Best Australian Train Journeys

Train travel has long been one of the most romantic forms of transportation. The world’s most beautiful landscapes, amazing cities, and picturesque villages can all be viewed from the comfort of your seat aboard a train.

Australia is home to some of the world’s most stunning railway routes and offers travelers an unforgettable experience. From the sun-kissed coastlines to the snow-capped mountain peaks, these are some of the best Australian train journeys you won’t want to miss.

The first journey is a classic: The Ghan train line between Adelaide and Darwin. This three day journey takes passengers through some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes, including Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. Along the way, travelers will enjoy views of red sand dunes, lush landscapes and historic outback towns. Passengers can also take advantage of on board amenities such as fine dining experiences and luxury cabins with en suite bathrooms.

The Indian Pacific train line is another must-do for any traveler looking for an incredible journey through Australia. This four day ride from Sydney to Perth takes passengers through some of Australia’s most spectacular scenery including rolling hillsides, desert plains and ghost towns. Passengers can stop off in Broken Hill or Kalgoorlie along the way, or simply relax in their private cabin and watch the ever-changing landscape go by. With a range of services available on board including fine dining meals, it makes for a truly memorable ride across this vast country.

The Ghan: Adelaide To Darwin

The Ghan is an adventure like no other. A journey that takes you across the continent and all its wonders, it’s a rich experience that binds together people and places like no other train ride can.

It starts in Adelaide, winding its way northwards through the outback of Australia’s Red Centre, eventually arriving in Darwin. Along the way, passengers are immersed in the stunning beauty of the Australian wilderness – from vast red deserts to lush tropical rainforests – experiencing unforgettable sights and sounds, as well as discovering some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. The Ghan’s friendly on-board staff offer assistance and insight into this remarkable journey throughout, making it an enriching and enjoyable experience for all aboard.

From start to finish, it’s an unforgettable trip – one that leaves passengers with lasting memories they’ll never forget.

The Indian Pacific: Sydney To Perth

The Indian Pacific is a cross-continental journey on rails that’s like a silver ribbon connecting two oceans. It winds its way from Sydney to Perth, taking passengers on an epic adventure through the heart of Australia.

Boarding in Sydney, the Indian Pacific rolls across the Blue Mountains and into the Australian Outback. There are daily stops to break up the long journey, including Adelaide and Kalgoorlie. Passengers can get off and explore these towns, then hop back on for more sights of Australia’s vast landscape: wide-open plains, red deserts and bushland.

The train finally arrives in Perth after four days of travel. The city’s laid-back vibe beckons passengers to stay awhile; but for those looking for their next rail adventure, they can start planning their trip down south to Melbourne aboard The Overland…

The Overland: Adelaide To Melbourne

The Overland is an Australian train journey that takes travelers from Adelaide in South Australia to Melbourne in Victoria. It’s one of the oldest rail journeys in the country, with its first official service dating back to 1887. Along the way, passengers get to take in the stunning landscapes and rolling hills of the Grampians National Park.

The Overland offers a range of different classes of travel, from economy seating to luxurious sleeper cabins. Passengers can enjoy amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and dining cars for meals on board. There are also plenty of stops along the way to explore some of Australia’s famous attractions and towns, including historic Ballarat and cosmopolitan Bendigo.

On The Overland, passengers will experience a unique journey through Australia’s diverse countryside with all the comforts that come with modern rail travel. From scenic views to delicious cuisine, this is a memorable ride through some of Australia’s most beautiful regions. Next up: a trip down under on The Great Southern – Brisbane to Adelaide!

The Great Southern: Brisbane To Adelaide

The Great Southern is a train journey that would leave you anything but disappointed. Believe it or not, the journey from Brisbane to Adelaide is actually quite enjoyable! Here’s why.

First off, the scenery on this train journey is breathtaking. It passes through some of Australia’s most picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills and lush green valleys. The train also offers plenty of activities to keep passengers entertained during the long ride, such as live music shows, game nights and film screenings. Plus, there are even meals served in the dining car for those who want to make the most out of their time on board.

And then there’s the views from the windows – what more could you ask for? The train passes through quaint towns and villages, while providing stunning views of rivers, lakes and mountain ranges along the way. With so much to take in along with its comfortable seating arrangements and attentive staff, it’s no wonder why The Great Southern is one of Australia’s best rail journeys.

So if you’re looking for an adventure with a touch of luxury and plenty of stunning views to boot, then this is definitely one train ride worth taking!

The Xpt: Sydney To Melbourne

Time and tide waits for no man, and if you need to get from Sydney to Melbourne, the XPT is the way to go. This iconic train journey takes you all the way south along Australia’s eastern coast in comfort and style.

