- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
Leading contemporary art museum on Circular Quay. Visit for major Australian and international exhibitions and superb rooftop harbor views.
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Journey information
Overview: Cairns to Sydney flight
AustraliaAustralia
Flights from Cairns to Sydney depart on average 46 times per day, taking around 4h 18m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $95 (€77) if you book in advance.
There are 5 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:45, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 1218 miles (1961 km) distance in 2h 55m. September 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 1218 miles (1961 km) |
Average flight duration 4h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $95 (€77) |
Flights per day 46 |
Direct flights 5 |
Fastest flight 2h 55m |
First flight 5:45 AM |
Last flight 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 7 days |
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 Sydney
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$123
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$186
Fastest journey on Sep 18
2 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
2 h 58 m
Flights on Sep 18
3
Distance
1961 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Cairns to Sydney is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cairns to Sydney will cost around $186 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $123.
Fast flights
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 3 flights from Cairns to Sydney, including 3 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct flights cover the 1961 km distance in an average of 2 h 58 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 2 h 55 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the longest flights will take 3 h 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.
8:40 PM3h00Cairns11:40 PMSydney$1231One-way0 transfers- 9:10 AM2h55Cairns12:05 PMSydney$1371One-way0 transfers
- 8:05 AM3h00Cairns11:05 AMSydney$2971One-way0 transfers
- 9:10 AM2h55Cairns12:05 PMSydney$1371One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 PM3h00Cairns11:40 PMSydney$1231One-way0 transfers
- 8:05 AM3h00Cairns11:05 AMSydney$2971One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cairns to Sydney
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cairns to Sydney among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the flight, with an average ticket price of $570 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 18m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $570, while a bus costs an average of $711.
Distance: 1218 miles (1961 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$570 Average price Cheapest | $711 Average price | $363 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
6h 18m Average total duration Fastest 4h 18m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 47h 30m Average total duration 47h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 26h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cairns to Sydney is a flight with an average price of $570 (€464).
This is compared to other travel options from Cairns to Sydney:
A flight is $140 (€114) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cairns to Sydney costing on average $711 (€578).
The fastest way to travel from Cairns to Sydney is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 18m.
Other travel options to Sydney take longer:
Bus takes on average 47h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cairns and Sydney including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cairns to Sydney among Omio's users.
Live departures
Cairns to Sydney flight times
The table below shows live departures for Cairns to Sydney flights for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:40 PM Cairns | 3h00 | 11:40 PM Sydney | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, September 17 | |||||
| 8:05 AM Cairns | 3h00 | 11:05 AM Sydney | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:10 AM Cairns | 2h55 | 12:05 PM Sydney | 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 Sydney by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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 Sydney flights with Omio?
Jetstar Airways as well as Virgin Australia International offer flights services from Cairns to Sydney.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cairns to Sydney.
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 Sydney.
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cairns to Sydney.
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 Sydney.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cairns to Sydney.
Airlines: Virgin Australia International, Jetstar Airways from Cairns to SydneyFind the best flights between Cairns to Sydney with Omio's travel partners Virgin Australia International, Jetstar Airways from $95 (€77). 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 Jetstar Airways Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Jetstar Airways Price
$95 (€77)
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
2h 55m
Cheapest Virgin Australia International Price
$136 (€111)
Virgin Australia International frequency
34 a day
Complete guide to Sydney
Things to do in Sydney
Discover the best of Sydney — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sydney trip today.
- Must visit
Australian Museum
Australia's oldest museum, known for natural history, culture, and science. Family-friendly displays include dinosaurs and First Nations stories.
- Must visit
Art Gallery of New South Wales
State art museum near the Domain with Australian, Asian, and international collections. A cornerstone of Sydney's cultural scene.
- Must visit
Circular Quay
Sydney's postcard harbor precinct with ferries, waterside promenades, and direct access to the Opera House and Royal Botanic Garden.
- Must visit
Darling Harbour
Waterside cultural precinct with museums, public spaces, playgrounds, and easy harbor walks. Popular for families and skyline views.
- Must visit
Bondi Beach
Major beachside neighborhood famous for surf culture, coastal scenery, and the Bondi to Coogee walk. A Sydney classic for first-time visitors.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pavlova
A crisp meringue dessert topped with cream and fresh fruit. Widely claimed by Australia and popular in Sydney for celebrations and summer dining.
- Gluten-free
Sydney Rock Oysters
Australian grilled prawns, often served with lemon or garlic butter. Sydney's harbour setting and seafood markets make them a classic local choice.
