Cairns Airport car hire
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Cairns Airport car hire

Find the best car rental at Cairns Airport with SIXT. Choose from vans, trucks, utes and more

Sixt HQ

Additional Information

Your way to SIXT

SIXT offers two rental desks at Cairns Airport. There is one in the arrivals hall of T1 (the international terminal), and another in the arrivals hall of T2 (the domestic terminal).

By Car

If you're arriving by car, drive into Cairns Airport via Captain Cook Highway (National Highway 1) and look for the sign posts to the rental car park.

With public transportation

We recommend taxis or Excellence Coaches that offer a shuttle bus to/from Port Douglas, Cairns CBD and Northern Beaches.

SIXT Parking

You will find our SIXT parking in the car rental car park at T1 and T2.

Return information

Please park your vehicle in SIXT allocated parking in T1 or T2 car rental returns car park. After parking take your keys to the SIXT counter.

Directions

-16.87531852722168, 145.75265502929688

Cairns Airport

24h Return

Address

Terminal building, Cairns, Cairns 4870, Australia

Business hours

Mon - Fri
07:30 - 00:00
Sat - Sun
07:30 - 18:00
Public Holidays
07:30 - 00:00

Out of hours

Do you want to return your vehicle outside of opening hours?
4.6
Our customers love us
4.6 stars from 3,161 reviews at Cairns Airport.
Flexible returns
Don't worry when you bring your car back with 24hr returns.
More flexibility
Change or cancel bookings at no extra cost at most of our locations worldwide.

Our services at Cairns Airport

Cairns Airport Car Hire

If you’re in need of car hire in Cairns, SIXT offers convenient car rental at Cairns Airport with two desks: one in the arrivals hall of T1 (international terminal) and another in the arrivals hall of T2 (domestic terminal). Just look for the iconic SIXT orange signage, and our friendly team will get you on the road in no time.

Our in-terminal location ensures a seamless transition from flight to car, with exceptional customer service to support your journey. Whether you’re travelling for business, leisure, or moving cargo, our extensive fleet has something to suit every need.

SIXT Cairns Airport stocks one of Australia’s most diverse rental fleets, with a wide range of modern vehicles from top brands. If you need something small and efficient, our compact cars and sedans are perfect for navigating city streets. For families or adventure seekers, we offer SUVs, 4WDs, and wagons—ideal for road trips through the stunning landscapes of Far North Queensland.

If you prefer to travel in style, take one of our luxury cars for a spin. Whether it’s a BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or another premium model, you’ll enjoy the ultimate comfort and sophistication. For larger groups or business needs, our fleet also includes vans, buses, utes, and trucks —ready for anything from moving day to group outings.

Things to See and Do with a Car Rental in Cairns

Cairns offers a wealth of exciting activities and stunning scenery, making it the perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure. When you rent a car in Cairns, you can easily explore both the town and the wider northern Queensland region at your own pace.

In town, be sure to visit the popular Esplanade and Lagoon, ideal for a refreshing dip on a hot day. For a peaceful escape, the Cairns Botanic Gardens offer a lush retreat, while Muddy’s Playground is a must-visit if you’re travelling with kids. Looking for a scenic adventure? The Kuranda Scenic Railway is a breathtaking journey that winds past waterfalls and through the heart of the rainforest.

For those seeking unique and unexpected experiences, Cairns offers plenty of surprises. From indigenous cultural tours to skydiving over the reef, discover more about the hidden gems in the region by checking out our blog on unexpected experiences in and around Cairns. These activities are just a short drive away from our Cairns Airport and Cairns city rental locations, perfect for anyone with a rental car.

Commercial Vehicle Hire Across Australia

Sometimes, a car just isn’t going to cut it. SIXT is here for every customer, even when you need something a little bigger. Our commercial vehicles are available nationwide, which means you can hire a van, ute, bus, tipper, 4WD or truck in Cairns.

One of the most popular options from the fleet is the moving trucks for hire. SIXT helps so many people move their furniture and personal belongings every year, we even offer additional extras that include packing tape and boxes. Check out this article to find out which vehicle is your best hire option in Cairns for the big day.

