Australia by rail: 4 incredible train journeys Down Under

Travelling vast Australia by train allows you to cover a lot of ground in a short time, and, of course, part of the fun is all you’ll see on the journey...

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Travelling vast Australia by train allows you to cover a lot of ground in a short time, and, of course, part of the fun is all you’ll see on the journey. To inspire you, here are four train journeys to take Down Under for a trip to remember.

1. The Ghan: Adelaide to Darwin or vice versa

The Ghan takes passengers from Adelaide in South Australia all the way to the tropics of Darwin in the Northern Territory and is famed as one of the world’s greatest rail journeys. Travelling in style on this all-inclusive train journey, you will experience the vast landscapes of the Australian outback with no distractions or complications.

Not only does The Ghan offer superb comfort on this three-day voyage, but it’s also prided as one of the globe’s great solo travel adventures thanks to the Gold Service Single cabins.

Travel through the rust-red heart of Australia with the option to share delicious meals and Off Train Experiences with your fellow travellers. During First Class Holidays' Ghan train package, you’ll also have the opportunity to take a break in Alice Springs to explore some of Australia’s most iconic sights and landscapes including Kings Canyon and Alice Springs.

Guests in Platinum or Gold Service can enjoy complimentary Off Train Experiences in Alice Springs and Katherine. In Alice Springs, guests have the option of camel rides, outback exploring, and city sightseeing, while in Katherine you can visit the striking Nitmiluk Gorge and gaze out to spectacular gorges carved from ancient sandstone that stretch far into the distance.

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2. The Indian Pacific: Perth to Sydney or vice versa

The epic Indian Pacific train journey spans the continent's width, from the famous coastal city of Sydney on the east coast to Perth in Western Australia, the country’s sunniest capital city. The Indian Pacific is Australia’s longest train journey, covering more than 2,600 miles, including the longest unswerving length of railway in the world.

On First Class Holidays' Indian Pacific train package, enjoy Gold and Platinum Service Cabins with en-suite shower rooms, comfortable beds, and delicious food and wine served in the dining car.

You’ll travel through the verdant Avon Valley and the mysterious goldfields surrounding Kalgoorlie in Western Australia before travelling through the sprawling, ancient desert of the Nullarbor Plains and the postcard-perfect Blue Mountains just outside Sydney.

Platinum or Gold service guests can embark on complimentary Off Train Experiences during the journey. Discover the old mining capital of Kalgoorlie. Sample scrumptious food and world-class wines in the buzzy city of Adelaide, South Australia’s cosmopolitan coastal capital.

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3. Great Southern: Adelaide to Brisbane or vice versa

 

Weaving through charming coastal towns, the Great Southern railway journey travels from Adelaide in South Australia to sunny Brisbane in Queensland. Leave the buzz of Adelaide behind and enjoy world-class service on First Class Holiday's three-day, two-night Great Southern train package. Tuck into all-inclusive meals and fine wines as you pass remarkable scenery.

Soak up the rugged landscapes of the dramatic Grampians region, home to ancient sandstone mountains and plenty of native wildlife – you’re sure to spot more kangaroos and wallabies than you can count. Take a hike and explore the wild area on foot, or sip some of the region’s fine wines while admiring beautiful views.

Discover the art, history, and food of Canberra, Australia’s capital. Some highlights of this compact city include the National War Museum, Parliament House, and the National Gallery of Australia.

Sink your toes into the golden sands of Coffs Harbour’s fabulous beaches and make the most of the harbourside markets and historic jetty. Next, enjoy coastal views of New South Wales as you chug along before reaching the sun-soaked city of Brisbane – welcome to Queensland.

 

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4. The Overland: Adelaide to Melbourne or vice versa

The Overland travels between Melbourne to Adelaide and has a history stretching back to 1887. Originally known as the Intercolonial Express, this line connects the states of South Australia and Victoria. Spanning 515 miles, this daytime journey takes around 10-11 hours to reach one state capital to another. Peek out the window as you glide along, taking in the bucolic Adelaide Hills and the charming Victorian towns.

You’ll also cross Australia’s longest river – the scenic Murray River. Extend your trip and explore more that Australia has to offer by stopping off at some of the quaint country towns en route.

About the experts

First Class Holidays is proud to offer 27 years of exceptional service with a personal, friendly approach that’s led the company to becoming an industry leader in delivering memorable, tailor-made holidays. First Class Holidays has won many awards and all of its trips are ABTA and ATOL protected. 

Stick to one of First Class Holiday's much-loved train travel packages, or if you’d like to customise a trip to suit your preferences, First Class Holidays can tailor any Journey Beyond product to help you design your Australia train adventure of a lifetime.

Discover the example packages here, and get in touch with the friendly team by email: enquiries@fcholidays.com or phone: 0161 888 5608. Quote WANDER200 for a complimentary case of Australian wine when you book – the perfect way to kick-start your Aussie adventure.

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