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Check availability on Cairns Cheap Hotels

Tonight
21 Feb - 22 Feb
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22 Feb - 23 Feb
Next weekend
27 Feb - 1 Mar
In two weeks
6 Mar - 8 Mar

Our top choices for Cairns cheap hotels

Land view from property

Cairns Harbourside Hotel

Cairns Harbourside Hotel
4.0 star property
Cairns North
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Great staff great location "
Canada
Wayne
The price is £83
includes taxes & fees
13 Mar - 14 Mar
Cairns Harbourside Hotel
View from room

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns

Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,011 reviews)
"Loved every minute of our stay."
Australia
Nathan
The price is £118
includes taxes & fees
4 Mar - 5 Mar
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Exterior

Crystalbrook Flynn

Crystalbrook Flynn
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,008 reviews)
"Helpful service, clean room and facilities.It was a lovely stay."
Australia
Costa
The price is £99
includes taxes & fees
4 Mar - 5 Mar
Crystalbrook Flynn
BBQ/picnic Area

Bohemia Resort Cairns

Bohemia Resort Cairns
3.0 star property
Cairns North
6.4 out of 10, (1,000 reviews)
"very good and the pool was nice. "
Australia
Nancy
The price is £35
includes taxes & fees
4 Mar - 5 Mar
Bohemia Resort Cairns
Executive Luxury Suite | In-room safe, blackout curtains, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Pacific Hotel Cairns

Pacific Hotel Cairns
4.5 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,003 reviews)
"Great location in a quite area, but still very close to the lagoon and various dining areas."
Australia
Dean
The price is £92
includes taxes & fees
3 Mar - 4 Mar
Pacific Hotel Cairns
Exterior

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
4.5 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,005 reviews)
"Great location. Great rooms and pool. "
United States
Emily
The price is £89
includes taxes & fees
18 Mar - 19 Mar
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cairns
Hilton Premier Suite | Balcony

Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Courteous staff and excellent amenities"
Australia
Mohamed
The price is £94
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Hilton Cairns
Outdoor pool, pool loungers

Pullman Cairns International

Pullman Cairns International
5.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,004 reviews)
"Was good facility to stay at"
Australia
Ross
The price is £90
includes taxes & fees
6 Mar - 7 Mar
Pullman Cairns International
Deluxe Studio Suite, Multiple Beds | Premium bedding, down duvets, desk, blackout curtains

The Abbott Boutique Hotel

The Abbott Boutique Hotel
4.0 star property
Cairns Central Business District
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Very clean room and great amenities. Especially the free coffee machine!"
United Kingdom
Tom
The price is £85
includes taxes & fees
23 Feb - 24 Feb
The Abbott Boutique Hotel
Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, pool loungers

Cairns Sheridan Hotel

Cairns Sheridan Hotel
4.0 star property
Cairns North
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Very clean Staff was very kind"
Australia
Suk
The price is £87
includes taxes & fees
16 Mar - 17 Mar
Cairns Sheridan Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Find out more about Cairns

Discover cheap things to do in Cairns

Cairns is a paradise of affordable adventures for the budget-conscious traveller. Start your day at the Cairns Esplanade, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a swim in the lagoon, all for free. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for families, with playgrounds and picnic areas available for a delightful afternoon. For a taste of local culture, don’t miss the bustling Cairns Night Markets, where you can savour delicious street food without breaking the bank, alongside unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Adventurous spirits can explore the lush greenery of the Cairns Botanic Gardens, featuring a range of walking trails and stunning tropical flora, all at no cost. And if you’re up for a short trip, consider a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef; affordable tours can be found which cater to families, offering snorkelling experiences that won’t empty your wallet. For accommodation, the area around the Esplanade is perfect for families seeking good value; here, you’ll find a variety of budget-friendly hotels that offer convenient access to all these attractions, along with attentive guest service to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Find the best cheap hotels in Cairns

Cairns offers a range of budget-friendly hotels that combine affordability with comfort. Here are some top choices that ensure a pleasant stay without breaking the bank.

