From the sunburnt outback to lush coastal rainforests, Australia’s diverse landscapes make it a perfect playground for scenic train journeys. Train travel offers a relaxing and immersive way to experience Australia’s beauty. Along the way, you’ll take in incredible views, meet fellow travellers, and uncover the stories behind each destination.
At Remitly, we understand how special it is to explore a new place, whether you’re an immigrant settling in or a long-time resident looking to see more of the country. In this guide, we’ll cover popular routes, including the Ghan, the Indian Pacific, and Southern Australia.
Introduction to Australia’s scenic railways
Train travel in Australia isn’t just about getting from A to B; the journey is an experience in itself. Legendary routes like The Ghan and the Indian Pacific take you deep into Australia’s most stunning landscapes. Regional trains and scenic routes, like the Spirit of Queensland or the Overland, provide stunning views and a relaxed travel experience without the premium price tag.
History of train travel in Australia
Australia’s rail history began in 1854 with the first passenger train between Melbourne and Port Melbourne. As networks expanded, trains became essential for connecting remote communities and transporting goods across vast distances.
Iconic routes like The Ghan and Indian Pacific started as vital transport links before becoming world-class tourism experiences. By 1970, the Indian Pacific became Australia’s first transcontinental rail service. Today, train travel blends history with modern comfort, offering a unique way to explore the country while tracing the footsteps of early explorers and settlers.
Why train travel is popular in Australia
With its vast landscapes and long distances between its most popular cities, Australia is a country best experienced slowly. This is what makes train travel so useful. Unlike flying, which skips over the journey, or long drives that require constant attention, trains let you sit back and truly take in the scenery.
Whether you’re travelling short distances or planning a multi-day adventure across the country, trains provide a comfortable, stress-free way to explore. No traffic, no airport queues, just the ever-changing view outside your window. For anyone wanting to connect with Australia beyond Australia’s big cities, train travel makes the journey just as memorable as the destination.
The Ghan: exploring Australia’s Red Centre by train
Covering nearly 3,000 kilometres from Adelaide to Darwin, this legendary rail trip takes you through the country’s vast Red Centre, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the outback. Named after the Afghan cameleers who once travelled these inland trade routes, this journey offers passengers a deep dive into Australia’s interior.
What to expect on the The Ghan
The Ghan’s journey begins in Adelaide, South Australia’s capital, which is famous for its food, festivals, and nearby wine country. As the train departs, city views give way to rolling hills, farmland, and, eventually, the vast outback.
Midway, the train stops in Alice Springs, the heart of the Red Centre. This historic town is the gateway to Uluru and Kata Tjuta, and many travel packages offer side trips to see these iconic landmarks.
The journey ends in Darwin, a tropical city known for its laid-back atmosphere and rich cultural mix. This area is known for the Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. Darwin is also home to vibrant markets, harborside dining, and fascinating wartime history, making it a great place to end your scenic train journey.
Highlights along the way
One of the biggest draws of The Ghan is the chance to see Uluru up close, with optional tours available if you want to experience the monolith at sunrise or sunset. You can also choose off-train excursions in Alice Springs to add to the adventure.
The real magic of The Ghan is the ever-changing scenery outside your window. From rust-red deserts to grasslands, the landscapes change dramatically as you move through the country. Remember to keep an eye out for kangaroos, emus, and even dingoes, all part of the outback’s unique wildlife.
Tips for travellers
- Book early: This journey is popular, especially between June and August, so plan ahead to secure your seat.
- Dress in layers: The outback gets hot during the day and chilly at night, so it helps to pack for changing weather.
- Upgrade options: Gold and Platinum service options give you access to private cabins, gourmet meals, and luxurious lounges.
The Indian Pacific: a coast-to-coast train journey
If you want to see Australia to the fullest in one scenic journey, the Indian Pacific is the way to do it. This rail route takes you 4,352 kilometres across four states in 65 hours, from Sydney’s eastern shores to Perth’s sun-soaked west coast.
What to expect on the Indian Pacific
Your adventure will begin in Sydney, where the train will leave the city and head to the Blue Mountains. The scenery quickly changes from skyscrapers to deep valleys, rugged cliffs, and eucalyptus forests.
As you continue west, the train stops in Broken Hill, an outback town known for its mining history and a lively arts scene. Then, it’s on to Nullarbor Plain, a seemingly endless stretch of flat, treeless land that feels like another world. Finally, after days of watching the landscape shift and change, you’ll arrive in Perth, where you can explore beautiful beaches, green parks, and a thriving café culture.
Scenic stops and attractions
Many travel packages offer the chance to hop off and explore iconic locations along the way. In the Blue Mountains, you can take a day tour to see the famous Three Sisters rock formation and scenic lookouts. Further along, you could stop in Kalgoorlie, a Western Australian gold-mining town, to find out more about the region’s history.
One of the most unique experiences on this journey is the off-train dining options. Some itineraries include outback dinners under a sky full of stars. Others include meals in historic buildings, offering a taste of Australia’s rich heritage.
Tips for travelers
- Choose the right service level: Gold Service offers comfortable cabins, onboard dining, and lounge access, while Platinum provides extra space and luxury touches.
- Take advantage of included meals: Your ticket usually covers dinner and drinks, so don’t miss the chance to try out local produce and Australian wines.
- Consider stopovers: If you have time, extend your stay in Adelaide for a wine tour or add a Great Ocean Road side trip before reboarding.
