7 Scenic Train Rides from Melbourne for a Weekend Escape

There’s something inherently romantic about train travel that transcends the mere act of getting from point A to point B. It’s about the journey—the rhythmic clatter of wheels on tracks, the ever-changing panorama unfolding outside your window, the unhurried pace and feeling of surrendering to a brand-new adventure. While Melbourne’s laneways and espresso bars are endlessly captivating, sometimes the soul craves a shift in scenery.

Thankfully, Victoria delivers, with train routes that weave through misty mountains, charming country towns, and coastal hideaways. Whether you’re craving crisp alpine air, historic gold rush towns, or seaside serenity, these seven train rides from Melbourne take you from the heart of the city to some of the state’s most spectacular destinations.

So, pack your overnight bag, grab a window seat, and let’s explore Victoria the slow, scenic way.

Melbourne to Bright (via Wangaratta) – Majestic Alpine Energy

While there’s no direct train to Bright, the journey via Wangaratta is one of the most scenic escapes from Melbourne. Hop on the V/Line train to Wangaratta, a charming regional town that marks the gateway to Victoria’s High Country. Along the way, watch the landscape shift from rolling pastures to towering eucalypt forests, with occasional glimpses of the King River.

Once in Wangaratta, swap the train for a coach (or hire a bike if you’re up for an adventure) and make your way to Bright, a postcard-perfect alpine town famed for its tree-lined avenues, craft breweries, and stunning seasonal colours. In autumn, the town is ablaze with red and gold foliage, while in summer, the Ovens River offers a cool retreat for swimmers and kayakers. Stay overnight and explore nearby wineries like Feathertop, or take a day trip to Mount Buffalo for breathtaking views over the Victorian Alps.

Best for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone who appreciates a good craft beer after a long journey.

Sitchu Tip: Get a dose of nature on the Bright Canyon Walk.

Melbourne to Ballarat – A Gold Rush Time Capsule

Ballarat isn’t just a historic town; it’s a full sensory experience that transports you straight back to the 1850s. The V/Line train from Southern Cross Station to Ballarat takes just over an hour, making it an easy weekend escape. As you roll past golden fields and old railway towns, you’ll feel like you’re following in the footsteps of fortune-seekers from the Gold Rush era.

Step off the train and into Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum where costumed actors, horse-drawn carriages, and candlelit saloons recreate the thrill of the gold rush. Wander through heritage streets, pan for real gold, and warm up with a mulled wine in winter. Beyond the gold history, Ballarat boasts one of Australia’s finest regional galleries, stunning botanical gardens, and an emerging food scene worth exploring. For cycling enthusiasts, be sure to bring your bike—the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail offers a picturesque journey through historic towns and scenic landscapes, with highlights like the impressive Nimmons Bridge, a must-visit for those seeking both adventure and a glimpse into the region’s past.

Best for: History buffs, families, and those who love a bit of old-world charm with their weekend getaway.

Sitchu Tip: Enjoy tacos and a lively atmosphere at the acclaimed Pancho.

Melbourne to Warrnambool – The Coastal Journey of Dreams

This might just be Victoria’s most underrated train trip. The V/Line service from Melbourne to Warrnambool takes around three and a half hours, but the scenery makes it feel half as long. Leaving the city behind, you’ll pass through the verdant farmland of Geelong and Colac before the landscape transforms into rugged coastline as you approach Warrnambool, one of the Great Ocean Road’s hidden gems.

Once you arrive, take a short trip to Logan’s Beach, where, between May and September, you can spot southern right whales nursing their calves just offshore. Shielded by Merri and Middle Islands, Stingray Bay is another coastal dream—where golden sandbars, tidal rockpools, and tranquil waters meet the wild pulse of the Southern Ocean. Explore Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, indulge in fresh seafood, or extend your adventure to nearby Port Fairy—a dreamy fishing town with heritage streets, boutique stays, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Best for: Ocean lovers, whale watchers, and anyone who wants a Great Ocean Road experience without the drive.

Sitchu Tip: Head for a dreamy regional feast at Lost Cat—the new, buzzed-about spot serving up seasonal fare in a laid-back yet effortlessly cool setting.

