Ultimate 6-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Cairns, Australia

Day 1: Cairns Exploration

Cairns, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffiend

Kickstart your day with the café's renowned avocado toast and a cup of their specialty coffee.
Located in the heart of Cairns, easy to access by foot.
AUD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cairns Esplanade Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Cairns Esplanade, enjoying the stunning views and art installations.
Start at the Esplanade Lagoon area and walk north along the waterfront.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Cairns Botanic Gardens

Explore the rich flora and tropical landscapes of one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens.
Drive or take a short taxi ride, approximately 5 minutes from the Esplanade.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Rusty's Markets

Savor fresh, local produce and grab a bite at the vibrant market; try the homemade spring rolls.
Head to the city’s center, about a 10-minute drive.
AUD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Snorkeling Tour at Green Island

Explore the Great Barrier Reef with a snorkeling adventure, discovering vibrant marine life.
Catch a ferry from Cairns Marina, a short drive from the lunch spot.
AUD150, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Ochre Restaurant

Indulge in a fine dining experience featuring local Australian dishes made from fresh ingredients.
Return to Cairns and walk to the restaurant, 15-minute stroll.
AUD60, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Port Douglas Adventure

Port Douglas, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Little Larder

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with a variety of options, their eggs benedict are highly recommended.
Start your drive to Port Douglas, which is about 1 hour north of Cairns.
AUD25, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Four Mile Beach Relaxation

Spend a couple of hours unwinding on the stunning Four Mile Beach, soaking in the sun or going for a swim.
The beach is just a short walk from the breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Tin Shed

Dine at this local favorite offering a range of seafood and Australian dishes with stunning marina views.
Take a short 5-minute drive to the lunch spot.
AUD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Mossman Gorge

Explore the lush rainforest with stunning views and take a guided walking tour to learn about the Indigenous heritage.
A 20-minute drive from Port Douglas to Mossman Gorge.
AUD20, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Salsa Bar & Grill

Enjoy dinner with a twist of Caribbean flavor and fresh local produce.
Return to Port Douglas (20-minute drive).
AUD50, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Daintree Rainforest Expedition

Daintree Rainforest, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a variety of continental breakfast options at your Port Douglas accommodation.
Most accommodations offer breakfast included.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Daintree Rainforest Guided Tour

Embark on a guided tour in the ancient Daintree Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Drive from Port Douglas to Daintree Rainforest, about 30 minutes.
AUD100, 4 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Daintree

Pack a picnic to enjoy within the stunning landscape of Daintree, surrounded by ancient trees.
Perfect to eat wherever you feel inspired within the forest.
AUD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Cape Tribulation

Explore the meeting point of the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef with its breathtaking scenery.
Drive 30 minutes from Daintree Rainforest to Cape Tribulation.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Port Douglas

Head back to Port Douglas for a relaxing evening.
A 30-minute drive.
Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Beach Chalet

Dine on the beachfront enjoying modern Australian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
Walk from your hotel to the restaurant, just a few minutes away.
AUD45, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Kuranda Scenic Day

Kuranda, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Café

Fuel your energy with hearty pancakes or a classic brekkie at this casual café in Kuranda.
Drive back to Cairns (about 30 minutes) and take the scenic rail or kuranda skyrail.
AUD30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Kuranda Scenic Railway

Take an incredible train journey through the rainforest to Kuranda, experiencing stunning views.
Catch the train from Cairns station (30-minute drive).
AUD125, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore Kuranda Village

Discover the local shops, markets, and art galleries in the charming Kuranda Village.
The village is just a short walk from the train station.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Kuranda Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed meal on the terrace overlooking the rainforest.
About a 10-minute walk from the village market.
AUD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Experience an unforgettable ride over the rainforest canopy with stunning views of the scenery below.
Located near AT jungle talk, follow the signs.
AUD130, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Cairns

Wrap up your day and head back to Cairns, reflecting on your adventure.
Take the Skyrail back down or drive (30-minute drive).
Free, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Raw Prawn

Indulge in a variety of fresh seafood dishes in a casual beachside atmosphere.
Located close to Cairns Esplanade.
AUD55, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Atherton Tablelands Tour

Atherton Tablelands, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Grab a quick breakfast before heading out to explore the stunning landscapes of the Atherton Tablelands.
Enjoy your hotel breakfast for convenience.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Atherton Tablelands

Set off on your scenic drive to the Tablelands, taking in the breathtaking views along the way.
The drive takes about 1 hour from Cairns.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Curtain Fig Tree

Marvel at the impressive and iconic fig tree, which is a must-see in the Tablelands region.
Located along the short drive from the main road.
Free, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Lake Eacham Swimming

Take a refreshing dip in the beautiful crater lake known for its crystal-clear waters.
A brief 15-minute drive from the Curtain Fig Tree.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Lake Barrine Tea House

Relax and have lunch surrounded by nature, sampling fresh cakes and scones.
About 20 minutes from Lake Eacham.
AUD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Millaa Millaa Falls

Stop to see the iconic waterfall famous for its beauty; perfect for photos!
A 30-minute drive from the tea house.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Cairns

Drive back to Cairns, reflecting on the beauty of the Tablelands.
About an hour's drive.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Epiphany Cafe

Treat yourself to a fusion of flavors; their dinner menu features modern Australian cuisine with an innovative twist.
Located in the heart of Cairns.
AUD50, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Cairns Relaxation and Departure

Cairns, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Cairns with options catered to your taste at the hotel.
Convenient for an easy morning.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Last-minute Shopping at Cairns Central

Visit the local shops and markets for souvenirs to take home.
Just a short drive or walk from your hotel.
Varies, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sky Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful lunch with views over Cairns, featuring delicious local dishes.
Located at Cairns' Esplanade, just a quick drive.
AUD45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

Discover the rich Aboriginal culture through performances, art, and workshops.
A short 15-minute drive from the lunch spot.
AUD80, 2 hours

5:00PM

Departure from Cairns

Return your rental car and head to the airport for your departure, reflecting on an unforgettable journey.
Drive back to Cairns Airport, approximately 20 minutes from Tjapukai.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability