Cheap Flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)

Last minute flights from Melbourne to Cairns

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Prices shown below were available within the past 3 days for the period specified and should not be considered the final price offered. Please note that availability and prices are subject to change.

Melbourne Cairns

BEST

DEAL

Fri, 03 Jan MEL - CNS

Wed, 08 Jan CNS - MEL

$366 $359

Prime price per passenger

Melbourne Cairns

BEST

DEAL

Sat, 15 Feb MEL - CNS

$73 $71

Prime price per passenger

Melbourne Cairns

BEST

DEAL

Wed, 08 Jan MEL - CNS

Wed, 15 Jan CNS - MEL

$158 $153

Prime price per passenger

Melbourne Cairns

BEST

DEAL

Mon, 13 Jan MEL - CNS

Fri, 17 Jan CNS - MEL

$177 $173

Prime price per passenger

Melbourne Cairns

BEST

DEAL

Wed, 15 Jan MEL - CNS

Thu, 23 Jan CNS - MEL

$167 $164

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Melbourne Cairns

BEST

DEAL

Wed, 22 Jan MEL - CNS

Thu, 23 Jan CNS - MEL

$187 $183

Prime price per passenger

Route information

Local currency and cost comparison

Train Local, one-way ticket

6% Trains in Cairns are 6% cheaper than in Melbourne.

Melbourne $3.3

Cairns $3.11

Meal Mid-priced restaurant

6% A meal in Cairns is 6% cheaper than a meal in Melbourne.

Melbourne $15.56

Cairns $14.63

Taxi Standard daytime start rate

82% Taxis are 82% more expensive in Cairns than in Melbourne.

Melbourne $3.42

Cairns $6.22

Coffee Regular cappuccino

16% Coffee is 16% more expensive in Cairns than in Melbourne.

Melbourne $3.36

Cairns $3.89

Exchange rate

1 USD = 1.61 AUD

1 AUD = 0.63 USD

Last checked on 23 December 2024

Distance: 1445 miles

Melbourne airports

Melbourne Airport (MEL) How far from city center: 7 miles

Avalon Airport (AVV) How far from city center: 31 miles

Cairns airports

Cairns International Airport (CNS) How far from city center: 3 miles

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Flights to Cairns from Melbourne

Have you been dreaming lately about heading off to your dream destination in Australia? Whether you're planning a getaway from Melbourne or looking for inspiration and ideas to travel to Cairns, eDreams has you covered. We have outstanding flight deals for your trip!

Keep reading to discover everything you need to know before your trip, along with the best tips and tricks to find the best deals and book your flight most easily and conveniently. Our essential information and expert advice will help ensure your travels in Australia go as smoothly as possible.

Choosing eDreams means selecting a travel companion that simplifies the art of trip planning. Get your booking today with Europe’s largest travel agency and let us help you prepare for your next adventure at the lowest price.

Finding cheap flights with eDreams

At eDreams, we’re committed to offering the best deals for your flight to Cairns (CNS) from Melbourne (MEL). To ensure you lock in the lowest prices, just follow these simple steps. Take a look and start saving without sacrificing comfort!

Here are 3 tips for finding low-cost flights:

1. Book your flight to CNS in advance: Try to book your flights several weeks or even months ahead of your travel date. Airlines often offer the lowest fares when tickets first become available.
2. Use our price comparison tool: eDreams’ platform allows you to compare prices across multiple airlines and dates in one place. By searching through our wide range of options, you’ll easily find the best deals for your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates and destinations: If you’re open to adjusting your travel dates or even the destination, you can often find significantly lower prices. Traveling during off-peak times or mid-week can also lead to better savings.

Top airlines flying from Melbourne to Cairns

You can book regular flights on this route with a bunch of different airlines, offering various service options, from economy to premium, to fit different budgets and preferences. Here are 5 tips to travel comfortably and stay relaxed during a long-haul flight:

1. Wear comfortable clothing: Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothes and shoes you can easily slip on and off. Layer up so you can adjust to the plane’s temperature.
2. Stay hydrated: Airplane cabins can be dry, so drink plenty of water throughout the flight to stay hydrated. Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
3. Move around regularly: Get up and stretch or take a short walk up the aisle every few hours to improve circulation and prevent stiffness.
4. Bring travel essentials: Pack a neck pillow, noise-canceling headphones, an eye mask, and a blanket or shawl for added comfort and to help you sleep more easily.
5. Keep yourself entertained: Download movies, music, podcasts, or eBooks beforehand, and bring a portable charger to keep your devices powered throughout the flight. Staying entertained will make the time pass more quickly.

