Category Train Experiences

Melbourne · TRAIN EXPERIENCES

8 Train Experiences in Melbourne That Earn the Day

8 reviewed

Puffing Billy Railway: Heritage Steam Train Journey

Puffing Billy Railway: Heritage Steam Train Journey - Belgrave versus Lakeside: choosing your direction (and your viewing perks)

1.Puffing Billy Railway: Heritage Steam Train Journey

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,195 reviews · 2 - 4 hours · from $29Our pick

Ride Puffing Billy in the Dandenong Ranges on a 1900-built steam train, with volunteer-led service, scenic stops, and a great Lakeside visit.

“We had a wonderful time riding on Puffing Billy. The scenery in the Dandenong region is stunning. The volunteer staff were very efficient and great fun. I travelled with my adult granddaughters and we all had an amazing time. At the age of 74 it’s the first time I have travelled on a train, sitting with my legs dangling over the side!”

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From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Steam Train & Wildlife Tour

From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Steam Train & Wildlife Tour - Puffing Billy from Belgrave to Lakeside: what the steam train experience actually feels like

From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train & Penguin Wildlife Tour

From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train & Penguin Wildlife Tour - Pickup points in Melbourne, and why the start time matters

3.From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train & Penguin Wildlife Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 605 reviews · 12 hours · from $145

Melbourne day trip combining Puffing Billy steam train, Dandenong Ranges stops, The Nobbies viewpoints, and Phillip Island Penguin Parade.

“Great excursion! The puffy Billy train is nice, sitting on the windows is funny and part of the excursion to enjoy the view but it’s not comfortable. We went to different beaches and view points in Phillip island. But the highlight was definitely the penguin parade, it was really amazing 🤩. The upgrade to the penguin plus is great, all the penguins will arrive just in front of you, so paying a small extra definitely worth it if you want to really enjoy the experience. The guide was nice and friendly.”

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Melbourne: Half-Day Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience

Melbourne: Half-Day Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience - Entering Puffing Billy at Belgrave Station

4.Half-Day Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 263 reviews · 6 hours - 1 day · from $126

Ride the iconic Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, cross Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge, then unwind at Emerald Lake Park.

“The Puffing Billy tour was a wonderful way to experience Victoria’s history and natural beauty. The train ride was comfortable, the commentary informative, and the staff very enthusiastic. I especially appreciated how well the experience was organized.”

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Melbourne: Puffing Billy Railway & Rainforest Tour

Melbourne: Puffing Billy Railway & Rainforest Tour - Pickup in Melbourne, and why the exact meeting points matter

5.Puffing Billy Railway & Rainforest Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 239 reviews · 6 hours · from $107

Ride Puffing Billy in open carriages, stroll Grants Picnic Ground, and explore Lakeside history on a guided half-day escape from Melbourne.

“We thoroughly enjoyed the day trip. Gina was a brilliant tour guide, very friendly and accommodating. An efficient half day tour, you're back in the CBD by 1pm-2pm to enjoy the rest of the afternoon. Our only, slight, comment would be that there is in inequality of views depending which side of the carriage you sit on. Whilst both have nice views, one is significantly better. This is no fault of Gina's, of course, however perhaps she could suggest to all of those in the carriage that it would be polite to switch sides half way around so everyone can enjoy the view over the valleys.”

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1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne

1 day Puffing Billy Steam Train and Wildlife Tour from Melbourne - Puffing Billy steam train: where to sit for better views

Melbourne: Puffing Billy Railway & Penguin Parade Day Tour

Melbourne: Puffing Billy Railway & Penguin Parade Day Tour - Morning pickups and the coach routine (plan your energy)

7.Puffing Billy Railway & Penguin Parade Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 195 reviews · 12 hours · from $145

Ride Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, then watch Little Penguins return at sunset on Phillip Island, with optional koalas.

“We had an amazing experience on our tour, despite some unexpected challenges due to extreme weather that led to part of the tour being canceled. Our guide was incredibly accommodating, quickly arranging a great replacement activity that still made our day memorable. The driver was exceptional—kind, professional, and really went the extra mile to make us feel welcome. He offered us candy on the bus, made sure we had all the tickets we needed, and even gave us some fantastic tips on the best places to eat and catch the best view of the penguin parade. Everything ran smoothly, and we felt well taken care of the entire time. Highly…”

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Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience

Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience - Boarding Puffing Billy in Belgrave: What the Ride Feels Like

8.Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 169 reviews · from $128Top rated

Ride the heritage Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, then explore Lakeside and Emerald Lake Park with pickup and Wi-Fi.

“Was a great experience, Robbie was great tour guide! So glad to found this website on social media. Don’t hesitate to get it.”

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