We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Cairns. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Hire in Cairns in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.

  • Customer benefits:
  • Quality & Expertise
  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

Flexible Booking Process

No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Cairns and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.

Free Extras & Cancellation

In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Cairns and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Cairns so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


location image

Why rent a car in Cairns?

Renting a car in Cairns offers unparalleled flexibility to explore the diverse attractions of Far North Queensland at your own pace. From the lush rainforests of Kuranda National Park to the serene beaches of Palm Cove, having your own vehicle allows you to venture beyond the city limits and discover hidden gems that are less accessible by public transport.

With a rental car, you can comfortably embark on day trips to iconic destinations like the Atherton Tablelands, known for its waterfalls and local produce, or take the scenic coastal drive to Port Douglas. This autonomy ensures you can tailor your itinerary to your interests, making the most of your time in this tropical paradise.

Car rental tips for Cairns

  • Cairns Airport hosts several car rental agencies conveniently located near the arrivals area, allowing for a seamless transition from your flight to the road. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and competitive rates.
  • Driving in Cairns is generally straightforward, but be prepared for tropical weather conditions, including sudden heavy rains that can affect road visibility and traction. Ensure your rental vehicle is equipped with good tyres and functioning wipers, and always check weather forecasts before embarking on longer trips.
  • If you plan to visit remote areas or national parks, verify that your rental agreement permits travel on unsealed roads, as some contracts may have restrictions. Additionally, ensure you have a reliable GPS or offline maps, as mobile reception can be limited in certain regions.
  • Fuel stations are readily available in Cairns and along major routes, but they become sparse in more remote areas. It's prudent to refuel before embarking on longer journeys to avoid running low on fuel in isolated locations.

FAQs about renting a car in Cairns

What is the recommended car type/category?

A mid-sized SUV is recommended for navigating both urban areas and the surrounding natural attractions comfortably. This vehicle type offers ample space for passengers and luggage, and its higher ground clearance is beneficial for accessing less-developed roads leading to national parks and beaches.

What are the parking options?

Cairns offers a mix of free and paid parking options. On-street parking is available but can be limited during peak times. Several paid parking facilities, such as the Cairns Central Shopping Centre car park, provide secure parking for longer durations. Always check signage for parking fees and time restrictions to avoid fines.

What's the speed limit?

In Queensland, the default speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas and 100 km/h (62 mph) on highways, unless otherwise posted. Always adhere to local signage, as speed limits can vary, especially in school zones and construction areas.

Popular attractions

  • Cairns Aquarium: Home to over 15,000 animals across 10 ecosystems, offering an immersive experience of the region's aquatic life.
  • Cairns Esplanade Lagoon: A large saltwater swimming facility surrounded by parklands, ideal for relaxation and family activities.
  • Kuranda Scenic Railway: A historic train journey through the rainforest, providing stunning views and access to the village of Kuranda.
  • Cairns Botanic Gardens: Features one of Australia's most diverse tropical plant collections, including the Aboriginal Plant Use Garden.
  • Crystal Cascades: A series of freshwater waterfalls and swimming holes nestled in the rainforest, perfect for a refreshing dip.

More places to visit

  • Green Island: A coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef, offering snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours.
  • Palm Cove: A tranquil beachside village known for its palm-lined beaches and upscale dining options.
  • Atherton Tablelands: A region of rolling hills, waterfalls, and local produce, ideal for scenic drives and food tours.
  • Port Douglas: A coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere, serving as a gateway to the Daintree Rainforest.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Hire Brands in Cairns

Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.

10 / 10

Simba Car Hire

View more
10 / 10

Right Price Car Hire

View more
10 / 10

AVIS Car Hire

View more
9.83 / 10

Budget Car Hire

View more
9.72 / 10

SIXT Car Hire

View more
9.68 / 10

Enterprise Car Hire

View more
9.52 / 10

Europcar Car Hire

View more
9.5 / 10

Alamo Car Hire

View more
9.5 / 10

Hertz Car Hire

View more
9.32 / 10

Bargain Car Hire

View more
9.32 / 10

Thrifty Car Hire

View more
8.86 / 10

East Coast Car Hire

View more
8.39 / 10

Ace Car Hire

View more
8.19 / 10

Dollar Car Hire

View more
6.72 / 10

Keddy Car Hire

View more

National Car Hire

View more

Firefly Car Hire

View more

: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.

Find a car according to your needs


Small / Economy

You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!

Car image for small and economy car category

Hybrid / Electric

A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.

Car image for hybrid and electric car category

Prestige Cars

Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.

Car image for prestige car category

Stationwagon / Minibus

You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.

Car image for stationwagon and minibus car category


Cairns: Most popular locations



The cheapest car rental deals


Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)

Website advantages

  • Destinations in almost every city in the world.
  • Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands
  • Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand
  • Multilingual website

Customer benefits

  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!

No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.

No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.