train trips from us to canada

Top Train Trips in the US and Canada

See North America by Rail

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Thinking about taking a train trip this year? Riding the rails is not only a comfortable way for families to travel, but it lets you appreciate landscapes very differently than from the inside of a car.

According to bookings by Vacations By Rail , the largest provider of global rail vacations, these are the most popular train destinations in the United States and Canada .

Grand Canyon

Whether you begin in Chicago, Los Angeles or another place, the most popular North American train destination is the Grand Canyon , from the vast, panoramic views of the South Rim to the less-traveled, ruggedly tranquil North Rim.

• Explore Grand Canyon Itineraries

Canadian Rockies

Across our northern border, the most popular train destination is the majestic Canadian Rockies. Itineraries exploring this region range from six to 16 days. Don't miss the famed  Rocky Mountaineer  scenic touring train to Banff .

• Explore Canadian Rockies Itineraries

New Orleans

Arguably one of the most unique and iconic destinations in the United States, New Orleans is at the top of many rail travelers' wish lists. The list of possible departure cities includes Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, and Washington DC .

USA Coast to Coast

In as few as six days, you can cross the US with Amtrak. Longer itineraries offer more stops, taking legendary rail routes to visit some of the country’s most popular destinations, including major cities and national parks.

• Explore Coast-to-Coast US Itineraries

Trans Canada

Equally epic is the trans Canada train journey between Toronto and Vancouver. VIA Rail itineraries range from seven to 15 days, through landscapes that include tranquil lakes, dense forests, expanses of grasslands, and the majestic Canadian Rockies.

• Explore Trans Canada Itineraries

A jewel in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is also another destination on many rail travelers' wish lists. The list of possible departure cities includes Chicago, Los Angeles, and many other points in the US and Canada.​

Eastern Canada

VIA Rail offers itineraries that let you explore popular destinations within Ontario, Quebec, and the coastal provinces of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and New Brunswick.

• Explore Eastern Canada Itineraries

Some of the most popular itineraries combine a train trip with a river cruise or ocean cruise to Hawaii, Alaska, Mexico or the Caribbean.

Perhaps not the most kid-friendly of destinations, Reno is among the top choices for rail travelers.

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Canada Train Trips

Canada train trips are a truly iconic experience, tour through the majestic Canadian Rockies of Western Canada or across the charming and colorful eastern and Atlantic provinces.

Combining two incredible trains – the renowned rocky mountaineer in the west and via rail canada, which services routes across the country – our canadian train tours can cater to a variety of budgets and interests., so whether you imagine yourself rolling around lakes, curving along the ocean’s edge or riding through the snow-capped peaks of the rocky mountains, know that our canada train vacations can get you there..

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Canada Rail Vacations

Be guided by local experts, we live and breathe Canada.

Best Canadian Train Tours and Rail Vacations

With over 24 years of local insight, our team is here to craft your dream Canadian Train Tours! Enjoy cozy accommodation, glass-domed viewing cars and gourmet meals created by an actual chef in the onboard kitchen while carving through mountainous terrain, rushing rivers and the very best of Canada’s landscapes. Whether aboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper or VIA Rail to Toronto with overnight accommodations rolling along at a leisurely pace, allow yourself to sink into the rhythm of relaxation and experience rail travel at its best, as our experts will ensure every detail is taken care of for your unforgettable journey.

Discover the Majestic Glacial Waters of Maligne Lake

Cruise the crystal-clear waters of Maligne Lake and immerse yourself in awe-inspiring natural beauty, surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness.

Your Opportunity to Step on Millennium Old Glaciers

Prepare for an exhilarating journey on the Athabasca Glacier aboard the Ice Explorer. Walk on the glacier, feel the ice, and even drink some of its pure, melted water.

Take To The Skies for an Epic Rocky Mountain Adventure

To get off your feet and see it all from above, we highly recommend booking a Heli tour. See gorgeous scenery like ancient glaciers, deep crevasses, and cascading waterfalls.

Soar to Scenic Splendor with the Banff Gondola

Maximize views of Banff National Park with minimal exertion on a round-trip gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain. There is plenty to do at the top!

Feel The Mist on Your Face and Witness Nature's Power

Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara Falls. Feel the mist on your face and embrace the mesmerizing cascades of the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

Get Lost in The Charming Landscape of Nova Scotia

Explore the charm of Peggy's Cove and Mahone Bay, where picturesque lighthouses, quaint fishing villages, and fascinating seafaring heritage await!

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All Time Favourites

Calgary Stampede and the Canadian Rockies Train Tour

Canadian Trails Rail Across Canada | Vancouver to Toronto

Jewels of the Canadian Rockies by Rail | Rocky Mountaineer

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Montreal & Quebec City by Rail | Splendors of Eastern Canada

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Embrace the beauty of a Canadian adventure with Canada's leading rail specialist and save up to $3,000 per couple on your Canadian Rail Vacations (Limited Time Offer).

What Our Fellow Travelers Have to Say

From start to finish jennifer was very polite and easy-going as well as professional. she offered suggestions when needed and and was on top of all itinerary adjustments and refunds..

I had the pleasure of working with Jennifer Balicha on an itinerary for Seattle, Vancouver and Victoria, Canada. From start to finish Jennifer was very polite and easy-going as well as professional. Read more

Pennsylvania, United States

They not only tailored my itinerary to include activities I liked, but also made my car and hotel reservations, making it no-fuss for me.

They not only tailored my itinerary to include activities I liked, but also made my car and hotel reservations, making it no-fuss for me. Because it was a loose itinerary, it left plenty of room to explore on my own, finding my own unique experiences and sleeping in when I wanted!. Read more

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Excellent Trip

Excellent trip. Well planned out. Read more

Paul Williams

Destinations, itinerary and accommodation was all well thought out and we had a very memorable time. I'd happily use Canada by Design again.

We just returned from a trip around the Rockies. Destinations, itinerary and accommodation was all well thought out and we had a very memorable time. Read more

Christopher

Zurich, Switzerland

One of our best vacations. Perfectly planned and all went off without a hitch.

Canada by Design planned our trip to the Canadian Rockies including travel on the Rocky Mountaineer and visit to Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff, and Calgary. One of our best vacations. Read more

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Rochester , United States

Our trip through western Canada planned by Canada by Design was fabulous.

Our trip through western Canada planned by Canada by Design was fabulous. Karen made all of our trip arrangements and handled our unique requests seamlessly. Read more

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We wanted to thank Jasmine Wong and Discover Holidays Inc. for our great fly and self-drive vacation traveling to Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Edmonton & Drumhiller AB from July 24th to August 1st 2018. Read more

Ontario, Canada

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Little Rock, AR, United States

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We did the "Rail & Drive Across Canada" with you & it was wonderful. All accommodations were top notch, tours were above our expectations & the train ride was neat. Read more

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Eastern Canada Train Tours

An ideal way to explore the Eastern provinces is by train. Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic provinces are full of history and culture. Discover the buzzing food and art scene of Montreal; the world-class museums of Toronto; the cobbled streets of Quebec City; and the quaint coastal villages of Nova Scotia. These Eastern Canada train tours will give you plenty of photos to share and stories to tell.

Table of contents

Best canadian east coast train trips, canada’s east coast train experiences, facts about the canadian east coast, places to visit in canada’s east coast, 5 reasons to take an east coast train vacation, frequently asked questions.

Don’t miss the highlights and hidden gems of this region. Our team of travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations can help you plan your perfect trip to Eastern Canada. We customize your itinerary to suite your interests, tastes and budget.   

Speak to a Canadian Train Vacation Advisor to discuss all your options.

Keep reading or chat with one of our local travel experts. We’re passionate about Canada and can help you at any stage of your vacation planning.

Canada Coast to Coast by Train

The Coast to Coast is the ultimate Canadian trip by rail and includes East Coast train rides. You’ll see the country’s top highlights, including Peggy’s Cove, Niagara Falls and Lake Louise. This trip includes a trip on VIA Rail, in a sleeper cabin, and on the Rocky Mountaineer.   

The route goes between Vancouver and Halifax. It can be done in either reverse direction.  

Miles covered on train : 3,240  

Days on train : 5  

Nights on train : 4

Canada Eastern Rail Classic

This East Coast train vacation takes you from Montreal to Halifax (or in reverse). It includes a night on VIA Rail’s Ocean train in a sleeper cabin. You’ll have time to explore both Montreal and Quebec City, as well as Halifax. Hotel options include the historic Chateau Le Frontenac in Quebec City. While in Halifax, you can take a day trip to Peggy’s Cove to see Canada’s most-photographed lighthouse.   

Miles covered on train : 835   

Days on train : 1  

Nights on train : 1  

Montreal and Quebec City by Rail

Spend time in two of Canada's most sophisticated cities. This five-day itinerary takes you between Montreal and Quebec City. Optional excursions include walking and food tours, dining at award-winning restaurants, and visiting world-class museums.   

Miles covered on train : 144 miles  

Days on train : 0.5 days  

Nights on train : 0 nights  

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Get inspired with sample itineraries, train information, route maps, and travel advice from our local experts.

Whether you are looking for a quick week-long getaway to see the region's highlights, or a longer excursion into Canada's history and culture, we have the ideal Eastern Canada train trip itinerary for you.  

VIA Rail is Canada’s main passenger train and connects Vancouver to Halifax with four major train routes. Stops you can explore include Vancouver, Jasper, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec and Halifax. The trains run year-round, but there are special presentations and activities during the summer, including live music, wine tastings and history talks. Depending on the route, they offer overnight sleeper train experiences.  

Sleeper Train

There are two train routes in Canada which allow you to sleep on the train, both through VIA Rail. Travel between Vancouver and Toronto on The Canadian with stops in Jasper or Winnipeg. Or travel the East Coast of Canada on the Ocean train. Both sleeper train routes are available all year long. Some sleeper trains in Canada are equipped with special panoramic viewing cars to provide you with the best view of the scenery day or night. 

The Canadian Train

Hopping a ride on VIA Rail’s Canadian Train is the ultimate way to discover how big and beautiful Canada is. The Canadian was the flagship of the Canadian Pacific Rail line when it first began service in 1955. Now, connecting Toronto to Vancouver, the Canadian carries you from the forests of Ontario, through the sweeping fields of the Prairies and past the dramatic snow-capped Rocky Mountains. 

The Ocean Train

Onboard VIA Rail’s Ocean Train you'll travel from the French speaking province of Quebec, through the blissful backdrop of lighthouses and seascapes in the Canadian maritime provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia before reaching your final destination of Halifax. As you relax onboard, you'll see tiny communities along your route, representing French Canadian, Acadian, Celtic and English heritage.

• The first provinces to form Canada are in the East: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Quebec, and Ontario.   
• The East Coast is one of the best places in the world to see whales. In the summer months and early fall, Minke, Humpback, Finback and North Atlantic Right Whales can be spotted in the waters.   
• The major cities of Eastern Canada include Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec City. Ottawa is the country’s capital.
• The Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick is home to the highest tides in the world. You can also see Hopewell Rocks, unique rock formations known as Flowerpots.     
• The province of Ontario is home to more than 250,000 lakes. This includes some of the Great Lakes, which are on or near the Canada/U.S. border. Toronto is on one of the Great Lakes, Lake Ontario, and it is the perfect spot for sailing and sight-seeing cruises.   
• Quebec is home to some of the oldest buildings in Canada that are still standing. They date from the early 1600s.    

#1 Travel tip: Find the best seafood

Many places on Canada’s East Coast are famous for their seafood. Take the sleeper train to Halifax, Nova Scotia, and try world-class fish and chips, lobster, and scallops.

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

There are so many great Canadian experiences you can pack into one trip when you explore Eastern Canada. From the humbling power of Niagara Falls, to the endless hiking trails and scenic viewpoints along the St. Lawrence River, you'll want to squeeze plenty of side trips into your train vacation. 

• Niagara Falls : Take a boat tour that will bring you so close to the enormous, thundering falls that you'll feel the cool, misty spray on your face! 
• CN Tower : Admire the twinkling lights of the city from the viewing platform in this iconic building in the Toronto skyline or have dinner with a view at the revolving restaurant. 
• St. Lawrence River : see the gorgeous historic architecture of Quebec City and Montreal and Canada’s gorgeous trees while on a boat cruise on this impressive waterway.  

#2 Travel tip: Spend time in the Niagara region

If you’re travelling through Ontario, in addition to seeing Niagara Falls, you could explore the wineries nearby and visit the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

From pristine national parks and lively cities to historic French-Canadian chateaus, there's so much to discover in the heart of Canada.  

• Friendly hospitality : Residents are known for their laid back, welcoming friendliness, so you'll be greeted with kind smiles and friendship.  
• Diverse landscapes : From the limestone caves in Bruce Peninsula and sparkling lakes of Ontario's cottage country to the deep forests of Quebec, you'll enjoy unspoiled wilderness.  
• Some of Canada's finest cities : Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec City are packed with world-class museums, historic architecture, and trendy restaurants.
• Relax in comfort : Stretch out in your spacious berth or sit back in the dining car and enjoying a gourmet meal for an enjoyable train trip.
• Canadian history : Stroll down the cobblestone streets of Quebec City, admire elegant Victorian architecture, and explore the Rideau Canal National Historic Site in Ottawa.  

What Our Customers Say

Many thanks to you both for making this lovely trip a reality.

Other that the unsatisfactory hotel in Montreal, the tour was wonderful! The dinner at the Bonaparte Restaurant helped us forget the uncomfortable room. Special highlights of the t...   read more

Pay and John

Fresh Tracks Canada was outstanding

The vacation was great! Fresh Tracks Canada was outstanding, from hotels to limousine service to guided tours, and we had plenty of time to enjoy the cities on our own. It was trul...   read more

Donna and Richard

The tours were wonderful

We loved the trip! The train ride was lovely with better food and smoother ride than Amtrak. The Canadian people were charming and helpful and the food was exquisite. We loved Plac...   read more

Mark and Kathy

We could not have been more satisfied with our trip!

Wonderful planning and attention to detail. We didn't have to worry about a thing. Everything was organized down to the last detail. Everyone who was to meet us was there ahead of...   read more

Roberta and Ashley

Why book with Canadian Train Vacations?

We take care of all the details

You want to relax and enjoy your trip, not get overwhelmed by the planning. Let us make all of the bookings for you, including rail tickets, hotels, excursions and activities, meals and transfers.

Independent travel with expert support

Enjoy local expertise and guidance with a personalized itinerary. Your preferences and needs are our priority. We take care of you from the moment you land until the moment you leave.

Get help when you need it

You’ll receive the inside scoop before you even leave home. And you can relax during your vacation because we’re only a phone call away if you have any questions while you’re in Canada.

Where is East Coast Canada? 

Canada’s East Coast includes Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and PEI. These provinces are along the Atlantic coast of the country.

When is the best time to visit East Coast of Canada?

The Fall months are the best time to visit Eastern Canada. Along with mild weather and reduced crowds, the vibrant autumn colours are a major attraction.

What cities are on the East Coast of Canada?

Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec City are the most populous cities in Eastern Canada. Coastal cities include Halifax and St. John’s.

Can you take a train trip on the East Coast of Canada?

Yes, VIA’s Ocean train runs along the East Coast of Canada. This sleeper train travels between Halifax and Montreal.

About the author: Hannah Poaros-McDermott is the Senior Content Coordinator at Fresh Tracks Canada. She has previously written for and shared her local knowledge in Where Vancouver, Where Whistler, and Essential Vancouver magazines. Originally from the UK, Hannah travelled...   Read more

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Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, does amtrak go to canada.

Three Amtrak routes travel to and from Canada: Adirondack, Cascades and Maple Leaf. Proper documentation is required to cross the US-Canadian border, such as a passport (view rules and requirements ). Learn more about each Amtrak route below, all of which offer connections to VIA Rail for train travel across Canada.

Trains on the Adirondack route travel between New York City and Montreal’s Gare Centrale Station . There are two stops in Canada (Saint-Lambert and Montreal) and many stops in Upstate New York (including Albany and Sarasota Springs). It’s one of the most scenic Amtrak routes on the East Coast — there are wonderful views of Lake Champlain and the Hudson River Valley.

The Amtrak Cascades is a west coast route that connects Vancouver, British Columbia with cities in Washington and Oregon. For travel to Canada without a train transfer, board the train in Portland or at stops north of Portland, including in Tacoma, Seattle, Everett and Bellingham. Enjoy beautiful views of Puget Sound while on board. Note that Vancouver, B.C. is the only stop in Canada, and you’ll arrive at the Pacific Central Station .

Maple Leaf Amtrak trains travel between Toronto and New York City via the Hudson River Valley. There are six stops in Canada to choose from (Niagara Falls on the Canadian side, St. Catharines, Grimsby, Aldershot, Oakville and Toronto Union Station ). In addition to New York City, you can also board the train in Upstate New York, including in Buffalo, Syracuse, Rochester and Albany.

More Information

• Amtrak to Vancouver
• Amtrak to Montreal

Top photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons (Toronto Union Station)

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Follow Me Away

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15 Things To Know Before Taking The Train Across Canada

January 2, 2019 //  by  Follow Me Away //   181 Comments

If taking the train across Canada isn’t on your bucket list, it totally should be! Seeing the entire country, from Halifax to Vancouver, by train is an unforgettable experience like no other. You will go to sleep in one province and time zone and wake up in a completely different part of Canada.

The Canadian train is a wonderful way to slow travel across Canada and enjoy the scenery, cities, and people along the way.

We have put together some things you should know about a trans-Canadian train journey so you are fully prepared for the epic you are about to experience! We recommend  checking out Skyscanner to find the best and most affordable flights into Canada.

We use this tool to discover the best flights for our trip because you can easily compare rates. We also recommend booking your train across Canada journey on a travel credit card so you can earn points towards future travel! These are the travel credit cards we personally use! 

Feel free to join our private Facebook group to ask any further questions about taking the train across Canada that you may have and to share your photos and experiences! We welcome getting to know each and every one of you and hearing about your trip!

Before you go, make sure to check out our Packing List For The Train Across Canada

Table of Contents

Train Across Canada: Insider Tips, Schedules, Fares, & Routes

#1: via rail is the only company to offer cross canada train travel.

Via Rail Canada is owned by the Canadian government and is the only company to offer train travel from one end of Canada to the other. If you are looking to travel between Halifax and Vancouver, you are going to have to book through Via Rail.

Worried about only having one choice? Don’t be! Via Rail Canada has been operating for decades as the trusted name in train travel across Canada! When you take the Canadian train, you will be riding with Via Rail!

Check Hotel Prices In Halifax

#2: The entire cross Canada train journey will take between 5-6 days, with no stops

Depending on the time of year you decide to take the train across Canada, the whole trip will take between 5-6 days. This is because you have to be sure that the Canadian train schedules match up with your connecting train!

If you are riding on “ The Canadian ” which runs between Toronto and Vancouver, the trip will be four straight days if you don’t get off.

If you want the true transcontinental experience and start in Halifax, you will take “ The Ocean ” to Montreal and then take a commuter train down to Toronto. If this sounds confusing, it really isn’t and Via Rail staff are just a phone call away to help with the planning.

Start Your Train Trip Off By Checking Hotel Price In Toronto

#3: Winter is the best time to take the train across Canada

You may be thinking that Canada in winter is a frozen tundra, but you are overreacting! We saw temperatures that ranged from 30-35*F in the mountains and 38-55*F everywhere else.

During the winter, you can book a transcontinental train journey for much cheaper than high season and will enjoy huge benefits including less people to compete with for views on the train.

Just make sure you pack your winter coat and a warm sweater for the train , you will want to be cozy! For more detailed information on what to pack, check out our post on 10 Things To Bring On The Cross Canada Train! 

If you are planning to stopover at some cities like we did, the cities will be free from loads of tourists and much cheaper as well. Most importantly, traveling by train across Canada during the winter actually gives you the best views of any season!

Since many trees have shed their leaves, you can see through them and out to the landscapes beyond!

If you traveled during the summer, the trees would have their leaves and you would be stuck in a “tree corridor.” Don’t forget to pack your camera for great photos! We love the Sony a6000 for an affordable camera that anyone can easily learn to operate!

#4: Delays in the Via Rail Cross-Canada Train schedules are a very real thing…plan accordingly

Because of our booking process [we booked over the phone and the HR representative was leaving for surgery and 5 weeks of recovery the day after we booked], we did not know that the Canadian train would experience serious delays during our journey.

If we had known in advance and planned accordingly, the delays would have been no big deal. Since we had not, the delays had a big impact on a large part of our trip.

To be fair to Via Rail, they do have disclaimers on their website that you should not book onward travel or activities the day your train arrives into your station.

Delays are unlikely to happen every trip and our experience was extreme, but it is never bad to be prepared when taking the trans-Canada train.

Our Via Rail train was from Toronto to Jasper left 5.5 hours late which resulted in us arriving in Jasper 3.5 hours late [considering time change]. The Canadian train from Jasper to Vancouver [we did a stopover] was a whopping 9 hours late which cost us an entire day of sightseeing.

The moral of the story? If we had known about the possibility of delays in the Via Rail schedule, we would have simply added an extra day to our itinerary at each destination and would have expected delays at each stop.

Then, if we arrived at a reasonable time, it would have been unexpected. If you are planning to travel across Canada on Via Rail, simply build one extra day into your itinerary at each stop and do not book any flights the day you arrive.  You can keep abreast of on-time performance on Via Rail’s website. 

Don’t let delays keep you from taking the train across Canada, simply be prepared!

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#5: Passenger trains in Canada share the track with freight and do not have priority

The main reason for all the delays on the Canada train? On Canada rail, freight trains bring in more money than passenger trains do so they get priority on the track. The freight company also owns the train tracks so Via Rail trains must often head over to a side rail to wait while freight trains pass.

Each train that passes may take up to 20-40 minutes because some freight trains in Canada can be 3 miles long!

Since passenger trains in Canada are a lot shorter, they must wait on a side track until freight passes. It is pretty neat to see the giant freight trains pass your train and count how many cars make up the train. That is a great way to make this part of the train ride across Canada even more enjoyable!

#6: Sleeping on the Trans-Canadian train is magically relaxing

We have slept in cars, on planes, and on cruise ships, but sleeping on the Canada train was something special and one of the best parts about taking the train trip across Canada.

The sound of the Canada rail cars traveling over metal tracks coupled with the relaxing movement of the train rocked us to sleep in under five minutes each night.

The motion of the Canada train was perfect enough to feel completely relaxed without feeling anxious about constant movement.

For an even more restful night, don’t forget to bring your sleep mask and earplugs for maximum comfort! Traveling by train across Canada made for some super restful nights!

#7: Not stepping foot outside the Canada train for days on end is not a problem

You can get off the Canadian train at pretty much every stop if you want so not getting off for three straight days is totally on us! We are homebodies and it was winter so we didn’t mind hanging out on the train through Canada for over 72 hours.

We got plenty of exercise trekking between all the Canadian train cars multiple times a day [these things can belong!] and loved being cozy inside at all the stops our train across Canada made!

If you are considering taking Via Rail “The Canadian” train trip, choose your stops along the way or choose to ride the Toronto to Vancouver train the whole way! Whatever you chose, you Canada train experience will be memorable!

#8: Only some Cross-Canada trains have Wifi

“The Atlantic” and the corridor train in Canada that connects Montreal to Toronto both come equipped with Wifi in certain cars, but “The Canadian” [the longest Canada train you will be on] does not.

The connection on our trains from Halifax and Montreal was great and it was nice to have access to the outside world.

It would have been nice to have the option for Wifi on “The Canadian” but you won’t die without it and it’s a great way to detox digitally. If you plan to take the train ride across Canada, pack or download some books in case you want to read them.

#9: You will find plenty to do and will rarely be bored on the train trip across Canada

In our entire 6 days of traveling by train across Canada, we can safely say that we were not bored one single time. The whole beauty of the train ride across Canada is getting to stare out the window and watch the world go by. 

We are an introvert/extrovert couple and the experience was delightful to both of us. Via Rail Canada has activities on board such as wine and beer tasting, live music, discussions about what is going on outside and more.

There are also magazines and books and a constant supply of coffee, tea, and snacks. We also downloaded movies and watched them at night while relaxing on our bed. A Canadian train trip is truly an enjoyable and relaxing experience that you won’t soon forget!

#10: Trans-Canada train food is actually very delicious

If you book a “sleeper plus” class ticket on “The Canadian” and “The Atlantic”, you will have access to three very yummy meals a day in the dining car when riding the Canadian train.

For each meal, you are offered a soup or salad starter, a choice between a variety of entrees, and a choice of dessert. We were thrilled that there was a vegetarian entree offered with each and every meal for Victoria.

The food you will eat during your time on the train through Canada is high quality and home-cooked by Via Rail chefs in the kitchen. They have the ability to make minor substitutions since everything is cooked right in the dining car.

During one of our delays, the only vegetarian food left on the Canadian train was a salad, so the chef cooked Victoria a delicious grilled cheese with soup and salad. We were really impressed by the flexibility and range of food offered on a train across Canada!

#11: You can choose your accommodations for the train across Canada based on your budget

With a little saving, everyone should take the opportunity to take the train across Canada. Fortunately, Via Rail offers a bunch of options for each price point. If you are on an extreme budget, you can travel in economy class, but you will not receive meals and you have to sleep in your [comfy] seat.

Looking for more room? You can book a “roomette” on the “Canadian” which is a cute semi-private bunk bed that lines the hallway in the sleeper car. The beds are huge and you have a curtain for privacy.

Alternatively, you can book a private cabin for one, two, or three, depending on your needs. Finally, if you are looking to go all-out, you can book the pricey Prestige Class which offers a full bed, unlimited liquor, a TV and more.

Although it is expensive, prestige is already fully booked for the summer so it is quite a popular way to travel by train across Canada. We stayed in a cabin for two it was super roomy and comfortable for the journey! You can keep track of the lowest possible fares on this page! 

#12: The “Dome Car” offers the best view of Canada by train

The “Dome Car” was our favorite part of the Canada train and one of the best parts about traveling by train across Canada. It is equipped with very comfortable seating that elevates you above all the other train cars, giving you a 360 view of your journey.

This car is by far the most popular so we suggest getting there early if you want to a good space [but don’t leave items to “save” your seat].

This car is perfect for photographers [or smartphone photographers ] because you can see the entire train, what is ahead, what is above, and what is behind. These days, you can buy really affordable GoPros that make taking great videos and wide-angle photos easy for anyone! It is certainly one of the best parts of seeing Canada by train!

#13: You will meet a ton of new people on the train trip across Canada

Even if you are very introverted like Terrence, you are most likely going to meet a bunch of new people when riding the train across Canada.

We met people from different parts of Canada, America, Australia, England, and Korea. Simply by virtue of sitting together and admiring the scenery, you will start to connect with or chat with others.

People were intrigued by our camera which opened us to a lot of conversations making the train trip across Canada even more fulfilling!

In addition, you may not always get to sit at a private table for meals. Since the cars are so small and there are a lot of people, you may be put with other groups to dine. Other diners can tell if you are open to talking or not but some will befriend you anyway.

Out of all the meals we ate with others, there were only two where we didn’t chat with our meal partners very much. By the end of our train ride across Canada, we had given away every business card to save one to all our new friends!

#14: You will travel through 5 time zones and getting used to a new one is super easy on the Trans-Canada Train

If you choose the entire transcontinental train trip, you will pass through five time zones [Atlantic, Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific] from Halifax all the way to Vancouver.

Some people online seem to think that traveling losing time while your train is going forward will mess with your mind. It actually won’t and this is truly the best way to cross time-zones that we have experienced.

When traveling out west, we usually have a difficult time adjusting to the time zone. During our time on the Canadian train, we didn’t have a problem at all and our sleep was right on target the entire time!

If this is something you are worried about or considering, don’t fret! There is something about taking the train across Canada that makes time zones a lot easier to adjust to! If you think you may still have a hard time adjusting, we suggest taking some melatonin just in case.

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#15: You won’t want to say goodbye to your train trip across Canada

You just rode a train across Canada which is something not many people get to do! When it comes time to pack up your belongings and say goodbye to the train and your journey, it is going to be really hard!

The experience is so unique that you will instantly begin to miss the motion, the meals, the views, your accommodations, and more.

We genuinely felt a little sad every time we had to step off the Canadian train, but especially when we arrived in Vancouver and had to leave for good.

Make sure to make the most of your travel so you can remember every detail about your time on the Canadian train!

Train Across Canada Routes

If you plan to take a train trip across Canada and you want to go the entire way, from Halifax to Vancouver, you will be taking two different Cross-Canada trains but they will all be with Via Rail Canada.

If you want to head from Toronto to Vancouver or back on the train across Canada, you will want to choose “The Canadian” option on the Via Rail Canada website under “The Great Western Way” tab. Via Rail Canada is the only company who provides the train trip across Canada through the entire country.