How long does a flight from Melbourne to Cairns last

The distance between Melbourne and Cairns varies depending on if it is a direct, or a non-direct flight. To make your journey more comfortable, we recommend packing essentials like comfortable clothing and travel pillows for added relaxation. Don’t forget to bring entertainment, such as books, magazines, or downloaded movies, to help pass the time.

Main airports in Melbourne and Cairns

Melbourne airport’s facilities

At Melbourne airports, you’ll find various amenities to make the wait more enjoyable. Whether you want to browse luxury shops, enjoy a gourmet meal, or pick up some last-minute souvenirs, there’s plenty to explore. You can also grab a bestseller to read during the flight, or take advantage of the free Wi-Fi to catch up on work or stream entertainment. Make the most of your time at the airport and relax before your journey begins.

Arrival tips for Cairns

Cairns is served by several airports. Once you’ve collected your baggage, it’s a good idea to ensure your phone has an active internet connection before leaving the airport. If you require a local SIM card, airport shops are a convenient option, although they may come at a slightly higher price compared to stores in the city.

In addition to staying connected, take a moment to plan your transportation to your accommodation. Whether you choose a taxi, public transportation, or a pre-booked shuttle, it's best to know your options ahead of time. Airport staff at can assist you with recommendations and details at the information desk, helping you find the easiest and most convenient way to reach your destination.

Booking your flight from Melbourne to Cairns

Booking your cheap flights with eDreams is straightforward and user-friendly. Start by entering Melbourne and Cairns as your departure and arrival cities. Then, select your travel dates and initiate the search. Our advanced search engine will sift through thousands of routes and flight combinations to present you with the best deals available.

To make your search even easier, take advantage of our ‘Smart Choice’ feature. This option highlights the most competitive flights at the top of the results, ensuring you find great value quickly. Additionally, you can refine your search by applying filters to view only flights to a specific airport, with your preferred airlines. This customization helps you narrow down your options based on your specific preferences, making it simple to find the perfect flight for your trip.

How to take advantage of flight price updates

Flight fares are determined by a sophisticated pricing algorithm that considers demand and seat availability. Consequently, the price of your flight may change while you’re booking. To lock in the best rate for your trip to Cairns, book your ticket as soon as you find a fare that fits your budget.

Exclusive discounts for Prime member's

As an eDreams Prime member, you'll unlock exclusive deals and save significantly on flights, hotels, and car rentals, plus enjoy a range of additional benefits. Become part of the world’s largest travel membership community and explore all the perks that come with eDreams Prime.

Finding last-minute deals with eDreams

eDreams provides a variety of last-minute flight options at competitive rates. Although these flights can sometimes be pricier, especially during peak travel periods in Australia, we offer a selection of choices to meet your needs. To improve your chances of securing a better deal, consider being flexible with your travel dates.

Check in before your flight

Online check-in usually opens 24 to 48 hours before the departure time. Once your booking with eDreams is completed, we’ll email you one week before your day of departure with instructions on how to check in for your flight.

Tips for early check-in with eDreams:

1. Use the eDreams check-in feature: Log in to your eDreams account and navigate to your booking details. Many times, you can check in directly through our platform, streamlining the process and ensuring you don’t miss your check-in window.
2. Receive notifications: Ensure you have notifications enabled for your eDreams account. We’ll send you reminders about your flight, including when check-in is available, so you can complete it as soon as possible.
3. Review your booking details: Double-check your booking details and travel documents in your eDreams account. Ensuring everything is correct can prevent issues during check-in and help you get through the process smoothly.

Best season to travel to Cairns

Australia offers a wealth of experiences, from its rich culinary scene and vibrant culture to its breathtaking natural landscapes. The best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and schedule. Consider factors such as the climate, peak tourist periods, and the type of experience you want.

During peak season, expect larger crowds and a bustling atmosphere with abundant cultural and tourist activities. Traveling during the off-season can offer a quieter experience, with fewer tourists, lower prices on flights and accommodations, and a more authentic look at local life. While some outdoor activities might be limited by weather, popular attractions will generally be less crowded, providing a more immersive experience.

The weather in Cairns

The weather in Cairns changes with the seasons. Be sure to pack accordingly to the season you are going to travel. Also, remember to bring an umbrella—it can offer UV protection on sunny days as well!

