great rail journeys australia

Australia's top 10 epic train journeys

Taylah Darnell

Editorial Assistant

23 February 2023

From vintage sleepers to steam locomotives, see more of Australia by train with these epic rail adventures.

Forget packed flights where you don’t see anything between points A and B. Don’t even consider the drawn-out car journeys with too much traffic and not enough detours. Long gone are the days of long security lines and not enough room in the boot.

The best way to see Australia is by train, with a jam-packed itinerary and everything you need taken care of. Spread across carriages that traverse Australia’s most diverse landscapes, guests can wine and dine, rest and relax and discover somewhere new. Find 10 of the best (in no particular order) below.

1. The Ghan

Known as one of the most legendary rail journeys Australia has to offer, The Ghan traverses some of the country’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Those choosing to travel on the tracks can pick between Darwin to Adelaide , Adelaide to Alice Springs and Darwin to Alice Springs, each trip being reversible. Both on- and off-train experiences are designed to heighten your experience, from your spacious cabin and onboard restaurant and lounge to the stops you make along the way.

The Ghan is one of the best railway journeys on offer in Australia. (Image: Tourism NT/Steve Strike)

2. Indian Pacific

Go coast to coast on this transformative, transcontinental journey from Sydney to Perth via Adelaide or vice versa. Named after the two oceans it connects, the Indian Pacific charts 4352 kilometres across 65 hours. Enjoy a range of luxe experiences both onboard and off , from Barossa Valley wineries and The Nullabor to Australia’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains.

Witness some of Australia’s most jaw-dropping landscapes onboard the Indian Pacific. (Image: Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions)

3. Great Southern

The Great Southern takes guests from one underrated capital city to another in sleek style and comfort. Travel from Brisbane to Adelaide and uncover some of Australia’s best-kept secrets along the way; the Grampians, Hunter Valley and Coffs Harbour . Along the way, indulge in fine dining, premium wines and cosy accommodation onboard as you travel through Australia’s diverse landscape.

Uncover some of Australia’s best-kept secrets on the Great Southern.

4. The Overland

If you’re down for a shorter trip, The Overland is perfect for you. This daylight service travels between two very vibrant but very different cities, Adelaide and Melbourne. Throughout the trip, enjoy visits to small yet mighty Aussie towns like Murray Bridge, Horsham and Geelong . Guests will still enjoy a range of dining options, with semi-reclining seats for your comfort along the way.

The Overland is a daytime service perfect for families. (Image: Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions)

5. Spirit of Queensland

Take in Queensland’s distinctive landscape on the Spirit of Queensland railway journey, running between Brisbane and Cairns. Enjoy seat service, in-transit entertainment, a galley car, showers and convertible chairs into beds, you’ll arrive at your destination relaxed and refreshed. Along the way, discover the delights of the Whitsundays , Townsville , Bundaberg , and the Fraser and Sunshine Coasts.

The Spirit of Queensland traverses the landscape between Brisbane and Cairns.

6. Vintage Rail Journeys

Vintage Rail Journeys’ three rail tours showcase the diversity of Australia in vintage style. Get comfy on a restored 1960s Aurora Australis sleeping train to explore everywhere from Orange to the Blue Mountains in the Golden West; the Riverina , where you’ll get a taste of Australia’s food bowl; and the North Coast , which serves up a mix of coastal and inland beauty from Port Macquarie to the Northern Rivers.

Take in the verdant views of the Blue Mountains onboard with Vintage Railway Journeys. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Scott Mcgregor’s Railway Adventures

Join Aussie presenter, producer and writer Scott McGregor and his experienced guides on fully escorted train tours across the continent . Head down to Tassie for an 11-night circumnavigation of the island state, relive the golden age of rail and river transport in Victoria on Puffing Billy or ride the Savannahlander and other historic railways in outback Queensland.

Travel onboard the legendary steam train Puffing Billy with Scott McGregor’s Railway Adventures.

8. Kuranda Scenic Railway

Immerse yourself in the heritage-listed rainforest of Tropical North Queensland’s Wet Tropics , beginning at sea level in Cairns and winding up to the pretty mountain village of Kuranda , at 328 metres. Enjoy locally sourced refreshments as you zoom through one of the world’s oldest rainforests and past waterfalls plunging into deep ravines.

