The most amazing train journeys in Australia

Elizabeth Whitehead Elizabeth Whitehead
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These trains are so much more than a way to get from A to B.

Lonely Planet has launched Amazing Train Journeys, a book spotlighting 60 incredible scenic railways around the world. Impressively, Australia has scored four mentions that span classic tourist rail journeys to regular commuter trains.

In an era of travel where we are more eco-conscious than ever, trains are the perfect way to slow down and see more. So, whether you’re trying to leave a lighter footprint, or simply appreciate the romance of the railway, here are four of Australia’s most amazing train journeys, as listed in Lonely Planet’s Amazing Train Journeys.

The Ghan

As the old adage goes, “It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey". And although it may be a cliché, it’s never felt truer than onboard one of Australia’s most luxurious trains. The Ghan is an Australian icon, cleaving the country’s Red Centre as it travels between Adelaide and Darwin.

The Ghan train in Australia
The Ghan is a locomotive with some serious history. (Image: Matt Munro/Lonely Planet)

Over three to four days (depending on the direction of travel) and nearly 3000 km, passengers will experience a cross-section of outback wilderness in complete comfort, from the onboard fine dining options to the Art Deco-inspired bar car that recalls the romance of rail travel. The Ghan is a locomotive with some serious history. Named for the Afghan Cameleers transporting freight around the country, the Ghan was constructed between 1878 and 1929. 2024 marks 95 years of The Ghan adventuring through the outback.

the bold-red landscape aboard the legendary Ghan
Embark on an exhilarating adventure aboard the legendary Ghan.

The South Coast Line

To Sydneysiders, this regular commuter train line may not sound special. But according to Lonely Planet, the views from the South Coast Line line that connects Sydney, Wollongong and Bomaderry on the NSW South Coast, are some of the country’s prettiest.

South Coast Line
The South Coast Line is one of Australia’s prettiest commuter rail lines., (Image: State of NSW – Transport for NSW)

The train skirts the Royal National Park before dazzling views of the Pacific Ocean open up on the onward journey towards Thirroul. There are plenty of places worth stopping, whether at the pretty townships of Berry, or the beaches of Gerringong and Kiama to watch the whales migrate in autumn.

Aerial view of South Coast Line train in NSW
There are plenty of gems along this train route. (Image: State of NSW –  Transport for NSW)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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The West Coast Wilderness Railway

The West Coast Wilderness Railway in Tasmania is not just a scenic route, but a feat of human engineering. When it was built in the 1890s to transport copper to Strahan’s port from Queenstown, the task seemed near impossible due to the density of the terrain.

Tas West Coast Wilderness Railway
Steam between Strahan and Queenstown on the West Coast Wilderness Railway. (Image: Tourism Tasmania & Nick Osborne)

Now, riding the West Coast Wilderness Way couldn’t be further from the toil and sweat of the train’s mining history. Onboard the vintage steamer, you’ll chug through the rainforest as staff hand out glasses of bubbly. On the train’s outdoor balcony, the air is fragrant with Huon Pine and cool in the shade of the rainforest canopy. This is one for nature lovers, as well as the railway buffs, too.

West Coast Wilderness Railway
The luxurious West Coast Wilderness train passes through the temperate forests of Huon Pine. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The Kuranda Scenic Railway

Starting from Cairns, the 37-kilometre railroad to Kuranda was hand-hewn in the late 1880s by 1500 labourers using just picks and shovels. The only thing more impressive is the captivating vistas taken in on the train journey, from tropical rainforests to the tumbling waterfalls of Barron Gorge.

Kuranda scenic railway
The Kuranda Scenic Railway is a must-see in Tropical North Queensland. (Image: Queensland Rail Travel)

Begin your journey with breakfast in an authentic antique train carriage at Freshwater Train Station, where you can enjoy views of the surrounding mountainscapes before you embark on an unforgettable jaunt through the tropics on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Currently, Kuranda Scenic Railway is running weekend services only but will reinstate a full timetable from 2 March.

Kuranda scenic railway
The Kuranda Scenic Railway takes in tropical rainforest and waterfalls. (Image: Queensland Rail Travel)

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Elizabeth Whitehead
Elizabeth Whitehead is a writer obsessed with all things culture; doesn't matter if it's pop culture or cultures of the world. She graduated with a degree in History from the University of Sydney (after dropping out from Maths). Her bylines span AFAR, Lonely Planet, ELLE, Harper's BAZAAR and Refinery 29. Her work for Australian Traveller was shortlisted for single article of the year at the Mumbrella Publishing Awards 2024. She is very lucky in thrifting, very unlucky in UNO.
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8 experiences to restart and inspire your senses for 2026

    Katie Dundas Katie Dundas
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    Be invigorated by the sights, sounds and landscapes of the Northern Territory.

    If your 2026 travel goals focus on visiting inspiring and meaningful destinations, look no further than the Northern Territory. Rich in Indigenous culture, national parks and unique local cuisine, a journey deep into the Red Centre and Top End will awaken all your senses and leave you with lifelong memories. But you don’t need to do it on your own, as AAT Kings’ Small Group tours offer expertly led itineraries. They’re designed to take the guesswork out of travel planning and help you access remote regions in comfort while connecting with fellow guests, allowing you to delve deeper into destinations with insights from knowledgeable Travel Directors and local Indigenous guides.

