Traveling Across Australia by Train

Forget flying or driving—one of the best ways to discover the wonders of Down Under is by taking train journeys across Australia. Whether you aim to traverse the entire country or enjoy a scenic coastal ride, there's a train adventure for everyone.

The Indian Pacific: Sydney to Perth

Begin your adventure with one of Australia’s longest train journeys. The Indian Pacific runs from Sydney in the east to Perth in the west, or the other way around, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking landscapes of this vast country.

Spanning over 2,700 miles and lasting about 70 hours in total, this journey showcases iconic sights along the way, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains and Broken Hill, Australia’s oldest mining town. The Indian Pacific also makes a stop in Adelaide, giving you a chance to explore the city for a few hours before continuing across the Nullarbor Plain to Perth.

You’ll need to secure your tickets through the official website. The ticket price covers nine meals, wine, en-suite showers, and private cabins, ensuring a luxurious travel experience. This train route is enjoyable year-round, making it easy to incorporate into your travel plans.

The Great Southern: Adelaide to Brisbane

Another notable route is The Great Southern, which spans three days from start to finish. Beginning in the southern capital of Adelaide, you’ll enjoy stunning views on your way to Brisbane.

Your journey will kick off with the breathtaking Grampians Range, famous for its hiking trails, and Victoria Valley. Afterward, you’ll arrive in Melbourne, where you can explore the city before continuing along the coast. A stop at Coffs Harbour allows you to unwind on the beach or take a swim before concluding your trip in Brisbane.

You can buy tickets for The Great Southern online. The fare includes private sleeping accommodations, meals, beverages, and off-train excursions. However, unlike its counterpart, this train operates only in December and January, so make sure to book your tickets well in advance.

The Spirit of the Outback: Brisbane to Longreach

Another great multi-day journey is the Spirit of the Outback, which transports you from Brisbane to Longreach. Covering over 820 miles of rugged Outback, this sleeper train completes its journey in just over 24 hours.

Along the way, you’ll encounter historic mining towns like Blackwater and Emerald, which have significant importance in Australia’s history. Once you arrive in Longreach, be sure to visit one of the top attractions: the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame.

Operating year-round, this train route is an excellent option for anyone traveling to Brisbane. Tickets can be booked in advance through the official website. There are various accommodation choices available, from economy fares with reclining seats to First Class options featuring private cabins and shared shower facilities.

Exploring Australia by Train: Day Trips

If long train journeys aren’t for you, or if you're pressed for time, that’s perfectly fine. Whether you're interested in quick trips that last as little as 30 minutes or longer journeys spanning several hours, there’s an option for everyone.

Kuranda Scenic Railway: Cairns to Kuranda

For a picturesque Australian train experience, look no further than the aptly named Kuranda Scenic Railway. This route covers 23 miles through stunning Australian rainforest, showcasing some world-renowned attractions along the way.

As you travel through the UNESCO World Heritage site known as the Wet Tropics of Queensland, you'll enjoy breathtaking gorges, mountains, and waterfalls. This journey includes crossing 37 bridges and passing through 15 tunnels.

Taking approximately 2 hours in total, the trip includes a 10-minute stop at Barron Falls, perfect for capturing a photo of this iconic waterfall. Tickets are available for purchase through the official website. While the train operates year-round, keep in mind that the carriages are over 100 years old, lacking air conditioning, which can make summer rides quite warm.

Puffing Billy: Belgrave to Gembrook

For steam locomotive enthusiasts, the Puffing Billy is an Australian train journey you won't want to overlook. Established in 1899, this coal-fired train ride takes you from Belgrave to Gembrook.

Traveling through the southern foothills just outside Melbourne, you can choose from various day trips that last anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. Most routes include the historic timber Monbulk Creek trestle bridge, which provides breathtaking views of Sherbrooke Forest.

You can purchase tickets for the different routes on the website. Options include a pre-booked picnic for your trip or a First Class gourmet lunch experience. Puffing Billy doesn’t operate daily since it’s primarily run by volunteers, so be sure to check the website in advance to find a suitable date for your visit.

The Overland: Melbourne to Adelaide

Lastly, we have The Overland train route connecting Melbourne and Adelaide. Operating since 1887, this 515-mile journey takes about 11 hours.

As you travel, you'll pass charming towns in Victoria, cross the Murray River, and enjoy stunning views of the Adelaide Hills—this journey truly embodies the romance of train travel.

The train departs twice a week throughout the year, leaving Adelaide for Melbourne on Sundays and Thursdays, and returning on Mondays and Fridays. Tickets can be booked on the official website, with options for Red Service, which includes seats and a licensed café, or Red Premium, offering more comfortable seating and an all-inclusive experience.