Cairns City Apartments

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Cairns City Apartments stands out as a top budget choice with an impressive review rating of 9.0. This hotel offers guests free WiFi and self-parking, making it easy for travelers on a budget to stay connected and mobile. The apartments are well-equipped for an extended stay, providing the perfect balance of comfort and affordability.
  • Other amenities: Each apartment includes a kitchenette, allowing for self-catering options, and features an outdoor pool for relaxation. Guests can enjoy a furnished balcony with mountain views, air conditioning for comfort, and daily housekeeping. Additionally, the hotel’s garden area offers a peaceful retreat, making it a delightful choice for those seeking an affordable yet enjoyable stay in Cairns.
  • Neighborhood: Cairns Central Business District
  • Nearby attractions: Cairns Esplanade - 0.7 km, Cairns Central Shopping Centre - 0.3 km, The Cairns Museum - 0.7 km

Aspect Central

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Aspect Central caters to budget travellers with a solid review rating of 7.8, providing a comfortable stay without compromising on quality. Guests will appreciate the free WiFi and toiletries, alongside self-parking options for added convenience. The inviting poolside bar is a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring Cairns.
  • Other amenities: The hotel includes an outdoor pool, a kitchenette in rooms for self-catering, and a restaurant by the pool. Guests can also enjoy air conditioning, a garden space, and daily housekeeping services. Nearby fitness facilities offer options for those looking to maintain their workout routine while travelling.
  • Neighborhood: Cairns North
  • Nearby attractions: Cairns Esplanade - 0.8 km, Cairns Esplanade Charles Street Parkland - 0.3 km

Cairns Sunland Leisure Park

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Cairns Sunland Leisure Park is a fantastic budget option for travellers, a review rating of 7.6. With complimentary WiFi and self-parking, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay without any extra costs. The outdoor pool is perfect for cooling off, making it an ideal spot for families and relaxation alike.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features a playground for children, a patio for outdoor enjoyment, and kitchen facilities in rooms for convenient meal preparation. Guests will also find air conditioning, shared kitchen access, and various nearby attractions for hiking and biking, ensuring there's always something to do during their stay.
  • Neighborhood: Manoora
  • Nearby attractions: Centenary Lakes Botanic Gardens - 2.3 km, Mount Whitfield Conservation Park - 2.7 km, Tanks Arts Centre - 2.9 km

How to get cheap hotels in Cairns?

 

✅ The length of stay in Cairns often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in Cairns's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in Cairns in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in Cairns, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in Cairns on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in Cairns.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in Cairns, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Cairns. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £35*.

✅  Cairns offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring Cairns on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Cairns is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Cairns Hotel Reviews

Hilton Cairns

Hilton Cairns

10/10 Excellent
"Room was spotless and the staff extremely friendly and helpful. Great location and we will definitely stay here again. "
Kenneth Gosta 6-night trip
Posted 20 hours ago
Hilton Cairns

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Cairns as a budget traveler?
The best hotels for budget travellers in Cairns include Heritage Cairns, Cairns City Apartments, and Travellers Oasis - Hostel.

The 3-star Heritage Cairns, with an 8.8 rating, offers excellent value with free parking and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests frequently praise its excellent and helpful staff, as well as the comfortable and clean rooms. Many rooms also feature a balcony or patio, superb for enjoying the pleasant Cairns weather.

For those who appreciate self-catering options, the 3-star Cairns City Apartments, rated 9.0, provides great amenities like free Wi-Fi, free parking, and a full kitchen in each apartment. Reviewers often highlight the nice, quiet pool as a relaxing feature.

If you are looking for a more social and community-oriented stay, Travellers Oasis - Hostel, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers free Wi-Fi and complimentary parking.
How much does a budget hotel in Cairns cost?
Budget hotel prices in Cairns vary, but you can find a great deal from £35 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Cairns is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Cairns, areas slightly outside the immediate city centre, such as those around the Cairns North and Parramatta Park suburbs, often provide the best value. These locations offer more affordable accommodation options while still being conveniently accessible to the city's main attractions.