- Gluten-free
Sydney Rock Oysters
Small, richly flavoured oysters farmed in New South Wales estuaries. A Sydney seafood staple, prized for their mineral taste and creamy texture.
Quay
Celebrated fine dining with harbour views, tasting menus, and refined Australian produce. Elegant and iconic for special occasions.
Manta Restaurant
Historic seafood restaurant on Woolloomooloo Wharf, known for fresh local fish, oysters, and a lively waterfront setting.
Harry's Cafe de Wheels
Legendary pie cart famous for the Tiger Pie, topped with mash, peas, and gravy. Casual, classic, and deeply woven into Sydney food culture.
Australian dollar (A$)
Sydney is costly for tourists: hotels, dining, and attractions are pricier than many Asia-Pacific cities, while public transport is reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- A$15-25 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- A$30-50 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- A$120+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- A$4.50-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Restaurants may get 5-10% for great service; cafes usually none. Round up taxis or add a small tip if helpful.
TripView
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- A$2.24
- Day pass
- A$18.70
To the city center
Sydney Airport Station -> Central Station
- Distance
- 8 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- Tap on and off with an Opal card, contactless Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or linked device on trains, metro, buses, ferries, and light rail.
- Sydney fares are cheaper outside peak times, and Opal daily caps limit most adult spending to A$18.70 per day.
FAQs: Cairns to Sydney Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cairns to Sydney 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 Sydney, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Cairns to Sydney can start from as little as $95 (€77) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Cairns to Sydney is $570 (€464) ; 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 Sydney is 2h 55m to travel the 1218 miles (1961 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 Sydney leaves at 5:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Cairns to Sydney leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct flights a day from Cairns to Sydney with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Cairns to Sydney, you can count on Jetstar Airways, Virgin Australia International for the best way to get you to Sydney. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Cairns and Sydney and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Cairns to Sydney generally leave from Cairns and arrive in Sydney.Cairns is 3 miles (5 km) away from Cairns city centre and Sydney is 1 miles (2 km) from Sydney city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Cairns to Sydney is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cairns and Sydney including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither Cairns nor Sydney 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 Sydney in winter.
The best events to attend in Sydney include:
- sydney festival, a month-long celebration of arts and culture featuring performances, exhibitions, and events
- vivid sydney, a festival of light, music, and ideas transforming the city with stunning light installations
- sydney gay and lesbian mardi gras, a world-famous parade and festival celebrating LGBTQ+ pride with colorful floats and performances
- new year's eve fireworks, iconic fireworks display over sydney harbour welcoming the new year.
The best holidays to experience in Sydney include:
- Australia Day, national holiday celebrating the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788 with various events and activities
- Labour Day, a public holiday in March that marks the achievements of workers with parades and community events
- Queen's Birthday, celebrated in June with winter festivities and opportunities for snow sports
- Christmas, a festive season in December filled with decorations, markets, and summer celebrations.
The best season to visit Sydney is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Sydney is during September-November or March-May.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cairns to Sydney 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 Sydney, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving taxi drivers overcharging or taking longer routes can occur, so it's recommended to use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of unlicensed street vendors and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to prevent fraud. Always stay alert in nightlife districts and keep belongings secure.
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 Sydney
Most Cairns to Sydney flights use the Cairns to Sydney airport pair. Use this guide to compare Cairns and Sydney airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in Cairns
Arrival airports in Sydney
Which Cairns airport do flights to Sydney leave from?
Flights from Cairns to Sydney 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 Sydney airport do flights from Cairns arrive at?
Flights from Cairns to Sydney arrive at Sydney. Sydney is 1 miles (2 km) from Sydney city centre.
Sydney (SYD)Sydney Airport, Mascot NSW 2020, Australia
City-centre transport
Getting to Sydney from Sydney city centre
Sydney is 2 km from Sydney city centre. Public transport options include:
Train, Airport Link, Domestic and Intertiol stations, 10-15 minutes to city center
Sydney airport facilities and services
Sydney 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 are located in both domestic and intertiol terminals, including fast food and gourmet options like McDold's and Wolfgang Puck.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport, with a simple login process. ATMs are located in both domestic and intertiol terminals, offering multiple currency options.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sydney: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Sydney: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sydney: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels within walking distance, including Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel..
More options for your journey from Cairns to Sydney
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Sydney and Cairns
Most popular flights to Sydney
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