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Planning a trip to Cairns and wondering how to spend your time? You’re in the right place!
We’ve visited Cairns multiple times and over the years have found all the best things to do, and more importantly, what to skip. Whether it’s underwater adventures, tropical rainforest escapes, or sunset cruises along the coast, we’re here to make sure you get the most out of your visit.
We’ve put together this detailed 3-day Cairns itinerary filled with our favorite experiences, eats, and hidden gems. So even if you’re here for just a quick trip, you can make the most of your time! Follow this plan and you’ll see the very best of what Cairns has to offer.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this full-day Great Barrier Reef cruise! Whether you’re here to snorkel or dive, this cruise and crew made this experience seamless, so you can simply take in the beauty.
Check out the 2,800+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
One of the things we love about Cairns is that it’s flat and easy to walk around. This makes getting around a breeze, and even if you don’t feel like walking, there’s great public transportation, and rideshare apps like Uber are easily accessible.
That also means your next three days will be stress-free as you bounce from activity to activity, like the Cairns Lagoon, aquarium, or jetboating. And even if an activity is located outside of town, transportation is often included, so you don’t have to worry about renting and driving a car.
Day 1: Your first day starts with an unforgettable snorkeling and diving cruise to the Great Barrier Reef, followed by an evening tasting your way around the Cairns Night Markets. To top it all off, you will end the night at one of the best cocktail bars in town.
Day 2: You can opt to take a trip to Cape Tribulation and other top outdoor sights, or ride the scenic railway to the village of Kuranda. Both get you out into nature, but the first highlights Australia’s Aboriginal culture while the other is more focused on local wildlife like koalas.
Day 3: We’re going to slow things down on day three, but there’s still a ton to look forward to. You’ll start with a relaxing visit to Cairns Lagoon (no crocs!), then have a choice of going to a botanical garden, art museum, aquarium, or jetboating. But the real highlight is at the end of the day, when you go on a sunset dinner catamaran cruise!
Day 1
Morning/Afternoon – Explore the Great Barrier Reef on a superyacht
Today’s snorkeling and diving tour of the Great Barrier Reef starts bright and early at 8 am, so get up with enough time to grab a quick breakfast (lunch is served on the boat) and make your way to the meeting point. You’ll be getting back around 4:30 pm, so pack some extra snacks if you get the munchies like I do.
We opted for the snorkeling and scuba diving tour, but you can always choose the snorkel-only option or an introductory dive if you’re not PADI certified.
In the morning, we boarded a sleek superyacht and cruised out to two outer reef locations, where we had the best time snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. It was truly breathtaking, and the dive site was even better. Everywhere we looked, there was something incredible to see, from coral formations to curious turtles gliding right by us. It was so exciting!
The crew, including our dive instructor, Jack, was very well-organized and made us feel super safe. Jack was very patient and so knowledgeable about the reef, and we learned a ton from him.
Towards the end of the tour, we also enjoyed an amazing barbecue on board. The seafood was amazing, but there were plenty of veggie and vegan options, so no worries on that front. We also enjoyed a complimentary glass of Australian wine as we sailed back towards the shore, which was the perfect note to end on.
This tour is truly a top-tier way to experience the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or only want to snorkel, I truly cannot recommend this tour enough. It’s a truly breathtaking experience and hands down THE best thing to do in Cairns.
Check out the THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Evening/Dinner – Visit the Cairns Night Markets
After a full day at the Great Barrier Reef, head back to your hotel for a quick freshen-up before diving into a different kind of adventure, a food one! The Cairns Night Markets come alive every evening from 4:30 pm to 11 pm and are perfect for dinner and a bit of laid-back exploring. There’s no shortage of delicious options here, but our top pick is Pho Street for authentic bowls of Vietnamese pho. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth like us, don’t miss Churro Time for dessert.
If you’re in the mood for a more traditional sit-down dinner, walk just two minutes over to Villa Romana, a lovely waterfront Italian restaurant with great pasta and views to match. Once dinner is done, head back to the markets to browse the many shops. There’s everything from unique souvenirs to fun local finds.
