AUSTRALIA
Australia's standouts.
The 15 most popular train experiences in Australia right now, with prices, run times and what each day actually involves.
Kuranda by train and Skyrail: World Heritage rainforest views, markets and wildlife in the village, plus Barron Falls.
“We absolutely LOVED the trip. The views on the way up and down are breathtaking. While it was hot on the train (we lucked out with the hottest weather) we stayed hydrated and I had a personal fan. So many photos!!!”
A classic Kuranda day trip from Cairns with Skyrail and the Kuranda Scenic Railway, plus flexible time for wildlife and markets.
“The communication from the tour operator was lacking slightly. I really liked the Skyrail part. The views from there were great and I enjoyed the stops along the way. The train was just okay. Very hot, sticky and crowded. With the lack of rain, the few waterfalls were not that impressive. (I know this isn’t…”
Cairns Skyrail to Kuranda by cable car, then the historic scenic train back. Hotel transfers, markets, and two rainforest views.
“Excellent day trip nice to have the Skyrail and the scenic rail on way back”
Ride the Puffing Billy steam train through the Dandenong Ranges, then meet koalas and kangaroos at Healesville Sanctuary.
“It was really organised and overall very enjoyable, but wish we had an extra hour at Healesville Sanctuary. Would not have minded if we started our day an hour earlier bc 2.5 hours was definitely too short and we didn't get to see everything there. Puffing Billy train duration was perfect though (1hr), and we…”
Puffing Billy steam train and Phillip Island Penguins from Melbourne, with Dandenong Ranges scenery, The Nobbies boardwalks, and sunset penguin sightings.
“I was hesitant about initially booking this trip however my husband and I absolutely loved it. I can’t remember the tour guides name but he was someone from the UK - he was very friendly and informative. He was really interesting and we enjoyed listening to him. The train ride was fab, definitely worth doing…”
Grand Kuranda day trip from Cairns pairs Scenic Railway and Skyrail with butterflies, an Army Duck rainforest ride, and a Dreamtime walk.
“Beware, if the train is unable to transport you to Kuranda they will transport you by bus and will not reimburse you for the train ride. Next step is to protest it on my card.”
Skyrail and Gold Class Kuranda Scenic Railway with free market time, pickup, and optional Signal Cabin tour from Cairns.
“Our tour guide arrived 40 minutes late to pick us up from the designated hotel. Other tour operators told us “they’re always late”.”
Port Douglas to Kuranda via Skyrail and the Scenic Train. Flexible pickup, rainforest views, Kuranda markets, Palm Cove sunset stop.
“Skyrail and train ride were both so much fun. Highly recommend”
Half-day Puffing Billy from Melbourne to Emerald Lake Park with small-group comfort, open-car steam views, and a calm lakeside break.
“Had a good tour with Rhys. The tour is a nice half day tour to start the day. The train ride was nice”
Small-group Kuranda day from Port Douglas: ride the historic Scenic Railway, cable over the rainforest on Skyrail, browse markets, and unwind at Palm Cove.
“Reliable, fun and beautiful tour! Chris was prompt, knowledgable and made the whole experience really effortless. Scenery was stunning, even when the weather wasn't playing ball. Would highly recommend”
Open-carriage Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges plus rainforest walks, bird spotting, and Lakeside steam-history from Melbourne.
“It was excellent , easy going and the tour guide was wonderful and kept us engaged throughout”
Ride Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, then meet native wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary on an 8.5-hour Melbourne tour.
“Fabulous day. Jerry our driver was brilliant funny and knowledgeable about the area animals and vine yards.”
Ride Puffing Billy through the Dandenongs and watch little penguins waddle home at sunset, with coach transport in one long day.
“Loveeed it!! The guide was great! Well organised day, I was lucky to have a small group, so the train carriage had enough space for us to move around. Guide was knowledgeable and funny! Also sorted out drop-off depending on where we stayed which I hugely appreciated! He was also able to stop off at…”
Skyrail to Kuranda, then Gold Class on the historic scenic train back to Cairns with drinks, snacks, and easy transfers.
“Brilliant once in a life time trip on the Kuranda railway. The Skyrail was great up, you must do the stops and not just head for Kuranda. Service on train coming back was fantastic, the views from the train breathtaking. An absolute must.”
Heritage Puffing Billy steam train from Belgrave through the Dandenong Ranges with Wi‑Fi, hotel pickup, and Emerald Lake Park time.
“Great, Visitors should know how Australian's have preserved their heritage line (more than century old) in such a excellent condition.”