Journey over the scenic Robbs Monument at the Kuranda railway. (Image: Journey Beyond)

9. Puffing Billy

With four epic adventures to choose from, Puffing Billy is the perfect option for families. Whether you pick Belgrave to Lakeside, Belgrave to Menzies Creek, Lakeside to Gembrook or Belgrave to Gembrook, you’re in for a treat. Puffing Billy, known as Australia’s favourite steam train, was built in 1900 and is based in the stunning Dandenong Ranges.

Puffing Billy is known as Australia’s favourite steam train.

10. Spirit of the Outback

The Spirit of the Outback traverses the heartland of Queensland’s outback from Brisbane to Longreach. Delve into the history and culture of the state via towns like Bundaberg and Emerald. All customers onboard can enjoy a variety of amenities. Single- and twin-cabin guests have access to the Shearers Rest lounge.

Delve into the history and culture of Queensland.

Taylah has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of a book or attempting to write her own. When she's not immersed in the world of words, she enjoys spending time amongst nature, hunting for second-hand treasures and watching/playing a good game of soccer.

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Comments (3)

I would love to go on anyone of these rail trips.

Very informative. Please let us know more about sightseeing of Australia’s nature.

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• The Great Barrier Reef
• The Ghan and Alice Springs
• Uluru and dinner under the stars
• Adelaide and Melbourne
• The Great Ocean Road
• Phillip Island’s penguin parade
• 3 scenic railway journeys
• Barossa Valley wine tour
• Sydney and the Blue Mountains

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• Short Cruise
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• Exciting excursions and free time to explore
• Excursion to the Great Barrier Reef
• Journeys on the Kuranda Scenic Railway and the
• Katoomba Scenic Railway
• Guided tour of Melbourne and Puffing Billy
• Visit to Barossa Valley
• The Great Ocean Road and the Blue Mountains
• Excursions to Uluru, including dinner under the stars and a 'Sunrise and Olga' tour, a visit to the Royal Flying.
• Doctor Service and School of the Air
• Guided tour of Adelaide
• Phillip Island
• Sydney Harbour cruise

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We have been organising outstanding tours for more than 30 years. In that time, we have built on our detailed understanding of both UK and international networks, and are true rail experts. We ensure that we travel on the most convenient trains and (where applicable) the most comfortable sleeper trains.

On most of our holidays, rail journeys are made in the highest class available on the train - and this is included in the price of the holiday, rather than being offered as an upgrade option with more to pay. On the Eurostar we generally travel in Standard Premier Class, the first class option for leisure travellers, with a light meal, alcoholic drinks and tea/coffee served on board. On most holidays we continue in First Class on inter-city routes across Europe all the way to your destination.

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We know how important it is to stay in a hotel within easy reach of the attractions, and so our hotels are generally ideally located for the station and the places of interest. Each hotel boasts comfortable beds, spacious bathrooms and plenty of storage, whilst minibars, hairdryers, in-room safes and telephones are a feature in almost every hotel on our programme. The star rating of each hotel varies between 3 and 5 stars; we look for our hotels to have the perfect mix of excellent facilities, a great location, and which offer fantastic value for money to our customers.

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8 best train journeys in Australia

From historic railway day trips to trans-continental tracks, we reveal the best train journeys in australia.

F orget flying, train travel is absolutely the best way to explore Australia without having to drive yourself around. A moving window taking in the country’s incredible, diverse landscapes — from historic rail day trips to transcontinental crossings — railways offer the opportunity to journey between cities without missing the hundreds of miles of wonderful wilderness in between.

Main photo: the Great Southern at Coffs Harbour

1. The Indian Pacific, Sydney to Perth

Stretching the width of the continent, from Sydney on the east coast to Perth in Western Australia, the Indian Pacific is Australia’s longest train journey and one of its most epic. Over the course of 70 hours you’ll cover 2,704 miles, including the longest unswerving length of railway in the world: 297 miles of dead-straight track.

Although the line was completed in 1917, the Indian Pacific didn’t become a passenger service until 1970, and today it provides a luxurious travel experience in both its gold service and platinum service quarters, with en suite shower rooms, comfy beds in wood-clad cabins, and fine wines and delicious dishes served in the dining car.

The Indian Pacific runs across the country in both directions, but setting out from Sydney you’ll first pass the Unesco world heritage-listed Blue Mountains — just an hour outside of the city — famed for their inky hues caused by short-wave rays of blue light being scattered by the droplets of eucalyptus oil that waft up from the forest below.