Great Southern: discover the Australian south-east by train
Running between Brisbane and Adelaide, this train journey takes you through coastal landscapes, rolling countryside, and charming regional towns. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a laid-back way to see Australia’s southeast.
What to expect on the Great Southern
Your journey starts in Brisbane, Queensland’s sunny capital, before heading south along the coast. You’ll pass through beachside towns, lush forests, and wide-open farmland, with plenty of time to relax and take in the scenery.
As the train continues west, the landscapes begin to change, moving from green countryside to drier, open plains. By the time you arrive in Adelaide, you’ll have seen a mix of Australia’s coastal and inland beauty. The city itself is a great place to end your journey, with its vibrant food scene, wineries, and cultural spots to explore.
Unique features and scenery
One of the highlights of the Great Southern is its off-train experiences. Instead of just passing through, you get the chance to step off and explore some of the regions along the way. These excursions might include visiting a historic town, taking a scenic walk, or trying local food and wine.
Onboard, the train offers a comfortable and social atmosphere, with spacious seating, dining areas, and lounge spaces where you can meet fellow travellers or relax as you take in the scenery. Meals are included in the journey, and they showcase fresh, local ingredients so you can taste the regions you’re passing through.
Tips for travelers
- Summer runs: The Great Southern typically operates from December to February, making it an ideal festive-season rail holiday.
- Excursions: Depending on your booking, you can pause to tour wineries and farmland, or even take a helicopter ride for panoramic views.
The Overland: a historic train line
If you’re looking for a simple, relaxed way to travel between Melbourne and Adelaide, The Overland is a great option. This train journey has been running for over 135 years, offering a comfortable and scenic way to cross between Victoria and South Australia.
What to expect on The Overland
The Overland takes you between Melbourne and Adelaide in about 10 hours, passing through a mix of green farmland, rolling hills, and open plains. As you leave Melbourne, you’ll see vineyards, forests, and small country towns, giving you a glimpse of regional Victoria. Further along, the landscape becomes drier and more rugged, showing the changing scenery as you approach South Australia.
Why take The Overland?
- Family-friendly: With comfortable seating and space to move, it’s a great option for travellers with kids.
- Affordable travel: The Overland is a budget-friendly option compared to flying, and you can bring more luggage.
- Tradition: Running for over 135 years, The Overland has been a classic travel choice for generations of Australians.
For newcomers in Australia, The Overland is a great introduction to train travel. It’s simple, comfortable, and a great way to see more of the country while getting where you need to go.
Planning your Australian rail journey
Some routes are short and scenic, while others take you deep into the outback over a period of several days. Before booking, think about how much time you have, what kind of experience you want, what your budget is and which parts of Australia you’re most excited to see.
Choosing the right journey for you
- Short or long: If you only have a few days, consider a shorter segment of a longer route. For a full cross-country adventure, journeys like The Ghan or the Indian Pacific offer a unique experience.
- Budget vs luxury: Premium trains like the Ghan, Indian Pacific, and Great Southern can be more costly but include meals, drinks, and excursions. Vintage and regional tours tend to be more budget-friendly.
- Destination focus: Prioritise what you want to see. For example, if you’re keen to visit the Australian Outback, then The Ghan is perfect. If you’re dreaming of beaches or city tours, then The Indian Pacific or Great Southern might be a better fit.
Travel tips and best times to visit
Before you set off, remember that the Australian weather can vary a lot. The outback can be extremely hot in summer (December to February), while winter nights (June to August) can be chilly. If you’re heading to Darwin, keep in mind that the wet season (November to April) can affect access to national parks.
Another tip is to book early. Trains fill up fast, especially during peak travel seasons, so book several months in advance if possible.
Once you’ve booked, think about packing smart. Consider a small overnight bag for essentials like toiletries, a camera, and a phone charger, as larger luggage is often stored separately. Extra layers of clothing are also a good idea in case of changing temperatures.
Whichever train journey you choose, we wish you safe travels and an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
What is the most scenic train ride in Australia?
This will depend on what kind of scenery you enjoy the most. The Indian Pacific takes you through the dramatic Blue Mountains and across the endless horizon of the Nullarbor Plain. The Ghan gives you an outback experience like no other. If you prefer rainforests and waterfalls, shorter scenic routes like the Kuranda Scenic Railway in Queensland offer spectacular tropical views.
What is the most popular train journey in Australia?
Two of the most famous rail adventures are The Ghan (running between Adelaide and Darwin) and The Indian Pacific (between Sydney and Perth). Both are considered legendary journeys because they travel thousands of kilometres, passing through different landscapes and climate zones. They also offer luxury cabins, gourmet meals, and guided excursions, making the experience even more special.
What is the best sleeper train in Australia?
If you’re looking for a comfortable overnight train experience, both The Ghan and the Indian Pacific offer Gold Service and Platinum cabins with cosy bedding, private bathrooms, and high-quality dining. The Great Southern (running between Adelaide and Brisbane) also has sleeper cabins available during its summer season, making it a great option for warm-weather travel.
Are off-train tours included in the ticket price?
Many premium journeys offer guided excursions at key stops. Check your itinerary to see what’s included and what’s optional.
What about dietary needs?
Most train operators can accommodate special diets (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) if you let them know in advance.
What’s the onboard experience like?
Trains usually have lounges and observation areas where you can socialise, admire the scenery, or just relax with a book.