Dandenong Ranges Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Dandenong Ranges. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience

• Dandenong Ranges Private Day Tour

• Puffing Billy Tour and Penguin Parade from Melbourne

• Yarra Valley Redwoods Tour with Winery Lunch or Wildlife Option

• Winery Lunch by Helicopter to Levantine Hill in Yarra Valley

The Dandenong Ranges are free to visit, but many travelers come here on tours. An ideal way to explore the local area is to take the Puffing Billy steam train—these trips usually start at US$130. It’s also possible to combine the Dandenong Ranges with Yarra Valley explorations, plus lunch and wine for around US$163.

Yes, the Dandenong Ranges are worth visiting, especially for travelers looking to escape Melbourne and experience forests, mountain villages, and scenic railways. The area is most often explored on the Puffing Billy steam train—a fun way to explore Dandenong Ranges at a faster pace than a walking tour, with round-trip hotel transfers as well as the train ride.

Per one customer who booked the Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience, "What a fun trip! Our guide, Bluey, was fantastic and provided lots of interesting commentary during the drives. The train trip itself was very cute. Everyone there is passionate about preserving this little bit of local history."

People head to the Dandenong Ranges for a variety of outdoor pursuits—think hiking, cycling, bushwalking—while many come on city breaks from Melbourne. There are a variety of walking trails to suit all fitness levels, an orchard where you can pick cherries, spas and retreat facilities, vineyards, a cinema, scenic train ride, and spots for great views over the mountains.

Yes, there is plenty for the entire family to do at the Dandenong Ranges. There’s lots of wildlife to spot, like wallabies and lyrebirds, plus children and adults both enjoy riding on the Puffing Billy Railway, which runs through the forest between Belgrave and Gembrook.

Head to the Dandenong Ranges at the end of Australia’s spring or summer for the most temperate weather: around October/November through February. However, be aware that these times tend to be busiest with tourists, especially during school holidays. Consider other months to miss the crowds—just pack warm, waterproof clothes.

No, you don’t need to pay to visit the Dandenong Ranges. You can show up and bring a picnic and enjoy the walking trails through the rainforest, ferns, and the gorgeous views. If you want to ride the Puffing Billy Railway or take a guided tour, you will need to pay.

If you can, spend a few days or even up to a week to fully relax with the natural beauty all around you and explore all there is to do in the Dandenongs. There are plenty of cottages, boutique hotels, and retreats. It’s also possible to do a day trip from Melbourne.

There are tons of things to do when you're done visiting the Dandenong Ranges. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in and around Melbourne:

• Twelve Apostles

• Loch Ard Gorge

• Great Ocean Road

• Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

• Yarra River

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Melbourne.