You Must Ride Australia’s Oldest Steam Train in Melbourne

Voted by National Geographic as a must-experience in life, this steam train is pure fairytale magic! 🚂 Hop aboard Melbourne’s very own Hogwarts Express—a journey into Australia’s most romantic bygone era. Save this ultimate time-travel guide! 📸 Photo Guide (Light-colored dresses photograph best!): 1️⃣ Belgrave Station: Vintage red-and-white sign + billowing steam from the locomotive. Bonus: Take a photo with the friendly train conductor! 🤳 2️⃣ Lakeside → Gembrook Section: Forests, wooden bridges, valleys—every frame looks like a painting. Dangle your legs out the window! 3️⃣ Menzies Creek Bend: The last three carriages offer the best view of the train curving through eucalyptus forests. 4️⃣ Menzies Creek Bridge: After the ride, head here for a stunning overhead shot of the train crossing the bridge! 🎫 Tickets: Book 1 month in advance! Choose the 3 PM ride for the softest golden light. Opt for a one-way ticket (Belgrave → Lakeside)—take the bus back to save time. Special evening steam rides run on Wednesdays & Saturdays! 🚌 Getting There: Take the train from Melbourne CBD to Belgrave Station (1.5 hrs, ~AU$5 with Myki). A 5-minute walk brings you to the steam train departure point. ❗ Pro Tips: ⚠️ Bring a windproof jacket—mountain weather changes fast! ⚠️ Avoid wearing loose hats or expensive accessories (they might fly off on sharp bends!). ⚠️ Secure your phone/camera with a strap! ⚠️ Best seats for views: Right side when departing Belgrave Left side when departing Lakeside #JustGoForIt #MelbourneTravel #PuffingBilly #MelbournePhotography #MustVisitMelbourne #AustraliaTravel #ExploreAustralia #AustraliaVisa #LifeInAustralia #BreatheInNature