“The Canadian” is the most popular train trip across Canada route and you really can’t go wrong with choosing it. It will show you the best of what Canada by train has to offer. But, if you are like us and want to truly travel Canada by train from one end to the other, you will choose “The Canadian” route as well as “The Maritime Way” Canada train route to take you through the Canadian Maritime area.

Fares And Prices For The  Train Trip Across Canada 

The good thing about taking the train across Canada is that you can choose the price you want to pay! If you are looking for a honeymoon or anniversary getaway, we recommend booking Prestige Class accommodation on the Canadian train to give you something romantic and luxurious.

If you are a student on a budget but still want to experience a train ride across Canada, Via Rail offers economy class fares and sales!

Winter prices for an economy ticket for the train through Canada start at $431 [updated 2018]. This is for the Canadian route from Toronto to Vancouver during the winter months.

We took the Cross Canada train in winter and highly recommend it! A winter fare for the train trip across Canada for Prestige Class, the most expensive Canada train fare offered, ringing in at $4,156 for the four-day cross Canada train trip.

Via Rail makes seeing Canada by train accessible to a variety of budgets with their varying cross Canada Train fares. There are budget trans Canada train options, luxury train across Canada options, and everything in between, depending on what you are looking to spend.

Check out the example fares directly from Via Rail below to see prices on the train trip across Canada.

Schedules And Timetables For Seeing Canada By Train

If you are looking for the updated train across Canada schedules and Cross-Canada train timetables, we recommend checking out this page on the Via Rail website . These timetables will show you the exact schedule for the train trip across Canada as written by Via Rail Canada.

Please remember that these trans-Canada train trip schedules are just predicted as things may change as detailed in our post above. We highly recommend being flexible when taking the Canadian train trip as the Canada train doesn’t always stick to the timetables laid out here due to freight trains, weather, and a variety of other reasons.

Safety Tips For The Train Across Canada

You may be surprised to see a section on safety tips for the train across Canada, but safety is important. Our number one Canada train safety tip is to make sure you are always holding onto two parts of the train at one time.

This means that if your feet are on the ground one hand should always be holding onto something on the train such as a wall, railing, or chair.

The train tracks in Canada can get quite old at parts which makes the ride a bit bumpy. The hallways are very narrow and if you aren’t holding on and walking slowly, you can get thrown between the walls, and yes this happened to us and other people on our cross-Canada train trip.

To avoid this, walk slowly and with care when making your way throughout the Via Rail train. Ensure that you are always holding onto something because although the ride may seem smooth, you can’t predict what the tracks are going to look like in a few moments and you are putting yourself at risk of being thrown off balance if the ride gets rough.

When walking between train cars, make sure to walk quickly and safely through the part where the cars connect. If you are taking the train across Canada in the winter, you will see snow buildup between the cars and it will be cold and possibly slippery.

As long as you are always anchored in two places [the floor and something else] you should have a safe and enjoyable train ride in Canada!

Getting To The Cross Canada Train

Luckily, getting to the Cross Canada train for your train ride across Canada has never been easier! The train through Canada begins and ends in two major world cities, Vancouver or Toronto!

Depending on where you are coming from in the world, the prices to fly to these cities are quite affordable! If you plan to take the train across Canada from either the United States or Canada, you may be within driving distance to one of the places where the train ride across Canada either starts or ends!

If you are in driving distance to either Toronto or Vancouver, we recommend renting a car one way and leaving the vehicle at your destination. This way, you won’t have to come back to your starting point to return the car or pick up your own vehicle.

If you are flying in order to take the train across Canada, we highly recommend looking out for deals and considering budget airlines and a variety of days of the week in order to get the best deal. Luckily getting to the cross-Canada train is quite easy to do!

Quick Tips For Taking This Train Trip Across Canada

Pack light for the cross canada train.

When taking the train across Canada, make sure to pack light but comfortably. We have a packing list for your Canada train trip, but we want to ensure that you understand how small the cabins on Vai Rail trains may be unless you book prestige class.

You want to have enough clothing to be comfortable in, but you also don’t want your clothing and bags to overrun your room on the train through Canada!

Call Via Rail If You Have Any Questions Regarding Booking Your Train Ride Across Canada

Via Rail is very helpful in answering all of your questions. If you have not found the answer here, feel free to ask in the comments and we will do our best to answer your Canada train questions to the best of our ability.

That being said, if you can’t find the answer anywhere online and want to make sure, it is a good idea to simply give Via Rail a call! They will help you out! You can call Via Rail here: 1 (888) 842-7245

Never Book Onward Travel The Day Your Cross Canada Train Arrives In Station

As detailed above, Via Rail must give priority to freight trains as Via Rail does not own the tracks for their train trips across Canada. As a result, you may experience delays that range from 20 minutes to 7-10 hours.

Be prepared for potential delays by not booking any onward travel such as flights or long drives on the day your Via Rail train is due to arrive in the station.

We also advise not to make any plans that are set in stone such as going to a birthday party or a specific hike. Make loose plans for the day you arrive at any station where you get off the Canadian train and be flexible as there very well may be delays.

Delays On The Canadian From Toronto To Vancouver Will Always Be The Worst

It is important to be aware that you may experience the worst delays when taking “The Canadian” route from Toronto To Vancouver by train. This part of the country is very popular with the freight trains, more than any other region in Canada. If you are taking the train from Halifax to Montreal or one of the other routes that Via Rail offers, you will be less likely in experiencing delays.

For our portion of our cross-Canada train trip that went through the Maritime provinces, we only experienced a few short delays whereas on “The Canadian” from Toronto To Vancouver, we experienced major delays as detailed above.

Instead of fretting about delays, we recommend you look on the bright side and be happy that you are getting “free” extra time on to enjoy travel across Canada by train. If you prepare yourself for delays ahead of time with our tips, you should be smooth sailing!

You Don’t Have To Spend A Fortune To Experience A Trans Canada Train Trip

Did you know that Via Rail has economy class? Although we did not personally take the train across Canada in economy class, we have heard from many readers that the Toronto to Vancouver train trip is still very worthwhile to take in economy class.

During our time on the trans Canada train, we did see economy class and the seats looked very comfortable. Economy class Via Rail passengers have access to their own viewing car and an area where you can purchase food too.

We have also been told that economy class on the train ride across Canada is a great place to make friends and meet new people from around the world!

Via Rail Also Offers Luxury Train Trips Across Canada If You Want Pampering

In 2017, Via Rail introduced their Prestige Class. It was brand new when we took the cross Canada train, but we peeked into the rooms and took a few photos. Prestige Class sold out an entire season very quickly and it is easy to see why.

The Prestige Class rooms are only on “The Canadian” which is the Toronto To Vancouver train trip and the rooms are huge and offer full-sized beds, picture windows, large bathrooms, and your very own dome viewing car for your class.

If you are looking for a luxury train trip in Canada, Prestige Class is perfect for you and after seeing the cabins in person, we highly recommend the experience! Sleeping in a full bed next to your partner while looking out as your trans-Canada train whizzes through the countryside? What could be better than that?!

Be Aware That The Canadian Train Is Not Equipped With Wifi And Prepare Accordingly

This may sound redundant, but this cross Canada train journey does not come with wifi accessibility. No idea why other than possible budget restrictions, but it is slightly annoying but not the end of the world.

Now you may be a more mature traveler reading this and thinking oh you young folks and your phones can barely go without wifi for 5 days but that isn’t the case! The majority of older travelers on our trans Canada train trip were very annoyed with the lack of wifi so we promise it just isn’t young people!

Instead, make sure to come to your train trip across Canada prepared with lots of reading materials and perhaps an ipad with some movies or books on tape downloaded. During the day, you will have plenty to see and do, but we found having a book and some movies for later at night after dinner was quite helpful and enjoyable.

We recommend a Kindle E-Reader and a Kindle Unlimited subscription which gives you unlimited access to over 1 million titles! You can do a free trial of the Kindle Unlimited subscription and just cancel after your cross-Canada train trip which is exactly what we did 😉

Map Of The Train Across Canada Route

Sometimes, it can be easier to visualize something which is why we created this map of the train across Canada route. You can see the true size and scale of where you will visit when you take the cross Canada train.

When you look at the photo below, you will see the name “Union Station” which is the name of the Via Rail station in Toronto.

If you are only taking “The Canadian” then your Canada train journey will begin or end at this point. If you are doing the entire thing, then this is where you will transition between trains just like we did. Feel free to download this map so you can keep track of where you are during your Canadian train trip!

Click Here For Google Map Of The Train Route Across Canada

With the proper preparation, the train across Canada will be the trip of a lifetime. It is such a fantastic experience that you won’t forget. During our train ride, we even talked to other passengers who have been on the same journey multiple times because they love it so much!

No matter what time of year you ride the cross Canada train, you will have a wonderful experience. Is a Canadian train trip on your bucket list? Make sure to let us know if you decide to see Canada by train! Let’s chat in the comments. 

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Please note: We were hosted by Via Rail for the purpose of this review. Our views are all our own and do not reflect those of Via Rail Canada. We were not paid to write this post. This post also contains affiliate links which means we may make a small commission at no cost to you if you purchase an Amazon product suggested by us. 

Reader Interactions

March 16, 2017 at 11:32 am

I’d do it just for those views! Scenery central

March 16, 2017 at 11:43 am

It was absolutely scenery central!!

March 28, 2017 at 9:18 pm

My wife and I will be taking the train car from Toronto to Vancouver summer of 2018. How far ahead should we book the trip if we want the sleeper car and meals.

September 22, 2017 at 4:57 pm

How far ahead should you book for a sleeper car for 2 Toronto to Vancouver one way mid August

September 23, 2017 at 6:15 pm

I would do it no later than early 2018 — that is a busy time of year and you will want to make sure to get the best accommodations you can.

February 18, 2019 at 1:55 pm

we would to travel sometime in the summer months

February 19, 2019 at 1:42 am

Do you mean 2018 or 2019 travel?

To get exactly the accommodations we wanted, we booked six months ahead and bought “no excuses” travel insurance in case we had to cancel. The train only runs twice a week and sells out. Booking now is not too early!

Watch out for the schedule. The timing changes May 1, 2019. Check it out on the Via Rail website.

If your big “want” is the Rockies section, the direction of travel and timing is key. The run from Jasper to Vancouver westbound through the mountains takes 24 hours. Since the train never stops overnight, about half of the run is at night. Kamloops is the halfway point.

After May 1 westbound you’ll travel the Rockies past Mt. Robson in the day; when it’s dark at night you’ll go through the spectacular Thompson/Fraser River canyons in the Coast Range. Eastbound you’ll have daylight for much of the canyon. However, you’ll have to be up at the crack of dawn to see the North Thompson River canyon and the passes around Mt. Robson if you travel in late June/early July when the days are the longest.

Because of this timing dilemma, we ended up using a Rocky Mountaineer alternative west of Jasper and The Canadian between Jasper and Toronto. Both were worth the time and every Looney it cost us. Via Rail service was fabulous.

FYI, we booked through a knowledgeable travel agent rather than direct with the providers ourselves. The agent did a great job and was able to find and book some wonderful “hidden” deals.

March 8, 2019 at 6:28 pm

How far ahead should we book if we want a sleeper car and meals

July 25, 2017 at 8:29 am

Everyone who travels this route MUST hear this song before they do … it so exemplifies this experience:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yftz0Lxf5yA

May 10, 2017 at 12:25 pm

I rode the Canadian years ago in a cabin for one. West to East. Would like to do it again.

August 29, 2018 at 8:35 am

Um…no stops ??? There is NO train that goes entirely coast to coast. You need to take at a minimum 3 different trains…Halifax to Montreal, Montreal to Toronto then a another from Toronto to Vancouver…the train is extremely slow and can be very boring. Via used to have a great deal where you were given 7 one way passesto be used over 21 days that would easily get you across the country and allow you to stop for a few days in different places.

March 16, 2017 at 1:16 pm

Looks like a blast!

March 16, 2017 at 2:19 pm

WOW! We have to do this! We have been wanting to travel through Canada and we have also been wanting to do an epic train ride. This combines both of those dreams. Those winter photos are incredible! Thanks for sharing, we will be doing this one day!

March 16, 2017 at 4:32 pm

Honestly, this is the ultimate way to see Canada! If you don’t want to do the whole trip, you can pick segments to do too! Have fun and let us know if you book 🙂

January 4, 2019 at 3:09 am

Can you go West to East then back again? Are they set up for someone in a wheelchair? It’s just me now. Would I simply double the 1600. for a round trip? I really enjoyed this article. Thank you. Lyn

January 4, 2019 at 5:32 pm

Hello! Yes you can take it both ways and many people on our train actuallly did that. Yes you do have to pay double but it is entirely possible to do. They did not seem very accessible when we went as parts have stairs BUT Their Prestige class should have more accessibility. I would call them and ask! They will know best. Good luck!

January 6, 2019 at 4:32 pm

You need to call the ViaRail “800” number and talk to the representative about your mobility issues, their accommodation/assistance options, and whether they will require you to have an able bodied travel companion accompany you (at a special fare).

FYI, The Canadian and some of the cars on The Ocean were built in the 1950’s — long before disability access was on anyone’s radar screen. In its recent renovation of The Canadian Park Cars (the rounded end car at the back of the train), they added a handicapped bedroom with roll-in rest room and an electric lift in the vestibule of the car for access from the station platform. However, the rest of the train is still problematic with narrow passageways, sharp turns, manual doors between cars, etc. Even in those Park Cars, they left the steps in the corridor where it passes under the dome enroute to the rounded lounge at the rear.

If your real goal is to see the Canadian Rockies by train, check out the Rocky Mountaineer alternative. Their equipment is new and handicapped friendly, and their services for passengers with special needs are excellent.

March 16, 2017 at 3:02 pm

Oh my to be honest I didnt even know this train existed in Canada but it seems like a very fun experience even as a family. Delays can always be a pain but as you said, if you are prepared you can always make the best out of the situation and learn how to work around it.

March 16, 2017 at 4:31 pm

Yes! There were a lot of families with small children on the train too and the kids LOVED it! Yep, making the best of the situation is easy when you are a little prepared 🙂

March 16, 2017 at 6:41 pm

Love that there are options for different budgets! The food looks tasty and the view look absolutely surreal!! Thanks for sharing this awesome adventure guys!!

March 16, 2017 at 7:22 pm

Yes! There is certainly something for everyone 🙂

March 17, 2017 at 1:09 am

Would the scenery be as good going from the west to east? Looks like a super get a way.

