via rail one year free travel

Choisir votre langue

VIA Rail pass offer is a scam

• Published on June 20, 2023 at 17:21
• By Gwen ROLEY , AFP Canada

Copyright © AFP 2017-2024. Any commercial use of this content requires a subscription. Click here to find out more.

"Via Rail is offering a promotion where all Canadian residents can get a card for $1, which can be used to ride trains for free for a year." says the text of a June 14 Facebook post that received over 65,000 views in 24 hours.

Similar posts advertise what appears to be a VIA Rail promotion to ride the system for one Canadian dollar a year. The posts were published by pages with names such as "One year pass for everyone" and "Discounts on train tickets."

However, VIA Rail , a Canadian crown corporation (archived here ) that operates the main intercity passenger rail system across the country, stated that these offers are not legitimate.

"We confirm that VIA Rail is not offering a discount card of this nature and that this is not a VIA Rail initiative," the company told AFP in a June 16 email. "There are currently several active social media scams offering gift cards or free travel with VIA Rail in exchange for answering a survey and/or paying a small fee."

On April 4, VIA Rail published a warning on Facebook (archived here ), alerting customers to the presence of scams and ways to spot illegitimate offers.

"VIA Rail promotional offers will only be advertised on our official channels or would link to our official accounts directly in the post," the company said.

The rail operator, which offers some discount programs but has no annual passes at this time, said it was working with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to remove the fraudulent ads and invited users to report any scams.

Fraudulent elements

The pages advertising these false promotions lead to blogs about travel or Canadian tourism , but none lead to the VIA Rail website, which would be what would indicate a legitimate offer.

VIA Rail said the links attached to the ads on Facebook often led users to surveys that asked them to give personal information or pay a fee.

The Facebook pages posting the ads are not affiliated with VIA Rail and were all recently created, with a post advertising the fraudulent offer being published to the page on the same day it was created.

Some of the pages also included content that could appear to be VIA Rail marketing material, but these still do not lead to the official VIA Rail website.

AFP has debunked other false promotion scams targeting Canadians purporting to involve oil investments and artificial intelligence stock trading .

Read more of AFP's reporting on misinformation in Canada here .

Is there content that you would like AFP to fact-check? Get in touch.

Related stories

Video does not show Pakistani judge presiding over Imran Khan's illegal marriage case

Clip shows brothers in a double wedding, not a gay couple getting married in Indonesia

Photo shows aftermath of fire on USS Forrestal, not damage to USS Eisenhower from Huthi attack

Tube-shaped clouds over Australia's east not 'Severe Chemtrails'

‘The Canadian’ Train by VIA Rail: Everything You Need to Know

Last Updated: March 22, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Topping bucket lists of train nerds around the world, the four day train journey between Vancouver and Toronto (on board the aptly named ‘Canadian’) is a truly once in a lifetime experience.

Along the way, you pass snow-topped mountains and turquoise lakes in the West, idyllic Windows screensaver-esque fields in the Prairies, and an endless parade of lakes and trees in Ontario. Sounds pretty dreamy, no?

It is… but it’s also a journey plagued with delays, high price tags, and a lack of WiFi. In other words, it’s not perfect, but having now travelled on the Canadian twice (once from Vancouver to Toronto, with stopovers along the way and then again from Vancouver to Jasper), I feel ready to give you an honest take on everything you need to know before riding the world-famous ‘Canadian’ train by VIA Rail.

So, from fare class comparisons and tricks to save money, all the way to extra tips on what to bring to survive the journey, this detailed post will share everything you need to know about the VIA Rail Canadian. I hope you find it helpful!

Save this guide to the VIA Rail Canadian for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

NOTE : I’ve technically been on the Canadian a third time, but just on a day time media visit to capture photos of the different classes for this article. So yes, if you’re wondering how I have such crisp, people-free photos from every class of the Canadian, it’s because I got a private tour while the train was between trips in Vancouver 🙂 Every trip I’ve done though I’ve paid for out of pocket!

The Canadian Train: A Brief Introduction

So, what exactly is ‘the Canadian’? Today, it is a legendary train operated by VIA Rail that links Pacific Central Station in Vancouver with Union Station in Toronto.

Historically though, the name ‘the Canadian’ actually dates back to 1955, when Canada Pacific (CP) first introduced a transcontinental train between Montréal and Vancouver, and gave it ‘the Canadian’ name. When VIA Rail acquired the service over two decades later, they decided to keep the name as-is, and we continue to use it today.

Spanning 4466 kilometres, the journey takes 4 days and 4 nights, though often longer due to the notorious delays that plague passenger rail in Canada.

Long story short: freight trains in Canada take priority as CN (a freight train company) owns most of the rail mileage in the country… meaning anytime a freight train comes, VIA Rail’s trains have to pull over and let them pass… a very frustrating experience that can happen even within minutes of leaving the station!

Over the course of almost 4500km, this can stack up to days of delays, which naturally isn’t the best for people with a tight schedule… but this is by far the most scenic way to travel across the country, and a unique experience that’s honestly unforgettable if you know what to expect.

So, let’s get you properly initiated! For starters, the Canadian stops at the following stations:

• Vancouver, BC
• Kamloops, BC
• Edmonton, AB
• Saskatoon, SK
• Winnipeg, MB
• Sioux Lookout, MB
• Sudbury Junction, ON
• Toronto, ON

NOTE: For those interested in travelling across Canada from coast to coast, you can continue the journey by hopping on a train from Toronto to Montréal, then getting on the Ocean, which takes you from Montréal to Halifax.

Eastbound, The Canadian starts its journey in Vancouver.

Westbound, The Canadian starts its journey in Toronto.

It is of course also possible to board the Canadian at the stops in-between these two cities, e.g. Kamloops, Jasper, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, or Sudbury Junction, or hop on/off as I did, spending a few days in each city (so long as you book the journeys individually).

All that said, I highly, highly recommend you start your journey in either Vancouver or Toronto, simply because delays make arrival times partway through the route completely unpredictable, like that time I waited a solid six hours at Saskatoon station for my train, only to arrive in Winnipeg 13 hours later than expected.

The other consideration to keep in mind is that the stretch between Vancouver and Jasper is commonly considered the most beautiful part of the journey. I’ve heard that the westbound journey in this sense is more enjoyable because you get to save the most scenic parts for last, and you also get to see more of the trip in daylight… though beware that delays can mess with this a bit sometimes too!

Either way, whichever direction you take it, there will be great views, so don’t stress too much.

Economy vs. Sleeper Plus vs. Prestige Class on the Canadian

Now, the most important discussion: what class to book on the Canadian! This can make a huge difference in your experience on board.

Broadly speaking, there are three different classes that you can book on board the Canadian: Economy, Sleeper Plus, and Prestige.

As you can expect, prices vary wildly between classes, and even within the Sleeper Plus class because there are a few different types of sleeping accommodation that you can book.

Here’s a little breakdown of what you can expect in each class!

Economy Class

Economy Class on board the Canadian means you won’t have access to a bed, but you will get to enjoy a pretty comfortable reclining seat with plenty of leg room, a fold down table, a pull out leg rest, and a power socket (which not even all Sleeper Plus fares have… so ha!)

Plus, Economy class passengers have access to a Skyline car, which has some light meals and snacks available for purchase, as well as a dome car up top that has some pretty gorgeous views.

Both times on board the Canadian, I opted for Economy Class because well… the first time I was a broke recent grad, and the second time I was only going to Jasper, so didn’t feel the need to book a sleeper for such a short journey.

Given that I separated my Canadian journey by stopping at different cities along the way, I was never on the train for more than 30 hours, so I thought Economy class was fine, although a little uncomfortable at times.

I was also lucky in that the trains were never so full that I had to sit next to anyone, meaning I was free to spread out which made a world of difference. I can imagine sitting right next to someone for that entire journey wouldn’t be nearly as comfortable.

All that said, if you plan to take the Canadian the full way through non-stop between Vancouver and Toronto, I would recommend splurging a little and booking a Sleeper Plus fare (or a Prestige class if you’re rolling in it) because that would mean access to a bed, shower, proper meals, and a much comfier overall journey.

If however you are doing shorter journeys along the way, Economy isn’t bad, especially given the price, though the food definitely leaves something to be desired. I hope you like cup noodles & microwaved Mac and Cheese.

