The stunning coastal city of Cairns is located in tropical Far North Queensland in Australia. In the centre, you will find the Cairns Esplanade, which is lined with boutique bars, restaurants and shops. Be sure to check out the local lagoon and the Daintree National Park, filled with beaches, rainforest trails and exciting gorge walks. 

Unless you’re wanting to rent a car for the duration of your stay in Cairns, the only way to get from Cairns airport to the city is to take a taxi. An airport taxi will take around 7 minutes to reach the centre and will cost approximately €20 (AUD 30), based on a taximeter.

2 options to go from Cairns Airport to city center

PRICE FOR
OPTION
PRICE
TIME
AVAILABILITY
Welcome Pickups Private Transfer
€59 9min 24/7
Convenience
Book
Taxi
€20 7min 24/7
Convenience
Book
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How to get from Cairns Airport to Cairns City by taxi

There’s only one way to get from Cairns Airport to the city if you don’t want to rent a car, and that’s taking a local taxi. The local drivers will charge around €20 (AUD 30) for a Cairns Airport shuttle to the city, but the journey will be just 7 minutes in light traffic. 

How much is a Cairns Airport shuttle to the city?

The local drivers will use a taximeter to calculate the cost of your journey from Cairns Airport to Cairns city. There will also be a €2 (AUD 5) surcharge added to your fare for pickups from the International Terminal. The average cost for the journey from Cairns Airport to the city is €20 (AUD 30), but this is subject to change. For a fixed rate fare you can count on, we suggest pre-booking your transfers with Welcome Pickups.

Where do I find a taxi at Cairns Airport?

The local taxis are located at an official rank just outside of the arrivals hall. After collecting your baggage, you will see the long line of cars in front of you.

Convenience

Having to spend time waiting for a rental car or filling in paperwork is not the best way to begin your vacation in Australia. Instead, why not take a quick and easy Cairns Airport shuttle to the city? You won’t have to wait in line and you can make your way directly to the door of your hotel in just 7 minutes.

Useful Tips

Ensure your driver resets the taximeter before you begin your journey to avoid surprises.
Please ensure you wear your seatbelt. Keep in mind that smoking and the consumption of food or drink - including alcohol, during your trip, is not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get from Cairns Airport to the city by bus?

No, unfortunately, there’s no bus service from Cairns Airport to the city. Instead, you can take a convenient taxi from Cairns Airport. The local Cairns Airport taxis cost around €20 (AUD 30) and take approximately 7 minutes to reach the city.

What’s the distance from Cairns Airport to the city centre?

What’s the cheapest way from Cairns airport to city?

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Transfer Options in Cairns