By rail · STEAM TRAIN RIDES IN AUSTRALIA
Good steam train rides in Australia sell the seats before the fares, and the best ones go first. Below: the 8 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Ride Puffing Billy, a preserved steam railway built in 1900, through the Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne. Choose a journey from Belgrave or Lakeside, meet the volunteer crew, enjoy Emerald Lake Park, and sit on the carriage sill between Belgrave and Lakeside when permitted.
“I loved the views and the whole trip! I really recommend this journey, I'd do that again”
Spend eight hours beyond Melbourne on a guided trip to Puffing Billy and Healesville Sanctuary. Ride the steam train from Belgrave to Lakeside, walk through rainforest, and see koalas, kangaroos, and birds of prey. Guides such as Gary, Stuart, Anthony, and Jerry are known for keeping the day friendly and well organized.
“I absolutely love it. It’s something you need to do while you’re here.”
Combine two of Victoria’s best-known outings in one 12-hour trip. Ride Puffing Billy from Belgrave to Lakeside, visit The Nobbies, then watch little penguins come ashore at Phillip Island. English-speaking guides such as Alan, Gina, Jose, and Stuart are praised for useful wildlife tips and smooth timing.
“Excellent experience and thx for our tour guides … LeLe and Gina both of them very professional and fun”
Ride Puffing Billy from Belgrave to Lakeside through fern-filled forests, cross the Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge, and relax at Emerald Lake Park. An English-speaking guide leads the day, with audio commentary in 16 languages and central Melbourne pickup.
“Magical fun experience. Nothing like ridding a steam train while your legs dangle off the side. The lush views are amazing.”
Ride the historic Puffing Billy steam train for one hour through the Dandenong Ranges, with open carriages, rainforest views, and dangling-leg fun. Your English-speaking guide, such as Gina, Mark, or Michael, handles the day from Melbourne pickup to Lakeside. Bring warm clothes, walking shoes, and a snack.
“Amazing tour guide. Gina is incredible, informative and very friendly. We love our experience here. I traveled with my 80 year old mother and she had such an amazing time. Highly recommended!”
Ride the historic Puffing Billy steam train with your legs hanging from the carriage, pause in Sherbrooke Forest, then visit Healesville Sanctuary. Your guide handles the long drives from Melbourne, with names such as Gerry, Andy, Stewart, and Margaret praised for friendly commentary. Lunch is extra.
“Andy was excellent. This was a relaxing and interesting trip. We have been go go going for 1.5 weeks and needed something a bit more relaxed. The sanctuary was really great. Very interesting talks every 15 minutes and don't miss the flight show. Very interesting.”
Travel from Melbourne by air-conditioned coach to ride Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, visit The Nobbies, and watch little penguins come ashore at sunset. Guides such as Daniel and William are praised for clear timing and useful tips. Maru Koala and Animal Park is optional and costs AUD $33 extra.
“Clear instructions and gave us useful suggestions, especially the penguin activity, let us know where was the best location to see it”
Ride the historic Puffing Billy steam train from Belgrave through the Dandenong Ranges in open-sided carriages, then visit the Lakeside Visitor Centre and Emerald Lake Park. A guide such as Robbie, Sherif, Bluey, or Mel may lead the day. Hotel pickup and Wi-Fi are included.
“Very clear instructions for pick up , and friendly guide ! Very nice experience! Nice length of time spend there”
Pick a gauge, a class or a country.
