Train from Melbourne to Perth

The iconic Indian Pacific Railway from Sydney to Perth does not travel via Melbourne. As such to complete the journey entirely by train you need to travel first to Adelaide where you need to break the journey for a minimum of 24 hours (if taking the Saturday service from Melbourne to Adelaide and the Sunday service from Adelaide to Perth. Consider spending longer than 1 night in Adelaide. There are 2 direct train services weekly from Adelaide to Perth departing at 1840 on Sunday and Thursday and arriving in Perth 2 days later at 0910. Journey time is around 40 hours with a 3.5 hour stop to explore Kalgoorlie and fares start from $231 for students and holders of YHA or backpacker cards. For a bed starting price is $689.