

Which United Kingdom Airport can I fly to Cairns?

• London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
• London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
• Manchester Airport (MAN)
• Birmingham Airport (BHX)
• Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
• Glasgow Airport (GLA)

Baggage Allowance on flights to Cairns from the United Kingdom

Baggage policies vary among airlines, and specific details may change over time. However, here's a general overview of typical baggage policies across different classes for flights from the UK to Cairns:

• Economy Class: Checked Baggage: Usually, passengers are allowed one to two checked bags weighing up to 23kg each, depending on the airline Cabin Baggage: Passengers typically can bring one cabin bag and one personal item (such as a handbag or laptop bag) on board, with weight and size restrictions varying by airline.
• Premium Economy Class: Checked Baggage: Similar to economy class, premium economy passengers often have allowances for one to two checked bags, typically with higher weight limits (often up to 32kg each) Cabin Baggage: Cabin baggage allowances are usually the same as in economy class.
• Business Class: Checked Baggage: Business class passengers generally enjoy more generous baggage allowances, with two to three checked bags allowed, often with higher weight limits (up to 32kg each) Cabin Baggage: Similar to economy and premium economy, but sometimes with additional allowances for personal items or carry-on bags.
• First Class: Checked Baggage: First class passengers typically have the most generous baggage allowances, with multiple checked bags permitted, often with higher weight limits (up to 32kg each) Cabin Baggage: Similar to business class, but with potential additional allowances for carry-on items or personal items.

Mini Travel Guide of Cairns, Australia

Best Things to Do in Cairns

• Explore the Great Barrier Reef: Embark on a snorkelling or diving adventure to explore the breathtaking underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system.
• Visit the Daintree Rainforest: Take a guided tour or self-drive to the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests on Earth, and discover its diverse flora and fauna.
• Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Ride the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway through lush rainforest, then glide over the canopy on the Skyrail Cableway for stunning views.
• Enjoy Cairns Esplanade: Relax or take a stroll along the Cairns Esplanade, featuring picturesque views, swimming lagoons, BBQ areas, and walking paths.
• Experience Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park: Immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture with traditional performances, interactive exhibits, and guided tours at Tjapukai Cultural Park.
• Visit Cairns Tropical Zoo: Encounter native Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles, and colourful birds, at the Cairns Tropical Zoo.
• Explore the Atherton Tablelands: Take a day trip to the Atherton Tablelands to explore waterfalls, crater lakes, rainforest walks, and charming country towns.
• Dive with Dwarf Minke Whales: During the winter months, join a liveaboard dive expedition to swim and interact with curious dwarf minke whales on the Great Barrier Reef.
• Experience Night Markets: Browse through stalls offering local crafts, souvenirs, and street food at the Cairns Night Markets, open every evening on the Esplanade.
• Skydive over Cairns: Experience an adrenaline rush with a tandem skydive over Cairns, enjoying spectacular views of the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Cairns

• Cairns City Centre: The central business district offers convenience with easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions like the Cairns Esplanade and Reef Fleet Terminal.
• Esplanade: Stay along the waterfront Esplanade for stunning views, walking paths, swimming lagoons, and proximity to dining and entertainment options.
• Cairns North: A quieter residential area close to the city centre, Cairns North offers easy access to attractions like the Botanic Gardens and Cairns Aquarium.
• Trinity Beach: Enjoy a relaxed beachside vibe in Trinity Beach, with palm-fringed shores, beachfront cafes, and a range of accommodation options.
• Palm Cove: A picturesque seaside village north of Cairns, Palm Cove boasts luxury resorts, award-winning restaurants, and a serene beachfront atmosphere.
• Edge Hill: Known for its leafy streets and heritage-listed homes, Edge Hill offers a peaceful retreat with proximity to the Botanic Gardens and trendy cafes.
• Holloways Beach: Experience a laid-back coastal lifestyle in Holloways Beach, with its long stretch of sand, beachfront accommodation, and local dining spots.
• Redlynch: Nestled in the rainforest foothills, Redlynch offers a tranquil setting with access to nature reserves, hiking trails, and swimming holes.
• Yorkeys Knob: A seaside suburb with a marina, golf course, and uncrowded beaches, Yorkeys Knob is ideal for a relaxing getaway away from the city bustle.
• Stratford: A riverside suburb close to the city, Stratford features boutique accommodation options, riverside dining, and easy access to the Kuranda Scenic Railway.

Best Time to Visit Cairns

The best time to visit Cairns depends on personal preferences and the activities you wish to enjoy. Here's a guide to help:

• Dry Season (May to October): Ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring the Great Barrier Reef, rainforest hikes, and wildlife spotting. Enjoy sunny weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for water-based adventures and sightseeing. Peak tourist season, so expect higher accommodation prices and larger crowds, especially during school holidays.
• Wet Season (November to April): Offers lush landscapes, vibrant flora, and fewer tourists, providing a more serene experience. Rainfall increases, creating lush rainforests and replenishing waterfalls, making it an excellent time for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Higher humidity and occasional heavy rain showers, but still, plenty of sunny days for outdoor activities. Chance to witness spectacular tropical storms and lightning displays, adding excitement to your visit.
• Shoulder Seasons (April, May, September, October): Ideal compromise between the dry and wet seasons, offering pleasant weather with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. Perfect for a mix of outdoor adventures and relaxation, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity levels. Great time to explore Cairns and its surroundings without the peak season crowds, enjoying attractions with fewer queues.