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After stopping in Broken Hill — Australia’s longest-running mining town, known as Silver City — the Indian Pacific snakes into South Australia’s capital, Adelaide, where you’ll alight for a range of day tours, that centre around the region’s fantastic food and wine, especially the vineyards of McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley.

Then it’s off into the wilderness, taking in the Nullarbor Plain — 77,000 square miles of immaculate isolation and the world’s largest expanse of exposed limestone bedrock — ghost towns, desolate cattle stations, red desert, salt flats, and iconic wildlife, on the way to Australia’s sunniest city: Perth.

2. Kuranda Scenic Railway, Cairns to Kuranda

Snaking through the Unesco world heritage-listed Wet Tropics of Queensland, the serpentine Cairns to Kuranda line passes gorgeous gorges and majestic mountains, runs right beneath waterfalls, winds across 37 bridges, and slips through 15 tunnels in this wild and wonderful train trip in the far north of Queensland.

Running 23 miles from Cairns — gateway to the Great Barrier Reef — and over the Great Dividing Ranges to the rainforest village of Kuranda, this beautiful train trip takes just under two hours to make the one-way journey. That includes a ten-minute break at Barron Falls Station, which bring spectacular, unobstructed view of Barron Falls — little more than a trickle during the dry season, but a staggering sight in the wet.

3. Puffing Billy, Belgrave to Gembrook

If you long for the golden age of rail travel then you’ll definitely want to make time to take a ride on the legendary Puffing Billy Railway. Dating back to 1899, this narrow-gauge, coal-powered steam locomotive route is among the world’s most popular steam heritage railways and it runs through the southern foothills of Victoria’s striking Dandenong Ranges on the outskirts of Melbourne.

Unlike some of Australia’s continent-spanning sleeper trains, Puffing Billy Railway is primarily run by enthusiasts and volunteers. You can choose from a variety of scenic day-trips, which vary in length and cost, but typically range from 30 minutes to two hours for a one-way trip.

Whether you travel from Belgrave to Menzies Creek, Emerald, Lakeside or on to Gembrook, routes usually cross the historic, timber-framed, Monbulk Creek trestle bridge and offer verdurous views of Sherbrooke Forest, under the canopies of mountain ash — the world’s largest flowering plant.

Take a short trip and tuck into an onboard picnic, or book into a first-class carriage and enjoy a white-tablecloth gourmet lunch experience as you ride these iconic rails.

4. The Great Southern, Adelaide to Brisbane

A relative newcomer to Australia’s suite of luxury, experiential train journeys, The Great Southern route only launched in December 2019. It takes passengers on a three-day northbound trip or a four-day southbound itinerary.

Linking Adelaide to the wonderful — woefully overlooked — sizzling city of Brisbane , this service explores the outlandish landscapes and extraordinary experiences across Australia’s diverse southeastern corner, and — just like its sister routes, the Ghan and the Indian Pacific — your ticket to ride includes luxurious sleeping quarters (bunk beds in Gold accommodation and double beds in Platinum), dining, drinking and off-train excursions.

Running exclusively during the (Antipodean) summer, the route makes stops in Victoria’s stunning Grampians Ranges: a fantastic area for hiking, riddled with a network of sylvan trails that often end in breathtaking cragged escarpments, overlooking the Victoria Valley. Such treks also reward rock climbers and casual walkers with ancient Aboriginal rock art sites dating back to when this place was known only as Gariwerd.

At Australia’s capital city, Canberra, you’ll stop to take in the lesser-visited, modern heart of the nation, and get a glimpse of Australia’s recent history at the humbling, National War Memorial. For the shape of things to come, visit Parliament House.

The final stop before arriving in glitzy, outdoorsy, surprisingly artsy Brisbane is the laid-back, beach town of Coffs Harbour, a great place to top up your tan on the sand, in the sea or simply while browsing the eclectic Harbourside markets.

5. Spirit of the Outback, Brisbane to Longreach

Heading west for over 820 miles, the Spirit of the Outback is a government-run sleeper train service that departs from the glossy metropolis of Brisbane and spends 26 hours travelling through rugged Queensland outback to the remote settlement of Longreach.