Y’all are living a dream, enjoy it while your young then do it again when you get old. Blessings to ya.

March 18, 2017 at 10:40 am

Yes!!! The scenery is just as great going the other way! Via Rail makes sure to go through the prettiest areas in the daylight 🙂

November 11, 2017 at 9:56 pm

I’m not sure about that… I think the scenery changes when you go the other way down the track.

March 17, 2017 at 1:56 pm

I had no idea that Canada had such an awesome way to experience their country from coast to coast. It looks like the winter is a great time to travel the train, and enjoy that great country.

Thanks for the info!

March 17, 2017 at 5:33 pm

This sounds like so much fun! This would be a perfect family vacation- our kids would get a kick out of riding the train!

July 11, 2019 at 10:28 pm

Can you please explain how or if there would be stopovers at “ports of call”? If you get off the train and it leaves, do you catch another train or do you not get off? I would love to take this trip for our 30th anniversary.

July 12, 2019 at 2:56 pm

You can do free stopovers that is totally okay! Otherwise, the stops usually last between 15 minutes to a few hours!! Call Via rail they can best help you with this!!

March 20, 2017 at 11:36 am

This looks amazing! I still find train travel to be a little romantic, especially with the thought of riding through landscape after landscape of winter wonderlands. I’m hoping to see more of Canada this year, and it’d be perfect to go from Toronto to Vancouver, where I have friends in each city. Definitely bookmarking for future use.

Also you guys are too cute!

March 20, 2017 at 2:32 pm

Wow this sounds amazing! Definitely adding it to my bucket list now. The dome car is great – makes me wonder why we don’t have any in Europe!

March 27, 2017 at 2:00 pm

The dome car is THE BEST!!!

March 21, 2017 at 4:39 pm

This is a great post! Just planning our Canada trip to celebrate a “big” birthday later on in the year and a train journey is definitely on the cards, even if just between Vancouver and Jasper. Bookmarking for future reference!

March 27, 2017 at 1:58 pm

Yes! That is the great thing about Via Rail….you can choose how long/short you want to travel!

March 27, 2017 at 6:15 pm

We traveled up from NZ to cross Canada by Via Rail train from Vancouver to Halifax in 2014. it was the most awesome trip imaginable! We overnighted in Toronto to go and see the Cirque du Soleil production of Kurios, then carried on to Halifax where we stayed a week. It was the most awesom trip 🙂

March 27, 2017 at 7:10 pm

You quoted the train “the Atlantic” between Halifax & Montreal under #2. The train is referred to as “The Ocean” & not “The Atlantic”. Also you mention the portion between Montreal & Toronto is a “Commuter Train”. It’s not a Commuter train it’s rather VIA’s Corridor service. Also the bunks you mentioned in the hallway with a curtain they are refereed to as “Upper” & “Lower” berths.

March 27, 2017 at 7:37 pm

My mother and I took the Canadian a few years ago when there was a super deal. She was a senior so got an even better deal. One tip is to consider travelling from Vancouver to Toronto instead of the other direction. It doesn’t fill up as quickly so we were able to get the dates we wanted. We opted for a couple of stop overs (no extra charge) so stayed in Edmonton and Winnipeg until the next train came in a few days.

The food is wonderful and so are the views. This was on my bucket list but went right back on it after the trip. I want to go in every season.

March 27, 2017 at 7:44 pm

Should a super great expérirence. But there a few error in the articles.

1. The Atlantic is discontinued since the 90. I I beleive you met The Ocean wish is still in service 3 time per week.

2. You dont take a commuter from Montréal to Toronto. Commuter train only run into the communauty around major city and not run by Via rail. You want to take a Via rail intercity train wish do run Montréal Toronto.

3. It is true that you want to plan you trip carefully, The Ocean dont arrive in Montréal in a good enouff time to transfer to the intercity train to catch the Canadian on that same day wish the canadian run 2 time peer week. The only way to make it is to Leave Halifax a Friday. arrive in montréal on saturday 45min waiting time for the departure of the Toronto train arriving same day you must wait 6 hours for the Canadian departure

4. Once again the Atlantic is not in service for many. It the Ocean that have the Wifi.

All of this because the Ocean was cut 6 to 3 time per week. and the Canadian off peck season was cut 3 to 2 time per week. And are Government are not investing enouff for a better Passager rail system into are country.

Dont take me wrong I love the train and would love to find time and budget to travel from my town to Vancouver one day.

But people in Canada should complaint to there MP to get are Government investing back into Via rail for new modern equipement and restore many service that was cut. Like the Super Continental at one time the Canadian was on CP rail and the Super continental on Cn rail. imagine taking one to go to Vancouvert and the other to come Back. Imagine arriving in Montreal and Toronto and you dont have to wait hour or day for the Vancouver connnection.

To all are MP and PM Trudeau please make Via rail create again

March 28, 2017 at 12:08 pm

Yes!! Thank you for your feedback! And we would love to see the MP and PM invest in Via Rail again too 🙂

March 27, 2017 at 8:45 pm

My hubby and I did the trip on The Canadian last May. When I read out your article he accused me of writing it – we completely agree with your summary. Only thing you didn’t comment on are the fabulous staff. We can’t wait to do it again – and yes, in winter next time!

September 12, 2017 at 10:20 pm

What cabin did you stay in? Trying to find out the size of the beds and how comfortable they are.

September 26, 2017 at 11:56 pm

We stayed in Prestige Class. It was a wonderfully comfortable queen size bed with Italian bed linens, down duvet, and lots of down pillows. However, the way the bed is made up, one person is on the “inside” against the cabin wall and the other is on the “aisle” side. Means the inside person has to climb over or around the other to get up in the middle of the night. But, on balance, we’d do Prestige Class again in a heartbeat. FYI, in regular sleeper class, the beds are singles.

February 4, 2018 at 2:22 pm

Hi we are doing the trip May what was weather like.?Will we need jumpers?

February 4, 2018 at 3:46 pm

We would suggest bringing a light one as Canada can be a bit chilly even in May! Depending on if you are doing a stopover anywehre and where you are from and how well you handle the cold 😉

March 27, 2017 at 9:03 pm

FYI, the Halifax – Montreal train is called “The Ocean”, not the Atlantic.

The Atlantic was a different train route that was discontinued well over 25 years ago.

March 27, 2017 at 9:30 pm

already did the trip loved to do it again,sooner the better

March 27, 2017 at 10:17 pm

As I have a pass, I frequently travel in the econo version of the journey between Winnipeg and Vancouver. Why not? It’s free you say. Well….l have stopped doing this for many reasons, the main one being how uncomfortable it is for me (6ft high) and the extreme delays. I have been delayed over 20 hours. The toilets stop working frequently, and the equpipment, which is circa 1950, is starting to show its age. West jet works for me.

March 28, 2017 at 1:45 am

Not long now for us. We are traveling from jasper to Toronto super excited. We have a cabin as we do like some private time. This is our present to us for 25 years of marriage.

March 28, 2017 at 2:20 am

I’ve wanted to ride the Canadian for 10 years but seeing as how I’m on a fixed income I couldn’t afford it but now that I have a reloadable gift card I can keep adding and adding money to it until I have enough to go to the west coast I’m thinking of going to Edmonton for a leafs vs oilers game I’m picking there cause my cousin lives in Calgary but the train doesn’t go there so I’ll have to give him my arrival and departure times so we can spend time with each other once I get enough on my card I’ll save my money and buy the tickets the following hockey season!

March 28, 2017 at 12:07 pm

That sounds like an amazing trip!!!

March 28, 2017 at 9:31 am

I have been fortunate to have travelled from Vancouver during winter to Kingston and West in mid-spring. The lower berth I had going East was perfect. Going West my only complaint was the shower wall was right across from me so no view across from me. My most recent train trip to Jasper and back was in Economy – definitely off season, less expensive and fewer people. However, the 12 hour delay was ridiculous. We did get some free meals – often there is not room in the dining car for Economy class to buy a meal – although by the last supper the choice was sparse. I think everyone should travel on Via at least once. I am already planning my next trip.

March 28, 2017 at 12:06 pm

Delays are never fun but we are glad it all worked out and you are already planning your next trip!

March 28, 2017 at 9:45 am

The train from Halifax to Montreal is actually called “The Ocean” and started service in 1904.

Yes, it’s a perfect trip. Look for sales! It’s more affordable that way!

March 28, 2017 at 10:13 am

The train DOES stop, and you can get off and stretch your legs, although not for very long. There are longer stops at Winnipeg, Edmonton and Jasper, depending on the train’s on-time performance.

March 28, 2017 at 11:10 am

You have a lot of good information here. I agree with about 90% of what you say. But you have a few factual errors and some debatable opinions. I hope you won’t take it amiss if I focus on those things.

#1. I agree.

#2. The Atlantic was a Halifax-Montreal train that ran via Saint John and Sherbrooke. It was cancelled in 1994. The remaining Halifax-Montreal train, on a different route via Campbellton and Ste-Foy, is called the Ocean.

#3. Winter travel has its advantages, but the days are very short. In December in Edmonton, the sun is above the horizon for less than 8 hours, so much of your trip will be in darkness. So you need to weigh the pluses and minuses for when to travel.

#4. You’re right that you need to expect delays. But you say “If you are planning to travel across Canada on Via Rail, simply build one extra day into your itinerary at each stop…” Unfortunately, that’s not possible, since both the Ocean and the Canadian only run 2 or 3 days a week, and you have to work around that schedule.

#5. I could nitpick about some of the technical details, but this is basically correct, and important to keep in mind.

#6. I’m glad you slept well, but not everybody reacts the same way. I love long-distance train travel, and I’ve spent over 200 nights on trains, but I usually don’t sleep very well. For me, the nighttime part of the trip is just something to be endured for the pleasure of the daytime part. I find that earplugs are a big help for sleeping, as the cars usually have something that creaks and rattles.

#7. You’re kidding yourself if you think walking between cars on the train is good exercise. The Canadian makes a 20-30 min stop for servicing about three times a day, and I find that a brisk walk up and down the station platform during those stops is very helpful. There are longer stops in Winnipeg and Jasper, where you may have time to explore the town a little (or maybe not, if the train is running late).

#8. Sometimes the wifi works well on the Ocean and corridor trains, sometimes not. Don’t count on it being available.

#9. Totally agree.

#10. I agree, the food is generally excellent. Only the Canadian has an on-board chef. The Ocean does not, so variations from the usual menu with no advance notice may not be possible. If you have special dietary needs, you should contact VIA in advance of your trip so see if they can accommodate you.

#11. A roomette is the former name for what is now called a cabin for one. The “cute semi-private bunk bed” that you describe was formerly called an open section. VIA now just calls them upper and lower berths.

#12. I agree that the dome cars are great. Readers should be aware that the Ocean has only one dome car, only open to sleeping car passengers, not coach (economy) passengers. The Canadian has at least two domes, one of them open to all, including coach passengers.

#13-15. Totally agree.

March 28, 2017 at 11:59 am

Hey Tom! Thanks so much for your response! We had been meaning to change it to “The Ocean” but were on another trip with no wifi 😉 Very good comments and love how you commented on each point. Interesting to hear you dont sleep as well…we love white noise for sleeping so creaking isn’t a problem!

March 28, 2017 at 2:15 pm

Trip sounds great but how and where do I book it.

March 28, 2017 at 2:21 pm

You can book on Via Rail’s website or by calling them! We linked to their site many times in our post so just click on one of the links to find it 🙂

April 16, 2017 at 3:56 am

This looks so exciting! I really want to try traveling by train, definitely an adventure worth trying!

April 29, 2017 at 11:59 pm

Hi Victoria and Terrence!

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us all! I’ve been on the fence between doing a trip via train across the US with Amtrak vs. doing it across Canada with Via Rail. Have you done a trip like this one in the US by any chance (perhaps from D.C. to LA)? If not, do you know anybody who have done the two and would be kind enough to share their thoughts?

You also mentioned that “People were intrigued by your camera…” What camera did you use for these stunning photographs!? I hope you don’t mind sharing.

I’ve always said I’d do this trip “when I grow up” and you made me realize that hey, why not now? And if not now, then when? So glad I stumbled upon your post and thank you for inspiring me! Sending all the good vibes you way…

April 30, 2017 at 7:42 pm

You also mentioned that “People were intrigued by your camera…” What camera did you use for the photos on this post? Those are some beautiful pictures! I hope you don’t mind sharing.

I’ve always said I’d do this trip “when I grow up” and you made me realize that hey, why not now? And if not now, then when? So glad I stumbled upon your post and thank you for inspiring me! Sending all the good vibes you way.

May 1, 2017 at 11:44 am

Thanks so much for your response! There is no time like the present to travel North America by train! We know folks who have done Amtrack but it certainly isn’t the same thing as Via Rail. If you are looking for economy, they are both similar. If you are looking for an actual place to lay down, Via rail is the way to go. They even offer budget options that are more expensive than economy but cheaper than a larger room where you have a private bunk to sleep in and still get to eat in the amazing dining car. Amtrack only offers seats. We use a Sony A99 camera for our photos and smartphones too 😀

August 3, 2017 at 2:06 pm

We are experienced Amtrak travelers, and you are wrong about “Amtrak only offers seats”.

https://www.amtrak.com/onboard-the-train-sleeping-accommodations

We have always booked the bedroom as my husband is 6’6″ and the roomettes are too small. We are considering our first via-rail trip. Do any of the sleepers have a private bath as the bedrooms on Amtrak? Is there anywhere on the ViaRail website that explains what the sleeping accommodations are like? I’ve looked at some of the information and can’t seem to find it. Also, one other post mentioned that you can get off at intermediate stops with no increase in price. Is that true? We have traveled all the major long distance Amtrak routes and would recommend the Zephyr, which is the Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA route. It goes through the Rockies and is gorgeous.

August 4, 2017 at 7:22 am

Yes it is true. There might be some seasonal restrictions i.e., perhaps in the busier times (summer/fall) … just give them a call and ask. I think there is a restriction around how long the stopover can be, but I believe it was quite a bit of time (1-2 weeks). Most who were doing it got off the train for a few days in Jasper.

The sleeping accommodations range from 1) seats to 2) berths with curtains to 3) private rooms with 2 bunk beds and a private toilet to 4) the Prestige car. If you buy the private room or the prestige, all the meals are included.

Hope that helps.

September 5, 2017 at 2:44 pm

All meals are provided in the Berth section too

August 4, 2017 at 1:04 pm

Hello Cici!