The best thing about hiring a van or any vehicle with SIXT is that you will always enjoy our flexible hire terms. Just need a bus for a one-night trip? No problem. Has your work ute let you down last minute and you don’t know when it will be fixed? All good - just book with us today and we’ll find you a solution.

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!

Why Hire a Car at Cairns Airport with SIXT?

At SIXT Cairns Airport, we’re committed to providing top-tier service and dependable vehicles to make your rental experience seamless every time. Whether it’s your first rental or you’re a returning customer, we go the extra mile to offer you the best vehicles and services available.

Before hitting the road, we ensure you have everything needed for a smooth, stress-free journey. Our vehicles undergo regular maintenance and servicing, so you can feel confident in their reliability. Plus, you’ll get detailed information on the vehicle’s specifications, including dimensions and payload, before confirming your booking—giving you complete peace of mind.

Choosing SIXT at Cairns Airport means choosing quality, flexibility, and a rental partner that prioritises your satisfaction every step of the way.

Discover Flexible Vehicle Solutions at SIXT Cairns Airport

At SIXT Car Rental Cairns Airport, we pride ourselves on providing helpful and knowledgeable local staff who are ready to assist you with your car hire needs. Whether you’re flying in from the domestic or international terminals, our convenient airport location makes it easy to get on the road quickly and efficiently.

We offer competitive deals on a wide range of vehicles, from small cars for city driving to SUVs for more rugged adventures. For those needing something larger, our extensive fleet of commercial vehicles is perfect for moving, business trips, or family outings. We even have a range of eco-friendly electric vehicles alongside our traditional fleet from popular models like Tesla, BMW and BYD. If you’re thinking of hiring an electric vehicle for the first time, check out our guide.

To enhance your rental experience, we provide optional extras that can be added to your booking, such as child and baby seats, strollers, and GPS units, ensuring your trip around Cairns is as smooth as possible.

The flexibility of our hire terms means you can book a vehicle for as long or short a period as you need. Whether you’re heading on a day trip or need a vehicle for a couple of weeks on the job, SIXT is ready to assist with easy, flexible booking options. See our long-term vehicle leasing options.

Day Trip Ideas from Cairns

Cairns is an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of Far North Queensland, with incredible day trip locations just 30 to 90 minutes away. For a taste of the rainforest, head to Mossman Gorge, where you can take a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy scenic walks through lush greenery.

For those who love the outdoors, Mareeba is perfect for exploring the Tablelands’ rich farmland, coffee plantations, and hot air ballooning. Closer to Cairns, the Crystal Cascades are a hidden gem, offering a series of waterfalls and natural swimming pools in a tranquil setting.

With SIXT Car Hire Cairns Airport, you can easily explore these amazing spots. Check out our guide to awesome day trips around Cairns to start planning your next adventure!

Great Road Trips from Cairns

Cairns is not only a gateway to tropical adventures but also the perfect starting point for some of Queensland’s most scenic road trips. Whether you’re driving through coastal landscapes, exploring rainforests, or venturing to outback destinations, there’s a road trip for everyone.

One must-see journey is the drive to Port Douglas, which takes you along the Captain Cook Highway, offering breathtaking ocean views the entire way. Another popular route is heading north to the Daintree Rainforest, where you can immerse yourself in one of the world’s oldest ecosystems.

For more inspiration, check out our guide to great road trips from Cairns. With SIXT Car Hire Cairns Airport, you’ll have the perfect vehicle to set off on your next adventure.

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef

Of course, the coastline offers its own collection of attractions. The Great Barrier Reef is always worth a visit, whether you fly over it on a scenic flight, travel across the waves by boat, or dip beneath the water with a snorkel and flippers. Or, make your way along the coast to enjoy beaches, small towns like Palm Cove, and incredible scenery at every turn.

Note that you are not permitted to drive your SIXT rental to Cooktown via the coast road, although you can take the inland route. Check out the rental conditions if you’re ever unsure.

Customer reviews & feedback

4.6
4.622569
Based on 3161 reviews
from our Customer Excitement Score survey*

Listen to what our customers say

4.8
Vehicle handover
4.8
Vehicle return
4.7
After the return
T.
5.0
The staff were all very accommodating and helpful. The car was new and clean, and the drop off and pick up process was very simple.
Chris C.
5.0
Good job, great value.
Russ C.
5.0
Ideal vehicle, good pricing and helpful staff

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

Good to know when renting at Cairns Airport

How do I hire a car at Cairns Airport?