Sleeper Plus Class

Within Sleeper Plus Class, the main benefit is you get access to a bed! Whee!

Within this class, you can either book a berth (which means open plan seats that get converted into beds at night) or a cabin (self-contained rooms that have their own toilet and sink).

Berths are of course less private than cabins, but I’ve heard the communal experience is actually quite nice (assuming you get cool neighbours, I suppose).

On board the Canadian, Berth areas are made up of two seats that face each other during the day, then are pushed together to form the Lower Berth bed at night, while an Upper Berth bed folds out from the wall (like a makeshift top bunk).

There’s also a little curtain for privacy, if the thought of sleeping among strangers begins to spook you.

Berth passengers have access to both public washroom and shower facilities, though they do NOT have power outlets, so keep that in mind!

Here are some specs from the VIA Rail website for berth beds:

• Mattress size: approximately 5 ft. 10 in. x 3 ft. 7 in. (178 cm x 109 cm)
• Room from mattress to partition is 5 in. = 12.7 cm
• Foot end of mattress has 10 in. radius = 25.4 cm

Cabins on the other hand come in sizes for one, two, three, and four.

A Cabin for One comes with its own private toilet and sink, but the specifics are less glamorous than they sound.

Basically your cabin will have a seat and toilet during the day (in the same room), then at night it is replaced by a bed that then covers said toilet. So yes, you do indeed sleep over your toilet but let’s not think about that too much!

Other amenities for in a Cabin for One include a mirror, fan, air conditioning, drinking water and towels, pillows, sheets and blankets, as well as a 110V AC outlet.

Here are some general specs from the VIA Rail website for Cabins for one:

• Room size: 6 ft 5 in x 3 ft 7 & 1/2 in (196 cm x 110 cm)
• Mattress size: 5 ft 11 in x 2 ft 7 in (180 cm x 80 cm)
• Room from mattress to partition when bed is down is 2 in (5 cm)
• Bed narrows down from 23 in (58 cm) wide to 14 in (36 cm) at the foot of bed

NOTE: There are supposedly two types of ‘cabins for one’: upper (which requires you to step up into the sleeping compartment from the main floor) and lower (which is on the same level as the rest of the sleeping car).

In a Cabin for Two , the setup and amenities are similar: you have two comfortable chairs during the day that are then converted into beds at night (bunk style, like in the berths).

Of course, you get all the same amenities as in the Cabin for One, plus some extra bonuses like a small closet in the cabins for two, and a toilet that’s actually in its own tiny ensuite so you don’t have to… sleep over where you pee like in the Cabin for one!

Here are some general specs from the VIA Rail website for Cabins for Two:

• Room size: 7 ft 3 in. X 5 ft (214 cm x 152 cm), excluding 2 ft 9 in x 2 ft 1 in (84 cm x 64 cm) for private washroom
• Mattress size: approximately 71 in x 31 in (180 cm x 79 cm) on Château and Manor cars

There is also a cabin for for three that is set up in a similar fashion, with one sofa and two chairs during the day that become three beds (one upper and two lower) at night.

Here are some general specs from the VIA Rail website for Cabins for Three:

• Room size: 9 ft 5⅝ in x 7 ft 2¾ in (275 cm x 214 cm)
• Mattress size: 5 ft 11½ in x 2 ft 7 in (153 cm x 91 cm)
• Room from mattress to partition is 4 in (10 cm)
• Foot end of mattress has 10 in (25 cm) radius

Lastly, there’s a Cabin for four option that’s essentially two combined cabins for two with the dividing partitions removed.

Here are some general specs from the VIA Rail website for Cabins for Four:

• Room size: 14 ft 6 in. X 5 ft (440 cm x 150 cm)
• Mattress size: approximately 71 in x 31 in (180 cm x 79 cm)

Prestige Class

Alright, now onto the fanciest one – the almighty Prestige class, officially unveiled in 2014. Some highlights of this ultra fancy class include…

• A larger cabin (said to be 50% larger than the regular cabin for two)
• Larger windows (said to be 60% larger than the regular cabin for two)
• A modular L-shaped couch
• An actual double bed (Murphy bed, but still!) rather than upper/lower berth beds
• A private washroom with a shower
• A flat-screen monitor with video selection
• A minibar stocked with your choice of beverages
• All inclusive food, snacks, and beverages (including alcohol)
• A concierge w/ turndown service and enhanced amenities
• Access to lounges in Vancouver and Toronto both upon departure and arrival

I mean, look at the bathroom!

All in all, this is the most luxurious way by far to travel on board the Canadian, though it will certainly cost you (more on pricing below).

Finally: Accessible Cabins

As I mentioned in the introduction, one of my experiences on board the Canadian was during a media visit to take photos of the train for this article.

During this tour, I was very impressed to learn that they actually have a special accessible cabin on every train that is designed with wheelchair access in mind, and especially created for those whose mobility restrictions prevent them from exploring other parts of the train.

These cabins are more spacious, have a large accessible washroom, larger hallways, include room service, and consist of a bottom bunk and a fold-down top bunk for a helper (whose fare is waived).

So, definitely something to keep in mind if you’re looking for an accessible way to enjoy the journey!

Different Cars on Board the Canadian

Now, having reviewed the different classes on board, it makes sense to show you the different types of cars that make up the Canadian. I’ll let the photos do most of the talking though…

Economy Car

This car is filled with economy class seating, with a public washroom and larger luggage racks on both ends of the car, as well as a water dispenser.

The bathrooms aren’t too glamorous here but they do the job:

Skyline Car

This awesome car combines a café-style dining area with a lounge, plus a scenic dome seating area up top.

I believe there are two Skyline cars on every Canadian train – one dedicated to Economy class passengers and one for Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class customers.

The downstairs cafe area will usually look like this:

Then some stairs take you up to the amazing dome car! This is where I spent most of my time, and weirdly, it was never too busy. I actually had it all to myself at certain points.

Available only to Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class customers, this is the car where all the meals are served. I think during service hours they of course dress it up with tablecloths and silverware, but you get the idea:

Sleeper Car

On the Canadian, there are usually both Manor Sleeper Cars and Château Sleeper Cars, which have different layouts, but are both cars used to house Sleeper Plus class passengers, like so:

Prestige Car

This car is home to six swanky prestige class sleeper cabins.

Prestige Park Car

This car is home to two different lounges, the Mural Lounge:

And the Bullet Lounge:

Plus a scenic top floor dome car as well, with some seats reserved for Prestige Class passengers.

Panorama Car (Not Currently in Operation)

Lastly, just because I have this cool photo, I want to show you what the Panorama car looks like.

Unfortunately, these cars were not used in the 2023 season and before that were only added on between Vancouver and Edmonton in peak season, so I’m not sure if they’ll make a comeback.

Still, I imagine the views would have been wonderful!

‘The Canadian’ Cost & Prices

Alright, now that I’ve dazzled you with all the pretty photos, it’s time to address the sad elephant in the room: cost.

Hopping on board the Canadian is a bucket list item for a lot of people, and so unsurprisingly, it comes with a hefty price tag.

Ticket prices with VIA Rail are dynamic, meaning they change constantly in response to factors like availability, demand, etc.

I’ll share some tips below on how to get the best possible deal, but let’s quickly talk ‘base fares’ (or the cheapest possible price they offer, as shown in the chart below).

For a quick fare comparison, you can check the official website here (which is where I grabbed this screenshot):

As you can see from the chart, starting fares are more or less the same in Economy Class for both Summer and Winter, but a few hundred dollars cheaper for Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class in the winter time.

That said, you’ll still easily spend 10k on Prestige class between two people.

So as you can see, the prices are pretty steep. For what it’s worth however, in Sleeper Plus and Prestige class, your meals are all included so that’s at least… slightly better value?

With that in mind, if you book in Economy class, do note that meals are not included, so that’s an additional cost to consider.

How to Find VIA Rail Train deals

No matter what, your train trip on the Canadian won’t be cheap, but if you’re fishing for a VIA Rail discount of some kind to help ease the financial woe, there are a few different ways that you can potentially score cheaper fares. Here’s a quick summary:

• Discounts for certain groups: VIA Rail offers discounts for CAA Members , passengers age 65+ , Children , Youth and student travellers , Indigenous persons , Canadian military , Groups & Corporate accounts
• Book on Tuesdays: VIA Rail has a weekly deal day known as ‘Discount Tuesday’ where you can save some money with the code TUESDAY.
• Find deals on the Lowest Fares page : This will show you the best deals departing from your city and can help you score some VERY good discounts in off-season for sleeper cabins, etc. I was looking into this earlier in the year and there were sleeper cabins available for 50% off!