The experience kicks off with a cityscape of Sydney before opening up into rolling hills of rural New South Wales. Keep your eyes open for glimpses of the ocean as you pass through regional towns like Goulburn and Junee. The food onboard is delicious; think locally-sourced meats, creamy cheeses, and fresh seafood. As you cross over into Victoria, spectacular views of mountain ranges offer a stunning backdrop to your journey home.

The XPT provides an excellent opportunity to see Australia’s diverse landscapes up close. Relax and enjoy the ride as it chugs its way down south – there’s no better way to travel!

The Sunlander: Brisbane To Cairns

The Sunlander takes travellers from Brisbane to Cairns, a trip of over 1,600 kilometres. It’s the perfect way to explore Queensland’s stunning coast and outback terrain. Ride along the beachfront for hours, or admire the views as you pass through lush rainforests. The journey offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and experience unique Australian culture.

You’ll also get a taste of regional hospitality on the Sunlander, with many stops along the way offering local delicacies and souvenirs. The train offers passengers a chance to relax in comfort while taking in all that this beautiful part of Australia has to offer. From luxury cabins to dining rooms and lounges, you won’t be disappointed by your journey on the Sunlander. Move on now and discover the Spirit of Queensland: Brisbane to Cairns.

The Spirit Of Queensland: Brisbane To Cairns

Are you ready to board one of the most exciting train journeys in Australia? If so, then you must hop onto the Spirit of Queensland. This exhilarating trip takes passengers along a beautiful journey from Brisbane to Cairns and promises an unforgettable experience.

As soon as you board this train, you’ll be amazed by its modern and luxurious amenities. It has comfortable seating, a spacious cafe car, and even Wi-Fi access! You’ll also find plenty of activities to keep yourself occupied during the 22-hour ride. Whether it’s watching movies or playing games with your family and friends, the possibilities are endless.

The best part about this journey is that it offers breathtaking views of the coastline and lush rainforest. Plus, you’ll get to explore some small towns on your way up north – giving you a chance to experience the culture and local cuisine. So if you’re looking for an adventure packed with fun activities, stunning scenery, and unique experiences, then this is definitely the journey for you!

The Savannahlander: Cairns To Forsayth

The sun-kissed expanse of the Australian Outback, the brilliant blue sky that stretches for miles and miles, the lush green bushland along the track. Trains traverse this stunning landscape, taking travelers on a journey of discovery through some of Australia’s most iconic terrain. The Savannahlander is one such train.

Departing from Cairns in Far North Queensland, this popular rail route takes passengers south to Forsayth in the Gulf Country. Along the way, there are plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy, including visits to historic stations and towns; opportunities to explore nature trails and bird watching sites; cultural experiences that bring visitors closer to local indigenous communities; and breathtaking views of pristine Lakefield National Park. Passengers can also take part in fishing and boating activities in remote lakeside spots.

Savannahlander journeys offer an unforgettable experience for those looking for a unique adventure into Australia’s wild heartland. By connecting travelers with local cultures and landscapes, it provides an insight into this country’s past, present, and future – all while providing a comfortable, enjoyable ride along its tracks.

The Kuranda Scenic Railway: Cairns To Kuranda

The Kuranda Scenic Railway offers a unique experience, taking passengers through the stunning tropical rainforest of Far North Queensland. Passing by spectacular views and cascading waterfalls, it’s no wonder why this is one of the most popular train journeys in Australia. The journey begins in Cairns and ends at Kuranda, with a number of stops along the way so passengers can get out and explore.

The railway itself is an engineering marvel, built more than 100 years ago. It winds its way up the mountainside and features 15 tunnels, 37 bridges, and some of the steepest inclines ever used on a railway line. The railway also boasts some of the most incredible scenery in Australia, making it an unforgettable journey for all who take part.

At the end of the journey lies Kuranda – a charming village nestled in the rainforest with countless attractions to explore. From here, passengers can choose to return to Cairns or continue their adventure onto other parts of Far North Queensland. With its spectacular views and unique history, the Kuranda Scenic Railway is definitely worth a visit. And now we move on to another great Australian train journey: The Westlander – Brisbane to Charleville.

The Westlander: Brisbane To Charleville

The Westlander is a 12-hour journey, spanning 849 km – making it one of the longest train rides in Australia. Connecting Brisbane and Charleville, this trip takes passengers through some of the most picturesque landscapes of Queensland.

The train is comprised of two services: a day service and an overnight sleeper car. The day service runs once a week, every Tuesday, and offers comfortable carriages for its passengers to enjoy the view in style. While the sleeper car runs three times a week and allows you to travel in comfort while you sleep.