Night Cap – Whiskey and Wine by Crystalbrook
After the markets, head just next door to Whiskey and Wine by Crystalbrook for a nightcap at one of the best watering holes in town. This rooftop bar is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and relaxed, upscale atmosphere. It also makes for some great Insta-worthy photo opportunities!
Day 2
For your second day in Cairns, you have two incredible tour options depending on your travel style. Nature lovers can dive into the wild beauty of Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and the Daintree Rainforest, complete with a river cruise and insights into Aboriginal culture. For a more relaxed, scenic day, ride the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway to a rainforest village where you can explore markets and get up close to wildlife like koalas and kangaroos.
Option 1 – Day trip to Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge, and the Daintree Rainforest
If you want to see both the lush green beauty and rich cultural heritage of Tropical North Queensland, this day trip will absolutely deliver. It’s perfect for adventure lovers who want an in-depth rainforest experience you can’t get anywhere else.
The day began with a visit to Mossman Gorge, where we got to take part in a traditional smoke ceremony with the Kuku Yalanji people. It was an amazing way to connect with the heritage of North Queensland and dive deep into the Aboriginal culture. We then explored the gorge itself, which was like visiting a land before time, and we even got to go swimming here.
Once we’d dried off, we made our way to Daintree Village, where we had a hearty lunch before we embarked on a wildlife cruise along the river. We were lucky enough to spot a couple of crocodiles basking in the sun, which was thrilling – and just a little scary!
The last stop of the day was at Thornton’s Beach, which is where the rainforest turns into a white sand beach! It was gorgeous, quiet, and felt a little more wild somehow than the beaches close to Cairns.
This tour was a real adventure, and we totally understand why it has so many fantastic views. We were totally wowed by the wild beauty of Queensland, and we loved learning more about the region’s rich cultural history. We weren’t the only ones – see the glowing reviews here!
Book this tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
Option 2 – Take the scenic railway to the village of Kuranda
If you’re traveling with kids or just want a more relaxed day with lots of variety, this full-day trip to Kuranda is the perfect pick! It’s less about trekking through the jungle and more about soaking up stunning views, visiting wildlife parks, and enjoying the charming rainforest village of Kuranda at your own pace.
Our day started with the iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway, and the journey itself was a highlight. We passed by dramatic waterfalls, lush rainforest, and mountain vistas. Once in Kuranda, we had free time to explore and loved how many options there were.
Our favorites were Birdworld and the Koala Gardens (tickets not included), and if you’ve been dying to meet a koala in person, this is the perfect opportunity to do so! There’s also the Butterfly Sanctuary, boutique shops, local markets, and plenty of cafes if you just want to chill.
The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway was our ride home, and honestly, it was the most jaw-dropping part of the day. Floating high above the treetops with endless views of the rainforest and the Coral Sea was unforgettable. This tour is incredibly well-run, easygoing, and packed with variety.
Don’t miss out – book this tour here before it sells out!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Salt House
Tonight, you get to treat yourself to dinner at Salt House, one of Cairns’ most iconic waterfront restaurants. This upscale yet casual spot has a beautiful open-air setting right on the marina, making it perfect for winding down with a view. The seafood here is a standout (we loved the barramundi!), and their cocktails are just as impressive. It’s a popular spot, especially in the evening, so we definitely recommend booking ahead.
Evening – Stroll along the esplanade
Since you’re already on the waterfront, finish your night with a relaxing stroll along the Cairns Esplanade boardwalk. The views are especially beautiful in the evening, and if you’re craving a sweet treat, grab a scoop from Just Divine Gelato. Or, if you’re up for one last highlight, ride the Reef Eye Ferris Wheel for a stunning panoramic view of Cairns illuminated at night.
Day 3
Breakfast – Bang & Grind, The Esplanade
Besides the sunset dinner cruise at 6 pm, there’s nowhere you need to be today (although we have some suggestions), so you can get up early to fit in a few extra bonus activities or sleep in for a slower start. Regardless, we recommend beginning your morning at Bang & Grind, The Esplanade.
This laid-back café is just a short walk from the Cairns Lagoon and is known for its strong, expertly brewed coffee. The breakfast menu is packed with creative dishes made from fresh local ingredients. We especially loved the smashed avo and their rotating specials. It’s a great way to fuel up for whatever pace you choose for your final day in Cairns.