Important Must-Knows Before You Book Tickets for The Canadian

Alright, so before you splurge and book those tickets for the Canadian, here are some things that you need to keep in mind. I’ve mentioned a lot of this above, but just in case you skim read or need a refresher…

Hopping on the Canadian is the only way to take the train across Canada

As it stands, VIA Rail kind of has a monopoly on passenger rail in Canada, so the silver lining is you won’t be paralyzed by choice! If it’s your dream to take the train across Canada, VIA Rail is the only company that you can book with. So, don’t bother trying to find cheaper alternatives – they simply do not exist.

That said, the Canadian does not take you coast to coast across Canada

Canada is a massive country, and billing ‘The Canadian’ as a train across Canada is true, but a bit of a misnomer because it doesn’t actually bring you ALL the way across Canada. The distance between Vancouver and Toronto is far for sure, but it neglects some of the most charming parts of the country: Québec and the Maritime provinces. In order to get all the way to the Atlantic Coast of Canada, you’ll need to continue your journey with a trip on “The Ocean” train.

The Canadian is rarely punctual, so expect it to run late

Although delays have gotten better in recent years as they’ve adjusted their schedule to account for longer journey times, it is still common for the Canadian to arrive hours if not days after the scheduled arrival time (with delays accruing and getting worse later in the journey), so make sure you do not book any onward travel within 24 hours.

There is no WiFi on board the Canadian

I know. How will you survive???

I recognize that this is a silly first world problem, but I still want to mention it in case you’re expecting to stay connected the entire time. Where this might be a little tricky is if you need Internet to contact friends/family or perhaps modify reservations in response to a train delay.

It’s also worth noting that there are large sections of the trip where I personally had no data or service at all, which felt equal parts freeing and spooky.

This is an easy thing to prepare for though – just ensure that you have plenty of entertainment for yourself downloaded for offline use. Dare I say, even a book perhaps?!

Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class both have day time and night time configurations

This makes a lot of sense but I figured I would mention it for those who aren’t familiar with the configuration of the sleeper/prestige cabins – basically none of the beds stay in “bed” formation all day – they all fold up and become regular seats/benches during the day so you can sit up and enjoy the views.

You can only fold down your own bed in the Cabin for One

Some of the cabins (like in Prestige Class and the Cabins for Two) cannot fold down without help from staff, so keep that in mind if you’re one who enjoys fun little daytime naps… not that you should sleep through the views too much anyway!

Consider adding a stopover for the optimal experience

Spending 5-6 days non-stop on a train would make anybody a bit crazy, I think, regardless of how nice the train is, so to present train burnout, I would highly recommend booking a stopover somewhere.

Canada is a vast, beautiful country, and to really make the most of your experience on board the Canadian, you should try to schedule a stopover in a city to break up your trip.

Jasper is of course a very popular choice as its national park is stunning (and I’ve written this list of car-free things to do in Jasper too, specifically for train folk!), but I actually also stopped in Winnipeg and Saskatoon as well, both of which were surprisingly fun and vibrant cities.

NOTE: While one free stopover used to be included, this appears to no longer be the case and so if you want to organize a stopover, make sure you book separate tickets for each leg.

July and August can actually be quieter

As I learned during my tour with VIA Rail’s International Sales manager, apparently the busiest months for the Canadian tend to be May and September. At first I thought this was counter-intuitive, but hey, if that’s what the data says…

All to say, be sure to look into those peak months too and don’t count them out right off the bat. I can say my recent trip in March was VERY quiet:

The Prestige Class is the only class where you can get a double bed

If you are planning to book the Canadian as a romantic bucket list trip or maybe a honeymoon, be warned that the only class where you could snuggle up to your partner and share a double bed is in Prestige Class.

Even the Cabins for 2 are designed to consist of two bunks, so consider that if you are planning to make this train trip across Canada a romantic one.

Train travel across Canada is not necessarily glamorous, but it  is  charming

I always had this very glamorous image of train travel in my head (I blame Agatha Christie)… and while the sleeper class and Prestige cars on board are nice, they’re far from the ultra-luxury you might expect given their significant price tags.

The cabins for instance aren’t particularly ornate or glitzy, and even in a pricey cabin for one, you’ll be sleeping where you pee… but hey, it’s still a fun experience, and worth going for if budget allows.

But hey, if you’re into luxurious train rides, be sure to check out my $7000 train ride in India.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Canadian Experience

Ready to hop on board? Here are some bonus tips to ensure you have a great time.

Go in expecting there to be delays

Again, it’s safe to assume you will encounter delays on board the Canadian, so plan accordingly by booking flexible hotels, and also not booking any onward travel within 24h of the expected arrival time.

Make sure you pack the essentials

Things to pack for your Canadian train ride:

• An e-Reader like this one
• Noise cancelling headphones ( these are mine )
• Books (if you’re more old school)
• Movies/TV shows downloaded for offline use
• Snacks and drinks
• A portable charger ( this is mine )
• A comfy travel pillow or blanket ( this is a great travel blanket that zips up to be a pillow!)

Be prepared for photo opps

While they’ll usually announce major sights and photo opportunities over the speaker, they can often go by really quickly, so it helps to be prepared and know in advance when pretty sights are coming up to make sure a) you’re not asleep and b) your camera’s ready!

This little guide can be helpful for keeping track of where you are:

Explore the cars and don’t miss the Skyline car

I honestly think a lot of people come on board not realizing the Skyline car exists, so make sure you don’t miss it. It’s honestly dreamy up there, and a great place to sleep!

Bring some cash

While credit and debit cards were accepted on board on my most recent trip (2023), the system was still pretty old school in that they literally wrote down my name and credit card details on a sheet of paper to bill later. No contactless machines here – nope!

Obviously this was fine in the end, but if you’d prefer to not have your credit card details stored on some random piece of paper on board a train hurtling across Canada, bring some cash to pay with instead.

NOTE: They did not accept prepaid debit or credit cards during my last trip.

Don’t be scared to chat with other passengers and staff!

Part of what makes the train trip across Canada so special is you get a chance to meet LOTS of unique people.

I mean, anyone who chooses to take the 4 day train journey across Canada usually has some kind of interesting story to tell! So don’t be shy and make some friends 🙂

The staff on board are usually SO friendly too – many of them have been doing this for years so will have fun stories about train travel and also cool guidebooks they reference. I learned so much by chatting with staff on board, so make sure you seize the opportunity to get info out of them – they can be goldmines for knowledge.

‘The Canadian’ Frequently Asked Questions

Finally, let’s tackle some Canadian FAQ!

Can I hop on and off at different cities when travelling on the Canadian?

Yes, you are able to break up your journey on the Canadian by stopping longer at the different stops, but you will need to buy separate tickets for each leg of the journey. So, if you buy a ticket from Vancouver to Toronto, you wouldn’t be able to just spend three days in Winnipeg and hop back on, you would need to book a Vancouver to Winnipeg ticket, then a Winnipeg to Toronto ticket.

Where are suitcases and bags stored on board the Canadian?

Large bags and suitcases will be kept in a baggage car (when one is available).

Otherwise, there is some space in all classes for small carry-on size bags (in Economy, there are racks above seats, and some racks for larger bags at the end of each car).

Is there any entertainment on board the Canadian?

For Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class passengers, there are some activities like wine tastings and musical performances, but there is not much entertainment on board for Economy passengers, unless you count the little info pamphlet they give you that details the trip highlights!

Is there food on board the Canadian?

Yes! Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class passengers get all their meals on board included in the fancy dining car.

For Economy Class passengers however, it’s a different story… you do have access to small items for an admittedly not-extortionate cost, but do know that even the ‘hot entrees’ are just microwave meals. I would definitely recommend bringing your own snacks so you have better options.

Are there showers on board the Canadian?

Yes! Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class passengers all have access to showers. For Sleeper Plus passengers this means a communal shower in each car, and for Prestige Class passengers, this means an en-suite shower.

Sadly, there are no shower facilities available for Economy Class passengers.

Do you have any more questions about ‘The Canadian’?

