Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour

Melbourne , Australia

Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour

Active

(323 reviews)

11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

After being picked up from a convenient central Melbourne CBD location in air-conditioned comfort on this full-day tour, your first stop will be the picturesque Emerald Lake in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges where you will have the opportunity to purchase your own lunch and enjoy a leisurely walk around the Lake. Then it's all aboard the world-famous Puffing Billy Steam Train. The train winds through the hills and finishes at Belgrave. Then it's off on a scenic drive to the next stop The Nobbies to take in the vista of this iconic lookout. Next it's time to visit the Phillip Island Wildlife Animal Park where you can purchase dinner before watching the adorable penguins emerge from the rolling waves and make their way home into their burrows.

Available options

Puffing Billy And Phillip Island Penguin Parade Bus Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Entry to ride Puffing Billy (Belgrave to Emerald Lake)

Entry to Phillip Island Penguin Parade

Entry to Emerald Lake

Air-conditioned vehicle

Guide

Entry to The Nobbies

Detailed itinerary

Puffing Billy and Lunch
Ride Puffing Billy Emerald Lake Park to Belgrave. Enjoy this iconic steam train ride through the glorious Dandenong Ranges. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Victoria. You will have the opportunity to purchase your own lunch at the picturesque Emerald Lake. Time spent here includes travel time from pick up, Puffing Billy Train ride, time for you to purchase and eat lunch and enjoy a walk around Emerald Lake.

After taking the scenic route through the Dandenong ranges you will arrive at the Nobbies Tourist Information Centre: Here you will be able to find out all you need to know about the Nobbies Blowhole and Seal Rock precinct. Time spent here includes travelling to The Nobbies and time spent at the information centre

Nobbies Lookout And Boardwalk.
Nobbies Lookout And Boardwalk: Take on the glorious views of the Nobbies and Seal Rock region from this spectacular lookout. Then walk the boardwalk with ocean views to the Nobbies blowhole and Seal Rock and enjoy the stunning surrounds. Time spent here is to explore the boardwalk and take in the views.

Stop 4

Phillip Island Penguin Parade And Dinner.
In the Winter season you can purchase your dinner at Phillip Island Nature Park.
In the Summer season you can purchase your dinner in the historic township of Cowes and enjoy a walk around this seaside town.
After dinner you will be ready to witness the world-famous Penguin Parade. Watch the penguins emerge from the rolling waves and make their way across the sand to their burrows. Time spent here includes time to purchase and eat dinner, time to watch the Penguin Parade and travel time back to Melbourne CBD.

What's not included

All food and beverage is excluded but there will be opportunities to purchase these items while on tour.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

204 reviews

5★

147

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

119 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: ALL babies/toddlers/children up to age 15 must purchase a CHILD ticket.

During peak periods larger vehicles may be used

Important notes

Please meet at Hotel Windsor, 111 Spring St Melbourne.
Your driver/guide will be wearing a Wine Hop Tours polo top.

About Melbourne

Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, and sporting culture. With a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, lush parks, and a thriving coffee culture, Melbourne offers a rich and diverse travel experience.

Top Attractions

Federation Square

Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting major events, exhibitions, and cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

Cultural 1-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

The Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre oasis in the heart of Melbourne, featuring a diverse range of plants, lakes, and walking trails.

Nature 1-3 hours Free

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The MCG is Australia's most iconic sports venue, hosting major events like the Australian Open, AFL, and cricket matches.

Sports 1-3 hours (longer for events) Free to enter (tours and events have fees)

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives, featuring breathtaking coastal views, the Twelve Apostles, and the lush Otway Ranges.

Scenic Drive Full day or overnight trip Free to drive (attractions may have entry fees)

Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's largest and most iconic market, offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and souvenirs.

Market 1-3 hours Free to enter (food and shopping at your expense)

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

The NGV is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.

Art 1-3 hours Free (some exhibitions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast dish featuring toasted sourdough bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.

Breakfast Vegetarian (can be made vegan without eggs or feta)

Lamb Rump

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served medium-rare with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a rich red wine jus.

Dinner Contains meat

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Dessert Contains dairy and egg whites (can be made gluten-free)

Flat White

A popular Australian coffee drink, similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam texture.

Drink Contains dairy (can be made with plant-based milk alternatives)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Dandenong Ranges Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley Kayaking on the Yarra River Spa and wellness retreats Picnics in the Royal Botanic Gardens Beachcombing at St Kilda Beach Visiting museums and galleries Attending live performances and events

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Time Zone

AEST (UTC+10) during standard time, AEDT (UTC+11) during daylight saving time (October to April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Melbourne is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Didi, and always check the fare before starting your journey
• Book tours and tickets through official channels or reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Melbourne Airport • 23 km from city center

By train

Southern Cross Station

By bus

Southern Cross Coach Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a convenient and iconic way to get around Melbourne. The free tram zone in the city center is a great way to explore.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fitzroy St Kilda Carlton Southbank Brunswick

Day trips

Yarra Valley

60 km from Melbourne • Full day

The Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, and stunning natural landscapes.

Mornington Peninsula

80 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, hot springs, and a range of outdoor activities.

Phillip Island

140 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight

Phillip Island is a scenic island known for its wildlife, particularly the famous Penguin Parade, as well as beautiful beaches and coastal walks.

Festivals

Australian Open • Mid-January Melbourne International Comedy Festival • March to April Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) • August

Pro tips

Use the free tram zone in the city center to explore Melbourne's attractions and neighborhoods
Get a myki card for easy and discounted travel on trams, trains, and buses
Visit the Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs
Explore Melbourne's laneways and street art for a unique and authentic experience
Try Melbourne's famous coffee culture at one of the city's many specialty coffee shops and cafes