First off, thanks for the correction regarding Amtrack! We did not know! Second, here is the link to the accommodations on Via Rail http://www.viarail.ca/en/explore-our-destinations/trains/rockies-and-pacific/toronto-vancouver-canadian/classes-and-services as Mark said above! Yes, you are able to stopover, but again, as Mark said, it is always a good idea to give them a ring if you want to stopover for a long time. We loved stopping over in Jasper and highly recommend it!

September 20, 2019 at 9:40 am

Hi my husband and are both in our 70 s and are flying out of UK to see our son in stk Louis we would love to take the train from Toronto to Vancouver but are a bit worried about managing the higher bunks would two lower bunks be better as the prestige cabin a little over our budget, any advice welcome Di x

September 21, 2019 at 4:11 pm

I would say it depends on how fit you are to climb up. If you use any accessibility device I would say no it would be difficult but a lot of people on our train in their 70’s were in bunk beds! Only you know your body!

May 1, 2017 at 5:30 pm

We did Amtrak from New York overnight to Chicago; then Chicagoe down to new Orleans. AMtrak was great – but no where near as good as our Via Rail Experience

June 20, 2017 at 10:47 pm

This is a treasure trove of information on Canadian Railway. I am hooked already. It is quite good to note vegetarian dish being served on the train. On the whole this is worth a try at least once.

June 21, 2017 at 12:54 pm

You are so sweet!!! Thank you for this comment, it made our day!

June 29, 2017 at 10:36 am

We just traveled the Canadian Toronto to Vancouver. It is the best experience ever. We loved every bit of it. The scenery was stunning food was first class and we made lots of new friends from all over the world. This must be on everybody’s bucket list.

June 29, 2017 at 12:53 pm

A week doesn’t go by when we don’t think about how fantastic the experience was!!

June 2, 2018 at 4:20 am

Hello 🙂 Did you get off and visit at all? How does it work please ? Been dresming of going out west from Montreal . Wondering if we could hop on and hop off as we go ?

June 2, 2018 at 6:42 am

Yes! We got off in Jasper for 3 days! You are able to plan free stopovers at any of the stops along the way! The best is to call Via Rail and ask all the questions you need! They are quite helpful 🙂

July 16, 2017 at 4:33 pm

I’m so glad I came across this article. My husband and I are going on the Canadian from Toronto to Vancouver in less than 3 weeks. We cannot wait, and your article has really whet our appetite even more! We are going onto Saskatoon a couple of days after arriving in Vancouver so it really will be a trip of a lifetime. (It’s actually a late honeymoon trip, we got married in March this year).

July 16, 2017 at 5:17 pm

First of all, congrats on married life! Second of all, this trip is the perfect thing for a honeymoon! The little train cars are so romantic and you are just going to love it!

July 25, 2017 at 8:18 am

We had the pleasure of being on the same trip as Victoria and Terrence at the same time — I can assure you their account is very good. Had many lovely conversations with them and enjoyed their company. One thing I am not sure they mentioned is, you can arrange to disembark at certain locations, stay a few days and resume your trip on the next passing train with no extra charge. Something I wish would have known. Many got off at Jasper and stayed there for 3 days and them picked up the next train.

It was a pleasure meeting you Terrence and Victoria — good that you are making your lives an adventure!

July 30, 2017 at 1:14 am

Hi Mark!! Thankk you so much for commenting! Good to hear from you! We kind of touched on that in another article but not as much as we should! Hope all is well with you!

March 16, 2018 at 5:14 am

Hello T & V! I am planning on taking the Canadian this July, I will be back in Canada after ten years. I use to live on the Vancouver Island and now I am going back to visit friends. I will be flying to Toronto and flying back home from Vancouver because I want to visit friends in Toroto as well. Could you tell me or share the link about the dropping off in some cities? I think it would make the experience even better for me!

March 18, 2018 at 2:42 pm

Hello! Have so much fun!! Here is a post we did about the stops we saw along the train. There are even more stops that we didn’t get to do and we suggest contacting Via Rail directly about this either by phone or twitter or email! They will be able to help you add them to your trip 🙂 https://www.followmeaway.com/can-see-best-canada-train-breathtaking-stops/

August 6, 2017 at 11:52 pm

Definitely on my list of things to do. I love travel by train. I’ve been across the whole US on Amtrak, and would do it again in a heart beat, even though it’s usually 8 hours late getting to California. I can only imagine how much more beautiful it would be to go sea to sea in Canada. I expect delays in train travel. I’m envious of you folks who have already made the trip.

August 15, 2017 at 8:48 am

Hi there, your blog is fantastic and extremely helpful. My husband and I are looking at doing the train ride in October. I was just hoping you could clarify something for us as we are having difficulty finding the answer on the ViaRail website – if you purchase the Canadian from Toronto to Vancouver, do you have the option of getting off at each stop for an extended period of time, say 1-2 nights, and then pick the train back up? Any assistance is much appreciated and thanks again for the fantastic blog.

August 15, 2017 at 4:06 pm

Hello Jasmine! Congrats on deciding to do the train! We would suggest calling Via Rail! They are very helpful and will be able to answer evey question you have! Yes, you are able to get off at each stop for a longer period of time, but it all depends on when the next train comes! We had to wait 3 days for the next train from Jasper, but that was winter so the October schedule may be different! Just call Via Rail for the best assistance! Good luck and have fun!

August 15, 2017 at 10:46 pm

Thanks for the great post. We are excited to take the trip next week on The Canadian. Couple of questions. We are all vegetarian. Do we have to let them know our food preference days in advance? Is there no WiFi on this train at all? I couldn’t figure it out from their website. My kids won’t be happy without WiFi. Thanks in advance.

August 16, 2017 at 1:32 am

Nope! No wifi at all 🙁 Sometimes you can get a bit of phone service when passing towns but there is no Wifi. We feel like this is something Via Rail needs to consider upgrading on as a lot of guests find wifi very important. There is a vegetarian option included on the menu for each and every meal which is amazing! You don’t have to call ahead at all and the meals were quite delicious!

August 27, 2017 at 11:19 pm

Making this trip in November 18, 2017. We are so looking forward to it. It will be our first train trip for both of us.

August 30, 2017 at 9:15 am

Does the canadian have electrical sockets for charging mobiles etc

August 31, 2017 at 3:26 pm

Yes they sure do!! Many of them!

September 2, 2017 at 4:58 pm

Great article and helpful comments! May I ask a “practical” question? For those of you who have taken Via, what’s the ‘customary range’ for tipping – the room attendant? And the restaurant server? Assume typically pleasant service. Thanks.

September 5, 2017 at 11:50 am

Maybe I missed something but is this a round-trip vacation?

September 12, 2017 at 5:38 am

Brilliant article ! I’m moving to Toronto this winter and plan to take this train during Spring. Do you perhaps think Spring is any good, with all the rain?

Can’t be more excited 🙂

Carolina | Myglobalattitude.com

September 12, 2017 at 12:37 pm

Hey Carolina! We loved toronto and think the train would be just amazing in the spring! Even if it rained a little it is so magical to get to ride the train through the rain…very romantic! Have so much fun and good luck!

September 13, 2017 at 6:06 am

We are going in winter 2018 for a month. Am so glad I stumbled upon this page. Just what we wanted to do. Get on and off the train and stay for a night or two in a hotel and do some sightseeing. Could you please tell me the stops so I can do some research on what to do in every stop. We will start in Toronto and last stop will be Vancouver to ski. Thank you so much.

September 13, 2017 at 2:32 pm

Hi Mary — the best thing to do is to contact VIA and let them know when you are going so they can confirm where you will be able to get off for a visit. I imagine it changes with the time of year. In March when we went you could get off at Winnipeg and Jasper. The train will likely leave late from Toronto because the freight trains have priority over VIA and they can be sitting on a spur for a while as the freights go by … so keep that in mind. Our train was 6 hours late leaving. If you are connecting in Vancouver, leave a full 24 hours for the connections. We had a great time and met lots of wonderful people from all corners of the planet – literally!

September 17, 2017 at 6:49 pm

Thanks for sharing this information. It was very helpful. I still have a couple of questions, though.

My husband smokes and I didn’t see any information on the train’s smoking policies. Is there designated smoking areas available, smoking bedrooms, etc?

Is it possible to make the trip a round trip experience or do you need to arrange other transportation back to where you started?

September 18, 2017 at 12:32 pm

Hello Rhonda! There is no smoking at all onboard the train. That being said, your husband will be able to step outside during the train stops to take a smoke break. This is what the staff did during our trip and it is open to passengers too. You can certainly take the train round trip if you want to but the fare will just be more expensive than if you took it one way!

October 11, 2017 at 2:09 am

Victoria and Terrence, Excelente! Have you considered doing the Trans Siberian Railway from St. Petersburg to Beijing? You guys do an amazing job so I would be very interested in seeing that post. Thanks

October 11, 2017 at 4:45 pm

YES! We would love to do a train journey like that!

October 22, 2017 at 12:30 am

Are the Northern Lights visible from “The Canadian” route during the winter?

October 24, 2017 at 1:51 pm

They have actually been known to be seen on The Canadian! Of course it depends on the weather and how bright an area is but it has happened in the past! Good luck!

March 8, 2018 at 3:42 pm

Kris you’d have more luck with VIA Rail’s Hudson Bay train to Thompson Manitoba, the furthest north VIA goes (the line is unfortunately washed out north to Churchill). See also http://www.viarail.ca/en/explore-our-destinations/trains/boreal-routes .

November 1, 2017 at 9:13 am

Thanks for the information, it was just the extras we needed to know before our trip. Just wondering how the baggage allowance works in sleeper class on the Canadian? I imagine if there are 3 of us in one cabin there will not be much room for all our bags? And things aren’t clear about weight limit or if they have to be checked and not in our cabins?

Thanks in advance 🙂

November 2, 2017 at 7:21 am

You will not have much room in the cabin so we recommend checking your luggage and bringing a small backpack for your clothes! Have fun!

December 17, 2017 at 12:44 pm

Have already booked for Aug 2018, in celebration of our 50th wedding anniv, looking forward to the trip. TOR – VC, inland passage cruise, then back to TOR so we’ll have VIA both ways. Round trip on AMTRAK Boston MA to TOR and back will be included. With buffer days included, we’ll make it a 26 day vakay……….CAN”T WAIT!

December 31, 2017 at 9:14 am

Great information and article thank you. I am thinking of taking the Via Rail from Toronto to Vancouver either summer 2018 or 2019 (depending how quickly I can save). I will be flying over from the UK. Is it something that you would recommend for a solo female traveller and did you both feel safe with adequate security etc? Were the staff patient and courteous as I would probably ask them lots of questions being that I am quite anxious?

I’m still a bit confused regarding the baggage allowance. So I could take for example a 20kg pack which would need to be checked into the luggage compartment for the duration of the trip and then take a smaller pack into the cabin, or could I have it all with me?

Sorry for all the questions, any help and advice is appreciated.

December 31, 2017 at 1:54 pm

Oh gosh YES!!! The Train Across Canada is PERFECT for solo female travelers…maybe even more so than couples because couples have to sleep in bunk beds. The trains are 100% safe and the staff is so kind and helpful! We ask a lot of questions too and they are just happy to chat with you and talk to you because the train is long for them too and they are working not having fun like the rest of us! The rooms are TEENY TINY so you woudln’t want to bring a lot of baggage. We each had a carry on size luggage and a backpack and although it fit into the room it was quite large! I highly recommend packing something a bit smaller to use while you are riding the train! Have so much fun!!

December 31, 2017 at 2:12 pm

100% safe for a single female — no issues at all. Staff are courteous and are helpful, but at points they are quite busy, so you have to pick your time. Rooms are small, so I’d suggest bring on the train what you need for 4 days and pack the rest away in baggage. Depending on the package you choose, all meals are included and they are quite good.

Some things to remember — VIA rents the rail tracks so has to give way to CN freight trains at certain spur points. This can delay the train – so, leave a full 24 hours if you are making a connection at the other end. You might not need it, but it allows for these delays and gives you a chance to poke around for a day – lots to see.

Also – and this is important — you are allowed to disembark the train at certain locations and get back on several DAYS later at no extra charge. This allows one to stay at a place on the route and then just pick up a few days later where they left off. Jasper is a place I’d suggest you do that … gorgeous spot with lots of wildlife … we were were sharing the tracks with a huge herd of elk when we arrived.

If you have never been to Western Canada, it can be overwhelming in is vastness, beauty and appeal … while there are many gorgeous spots on this planet, Western Canada has to be one of them.

Finally — listen to Gordon Lightfoot’s Canadian Railroad Trilogy (You Tube it) to get a sense of what the railroad meant to Canada … he sings it best!

Enjoy your trip!

August 16, 2018 at 9:29 pm

I was just reading your comments and it caught my attention as I am also thinking of doing this trip by myself. I am single female and never thought too much about the safety issue, maybe because I live in Canada. My soon took this same trip few years ago with a friend, in the month of January and absolutely loved it. I am also trying to save for it but am really hopeful I can do it within the year. Good luck to you and hope you really enjoy it!

January 13, 2018 at 1:46 pm

I just came across your post (great by the way!) and wanted to offer my encouragement to the budget traveler.

I found riding in coach absolutely comfortable and a great way to socialize and make friends for the journey. I took The Canadian this past June and had two seats to spread out in all the way Vancouver to Toronto. I met plenty of Canadians and travelers from Germany, France, England, Australia, Japan, China, and Denmark (I was the sole American). The train car camaraderie was great! There were even a number of people in their 50s and 60s who did the whole trip in seats.

And ultimately you’ll spend most of your time in the veiwing car anyway!

January 13, 2018 at 8:26 pm

Thank you for this!! This is great to hear!! We hope other people listen to this comment! 🙂

March 9, 2018 at 5:14 pm

Just booked our VIA rail Vancouver to Toronto June 10, 2018. Before that Alaska cruise from Anchorage to Vancouver. i am so excited. loved reading your blog. tons of useful information. thank you. Blessing to you both. happy travelling.

March 9, 2018 at 8:53 pm

Wow!! Your trips sound amazing! have so much fun on both the cruise and the train! Thank you for your kind words 🙂

March 16, 2018 at 8:54 am

We are travelling from Toronto to Jasper in late May on the Canadian then train again up to Prince Rupert to see the Grizzly bears!!

As Brits we are never sure of tipping rules when travelling. What should we expect to pay on the Canadian – we are travelling in Prestige class to Jasper.

One of our dreams to do this trip

March 18, 2018 at 2:39 pm

How fun!! We suggest talking to Via Rail representatives as we did not travel in prestige class so aren’t sure about their tipping policy. It wasn’t like a cruise where they made it apparent that you had to tip by placing little envelopes around either!