The Westlander doesn’t just offer breathtaking views from your window or the comfort of your sleeping berth; it also has some unique experiences that can only be found on board. From onboard demonstrations by local artisans to live music performances, there’s something for everyone on this journey. Plus, with plenty of stops along the way, you have plenty of time to discover some hidden gems off the beaten track.

No matter how you choose to experience The Westlander – whether it be day or night – you’ll be able to take in stunning landscapes and explore unique experiences throughout your journey. So don’t miss out on one of Australia’s best train rides!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does A Ticket For Each Train Journey Cost?

Train journeys can be incredibly enjoyable and economical, often costing much less than a plane ticket. A recent study showed that the average train trip in Australia costs around $37.57 per person, making it an affordable way to explore the country. Here are some of the best Australian train journeys and how much they cost:

• The Indian Pacific: This 4,352 km journey takes you from Perth to Sydney, passing through Adelaide and Broken Hill. Tickets start at around $619 for a one-way economy fare. 
• The Ghan Expedition: This 3-day 2,979 km journey takes you from Darwin to Adelaide via Alice Springs and Katherine. Tickets start at around $1,095 for a one-way economy fare. 
• The Spirit of Queensland: This 1,736 km journey takes you from Brisbane to Cairns in just over 24 hours. Tickets start at around $100 for a one-way economy fare.

Whether you’re looking for a short trip or an epic adventure, these are some of the most memorable train journeys you can take in Australia – all without breaking the bank!

Are There Any Discounts For Seniors Or Students?

Traveling by train in Australia is becoming increasingly popular, with over 3.4 million passengers alone taking the journey in 2018. Are there any discounts for seniors or students? Yes, there are!

Seniors and students can benefit from discounted prices on fares when traveling by train in Australia. Discounts vary depending on the service provider and time of travel, but a few general rules apply: Seniors over the age of 60 can receive a 25% discount on full fare tickets, while students between the ages of 16-25 can get up to 15% off their ticket price. Here’s a breakdown of some discounts available:

• Senior Discounts:
  • 25% off full fare tickets 
  • Up to 50% off concession fares 
• Student Discounts:
  • 15% off full fare tickets 
  • Up to 30% off concession fares.

These discounts make it easier for seniors and students to explore Australia’s incredible rail network, from the stunning Great Southern Railway to the beautiful Indian Pacific line. Plus, many providers offer flexible travel options that make planning trips even simpler – so everyone can take advantage of these amazing savings and enjoy their journey!

What Amenities Are Available On Board The Trains?

Train journeys in Australia come with a range of amenities. Passengers can take advantage of comfortable seats, onboard entertainment, and a variety of dining options. Depending on the type of train and route, these amenities may vary.

For instance, some trains offer reclining seats and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Others provide passengers with free snacks or meals. There may also be different classes of service available, including VIP cars or sleeping compartments. All this ensures that travellers have a comfortable and enjoyable journey while they explore the country by rail.

Are There Any Scenic Stops Along The Way?

The journey is as important as the destination. Experience the beauty of Australia on one of its most scenic train rides. Are there any stops along the way? Yes, there are! A number of routes provide stunning views of the countryside and coastline while they pass through major cities, national parks and other points of interest.

You can get off and experience these places first-hand. Take in breathtaking coastal views, marvel at historic architecture or explore nature trails. There’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, city slicker or culture enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to explore during your journey.

Travel with ease knowing that all trains come equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, comfortable seating and catering services to make your trip even more enjoyable. So hop on board and enjoy all that Australia has to offer – an unforgettable ride awaits!

Is It Possible To Book Tickets Online?

The thought of a long train journey can evoke a sense of adventure and romance. But, the question remains: is it possible to book tickets online?

It’s not only possible, but it’s also a great way to save time and money. With just a few clicks, you can reserve your seat on some of Australia’s best train journeys. From the legendary Ghan to the Indian Pacific, you can easily find your dream trip online. Plus, most train companies offer discounts for booking early!

So why wait? Booking tickets online is fast, convenient and could help you save more than you think. So hop on board and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Conclusion

We’ve all heard stories of the great Australian train journeys. The ones that take you through ancient forests, along rugged coastlines and into the heart of outback Australia. But how much does it cost to experience one of these iconic trips?

Turns out, prices vary depending on which journey you choose. Most offer discounts for seniors and students, as well as a range of amenities on board. Plus, there are often scenic stops along the way for those who want to take in the beauty of this vast continent. And if you’re looking for a convenient way to book your ticket, many services allow you to do so online.

So why wait any longer? It’s time to start planning an unforgettable journey aboard one of Australia’s best train rides! I guarantee it’ll be worth every penny – even if you don’t get that discounted senior price!