What is the exact distance from Brisbane to Cairns?

The driving distance from Brisbane to Cairns is 1701 kilometers (1057 miles). The straight-line distance is 1389 km.

How long does it take to drive from Brisbane to Cairns?

The estimated driving time from Brisbane to Cairns is 19.5 hours under normal traffic conditions. This can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and your driving speed.

What is the fastest route from Brisbane to Cairns?

The fastest route is typically 1701km and takes about 19.5 hours. This route is optimized for time and usually uses major highways and roads.

Are there alternative routes from Brisbane to Cairns?

Yes, we provide up to 2 different route options including the fastest route, shortest distance route, and alternative paths that may offer different scenery or avoid certain road types.

Does the route from Brisbane to Cairns include tolls?

Yes, some routes from Brisbane to Cairns may include toll roads. Check the detailed route information below for specific toll road indicators.

Can I get turn-by-turn directions from Brisbane to Cairns?

While we provide the route overview and key information, for detailed turn-by-turn directions, we recommend using the route data with your preferred GPS navigation app or mapping service.

Brisbane to Cairns Distance

1057 miles•1701 km•19.5 hours

Driving distance and route information from Brisbane, Australiato Cairns, Australia. Compare multiple routes and get detailed travel information.

⭐

FASTEST ROUTE

1056.74 mi

(1700.66 km)

⏱️19h 33m

Via Ann Street, M3

Ann Street → M3

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏

SHORTEST ROUTE

1151.75 mi

(1853.57 km)

⏱️20h 52m

Via Ann Street, M3

Ann Street → M3

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏 Straight-line distance: 863 miles (1389 km)

See crow flies distance →

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Complete Driving Guide: Brisbane to Cairns

Essential Route Information

TOTAL DISTANCE

1057 mi

1701 kilometers

DRIVING TIME

19.5 hours

1170 minutes

FUEL ESTIMATE

142 L

$213 cost

📍 Route Overview

Starting PointBrisbane, Queensland

DestinationCairns, Queensland

Route Options2 available routes

Countries Crossed1 country

Time Zone ChangesCheck local times

🚗 Driving Details

Average Speed87 km/h

Straight-line Distance1389 km

Route Efficiency82%

Toll RoadsYes - Budget required

Ferry CrossingsNo ferries

Compare All Routes from Brisbane to Cairns

Route Type	Distance	Drive Time	Avg Speed	Tolls
⭐ Fastest Route	1057 mi (1701 km)	19.5 hours	87 km/h	✅ Yes
Alternative 1	1152 mi (1854 km)	20.9 hours	89 km/h	✅ Yes

Complete Journey Overview: Brisbane to Cairns

The road journey from Brisbane to Cairns spans approximately 1057 miles (1701 kilometers), making it a long-distance drive that typically requires 19.5 hours of continuous driving under normal traffic conditions.

This route connects Queensland, Australia with Queensland, Australia, traversing through various regions within Australia. The journey offers 2 distinct routing options, each with unique advantages in terms of distance, time, or scenic value.

The most efficient route from Brisbane to Cairns follows major highways and arterial roads, maintaining an average speed of approximately 87 km/h. This route has been optimized for speed, though it includes toll roads that require payment.

🗺️ Travel Planning Essentials

✓

Fuel Planning: Expect to use approximately 42 gallons (142 liters) of fuel for this 1057 mile journey. Plan fuel stops every 250-300 miles.

✓

Rest Stops: For safety, plan a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving. Total journey with breaks: 22.4 hours.

✓

Best Travel Times: Avoid peak traffic hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) in major cities along your route for optimal travel time.

✓

Weather Check: Monitor weather conditions along the entire route, especially during winter months or rainy seasons.

💰 Cost Estimation Guide

Fuel Cost (approximate)$148

Toll Costs$53

Vehicle Wear (per mile)$264

Total Trip Cost$465

* Costs are estimates based on average fuel prices and vehicle maintenance. Actual costs may vary.

Alternative Transportation Options

🚗

By Car

19.5 hours

1057 miles

✈️

By Plane

1.7 hours flight

1389 km direct

🚌

By Bus

25.4 hours

Multiple stops

🚂

By Train

Check availability

Scenic route