Accommodation classes onboard range from standard economy fares, which cover reclining seats and footrests (but no bedding), right through to the private cabins of the first-class carriages, which contain bunk beds, bedding, wardrobes, power points, and hand basins, as well as shower facilities at the end of each carriage. First-class fares also include all onboard meals, which ranges from Australian fine dining in The Tuckerbox Restaurant to snacks and drinks in the Captain Starlight Lounge and the Stockman’s Bar.

The train passes through the quirky, heritage mining towns of Blackwater, Emerald, and Barcaldine before arriving in Longreach, and upon arrival you can enjoy tours of the town, take a sunset cruise on the Thomson River, and visit the Qantas Founders Museum, historic home of the world’s third-oldest airline.

Longreach’s best-known attraction, however, is the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, which was opened by the Queen in 1988, and pays tribute to cattle ranchers, pioneers, explorers, and settlers of the Australian outback.

6. The Overland, Melbourne to Adelaide

With a history dating back to 1887, The Overland — originally known as the Intercolonial Express — connects the states of South Australia and Victoria. Travelling between their capitals, the route was soon dubbed the Melbourne Express when headed eastbound from Adelaide, and the Adelaide Express when heading west from Melbourne .

Spanning a distance of 515 miles, the daytime-only journey takes around 10-11 hours each way, and takes in quaint Victorian towns; crosses Australia’s longest river, the Murray River; and glides through the bucolic Adelaide Hills.

Despite its 130-plus years of history, the privately operated Overland remains in service due to the support of government subsidies and – with the ever-present threat of funding withdrawal looming in recent years — its best to make this trip while you’re still sure you can.

7. The Ghan, Adelaide to Darwin

The Ghan — pronounced so it rhymes with “can”, and named after the Afghan cameleers who once plied this route via dromedary — might just be the most memorable way to cross Australia.

Travelling from Adelaide in the south of the continent to Darwin in the Northern Territory, or vice-versa, The Ghan cuts straight through the Red Centre: Australia’s most famous patch of outback.

Run by the same company as The Indian Pacific, the standard of train travel is an identical, five-star experience, with the same carriages and quarters found on that east-west route. While the onboard experience is familiar, however, the views and the stops along the way are from another planet.

Departing Adelaide, its wine country, and rural South Australia’s sprawling swathes of golden savannah, you’ll first pass the dramatic Flinders Rangers, and then Cooper Pedy. This is an isolated opal-mining community where locals live in incredible, troglodytic cave dwellings to escape the fierce heat of the sun.

Moving on, you’ll visit the city of Alice Springs, which serves as a rough and ready outback outpost worthy of Crocodile Dundee and the gateway for an unforgettable flight, or road trip, to Watarrka National Park. Here you can hike up Heartbreak Hill to experience the vertiginous Rim Walk at Kings Canyon, where antediluvian marine fossils are inscribed into 330-million-year-old sandstone; and marvel at the 36 sandstone domes of Kata Tjuta, overlooked by the 3,500ft Mount Olga.

Let’s not beat about the Bush though: the Red Centre’s undoubted highlight is Uluru. Deeply sacred to the indigenous Anangu people, Uluru is much more than a big, red rock. Visit at dawn or dusk, when its colours deepen through day-glow orange, to dusky plum and on to colours without name and you’re sure to find it magical too.

At Nitmiluk Gorge, there are scheduled stops to explore the Katherine River by boat, canoe, or on foot (or even by swimming outside of crocodile season). Here you can inspect the ancient aboriginal rock art that adorns bluffs of billion-year-old sandstone.

Finally, your trip ends in tropical Darwin, capital of the Northern Territory, and a hub for trips to Kakadu National Park, the Tiwi Islands, and more outback adventures. All aboard!

8. Victorian Goldfields Railway, Maldon to Castlemaine

Offering not just the opportunity to ride on a historic train, but also to actually drive a classic steam locomotive, the Victorian Goldfields Railway plies an 11-mile route between the 19th-century gold rush boomtowns of Castlemaine and Maldon in Victoria.

Originally opened in 1884, but today running purely as a tourist attraction, the railway’s locomotives and rolling stock date from the early to mid-20th century, and the line is primarily serviced by steam engines, operating two return trips on Wednesdays, Sundays and on public holidays.