I hope you you enjoyed this thorough guide on everything you need to know about the Canadian train. If you have any more questions about the trip, let me know in the comments!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

How to use your VIA Préférence points for a free VIA Rail ticket

How the VIA Préférence program and points work

The VIA Préférence program has changed since November 18, 2023, and it’s important to point out some important details.

Redeem VIA Préférence points

Previously, points were exchanged according to a fixed grid. Now it’s based on a dynamic rate , which varies according to the city of departure and arrival, the day of the week, the rate chosen, etc.

So if the cost of a VIA Rail ticket is high, the demand for points will be higher. If the cost is low, the number of points required will also be low.

With VIA Préférence points , you can pay :

• A VIA Rail ticket, purchased directly from VIA Rail
• Travel pass
• The cost of travelling with a pet
• Fees for unaccompanied minors
• All eligible baggage for which fees apply
• The cost of reserving two adjacent seats
• Ticket for the Québec-Ste-Foy shuttle (purchased directly from VIA Rail)

The VIA Préférence program allows you to use VIA Préférence points to pay for baggage fees and seat selection.

But there’s another way to get free luggage and seats! The $150 annual travel credit on The National Bank’s World Elite Mastercard ® helps reimburse these expenses.

If hassle-free travel insurance is your preference, the BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard ® * is just perfect.

Even if you only pay the small portion of taxes on your VIA Rail ticket, your trip is insured in the event of cancellation or interruption . Plus, she earns 5X the points for every dollar spent on travel expenses.

How to book a VIA Rail ticket with VIA Préférence points

First, there are a few important things to know before booking with VIA Préférence points.

• Please note that during this transition to the new booking system, only the cost of the train ticket can be paid by points until July 3, 2024. Until then, taxes must be paid by an alternative method. In the meantime, VIA Rail is reducing the number of points available for redemption by 30%. From July 4, 2024, taxes can be paid using points, but this temporary 30% reduction will disappear.
• If you do not have enough VIA Préférence points to book the ticket for the entire trip or for all passengers, you must book the ticket with points and the rest of the trip separately .
• A train ticket cannot be partially paid for with points. So you need to have enough points to cover the entire ticket , otherwise the exchange cannot take place.
• If the train fare is exchangeable or refundable, points will be credited to the account, less any applicable exchange or refund fees.
• To reserve Prestige Class with VIA Préférence points, call VIA Rail Customer Service at 1 888 842-7733.

First, go to the VIA Rail Canada page and log in to your VIA Rail profile . Please note that with the new reservation system, any password created before November 18, 2023 must be reset.

Then you’ll find yourself on the Book a trip page.

• City of departure and arrival ;
• Desired travel dates ;
• Number of passengers by age ;
• If the reservation includes a pet on board ;
• And if applicable, enter a discount code, company code or travel card code.

Then click on Search .

In the search results, choose the desired class and time, then click on Select .

You will then have to choose or enter several details to reserve the ticket:

• Passenger names and main contact name;
• Revise the baggage allowance according to the class and fare selected in advance;
• Add an additional piece of luggage( free for a limited time , while you transition to the new reservation system);
• See seat availability for the whole train and choose your seat.

Finally, you’ll come to the Review & Pay tab, where you can review your trip and pay for your ticket using your VIA Préférence points.

At Payment Options , you can use 2 methods of payment to pay for the train ticket and other charges, if required.

For example, you can pay a combination of :

• VIA Préférence points and a virtual gift card
• VIA Préférence points and a credit card (Visa, Mastercard or American Express)

In the top section, click on the arrow to the right of the VIA Preference points section.

This will show you the number of points required to purchase the train ticket, compared with the current balance.

Click on Confirm to validate the points redemption.

In this example, the cost of the train ticket is $64 and 345 points are required to obtain it for free. Total taxes( $9.58 ) must be paid separately.

As of July 4, 2024, taxes can be paid using VIA Préférence points. However, the temporary reduction of 30% fewer points will disappear.

Enter your credit card or virtual gift card information for tax payment and, at the very bottom of the page, click on Pay Now .

Congratulations! VIA Préférence points will be deducted from your account and the ticket will be sent to your e-mail address.

You can even save the ticket on your cell phone’s Wallet application (Apple Wallet and Google Wallet).

Other examples of redemptions using VIA Préférence points

In this example, 1 VIA Préférence point has a value of 18.5 cents for this Montreal-Quebec City trip in the Quebec City-Windsor corridor, in Economy Plus class.

How many VIA Préférence points do I need for a free train ticket?

We have made several simulations of trips at different fares and classes. Of course, these figures may vary depending on the dynamic fare, but it’s best to book in advance to get the best price.

Here are the values of a VIA Préférence point for :

So it seems that the use of points in Business class is less profitable, but it can be used to provide a better quality of travel to treat yourself with points.

Can I transfer VIA Préférence points from VIA RAIL to someone else, such as a spouse or family member?

Yes ! A VIA Préférence member can transfer points free of charge up to 5 times a year. The reverse is also true: a VIA Préférence member can receive points from another person up to 5 times per calendar year.

To transfer points to someone else, go to your VIA Rail profile and click on Transfer points. Enter the name and number of the VIA Préférence member to whom the points will be awarded.

The minimum number of points to be transferred is 100, up to a maximum of 5,000.

How do I use VIA Préférence points to make a redemption for travel ?

The number of VIA Préférence points required to obtain a free train ticket varies depending on the departure and arrival points, the day of the week, the fare chosen, etc.

You can see above how to book a VIA Rail ticket with VIA Préférence points.

Do VIA Préférence points expire?

VIA Préférence points have no expiry date. However, VIA Rail reserves the right to cancel a VIA Préférence account if the account has been inactive for three consecutive years. If applicable, the member will be notified 30 to 60 days prior to account closure.

What is the value of a VIA Préférence point?

According to our calculations, the value of a VIA Préférence point ranges from 14 cents to 31 cents. You can see the examples above.

Does VIA Rail take AIR MILES miles?

As of the end of 2023, it is unfortunately no longer possible to use AIR MILES miles to purchase a VIA Rail e-voucher . We hope this option will be back soon.

All posts by Caroline Tremblay

Suggested Reading

VIA Rail “The Canadian” Train Review: An Unbiassed Experience

Travelling across Canada by train has long been on my bucket list. What better way to experience just how big and diverse my home country is than slowly by train? This experience, although affordable in economy class, is not cheap if you want any sort of comfort. This made me sceptical that my  Canadian  train review would ever leave the station.

This scepticism was squashed with Canada’s 150th birthday and me wanting to cover as much of the country as possible. With VIA Rail being the only option to travel the country by train, I pulled the trigger. This is my Canadian train review.

Table of Contents

What is The Canadian Train?

Disclaimer:   I feel with any review where I have any sort of negative experience I should point out that it is usually because I hold the service to a higher standard, usually due to cost or similar services I have reviewed. This was the case with my Canadian Train review. Also note, my VIA rail Canadian train review is not the result of sponsorship with VIA. To support my site please consider booking your VIA Rail Canadian train tickets through my affiliate links.

10 Things VIA Rail Doesn’t Tell You About “The Canadian”

Connecting a Country

The Canadian  train is an appropriate name given that it covers the country on the very rail line that united it in the first place. To get the western province on board with joining Canada, the railroad was key to convincing them. It took 10+ years to survey and, impressively, only four years to complete.

In the end, the 4,500 KM’s of track connects Ontario to British Columbia and crosses 5 provinces, 670 bridges, and travels through dozens of tunnels and mountain passes along the way.

In 1885 the railroad was finished and began a new era for a new country. To aid in settling the west and the vast new country, the Canadian government gave away land to new settlers. The rail line was key in bringing people from the piers of Halifax to the Prairies.

Once settled, the rail remained a vital lifeline, connecting these new settlements with the world. Today that lifeline is still intact for many small communities along the way. This was evident for me with seemingly middle-of-nowhere stops where everything from snowmobiles to coffins were loaded and unloaded.

What Types of Service Is There on The Canadian Train?

Tickets on The Canadian range from Economy to Sleeper Plus to Prestige Class . The prices vary wildly in between.

During my trip, VIA Rail was offering a promotion for unlimited train travel in economy to students for just $150 dollars. The first-class offering in Prestige Class costs $4,000+ and that is just a one-way ticket. The latter does include all your meals, drinks, access to the Park Car, and a comfortable room with a private bath but that is one helluva gap $$$ wise.