March 18, 2018 at 3:16 pm

You will have a great trip — Canada is a huge country and many from Europe do not appreciate that it takes longer to fly from one end to the other than from England to Canada.

In any event, on another trip, we went to see the Grizzly bears at Prince Rupert and it was great. The males will not let you get very close, but the females are not as shy. I assume you are going to the Khutzeymateen Provincial Park … an amazing place. On our way up to the reserve (we went by a very small boat up the Khutzeymateen River), we ran into a pod of Killer whales … they were so close, I could reach out and touch them … one of the most amazing experiences of my life. They played around our boat as we putted our way up the river.

You are about to embark on one of the most amazing experiences you could ever have … I live in Canada and it still boggles my mind — the beauty is stunning.

March 19, 2018 at 6:16 am

We are very excited about the trip – taking in niagara and Vancouver as well. We are staying at the Khutzeymateen Wilderness Lodge for three night. May be a bit early for the whales but should be plenty of grizzlys!!

March 19, 2018 at 1:37 am

We traveled from Jasper to Toronto in Prestige Class; pricey but worth every dime. The cabin was a dream and the crews were wonderful. The suggested tip in Canadian Dollars in cash is C$10 per night per person to the cabin attendants. We tipped more because they took VERY good care of us — late morning continental breakfasts in our cabin or in the Park Car bar area, laying out late night nightcaps for our room before they went off duty at 11:00 p.m. when we were watching a movie, etc. Note that the crews change in Winnipeg, so you’ll need to tip the Toronto to Winnipeg crew before they leave the train and the Winnipeg to Jasper crew just before you leave the train. Meals are included and the menus don’t list prices. The suggested tip was C$2-3 per person for breakfast and lunch and C$5-7 per person for dinner. Because Prestige Class includes any beverages, including wine, I figured our meals would have been more expensive than regular sleeper class. We never had breakfast in the dining car, thanks to the wonderful Prestige Class cabin attendants. However for the two of us at lunch I tipped C$10 each day and for dinner I tipped C$20 each day. For our entire trip I had taken a supply of small envelopes with small cards like are used by florists to identify the giver of a bouquet. I discretely passed out the tips in the envelopes. For the Prestige Class cabin attendants, we wrote a brief note of thanks on one of the cards and included it in the envelopes. When we arrived in Toronto, they had staff waiting for us to take our luggage and take us across to the Royal York Hotel. In Jasper, I would expect they will have a golf cart ready to take you to the station if you need/want it. When we left Jasper, the train was 26 cars long (yes, 4/10th of a mile) and virtually sold out. They took us by golf cart from the station to the Park Car where our cabin was located — way down the street.

March 19, 2018 at 5:24 am

Thank you very much for the detailed response. It will really help and you have suggested some nice additional touches. The UK is still not really a tipping country other than in London so the international “rules” are interesting – someone should write a book on it!! Thanks again John

March 21, 2018 at 12:18 pm

Thinking of doing this trip alone in 19. I need to stick to a tight budget but was hoping to stop off at several places en route. Can I use VIA rail 10 passes to do this ?

April 3, 2018 at 7:04 pm

I’m disabled and normally use a walker. How wide are the isles and easy is it to get around? I heard there is access to a narrow wheelchair on board? Sounds like the train makes enough stops during the day that that will be the best time to move between cars for me. We are booked May 1st Toronto to Vancouver.

April 3, 2018 at 8:23 pm

I would not rely on train stops to use as the only periods to move in the train — there are VERY long periods when the train does not stop. If there is a narrow wheelchair, I would suggest that you make sure that it is available for you. The hall passages in the train are narrow and I am not even sure that a regular walker is narrow enough — might want to check with VIA about that. Also – there is a lot of lateral movement in the train she is up to full speed and it can make walking, even for able-bodied, challenging. I hope I am not being too negative, I just want to make sure that you are fully prepared to have the best time that you can!

May 3, 2018 at 3:47 am

Thanks to sharing such a great tips to know more about Canada Trains. I am sure people will get more help from your post.

August 22, 2018 at 1:56 am

Hello, Thanks for the information regarding the trip. Traveling with the train with 2 children (2years and 3 years) is ok? We can stop in a few cities during the trip to visit Canada ? Liz

September 7, 2018 at 9:08 am

My wife and I did this 2 years ago. The train will briefly stop in a few cities along the route, but you can arrange to get off at a stop and stay there for a while ( week) and then get back on the next train. Traveling with 2 small kid would be challenging as you would have to split the kids up between 2 births and one would be with you and the other with dad … there might be some arrangement to accommodate your family that I am not aware of – so that would be worth checking. You’d also have to be careful traveling between cars with the kids, especially if you were going in winter. It is a beautiful trip, but might be something you might do when they are a bit older (assuming there are no other arrangements that I am not aware of that are more accommodating to families). Best to call VIA and speak to them directly.

October 5, 2018 at 9:41 pm

This is truly an experience that shouldn’t be missed! We don’t get the opportunity to travel by train much in the US so Canada is the perfect place to do it, while enjoying the jaw dropping views. On my list!

October 6, 2018 at 5:18 am

You will have a great trip. Lot of thanks for sharing

October 6, 2018 at 7:19 am

One for the bucket list for sure. I’ve never been to Canada, but it has been a dream of mine for quite some time. And travelling across the country in a train sounds like the perfect thing to do (we do love a road trip, so having it without the driving sounds like a win-win to me). Love your photographs and the detailed guide.

October 6, 2018 at 7:46 am

Only been to Niagara Falls, but Canada is on my bucket list <3 I'd love to go!

commented on your blog　 please find mine, I've shared it today xxx

October 6, 2018 at 1:17 pm

Traveling across Canada by train is now on my bucket list! It looks absolutely amazing!

October 6, 2018 at 10:13 pm

Victoria and Terrence, thank you for the train across Canada blog with photos. You helped us make a decision to take the trip. I pray for your peace and safety as you travel the world!!

October 7, 2018 at 2:44 pm

Wonderful! have so much fun!!

October 9, 2018 at 8:08 am

Such a nice tips for the traveler in Canada. Thank you very much for the train across Canada blog. I was a plan to visit Canada end of this year, I am going to beneficial for this post 🙂

October 19, 2018 at 9:18 am

This is great, thanks! Definitely on my list to do one day so this is very helpful.

October 26, 2018 at 12:35 pm

This may sound silly, but if I booked the Toronto to Vancouver train, am I expected to book flights or an alternate mode of transportation back to Toronto upon reaching Vancouver? That would make the trip considerably more expensive!

October 26, 2018 at 1:51 pm

Yes that is indeed what must happen unless you buy a return ticket which is also quite expensive 🙁

October 29, 2018 at 9:02 pm

Great informative blog – But, Toronto to Jasper Not UNUSUAL for train to be 10 to 24hrs Late, up to a Maximum of 48hrs. Who knows this may not occur for you, but if it does = Missing out on scenery that you were hoping to see/Accommodation in your hotel/Tours booked, but worst of all Never Knowing When you will Actually get on the move again eg Winnipeg train maintenance, waiting for freight to pass, being told that you will depart at a certain time, and then deferred AGAIN and AGAIN! Due to these factors – DO NOT DO THIS TRIP! Outside of this – I agree with the other aspects of the blog. I would so love to recommend this trip, as there are numerous Positive Aspects, but can’t due to reasons given. BUYER BE AWARE!!

June 27, 2019 at 12:28 am

That sounds like the usual train trip in Argentina. We were supposed to leave at 9am but were delayed until 6pm. It soon got dark and we missed ALL of the scenery we hoped to see by taking the train.

October 30, 2018 at 11:17 am

Yours is a reason to plan contingencies better. I think most who have taken the trip have arrived within 12 hours of their scheduled arrival time (for us it was 5 hours). If planning to take the trip, ALWAYS plan any connecting transportation at least 24 hours after your scheduled arrival. 95% of the time that will be enough … but the end of the trip is so beautiful, why not plan a 2-3 day stay (or more) and take a few extra days to enjoy! I would never not suggest this trip because you might be delayed a little, afterall this IS train travel … just know a delay is possible and plan accordingly.

December 9, 2018 at 2:44 pm

I’m surprised no one else has asked this question, but here goes…! Are you allowed to bring your own alcohol on the train? We are booked in a Cabin for Two so have privacy. Thanks!

December 9, 2018 at 3:19 pm

ooooo! That is a good one and we don’t know! You would have to contact Via Rail for that but we assume that would not be allowed. That being said, if you secretly brought some there is no way they could ever tell. But shhh we didn’t say that 😉

December 9, 2018 at 3:56 pm

If you have your own room, I believe that you are allowed — but check to be certain. I believe you can only consume it in your own room.

December 9, 2018 at 3:58 pm

I have checked and the answer I gave it correct.

December 9, 2018 at 6:44 pm

According to the ViaRail policies section of their website, personal alcoholic beverages (i.e., not purchased on the train) may be consumed ONLY in sleeping car cabins. Under the various provinces’ laws, personal alcohol may not be consumed anywhere else on the train. In addition, the website policies section also outlines disrespectful and unsafe behavior that will not be tolerated anywhere on the train and it includes intoxication.

December 25, 2018 at 1:45 pm

Victoria and Terrence,

What a fantastic article and all the other comments about this trip have been extremely helpful. My husband and I plan on doing this trip in May 2020. Vancouver to Halifax. Is one direction really any better or worse then the other? We plan on booking the Prestige Class. Also we are thinking of booking our 14 day trip with Vacations by Rail. Which gives us longer stays and nice hotels when not on the trains. This is a trip we have thought about doing for a long time. I do not believe that arriving late is any big deal. I am sure there are nice hotels and things to do in Halifax.

December 30, 2018 at 5:01 pm

The answer to your question about direction depends on what you want to see, and the schedule of The Canadian. For most travelers, the “must see’ is the Canadian Rockies between Jasper and Vancouver. The problem is that the trip takes 24 hours, and since the train is constantly moving, half the trip is in the daytime and half the trip is in the dark. The Vancouver-Kamloops half of the trip is through the Fraser and Thompson River canyons as they cut through the Coast Range. The Kamloops-Jasper half of the trip is through the alpine valleys between the ridges of the Rockies, through the pass near Mount Robson, and down the valley into Jasper. You have to decide what half you really want to see and then consult the Via Rail schedule to see which direction is best that year. East of Jasper, the schedule doesn’t make much difference in either direction – either way the scenery is a day of trees and a day of prairie. Prestige class was worth every penny we spent; the accommodations were wonderful and the crews were terrific. (There are two crews; the changeover is in Winnipeg.)

The “miss nothing” alternative in the west is to take the Rocky Mountaineer which overnights in Kamloops so the entire train trip is in the daytime. In addition, they offer the Rocky Mountain crossing east of Kamloops on either the Via Rail route direct to Jasper, or the more spectacular Canadian Pacific route across Kicking Horse pass into Lake Louise and Banff. We took the latter and drove the Ice Fields Parkway between Banff/Lake Louise and Jasper—about 165 miles of spectacular scenery.

My only other suggestion is to schedule your trip between June 15 and July 15 – the longest days of the year. This will insure maximum daylight for viewing the scenery and visiting the places along the way. It will also avoid the potential of cold, wet May weather. FYI, the last danger of frost and freezing temperatures is generally the end of May in many of the northern areas you’ll be visiting.

December 31, 2018 at 10:50 am

Thanks so much for your reply. It is a great help. Now we have to decide which company to book with. Vacations by Rail or Across Canada by Train. Any thoughts on either one?

January 5, 2019 at 8:21 am

Hi Victoria and Terrence, this is really on my bucket list. Thanks for this post. It reminds me to pursue this travel.

January 6, 2019 at 9:32 am

This was a fantastic post! Just about everything I needed to know and great tips within!! The only thing I’m still left questioning is if via rail will cargo vehicles too? So if we take a train from Toronto to Halifax, is there any option to bring our car with us? I don’t know the proper term for this so was having troubles finding it on the via website.

January 6, 2019 at 8:22 pm

The VIA train is strictly a passenger train. You might be able to arrange that your car goes across in a freight train and you can hook up with it when you arrive.

January 6, 2019 at 3:59 pm

Barbara-Ann: I have no experience with either Vacations by Rail or Across Canada by Train other than seeing their advertisements. We used an experienced local travel agent in our area who specializes in putting together independent trips with lots of unrelated elements.

January 6, 2019 at 6:55 pm

Thanks for the info.

January 12, 2019 at 8:50 pm

Ah how serendipitous I just ran across this; am hoping to do a Canada train trip for my husband’s 50th birthday this year. Good to have some tips, I really knew next-to-nothing about it. Nice article.

January 12, 2019 at 10:23 pm

Wonderful!! You are going to love the trip! Happy bday to your husband

January 13, 2019 at 10:32 am

Glad I read all This information. Want to plan a trip so I will call Via Rail soon. Very informative.

February 5, 2019 at 10:36 am

So much useful information, thanks! Any person who is planning to travel by train in Canada has to read this article.

March 16, 2019 at 10:15 pm

Your blog was VERY informative and answered many questions I had even though I booked the trip on the Canadian 3 weeks ago for departure from Vancouver to Toronto the first part of April. Just curious as to how you made arrangements to be considered being hosted by VIA Rail.

April 12, 2019 at 10:59 am

what about small pets dogs

April 12, 2019 at 1:15 pm

Unless they are service animals pets are not allowed.

May 31, 2019 at 8:26 am

I am so interested in the Cross Canada portion of the sight seeing train ride from Toronto to Vancouver. However the website isn’t user friendly in identifying the schedule date or the months – I need time to plan to fit a schedule.

How do I do that? I wish they have live chat lines to make things more transparent.

May 31, 2019 at 12:48 pm

You can call Via Rail! They are very helpful and will assist you in planning and rates!

June 21, 2019 at 10:38 am

I recommend getting a Canrail Pass if you want to travel all around Canada. For less than a return trip from Toronto to Vancouver you get 7 unlimited distance one way trips to be used in a 60 day period. It’s a good way to see a lot.

August 12, 2019 at 6:36 pm

Hi Jim, I did buy the Conrail Pass and booked the first distance from Toronto to Jasper. Then like to take the next train from Jasper to Vancouver. Then Vancouver to Winnipeg and Winnipeg to Churchil to see the polar bears. Then return from Churchill to Winnipeg and go from Winnipeg back to Toronto. This is my plan, but what I don’t know is if there is always a seat available or might the train be fully booked? Many thanks for your answer, because I come from Austria and calling ViaRail is not so easy.