Outside of these times, the railway offers anyone over the age of 18 the chance to try a full-day train driving experience, taking charge of a train for a whole return journey. Come the fire-danger months between December and March, the steam locomotives can be swapped for diesel trains, so if you have your heart set on getting sooty, avoid visiting during Australia’s summer.

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8 Best Train Journeys to Take in Australia 

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA FROM A TRAIN! HERE ARE THE BEST TRAIN JOURNEYS IN AUSTRALIA.

Australia, a land of sheer diversity and natural wonder, offers some of the most unique and enchanting train experiences in the world. Traveling across this vast country by rail, you’ll be introduced to a symphony of landscapes, from the rugged outback to lush rainforests, all the while indulging in the luxury of your carriage.  

As you plan your next adventure, consider the rhythm of the rails and the allure of discovering Australia’s heartland through its iconic train experiences. Each rail journey in Australia is a chapter in a larger narrative that weaves through the continent’s ecology and history.  

These services don’t just transport you from one city to another; they offer a panoramic lens through which you can witness the untouched splendor of Australia’s vast wilderness. Explore eight of the best train experiences that will redefine your travel expectations and lead you through an unparalleled exploration of the Australian landscape. 

Table of Contents

1. Adelaide To Darwin Train Experience 

Embark on an epic journey stretching from the southern shores to the tropical north with the Adelaide to Darwin Train Experience . This transcontinental odyssey is a microcosm of Australia’s ecological and cultural tapestry. Watch as the train snakes its way through the heartland, with the scenery shifting from the rolling vineyards of South Australia to the arid Red Centre and, finally, to the lush tropics of the Top End. 

The trip’s beauty stems from the breathtaking scenery and the rich stories each location harbors. From the historic townships of the pioneering past to the sacred sites of indigenous heritage, there’s a wealth of knowledge to absorb. Enjoy world-class service and amenities, making the experience as pleasurable as the destinations. 

Off-train excursions are designed to enrich your understanding of the local culture and environment. The Adelaide to Darwin route offers more than just a passage through the country—it invites you to immerse yourself in the essence of Australia’s soul, ensuring memories as varied as the landscapes you traverse. 

2. The Indian Pacific: Sydney To Perth 

Traverse the continent from the Pacific Ocean in the east to the Indian Ocean in the west on the Indian Pacific. Beginning in the bustling harbor city of Sydney, you’ll glide through the misty Blue Mountains before stretching across the endless plains of the Nullarbor. 

The train’s name reflects the meeting of two oceans, but the adventure is as much about the land in between. You can stop at Broken Hill, a quintessential Australian mining town where the spirit of the outback comes alive. It’s a vibrant mix of art, history, and frontier ruggedness that captivates. 

Onboard, your experience is designed for luxury and relaxation. Fine dining and comfortable sleeper cabins ensure the landscape isn’t the only thing to marvel at. Your days are marked by changing views and your nights by a canopy of stars, rarely seen by those in cities. 

3. The Ghan: Adelaide To Darwin 

The Ghan, named after the Afghan cameleers who once traversed this route, is a rail journey that embodies the pioneering spirit of the outback. Departing from Adelaide, you’ll view the country as few Australians have seen. The red hues of the outback soil against the brilliant blue skies create a mesmerizing tableau. 

The journey’s midpoint, Alice Springs , is a launchpad for numerous adventures, including the opportunity to learn about the traditional landowners, the Arrernte people. Uluru rises from the landscape in the Red Centre, a monolith as spiritual as it is geological. 

On the Ghan, accommodations are sumptuous, ensuring the voyage is as comfortable as it is captivating. A range of onboard experiences, from dining under the stars to educational talks, provides a comprehensive insight into the Australian outback. 

4. The Great Southern: Adelaide To Brisbane 

The Great Southern offers a seasonal voyage connecting Adelaide and Brisbane over three days. You will witness the changing landscapes from Victoria’s Grampians range to the rolling vineyards and pastoral lands of New South Wales. 

As the Great Southern approaches Brisbane, the vistas transform again, with subtropical foliage heralding your arrival. Brisbane, a cosmopolitan riverside city, greets you with arts, dining, and sunny charm. 

The journey is enhanced by off-train excursions that showcase the region’s flavors. Whether it’s wine-tasting in the Barossa Valley or beachside dining in Coffs Harbour, a wealth of experiences awaits you. 

