Landing at Cairns Airport, you’re already in the heart of one of Australia’s most captivating regions, where lush rainforests meet the dazzling Great Barrier Reef. But before you dive into the wonders that await, there’s one pressing question: How do you get from Cairns Airport to the city center efficiently and affordably? This guide will walk you through the best transportation options, ensuring your journey is smooth from the moment you touch down.

A taxi from Cairns Airport to the city center is undoubtedly one of the most convenient options. After a long flight, there’s nothing quite like hopping into a comfortable cab and being whisked directly to your destination. But how much can you expect to pay for this convenience?

Typically, a taxi ride from Cairns Airport to the city center, about 7 kilometers, will cost you between AUD 25 to AUD 35. This fare can vary depending on traffic conditions and the exact location of your accommodation. Cairns Taxis is the only regulated taxi service for the region, offering door-to-door passenger transport services. The taxi service covers the coastal area from Ellis Beach in the north to Wrights Creek, Edmonton in the south. It operates a fleet of 137 vehicles including sedans, station wagons, maxi taxis, and wheelchair-capable vehicles.

Each terminal at Cairns Airport has its sheltered taxi rank right at the front of the building. Simply follow the signage within the terminal to find the ranks. You cannot pre-book a taxi from the terminals, but taxis are always available and the ranks are monitored 24/7 by the Cairns Taxis Booking call center. There are free intercom call buttons at the start of each taxi rank that connect directly to the call center for additional assistance.

In addition to the fare, there is a taxi ground access charge at Cairns Airport:

This fee is added to the meter at the beginning or end of your journey and is payable to the taxi driver. These charges help maintain the taxi waiting areas and kerbside facilities at the airport.

If you’re looking to save money, there are several budget-friendly alternatives to taxis. Here are some of the cheapest ways to get from Cairns Airport to the city:

1. Public Bus

Public buses are a cost-effective way to travel from Cairns Airport to the city center. The Sunbus service, specifically Route 110, operates regularly from the airport to the city. The fare is approximately AUD 5 for an adult, and tickets can be purchased directly from the driver. Buses run from early morning until late at night, but it’s always wise to check the schedule in advance to avoid long waits.

2. Local Shuttle Bus

Local shuttle buses offer scheduled Seat-in-Coach services from Cairns Airport to the city center. Exemplar Coaches is a popular choice, providing transfers to various locations including the CBD, Port Douglas, and Palm Cove. The one-way fare to the CBD is AUD 20 for adults and AUD 10 for children aged 2-11. You can book these services at the Exemplar Transfer Desks in both Domestic and International Arrivals, online at exemplaronline.com.au, or by calling Exemplar Coaches at (07) 4213 3333.

3. Ride-Sharing Services

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are available at Cairns Airport and can be a cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. The cost of an Uber ride to the city center is usually between AUD 18 and AUD 25. These services can be conveniently booked through their respective apps, and they often provide real-time fare estimates and tracking.

4. Car Rentals

For those planning to explore Cairns and its surroundings extensively, renting a car might be the most economical choice in the long run. Cairns Airport offers an extensive choice of car hire options for both international and domestic travelers. Here are the six car hire companies located on-site, with car hire counters in the Arrivals Hall of both T1 and T2:

Prices for car rentals can vary, but deals often start at around AUD 50 per day. Having a car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path attractions.

Returning a rental car at Cairns Airport is straightforward. Car rental return car parks are conveniently located at both terminals. Follow the signs for car rental returns when you approach the airport.

If you prefer a more luxurious or private travel experience, consider booking a transfer or limousine service. It is strongly recommended to pre-book these services by calling (07) 4213 3333 or emailing reservations@exemplaronline.com.au at least 24 hours before your departure. For passengers who arrive without a booked service, inquiries can be made at the Exemplar desks in both terminals to check the availability of shuttles, private transfers, and limousine services.

Once you’ve sorted out your transport from the airport, it’s time to explore the vibrant city of Cairns. Known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Ready to experience all that Cairns has to offer? Whether you’re planning your visit or already on the way, make sure to book your attraction tickets, hotels, and flight tickets in advance to secure the best deals. For a seamless travel experience, start planning your trip with Traveloka, where you can find more information about attractions, make bookings, and get exclusive discounts.