July 10, 2019 at 7:25 am

I am thinking of doing the Toronto to Vancouver on the Canadian in July, and driving back to Toronto in a car would be a great way to see more.

But unfortunately, renting a car one-way for just 1 person is expensive, and driving/delivering someone else’s car is hard to find 🙁

September 14, 2019 at 11:01 am

Wold love to cross Canada by rail however I have many relatives, friends to see in almost every province. Are there any such things as a stopover an reboard the next day the train comes through . Like I have a few family members in Alberta, Thunder Bay, and Deep River we would like to see them for a a couple of days then reboard later like spending 2 days at each stop. Is this option available to its passengers. Pete Unwin.

September 16, 2019 at 3:25 pm

Question: We are travelling from Toronto to Jasper on the Canadian in late October 2019. The literature on Cabins for 2 states it can be locked from the inside. Does it not also lock from the outside? How are my carry-on bags/clothing/meds etc. protected while I am away from my cabin for meals and sightseeing? This is a concern!

September 19, 2019 at 2:21 am

Great blog with some useful information. Thx 🙂 I’m planning on doing the Westerner at the beginning of January, travelling from Toronto to Vancouver, stopping off in Jasper. I am debating between n upper or lower sleeping berth, as there is about a $250 difference. I am trying to ascertain while it is in sleeping mode just how much daylight there will probably be – it seems a little pointless paying the price difference and not being able to see much thru the window. I have emailed VIA to enquire but they unfortunately skirt around answering it, I look forward to hearing from you.

October 7, 2019 at 5:43 pm

Yes, I agree with all! Great helpful info on this blog, thank you! Question: we are travelling to Jasper from Toronto leaving Oct 23. We’ll be on the train for three days, then in Jasper for 3 days then back home again to Toronto on the train for three days. My question is: Is it chilly on the train? We have a cabin for 2 but will of course using the Park Car and the Observation Car as well as the Dining Car. It’s autumn/early winter in the West so we’re wondering if we’ll be cold sitting on the train all day. Thanks for your advice!

October 8, 2019 at 2:09 pm

You won’t be cold but def wear a sweater or pullover of some kind as walking through the car does get a little chilly. It isn’t cold by any means!

October 10, 2019 at 11:12 am

Thank you! Just don’t want to be chilly sitting there.

Did you have any issues with the lack of outer door locks on the cabins? Leaving all of our clothes and toiletries unattended is a little unnerving. ViaRail said they’ve had no issues with it. We’ll take valuables with us when we’re in other cars. Thanks!

December 14, 2019 at 12:04 am

ok seems like persons using wheelchairs like seniors and others with invisible disability are not considered worthwhile having set up a marketing plan for us. just a goof or indifference ? we do eat meat so vegetarian dishes are a allergen to many of us, again indifference or willful ignorance?

December 14, 2019 at 2:11 pm

I’m sorry, what do you mean? I think this is better directed at Via Rail for feedback! We are just people who went on the train and reviewed our experience to help others the best we can 🙂

April 21, 2020 at 8:07 pm

This is a cool experience! I wanna try this soon. Just want to ask, how about if I wanna take a bath, is there any?

April 21, 2020 at 11:03 pm

Hey!! It is a fun experience! There are no facilities for a bath. Just showers. So sorry I wish there was!

February 13, 2023 at 4:09 pm

Hello we went on the Canadian from Vancouver to Toronto had a great journey in August 2017 one way .we had bunk beds that came out of the wall and small sink plus toilet .ect .we saw the Rockies mountains in day time which was wonderful to see along with the wild life and changing scenes as we went .The question we ask is we understand if you now travel from Vancouver to Toronto .going through the Rocky Mountains is now at night ,so you cannot view them .Whilst if you travel from Toronto to Vancouver you view the Rocky Mountains during the day now ,so reverse of what we were able to view last time we did the journey .The via site is a bit scarce on detail to do with the Canadian .We booked direct last time and allowed for issues ie delays ect on board ,as one unfortunate sole took ill .so we had a 4 hour stop in the middle of nowhere .the marshal onboard took charge of the situation and a rescue vehicle came eventually .We have also been advised as we are across the pond UK to allow two days in Toronto ie hotel accommodation in case our flight is delayed ect which I guess is good practice if we come that direction ,so we are trying to plan ahead with a travel company ,so we are double checking the latest via schedule plans ,we are not using their chat box AI .,we prefer a human as AI CAN ONLY SEE IN BLACK AND WHITE so any comments would help good or bad thank you .

February 15, 2023 at 2:38 pm

Hello Nigel! i think this is very smart! Our train was also VERY delayed getting into Vancouver and it was super bad delay like 12 hours that led us to missing an entire day of nice weather. Always plan for delays as the freight trains rule up there!

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USA & Canada

USA & Canada train trips

Railways helped shape the USA & Canada we know today, from the Gold Rush to aiding immigration. Evoke nostalgia on a railway trip across Colorado, rail to the Grand Canyon or cross the border on the Maple Leaf

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Canada train trips.

The Rupert Rocket – (Jasper to Prince Rupert Train), Canada

The Ocean Train – Halifax to Montreal

The Winnipeg to Churchill Train – Canada

The Canadian Train – Toronto to Vancouver

Rocky Mountaineer Train – Canada

Other north america train trips.

Copper Canyon Railway – Mexico

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10 Scenic Train Trips Across Canada

• Train trips have become popular among travelers in Canada as a more sustainable and enjoyable way to explore the country's natural wonders.
• From coast to coast, Canada offers scenic train journeys that allow passengers to experience breathtaking landscapes, French culture, and stunning architecture.
• Whether it's admiring polar bears in Churchill, witnessing fall foliage in Nova Scotia, or cycling through the Niagara region, there are many unique train trips in Canada for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

The world is slowly adopting the green economy as a way of saving the planet from destruction. Even travelers haven’t been left behind. Most of them have recognized that airplanes and vehicles are not sustainable ways of traveling and are exploring other options. For this reason, train trips have become more common and appealing.

Canada is a large country with many beautiful natural wonders and top destinations to visit . And seeing them through a window is the best way to experience the country. Besides phenomenal views, train passengers enjoy comfortable, stress-free, and relaxing trips. They only need to occupy their seat and enjoy the ride. Here are 10 scenic train trips across Canada.

16 Thrilling Sleeper Train Journeys In Europe To Add To Your Bucket List

Canada coast to coast by train, see niagara falls, lake louise, and peggy's cove.

Coast-to-coast by train is one of the best train trips in Canada. It is a chance to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, including Niagara Falls, Lake Louise, and Peggy’s Cove. Travelers are offered time on VIA Rail and travel in a sleeper company. The journey starts in Halifax and ends in Vancouver. Taking this ride lets one enjoy the French culture in Canada, stunning architecture, and scenic landscapes.

• Trip distance from Halifax to Vancouver: 4,466 kilometers
• Trip length: 4 days and 4 nights
• Cost : Around $11,380

Vancouver To Toronto On The Canadian

Traveling through forests, mountain peaks, and waterfalls.

The Canadian is a flagship train that offers three classes: economy, sleeper plus, and prestige. Unlike planes, it has large reclining seats with plenty of legroom. The trip includes presenters, musicians, and wine-tasting sessions. The train leaves Vancouver for Toronto, and visitors can see forests, mountain peaks, waterfalls, valleys, and wildlife along the way. It passes through Jasper National Park, stops for some time, and continues to Toronto.

• Trip distance from Vancouver to Toronto: 4,466 kilometers
• Trip length: Almost 4 days
• Cost: Varies between routes and towns, but around CAD 2,500 per person during winter (Approximately $1,850 USD)

Lord Of The Wilderness Bear Viewing In The Canadian

See grizzlies in a wilderness lodge and polar bears up north.

Here is something for wildlife lovers. The train drives passengers across Canada, from Vancouver to Winnipeg. The adventure begins on the West Coast, where passengers go to a wilderness lodge to see grizzly bears. Then, they board The Canadian train in Vancouver, which takes them across the Canadian Rockies before arriving in Winnipeg. After the journey ends, passengers are recommended to fly to Northern Manitoba, the Polar Bear Capital of the world, to explore the arctic tundra and look for polar bears before returning to Winnipeg.

• Trip distance from Vancouver to Winnipeg: Approximately 1,866 kilometers
• Trip length: 3 days and 2 nights
• Cost: $13,430

Winnipeg To Churchill VIA Rail

Admire lush prairie land, huge boreal forests, & hudson bay's polar bears.

Regardless of the time of the year someone is traveling, they are guaranteed things to wow about every step of this trip. From Winnipeg, passengers can admire the lush land at Rivière Rouge and Rivière Assiniboine confluence. As they travel, they can see the waters of Lake near The Pas, the huge boreal forest encompassing the Thompson, and finally, the rocky shores of Hudson Bay in Churchill, where they can see polar bears and belugas in their habitat. For those who’ve never seen the Prairies, this VIA Rail trip will bring them up close.

• Trip distance from Winnipeg to Churchill: 1,710 kilometers
• Trip length : 44 hours 55 minutes
• Cost: From $199

Montreal To Halifax On The Ocean

See whales in the gulf, clear miramichi river, and sugarloaf mountain.

The Ocean journey runs on the Gulf of St Lawrence and passes through New Brunswick before the train heads to Nova Scotia. This is the oldest route in North America and has been operating since 1904. Passengers are rewarded with phenomenal views of the Gulf of Lawrence, where they can spot whales. From there, they can see clear waters as the train crosses the Miramichi River, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Acadian communities. Fall is the perfect time for this trip as travelers see the leaves turn into shades of yellow, red, and gold.

• Trip distance from Montreal to Halifax: 1,346 kilometers
• Trip length: 21+ hours
• Cost: $210 on Economy

Jasper To Prince George On The Rupert Rocket

Tour glassy lakes and charming agricultural towns in central british columbia.

This trip across central British Columbia isn’t popular, especially among the international community. But, it is a very scenic journey to consider. The Rupert Rocket goes over several days to allow travelers to check out daylight vistas. But, passengers organize their accommodation. Along the way, they see glassy lakes and charming and historic towns filled with agricultural produce and wildlife. Some drives include meals and drinks. Others don’t. But regardless of the ride, guests are assured of phenomenal views.

• Trip distance from Jasper to Prince: 1,160 kilometers
• Trip length : 2 days
• Cost: Around $260

Getting From New York City To Niagara Falls: 16 Things To Know

White pass & yukon route railway, see trestles, gorges, and glaciers on a historic railway climbing 3,000 feet with views of skagway harbor.

The White Pass and Yukon Route is a great ride for those who want to learn about the history of Alaska. It leaves Skagway and offers scenic views while allowing ample time to enjoy the area’s other charms. The train goes through Shyster and climbs almost 3,000 feet above sea level. Passengers pass through an inspiration point that looks down on the Skagway Harbor. Dead Horse Gulch with bleached bones of perished animals can be seen. Before reaching the White Pass Summit, travelers have a chance to see the headwaters of the Yukon River.

• Trip distance from Skagway to Whitehorse is: 172 kilometers
• Trip length: 2-2.75 hours
• Cost: $140 for adults, $70 for children

Banff To Calgary On Royal Canadian Experience

Fine dining and canadian rockies views through the alberta prairies.

Fine dining and luxurious accommodations are why people book this trip. On top of that, passengers are rewarded with exceptional views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. The Royal Canadian Experience is a charming and delightful trip, starting in Calgary and traversing through the Alberta Prairies. There is an off-train experience that allows travelers to visit historical attractions such as Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump. They can also see Banff and Lake Louise’s cinematic views along the way.

• Trip distance from Banff to Calgary : Around 127 kilometers
• Trip length : 4 nights, 5 days
• Cost: From $14,000 CAD per person ( Approximately $10,360 USD)

16 Beautiful Towns In Alberta That Give Banff A Run For Its Money

Quebec city to la malbaie on the train de charlevoix, stop at beaches, cliffs, and charming villages.

The Train de Charlevoix travels from the old Quebec City to La Malbaie while making several stops. It is a fun journey with opportunities to hike, cycle, and admire picturesque villages. Passengers can enjoy the beach at Saint-Irenee and later get history lessons at Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive, or soak up the beauty of the charming towns and cliffs from the comfort of the train. There are different packages, allowing travelers to choose one they like.

• Trip distance from Quebec City to La Malbaie: 125 kilometers
• Trip length: Under 4 miles
• Cost: From $248

Toronto To Niagara Falls On The Greenbelt Express

Perfect for cyclists to stop at waterfalls and wineries.

Nature lovers and cyclists should take this trip on the Greenbelt Express . It is a seasonal train operating around the Niagara region, designed for those who want to experience nature on a two-wheeler. The train is designed with special bike cars that come with in-built racks. From waterfalls to wineries, there are many sights to visit, and the good thing is that the train makes several stops throughout the entire route, allowing passengers to enjoy many cycling trails.

• Trip distance from Toronto to Niagara Falls: 50 kilometers
• Cost: Around $399 for two cyclists

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Canada Train Trips

Canada Train Trips are truly an iconic experience, tour through the majestic Canadian Rockies of Western Canada or across the charming and colorful eastern and Atlantic provinces.

Combining two incredible trains – the renowned rocky mountaineer in the west and via rail, which services routes across the country – our canada train vacations can cater to a variety of budget and interests., so whether you imagine yourself rolling around lakes, curving along the ocean’s edge or riding through the snow-capped peaks of the rocky mountains, our canada train tours can get you there..

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"We just came back from our winter adventure 5 days/4 nights in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada. We had such a nice time and everything was great."

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"From start to finish it was an ideal trip for us to enjoy Canada scenery, atmosphere and hospitality. "

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"This was an A++ experience! I'll definitely use Canada by Design for our next trip to Canada."

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"Overall it was a great way to see the country for the most part. "

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Amtrak Returns to Canada for the First Time in 2 Years

Amtrak's Maple Leaf route will be heading from New York City to Toronto for the first time since the start of the pandemic.

Amtrak has resumed a key route to Toronto, marking the first time the rail company has traveled to Canada since before the pandemic.

The Maple Leaf train restarted service on June 27, traveling from New York City's Penn Station to Toronto Union Station in Canada, Amtrak announced last week.

This is the first time Amtrak has resumed international service since 2020.

"Amtrak is delighted to welcome passengers back on board the Maple Leaf, connecting New York City and upstate New York with Toronto and Ontario," Amtrak Executive Vice President, Marketing and Revenue, Chief Commercial Officer Roger Harris said in a statement. "On board the Maple Leaf, customers can experience some of the best views in the country through the beautiful Hudson River Valley , New York's wine country, and the incredible gorges of the Finger Lakes region , before crossing the US/Canadian border near the dramatic spectacle of Niagara Falls ."

