The prices shown on this page were available within the last 20 days for the specified periods and should not be considered the final price offered. Please note that availability and prices are subject to change.

Cheapest time to fly from Sydney to Cairns

If you’re planning to fly this route soon, keep in mind that the lowest fares are usually available in the middle of April. Take advantage of this period to save on your flight tickets and make the most of your trip. Please note that prices may change after your search.

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week: 20 Apr - 26 Apr

Flights from just $117

$216

$161

$124

$117

$119

$125

$129

$146

$156

$158

$146

MarchAprilMayJune

Airlines that fly from Sydney to Cairns

Tiger Airways Australia

Local currency and cost comparison

TrainLocal, one-way ticket

10%Trains in Cairns are 10% cheaper than in Sydney.

Sydney$5.60

Cairns$5.00

MealMid-priced restaurant

30%A meal in Cairns is 30% cheaper than a meal in Sydney.

Sydney$30.00

Cairns$22.00

TaxiStandard daytime start rate

30%A taxi fare in Cairns is 30% cheaper than in Sydney.

Sydney$5.40

Cairns$3.70

CoffeeRegular cappuccino

15%Coffee is 15% more expensive in Cairns than in Sydney.

Sydney$5.43

Cairns$6.25

Distance: 1961 kms

Sydney airports

Sydney Airport (Kingsford Smith Airport) (SYD)How far from city centre: 8 kms

Cairns airports

Cairns International Airport (CNS)How far from city centre: 5 kms

How to find cheap flights from Sydney to Cairns

Embarking on a journey from Sydney to Cairns offers a delightful change of pace, transporting you from a bustling metropolis to a tropical paradise in Far North Queensland. Cairns is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, both areas of immense natural significance. The region's rich Indigenous heritage is also a compelling draw, offering deep insights into ancient cultures and traditions. Travellers are drawn to Cairns for its extensive range of outdoor activities, the chance to experience diverse ecosystems, and the opportunity to engage with local communities.

When planning your trip from Sydney to Cairns, you'll find that direct flights typically take around three hours. This makes it an ideal destination for a shorter break or as the start of a longer exploration of Queensland. For comfortable travel, the cooler, drier months from May to September are generally considered the best time to visit Cairns. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and it’s an excellent time for enjoying activities like snorkelling, diving, and exploring the rainforest without the high humidity of the warmer months. Several airlines offer regular services, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Useful information about Sydney airports

Sydney offers one primary airport for travellers flying from Sydney to Cairns. This airport serves as the main gateway for both domestic and international flights.

Sydney Airport (SYD)

Located just 8 kilometres south of the Sydney central business district, Sydney Airport is Australia's busiest airport, handling a substantial volume of domestic and international passenger movements. It features three main terminals: Terminal 1 for international flights, Terminal 2 for domestic budget carriers and regional flights, and Terminal 3 for Qantas domestic flights. Travellers can access the city centre via the Airport Link train service, buses, taxis, or ride-share options. Car hire facilities are also readily available.

Cairns airports: good to know

Cairns offers one main airport for travellers flying into the region. Cairns Airport (CNS) is your primary gateway to Far North Queensland, providing convenient access to the city and surrounding natural attractions.

Cairns Airport (CNS)

Cairns Airport (CNS) is situated approximately 7 kilometres north of Cairns city centre. It operates both domestic and international flights, acting as a key hub for visitors heading to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The airport has two terminals, with Terminal 1 handling international flights and some domestic operations, and Terminal 2 dedicated to domestic services. Public transport options include shuttle buses and taxis, while car hire facilities are readily available on-site for those wishing to explore at their own pace.

Find cheap Sydney - Cairns flight deals with eDreams

When planning your next trip within Australia, remember that smart preparation makes all the difference. Comparing multiple airlines through eDreams allows you to effortlessly discover a range of flight options, ensuring you find fares that suit your travel needs and budget. Whether you're after flexible bookings or keen to unlock Prime discounts, eDreams simplifies the entire process. This approach helps you secure excellent value without the hassle, letting you focus on the journey ahead. Let eDreams guide your next adventure.

FAQs about flights from Sydney to Cairns

Can I get a flexible ticket for my trip from Sydney to Cairns?

At eDreams, we want your trip to run smoothly. Whether your flight gets canned or Australia suddenly changes travel rules, you’ll be covered. Flight cancelled? No dramas! With our flexible ticket option, you can rebook your Sydney to Cairns flight with no change fee, or grab a full refund.

What’s the typical cost of a ticket from Sydney to Cairns?

The average airfare for flights from Sydney to Cairns is about $257.44. Prices can shift depending on the season and how early you lock in your tickets.

How do I score the cheapest flights from Sydney to Cairns with eDreams?

Right now, the lowest fare from Sydney to Cairns is $ 74. Thanks to our clever tech, we line up the top flight options, mixing and matching routes, airlines, and timetables to nail both value and convenience.

Is Cairns more expensive than Sydney?

In Cairns, taxis are about 31% pricier, costing roughly 3.70 AUD, compared with Sydney where a ride averages 5.40 AUD.

When it comes to getting around, the average cab fare in Cairns is 3.70 AUD, pretty similar to Sydney.

Cab rides in Cairns can be about 31% cheaper, averaging 3.70 AUD, compared to 5.40 AUD in Sydney.

Catching the train in Cairns will cost you about 11% more, sitting at 5.00 AUD compared with 5.60 AUD in Sydney.

Train tickets are much the same in Cairns and Sydney, averaging 5.00 AUD.

Fares are roughly 11% cheaper in Cairns, with tickets priced at 5.00 AUD compared to 5.60 AUD in Sydney.

In some cases, eating out in Cairns will sting you about 27% more, with average meals at 22.00 AUD, compared with 30.00 AUD in Sydney.

As for lunch, expect to pay about 22.00 AUD in both Cairns and Sydney.

Meals in Cairns cost around 22.00 AUD, which is about 27% less than the 30.00 AUD you’d fork out in Sydney.

A coffee will set you back about 15% more in Cairns, averaging 6.25 AUD, while in Sydney it’s around 5.43 AUD.

Coffee prices are pretty much on par in both Sydney and Cairns, averaging about 6.25 AUD.

Coffee is roughly 15% cheaper in Cairns, coming in at 6.25 AUD, compared to 5.43 AUD in Sydney.

What’s the average flight time from Sydney to Cairns?

A standard flight between Sydney and Cairns takes around 3 h and 55 m, covering about 1,960.97 km. This includes both direct flights and connections.

How does the weather in Cairns compare with Sydney?

In summer, Sydney usually sees highs around 22.68 ºC. Over in Cairns, temps sit around 27.68 ºC. In winter, Cairns averages about 21.95 ºC, while Sydney hovers near 13.73 ºC.

Which airports connect Sydney with Cairns?

The main route linking Sydney with Cairns is between Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) and Cairns Airport(CNS). This leg is operated by the following airlines:

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