The city centre is fairly flat, so getting around is easy, even on foot. However, Cairns offers a wide range of transport options, including a network of buses and taxi services. Unless you are joining an organised tour, car hire is recommended for reaching nearby attractions such as the Daintree Rainforest.

Yes, getting around Cairns is quite easy, especially if you are staying in the city center. The downtown area is very walkable, and you can easily reach the Cairns Esplanade, the Lagoon, and the Reef Fleet Terminal (where most Great Barrier Reef tours depart) on foot. For destinations slightly further out, such as the northern beaches like Palm Cove or the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, the Kinetic (formerly Sunbus) public bus network provides reliable and affordable service; you can simply tap your credit card or buy a paper ticket on board. If you plan to explore the Atherton Tablelands, the Daintree Rainforest, or the many waterfalls south of the city, renting a car is highly recommended as public transit to these remote areas is limited. Alternatively, many travelers in 2026 opt for guided day tours which almost always include hotel pickup and drop-off, removing all the logistical stress of driving in a foreign country. Between the walkable CBD, the efficient bus system, and ubiquitous Uber/taxi services, you can easily experience the best of Cairns without ever needing to worry about a car.