- Must visit
National Gallery of Victoria
Australia's oldest and most visited public art museum, known for major international and Australian collections across two city sites.
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The cheapest and fastest flights from Cairns to Melbourne
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- $217
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- $449
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 3 h 25 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 3 h 28 m
- Flights on Nov 02
- 59
- Distance
- 2324 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Cairns to Melbourne is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cairns to Melbourne will cost around $449 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $217.
Fast flights
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 59 flights from Cairns to Melbourne, including 5 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct flights cover the 2324 km distance in an average of 3 h 28 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 3 h 25 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the longest flights will take 3 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
JQ339:45 AM 3h30 Cairns 2:15 PM Melbourne $217 1 One-way 0 transfers- JQ947
10:15 AM 3h30 Cairns 2:45 PM Melbourne $274 1 One-way 0 transfers - JQ945
2:40 PM 3h30 Cairns 7:10 PM Melbourne $274 1 One-way 0 transfers 
VA12987:50 PM 3h25 Cairns 12:15 AM Melbourne $289 1 One-way 0 transfers- JQ951 · JQ531
6:40 AM 12h00 Cairns 7:40 PM Melbourne $337 1 One-way 1 transfer
- VA1298
7:50 PM 3h25 Cairns 12:15 AM Melbourne $289 1 One-way 0 transfers - VA1292
11:45 AM 3h25 Cairns 4:10 PM Melbourne $467 1 One-way 0 transfers - JQ947
10:15 AM 3h30 Cairns 2:45 PM Melbourne $274 1 One-way 0 transfers - JQ33
9:45 AM 3h30 Cairns 2:15 PM Melbourne $217 1 One-way 0 transfers - JQ945
2:40 PM 3h30 Cairns 7:10 PM Melbourne $274 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Cairns to Melbourne flight
AustraliaAustralia
Flights from Cairns to Melbourne depart on average 56 times per day, taking around 4h 27m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $98 if you book in advance.
There are 6 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:30, the last at 22:50. The fastest flight covers the 1444 miles (2324 km) distance in 3h 20m. February is the cheapest month to fly.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance1444 miles (2324 km)
- Average flight duration4h 27m
- Cheapest ticket price$98
- Flights per day56
- Direct flights6
- Fastest flight3h 20m
- First flight5:30 AM
- Last flight10:50 PM
- Cheapest MonthFeb
- Cheapest DayTue
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Busiest DayThu
- Least Busy DayThu
- Best time to book1 day
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Cairns to Melbourne trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cairns to Melbourne.
Cheap plane tickets from Cairns to Melbourne can start from as little as $98 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Cairns to Melbourne is $544 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest flight from Cairns to Melbourne leaves at 5:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Cairns to Melbourne leaves at 10:50 PM.
Yes, there are 6 direct flights a day from Cairns to Melbourne with Jetstar Airways, Virgin Australia International. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
Live departures
Cairns to Melbourne flight times
The table below shows live departures for Cairns to Melbourne flights for tomorrow, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VA776 · VA342 | 9:15 AM Cairns | 10h00 | 8:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA776 · VA334 | 9:15 AM Cairns | 8h00 | 6:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA776 · VA328 | 9:15 AM Cairns | 6h00 | 4:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA776 · VA332 | 9:15 AM Cairns | 7h00 | 5:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| JQ33 | 9:45 AM Cairns | 3h30 | 2:15 PM Melbourne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| JQ893 · JQ445 | 9:45 AM Cairns | 9h10 | 7:55 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| JQ893 · JQ443 | 9:45 AM Cairns | 7h20 | 6:05 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| JQ947 | 10:15 AM Cairns | 3h30 | 2:45 PM Melbourne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| JQ961 · JQ777 | 10:20 AM Cairns | 6h25 | 5:45 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| JQ961 · JQ779 | 10:20 AM Cairns | 9h20 | 8:40 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1416 · VA862 | 10:55 AM Cairns | 6h10 | 6:05 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1416 · VA866 | 10:55 AM Cairns | 6h40 | 6:35 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1416 · VA870 | 10:55 AM Cairns | 7h10 | 7:05 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1416 · VA858 | 10:55 AM Cairns | 5h40 | 5:35 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1416 · VA876 | 10:55 AM Cairns | 7h55 | 7:50 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1416 · VA874 | 10:55 AM Cairns | 7h40 | 7:35 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA780 · VA336 | 11:40 AM Cairns | 6h35 | 7:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA780 · VA334 | 11:40 AM Cairns | 5h35 | 6:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA780 · VA342 | 11:40 AM Cairns | 7h35 | 8:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA780 · VA344 | 11:40 AM Cairns | 8h05 | 8:45 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1292 | 11:45 AM Cairns | 3h25 | 4:10 PM Melbourne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| JQ933 · JQ575 | 12:05 PM Cairns | 8h15 | 9:20 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| JQ933 · JQ577 | 12:05 PM Cairns | 11h05 | 12:10 AM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| JQ933 · JQ571 | 12:05 PM Cairns | 6h15 | 7:20 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA784 · VA356 | 2:40 PM Cairns | 8h35 | 12:15 AM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA784 · VA352 | 2:40 PM Cairns | 6h35 | 10:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA784 · VA346 | 2:40 PM Cairns | 5h35 | 9:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| JQ945 | 2:40 PM Cairns | 3h30 | 7:10 PM Melbourne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| VA1422 · VA800 | 3:45 PM Cairns | 14h50 | 7:35 AM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1422 · VA898 | 3:45 PM Cairns | 6h20 | 11:05 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1422 · VA810 | 3:45 PM Cairns | 16h05 | 8:50 AM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1422 · VA808 | 3:45 PM Cairns | 15h50 | 8:35 AM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA786 · VA322 | 5:25 PM Cairns | 18h50 | 1:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA786 · VA336 | 5:25 PM Cairns | 24h50 | 7:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA786 · VA314 | 5:25 PM Cairns | 16h50 | 11:15 AM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA786 · VA318 | 5:25 PM Cairns | 17h50 | 12:15 PM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA786 · VA306 | 5:25 PM Cairns | 15h00 | 9:25 AM Melbourne | 1 transfer | |
| VA1298 | 7:50 PM Cairns | 3h25 | 12:15 AM Melbourne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cairns to Melbourne flights with Omio?
Jetstar Airways as well as Virgin Australia International offer flights services from Cairns to Melbourne.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cairns to Melbourne.
Why book with Omio vs Jetstar Airways?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Jetstar Airways, but also compare tickets for the likes of Virgin Australia International to find the best option for your trip from Cairns to Melbourne.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Jetstar Airways with all available travel options, which are train, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cairns to Melbourne.
Why book with Omio over Kayak or Edreams?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Virgin Australia International to find the best option for your trip from Cairns to Melbourne.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cairns to Melbourne.
Airlines
Airlines from Cairns to Melbourne
Flights from Cairns to Melbourne with Virgin Australia International and Jetstar Airways. Flights with a stop available on this route with Virgin Australia International and Jetstar Airways. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Jetstar Airways
About
Jetstar Airways is an Australian low-cost airline headquartered in Melbourne and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Qantas Group. Established in 2003, it began domestic passenger services in May 2004 and expanded to international services in December 2005. Jetstar operates an extensive domestic and international network, serving over 75 destinations with more than 4,000 flights a week. The airline utilizes a fleet primarily consisting of Airbus A320 family aircraft and Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Jetstar is part of Qantas' two-brand strategy, positioning itself in the low-cost market while Qantas Airways focuses on the premium full-service market. The Jetstar Group also includes joint ventures like Jetstar Asia in Singapore and Jetstar Japan.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Jetstar Airways Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Jetstar Airways Price
$98
Jetstar Airways frequency
23 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag (7kg) for Starter fares
Additional luggage
Up to 40kg additional checked baggage can be purchased
Cancellation Policy
Starter fares are non-refundable. FareCredit available for cancellations made within 24 hours of departure on higher fare types
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers can travel up to the end of the 32nd week. For multiple pregnancies, travel is permitted until the end of the 28th week. Medical clearance required after 28 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied on direct flights only. Service must be booked in advance and fees apply
Amenities on board the airplane
Food sold onboard
Accessibility
Jetstar provides assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and special seating arrangements
Pets
Pets are not allowed in the cabin or as checked baggage except for service animals
Entertaiment on board
Virgin Australia International
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Virgin Australia International Duration
3h 30m
Cheapest Virgin Australia International Price
$205
Virgin Australia International frequency
33 a day
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cairns and Melbourne
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a flight from Cairns to Melbourne, you can count on Jetstar Airways, Virgin Australia International for the best way to get you to Melbourne. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Cairns and Melbourne and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
For international flights we recommend to arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
Complete guide to Melbourne
Things to do in Melbourne
Discover the best of Melbourne — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Melbourne trip today.
- Must visit
Melbourne Museum
Leading museum of natural history and culture, famous for dinosaur skeletons, Bunjilaka Aboriginal Centre, and family-friendly exhibits.
- Recommended
ACMI
Interactive museum focused on screen culture, video games, film, television, and digital innovation in the heart of Federation Square.
