Tips when visiting Puffing Billy in Melbourne, Australia

Based on my visit in August 2024

Last updated on 11 Oct, 2024 Blog

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Puffing Billy: A Must-Visit Attraction in Melbourne

Puffing Billy, one of Melbourne’s most iconic and historic steam trains, offers a charming journey through the lush forests and picturesque landscapes of the Dandenong Ranges. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike, this century-old railway transports passengers back in time as it chugs along scenic routes with its distinctive puffing steam. Here’s why you should make it a must-visit on your Melbourne itinerary and some essential tips to ensure the best experience.

Why You Should Visit Puffing Billy

Puffing Billy is more than just a train ride — it’s a journey into history, where the thrill of riding in an open-sided carriage through verdant rainforests and over trestle bridges feels like stepping into another era. The sight of the vintage steam locomotive, the whistle echoing through the valleys, and the serene beauty of the surrounding forests make this an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re after a leisurely trip or a perfect photo opportunity, this attraction offers a rare chance to enjoy nature from a unique perspective.

Top Tips for an Unforgettable Puffing Billy Experience

Buy Tickets Early

Puffing Billy is a popular attraction, and tickets can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

Bonus Tip 1: If tickets are sold out on the official Puffing Billy ticketing platform, consider checking out KKday, Klook or Pelago for day tours.

I booked a day tour which picked me up from downtown Melbourne. First stop: the Healesville Sanctuary, where I got up close with Australia’s unique wildlife. Then, it was a one-way ride on the Puffing Billy, before heading back to downtown Melbourne.

I managed to experience two iconic attractions in a single day! In my opinion, the one-way one hour ride on the Puffing Billy was sufficient.

Bonus Tip 2: If you are travelling by Singapore Airlines, you might be eligible for additional discounts on Pelago using your booking reference number. Check out the promotion details on Pelago.

Board Early

Arrive at the station at least 20 minutes before departure to secure the best seats. Early boarding allows you to choose a prime spot, especially if you want to take in the best views or get comfortable before the train sets off.

Best Views on the Right

If you are joining a day tour, the Puffing Billy ride might be a one-way journey from Lakeside Station to Belgrave Station. I would suggest the platform side of the train for stunning views of the forest and the surrounding areas.

If you are on a two-way journey, I would recommend sitting on different sides of the train on each leg to take in the sights from both sides.

Sit Further Back

If you’re keen on capturing pictures of the front of the train curving around bends, choose a seat in one of the back carriages. This perspective provides fantastic photo opportunities of the locomotive winding through the greenery.

Wear Sunglasses

The coal-fired steam engine produces small particles of unburnt coal, which may blow into the open carriages. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses during the ride.

Protect your phones

If you are not careful, you might drop your phone out of the open-air design carriages when taking selfies and videos. Using a lanyard or wrist strap attached to your phone is a simple precaution to avoid losing your device.

Conclusion

With these tips in mind, your visit to Puffing Billy will not only be enjoyable but also safe and full of unforgettable memories. Whether you’re there for the nostalgia, the photo ops, or the adventure of riding through nature, this attraction is truly one of Melbourne’s gems.

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