Car Hire in Cairns
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Car Hire in Cairns

Choose from our wide range of cars for rent in Cairns

4.6
Our customers love us
4.6 stars from 3,644 reviews in Cairns.
Easy pickup and returns
Our 3 locations in SIXT Cairns make renting a car hassle-free.
More flexibility
Change or cancel bookings at no extra cost at most of our locations worldwide.

Our top branches in Cairns

4.6
Cairns Airport
24h Return
Terminal building, Cairns
Cairns 4870
Australia
4.8
Cairns
24h Return
Cnr Sheridan and Aplin Streets
Cairns 4870
Australia
4.8
Port Douglas
24h Return
7 Warner St
Port Douglas 4877
Australia

Our services at Cairns

SIXT Car Hire Cairns

Need to hire a car in Cairns? SIXT will have you sorted in no time. Whether you’re off to explore the Daintree Rainforest or are taking the epic journey to Cape Tribulation, a Cairns car rental allows you to explore the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef with ease.

You’ll find SIXT Cairns car hire situated conveniently at Cairns Airport or in the city centre, just one street parallel to the major intersection of the Bruce and Captain Cook Highways. We’re only a five-minute trip from the airport, so you can get off the plane and on the road quick-smart!

From family holidays to business trips and romantic getaways, whatever the reason for your Cairns visit, SIXT has a wide range of vehicles to suit your driving needs. SIXT's Cairns car rentals also make arranging your insurance incredibly easy, so you can drive confidently.

Exclusive SIXT Rental Offers

SIXT is the exclusive car rental partner to all of Australia's leading Auto Clubs.

Auto Club members enjoy exclusive benefits every day, including a 15% member discount off SIXT's daily rate. When you arrange your Cairns car hire through us, we can also automatically help you manage your toll road use through our partner, Linkt!

Keep an eye on our magazine to take advantage of any other special offers, discounts and incredible partnerships!

Best Vehicles to Hire in Cairns

Select from our fleets of small cars, SUVs and 4WDs, or treat yourself with a luxury rental car – either way, you’ll be travelling in style. You can even leave the car seats and stroller at home thanks to our optional extras, which can be pre-arranged when you book.

Cairns town centre is very easy to navigate but for your trip, you are definitely going to want to explore further afield. It is not necessary to hire an SUV, 4WD or a ute, but many visitors do choose to. This is simply because you can enjoy a little extra space for the kids in the backseat, or any luggage and equipment you may need for your adventures.

If Cairns is the starting place for your epic adventure, you may also want to check out SIXT’s options for long-term car hire or even one-way car hire.

Why Hire a Car in Cairns with SIXT?

At SIXT Cairns, we focus on making every rental experience smooth, convenient, and reliable. Whether you’re visiting the region for the first time or are a frequent customer, our mission is to provide you with high-quality vehicles and outstanding service tailored to your needs.

We ensure your journey through Cairns is stress-free by offering well-maintained vehicles that undergo routine servicing. From the moment you book, you’ll have access to all the details you need—vehicle specifications, dimensions, and payload—so you know exactly what to expect when you pick up your car.

Choosing SIXT in Cairns means you’ll enjoy flexible booking options, dependable vehicles, and customer service that’s second to none. Whether you’re driving through the Daintree Rainforest, exploring coastal roads, or making your way to the Atherton Tablelands, SIXT makes it easy to hit the road with confidence.

SIXT Car Hire Locations Near Cairns

With 160 locations across Australia, SIXT is always located conveniently for all your car hire needs. If you’d like to pick up and drop off your hire car at different points, simply enter your chosen locations when you search your travel dates. If you’re looking for a hire car near Cairns, our other nearby branches include:

Cairns City

Cairns Airport

Port Douglas

Townsville

Townsville Airport

Mackay

Commercial Vehicle Hire Across Australia!

Sometimes, you need more than just a car. That’s where SIXT comes in—we’re ready to assist when you need a larger, more practical vehicle. With a nationwide fleet available right here in Cairns, you can choose from a range of vans, utes, buses, tippers, 4WDs or trucks in Cairns.

One of our most in-demand options is the moving truck for hire. Whether you're relocating across town or making a big move, SIXT has helped countless customers transport their furniture and personal items with ease. We even offer optional extras, such as packing boxes and tape, to simplify your moving day. Not sure which size vehicle will suit your needs? Check out our guide on which vehicle is your best hire option in Cairns for the big day.

The best part of renting with SIXT is the flexibility of our booking terms. Only need a bus for a short weekend trip? No problem. Facing unexpected downtime because your ute broke down? We’ve got you covered—book a replacement vehicle with us today, and get back on the road without the stress. With our adaptable rental options, you’ll always find a solution that works for you.

INSPIRATION: Things to Do in Cairns

From Fairy Falls hidden in the forest to beautiful mountain views and tastebud-tingling restaurants, you can reach all the top spots in Cairns thanks to the flexibility and freedom of a hire car.

Pack your swimmers and escape the North Queensland heat with a 20-minute drive to Cascade Falls – a secluded waterfall with plunge pools and rapids that are as breathtaking as they are refreshing.

Or take the scenic Great Tropical Drive into the heart of the Daintree Rainforest and marvel at Mossman Gorge. The drive is just as good as the final destination, and when you’re in a car, you can make all the fresh fruit road stops you want.

For those looking to go further, a Cairns car hire provides the perfect starting point for some epic road trips!

INSPIRATION: Day Trips Around Cairns

Don't have time for an epic adventure that keeps you on the road for weeks or more? Don’t worry. With SIXT’s incredibly flexible hire options, you can pick up some wheels for just the night. Then there are no excuses for not checking out these awesome day trips near Cairns.