Sleeper Plus

I opted for a lower berth in Sleeper Plus , the middle-of-the-road service, for a few reasons:

• At ~$1,200 it was $1,000(!) cheaper than a private cabin.
• It includes all meals.
• It includes access to showers, to the Panorama Car, and Prestige Park Car

Essentially, it is first class service minus the private room and bath. It turned out to be a great deal.

During the day the beds convert to bench seating, usually while you’re at breakfast service, and then back in the evening during dinner service. As noted in my 10 Things VIA Rail Doesn’t Tell You About “The Canadian” But Should post , the upper and lower birth are in the hallway meaning you are essentially in a walkway.

Although a bit concerned at first by this discovery, I’m happy to report that with the curtains drawn the experience felt very private and super cosy. Also noted is the upper birth does not have a window , thus a cheaper rate by a couple of hundred dollars. I’ve heard it can feel very disorienting and claustrophobic so consider this if you are looking to save.

• READ MORE: 10 Things VIA Rail Doesn’t tell you About the Canadian but Should.

I truly enjoyed my lower birth window. Waking up to see where we were in Canada each morning was a pleasant surprise and watching Canada go by while reading in my bunk was a great pass time.

Is VIA Rail Business Class Worth The Upgrade?

Rocky Start

After spending an awesome weekend exploring Kingston Ontario , I arrived by train to Tronto‘s Union station. Concerned about sleeping in a hallway, something I only discovered while leafing through a pamphlet about The Canadian train, I asked at check-in about upgrading to a private room. In a tone that could only be interpreted as “are you really going to make me check on something you have no intention of paying for?” I was told it would be an additional $1,400.

I politely passed and made my way to the lounge. Inside staff seemed frantic. The train, although not uncommon, was very late. So with a few hours to kill before my Canadian train review departed I decided to check my luggage and explore.

At baggage check, I asked what time they closed and was told not to worry, “we are here until your train leaves.” When I came back at 12:15 when our very delayed train was finally boarding I was surprised to find my bag all by itself out in the open. When I walked up to it I received attitude from the clerk I had spoken to earlier.

“You’re lucky, I was just about to leave.” I smiled remembering our previous conversation and would have left it at that but then was told: “next time make sure you pick up your bag 30-minutes before you leave or you will not get it.“

I get it. I held her up but was not told I had to be there 30-minutes prior. It was also not the warm welcome I was expecting when I was about to depart on such an epic (and expensive) trip.

Sadly, this type of “I don’t give a f@ck” attitude would pop up throughout the trip. I came in with an attitude that I should expect more. This was the wrong attitude to have.

What Is it Like on Board The Canadian Train?

I shrugged off the odd attitude and enjoyed a very relaxed and laid back trip. My days onboard The Canadian were filled with enjoying Canada going by. I would be rocked awake and would eagerly peel back the curtain to take in the view. If the train happened to be stopped ( which is frequent given The Canadian has to give way to freight trains ) I would head for the shower to avoid a bumpy wash. There was never a wait for this.

That said, the ride is surprisingly smooth in comparison to other train trips I have done . This is thanks to the thorough eyeballing the wheels get after each journey. This includes wheel levelling and grinding down any rough edges to provide the smoothest trip possible.

• READ MORE: My 2nd Class Train Trip in Thailand

I would then hit the breakfast dining car with friends made onboard followed by enjoying the complimentary coffee and view from the domed Skyline Car . With four days of no Internet, this meant no distractions. I was free to relax and truly enjoy Canada going by. From the Wheat Kings and endless fields of the Prairies to the bogs of the Canadian Shield, it was a slow yet incredibly scenic way to see the country.

I spent the afternoons napping or having cocktails in the Park Car. There I taught a Guatemalan immigrant about Canadian culture – hello Caesars, euchre, and The Tragically Hip.

This schedule stays true up until Edmonton with the addition of the Panorama Car. This makes the journey from Jasper to Vancouver that much more scenic, however, I was partial to the view from The Park Car as:

• The seats are on the upper level giving a better view.
• It’s above a bar.

There are activities onboard each day and include educational talks and performances by musicians. The activities seemed a bit forced on staff that did not want to host them however the musicians were great.

Where Does The Canadian Train Stop?

The Canadian is first and foremost a method of transportation from A to B. Stops are few and far between and never clear on how long. The only exceptions are in Winnipeg where the crew changes, Edmonton with the addition of the Panorama Car, and Jasper.

Depending on whether the train is on time or not, stops are not consistent in length. If long enough, there is a tour is an option in Winnipeg. On my trip we were running behind so I set off on my own a self-guided tour of Winnipeg.

Jasper only offered enough time to stroll the main drag and stop for a flight of beer at Jasper Brewing Company. This is unfortunate as there is much to see and do in the area.

NOTE: VIA Rail does offer stopover options and would highly recommend for those expecting to see more than the train on this trip. Jasper, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Kamloops are good options.

What Is The Food Like on The Canadian Train?

Meal service on this  Canadian train review, although a bit confusing at first, get people fed in an efficient way. At the beginning of your trip, you select a seating time which stays the same for the duration of your trip. Meals are surprisingly good, although I am always impressed when food of any quality can be pushed out on a train, plane or river cruise . Meals included many regional dishes which was a nice touch and I never left hungry, day or night.

The service itself was a bit lacking. Plates were often slapped down in a messy heap and on several occasions, I could see staff wiping off silverware with the table clothes. Nothing crazy but again, for the price paid I expected more.

The odd lacking service continued in the bar car. Although the staff was more than happy to assist in the Prestige Park Car, the Skyline Bar Car, not so much.

One night while drinking in the Prestige bar I purchased a round at last call for my new friends and took a bucket of ice to the observation deck of the Sky Line Car for a view of the wildfires in British Columbia. Not even one beer in the attendant working that car accused us of bringing the beer on board and made us finish the drinks or she would take them away. It was shocking to me to see this, again because of the ticket price.

Over breakfast the next day I got a better understanding of why the service fell short on this Canadian train review. While dining with a tour guide who used to work for the Rocky Mountaineer , Western Canada’s premier train service, he pointed out that VIA Rail is a subsidized and a unionized company. The Rocky Mountaineer is not.

Interesting and sad if that is the heart of these service issues on this Canadian train review. Also, I can’t help but feel that because there is no competition to The Canadian , the staff does not have to bring their best. That could just be me…

Would I do it again?

Despite the many shortcomings I experienced on my Canadian train review, I’m happy to say I would do it again. Yes, the staff could have been better and the trip could have been more than getting from A to B but the overall experience is something so incredibly Canadian that it only inspired and strengthened my already strong love for my country.

I arrived at the Pacific Central Station in Vancouver refreshed and energized by the trip. I rode the rails that united a nation, something very few people have done.

Perhaps my next journey will be in Prestige Class or Economy and I will have a different take on the experience but the takeaway should be that there will be another Canadian Train experience for me. There truly is no better way to see the diversity of Canada’s vast geography…and no other company to take you.

What say you? Thoughts on this  VIA Rail Canadian Train Review? Would you take this trip? Let’s hear it!

Looking for more Canada ?

Like it? Pin it!

What to do on a Tokyo Layover from Haneda Airport

You may also like.

A Day Trip to Cape point with PG tops Tours

Baylosuites – Feeling at Home in Istanbul

A Peek Inside the Toronto Maple Leaf Lounge

Visiting The Grandfather of Beer: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Tour

Cape Town on the Up – Visiting Woodstock

Is Porter Airlines Good? – YVR to YOW Porter Airlines Review

• Pingback: Road Trip Across Canada in an EV - 10 Lessons Learned

Great review Shaun! Thank you.

We just completed the Via Rail trip from Toronto to Vancouver, and had a private Sleeper Plus cabin for two. You mentioned the Sleeper Plus as being what we would call upper and lower semi-private berths. This is one type, and the Sleeper cabin for two is also very comfortable and offers private toilet and sink. This would have been good to review.

Plus comments: great food, generally good service, comfortable beds, wonderful scenery, chances to leave the train for short periods of time.

Con coments: No Wifi on board. This is not acceptable in 2022. The ride is long with very little to do, and the ability to watch movies and browse the internet would help. Also, there was no entertainment short of champagne and snacks when we boarded in Toronto. I expected some musicians, informative talks, other entertainment to wile away the hours.

