Half-Day Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience w optional Penguins
Overview
Available languages
6 hours
Mobile ticket
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Melbourne to Belgrave, where you’ll board the iconic Puffing Billy, Australia's best-preserved heritage steam train.
Travel through the breathtaking Dandenong Ranges, crossing the famous Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge. Dangle your legs from the unique open-sided carriages while taking in the beautiful views and crisp scents of fern gullies and mountain ash forests.
Arriving at Lakeside, explore Emerald Lake Park’s peaceful walking trails, enjoy the scenic lake, or relax at the café. Visit the Lakeside Visitor Centre to discover the fascinating history of Puffing Billy through interactive exhibits.
After exploring, return to Melbourne in the early afternoon, completing a perfect half-day adventure filled with history, nature, and unforgettable views
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Large bags, strollers, prams, baby capsules, luggage & walkers cannot be brought on board
Total duration includes the travel time.
Combo: Puffing Billy + Penguin option: This package includes our Puffing Billy Half-day tour & our Phillip Island Penguin Parade Afternoon tour
Combo: Puffing Billy + Penguin option: Please note that when booking this package you will participate in both tours on the same day, Puffing Billy in the morning & Penguin Parade in the afternoon. You will have a lunch break in Melbourne between the tours.
Combo: Puffing Billy + Penguin option: If joining this option your return time to Melbourne will be between 9pm-midnight depending on the season
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Pickup from Selected Hotels
WiFi on board
One-way Journey on Puffing Billy
Professional, Friendly & Informative Guide
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Air-conditioned vehicle
English Speaking Tour Guide
Combo: Puffing Billy + Penguin option is 2 half-day tours joined together & taken on the same day
Meals & beverages
Gratuities
What To Expect
Puffing Billy Railway
Upon arriving in Belgrave, you'll step into a piece of living history as you board the iconic Puffing Billy steam train. Dating back to the early 1900s, this world-famous heritage railway offers a unique experience with its open-sided carriages, allowing you to feel the fresh air and immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings.
Dandenong Ranges National Park
As Puffing Billy steams through the enchanting Dandenong Ranges, you'll be treated to stunning views of lush forests, towering trees, and vibrant fern gullies. Along the way, you’ll cross the iconic Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge, offering breathtaking vistas of the serene landscape.
Options
Puffing Billy & Penguins combo
Add on the Penguin Parade: Continue your journey by joining our Phillip Island afternoon tour following your Puffing Billy experience in the morning.
This is a full day experience: You'll return to Melbourne after Puffing Billy & enjoy a lunch break before rejoining for the Phillip Island Afternoon tour
Pickup included
Half-Day Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience
Half-day experience: This half-day option returns to Melbourne at approximately 1:15pm, giving you the whole afternoon to enjoy at your leisure!
Pickup included
Reviews
91 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Cold but impressive experience
Mutsumi H,
Jul 18, 2025
- Viator
5.00Had a wonderful day thanks to this tour. Mike, the guide always talked to me, the staff of steam train were all friendly. As it was cold but sunny, I appreciated the scenery, the sound of steam and the other passengers who sat on the rim. It is recommended that we wear clothes that can get dirty as the ash flies (you get it on your face, too!).
Unforgetable moment.
BongMie L,
Jun 17, 2025
- Viator
5.00What a great experience. My son was so happy to coincide with his birthday, getting a surprise from the tour guide. Highly recommended traveling with Viator & Go West Tour.
Nice great guide !
Merline L,
Jun 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00Very clear instructions for pick up , and friendly guide ! Very nice experience! Nice length of time spend there
It was a great...
Bital S,
May 24, 2025
- Viator
5.00It was a great experience. The driver was super friendly. The attraction is great. Highly recommended.
Fun ride on a historic...
Sofia F,
May 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00Fun ride on a historic train through the countryside. Not too far from Melbourne and our tour guide was knowledgeable and humorous.
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Operated by Go West Tours