Cairns North, situated just a short walk or quick public bus ride north of the CBD, is home to a good number of hostels and motels that cater to travellers on a shoestring budget. It's a quieter residential area, but still close enough to the Esplanade and its free public lagoon for swimming. Solo travellers will find it easy to connect with others in the backpacker hostels here, many of which offer organised tours and social events.

Alternatively, Parramatta Park, located to the west of the city centre, also features various budget hotels and guesthouses. While a bit further from the waterfront, it provides excellent access to public transport routes that can whisk you into the heart of Cairns quickly.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Cairns?
For families seeking top-rated, affordable accommodation in Cairns, excellent options include Elysium Triton by the Sea, Cairns City Sheridan, Bohemia Resort Cairns, Heritage Cairns, and Cairns City Apartments.

Elysium Triton by the Sea is a 3-star property with an impressive 9.6 rating. Families will appreciate the outdoor swimming pool with free sun loungers and poolside cabanas, superb for relaxing. They also offer a 24-hour airport shuttle service, making arrivals and departures straightforward.

Cairns City Sheridan, also a 3-star hotel, provides great value with free self-parking and free WiFi. Many rooms include a kitchen, which is ideal for families wanting to prepare their own meals. Customers frequently praise the clean, great pool, spacious rooms, and great service from the staff.

Bohemia Resort Cairns, a 3-star hotel, offers free WiFi and free self-parking. Guests often highlight the nice, great rooms, comfy beds, and friendly staff. The pool is also frequently described as nice and great, providing a lovely spot for families to unwind.

Heritage Cairns is a 3-star hotel with an 8.8 rating. It offers free self-parking, free WiFi, and free toiletries. Rooms often feature a deck, patio, or balcony, providing extra space for families. Reviewers consistently mention the excellent, helpful staff, comfortable, clean rooms, and excellent location.

Cairns City Apartments, with a 9.0 rating, is a 3-star option that includes free WiFi, free wired internet in public areas, and free self-parking. The presence of a kitchen in the apartments is a significant benefit for families.
What cheap hotels in Cairns offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly accommodation in Cairns that includes a complimentary breakfast, The Balinese is a great option.

The Balinese boasts an 8.2 review rating and offers a free continental breakfast, ensuring a good start to your day without additional cost. Guests also benefit from complimentary toiletries and free self-parking, adding to the overall value.
What are the best cheap hotels in Cairns with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in Cairns with a pool, excellent options include Heritage Cairns, Cairns City Apartments, and Travellers Oasis - Hostel.

The 3-star Heritage Cairns, with an 8.8 rating, offers a refreshing outdoor pool and complimentary self-parking. Guests consistently praise the excellent and helpful staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and a great location.

Another great choice is the 3-star Cairns City Apartments, rated 9.0. This property provides free WiFi and self-parking, along with a kitchen in each apartment, making it ideal for self-catering. Reviewers particularly note the nice and quiet pool area.

For those who enjoy a more social atmosphere, Travellers Oasis - Hostel, boasting a 9.4 rating, features an inviting outdoor pool, free WiFi, and complimentary self-parking.
Are there any cheap Cairns hotels near Esplanade Lagoon?
Yes, for budget-friendly hotels in Cairns located conveniently near Esplanade Lagoon, Heritage Cairns and Cairns City Apartments are excellent choices.

The 3-star Heritage Cairns, with an 8.8 rating, offers great value with free self-parking and complimentary WiFi. Guests frequently praise the excellent and helpful staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and its superb location. Many rooms also feature a balcony or patio, adding to the comfort.

Another solid option is the 3-star Cairns City Apartments, boasting a 9.0 rating. This property provides free WiFi, free wired internet in public areas, and free self-parking.
Is Cairns a budget-friendly destination?
While Cairns, Queensland, Australia, is generally considered more expensive than some other international destinations, travellers can absolutely experience its magic on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider staying in areas slightly outside the immediate city centre, such as the northern beaches like Yorkeys Knob or Holloways Beach, which often have more affordable holiday rentals or caravan parks. These are well-connected to the city via local bus services, providing a cost-effective way to get around. Solo travellers might also find budget-friendly hostels right in the city centre, offering a social atmosphere and good value.