The route, which is run in conjunction with VIA Rail Canada, takes just over 12 hours to complete. Like on all Amtrak trains , travelers will receive free Wi-Fi and the ability to travel with small pets, as well as access the cafe car.

"After two years of pandemic, people are eager to travel again this summer, and the Maple Leaf experience allows passengers on both sides of the border to book a beautiful vacation and travel beyond Toronto on VIA Rail trains that can connect them right across Canada," Michael Acosta, VIA Rail's senior director, commercial affairs, said in the statement.

Canada welcomes vaccinated travelers from the United States and does not require any pre-arrival testing. All travelers must still fill out a form on the country's ArriveCAN app or website.

This is not Amtrak's first new route this summer. The company plans to launch a Berkshire Flyer service between New York City and Pittsfield, Mass., on July 8, as well as launch an Ethan Allen Express train with service to the Vermont cities of Burlington, Vergennes, and Middlebury on July 29.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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Copy My Trip: A luxury train trip through the Canadian Rockies

Jun 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Ride the Rocky Mountaineer through the Canadian Rockies © Melissa Yeager / Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet Destination Editor Melissa Yeager recently traveled on  Rocky Mountaineer  through the Canadian Rockies, from Vancouver to Jasper then on to Banff. Here, she shares some tips and insights for anyone planning a similar trip.

As an avid hiker and “outsidey not outdoorsy” person, I’ve long wanted to visit the Canadian Rockies especially places in Alberta , like Jasper and Banff . 

If you’ve also held that dream, chances are you’ve also envisioned traveling through it by train and staying in some of the photo-worthy cabins and resorts nestled near mountains and lakes.

Rocky Mountaineer is one of the companies offering train travel through this spectacular landscape, drawing visitors from Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

The itinerary I joined,  Journey through the Clouds , began with two days in Vancouver  followed by our first day on the train to the small town of Kamloops. The second day we traveled to Jasper to spend the day before climbing onboard a bus to drive the spectacular Icefields Parkway to Banff, with stops at glaciers, waterfalls and lakes along the way. 

Here’s a peek at what I experienced to help you decide if it's the right trip for you. 

What’s a day on the train like? 

Overall, the train lives up to its luxury billing, though your experience will vary based on the level of service you select. Rocky Mountaineer breaks those into GoldLeaf (highest level of service) and SilverLeaf (still very nice, just a bit less space and no dining car). SilverLeaf service for this two-day route starts at $1,599 per person while the higher level GoldLeaf starts at $2300 per person. (The price depends on your dates of travel and rises based on extra days, types of hotels and tours you add to your itinerary.)

I enjoyed GoldLeaf service on this trip, so my description is of that experience. If you want to learn what SilverLeaf service is like, read Lonely Planet Editor Alex Howard’s account of his  Rocky Mountaineer trip from Moab to Denver . 

The GoldLeaf cars are remarkable because they are double decker: the upper level is where you can relax in spacious reclining chairs under a glass dome, and the bottom level has the dining car and an outdoor platform where you can stand and take photos or just enjoy the outdoors. There is an elevator for accessibility and two restrooms in the car.

Not long after I boarded, I entered the dining car for a fresh breakfast prepared by a team of chefs in the galley. Typically, half the train passengers enjoy coffee and pastries while the other dines, then swap places.

After breakfast, I returned upstairs to enjoy the scenery punctuated by fun facts from our host. The crew serves beverages (both alcoholic and non) and a nut mix between meals. 

The seats recline and are heated, which I appreciated on the first day when the rainy skies made the car a bit cooler than usual. There are power outlets at each section in case your device runs out of juice.

At lunchtime, the crew welcomes you back to the dining car for a freshly prepared meal and dessert. The ingredients are sourced from the local communities along the route. Some of the items are repeated between the two days, some are not. If you’re having trouble deciding, ask your host for advice. After lunch, it’s upstairs for more scenery, drinks and snacks, or have a read of the on-board newspaper that tells you all about the stops ahead. 

By the way, Rocky Mountaineer uses Canadian National and CPKC tracks so, at times, the train will pause to wait for the other trains to pass. However, this may be the one train where you’ll be ok if it takes a bit longer than expected, not just because of the spectacular scenery, but also because the chefs will whip up another meal for you if the arrival time will pass dinnertime. On my trip, that included a plated cannelloni dinner that was served at our seats. 

Should I bring a book or something to entertain myself?

Yes, but don't bring a lot because you may not need it – nearly everything outside the window on this scenic train ride is worth gazing upon. When you approach a notable site, the tour guide announces it, and the train slows to a crawl so everyone can get their photos. You can enjoy the views from the comfort of your own seat or take a walk to the outdoor platform where you can see it all without the glass. My favorite part of the route was from Vancouver to Jasper, as the scenery got progressively more spectacular as we moved into the mountains.

I brought my Kindle to read but never used it. It was more interesting to listen to a playlist on my iPhone and enjoy the scenery passing by. When we hit a delay, the hosts handed out playing cards. However, it seemed most people on the trip enjoyed viewing the scenery and talking to the other guests. 

Where did you stay? What were the hotels like?

On the Rocky Mountaineer, you don’t sleep on the train. Instead, each night includes a reservation at a hotel with porters delivering your luggage to your next stop. You walk into the room and your luggage is already waiting for you. All you need to take on the train is a small daypack of essentials and perhaps a camera, book, and in my case, a small watercolor set, which I did use on the journey.

My first two nights were at the Fairmont Waterfront , which as the name indicates, has impressive views of the waterfront. The cruise terminal is across the street and it’s a very walkable area. I had a wonderful walk back from Stanley Park to the hotel and also was able to duck out to art exhibits at the Vancouver Art Gallery and Bill Reid Gallery . 

My third day was my first on the train and it ended up in Kamloops. You’re here for just a short amount of time (dinner and sleep) so the stay at the Delta (Marriott Brand) hotel is comfortable with a location that's walkable to places to eat nearby.

The next (and final) day on the train ended in a cabin at the spectacular Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge . This was my favorite of the properties I stayed at. As our bus pulled up to the entrance, we witnessed a grizzly bear and her albino cub hanging out by the small lake. I had two nights here and wish I had more to enjoy the serenity of the property as well as the heated pool, boathouse and spa.

After a bus ride on the Icefields Parkway, my final night was spent at the Rimrock Resort in Banff. The resort has a spectacular view of the mountains and its famed sister property, the Fairmont Banff Springs . The gondola and hot springs (which are more like a heated pool) are a quick walk away. The property prides itself on its culinary offerings, and you can book a tasting at its acclaimed wine cellar through Open Table. 

The Rimrock was recently acquired by the owners of the Fairmont, so while the rooms are comfortable and give you amazing views of Banff, I expect to see the property announce a refresh that will match the ambiance of its natural surroundings in the coming months.

Favorite activity from the trip?

There is so much spectacular wildlife to observe – obviously from a safe distance! Thus, I really enjoyed the wildlife bus tour I experienced  in Jasper. You hop in a bus and a tour guide takes you around Jasper pointing out the different wildlife, educating you on each species as well as giving you safety advice. There’s also an opportunity to get out and walk the Maligne Canyon to see the waterfalls – a really incredible way to safely and accessibly see creatures, such as bears and elk, and learn about their seasonal habits. 

What were the handiest things you packed?

Comfortable, stretchy pants, my iPhone and a good playlist! Pro-tip: also put your iPhone charger in your daypack. You’ll take so many photos you may need to recharge at the charging stations at each seat. Also, some of the areas on the track do not have cell service, so set your phone to airplane mode to save your battery.

What do you wish you had packed?

A few people on the trip had Octogrips for their phones and I was intensely jealous. They attach to the back of your iPhone so you can stick it to the window. This will let you take photos while eliminating the glare reflecting off the windows. Plus, they’re handy to stick to other surfaces so you don’t drop your phone. 

Best tip for someone doing the same trip?

Just slow down and enjoy it. This is a great trip for those needing an accessible or multigenerational trip, but I think even those who are unable to sit still will find the train an enjoyable experience.

Pack comfortable pants and plan on wearing layers. With the top deck being nearly all glass, the temperature can be changeable depending on the weather. Bring your sunglasses as well for when it gets bright in the cabin.

Melissa traveled on the Journey through the Clouds route to Vancouver, Kamloops, Jasper and Banff on an invitation from Rocky Mountaineer . Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

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7 cheap day trips you can take from Toronto to charming small towns and cities with GO Transit

Some of these GO Transit trips cost less than $20 roundtrip!

Person on Main Street in Unionville, Ontario. Right: Person in front of a mural in Georgetown, Ontario.

If you're looking for an adventure that won't break the bank, there are so many cheap day trips from Toronto you can take to storybook-like Ontario small towns and cities.

Plus, you don't need a car to travel out of the city because you can get there with GO Transit !

Some of these short trips on GO trains and buses cost less than $20 roundtrip so you don't have to spend a lot of money to have a good time.

Getting on a train from Toronto's Union Station can transport you to truly charming places around the city like Unionville, Aurora, Oakville, and more.

So, here are seven small towns and cities you can get to from Toronto with GO Transit for a cheap day trip.

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Getting on the Lakeshore East GO train at Union Station takes you to Whitby, a town east of Toronto that's between Ajax and Oshawa on the northern shore of Lake Ontario.

It costs $11.40 for an e-ticket or $9.59 for PRESTO oneway which works out to $22.80 or $19.18 roundtrip.

Whitby has not one but two heritage downtowns with over 400 shops, restaurants, and businesses so you really get that small-town experience.

There's even Whitby’s Award-Winning Food Guide so you can find restaurants to dine at that will

If you'd rather spend the day outdoors, there are more than 100 parks, over 1,000 acres of open space and beaches, and 60 kilometres of trails to explore around town.

The town's beaches include Iroquois Beach Park which has a long sandy shoreline and Rotary Sunrise Lake Park which has a pebble beachfront and a path to the Whitby Harbour Lighthouse.

Also, Whitby is where a secret spy training facility — Camp X — was set up during World War II!

It's now known as Intrepid Park which was the codename for William Stephenson who established the facility.

You can take the GO train on the Barrie line from Toronto's Union Station to Aurora, a town just north of Richmond Hill.

It costs $10.15 for an e-ticket or $8.54 if you tap your PRESTO card to get on the train. That's $20.30 or $17.08 roundtrip.

Aurora's historic downtown features quaint restaurants (including Aw, Shucks! Oyster Bar and Bistro which has a rooftop patio) charming boutique shops, an art gallery, murals, spas, and Machell's Alley (an open-air seating area).

It's also a short distance to Town Park and Aurora Town Square.

There are over 60 parks in the town that span more than 800 acres so you have a lot to explore.

That includes the picturesque Aurora Community Arboretum (featuring a home from the 1800s, trees, flowers, a meadow, birds, rivers and ponds) and the Tim Jones (Nokiidaa) Trail.

Taking the Stouffville GO train from Union Station transports you to Unionville, a small town in Markham.

It costs $9.25 for an e-ticket or $7.78 for PRESTO which works out to $18.50 or $15.56 roundtrip.

There are shops — like Crock A Doodle pottery and Tucci Armadio clothing — and things to do — like the McKay Art Centre, The Stiver House, and the Rouge Valley Trail — around town.

Local restaurants are all over the town's main street including Unionville Arms Pub & Grill, Il Postino, Watercolour Mediterranean Restaurant, Ambiyan Indian Restaurant, and more.

If you're looking for recommendations on where to eat, Ryan Reynolds visited Unionville in 2023 and dined at Il Postino!

Also, Unionville is where part of the Gilmore Girls pilot was filmed and you can still find spots from the show's first episode in town including the place that was transformed into Luke's Diner (156 Main Street Unionville).

You can get to Uxbridge by taking the Stouffville GO train from Union Station and then the 70D GO bus from Mount Joy Station.

Get off at the Railway and Albert stop and you're in town!

It costs $13.15 for an e-ticket or $10.61 with PRESTO oneway which works out to $26.30 or $21.22 roundtrip.

Uxbridge is known as the "Trail Capital of Canada" so while you're there why not get on a trail and explore the natural landscape?

Uxbridge Rail Trail, which is part of the Trans Canada Trail, takes you to The Uxbridge Trestle bridge and through the forest.

You can connect to the Barton Trail from the Uxbridge Rail Trail and head back to town.

Streetsville

You can get to Streetsville, a neighbourhood in the city of Mississauga along the Credit River, with the Milton GO train.

It costs $9.80 for an e-ticket or $8.25 if you're paying with PRESTO oneway. That's $19.60 or $16.50 roundtrip.

You can bask in the small town-like charm in the Streetsville Village Square at Queen Street East and Main Street.

There are a bunch of local restaurants to dine at along the main street including Goodfellas Wood Oven Pizza, Stavro's Greek Restaurant & Lounge, and El Mariachi Tacos and Churros.

You can get ice cream at La Diperie or Murphys Ice Cream Parlour and then stroll along the nearby riverside trail.

Taking a ride on the Kitchener GO train leads you to Georgetown, a community in the town of Halton Hills.

It costs $12.50 for an e-ticket or $10.52 for PRESTO oneway which means you'll spend $25 or $21.04 roundtrip on transportation.

Georgetown's main street has restaurants like Silvercreek Socialhaüs, Briskit BBQ, Shepherd's Crook (a pub in a stone building from the 1880s), Uncorked on Main, and more.

You can also go to cafes and dessert spots like Lyla's House, Whimsy Street Treats and SUGAR SHACK, and shops like The Way We Were (a clothing boutique) and Glazed Expressions (a paint-your-own pottery studio).

At the corner of Main Street and Wesleyan Street, there's a mural that spans the entire side of a red brick building.

Just off Main Street at Mill Street and Guelph Street, there's a mural of the community and its namesake.

You can get to Oakville by taking a Lakeshore West GO train from Union Station to Oakville Station.

It costs $9.70 for an e-ticket or $8.16 with PRESTO oneway which works out to $19.40 or $16.32 roundtrip.

This town features a charming main street with shops, restaurants, cafes, and more that you can explore.

If you head beyond downtown, you can immerse yourself in Oakville's natural landscape which includes lakeside parks, beaches, a historic lighthouse, trails, and more along Lake Ontario and Sixteen Mile Creek.

These prices are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time. Taxes and fees may not be included.

• 8 places you can get to with GO Transit from Toronto for under $20 roundtrip ›
• 9 magical small towns near Toronto you can get to without a car ›

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