Suggestions: A gift shop on board would do very well with passengers with nothing to do and some money to spend. An exercise room with at least treadmills would be helpful as walking the train involves frequent moving around passengers and staff in the narrow halls. More advertising in Canada would be really helpful. Our particular trip had many American travellers and few Canadians. I think there is a lot Via Rail could do to boost ridership within Canada and advertising would be a start.

Thanks, Marimae and I agree on advertising for sure. It would be nice for more Canadians to experience their country this way as it gives some context to how big and diverse the country truly is.

The Wifi, although I agree should be standard these days, is kinda nice to not have IMO. I enjoyed the break from my phone and it forced me to read a book and interact with others, something lost these days.

Great to hear Grant! I am in the same boat and was actually booked to repeat the trip in 2020 but then Covid happened. As far as the negative comments, it was certainly my experience at the time and know that everyone can have a different experience based on the circumstances. The takeaway certainly is that it is a great way to see the country as you point out! I ended up driving across Canada three times during the pandemic and loved it but it is exhausting. The train, not at all!

I hope to rebook soon in Prestiege. Curious, how much time did you actually spend in your room? I think that is a good factor on determining if the upgraded class is worth the price tag.

April 2022: My wife and I just completed the Toronto to Vancouver trip. I don’t know if Via Rail has changed after Covid, but we experienced nothing but fantastic service from both the Toronto to Winnipeg and Winnipeg to Vancouver crews. We booked the trip thinking this would be a once in a lifetime because of the cost and ended the trip knowing that we will be doing the trip again. We booked the Prestige room and at the end felt the expense was well worth it. I would like to try booking the upper and lower berths next time and enjoy the lounge that is available to others after 4:00 pm. I was surprised how few used it after 4. The first 3 rows in the dome are reserved for Prestige after 4, but during the day we all spread out and we often sat in the last row! Take out the negative comments that you experienced and I’d say your review was right on. No, the food is not great, but it was very good and filling. The equalizer was the view out the window – all classes saw the same view. We have driven that route in our car, but this was a whole new view, especially from the dome. As the driver I often missed things, but not on this trip. One is never truly relaxed while driving. Riding on a train is total relaxation!!!!

Can you give me an idea of the dimensions of the bed in Prestige? We recently stayed with someone who gave us a (what I know as a 3/4 bed) about 4′ wide. Is the bed this small? Thanks in advance.

• Pingback: 10 Things VIA Rail Doesn't Tell You About "The Canadian Train"

My intention is to take the best train trip there is in the Americas. If the train is late— all the better. Means I’ll be on the train longer. If the crew isn’t up to snuff, I don’t care about that either. I will get what I need from them and I always turn a negative in to a positive by getting free stuff afterward as a repayment. So there’s that.

What I need is some advice. I’ve never ridden VIA rail before and don’t know the ins or outs. There will be two of us but we can’t sleep together because I move around too much. So— I want to get one Prestige room for two and something for myself to sleep in for just overnight. Then I can rejoin my wife for daytime.

More than anything, I am looking forward to that 4 day train ride. On Amtrak, the longest trip is 2 1/2 days. And there is a big difference in comfort and food quality between Amtrak and the Canadian. BUT— I’m no food Gourmet either and I pretty much like everything.

What I need advice about is knowing what month to go for the best experience. When to book by. What car to ask for and for me– what sleeping accommodations make the most sense. $22,000 is a bit too much for adjoining Prestige rooms—although it really would be awesome! Right?” We want to begin in Toronto and end in Vancouver. Does it matter what our starting point is? We figured that we’d start at the most boring part and end in the most exciting part. Make sense?

Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

Well, the Canadian is certainly for you as it is the only passenger option across the country. I loved it for that and will be doing it again!

As for your sleeping arrangements, I would think the cabins can be configured for separate beds. It’s not clear on their site so I suggest you contact VIA to confirm this and options. There are options in the sleeper cars for 3 or 4 people so I am sure they can accommodate.

The food is good, not great. I am always impressed by meals on moving kitchens so am more than happy with the offerings. If you are interested in a true food and train experience, check out the Presidential Train in Portugal! –> https://www.thislifeintrips.com/presidential-train-review-foodie-train/

As for dates, summer months between July and September are best for nicest weather however it will be busy. The fall would be my recommendation as crowds are less, prices are lower, and you still get nice weather. I suggest late September as you will get the fall colours in Ontario. If you travel west to east and depart early you have a better chance of seeing more but are at mercy of CP rail delays. If you are really looking for scenery I suggest taking the Rocky Mountaineer as it is a scenic ride where as VIA is A to B.

Hope that helps! Would love to hear your recommendations on Amtrack trips in the states. I have only done the Cascade from Vancouver to Portland.

Enjoyed reading your review. My family and I took the Canadian (sleeper class for four), or its then-equivalent, from Vancouver to Toronto back in 1974 when I was a kid and had just moved from New Zealand to Canada, and my parents wanted to show us what the country was like. Great experience. I’d like to do it again one day…

Thanks! Curious to hear how it compares to your trip in the 1970’s. Hope you get to do it again and if so, I would love to hear your thoughts!

Would a train make me feel like Im Closed in and make a person panic . On a trip across Canada 🤔

I get clostrophobic and need lots of air feel like I panic for air when I feel closed in . I don’t have ashma .. Does a ten across Canada make me feel like that is lots air of needed . I know Windows don’t open . I watch vidios makes me panic a little

Well you can get up and walk around however you are on a train for 3 days so probably not in your best interest.

I am from Germany and after reading this, it has made me want to visit at least once and take the amazing train ride. Good Article!

Cheers! Hope you get to Canada some day soon!

My husband and I paid the full $10,000+ for Prestige Cabin and it failed to meet the expectations set forth by the Prestige Cabin advertisements. The staff from Toronto -> Winnipeg were amazing: friendly, accommodating, helpful, etc. The staff switched from Winnipeg to Vancouver and were not friendly, unhelpful and complained to us about vacuuming the hallways. While the private, in-cabin bathrooms were lovely with plenty of hot water and unexpected (but great) Le Labo amenities, the food in the dining car was not very good and it meant we spent a lot of time in our private bathroom. The wine on the trip is substandard (Canada is known for many things but wine really shouldn’t be one of them) and we were not able to bring our own and pay corkage. Marketing this trip as “luxury” while failing to demonstrate a true understanding of providing a luxurious experience left us feeling like we never wanted to return and will definitely not recommend this trip to anyone with luxury expectations. I absolutely feel that $10,000 was a waste for this trip and regret not going elsewhere. If I had joined the train at a lower price point and had a lower expectation for the amenities and food, I would have been satisfied.

Oh my. So sorry to hear. I experienced the poor service with some of the staff as noted and sorry to see that extends to the Prestige Cabin as well. I think this highlights my choice of a bunk instead of a private cabin and the value that provides. Hopefully VIA Rail sees these comments and addresses.

We’re hoping to travel this way in May 23. Have taken on board your comments. Can you tell me how the double bed was? I cannot find the dimensions anywhere. I am thinking we may be more comfortable in separate bunks.

Hi My name is Carson and I will be taking the Canadian in July 2020 Great review down to earth. I liked it one thing I noticed was Canada became a country in 1867 not In 1885 or 1886. I liked your pictures well done.

Thanks Carson! I hope you enjoy the trip and that these tips help manage some expectations! Thanks for catching that typo! I have updated accordingly!

After taking Via from Jasper to Prince Rupert (return) we took the Canadian from Jasper to Edmonton. The Jasper – PR trip was terrible. The Canadian experience was a little bit better, mostly because it had a dining car which the Via trip did not offer. That being said I can’t recommend the Canadian. You will be better off driving between Jasper and Edmonton – you will see almost the same scenery, be able to stop along the way and save yourself half a day of time. The trip is scheduled to take 6 1/2 hours which is twice what it takes to drive. Then add on several hours because the train is always late. And almost always by 2 or more hours. It’s just not worth it

Thanks for the comment Frank and sorry to hear about your experience. I took the Canadian from Edmonton to Jasper for Christmas one year and really enjoyed it. It allowed us to not worry about a car and enjoy the scenery while having a drink and playing some cards. Totally agree though, driving you can get out and see more and VIA is terrible at keeping its schedule!

Comments are closed.

More Stories

Escaping Krabi – Sand Sea Resort Review

VIA Rail Ocean Train Tours

Climb aboard VIA Rail's Ocean Train and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. This historic Montreal to Halifax train started out as The Ocean Limited in 1904, offering service during the summer months.

