3-Day Budget Adventure in Cairns, Australia

Day 1: Explore Cairns

Cairns, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tafe Queensland

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Tafe Queensland, where you can find affordable, delicious meals prepared by culinary students.
Located in the heart of Cairns, easily reachable on foot.
AUD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

Take a stroll by the Cairns Esplanade, enjoying the beautiful lagoon and scenic views of the ocean while soaking in the sun.
A short 5-minute walk from the breakfast spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Cairns Night Markets

Visit the Cairns Night Markets for unique local souvenirs and enjoy street performances.
Hop on a local bus to the markets; it’s about a 15-minute ride.
Free entry; budget AUD20 for snacks., 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Night Markets

Grab lunch from one of the many food stalls offering affordable bites from around the world.
Located within the Night Markets.
AUD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Cairns Botanic Gardens

Explore the lush landscapes of the Cairns Botanic Gardens, a perfect spot for nature lovers on a budget.
Catch a local bus from the Night Markets, approximately 20-minutes.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Raw Prawn

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at The Raw Prawn, known for its fresh seafood.
Take a bus back to the Esplanade, a 20-minute journey.
AUD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Daintree Rainforest

Daintree Rainforest, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at Oregano

Fuel up with a filling and affordable breakfast at Oregano Café in Cairns.
Located about a 10-minute walk from the accommodation.
AUD12, 1 hour

8:30AM

Daintree Rainforest day trip

Take a guided budget-friendly tour to the breathtaking Daintree Rainforest with picturesque views and stunning wildlife.
Tours can be booked online; travel by organized shuttle bus.
AUD90, 8 hours (includes travel time)

5:00PM

Dinner at the Daintree Village Hotel

Enjoy a budget meal featuring local ingredients while soaking in the rustic atmosphere.
Part of the tour package often includes this stop.
AUD15, 1 hour

6:30PM

Return to Cairns

Travel back to Cairns, taking in the sunset along the way.
Organized shuttle from the day trip.
Included in tour cost, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Great Barrier Reef Adventure

Cairns, Australia

6:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Start your adventure with a budget-friendly breakfast at The Breakfast Club, famous for its hearty meals.
About a 10-minute walk from central Cairns.
AUD14, 1 hour

7:30AM

Great Barrier Reef Tour

Embark on a budget snorkelling tour of the Great Barrier Reef, which includes equipment and lunch.
Book online; transport to the marina provided by the tour operator.
AUD100, 8 hours

4:30PM

Return to Cairns and explore the local shops

After your reef adventure, wander around Cairns and shop for souvenirs or gifts.
The marina is an easy walk back to the city center.
Free entry; budget AUD30 for souvenirs., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Chili's Mexican Grill

Wrap up your trip with a casual dinner at Chili's, offering affordable and delicious Mexican dishes.
Located a short 10-minute walk from the shopping area.
AUD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability