Puffing Billy Steam Train Experience
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 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.
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
Meals & beverages
Gratuities
Optional: Puffing Billy + Penguin option is 2 half-day tours joined together & taken on the same day
Optional: Puffing Billy (Belgrave to Menzies Creek Departure), Redwoods & Wine
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Puffing Billy, Redwoods & Wine
Puffing Billy, Redwoods & Wine: Belgrave–Menzies Creek Puffing Billy ride, Redwood Forest, Warburton free time, and Yarra Valley tasting.
Pickup included
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
156 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great half day tour.
T272EJnickb,,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was well organized and ran on schedule. The train was great. The Guide Jaqui was outstanding, knowledgeable and very helpful.
10/10 Great
Kenia M,,Dec 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Was a great experience, Robbie was great tour guide! So glad to found this website on social media. Don’t hesitate to get it.
Pommies on tour with disabilities
JoanneC476,,Dec 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing afternoon on the Lakeside to Gembrook Puffin Billy Railway journey - 45 minute each way train journey was plenty for us Big thank you to Sarah for her assistance on us having someone with a disability - nothing was too much - everyone that works there are so friendly and helpful
Best day around Melbourne
533odays,,Dec 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had such a GREAT day around Yarra Valley. Robbo is an amazing tour guide, a very pleasant guy. We highly recommend Go West and get Robbo if you can.
Both fun and interesting, a must do experience
Valerie B,,Dec 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was a really good trip and Jono was very kind especially as I missed the pickup, my own fault as I was waiting outside the wrong hotel! He was contacted by Go West Tours and came back for me, all smiles with no hint of bad temper in having to turn around. In fact quite the opposite, he went out of his way to make me feel welcome. He was also very informative about the history of Puffing Billy which I found very interesting. He even took some photos and videos of us on the train which he Airdropped to us at the end of the day. The final destination of Emerald Lake Park was delightful and a great place to wander or have a picnic for an hour. I loved the Puffing Billy experience and Jono was a joy
Not to be missed, better on a warm day:)
Tracey B,,Dec 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Sit on station side of train, it gave the best views and best experience.. it says the windows sit 4 people, if you are a size zero I guess it would…other than that 3 persons are cosy :) the staff are amazing, they clearly love their jobs and the customers, the bridge is phenomenal and it’s exhilarating going over. Comfort is not 100 but the fun makes up for it.. the cafe at the end is ok, service is chaotic and it’s expensive for what you receive. Again the staff are lovely! If the weather is warm, sunny and dry this is probably the loveliest excursion in Melbourne… if it’s inclement then bring a coat and warm clothes xxx
Amazing and ineresting trip
munkhsaikhanm2025,,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The guide was absoletly goreous and explained every thing. We love it, thank u so much. Absolutly we will travel with Go West.
Amazing trip!
162crinab,,Dec 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing experience! Jess, our tour guide, was exceptional—warm, knowledgeable, and very helpful throughout the day. The tour itself was well organized, and Puffing Billy is extremely kid-friendly, making it perfect for families. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone.
Great for family members from young to old.
Compass56691,,Dec 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Feel so special to be riding Puffing Billy on its 125th birthday today. Smooth experience from ticketing, in the carriage and throughout the journey. Passionate crew.
Charming Journey
F5694JSiras,,Dec 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Charming journey back in time. Riding the historic steam train through lush forests and scenic valleys was relaxing and fun, especially waving while sitting on the open sided carriages. It's a perfect experience for families and anyone wanting to enjoy beautiful nature with a touch of nostalgia.
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Operated by Go West Tours