    As Small Group tours with AAT Kings have an average of just 16 guests, there’s ample opportunity to ask questions and make meaningful connections on every visit. Here are just a few of the experiences on offer, with adventures designed to invigorate every sense.

    1. Under a Desert Moon dinner

    Under a Desert Moon dinner in northern territory
    Watch the stars come out over five courses.

    Over five courses, dine under the stars during an unforgettable Outback dining experience. As day fades to night, lit only by the moon and the crackling fire, this outdoor dinner features locally sourced seasonal produce, matched with Australian wines.

    It’s an intimate experience, showcasing the quiet grandeur of the Outback after nightfall. As you dine, feel connected to the land and its unique flavours, introduced by your impeccable waitstaff.

    Part of the Northern Territory Dreaming tour, the Under a Desert Moon dinner is the ideal way to connect with your small group of fellow travellers after an invigorating day in the Red Centre.

    2. Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience

    Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience
    Learn stories of the Red Centre at Karrke. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ 75vibes)

    The best way to learn the stories of the Red Centre is by connecting with the land’s Traditional Owners. At the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience, visited on AAT Kings Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, you’ll meet with members of the local Wanmarra community in Kings Canyon.

    On this immersive AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you’ll walk on Country to learn firsthand about bush tucker, Indigenous medicine, wooden artefacts and the art of dot painting. Passionate guides will share stories that have been passed down for generations.

    3. Kungkas Can Cook

    Kungkas Can Cook set up at Simpson's Gap
    Taste local bush delicacies. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Mel Brautigam)

    The powerful senses of smell and taste are awakened on this exclusive experience led by Indigenous chef Rayleen Brown. Included in the Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, this is a unique opportunity to savour local bush delicacies and learn about Indigenous culture through the lens of food.

    Brown, a recipe author and guest judge for MasterChef Australia, works solely with native ingredients directly harvested by women from the Alice Springs community. It’s a 100 per cent Indigenous owned and run business.

    4. Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

    woman walking by Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)
    See striking Karlu Karlu. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

    Appearing out of nowhere, the huge granite boulders of Karlu Karlu seem to precariously balance on the barren Outback landscape. You’ll come across these geological formations as you cruise the Stuart Highway on the Northern Territory Explorer tour.

    Your AAT Kings Travel Director will share expert insight on the history and culture of Karlu Karlu, recognised as a sacred site of the Warumungu people. As you walk in awe amongst these stunning formations, formed many millennia ago, you’ll hear some of the stories behind why this place is so important to Indigenous storytelling and culture.

    5. Pudakul

    Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours
    Experience this family-owned Indigenous experience. (Images: Tourism & Events NT/ Helen Orr)

    Make authentic cultural connections when you visit Pudakul, a family-owned Indigenous experience on the Adelaide River Flood Plains. On your Small Group Northern Territory Explorer tour your senses will be inspired by the sounds of First Nations music, the taste of local bush tucker and the beauty of art.

    This AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience is designed to take you deeper into the destination, helping guests learn from the people of the Limilngan-Wulna Land.

    6. Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise

    Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise
    Spot the wildlife of the billabong. (Image: Tourism & Events NT)

    Observing the unique wildlife of the Northern Territory – from formidable crocs to hearing gentle melodies from the many endemic bird species – is always one of the most memorable parts of your Northern Territory Dreaming tour.

    Travel in the comfort of your premium coach, taking in the stunning landscapes, before arriving at Corroboree Billabong. This special place is part of the Mary River Wetlands and is home to the world’s largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles. Your comfortable boat is designed to maximise wildlife viewing, giving you a front row seat to this spectacular ecosystem.

    7. Aboriginal Bush Traders

    artist at Aboriginal Bush Traders in darwin
    Visit for the art, stay for a bite. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Shaana McNaught)

    A visit to Aboriginal Bush Traders is the ideal introduction to the vibrant city of Darwin. This non-profit gallery, cafe and retail space supports Indigenous employment and is the perfect place to find a curated selection of ethical Indigenous gifts, including artwork and organic skincare.

    Your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming tours include an exclusive native flavour tasting, offering cultural insight before travelling deeper into the Top End.

    8. Leliyn (Edith Falls)

    woman swimming in Leliyn (Edith Falls)
    Cool off at Leliyn (Edith Falls). (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

    There’s something about a mighty waterfall that invigorates the soul like nothing else, with the picturesque Leliyn (Edith Falls) the perfect place to refresh on a hot day.

    On your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming visit to Nitmiluk National Park, known for its epic sandstone gorges, you’ll pay a visit to the oasis that is Leliyn. It’s the ideal place for a swim, but it’s also home to ancient Indigenous rock art. And as your Travel Director will explain, it’s an impressive place of cultural significance, too.

    Make 2026 the year to discover the flavours, culture and beauty of the Northern Territory at aatkings.com.