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Discover the cheapest flights from Cairns to Darwin
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Cheapest time to fly from Cairns to Darwin

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week: 19 Jan - 25 Jan
$874
$927
$900
$838
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$636
$582
$821
$827
$702
$851
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Currency and cost comparison

TrainLocal, one-way ticket
30%Trains in Darwin are 30% cheaper than in Cairns.
Cairns$5.75
Darwin$4.03
MealMid-priced restaurant
4%A meal in Darwin is 4% cheaper than a meal in Cairns.
Cairns$29.92
Darwin$28.77
TaxiStandard daytime start rate
46%A taxi fare in Darwin is 46% cheaper than in Cairns.
Cairns$11.51
Darwin$6.21
CoffeeRegular cappuccino
15%Coffee in Darwin is 15% cheaper than in Cairns.
Cairns$7.32
Darwin$6.21
Exchange rate
1 NZD = 0.87 AUD
1 AUD = 1.16 NZD
Last checked on Fri, 05/12
Distance: 1681 kms
Cairns airports
Cairns International Airport (CNS)How far from city centre: 5 kms
Darwin airports
Darwin International Airport - RAAF Darwin (DRW)How far from city centre: 2 kms

Comprehensive Guide to Flights from Cairns to Darwin

Discover the magic of Darwin, a city brimming with cultural treasures, historical significance, and breathtaking natural beauty. From its iconic landmarks to its rich heritage, vibrant local experiences, and stunning landscapes, Darwin captivates travellers seeking a unique Australian adventure. The fastest way to reach this tropical paradise from Cairns is by direct flight, an experience you can book easily through eDreams. Flights typically take around 2.5 to 3 hours, though this can vary depending on the airline and weather conditions. Qantas and Jetstar are two major airlines offering regular direct flights, often multiple times a day. While most journeys are direct, it's advisable to check specific flight details to eliminate any unexpected layovers. For budget-friendly options, consider flying during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October), when airfares tend to be more cost-effective. Booking your flight at least two months in advance can often help you secure the best deals. Darwin's peak season is during the dry months (May to October), which coincides with higher flight demand and higher costs. If travelling during the wet season (November to April), be prepared for potential flight disruptions due to the increased possibility of tropical storms. For alternative flight paths, other airlines may provide connections through major Australian hubs, but these generally increase overall travel time significantly. Remember to choose eDreams for the best deals and options available.

Best time to fly to Darwin

Darwin boasts a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the wet and the dry. The dry season, from May to October, is the most popular time to visit, offering warm sunny days with average temperatures between 20°C and 33°C and pleasant cool nights. Humidity remains manageable during this period. The wet season, from November to April, brings higher humidity, heavy rainfall, and tropical storms, making it less suitable for outdoor activities. During the wet season, minimum temperatures tend to rise significantly. Temperatures are consistently warm year-round, but the dry season provides the most comfortable conditions for exploring Darwin's attractions.

Cairns airports

Cairns has one main airport currently operating and serving commercial flights: Cairns Airport.

Cairns Airport

Cairns Airport is a modern airport serving both domestic and international flights. It's a significant hub for regional travel and offers a range of amenities for passengers. It has undergone several renovations recently and continues to see an increase in passengers and airlines.

Main airlines for this route

  • Qantas
  • Jetstar
  • Virgin Australia

Darwin airports

Darwin has one main airport currently operating and serving commercial flights: Darwin Airport.

Darwin Airport

Darwin Airport is a key airport in the Northern Territory, serving both domestic and international flights. It's a modern facility offering a variety of services and amenities for travelers. The airport is well-connected to the city centre by public transportation. You can easily reach the city centre by bus, taxi or car. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, and there are regular bus services running to the city.

What to do and see in Darwin

Darwin offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and vibrant city life. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or a history buff, you will find plenty to see and do in this exciting city.

  • Mindil Beach Sunset Market: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this popular market, with food stalls, live music and stunning sunsets.
  • Darwin Waterfront Precinct: Spend a relaxing day at the waterfront, swimming in the lagoon, or exploring the shops and restaurants.
  • Crocosaurus Cove: Get up close and personal with crocodiles at this unique wildlife park.

Frequently asked questions about flights from Cairns to Darwin

Is it safe to travel from Cairns to Darwin 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!
For flights from Cairns to Darwin, how can I find the cheapest price?
The cheapest price for a flight from Cairns to Darwin is 368$. 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 Darwin more expensive than Cairns to visit?
Looking at cab fares, a ride in Darwin costs an average of 6.21 NZD , 46% cheaper than Cairns, with a fare of 11.51 NZD,
while train tickets cost 30% less at Darwin: $ 4.03 NZD versus $ 5.75 NZD at Cairns.
Comparing the price of a meal, they range from 28.77 NZD euros in Darwin, 4% less than the 29.92 NZD euros in Cairns.
The price of the coffee is around 15% cheaper in Darwin, with an average of 6.21 NZD, while in Cairns the coffee costs 7.32 NZD.
How long does the flight from Cairns to Darwin take?
Flight length from Cairns to Darwin is around 02:55 hours on average, at an average distance of 1,676 km, for flights for the route (which may have 1 or more stops in other cities in between).

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