5. Queensland Rail Travel 

Discover the splendor of Australia’s Sunshine State with Queensland Rail Travel services like the Spirit of Queensland and the Tilt Train. More than just transport, they are an invitation to a tropical paradise where the ocean meets rainforest. 

You’ll journey to Cairns, a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, and catch glimpses of the state’s sugar cane landscapes and coastal vistas. On-demand entertainment and seats that convert to lie-flat beds ensure you’re immersed in both the beauty outside and the comfort inside. 

6. The Spirit Of Tasmania 

While not a train journey, the Spirit of Tasmania ferry service complements the railway adventure by connecting the mainland to Tasmania. Crossing the Bass Strait, you’re taken to a land of wild and picturesque landscapes. Continue your exploration with Tasmania’s scenic drives that echo the diverse experiences offered by Australia’s rail journeys. 

As you sail, the Spirit of Tasmania offers amenities and comforts that match the quality of Australia’s train services, making your maritime crossing an integral part of your adventure. 

7. The Overland: Melbourne To Adelaide 

Rediscover the romance of railways with The Overland, linking Melbourne and Adelaide for over 130 years. The daytime trip reveals the diverse landscapes of Victoria and South Australia, with the Grampians Mountain range as a scenic highlight. 

The trip showcases Australia’s natural diversity, offering views from vineyards to untamed bushland. Enjoy the comfort of Red Premium seats and let the train’s rhythm lull you into relaxation. With frequent services, The Overland provides a practical and scenic option for travelers to explore the southern states at their leisure. 

8. Heritage Railways 

Across Australia, several heritage railways take you back in time. These heritage journeys let you relive the golden age of rail travel, waving at bystanders from open-sided carriages and crossing historic bridges—a chance to see the country through the eyes of those who shaped it. 

From steam trains chugging through the Dandenong Ranges to vintage diesel locomotives in Tasmania, each ride is a living museum piece, delighting both rail enthusiasts and casual travelers. 

In Conclusion 

Australia’s train journeys are as diverse as they are magnificent, offering an unforgettable way to see the continent. Each is an adventure, promising romance, unparalleled scenery, and a touch of luxury that turns travel into an art form. Whether seeking the solitude of the outback, coastal beauty, or mountain splendor, there’s a train journey waiting to take you there. 

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Great Southern

With its rugged coastline, sun-kissed beaches, forested peaks, and exhilarating capital cities, the stunning train journey between Brisbane and Adelaide feels like nowhere else in Australia.

Relax with everything taken care of on board including fine dining, premium wines and world-class hospitality, as you’re transported from buzzing cities to diverse landscapes and natural marvels.

YOUR GREAT SOUTHERN EXPERIENCE

Everything is included.

There’s nothing like putting down your suitcase and allowing your journey to simply unfold. Once you step aboard our trains, you can relax, knowing everything has been considered and included in your fare.

From world-class food and wine to a range of immersive Off Train Experiences, the hardest decision you’ll need to make is what to have for lunch and which experience to join. Australians know their unique summer deserves to be celebrated – and that’s just what a Great Southern journey is all about.

Find out more about your onboard experience, service levels and Off Train Experiences.

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To see all available options for The Overland, please press the button below to be redirected to our online booking engine.

Great Southern Rail Journeys are only available in January and December

To book this package please call or email [email protected] .

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The Indian Pacific, South Australia © Journey Beyondrail/Andrew Gregory

Australia's luxury train vacations

Romance awaits aboard Australia’s lavish long-distance sleeper trains.

By Amy Fraser and Krysia Bonkowski

Four days, three states, two oceans and one train. The Indian Pacific isn’t just any train journey, it’s an epic escape from day-to-day life, an adventure of a lifetime and one of the best ways to experience the true beauty of Australia. Picture the majestic Blue Mountains in New South Wales, the rolling hills and winding streams of Western Australia , the bubble-gum pink lakes of South Australia and the iconic Nullarbor Plain ; you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled and your camera at the ready. Choose to hop on at any leg of the journey, or sit back for an epic four days from one ocean to another along the world’s longest stretch of straight railway.

Over three to four days, the Great Southern sweeps through one of the most diverse corners of the nation – venturing from the lush folds of South Australia’s Adelaide Hills, to the rugged Grampians mountain range in Victoria, past the lazuline shores of the New South Wales north coast and on to Brisbane. Four Australian states in a handful of days; it’s the ultimate way to see the country's ever-changing landscapes, all the while indulging in the world-class luxuries. This all-inclusive journey runs only once a year, across summer. The best part? The itinerary changes with the direction, giving you the perfect excuse to hop back on and do it all anew.

