Jan
10
Cairns Holiday & Sightseeing Guide
Filed Under Australia
A trip to Cairns
The city of Cairns is the main town in Australia’s northern state of Queensland. The city itself is cosmopolitan and has plenty to offer in the way of arts. However, the real reason that most people make the trip here is for the plethora of diverse natural attractions from pristine beaches and colourful reefs including the Great Barrier Reef, to soaring mountains and wild jungles.
Flights to Cairns
Cairns International Airport is located only five miles from the city’s centre. The airport received traffic from mostly inside Australia with Qantas flights carrying passengers direct from Brisbane and Sydney on a number of services each day. If you are looking for a cheap flight to Cairns try lastminute.com.
Transportation around the city is plentiful with regular bus services running along a number of routes throughout the city. Taxis are also widely available, while car hire is an excellent option for those wishing to explore the textured countryside outside the city.
Cairns
Sightseeing in Cairns
To experience one of the northern coast’s most scenic drives, take a trip along the seafront on Captain Cook Highway. Near to Port Douglas, famous for its spectacular four-mile long beach, you will find Daintree National Forest, the perfect place to explore the flora and fauna of the region. Trips to see the Great Barrier Reef are popular from Cairns, where lively marine life and surreal diving await.
Fun by night – eating, drinking and partying
Cairns nightlife is busy with many options to choose from. Bars and pubs can be found across the city, offering the best in Aussie hospitality and free flowing beer. Bistro style shops provide a more sophisticated option, while clubs stay open into the early hours of the morning.
Some curious specialities are served at restaurants in Cairns. Here your will have the opportunity to sample local specialities such as emu, kangaroo and crocodile. Coral trout and red emperor are just two of many special types of fish which can be ordered, all of which are cooked to perfection and bursting with flavour.
Fun by day - activities and shopping
Flecker Botanic Gardens are well worth the visit for the spectacular orchid display and information on the use of plants by the Aborigines in the bush for food and medicinal purposes. Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Australia’s first inhabitants.
Shopping in the centre of town provides a wealth of opportunities from internationally recognised high street and designer stores, to quaint boutiques, second-hand clothes shops and antique stores.
Daytrips
Daytrips from Cairns are numerous and offer tourists exceptional activities and experiences. Close to major Australian spots, Cairns in an ideal launching point for the Great Barrier Reef. Here you can enjoy snorkelling or diving in splendid spots that rank among Australia’s best. Offshore, many splendid islands are to be explored and will ensure a delightful time basking in the sun.
From Cairns the Skyrail will lead you to Kuranda, a rainforest village. Enjoying the flora and fauna of this tropical area, you will be amazed by the variety of species to be seen. No wonder this trip to a world made of birds and butterflies will please nature lovers. The Daintree Rainforest provides many options for hiking and picnics, especially the beautiful Niau Falls.
The Atherton Tablelands is also an excellent daytrip choice to enjoy gorgeous waterfalls, splendid lakes and mountain landscapes.
Must-see attractions
Attractions in the city of Cairns include the Cominos House. Built in 1877, it is a typical house from Queensland territory and one of the oldest of the city, making it a nice place to visit while on Greenslopes Street.
The Esplanade is the centre of Cairns’ social life. Nestled between sea and shops, the Esplanade features an artificial lagoon for swimmers, restaurants and venues for backpackers. When the night arrives, the Esplanade is even more lively thanks to its night market showcasing local and indigenous artworks together with many dining options.
Sports fans will not want to miss a match of cricket at Cairns’ Cazaly’s Stadium, while basketball and rugby is also popular locally.
Best time to go
Located in the northeast part of Australia, Cairns has a tropical climate, with a wet season (November to March) and a dry season (April to November). The monsoon season is not a good time to go to Cairns. Instead it is better to head to this splendid area from April to October. You will also be able to fully enjoy the many activities offered by Cairns if you arrive at this time.
Rainy day suggestions
The Cairns Museum features exhibitions describing the development of Cairns and is a perfect rainy day attraction. It is located in the Old School of Arts building. Art lovers will be delighted to stroll around Cairns Regional Art Gallery, which houses a wide variety of artworks.
Gamblers will find an ideal venue at the Cairns Reef Casino. Endowed with enjoyable amenities, such as gambling tables and machines, the casino also provides guests with delicious dining options.
And why not make the best out of a rainy day by heading to a day spa? This is the right place to treat yourself and be pampered by expert hands. After a Cairns spa experience you will feel fit and relaxed, and ready to move on to other tourist attractions.
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