Couples can save on food by preparing some of their own meals. Cairns has excellent local markets, like Rusty's Markets, where you can buy fresh produce and local delicacies at reasonable prices. Picnics along the Esplanade or at the Cairns Botanic Gardens are a lovely and free way to dine. Many of Cairns' most captivating attractions are also free or low-cost, such as swimming at the Esplanade Lagoon, exploring the Botanic Gardens, or simply enjoying the tropical ambience.
What cheap hotels in Cairns offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Cairns with cooking facilities or kitchenettes, Cairns City Apartments, Aspect Central, Elysium Triton by the Sea, A1 Inn the City, and Lake Central are all excellent choices.

Cairns City Apartments, a 3-star property with a 9.0 rating, offers full kitchens, making it ideal for self-catering. Guests often comment on the nice and quiet pool area. Free WiFi and free self-parking are also provided, adding to the value.

Aspect Central, another 3-star hotel with a 7.8 rating, provides kitchenettes in its comfortable and clean rooms. Reviewers frequently mention the central location, friendly staff, and great towels. This hotel also offers free WiFi, free self-parking, and an outdoor pool with a poolside bar.

Elysium Triton by the Sea, a highly-rated 3-star hotel with a 9.6 review score, features kitchenettes. It also provides free toiletries, a 24-hour airport shuttle, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool with sun loungers and free cabanas.

A1 Inn the City, with a 7.4 rating, includes kitchenettes in its clean rooms. Guests can also enjoy a balcony or patio and an outdoor pool. Free parking is available at a nearby location.

Lake Central, a 3-star hotel rated 7.0, offers kitchenettes. Reviewers frequently praise the spacious and clean rooms, super comfortable beds, and superb location.
Which cheap hotels in Cairns have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Cairns with great customer service, travellers often praise Heritage Cairns, YHA Cairns Central, and Bohemia Resort Cairns.

The 3-star Heritage Cairns, with an 8.8 rating, is known for its excellent and helpful staff. Guests appreciate the complimentary WiFi and free self-parking, along with the option of a balcony or patio in their rooms.

YHA Cairns Central, rated 8.4, frequently receives excellent feedback for its friendly staff. This hotel offers free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a communal kitchen, which are practical amenities for budget travellers.

Bohemia Resort Cairns, a 3-star property, is also much-loved for its friendly staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in Cairns that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
For travellers seeking budget-friendly accommodation in Cairns that accommodates early check-in, Bohemia Resort Cairns is a great option.

The 3-star Bohemia Resort Cairns offers a clear early check-in policy, making it convenient for guests arriving before the standard check-in time. Guests frequently praise the nice rooms and great pool, as well as the comfy beds and pillows, ensuring a pleasant stay. The friendly staff also receive positive mentions in reviews.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Cairns with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Cairns. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Cairns?
Cairns offers a fantastic array of free activities, allowing solo travellers to experience the best of the region without spending a fortune.

Begin by exploring the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, a magnificent saltwater swimming facility that's superb for a refreshing dip or simply relaxing by the water. There are also free fitness classes offered here, like Zumba or aqua aerobics, for those looking to stay active. Strolling along the entire Esplanade boardwalk is a delightful experience, offering scenic views of the Coral Sea and plenty of green spaces for picnicking or simply unwinding. You might even spot some local wildlife.

For a taste of nature, head to the Cairns Botanic Gardens, a lush tropical oasis showcasing an impressive collection of native and exotic plants. It's a wonderful place for a leisurely walk, and there are often free guided tours available. Another excellent option is a hike up Mount Whitfield Conservation Park; it boasts several walking tracks, including the popular Red Arrow and Blue Arrow trails, which offer spectacular panoramic views of Cairns and the surrounding coastline from various lookouts.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Cairns as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Cairns for you.

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