Morning – Relax at Cairns Lagoon
After breakfast, you’re perfectly positioned to relax at the Cairns Lagoon just a few steps away along the Esplanade. This massive 4,800-square-metre saltwater swimming lagoon is right on the oceanfront and offers safe, stinger and crocodile-free swimming year-round. It also has showers and changing rooms!
It’s completely free to visit and has plenty of space to stretch out with a book, go for a dip, or just soak up the tropical vibes. We stayed here for a few hours, which made for the most relaxing, leisurely morning!
Lunch – Milky Lane Cairns
After you’ve finished up at the Lagoon walk, just nine minutes down the Esplanade to Milky Lane Cairns for a fun and flavorful lunch. This hip-hop-themed restaurant serves up some of the most inventive burgers in town—think over-the-top toppings, loaded sides, and unique cocktails to match. The spot is neon lit, bold, and totally different from your typical burger joint, making it a memorable stop before the rest of your day kicks off.
Afternoon – Your Choice!
Depending on when you got up and how long you spent at the lagoon, you might have time for one or multiple of the activities below. Just make sure to leave yourself time to get back to your hotel, freshen up, and then to the docks for tonight’s sunset dinner cruise!
Cairns Aquarium
Just a 7-minute walk from lunch, the Cairns Aquarium is a fantastic way to cool off indoors or escape a rainy afternoon. It showcases over 16,000 animals native to Tropical North Queensland, including reef sharks, sea turtles, and even freshwater sawfish. The immersive exhibits offer a close-up look at both reef and rainforest ecosystems, and it’s fun and educational for all ages. This is a great option if you’re traveling with kids, or if you’re just a marine life lover!
It can get pretty busy here, so we recommend grabbing your admission tickets in advance to save time and ensure your entry!
Cairns Botanic Gardens
If you’d rather get back into nature, hop in a taxi/Uber for a short 15-minute ride to the Cairns Botanic Gardens. Entry is free, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush tropical plants and peaceful walking paths. For those wanting a bit more activity, the Red Arrow Trail starts just 5 minutes from the gardens and takes about 40 minutes to an hour to complete. The hike offers great exercise and rewarding views over the city and coastline. A great way to stretch your legs before tonight’s farewell.
Go jetboating
Feeling adventurous? Head out on a high-speed Cairns jet boat ride! Departing just a 10-minute walk (or 7-minute drive) from lunch, this adrenaline-pumping activity is one of the most popular things to do in the harbor for good reason. With multiple afternoon departure times, it’s easy to fit into your day and is definitely the most exciting way to cool off!
Visit the Cairns Art Gallery
If you’re after something a little more low-key, stroll just 3 minutes from Milky Lane to the Cairns Art Gallery. Housed in a beautiful heritage building, the gallery features contemporary and Indigenous Australian art, often with rotating exhibitions that reflect the local culture and environment. It’s free to enter and makes for a quiet break in the heart of the city.
Evening/Dinner – Go on a sunset dinner cruise
There’s no better way to wrap up your time in Cairns than with this Sunset Dinner Cruise. It offers a relaxed, scenic evening that is the perfect reward after a few big days of exploring. The cruise departs at 6 pm and lasts about three hours, taking you through the calm waters of Trinity Inlet with views of the city, mountains, and coastline. Watching the sun set over the water while the lights of Cairns slowly came to life was such a cool experience, and it didn’t require any extra effort, just show up and enjoy!
What we really appreciated was how smooth and well-organized the evening was. From check-in to boarding, everything ran on time and felt stress-free. Once onboard, we were able to settle in, grab a drink, and just relax as the boat started its journey around the harbor.
The buffet dinner had more variety than we expected, with plenty of options including seafood, salads, and hot mains. We definitely went back for seconds! There’s also a fully stocked bar, and the cocktails were surprisingly good for a boat cruise. Live music played in the background—just enough to set the mood without overpowering conversation.