Melbourne to Bendigo – Gold, Art, and Culture

Bendigo isn’t just about gold—it’s about elegance, art, and a whole lot of history. The V/Line train from Melbourne to Bendigo takes just under two hours, winding through lush countryside before arriving at one of Victoria’s most beautiful regional cities.

Here, grandeur awaits. Stroll beneath ornate architecture, immerse yourself in the world-class exhibitions at the Bendigo Art Gallery, and hop on the vintage Talking Tram for a charming ride through the city’s historic streets. For a date night with serious flair, reserve a table at Ms Batterhams—where the Chef’s Share Menu and expertly crafted cocktails set the perfect mood.

Best for: Art lovers, history enthusiasts, and foodies looking for a refined weekend away.

Sitchu Tip: For a hands-on experience, visit Bendigo Pottery, Australia’s oldest working pottery since 1858. Here, you can participate in pottery workshops, try your hand at the wheel, and even decorate your own ceramic pieces, all while absorbing the rich history of this iconic establishment.

Melbourne to Castlemaine – A Creative Hideaway

Castlemaine is where history and hipness collide. The V/Line train from Melbourne to Castlemaine takes just 90 minutes, delivering you straight into a town bursting with creativity, historic charm, and a thriving food and arts scene.

Spend your day perusing The Mill, an old wool mill turned hub of artisan businesses, where you’ll find vintage treasures, handmade ceramics, and some of the best pastries in the state. Then, hit up a local pub, brewery or wine bar for live music and a regional drop. In autumn, the surrounding forests glow in fiery hues, making for breathtaking bushwalks.

Best for: Artists, vintage lovers, and anyone who enjoys a lazy weekend filled with good food and creativity.

Sitchu Tip: Love Shack Brewing Co. in Castlemaine is a craft beer haven, serving top-notch brews, delicious bites, and retro vibes daily from 11am. Settle in for good vibes and even better pours.

Melbourne to Echuca – Paddle Steamers and River Magic

A journey along the Murray River feels like stepping back into a simpler time. The V/Line train from Melbourne to Echuca (via Bendigo) takes just over three hours, but as you arrive in this historic river town, you’ll be rewarded with a weekend of relaxed charm and old-world adventure.

Echuca’s biggest claim to fame is its paddle steamers, which once transported goods along the Murray. Hop aboard a steamer for a cruise down the river, explore the heritage-listed wharf, and enjoy riverside dining at local institutions like The American Hotel. Don’t leave without sampling the town’s famous port (or a modern gin twist at a local distillery).

Best for: Romantics, history buffs, and those who love slow travel at its finest.

Sitchu Tip: Time your visit for February and soak up the magic of the Riverboats Music Festival, where legends like Bic Runga, Dan Sultan, Missy Higgins, and The Cruel Sea have graced the stage.

Melbourne to Gippsland Lakes (via Bairnsdale) – A Water Lover’s Dream

If you love the idea of waking up to misty lakes and gentle waters lapping at your doorstep, the V/Line train to Bairnsdale is your ticket to Victoria’s aquatic paradise. From Bairnsdale, it’s a short bus or ferry ride to the Gippsland Lakes, a vast system of inland waterways surrounded by charming fishing villages.

Stay in Metung or Paynesville, hire a kayak, and paddle past secluded coves. Spot dolphins, watch pelicans glide over the water, or simply sit back with a glass of wine and soak in the serenity. For a meal that’s pure coastal indulgence, Sardine Dining in Paynesville is worth its weight in local seafood gold. This is the kind of trip where time slows down and city worries simply melt away.

Best for: Water lovers, kayakers, and those looking for the ultimate relaxation escape.

Sitchu Tip: Soak in the bliss at Metung Hot Springs—because no trip to Gippsland is complete without it.

There you have it—seven stunning train rides from Melbourne that take you to some of Victoria’s most breathtaking destinations, no car required. Whether you’re after adventure, history, or a coastal retreat, these scenic escapes promise a journey as memorable as the destination. So, grab a ticket, sit back, and let the tracks lead you somewhere unforgettable. For more incredible travel experiences, check out our guide to Castlemaine, as well as these romantic stays around Victoria. Bon voyage!