Best Hotels to Stay in Cairns

• Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina Cairns: Offering luxurious accommodation with stunning views of the marina and Trinity Inlet, this hotel provides upscale amenities and convenient access to the city centre.
• Pullman Cairns International: Located in the heart of Cairns, this hotel boasts spacious rooms, a rooftop swimming pool, and a range of dining options, perfect for both business and leisure travellers.
• Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort: With its sleek design, vibrant atmosphere, and three stunning swimming pools, Riley offers a contemporary retreat in Cairns' Esplanade precinct.
• Hilton Cairns: Situated on the waterfront, Hilton Cairns provides stylish rooms, a lagoon-style pool, and easy access to the Great Barrier Reef departure point, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking convenience and luxury.
• Pacific Hotel Cairns: Overlooking Trinity Bay, Pacific Hotel Cairns offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and a central location close to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
• Cairns Colonial Club Resort: Set amidst 11 acres of tropical gardens, this resort offers spacious rooms, multiple swimming pools, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families and couples.
• The Abbott Boutique Hotel: Nestled in a heritage-listed building in Cairns CBD, The Abbott Boutique Hotel offers boutique accommodation with stylish rooms and easy access to attractions, dining, and nightlife.
• Mantra Esplanade Cairns: Located on the Esplanade, this apartment-style hotel features modern accommodation, a swimming pool, and self-contained apartments with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns: Offering contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool, and a central location near Cairns Esplanade, DoubleTree by Hilton provides a comfortable base for exploring the city.
• Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort: Surrounded by tropical gardens, this resort offers spacious rooms, a lagoon-style pool, and a central location within walking distance of Cairns' attractions and waterfront.

Best Restaurants to Eat in Cairns

• Ochre Restaurant: Known for its innovative Australian cuisine featuring native ingredients, Ochre Restaurant offers a unique dining experience with dishes such as kangaroo, crocodile, and barramundi.
• Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse: Specialising in premium Australian beef and seafood, Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse provides a sophisticated dining atmosphere with waterfront views and an extensive wine list.
• Salt House: Offering contemporary Australian cuisine in a stunning waterfront setting, Salt House features a diverse menu, rooftop bar, and live music, making it a popular choice for both dining and nightlife.
• Tamarind Restaurant: Located at the Reef Hotel Casino, Tamarind Restaurant serves modern Asian cuisine with a focus on Thai, Chinese, and Japanese flavours, complemented by an extensive wine list.
• Perrotta's at the Gallery: Situated within the Cairns Art Gallery, Perrotta's offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes using locally sourced produce, along with a curated selection of wines and cocktails.
• Dundee's Restaurant on the Waterfront: Enjoy panoramic views of the Trinity Inlet while dining on fresh seafood, steak, and Australian classics at Dundee's Restaurant, known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service.
• Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant: Experience the flavours of Bali at Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant, offering authentic Indonesian dishes made with traditional spices and ingredients in a cosy setting.
• Barnacle Bill Seafood Inn: A Cairns institution, Barnacle Bill Seafood Inn serves up fresh seafood platters, fish and chips, and other seafood favourites in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
• The Raw Prawn Restaurant & Bar: Specialising in fresh seafood and steak dishes, The Raw Prawn Restaurant & Bar offers waterfront dining with a relaxed vibe, perfect for enjoying sunset views.
• Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park Flame Tree Bar & Grill: Located within the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, Flame Tree Bar & Grill serves up indigenous-inspired dishes alongside stunning views of the surrounding rainforest.

How to Travel Within Cairns

• Public Transport: Cairns has a reliable public bus system operated by TransLink, offering routes throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. Passengers can purchase tickets onboard or use a go card for seamless travel.
• Taxi Services: Taxis are readily available in Cairns and can be hailed from the street or booked in advance. Taxis provide convenient door-to-door transport for individuals or groups.
• Ridesharing Services: Services like Uber and Ola operate in Cairns, providing another convenient option for getting around the city. Passengers can use smartphone apps to request rides and track their drivers.
• Bicycle Hire: Cairns offers bicycle hire services, allowing visitors to explore the city on two wheels. Several rental companies provide bikes for short-term or long-term hire, with options for guided tours as well.
• Car Hire: Renting a car is an option for visitors who wish to explore Cairns and its surrounding regions at their own pace. Several car hire companies operate in Cairns, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.
• Scooter and Motorcycle Hire: For a fun and convenient way to get around Cairns, visitors can rent scooters or motorcycles from local rental companies. This option provides flexibility and agility in navigating the city's streets.
• Cairns City Loop Bus: The Cairns City Loop Bus is a free hop-on-hop-off service that circulates around the city centre, stopping at popular attractions, shopping areas, and accommodation. It's a convenient way to explore Cairns' central landmarks.
• Tour Shuttles: Many tour operators offer complimentary shuttle services for guests staying in Cairns accommodation, transporting them to and from tour departure points. Check with your tour provider for shuttle availability and schedules.
• Water Taxis: Water taxis provide a unique way to travel between Cairns and nearby islands or coastal destinations. These services are especially useful for accessing the Great Barrier Reef and other marine attractions.

Visa Requirements for Cairns, Australia

UK residents planning to visit Cairns, Australia, must obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or Visitor Visa (subclass 600) before their trip. The ETA allows for multiple short visits to Australia for tourism or business purposes, valid for up to 12 months with each visit lasting up to three months. The Visitor Visa (subclass 600) permits longer stays for tourism, business, or visiting family, with options for single or multiple entries. Applicants can apply online or through a travel agent and must meet health and character requirements. It's advisable to apply for the appropriate visa well in advance of travel dates.