The World’s 4 Best Train Experiences

1.Puffing Billy Railway: Heritage Steam Train Journey

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,195 reviews · 2 - 4 hours · from $29Our pick

Ride Puffing Billy, a preserved steam railway built in 1900, through the Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne. Choose a journey from Belgrave or Lakeside, sit on the carriage sill between Belgrave and Lakeside, and allow 2 to 4 hours. The Lakeside Visitor Centre adds cafés, toilets, dining, retail, and displays beside Emerald Lake Park.

“I loved the views and the whole trip! I really recommend this journey, I'd do that again”

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2.Ancient Ostia Antica Semi-Private Day Trip from Rome by Train with Guide

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 579 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $59

Meet your English-speaking guide near Piramide, ride the train to Ostia Antica, and spend about 2.5 hours walking through Rome’s old port city. With a maximum of 12 people, the tour covers the Decumanus Maximus, Baths of Neptune, amphitheater, shops, homes, and public buildings. Alberto, Barbara, Laura, Rob, and Cat have all led highly praised departures.

“Laura was an amazing guide. Ostia Antica beautiful spot to visit. Rich in history and intact artifacts. Quiet, peaceful seaside city and refreshing diversion from Rome.”

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3.Dublin to Cork, Blarney Castle & Cóbh Heritage Centre by train

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 510 reviews · 12 hours (approx.) · from $195

Take an early train from Dublin to Cork, then continue by coach to Blarney Castle and Cobh. You’ll see castle gardens, kiss the Blarney Stone, shop in Blarney village, and visit the Queenstown Story Heritage Centre. Guides such as Norman, Paul, John and Peter have earned praise for clear explanations and careful timekeeping.

“Would highly recommend to anyone going to Ireland! You get to experience riding on a train! Traveling through magical little villages and seeing the Blarney Stone Castle! All without having to worry about the travel plans! Everything was very well organized!”

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4.Barbados: St Nicholas Abbey Distillery, CTH Heritage Railway

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 33 reviews · 4 hours · from $128

Spend four hours at St Nicholas Abbey in Saint Andrew with hotel pickup, a guided house and distillery visit, a small rum tasting, and a Heritage Railway ride to Cherry Tree Hill. English-speaking guides, including the highly praised Shaun on the train, bring the plantation story to life. Expect bumpy island roads and a short tasting.

“It was a well balanced tour of the distillery, great house and the grounds (via train). We were fortunate to also be there during the cane harvest which was a added plus. Our driver was engaging, noting points of interest along our journey to and from the venue.”

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