One of our favorite parts was hanging out on the open-air deck after dinner, drink in hand, watching the city lights reflect off the water. It felt like such a peaceful and satisfying way to end the trip. If you’re looking for something memorable but low-key to cap off your time in Cairns, this cruise is 100% worth it.
Book this tour here and get FREE cancellation before you depart!
Related Read: If you find yourself with extra time, check out our 10 Best Things to do in Cairns blog to experience even more epic activities!
Where to Stay in Cairns
Now that you know how to spend three days in Cairns, you need somewhere perfect to stay! Luckily, there are a lot of great options here, and they are all pretty affordable, even for a waterfront location. Below, I’ve picked out three excellent options to help narrow down your search!
Luxury – $$$
Crystalbrook Flynn is a 5-star luxury hotel, located right near the water. You can opt for rooms with harbor or city views, and they range in size from twin to 2-bedroom suites. The modern design, amenities, and top-tier staff make this a luxury stay. I can’t forget about the two different pools and three restaurants, too!
Rooms start around $300 AUD and can be booked on Booking.com.
Mid-range- $$
Sunshine Tower Hotel is conveniently located in central Cairns, but has a great outdoor area and mountain views. This is a very comfortable mid-budget hotel, rooms are spacious and clean, and you can enjoy the onsite pool and restaurants. They offer a range of room options, from standard hotel rooms to full apartments, some with a balcony, pool views, or ocean views.
Prices start at $160 AUD – check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
If you’re traveling on a budget, Dreamtime Hostel is my top choice! This hostel is located in central Cairns and has a very laid-back vibe, perfect for those who are looking to relax more than party. It’s a clean, eco-friendly, locally owned hostel with lots of local recommendations. They offer dorm rooms starting at about $50 AUD per night, or private rooms for about $100 AUD per night.
Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
For more options, check out all the hotels in Cairns here!
Renting a Car, Campervan, or Motorhome in Australia
With many must-see destinations in Australia outside city limits, one of the best ways to get around is driving yourself!
Australia is a huge country and traveling between cities or getting to some of the most scenic spots requires driving. While public transit is sometimes an option, it often adds a lot of time. Plus, we love the freedom to stop wherever we want and not have to stick to a set schedule.
You have three options: a car, a campervan, or a motorhome. Here’s what you need to know about each and where to get them:
- Car – A rental car is the most affordable option – especially if you choose a smaller vehicle. It gets you to all of the best destinations with ease. The only downside to a car is that you will need to stay in hotels along the way (no camping). The easiest place to rent a car in Australia is on DiscoverCars.com where you can compare cars, companies, prices, features, and more very easily.
- Campervan – A Campervan is a large van with a bed and a small kitchen in the back. It’s what many budget travelers use to get around Australia since it allows you to camp comfortably and for free (most) nights. Campervans are best for couples or solo travelers who are happy to live in a small space. You should also love the outdoors and camping…and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime! My favorite campervan rental company is JUCY because they have a huge selection of campervans to choose from, plus multiple pick-up/drop-off locations. You can browse JUCY’s campervan selection online here.
- Motorhome – A motorhome is larger and more comfortable than a campervan. Many motorhomes will comfortably sleep 6 or more people – perfect for a family visiting Australia. Motorhomes are the most expensive option, but with one you won’t ever need to stay in a hotel and you’ll save money that way. My top choice for a motorhome company is Star RV because they have beautiful motorhomes at affordable prices. You can check prices and availability for Star RV motorhomes online here. For more detailed info, read my complete guide to renting a motorhome in Australia!
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT CODE: We’ve managed to snag a discount code for 5% off for our readers if you book your campervan or motorhome through JUCY or Star RV! Simply click here to select your JUCY campervan, or click here to select your Star RV motorhome, and then use the code DTRAVEL25 at checkout to get 5% off – it’s that easy!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Visiting Carins is a bucket list destination for many ocean-loving travelers! However, we were happy to discover even more about the city than the Great Barrier Reef. From night markets to charming waterfront drinks and day trips that showed Queensland’s incredible beauty, we loved our three days in Cairns!
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out our other Australia blogs! As an Australian myself, I’ve had the chance to travel all over the country and put together guides on our favorite places and experiences. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next trip – cheers!
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