Table of contents

Preferred train tours on the ocean train, via rail ocean train canada routes and maps, service levels on the ocean train, the ocean train schedule, quick tips for travelling on the ocean train, what to expect on the ocean train, places to visit on the via rail's ocean train, frequently asked questions.

The VIA Rail Ocean route is still in operation today, spanning more than 800 miles and giving passengers access to some of Canada's most desirable destinations. The Ocean also offers several service levels, giving you complete control over your experience. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Canadian coast, relax in a private sleeper cabin and linger over wine in the dining car.   

Canadian Train Vacations has travel experts available to create an itinerary that's perfectly tailored to your interests. We take care of the little details so that all you have to do is board the train, settle in and enjoy your journey.

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  

The Canada Coast to Coast itinerary takes you from ocean to ocean, travelling between Vancouver and Halifax. Travelling Eastbound, you have a day to explore Vancouver before you board the Rocky Mountaineer to head to Kamloops, Lake Louise and Banff. After a day travelling along the famed Icefields Parkway to Jasper, you'll hop on the iconic VIA Rail Canadian Train and head east toward Toronto, passing through serene Canadian prairies along the way. After time in Toronto and a trip on the corridor train to Quebec City and Montreal, you’ll board the Ocean train to Halifax. This top trip gives you access to the best of Canada, from five-star restaurants to miles of coastline.   

Miles covered on train : 3,240   Days on train : 5   Nights on train : 4

Canada Eastern Rail Classic  

If you're looking for a shorter trip, the Canada Eastern Rail Classic hits all the highlights of Eastern Canada. Your journey begins in Montreal, where you'll have the opportunity to take a private food tour or explore the Old City on your own. The next stop is Quebec City, home to cobblestone streets and 17th-century architecture. Finally, you'll board the Ocean Train, travel through Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, and arrive in Halifax, the crown jewel of the Canadian Maritimes. The Canada Eastern Rail Classic itinerary features 1 day and 1 night of train travel.  

Miles covered on train : 835    Days on train : 1   Nights on train : 1  

Download a brochure

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

If you've never travelled via VIA Rail, The Ocean is a real treat. The route begins in Montreal, a vibrant city that serves as one of Canada's economic and cultural centres. You'll have plenty of time to relax, as the first 12 hours of the journey cover dinner and overnight. In the morning, you’ll wake up in New Brunswick. The Ocean train route goes through Moncton, a New Brunswick City that lies near the Acadian Coast.  

As the train moves east, the scenery only gets more beautiful, with the last leg from Moncton to Halifax taking you past miles of magnificent coastline. You’ll cross into the province of Nova Scotia usually just after lunch. When you arrive in Halifax, breathe in the ocean air and take a minute to appreciate the charm of the coastal city.  

#1 Travel tip: plan your carry-on items

Larger luggage must be checked on the Ocean Train, but you are allowed carry on items. Be sure to keep your passports, medications and phone chargers on you. Do pack comfy clothes for the ride. Most people do dress in casual attire.

Ocean Train passengers have access to two service levels: Economy and Sleeper Plus. If you choose Economy, you'll sit in a comfortable seat for the duration of the trip and have a view of the scenery outside. Economy passengers also have access to the service car, the perfect place to stretch your legs, grab a snack or enjoy an alcoholic beverage.  

There are a number of Sleeper Plus cabins on the Ocean train. Cabins for Two are the most popular. These cabins contain a seating area which converts to an upper and lower bunk. There’s also a small private washroom with a washbasin and toilet. Some of the cabins have a shower. All necessary bedding and towels are provided. There are also two 120V power outlets. All your meals are served in the dining car and you have access to premium food and beverage options, such as regional specialties and high-quality wines from some of Canada's best wineries.  

Ocean Train departures take place three days per week, on Wednesday, Fridays and Sundays. The train leaves Montreal at 7 p.m. Eastern time and arrives in Halifax at 5:51 p.m. Atlantic time the next day. That's approximately 22 hours of travel.   

• Operated by VIA Rail , The Ocean offers free Wi-Fi. Whether you want to update your travel blog or stay in touch with your family, you can do so right from the comfort of the train.
• VIA Rail shares its tracks with a freight line, so don't worry if The Ocean train makes more stops than expected. These stops just give you more opportunities to take photos or head to the service car for something to eat or drink.  
• Download audiobooks or podcasts to listen to while you look at the scenery. We suggest something regionally inspired.   
• Do pack light when taking the train. You are allowed a carry-on item and a personal item, and you can check your larger luggage.   

#2 Travel tip: Add time in Halifax

Your trip will include at least one day in this oceanside city, but there's a lot to see. Consider adding a couple nights to explore the nearby Cape Breton Highlands National Park, the wine regions, and the area's fishing villages.

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

When you board the train from Montreal to Halifax, settle in and get ready to have the time of your life. VIA Ocean Train Reviews often mention the quality of the service provided by crew members. Whether you need something to drink or have a question about the route, staff members are ready and willing to help.  

If you book a cabin for two, then you have your own private space to sit back and relax. Each cabin has a separate toilet room. Economy class has reclining seats, so don't worry if you have to book Economy rather than Sleeper Plus. You can easily adjust your seat at different stages of the journey, ensuring you're comfortable as you travel from Montreal to Halifax .  

The Ocean also has dining and lounge cars, giving you an opportunity to connect with other travellers during your trip. Sleeper Plus passengers enjoy guaranteed access to the restaurant car, while economy passengers are allowed to use the restaurant car when there's room available. The Ocean doesn't have a chef on board, so all meals are pre-prepared.  

If you decide to take The Ocean train, Canada's best destinations are well within reach. The route includes Montreal, Quebec City, Moncton and Halifax. Each city has a little something for everyone.  

Montreal  

In Montreal, you'll have a chance to immerse yourself in French culture without having to travel all the way to France. The city has gourmet restaurants, museums and world-class theatre performances, making it the ideal destination for culture buffs. Montreal is also rather diverse, so if French food isn't your thing, you can pick up a sandwich at a Jewish deli or try a spicy curry at a local Asian restaurant.  

Quebec City  

When travellers arrive in Quebec City, one of the first things they notice is the cobblestone streets, a nod to the city's history. You'd never know that you're in Canada instead of Europe, as Quebec City is filled with sidewalk cafés, historic sites and Old-World charm.  

Moncton  

When you think of Canadian travel, you may not think of Moncton immediately, making it a bit of a hidden gem. Although it started out as a shipbuilding port, the city now has restaurants, museums and other attractions, making it the perfect place to explore.  

Halifax  

Your journey ends in Halifax, a coastal city in Nova Scotia. Although you're still in Canada, it's clear that Celtic traditions still play an important role. While you're in town, stop in one of the local pubs for a pint and a bit of traditional music, or take an excursion to a local lighthouse.  

What Our Customers Say

This was the best vacation we have ever experienced.

We are extremely satisfied with Fresh Tracks - they are outstanding communicators, efficient, knowledgable, and answered every question we had. This was the best vacation we have ever experienced

Susan and William

We loved that everything was pre-arranged

Fresh Tracks made our holiday the most unforgettable journey and we appreciate the effort they put in to make it so. We loved that everything was pre-arranged. The train journey in...   read more

Greg and Mariette

QLD, AUSTRALIA

Our trip was very well organized

Our trip was very well organized. We were very pleased. We saw great scenery and wildlife and the staff on the trains spoiled us.

Susan and Kevin

Why book your train journey in Canada with Canadian Train Vacations?

Plan your trip with a Canadian Insider

You know that friendly character you met in the local café who told you to visit that well-kept regional secret which turned out to be the best part of your holiday? That's us.

Have everything organized for you

By this stage, you're already having dreams about mountains, moose and maple trees. We combine your personal preferences with our insider knowledge to save you hours of pointless internet trawling.

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.

How Much Does the Ocean Train Cost?

The cost of an Ocean Train ticket depends on when you travel and which service level you select. By itself, a ticket costs between $200 and $500 USD. If you bundle a ticket on the Ocean Train route with hotel accommodations and excursions, your journey may cost $3,080 to $10,080 USD per person. Our packages include train tickets, hotel accommodations, tours, excursions and airport transfers.

How Often Does the VIA Rail Ocean Run?

