Melbourne to Cairns Distance
Driving Distance
2,905 km (1,805 miles)
Drive time: ~38 hours 44 minutes
Straight Line
2,324 km (1,444 miles)
As the crow flies
Note: Distances are estimates. For exact routing, use Google Maps or your GPS.
Route Map
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Travel Comparison
| Method | Distance | Time | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | 2,905 km (1,805 miles) | 38 hours 44 minutes | $349 |
| Flying | 2,324 km (1,444 miles) | 3 hours 24 minutes | $399 |
| Train | 3,050 km (1,895 miles) | 20 hours 20 minutes | $386 |
Note: Times and costs are estimates and may vary based on specific routes, traffic, and service providers.
Calculate Another Route
As the crow flies
Did You Know?
No border crossings needed for this trip within Australia.
Route Overview
The drive from Melbourne to Cairns is a domestic route within Australia. This long-distance route traverses multiple regions and major highway systems. This journey typically requires 5 days of driving with overnight stops.
Frequently Asked Questions
The driving distance from Melbourne to Cairns is approximately 2,905 km (1,805 miles). The journey takes around 38 hours 44 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
Under normal traffic conditions, driving from Melbourne to Cairns takes approximately 38 hours 44 minutes. This estimate includes typical highway speeds and accounts for brief rest stops on longer journeys.
As the crow flies, the direct distance from Melbourne to Cairns is 2,324 km (1,444 miles). This represents the shortest possible distance between the two cities.
For this 2,905 km (1,805 miles) journey, flying is typically more practical due to the long driving time of 38 hours 44 minutes.
About Melbourne
Melbourne is a major city in Australia with a population of 5,350,705. Located at coordinates -37.81°N, 144.96°E, it serves as an important cultural and economic center in the region.
About Cairns
Cairns is a prominent city in Australia with a population of 153,075. Situated at coordinates -16.92°N, 145.77°E, it's known for its significant role in the country's economy and culture.
Disclaimer: Distances shown are estimates based on straight-line calculations and typical road routing patterns. Actual driving distances may vary depending on the specific route taken, road conditions, and local geography. For precise turn-by-turn navigation and real-time traffic updates, please use Google Maps or a GPS navigation system.