This luxury Aussie rail journey just ranked among the world's best

What is Australia’s best luxury train journey?

It won’t come as a shock to anyone that The Ghan came out on top as Australia’s best rail journey, ranking fifth in the world overall. The Ghan, as we know it today, was launched by Australian experiential tourism company Journey Beyond and traverses the vast expanse of red-dirt country between Darwin in the Northern Territory and South Australia’s capital city of Adelaide.

The Ghan travelling through Marla in South Australia

The Ghan has ranked among the world’s best luxury train journeys.

But its lore extends well beyond that, going much deeper than its current identity as a once-in-a-lifetime holiday. The history of The Ghan goes back as far as the late 1800s, when the first cameleers arrived in Australia. The camel drivers, primarily from parts of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Türkiye and Egypt, were vital to the development of Australia’s outback.

Often referred to as ‘Afghans’ or ‘Ghans’ – hence the train’s name – the men transported goods across thousands of kilometres. They worked tirelessly, connecting remote towns with coastal cities and facilitating crucial infrastructure projects and major rail lines.

The Broken Hill Mosque Museum holds the history of the cameleers. (Image: Steve Madgwick)

While the workers were eventually replaced by automobiles and trains, they have since been honoured by companies like Journey Beyond for their significant contributions to Australia’s trade, agriculture, mining and transport industries. Learn more about the cameleers with a visit to the Broken Hill Mosque Museum.

What can I expect from a trip on The Ghan?

Australians have always known The Ghan is one of the country’s most memorable rail journeys. And while being recognised among the world’s best is a new feat for the train, take a closer look and it’s not hard to see why.

Over the years, The Ghan has undergone numerous upgrades to ensure the best experience for guests. From railway extensions and offboard inclusions to the recent introduction of brand-new cabin configurations, it’s no wonder it has made the list. If you’re keen to book, you can expect the journey of a lifetime.

Watch the world go by from your cosy Gold Service cabin.

Trips are flexible, with multiple options to choose from. If you only want one night onboard, book a trip travelling between either Darwin or Adelaide to Alice Springs. After a little more? Go from Adelaide to Darwin (or vice versa) over two nights and three days. Or go all out with The Ghan Expedition, a four-day, three-night journey exploring the wonders of Australia’s heartland.

Onboard, you’ll find a dining carriage offering delicious food (two-course breakfast, a two-course lunch and a three-course dinner) and premium wines, as well as a range of cabins to choose from depending on your price point. Opt for the Gold offering to enjoy a twin or single cabin and access to the Outback Explorer Lounge. Get a little more with the Gold Premium and Platinum packages, such as priority check-in, tour preferencing and a private en suite.

The new Aurora Australis suite on The Ghan

The opulent Aurora Australis suites will be available from 2026.

Those joining The Ghan in 2026 should also consider splurging on the all-new Aurora Australis suites. In an Australian first, the ultra-luxe rooms will include butler services, an in-suite bar, private chauffeur, access to the Platinum Club Lounge and much more.

Don’t forget about the offboard experiences either. Guests can visit some of Australia’s coolest destinations, from famous outback towns such as Katherine to award-winning wineries in McLaren Vale. For a little extra, why not add on a scenic cruise of Nitmiluk Gorge, or a private helicopter flight over Uluru? Take your pick.

Offboard experiences with The Ghan in Alice Springs, NT

Choose from a range of unforgettable offboard experiences.

What other luxury train journeys made the list?

Coming in as the world’s best luxury train is the Rocky Mountaineer out of Canada , with a final rating of 8.88/10. This was followed by California’s Napa Valley Wine Train and the GoldenPass Express in Switzerland. Fourth place went to South Africa’s Rovos Rail, with The Ghan rounding out the top five with an impressive overall rating of 8.54/10.

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

This luxury Aussie rail journey just ranked among the world’s best

This isn’t just a train trip – it’s an experience of a lifetime.