Exploring Australia by train: The most scenic railway journeys

Australia’s vast landscapes are best appreciated at a leisurely pace, and there’s no better way to do that than by train. With its rugged outback, lengthy coastlines, and lush rainforests, Australia offers some of the world’s most scenic railway journeys. These train trips don’t just get you from one destination to another – they immerse you in the heart of the continent’s beauty, giving you a chance to experience Australia’s unique character along the way. 

Hear, we explore some of the most iconic and picturesque train journeys across Australia, including tips on when to go, what to expect, and how to make the most of each experience. 

The Ghan: Darwin to Adelaide

Stretching over 2,979 kilometres from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the south, The Ghan is arguably Australia’s most famous train journey. It’s a luxury rail experience, taking you across the vast Australian Outback, through the tropical Top End, and the stark landscapes of the Red Centre. 

Highlights

  • Alice Springs: A stop in the heart of the outback offers a chance to explore the rugged surroundings or take a guided tour across the desert. 
  • Katherine Gorge: Another stop along the way, where passengers can take a cruise, hike, or scenic flight to admire the deep sandstone gorges. 
  • Unique experiences onboard: The Ghan offers all-inclusive gourmet meals featuring Australian ingredients, spacious cabins, and exclusive off-train excursions. 

Best time to go
Travel from May to September for milder weather and fewer tourists in the outback. The wet season in the north, from December to March, can make some outdoor activities difficult.

Blue Mountains, Australia

Indian Pacific: Sydney to Perth 

Covering 4,352 kilometres between Sydney and Perth, the Indian Pacific is one of the world’s longest train routes, taking travellers across the entire width of Australia. This four-day journey offers a striking contrast between the blue mountains of New South Wales, the fertile lands of South Australia, and the vast Nullarbor Plain of Western Australia. 

Highlights: 

  • Blue Mountains: Departing from Sydney, the train passes through the stunning scenery of the Blue Mountains, with deep valleys, majestic cliffs, and abundant forests.
  • Broken Hill and Kalgoorlie: These historic mining towns offer a glimpse into Australia’s gold rush history and unique outback culture. 
  • Nullarbor Plain: One of the world’s longest straight stretches of railway tracks runs across this flat, arid, and awe-inspiring landscape. 

Best time to go
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer mild weather and scenic views. Summers across the Nullarbor Plain can be intensely hot.

The Great Southern: Brisbane to Adelaide

The Great Southern, a newer luxury train route, connects Brisbane on the east coast to Adelaide in the south, winding through scenic coastal regions, lush green landscapes, and remote rural areas. This journey spans 2,000 kilometres and is available for a limited season each year, running between December and January. 

Hightlights

  • Coffs Harbour: A beautiful coastal town where you can enjoy white sandy beaches and rolling green hills. 
  • Hunter Valley: Known as one of Australia’s premier wine regions, the Hunter Valley offers opportunities for wine tasting and exploring local vineyards. 
  • The Grampians: This mountain range in Victoria offers extraordinary landscapes, with opportunities for bushwalking, waterfalls, and native wildlife sightings. 

Best time to go
This seasonal journey is only available in the Australia summer, so book early to secure your spot. Despite the warmer weather, the coastal route brings a refreshing ocean breeze.

Spirit of Queensland: Brisbane to Cairns

For those looking to explore Queensland’s coastline, the Spirit of Queensland provides a scenic rail journey from Brisbane to Cairns, spanning over 1,681 kilometres. This rail line takes travellers through lush rainforests, sugarcane fields, and vibrant coastal towns, offering a unique perspective of Queensland’s diverse landscapes.

Highlights

  • Whitsundays region: Takes in views of the stunning islands and sparkling waters as you pass through the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. 
  • Tropical North Queensland: Discover the tropics around Cairns, known for its rainforests, beaches, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef.
  • RailBed seating: The train offers comfortable “RailBeds”, reclining seats that convert into flat beds for overnight journeys, making it a comfortable option for budget travellers. 

Best time to go
Visit between May and October for mild, dry weather. The tropical north experiences a wet season from November to April, which may affect some excursions.

The Overland: Melbourne to Adelaide

A more budget-friendly option, The Overland offers a scenic day-long journey between Melbourne and Adelaide, crossing the Victorian countryside and South Australia’s hills. It’s perfect for travellers looking for a comfortable and leisurely way to travel between these two cities without the extended commitment of a long-distance journey. 

Highlights:

  • Grampians National Park: You’ll have views of the Grampians, a striking mountain range with a rich indigenous history. 
  • Adelaide Hills: As you approach Adelaide, you pass through rolling hills and vineyards giving you, a glimpse of the fertile wine region. 
  • Relaxed, scenic travel: Unlike other luxury trains, The Overland is a straightforward, comfortable, and affordable option for all travellers. 

Best time to go
The Overland operates year-round. Spring and autumn are ideal for this journey due to mild temperatures and colourful landscapes.

Tips for exploring Australia by train

  • Book early for best rates and availability: Many of these train journeys are seasonal and fill up quickly, especially for popular dates. Book several months in advance if possible.
  • Plan excursions: Many trains offer off-train excursions, but they may require advance booking. Choose your excursions based on your interests, from wildlife spotting to historic site visits. 
  • Dress comfortably: Australia’s climates vary widely, so bring layers and prepare for both hot and cool temperatures. 
    Pack essentials: If you’re in a remote area, WiFi may be unavailable. Take books, entertainment, and any essential items for a comfortable journey.

Book with an ABTA member

Exploring Australia by train offers a unique travel experience where the journey itself is part of the adventure. From the expansive outback to grand rainforests and coastal views, each train route offers its own perspective on Australia’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re after a luxury experience like The Ghan or an accessible option like The Overland, there’s a scenic railway journey in Australia waiting for you. 

Speak to an ABTA member who can build your perfect holiday for you. Always look for the logo before booking. Search for a local ABTA member and get planning!