Day Trips from Melbourne to Puffing Billy Railway

Visitors often miss some of Melbourne’s best attractions because they don’t know how to reach the city's outer locations. This full-day tour makes visiting easy by handling the transport for you. Travel from the city out to the Dandenong Ranges to ride the famous Puffing Billy steam train, then go see all sorts of native Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary.

Whether it’s your child or your inner child that loves steam trains and penguins, getting the timing right to watch little penguins parade on Phillip Island is a challenge. Skip the stress of the long drive when you join this convenient tour, which includes not only the penguins but the Puffing Billy Railway steam train. Upgrade to the Penguins Plus package for an even better view of the parade.

See a side of Melbourne that way too many tourists don’t get to see, and immerse yourself in a side of Australia’s history that you don’t want to miss. Ride the Puffing Billy Railway, which first opened back in 1900, with your legs dangling over the open carriages and soak up the lush rainforest views that you don’t get anywhere else.

Reaching the Puffing Billy railway in the Dandenong Ranges takes some sorting from central Melbourne, especially without a car. Ride out with transport arranged, then board the heritage steam train through the ranges, with the open-sided carriages that the line is known for. At the Lakeside Visitor Centre, walk around Emerald Lake Park and stop for food (own expense) before returning.

It’s so tempting to explore further afield from the city when you’re on vacation, but between planning the route and the itinerary, it can feel like more trouble than it’s worth. But not so with this Puffing Billy tour Penguin Parade combo tour, which treats you to a side of Melbourne that way too many tourists don’t get to see, and with convenient pickup from a selection of hotels too.

Let one simple booking sort out a whole day’s worth of Melbourne sightseeing and get a unique first-hand experience with not just Aussie nature, but a piece of its history too on this Puffing Billy, forest, and Yarra Valley combo tour. Start by hopping aboard the over-100-year-old railway, before walking around huge Californian Redwoods, then finish the trip with a glass of wine at a Yarra Valley winery.

Combine sightseeing and wildlife in a single, full-day trip from Melbourne—no planning or research required. Head out of the city for photo ops of Brighton Beach’s Bathing Boxes, before a stop at Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary to see koalas and kangaroos. Sip fine wines in the Yarra Valley (own expense), then cross the Dandenong Range on board the Puffing Billy Steam Train.

Take and experience the oldest Puffing Billy Steam Train in Australia. Indulge in a tour of the cherry orchard and taste delicious cherries while picking. Travel to the dazzling world of chocolate and savour the delicious chocolates. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Yarra Valley at your leisure. (Minimum group size: 10 people)

Steam Train & Penguin Island Day Tour Experience a perfect blend of history, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery with our Steam Train & Penguin Island Day Tour. Start your adventure with a nostalgic steam train ride through lush Australian landscapes. Feel the excitement as you travel back in time, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Next, head to Penguin Island to witness the magical Penguin Parade. As the sun sets, watch hundreds of adorable little penguins waddle from the sea to their burrows, creating a truly unforgettable wildlife experience. Your expert guide will share fascinating facts about the penguins and their conservation. With comfortable air-conditioned transport, a guide, and Steam Train and Penguin Standard Viewing tickets included, this seamless tour offers the perfect day out for nature lovers and families. Book your Steam Train & Penguin Island Day Tour now for a memorable Australian adventure!

Explore the scenic beauty of the Yarra River Valley, where picturesque landscapes await. This tour includes a visit to Rochford Wines, along with a chance to taste the exquisite wines at Domaine Chandon. Enjoy a delightful lunch at the Yarra Valley Chocolate and Ice Cream Factory (at your own expense) before hopping on a steam train for a unique journey through the Dandenong Mountains. Conclude your day back in Melbourne, reflecting on the flavors and sights experienced during this leisurely adventure. - Discover the charm of the Yarra Valley with winery visits - Savor wines at Yering Station and Domaine Chandon(at your own expense) - Enjoy lunch at the Yarra Valley Chocolate and Ice Cream Factory - Experience a scenic steam train ride in the Dandenong Mountains