- Must visit
Federation Square
Cultural square anchoring central Melbourne, home to major institutions, public events, and one of the city's best-known meeting places.
- Must visit
Southbank Promenade
Historic riverside promenade lined with arts venues, public spaces, and skyline views, ideal for an easy central city walk.
- Must visit
Hosier Lane
Lively laneway famous for ever-changing street art, making it a classic stop for photos and a quick taste of Melbourne's creative side.
- Vegetarian
Smashed Avocado On Toast
A Melbourne cafe staple of toasted sourdough topped with seasoned smashed avocado. It reflects the city's influential brunch culture and produce-driven dining.
- Vegetarian
Croissant
A crisp, buttery croissant prized in Melbourne's French-inspired bakeries. It is a local breakfast favorite and showcases the city's strong pastry scene.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Flat White
Melbourne is known for expertly textured espresso drinks, especially the flat white. Its coffee culture is central to daily life and local identity.
Maker & Monger
Iconic market deli for large continental sandwiches, cheeses, and cured meats. Casual, busy, and beloved for quality produce and quick lunches.
Attica
Celebrated fine dining restaurant by the Yarra River, known for inventive tasting menus and polished service in a refined contemporary setting.
Pellegrini's Espresso Bar
Historic Italian institution on Lygon Street, famous for generous pasta, steak, and old-school hospitality in a lively classic dining room.
Australian dollar (A$)
Moderate for Australia: stays are a major cost, dining is mid-priced, and public transport is reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- A$15-25 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- A$30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- A$100+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- A$4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Restaurants may round up or leave 5-10% for great service. No tip is expected at cafes; taxis can be rounded up.
PTV
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- A$5.50
- Day pass
- A$11.00
To the city center
Melbourne Airport -> Southern Cross Station
- Distance
- 23 km
- Travel time
- 35 min
- Use a myki card or Mobile myki on trams, trains, and buses. Bank card contactless payment is not accepted on regular PTV services.
- Tram travel within Melbourne's Free Tram Zone is free. Touch on with myki outside the zone to avoid a fine.
Plan your visit to Melbourne
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Melbourne.
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). Travelers generally find using cards more convenient due to widespread acceptance and security, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or remote areas.
In Melbourne, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and on public transport. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's important to use official transportation services and be vigilant when handling personal belongings, especially in busy tourist hotspots and nightlife districts.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Cairns to Melbourne Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cairns to Melbourne by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Melbourne, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cairns and Melbourne including taking a train, flight, and bus.
popular airports
Popular airports from Cairns to Melbourne
Most Cairns to Melbourne flights use the Cairns to Melbourne airport pair. Use this guide to compare Cairns and Melbourne airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in Cairns
Arrival airports in Melbourne
Which Cairns airport do flights to Melbourne leave from?
Flights from Cairns to Melbourne depart from Cairns. The airport is 3 miles (6 km) from Cairns city centre at Airport Ave, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia.
Cairns (CNS)Airport Ave, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
City-centre transport
Getting to Cairns from Cairns city centre
Cairns is 5 km from Cairns city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus line 110, Cairns Airport stop, 7 km
Cairns airport facilities and services
Cairns has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants are located in both domestic and intertiol terminals, offering options like fast food and cafes.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout the airport, including major banks like ANZ and Commonwealth Bank.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cairns: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cairns: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cairns: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels such as the Cairns Airport Hotel within walking distance..
Which Melbourne airport do flights from Cairns arrive at?
Flights from Cairns to Melbourne arrive at Melbourne. Melbourne is 3 miles (6 km) from Melbourne city centre.
Melbourne (MEL)Melbourne Airport, Departure Dr, Melbourne Airport VIC 3045, Australia
City-centre transport
Getting to Melbourne from Melbourne city centre
Melbourne is 6 km from Melbourne city centre. Public transport options include:
SkyBus, Melbourne City Express, 30 minutes to Southern Cross Station
Melbourne airport facilities and services
Melbourne has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Various restaurants in terminal 2, including Asian and Italian cuisines.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in all terminals.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Melbourne: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Melbourne: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Melbourne: Ramps, assistance.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels within walking distance, including ParkRoyal Melbourne Airport..
Airports for flights from Cairns to Melbourne
See which airports are used for flights between Cairns and Melbourne, including airport details.
Flights from Cairns to Melbourne generally leave from Cairns and arrive in Melbourne.Cairns is 3 miles (6 km) away from Cairns city centre and Melbourne is 3 miles (6 km) from Melbourne city centre.
Most popular flights to and from Melbourne and Cairns
Most popular flights to Melbourne
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