7 days in Cairns, Australia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Cairns, Australia: a city that leaves every visitor breathless and spoiling for more. You may be pondering what’s so special about this city down under? Well, my friends, Cairns is the vibrant, tropical doorway to the Great Barrier Reef, home to lush rainforests, and the stunning Daintree National Park. Swap your daily hustle for the golden sandy beaches or take a leap of faith with the thrilling adventure activities; Cairns truly has it all.
Things to consider before arriving in Cairns
Outdoor lovers, rejoice! Cairns is a haven for adventure enthusiasts and nature buffs alike. Brace yourself for lush forests, beaches, and marine wonders.
Do you fancy cultural immersion? The city offers an insight into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
However, if the heat and humidity are not your cup of tea, Cairns could prove uncomfortable during the summer.
Cairns is perfect for backpackers, families, and couples seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.
What to bring with you
Pack your sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and lightweight clothing to battle the tropical temperatures. Don’t forget your swimwear and a beach towel for the beautiful beaches and snorkeling opportunities. Lastly, a sturdy pair of hiking shoes will come in handy to explore the rainforests and trails around Cairns.
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Cairns is from May to October when the temperatures are mild, and humidity levels drop significantly. This also coincides with the peak tourist season, so book ahead to secure the best deals!
How to get into the city
✈️ Fly into Cairns Airport, the city’s international gateway. Airlines like Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar offer frequent connections to major Australian cities and international destinations.
Travel by train for a scenic journey along the Queensland coast. The Spirit of Queensland train runs between Cairns and Brisbane, with stops in Townsville and Rockhampton.
Greyhound Australia operates coach services that connect Cairns with various cities, including Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. It’s an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.
7 day Cairns trip
Day 1: The Great Barrier Reef
Start your day early with a breakfast at Brother Jenkins coffee house before heading to the Great Barrier Reef. Spend the day snorkeling and diving among the coral and colorful fish. Lunch will be served on the boat, and after a full day out on the reef, return to Cairns and grab a bite at Salt House, a waterfront bar and restaurant.
Day 2: Kuranda Rainforest
Take the scenic route by hopping on the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the quaint town nestled in the heart of the rainforest. Explore the markets, visit the butterfly sanctuary and take a tour on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. After a day of exploring, grab a bite at Frogs Restaurant, with delicious and unique dishes such as kangaroo, crocodile or emu.
Day 3: Cape Tribulation
Wake up early for a full-day tour to Cape Tribulation in the Daintree Rainforest. Go for a hike in the jungle and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mossman Gorge. Lunch will be enjoyed in the picturesque town of Port Douglas. End the day with a sunset view and dinner at Ochre Restaurant, where you can try dishes with local bush tucker ingredients.
Day 4: Tjapukai Cultural Park
Immerse yourself in the Aboriginal culture at Tjapukai Cultural Park. Learn about the Dreamtime, enjoy a spear-throwing demonstration, and watch traditional dances before heading to lunch at Barassi’s Restaurant. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the beautiful Palm Cove Beach with yummy fish and chips from Choc Dee’s.
Day 5: Atherton Tablelands
Take a day trip to the beautiful Atherton Tablelands. Stop by Millaa Millaa Falls, visit a dairy farm and taste locally made cheeses, and go for a swim in Lake Eacham, a crater lake in a volcanic area. Have lunch at the Barefoot Café for a relaxed and delicious meal.
Day 6: Cairns Botanic Gardens
Spend the day in Cairns exploring the Botanic Gardens. Admire the wide variety of flora, including the remarkable carnivorous plants and the rainforest boardwalk. Afterward, head to Rusty’s Market to enjoy local fresh fruits, vegetables, and snacks. End the day with some hot pizzas at the cozy Caffé Suprimo.
Day 7: Beach day
Relax on the iconic Cairns Esplanade Lagoon and take a dip in the ocean in the afternoon at Holloway’s beach. Enjoy a final dinner at the iconic Prawn Star for some delicious seafood.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Cairns
Port Douglas
Take a one-hour drive up north and visit the beautiful coastal town of Port Douglas. Go for a hike in Mossman Gorge & Daintree rainforest to see amazing wildlife and keep an eye out for crocodiles. Relax on the stunning Four Mile Beach or watch the sunset at Rex Smeal Park. Don’t forget to stop by Salsa Bar and Grill for dinner.
Airlie Beach
Travel south to Airlie Beach and take a boat tour to the iconic Whitsundays Islands. Go snorkelling and explore the underwater world, relax on the white-sand beaches, and hike to the stunning Hill Inlet lookout. After a long day, grab some fresh seafood at Fish D’vine and Rum Bar.
Remember to book in advance as these places tend to get busy during peak season.
