Cheap flights from Melbourne to Cairns - Compare the best flight deals

Prices shown below were available within the past 3 days for the period specified and should not be considered the final price offered. Please note that availability and prices are subject to change.

Cheapest time to fly from Melbourne to Cairns

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Currency and cost comparison

TrainLocal, one-way ticket

9%Trains in Cairns are 9% cheaper than in Melbourne.

Melbourne$5.99

Cairns$5.45

MealMid-priced restaurant

29%A meal in Cairns is 29% cheaper than a meal in Melbourne.

Melbourne$30.49

Cairns$21.78

TaxiStandard daytime start rate

57%Taxis are 57% more expensive in Cairns than in Melbourne.

Melbourne$6.92

Cairns$10.89

CoffeeRegular cappuccino

8%Coffee is 8% more expensive in Cairns than in Melbourne.

Melbourne$5.98

Cairns$6.44

Exchange rate

1 NZD = 0.92 AUD

1 AUD = 1.09 NZD

Last checked on Sat, 17/05

Distance: 2325 kms

Melbourne airports

Melbourne Airport (MEL)How far from city centre: 11 kms

Avalon Airport (AVV)How far from city centre: 50 kms

Cairns airports

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

Comprehensive Guide to Flights from Melbourne to Cairns

Cairns, nestled in Tropical North Queensland, is a vibrant city renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It's a popular destination for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, and a unique Australian experience. The Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest are major draws, attracting visitors from across the globe. The city itself offers a mix of modern amenities and laid-back tropical vibes.

A direct flight from Melbourne to Cairns typically takes around 3.5 hours. However, flight duration can vary depending on weather conditions, air traffic, and the specific aircraft used. Several airlines offer direct flights, including Qantas and Jetstar, with multiple departures daily.

While direct flights are the fastest way to reach Cairns, you might consider alternative routes if direct flights are unavailable or are less cost-effective. Connecting flights might involve stopovers in major Australian cities like Sydney or Brisbane, slightly increasing the overall travel time. To find the cheapest flights, it's recommended to book your flights during the off-season, typically between November and April, and book in advance. The ideal time to book is around two to three months prior to your departure date.

The peak travel season in Cairns is from June to August, which usually aligns with the dry season. Expect higher airfares and a larger number of tourists. The off-peak season, from November to April, generally offers budget-friendly options, although it corresponds with the wet season.

Best time to fly to Cairns

Cairns enjoys a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summer (December to February) is hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 23.6°C to 31.4°C. Rainfall is significant during this period. Winter (June to August) is mild and dry, with average temperatures between 17.5°C and 26°C and reduced humidity. Spring and autumn offer pleasant shoulder seasons, with warm temperatures and moderate rainfall.

Melbourne airports

Melbourne boasts three major airports that cater to both domestic and international flights: Melbourne Airport (MEL), Avalon Airport (AVV), and Essendon Airport (MEB).

Melbourne Airport (MEL)

Melbourne Airport, opened in 1970, is the largest and busiest airport in Victoria, servicing numerous international and domestic airlines with extensive flight schedules. The airport has two terminals, and offers a comprehensive range of facilities and services. It recently underwent significant renovations and continues to expand its services.

Avalon Airport (AVV)

Located in Avalon, this airport primarily focuses on low-cost carriers servicing a smaller range of destinations and passengers. It also plays a significant role in aviation training and maintenance.

Essendon Airport (MEB)

Essendon Airport, one of Australia's oldest airports, primarily focuses on domestic flights and general aviation. Known for its diverse range of aviation services and general aviation activities.

Main airlines for this route

Qantas
Jetstar
Virgin Australia

Cairns airports

Cairns has one major airport: Cairns Airport (CNS), which serves as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Tropical North Queensland.

Cairns Airport (CNS)

Cairns Airport (CNS), established in 1940, is an international airport that has undergone several renovations since its inception. It boasts two terminals for domestic and international flights and is a major hub for airlines in the region. Getting to the city centre from the airport is straightforward. Public transportation options include buses provided by Excellence coaches, connecting to Cairns and Port Douglas. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at the arrivals hall. Car rental services are also available at both terminals.

What to do and see in Cairns

Cairns offers a wide array of activities and attractions, perfectly blending urban experiences with breathtaking natural landscapes.

Great Barrier Reef Trip: Explore this underwater wonderland by snorkelling, diving, or taking a glass-bottom boat tour. The vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life are truly unforgettable.
Kuranda Scenic Railway: Take a scenic train journey through lush rainforests, offering stunning views and cultural experiences along the way.
Daintree Rainforest Adventure: Embark on a guided tour of the ancient Daintree Rainforest, one of the world's oldest rainforests, encountering unique flora and fauna.

Frequently asked questions about flights from Melbourne to Cairns

Is it safe to travel from Melbourne 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!

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

The cheapest price for a flight from Melbourne to Cairns is 109$. 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 Melbourne to visit?

Looking at cab fares, a ride in Cairns costs about $ 10.89 NZD, 57% more expensive than Melbourne, with a fare of $ 6.92 NZD,

while train tickets cost 9% less at Cairns: $ 5.45 NZD versus $ 5.99 NZD at Melbourne.

Comparing the price of a meal, they range from 21.78 NZD euros in Cairns, 29% less than the 30.49 NZD euros in Melbourne.

The price of the coffee is around 8% more expensive in Cairns, with an average of 6.44 NZD , while in Melbourne the coffee costs 5.98 NZD.

How long does the flight from Melbourne to Cairns take?

Flight length from Melbourne to Cairns is around 03:25 hours on average, at an average distance of 2,335 km, for flights for the route (which may have 1 or more stops in other cities in between).

Which airports have flights between Melbourne and Cairns?

The main route from Melbourne to Cairns is: Melbourne Airport (MEL) to Cairns International Airport (CNS). The following airlines fly this route:

Jetstar.

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