Ready to explore the local area of Cairns in your cool set of wheels from SIXT Car Hire Cairns Airport? Here's your no-fuss, straightforward guide to making that happen:

1. Jump onto our website and navigate your way to the booking section.

2. Identify 'Cairns Airport' as your desired pick-up location and enter your preferred pick-up date and time.

3. Share your intended drop-off location and time for your gleaming rental.

4. Choose from our wide array of vehicles, be it a budget-friendly car, a luxurious sedan, or a spacious SUV.

5. Provide us with your personal contact details to complete the booking process.

As soon as you touch down at Cairns Airport, look out for signs directing you to the car hire area. This is where you'll meet the welcoming team at the SIXT Car Hire Cairns Airport counter. Simply present your booking confirmation, driver's license, and credit card to our staff, and they'll assist you in finalizing the rental process and guide you to your vehicle.

We're committed to ensuring your car hire experience is as seamless as a finely tuned engine, so we recommend booking your vehicle in advance with SIXT Car Hire Cairns Airport. This not only ensures you'll secure the car you desire, but also allows you to take advantage of the best rates. So, what are you waiting for? Let's get you on the road!

What cars can I rent from SIXT Cairns Airport?

Welcome to SIXT Car Rental Cairns Airport, your go-to car rental service in Cairns. Our wide range of rental cars tailored to suit all kinds of needs, whether you're planning to cruise along the coast or explore the lush Daintree Rainforest, we've got you covered.

Our fleet is as diverse as Cairns itself, boasting everything from roomy SUVs like the Mitsubishi Outlander, perfect for those family adventures, to Tesla's green electric cars like the Model Y, ideal for the eco-conscious traveler. If you're on a budget but still want a comfortable ride, we've got economical compact cars such as the Toyota Corolla that won't break the bank.

For those who prefer a touch of elegance, our stylish Kia Cerato sedans are a great choice, offering a sleek and comfortable ride. And if you're looking to splurge a bit, we've got high-end luxury cars like the Mercedes CLA200 Coupe that are sure to turn heads as you drive through the city.

We also offer fuel-efficient hatchbacks for the budget-conscious traveler and contemporary hybrid vehicles for those who want the best of both worlds. And remember, while we strive to provide the model you prefer, the availability of specific models may vary depending on the booking period and current stock.

So, whether you're in Cairns for business or pleasure, SIXT Car Rental Cairns Airport has the perfect vehicle to make your trip memorable.

What is the most popular car hire at Cairns Airport?

At Cairns Airport, we've got a large range of car rental options that are as diverse as your travel needs and preferences. Depending on the time of year and your specific requirements, you might find that certain types of cars are more popular than others. To get a feel for the most in-demand car rentals at Cairns Airport, we suggest taking a virtual tour of the SIXT website. Here, you'll find a wide array of car types to choose from.

Maybe you're after a roomy SUV like the Nissan Juke or Mitsubishi ASX for a family adventure, or perhaps an eco-conscious electric car like the BYD ATTO 3 or Tesla Model Y is more your speed. Whatever your travel needs, we've got you covered. And remember, you're in Cairns, a city known for its tropical climate and stunning natural beauty, close to a World Heritage reef and rainforest, so why not pick a car that lets you explore all its unique features?

The cost of your next Cairns Airport car rental will depend on the type of vehicle you hire, how long you hire it for, and or not you want to add additional extras like seats for the kids, a GPS or coverage options. The SIXT Cairns Airport Car Hire fleet is one of the largest and most diverse car rental fleets on offer, with pickup right at Cairns Airport. Hire an eco-friendly electric car like the BYD Atto 3 or Tesla Model Y, save some cash with a budget-friendly compact car. or take a drive on the high side of life with a luxury ride, like one of our Mercedes. Want to know more? Use our online search tool and enter in your preferred pick-up and drop-off dates to stroll through our virtual showroom. This will give you the latest prices and availabilities at SIXT Car Hire Cairns Airport. Thanks to SIXT, you can level up your next Cairns adventure with a smooth and affordable car hire experience that allows you to hit the open roads with ease.