Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Melbourne to Belgrave, where you’ll board the iconic Puffing Billy, Australia's best-preserved heritage steam train.
Travel through the breathtaking Dandenong Ranges, crossing the famous Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge. Dangle your legs from the unique open-sided carriages while taking in the beautiful views and crisp scents of fern gullies and mountain ash forests.
Arriving at Lakeside, explore Emerald Lake Park’s peaceful walking trails, enjoy the scenic lake, or relax at the café. Visit the Lakeside Visitor Centre to discover the fascinating history of Puffing Billy through interactive exhibits.
After exploring, return to Melbourne in the early afternoon, completing a perfect half-day adventure filled with history, nature, and unforgettable views
Available options
Puffing Billy & Penguins combo
Add on the Penguin Parade: Continue your journey by joining our Phillip Island afternoon tour following your Puffing Billy experience in the morning.<br/>This is a full day experience: You'll return to Melbourne after Puffing Billy & enjoy a lunch break before rejoining for the Phillip Island Afternoon tour<br/>Pickup included
Half-Day Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience
Half-day experience: This half-day option returns to Melbourne at approximately 1:15pm, giving you the whole afternoon to enjoy at your leisure!<br/>Pickup included
Puffing Billy, Redwoods & Wine
Puffing Billy, Redwoods & Wine: Belgrave–Menzies Creek Puffing Billy ride, Redwood Forest, Warburton free time, and Yarra Valley tasting.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pickup from Selected Hotels
WiFi on board
One-way Journey on Puffing Billy
Professional, Friendly & Informative Guide
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Air-conditioned vehicle
English Speaking Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Upon arriving in Belgrave, you'll step into a piece of living history as you board the iconic Puffing Billy steam train. Dating back to the early 1900s, this world-famous heritage railway offers a unique experience with its open-sided carriages, allowing you to feel the fresh air and immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
As Puffing Billy steams through the enchanting Dandenong Ranges, you'll be treated to stunning views of lush forests, towering trees, and vibrant fern gullies. Along the way, you’ll cross the iconic Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge, offering breathtaking vistas of the serene landscape.
3
Here, you’ll have the chance to explore interactive exhibits that delve into the rich heritage of Puffing Billy and the surrounding region. You could also enjoy a bite to eat at the cafe or venture out to Emerald Lake Park.
4
This picturesque park invites you to explore its scenic walking trails, where you can take in the serene views of the lake and lush greenery. Alternatively, you can spend more time in or around the Visitors Centre snapping iconic photos!
What's not included
Meals & beverages
Gratuities
Optional: Puffing Billy + Penguin option is 2 half-day tours joined together & taken on the same day
Optional: Puffing Billy (Belgrave to Menzies Creek Departure), Redwoods & Wine
Available languages
Audio guide
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Written guide
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Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
20 reviews
5★
17
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
120 reviews
5★
115
4★
3
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Large bags, strollers, prams, baby capsules, luggage & walkers cannot be brought on board
Total duration includes the travel time.
Combo: Puffing Billy + Penguin option: This package includes our Puffing Billy Half-day tour & our Phillip Island Penguin Parade Afternoon tour
Combo: Puffing Billy + Penguin option: Please note that when booking this package you will participate in both tours on the same day, Puffing Billy in the morning & Penguin Parade in the afternoon. You will have a lunch break in Melbourne between the tours.
Combo: Puffing Billy + Penguin option: If joining this option your return time to Melbourne will be between 9pm-midnight depending on the season
Important notes
❗️ You must contact Go West Tours directly at least 24 hours prior to departure to confirm your booking and pick up details as these will not be provided on your voucher
Phone: +61 39485 5290
WhatsApp: +61 479 146 937
Email: info@gowest.com.au
❗️ Pick up is between 7:00 am-8:00 am depending on which hotel you select to be collected from
❗️ Our guides are unable to wait for extended periods of time for missing guests and we ask that you arrive at the designated departure point at least 10 minutes early
❗️ Large bags, strollers, prams, baby capsules, luggage & walkers cannot be brought on board
❗️ You can enjoy our multilingual tour commentary through the Go West Tours app, which can be downloaded before your tour. Please remember to bring your own headphones, as we are unable to provide these.
Download the app from the links below:
Apple Store: https://qrs.ly/43grh0n
Google Play: https://qrs.ly/3vgrh0r
❗️ All modifications (rebookings, cancellations, or refunds) must be made through the booking platform. The booking platform will inform the tour operator of any changes.
❗️ Go West’s operating hours (Melbourne time) are:
07:00 - 18:00 Monday to Friday
07:00 - 12:00 Saturday, Sunday and Melbourne Public holidays
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
