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