- Must visit
National Gallery of Victoria International
Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, known for major international collections, blockbuster exhibitions, and the iconic water wall on St Kilda Road.
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Journey information
Overview: Cairns to Melbourne flight
AustraliaAustralia
Flights from Cairns to Melbourne depart on average 19 times per day, taking around 3h 29m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $97 (€79) if you book in advance.
There are 4 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
Distance 1444 miles (2324 km) |
Average flight duration 3h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $97 (€79) |
Flights per day 19 |
Direct flights 4 |
Fastest flight 3h 20m |
First flight 5:30 AM |
Last flight 10:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
The cheapest and fastest flights from Cairns to Melbourne
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$116
Average price
$164
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 23 m
Flights per day
3
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 $164 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $116.
Fast flights
Of the 3 flights that leave Cairns for Melbourne onSat, Jun 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct flights cover the 2324 km distance in an average of 3 h 23 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the longest flights will take 3 h 25 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.
3:15 AM3h20Cairns6:35 AMMelbourne$1161One-way0 transfers- 8:40 AM3h25Cairns12:05 PMMelbourne$1351One-way0 transfers
- 11:45 PM3h25Cairns3:10 AMMelbourne$2421One-way0 transfers
- 3:15 AM3h20Cairns6:35 AMMelbourne$1161One-way0 transfers
- 11:45 PM3h25Cairns3:10 AMMelbourne$2421One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 AM3h25Cairns12:05 PMMelbourne$1351One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Cairns to Melbourne
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cairns to Melbourne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $97. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 29m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $97, and a train costs an average of $4087.
Distance: 1444 miles (2324 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$146 Average price Cheapest | $4091 Average price | $390 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 29m Average total duration Fastest 3h 29m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 72h 20m Average total duration 71h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 30h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cairns to Melbourne is a flight with an average price of $146 (€120).
This is compared to other travel options from Cairns to Melbourne:
A flight is $3945 (€3232) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cairns to Melbourne costing on average $4091 (€3352).
The fastest way to travel from Cairns to Melbourne is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 29m.
Other travel options to Melbourne take longer:
Train takes on average 71h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cairns and Melbourne including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cairns to Melbourne among Omio's users.
Live departures
Cairns to Melbourne flight times
The table below shows live departures for Cairns to Melbourne flights for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:40 AM Cairns | 3h20 | 3:00 PM Melbourne | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| 3:15 AM Cairns | 3h20 | 6:35 AM Melbourne | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cairns to Melbourne by train or flight
Compare train and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Cairns to Melbourne flights with Omio?
Jetstar Airways operates all 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?
- 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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cairns to Melbourne.
Why book with Omio over Kayak or Edreams?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cairns to Melbourne.
Airlines: Jetstar Airways from Cairns to MelbourneFind the best flights between Cairns to Melbourne with Omio's travel partners Jetstar Airways from $97 (€79). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
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 Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
$97 (€79)
Jetstar Airways frequency
9 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
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
Major natural and cultural history museum featuring science, First Peoples exhibitions, and the famous Forest Gallery beside Carlton Gardens.
- Recommended
The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia
Federation Square gallery dedicated to Australian art, from First Nations works to colonial, modern, and contemporary pieces in a central location.
- Must visit
Federation Square
The city's best-known public square, next to Flinders Street Station, hosting major events, architecture, galleries, and riverfront access.
- Must visit
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
Expansive central gardens with lakes, themed plantings, and walking paths, popular for relaxing, photography, and skyline views.
- Recommended
Southbank Promenade
Busy riverside walking area lined with public art, entertainment venues, and skyline views, especially lively in the evening.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Flat White
Melbourne’s signature espresso drink, made with velvety steamed milk and a strong coffee base. It is central to the city’s celebrated café culture.
Chicken Parma
A pub classic in Melbourne: crumbed chicken schnitzel topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted cheese, usually served with chips and salad.
Meat Pie
A beloved Australian handheld pie with rich minced meat gravy in pastry. It is a familiar snack at bakeries, sporting events, and cafés across Melbourne.
Attica
One of Melbourne’s best-known fine dining restaurants, celebrated for inventive Australian tasting menus and a polished special-occasion experience.
Tipo 00
A highly regarded city restaurant specialising in fresh pasta, Italian small plates, and a compact, stylish atmosphere.
Flower Drum
A long-established Melbourne institution for refined Cantonese dining, known for formal service and classic dishes in an elegant setting.
Australian Dollar
Moderate for a major city: coffee and casual meals are manageable, while hotels and fine dining can be pricey in central areas.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- AUD 15-25 for takeaway or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- AUD 30-60 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- AUD 120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- AUD 5-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent restaurant service; small tips for taxis are optional.
PTV
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- AUD 5.50
- Day pass
- AUD 11.00
To the city center
Melbourne Airport -> Southern Cross Station, Melbourne
- Distance
- 23 km
- Travel time
- 30 min
- Use a Myki card or Mobile Myki to travel on trains, trams, and buses; fares are capped daily in Zone 1+2.
- You cannot usually tap a bank card directly on Melbourne public transport; buy and top up Myki before boarding buses and trains.
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.
Cheap plane tickets from Cairns to Melbourne can start from as little as $97 (€79) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Cairns to Melbourne is $146 (€120) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Cairns to Melbourne is 3h 20m to travel the 1444 miles (2324 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
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 4 direct flights a day from Cairns to Melbourne with Jetstar Airways. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Cairns to Melbourne, you can count on Jetstar Airways 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.
Flights from Cairns to Melbourne generally leave from Cairns and arrive in Melbourne.Cairns is 3 miles (5 km) away from Cairns city centre and Melbourne is 3 miles (6 km) from Melbourne city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Cairns to Melbourne is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cairns and Melbourne including taking a train and flight.
Since neither Cairns nor Melbourne are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of Australia and Australia. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 1 h between Cairns and Melbourne in winter.
The best events to attend in Melbourne include:
- Melbourne International Comedy Festival, a month-long celebration of laughter featuring performances from top comedians
- Melbourne Cup Day, the iconic horse racing event known as "the race that stops a nation"
- White Night Melbourne, an all-night arts festival transforming the city with light installations and performances.
The best holidays to experience in Melbourne include:
- Labour Day, pleasant autumn weather and vibrant local festivals
- Queen's Birthday, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's parks
- Melbourne Cup Day, a unique cultural experience with horse racing festivities and lively atmosphere.
The best season to visit Melbourne is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Melbourne is during March-May or September-November.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cairns to Melbourne among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 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.
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.
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..
Most popular flights from Cairns
More options for your journey from Cairns to Melbourne
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Melbourne and Cairns
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