Melbourne Gold Rush History by Rail
Take the train to Ballarat and Bendigo to see gold rush towns, gold mines and the history of Chinese miners.
Melbourne grew up during the gold rush of the 19th century, and this itinerary follows that history. In the city, visit the State Library Victoria, the Old Melbourne Gaol and the Royal Exhibition Building. For two days, take regional trains out of the city. At Ballarat, Sovereign Hill recreates a gold rush town. In Bendigo, you can go down a gold mine, ride a vintage tram and visit the Golden Dragon Museum, which tells the history of Chinese miners. The whole trip is done without driving, making it a good choice for history buffs and repeat visitors.
Inland winters are cold and damp, and the gold mines stay cool year-round, so bring a jacket.
Day by day
Day 1 · Library, Old Gaol and Chinatown
Melbourne（State Library Victoria、Old Melbourne Gaol、Chinatown, Melbourne）
SkyBus to Southern Cross Station takes about 30 minutes. In the afternoon, walk around the northern part of the city centre.
Stay: CBD
Day 2 · Ballarat and Sovereign Hill
Take V/Line from Southern Cross Station to Ballarat, about 85 minutes. Transfer to a bus to Sovereign Hill, then return to the city the same way in the evening.
Buy tickets in advance and allow at least 4 hours.
Stay: CBD
Day 3 · Bendigo Gold Mine and Golden Dragon Museum
Bendigo（Central Deborah Gold Mine、Bendigo Talking Tram、Golden Dragon Museum & Yi Yuan Gardens、Bendigo Joss House Temple）
Take V/Line from Southern Cross Station to Bendigo, about 110 minutes. Walk around the city and take a sightseeing tram, then return in the evening.
Underground mine tours require a reservation. Your myki card works on regional trains.
Stay: CBD
Day 4 · Royal Exhibition Building and Departure
Melbourne（Royal Exhibition Building、Melbourne Museum、Fitzroy Gardens & Cooks' Cottage）
Take the tram to Carlton Gardens. After visiting the Royal Exhibition Building and the museum, walk to the Fitzroy Gardens, then head to the airport in the afternoon.