Cairns airport is the main gateway to the tropical far north. It boasts international, domestic and general aviation terminals. It is serviced by major international, national and state air carriers. There are many direct flights for those international travellers: United Kingdom, Europe, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Papua New Guinea and Hong Kong.

Cairns Port Authority owns and operates Cairns International Airport, which is Australia's fifth busiest in terms of international passengers. Cairns aiport offers both domestic and international flights and is serviced by most airlines. Domestic flights including Qantas, Virgin Blue, Sunstate and Flight West Air Link and local charter companies offer regular flights from major cities and regional Queensland.

Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) which accepts most cards are located in the terminals. Currency exchange for arriving domestic passengers is located at the centre of the terminal. There are variety of stores in the departure lounge including food outlets, newsagency and clothing stores. Public ameneities are also available to travellers, including toilets, showers, baby care and disabled facilities. The two terminals are joined by a five minute walk along a covered walkway. There is also a shuttle bus service that may be used for terminal transfers.

By Train

The QUEENSLANDER CLASS - Providing a totally relaxing and unwinding experience, this multi award-winning train offers the ideal way to experience the picturesque coastal stretch between Brisbane and Cairns, in comfortable, fully air-conditioned lounge cars, club cars and dining facilities. A leisurely 32-hour journey, The Queenslander offers first class travel with comfortable single or double sleeping berths, overhead reading lights, washbasins, fresh crisp linen, stationery packs, toiletries and bathrobes are provided in each cabin. Sumptuous meals are presented in the fine dining atmosphere of the Coral Cay Restaurant, while the Daintree Lounge provides the perfect place to wile away the hours with a cool drink and live entertainment.

SUNLANDER - Offering passengers a comfortable and affordable way to see the inland coast of Queensland, the Sunlander travels return from Brisbane to Cairns three times per week. The Sunlander meanders its way through the scenic, lush countryside of inland coastal towns of Bundaberg and Gladstone through to the sub-tropical region in Mackay, Proserpine and Bowen, until reaching its final destination of Cairns. Passengers can travel in first or economy class sleeping berths and seating is also available. Waterways Restaurant also provides an excellent array of sumptuous meals accompanied with quality Australian wines.

SPIRIT OF THE OUTBACK - This fascinating 1,300 km journey between Brisbane and Longreach offers a unique insight into the history and culture of early Australia, combined with interesting commentary, a social atmosphere and an authentic dining experience.

TILT TRAIN - QR's high-speed Tilt Train connects visitors to major tourist destinations from South East to Central Queensland. As Australia s fastest train, this service operates in each direction between Brisbane and Rockhampton and is outfitted with state-of-the-art facilities and catering - it's a wonderful way to explore the Capricorn and Coral Coasts

The distance to Cairns by the most practicable direct route is 1700 km from Brisbane, 2700 km from Sydney, 2800 km from Darwin, 3100 km from Melbourne. 

By Coach
Coach travel is an efficient and pleasurable way to see the countryside. Major coach companies operate luxury, air conditioned vehicles with express services between major Australian cities and Cairns.

Cairns is well serviced with marinas for boating enthusiast. A rising number of overseas cruise ships call at the port of Cairns regularly.