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 Brisbane 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

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Airlines that fly from Brisbane to Cairns

Currency and cost comparison

MealMid-priced restaurant

14%A meal in Cairns is 14% cheaper than a meal in Brisbane.

Brisbane$30.19

Cairns$26.57

TrainLocal, one-way ticket

907%Trains are 907% more expensive in Cairns than in Brisbane.

Brisbane$0.60

Cairns$6.04

TaxiStandard daytime start rate

8%A taxi fare in Cairns is 8% cheaper than in Brisbane.

Brisbane$4.83

Cairns$4.47

CoffeeRegular cappuccino

2%Coffee is 2% more expensive in Cairns than in Brisbane.

Brisbane$7.38

Cairns$7.55

Exchange rate

1 NZD = 0.83 AUD

1 AUD = 1.21 NZD

Last checked on Wed, 15/04

Distance: 1390 kms

Brisbane airports

Brisbane Airport (BNE)How far from city centre: 1 kms

Cairns airports

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

Guide to flying from Brisbane to Cairns: what to expect

Cairns is your gateway to Far North Queensland's natural wonders. This tropical hub offers a unique blend of Indigenous culture, historical depth, and stunning natural beauty. Travellers are drawn to Cairns for its easy access to two World Heritage-listed sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest. Explore vibrant markets, discover rich Indigenous heritage, or simply relax by the ocean – Cairns provides a memorable experience for every visitor.

Flying from Brisbane to Cairns is a popular choice for New Zealanders looking to explore Australia's tropical north. The average direct flight takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it a quick trip. You'll find frequent flights throughout the day, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Consider visiting Cairns during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This period offers pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the Great Barrier Reef. While the wet season (November to April) brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds, you might experience higher humidity and tropical downpours. Booking your flights in advance, particularly for peak dry season travel, will help you secure the best fares.

Airports in Brisbane

Flying from Brisbane to Cairns, you'll depart from Brisbane Airport.

Brisbane Airport (BNE)

This airport serves as the primary international gateway for Queensland. It features two main terminals: the International Terminal and the Domestic Terminal, connected by a free transfer bus and a paid Airtrain service. The Domestic Terminal is equipped with a large food court, retail stores, and services. A major hub for various airlines, it offers extensive facilities including baggage services, car rental desks, and multiple parking options.

Airports in Cairns

When flying from Brisbane to Cairns, you will most likely arrive at Cairns Airport. This is the primary air travel hub for Far North Queensland, facilitating easy access to the region.

Cairns Airport (CNS)

Cairns Airport serves as the gateway to tropical North Queensland, located approximately seven kilometres north of the city centre. The facility features two terminals: Terminal 1 handles international flights, while Terminal 2 is dedicated to domestic services, including arrivals from Brisbane. A pedestrian walkway conveniently connects these two terminals. This air hub is a crucial connection point for those venturing to the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and other local attractions. Passengers arriving at the airport will find various ground transport options available immediately outside the terminal buildings.

Book your flights from Brisbane to Cairns at the best price

The warm Queensland sun and the inviting turquoise waters of Cairns are calling. With eDreams, you can effortlessly compare flights from a wide range of airlines, ensuring you find the best option for your journey north. Looking for an even better deal? Our Prime subscription unlocks exclusive discounts, making your travel budget stretch further. For ultimate convenience, bundle your flight and hotel together, simplifying your planning and saving you money. Discover the perfect flight to Cairns and start your adventure today.

Frequently asked questions about flights from Brisbane to Cairns

Is it safe to travel from Brisbane to Cairns during the Covid-19 situation?

At eDreams we do our best to ensure that your travel plans won't be affected by restrictions or possible cancellations that Australia may apply. Using the flexible ticket gurantee you can decide if you rather rebook or get a refund!

On average, how much is the price of a flight from Brisbane to Cairns?

When you fly from Brisbane to Cairns the average price is $211. However, this price depends on many other factors such as seasonality or how far in advance the route has been booked.

For flights from Brisbane to Cairns, how can I find the cheapest price?

The cheapest price for a flight from Brisbane to Cairns is 89$. At eDreams we use different machine learned based methodologies to find our costumers the best option available, considering airline combinations, stopovers and direct flights as well as different criteria for inbound and outbound journeys.

Is Cairns more expensive than Brisbane to visit?

Looking at cab fares, a ride in Cairns costs an average of 4.48 NZD , 7% cheaper than Brisbane, with a fare of 4.84 NZD,

while train tickets cost 908% more at Cairns: $ 6.05 NZD versus $ 0.60 NZD at Brisbane.

Comparing the price of a meal, they range from 26.61 NZD euros in Cairns, 12% less than the 30.24 NZD euros in Brisbane.

The price of the coffee is around 2% more expensive in Cairns, with an average of 7.56 NZD , while in Brisbane the coffee costs 7.38 NZD.

How long does the flight from Brisbane to Cairns take?

Flight length from Brisbane to Cairns is around 2 h and 25 m on average, at an average distance of 1,389.51 km, for flights for the route (which may have 1 or more stops in other cities in between).

How is the weather in Cairns compared to Brisbane?

While in Brisbane temperatures can reach an average of 25º ºC in summer, temperatures in Cairns can rise to 28º ºC during the hot season. In winter, however, weather indicators show around 22º ºC in Cairns, compared to the 16º ºC average reported in Brisbane.

Which airports have flights between Brisbane and Cairns?

The main route from Brisbane to Cairns is: Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Cairns Airport(CNS). The following airlines fly this route:

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