No distractions, no complications – just you and the monumental Australian outback. Traversing almost 3,000km (1,864mi) across some of the most hard-to-reach and jaw-dropping pockets of Australia, the Ghan journey is truly awe-inspiring. Snaking your way through the heart of the outback, you’ll see a new side to Australia – and perhaps yourself. From stylish interiors to indulgent experiences; the Ghan isn't one of the world’s most celebrated train journeys just for the route – it's the whole experience. To top it off, you'll have the opportunity to create your own adventure, choosing between a handful of routes and journeys.

26 hours and 1,300-odd km (808mi) – that’s all it takes to see the soul of western Queensland . As the Spirit of the Outback sleeper train chugs inland from Brisbane, lush greenery gives way to a land tinted gold and bronze by the sun. Between the Australiana-themed dining cars serving Queensland produce and the cattle stations stretching to meet the endless horizon, it’s an experience unique to this corner of the world. A place steeped in lore and legend – the inspiration for bush poet Banjo Paterson’s ballad “Waltzing Matilda” – the Queensland outback still echoes the bushrangers, prospectors, and hardy drovers that once roamed here.

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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Indian Pacific Rail Journeys

Travel by rail on the Indian Pacific between Sydney, Adelaide and Perth and you will embark on one of the worlds great train journeys. This transcontinental adventure on the Indian Pacific offers an unsurpassed view of Australia over three nights and four unforgettable days.

Named after the two oceans that it travels between, the Indian Pacific will take you from one edge of this continent to the other, East to West (or vice versa) across the Blue Mountains and the vast Nullabor. The Indian Pacific delivers so much more than an extended train ride. It promises access to parts of Australia no other holiday can come close to, the perfect balance of comfort and adventure culminating in an experience that will move you in every sense of the word. 

During your time aboard the Indian Pacific, all superb restaurant-quality dining and onboard beverages and off train touring are included . 

Depart Sydney

Depart adelaide, depart perth, indian pacific route.

4,352 kms (2,704 miles)

4 days, 3 nights in either direction

Sydney - Adelaide - Perth (or vice versa)

Call Now - 1300 872 465

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Unmissable Rail Journeys Across Australia

Explore the heart of Australia by luxury train, where the spirit of old-world travel and extraordinary experiences connect at every turn.

Unpack once, dine like a queen and cross from bustling cities to remote outback towns in refined style. Slow travel doesn’t get any better than this.

Choose your next adventure

Australia is home to two of the most iconic trains in the world—The Ghan and The Indian Pacific.

Both trains are renowned for elegant accommodation, fine dining, top-notch service and unique itineraries. So how do you choose between them? It all comes down to which remarkable route you want to experience first.

Immerse yourself in the red centre of Australia from Adelaide to Darwin, with Off Train Experiences in Marla, Alice Springs and Katherine.

THE GHAN EXPEDITION

Book a spectacular outback crossing between Darwin and Adelaide, with time to explore Katherine, Alice Springs and Coober Pedy.

INDIAN PACIFIC

Cross Australia from coast to coast between Perth, Adelaide and Sydney. Marvel at The Blue Mountains, Broken Hill and unspoilt sights along the way.

GREAT SOUTHERN

Explore the East Coast of Australia between Brisbane and Adelaide in December and January. Discover Coffs Harbour, The Hunter Valley and The Grampians.

POINT REWARDS

Earn 1 Qantas point for every $1 spent on eligible rail journeys*

STAY A LITTLE LONGER. IT’S MAGICAL OUT THERE.

Your holiday doesn’t have to end when you roll into the last station. We’ve curated a handful of high-end luxury escapes to keep the magic alive, well after the train engine cools.

Hideaway on a private island oasis, sail a superyacht, adventure on a high-end safari or indulge your senses at a Michelin-starred winery estate. There’s something for every taste and budget.

Meridian Travel, Kirsty and her team are just the best for personal service compared to the high street big franchises shops we looked at…Nothing was too much trouble for the team as they got to know us and our requirements… I commend Kirsty and recommend her team to anyone that wants a top personalized package, not just a brochure dropped in your lap to pick a holiday.

COLIN AND WENDY

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