7 Cable Car & Rail Trips in Melbourne That Survive a Second Look

1.Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,220 reviews · 8 hours · from $162Our pick

Leave central Melbourne for Puffing Billy’s steam train through the Dandenong Ranges, then walk around Emerald Lake and explore Healesville Sanctuary. You’ll have time for koalas, kangaroos, platypus, birds of prey, and animal talks before ending at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie. Guides such as Peter, Matty, David, and Emily are known for clear commentary and attentive service.

“Well planned., enough time at sanctuary., didn’t feel rushed..”

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2.Puffing Billy Railway: Heritage Steam Train Journey

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,195 reviews · 2 - 4 hours · from $29Best value

Ride Puffing Billy, a preserved steam railway built in 1900, through the Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne. Choose a journey from Belgrave or Lakeside, enjoy the famous sill-side seating between Belgrave and Lakeside, and allow 2 to 4 hours for the train and Emerald Lake Park area.

“The journey was just as eventful as I had hoped for and I do it again”

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3.Puffing Billy Steam Train & Wildlife Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 640 reviews · 8 hours · from $140

Leave Melbourne by minibus for a one-hour Puffing Billy ride from Belgrave to Lakeside, with open-sided carriages, rainforest views, and the classic leg-dangling tradition. Then spend about two hours at Healesville Sanctuary, home to koalas, kangaroos, and birds of prey. Guides such as Gary, Stuart, Anthony, and Gina add local context along the way.

“Loved the entire trip. The Puffing Billy was a great experience... Something different and such lovely views along the way. The wildlife tour was so good also, had loads of time to go around it and a bit of souvenir shopping time also LeeLee our tour guide was great...her bubbly personality from the moment of pick up to drop off made the day trip a memorable one. Would definitely recommend”

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4.Puffing Billy Train & Penguin Wildlife Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 605 reviews · 12 hours · from $145Top rated

Spend about 12 hours beyond Melbourne with a guide such as Alan, Gina, Jose, or Stuart. Ride Puffing Billy through the Dandenong Ranges, stop at The Nobbies, then watch little penguins come ashore at Phillip Island. General Penguin Parade entry, transport, guide services, train fare, and park fees are included. Bring warm layers and expect a long day.

“The transport arrived on time, and we could all hop on the bus alright. Stuart, the driver, was witty and spoke only when required, giving us rest during the long drive. Puffing Billy was great; there were some delays, but nothing major. The penguin parade was fabulous—recommend everyone to get the Penguin Plus. As the seating is where the penguins will walk up to, and all along the boardwalk when you finish. Great trip, even if you were to drive yourself; it will probably take around the same time as you.”

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5.Puffing Billy And Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 451 reviews · from $163

Ride the Puffing Billy steam train from Belgrave to Emerald Lake, then explore Healesville Sanctuary and the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie. Guides such as Bonnie, Matt, Peter, and Graeme add local stories and practical help. Transport, entry fees, WiFi, and air-conditioning are included, with time for lunch and free chocolate samples.

“Amazing. The words can't describe it. My partner almost convinced me to move there. Nathan was superb. Everyone we interacted with was welcoming.”

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6.Half-Day Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 263 reviews · 6 hours - 1 day · from $126

Ride the historic Puffing Billy from Belgrave to Lakeside in an open-sided carriage, with your legs dangling above fern-filled gullies and the Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge below. A local guide such as Robbo, Lisa, Jono, or Jools handles the timing and adds stories on the drive. The tour returns to Melbourne around 1:15 PM.

“Big thank you to our guide Jono! Jono was very friendly, attentive, and shared with us lots of interesting stories. Thanks for capturing precious moment for us on the train. Puffing Billy was such a big fun! Beautiful scenes on the way. Great for those who don’t drive. Back at the city at around 1:30pm so still lots of time to explore the city in the afternoon. Worth going!”

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7.Puffing Billy Railway & Rainforest Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 239 reviews · 6 hours · from $107

Ride the historic Puffing Billy Railway for one hour in its famous open carriages, with your legs hanging over the side as rainforest slips past. Your English-speaking guide, such as Gina, Mark, or Michael, handles the day from Melbourne pickup to Lakeside. You will also visit Grants Picnic Ground and have free time for coffee, lunch, and railway displays.

“We had a great time, thanks to Margaret for making it even more memorable.”

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