Best things to do in Cairns

Discover the vibrant charm of Cairns with a wide range of activities for all interests. Whether you're drawn to iconic landmarks, rich historical sites, or diverse cultural experiences, there's something for every traveler to enjoy.

Immerse yourself in the city's heritage by exploring renowned landmarks and museums, and savor the diverse cuisine of Australia. If outdoor adventures are more, your style, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the stunning natural landscapes of Australia. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the city offers something special for everyone.

How many days to visit Cairns

To fully experience Cairns, 3 to 7 days should be sufficient. This timeframe allows you to explore major attractions and take in the city’s atmosphere at a comfortable pace. If you have extra time, you can delve into the most authentic neighborhoods, enjoy the local culinary scene, and unwind by strolling through its pedestrian areas.

Car rental to move around Cairns

Renting a car in Cairns is a fantastic way to explore beyond the city limits at your own pace. It allows you to customize your itinerary based on your schedule and budget, especially if you plan to stay in the country for more than a week.

Book your flight from Melbourne to Cairns

Discover unbeatable flight deals on eDreams. To complete your booking, simply select your travel dates, choose a hotel, and secure a fantastic car rental. Don’t delay—reserve your affordable flight from Melbourne to Cairns today!

At eDreams, we offer comprehensive information on over 155,000 flight routes, 690 airlines, 2.1 million hotels worldwide, and 40,000 destinations. Our extensive range of vacation packages can help you save significantly on your next journey.

Take advantage of this chance to snag an excellent deal for your upcoming trip—book your flight now!

Frequently asked questions about flights from Melbourne to Cairns

What are the benefits of booking flexible flight tickets?

Using the flexible flight ticket, you're guaranteed a refund or a rebooking option (without fees) in case of flight cancellations when travelling to Australia. At eDreams have you covered!

For flights from Melbourne to Cairns, how can I find the cheapest price?

The cheapest price for a flight from Melbourne to Cairns is $71. At eDreams we use different machine learned based methodologies to find our costumers the best option available, considering airline combinations, stopovers and direct flights as well as different criteria for inbound and outbound journeys.

Is Cairns more expensive than Melbourne to visit?

Looking at cab fares, a ride in Cairns costs about $ 6.22 USD, 82% more expensive than Melbourne, with a fare of $ 3.42 USD, while train tickets cost 6% less at Cairns: $ 3.11 USD versus $ 3.30 USD at Melbourne. Comparing the price of a meal, they range from 14.63 USD euros in Cairns, 6% less than the 15.56 USD euros in Melbourne. The price of the coffee is around 16% more expensive in Cairns, with an average of 3.89 USD , while in Melbourne the coffee costs 3.36 USD.

When booking, when is the best time to get the best prices for flights from Melbourne to Cairns?

The most popular months to book a trip from Melbourne to Cairns are January, September and February, based on the searches of our customers.

When is the best time to travel from Melbourne to Cairns?

The best time of the year to visit Cairns depends on lots of personal preferences, especially the price. Regarding popularity, July is the best month to fly to Cairns from Melbourne in terms of searches from our customers, followed by December and June. If you prefer to avoid the busy season and get away from the crowds August, October and May are the months with fewer searches for Melbourne - Cairns.

How long does the flight from Melbourne to Cairns take?

Flight length from Melbourne to Cairns is around 03:25 hours on average, at an average distance of 2,335 km, for flights for the route (which may have 1 or more stops in other cities in between).

Which airports have flights between Melbourne and Cairns?

The main route from Melbourne to Cairns is: Melbourne Airport (MEL) to Cairns International Airport (CNS). The following airlines fly this route: Jetstar. Virgin Australia.

The airlines that fly indirectly from Melbourne to Cairns are:

Virgin Australia, stopping at Brisbane during at least 60 minutes.

Jetstar, with 145 minutes of layover in Sydney.
Virgin Australia, with 85 minutes scale in Sydney.

Flying Time 3 h and 25 m When flying from Melbourne to Cairns, this can take around 3 h and 25 m in flying time, however this flight duration can vary due to other factors

Cheapest flight $71 The best price for flights from Melbourne to Cairns offered by eDreams, which have been found by our customers in the last 3 days

Departure Airport Melbourne Airport Melbourne Airport is where you'll take off when flying from Melbourne to Cairns

Arrival Airport Cairns International Airport You'll land at Cairns International Airport when flying from Melbourne to Cairns