INSPIRATION: The Far North Road Trip

It's only a 4-hour drive along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Townsville - but there's no rush with this road trip itinerary. Check out all the best places to stop along the way and make a trip out of it.

Customer reviews & feedback

4.6
4.6450067
Based on 3644 reviews
from our Customer Excitement Score survey*

Listen to what our customers say

4.8
Vehicle handover
4.7
Vehicle return
4.7
The vehicle
colin r.
5.0
Hello 6t rental is very efficient. The car was beautifully presented and clean. Everything went perfectly and when we handed it back and we were pleased with the service
Colin K.
5.0
Great customer service on pick up & drop off of car. Very friendly & courteous. Great vehicle, clean.
Emete I.
5.0
Friendly staff, quick and easy pick up - 10/10 recommend

*Our Customer Excitement Score is based on a survey sent to all customers who booked in Cairns. The score is an average of all customer responses.

Good to know when renting in Cairns

What cars can I hire from SIXT in Cairns?

In the picturesque paradise of Cairns, SIXT Car Rental is your ultimate destination for a wide variety of vehicles to enhance your exploration of the magnificent Great Barrier Reef or your journey to the awe-inspiring Kuranda Rainforest.

In sync with Cairns' vibrant and multifaceted atmosphere, our remarkable car collection offers an extensive selection tailored specifically to cater to your individual needs. Looking for a spacious SUV to effortlessly accommodate your snorkelling equipment, friends, or even your entire family? Explore our diverse range of capacious SUVs, such as the Toyota Prado, which provide the perfect solution. If you have a penchant for sustainable transportation while venturing through Cairns' streets, our green electric cars, like the BMW iX3, offer a fantastic alternative.

We acknowledge the significance of budget-friendly options without compromising on style. Have no worries, as we have got you covered! Make the most of our economical compact cars, including the Toyota Yaris, which seamlessly combine affordability and comfort. And if you crave elegance and an unparalleled driving experience, our sleek sedans, like the Kia Cerato, present an exceptional choice.

Indulge yourself with our deluxe luxury cars, including the Mercedes GLC, meticulously crafted to leave a lasting impression on Cairns' roads. Furthermore, we provide a selection of fuel-efficient hatchbacks and contemporary hybrid vehicles for drivers who prioritize efficiency and sustainability.

Please keep in mind that the availability of specific models can vary depending on when you book, your preferred branch, and what we currently have available. So, come on over and find the perfect ride for your Cairns adventure with SIXT Car Rental Cairns.

How do I hire a car in Cairns with SIXT?

Hey there! Need to rent a car in Cairns? No worries, we've got you covered at SIXT Car Hire Australia! Just follow these simple steps, and you'll be hitting the road in no time:

1. Check out our super user-friendly online booking portal. It's a piece of cake to navigate and will save you tons of time, so you can get on with enjoying your trip!

2. Simply select a pickup location in Cairns. And remember to let us know the date and time you'll be stopping by. We want to make sure everything is ready when you arrive!

3. Now, give us a heads up on when and where you plan on returning the car. We want to ensure a smooth process from start to finish.

4. Time to choose your dream car! We've got a fantastic selection, from sleek compact cars to premium sedans and SUVs. So take your time and picture yourself cruising through paradise in style!

5. You've made your choice, so let's lock it in! Just provide us with your personal information. Leave the rest to us, and we'll take care of everything. It's a piece of cake!

When you arrive at our branch in Cairns, our friendly team will be waiting at the SIXT Car Hire Australia desk. Just show them your booking confirmation, driver's license, and credit card, and they'll handle all the paperwork in a flash. We're all about getting you behind the wheel of your dream car as quickly as possible!

To ensure a hassle-free car rental experience, we highly recommend reserving your vehicle in advance. This way, not only will you get the car you want, but you'll also save time and money.

How do I get the best possible deal on car hire in Cairns?

If you're looking to score a top-notch deal on a car hire in Cairns with SIXT Car Hire Australia, you've come to the right place! We recommend booking as early as possible to capture the best rates and widest selection of cars - our fleet ranges from economical options to premium SUVs and sedans - something for every driver and pocket. Keep your eyes on our website for the latest promotions, discounts, and special offers to help squeeze a few extra dollars out of your rental. Don't forget to make your driving experience seamless by considering whether you need additional services like car insurance, child seats, or GPS. And for the cherry on top, join our SIXT Loyalty program - you'll accrue points, enjoy priority service and nab a discount on future rentals. Following these easy steps should put you in pole position for the best car hire deal in Cairns with SIXT.

So, you're jetting into Cairns and on the hunt for a reliable set of wheels for your escapade? No worries, mate! We've got a diverse selection of rental cars tailored to suit your individual tastes, travel needs, and to roll with the seasonal changes. Now, let's dive into the top picks on offer in Cairns. Welcome to our digital car depot, it's like a virtual showroom brimming with various car models. Are you an SUV kind of person? We've got spacious SUVs like the Mitsubishi Outlander, ideal for those jungle jaunts. Or perhaps you're all about the green travel? No problem, we've got you sorted with eco-conscious electric cars such as the Tesla Model Y, seamlessly aligning with Cairns' environmental ethos. But remember, at the end of the day, it's all about choosing the car that vibes with your style and travel plans. And hey, don't forget to grab your favourite for that sun-drenched, tropical cruise around the lively city of Cairns, known for its laid-back lifestyle and stunning natural beauty.