The VIA Rail Ocean line departs from Montreal three times per week, making it easy to get to Halifax. If you're wondering why the Ocean Train schedule is so limited, it's because the entire journey takes 22 hours to complete. The train also stops in several cities to switch crew members.

Is VIA Rail The Ocean Running?

Yes, The Ocean Train is still running. In fact, it's been operating for more than a century, giving travellers reliable access to Halifax. If you're concerned about train delays due to inclement weather, check the VIA Rail website to find out if The Train is running on the days you want to travel.

Can I Get to Nova Scotia by the Ocean Train?

Yes. The Ocean Train route runs from Montreal to Nova Scotia, passing through Quebec City and Moncton along the way. The route ends in Halifax, which is known for its pristine coastline and Celtic traditions.

About the author: Louise Weiss is Director of Legendary Hospitality with Fresh Tracks Canada. Having worked in the Canadian travel industry for more than 25 years, she enjoys sharing her local expertise with visitors. She is based in North Vancouver and has spent time...   Read more

Explore More Tours

Discuss your Canadian train vacation with a local travel expert

Or call us toll free

Current promotions

Sign up for special offers, monthly Canadian Insider tips, and vacation inspiration.

March 17, 2022

VIA RAIL’S 2022-2025 ACCESSIBILITY PLAN CHARTS THE COURSE FOR A MORE ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE

With the tabling of this plan via rail establishes itself as a leader in supporting the government of canada’s vision of creating a barrier-free canada by 2040.

MONTRÉAL, March 17th, 2022 – VIA Rail Canada (VIA Rail) is proud to be the first Crown Corporation to table its 2022-2025 accessibility plan with the Government of Canada. The Corporation is determined to be Canada’s most accessible national and inter-city mode of transportation and driven by the mindset that it’s time to create a barrier-free travel experience from reservation to destination. VIA Rail’s multi-year plan charts the course for a more accessible and inclusive experience for employees at work and for passengers along their journey.

Across Canada 6.2 million people, or 22 per cent of the population, identify as having a disability, and this number is projected to increase as the population ages. “VIA Rail is committed to tailoring our services to these changing demographics.” said Cynthia Garneau President and Chief Executive Officer. “We understand the importance of listening to our passengers as we work toward offering barrier-free transport, which is why we consulted a wide range of advocacy groups as we developed this plan to make sure we were capturing the needs and expectations of the diverse Canadian population.”

Our Commitment Building on VIA Rail’s universal accessibility policy, this multi-year plan is the Corporation’s first ever accessibility plan and aims to make accessibility a key component in every decision-making process. Highlights of the 2022-2025 accessibility plan include:

• The creation of American Sign Language (ASL) and la Langue des Signes Québécoise (LSQ) videos on VIA Rail’s website.
• Ongoing accessibility awareness training for all our employees, from on-train service, to customer care, to office employees and executives.
• Improved equity in recruitment by removing bias in the hiring process and making our accessible hiring policy more visible to job seekers.
• An accessible procurement process to incorporate accessibility early on in decision making before projects are launched.

“VIA Rail teams have been working to improve accessibility for years ahead of this plan,” said Ben Marc Diendéré, Chief Public Affairs and Communications Officer. “Whether it's the new fleet of trains that will deliver an unparalleled, barrier-free and fully accessible travel experience, on-board announcements, or accessibility improvements to the Ottawa station, we have taken important actions already and will continue to ensure that we work to create an environment in which all people can travel autonomously and confidently.”

Ongoing Consultation In addition to reaching out for feedback on our plan and its projects, VIA Rail has also assembled a Universal Accessibility Advisory Committee. This Committee is comprised of various groups who defend the rights of people with disabilities and it will be instrumental to planning Via Rail’s future accessibility projects.

VIA Rail is determined to continuously learn from its passengers, its employees, and its Universal Accessibility Advisory Committee to remove existing barriers, prioritize solutions and become agents of transformation to foster a culture of respect, dignity, and inclusivity. As we wanted to implement a seamless and easy feedback process, all information on how to offer feedback and our contact information can be found in a dedicated section right at the start of the multi-year plan. You can consult the full 2022-2025 accessibility plan in electronic, large print or audio format on our website:  https://www.viarail.ca/en/plan/accessibility

You can also request a copy of the plan in any of the above formats or in Braille by contacting us through one of the following channels:

• Phone: 1-888 VIA-RAIL (1 888 842-7245) or TTY 1 800 268-9503 for people who are D/deaf, deafened, or hard-of-hearing
• Email: [email protected]
• VIA Rail Canada Inc. CP/PO BOX 8116 SUCC CENTRE-VILLE Montréal (Québec) H3C 3N3

Create an account

• Gain access to free articles
• Daily free newsletter(s)
• Ability to comment on most articles
• Build your 3D avatar and gain points

• Everything in the Free plan
• Ad-free reading and browsing
• Unlimited access to all content including AI summaries
• Directly support our local and national reporting and become a Patron
• Cancel anytime.

Forgot password

Please enter your email and we'll send you a new password request code.

Please complete your profile to unlock commenting and other important features.

This is a Pro feature.

Time to level up your local game with narcity pro..

You Can Travel All Over Canada With VIA Rail & One-Way Ticket Prices Start At Just $54

You can get even cheaper tickets on discount days! 🚃

A VIA Rail train. Right: A car on VIA Rail's the Ocean train.

Planning to travel in 2023? There's no need to board a plane to explore Canada this summer.

You can travel across Canada with VIA Rail this season, with ticket prices starting at just $54 for one-way trips.

VIA Rail Canada offers so many ways to explore the country by train, whether you're looking for trips from Toronto to Montreal or want to travel right across Canada.

The Canadian, a special sleeper train offered by VIA Rail that journeys from Toronto to Vancouver, was actually named the best train trip in Canada by Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards.

The ride covers 4,466 kilometres over four days, taking riders past forests, lakes and prairies. Cities on this route include Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton and Jasper.

On the Canadian , you can book an economy, sleeper plus or prestige class ticket, with meals included in the latter two and available for purchase with economy.

See on Instagram

One-way fares for the ride start at $514. However, if you're looking for cheaper travel, VIA Rail has a host of other options.

In just a few hours, you can go from Toronto to Montreal , leaving one bustling city behind for another.

The train ride will take passengers across the countryside, through wooded areas and by sandy shorelines along lake Ontario and the Saint Lawrence River.

Beginning in Toronto, cities en route include Kingston and Ottawa.

The best part, however, is the price ⁠— VIA Rail tickets from Toronto to Montreal start at just $54, with complimentary Wi-Fi and carry-on baggage included in the price of your ticket and a "selection of affordable light meals, snacks and beverages," available during the journey.

Other routes offered by VIA Rail include scenic adventure trips like Winnipeg to Churchill, Manitoba, where the northern lights can be seen up to 300 nights out of the year.

Another scenic journey is Jasper to Prince Rupert, a train ride that takes passengers between the Rocky Mountains in Alberta and the Pacific Coast in British Columbia.

If you want to treat yourself on your journey, you can book a trip in VIA Rail's business clas s, with ticket prices under $100 for some trips.

With business class, travellers can choose from a "hand-picked selection" of meals included with their ticket for breakfast, lunch or dinner, depending on the time of day, as well as locally sourced beer and wine, soft drinks, tea and coffee.

They can also take advantage of business class lounges where passengers can enjoy free drinks and have a VIA Rail attendant at their service and priority boarding.

You can also find great deals by holding off on purchasing tickets until VIA Rail's Discount Tuesday , a sale offered every Tuesday that sees cheaper fare prices on certain routes.

If you're looking for other destinations, VIA Rail has 410 stations in eight provinces across Canada, meaning there are tons of options for exploring the country.

Already thinking of your next trip? You can view all of VIA Rail Canada's routes and destinations online.

Happy travels!

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

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

• These Canadian Train Trips Were Named Among The Best In The World & Offer Incredible Views ›
• VIA Rail Is One Of Canada's Best Employers For 2023 & They're Hiring Across The Country ›
• VIA Rail Is Hiring For A Bunch Of Positions In Toronto & You Can Make Up To $100K - Narcity ›
• Via Rail Is Having A 'Canadian Black Friday' Sale & You Can Get Up To 40% Off Scenic Journeys - Narcity ›
• Via Rail's All-Inclusive Vacations From Toronto Lead To Turquoise Lakes & Majestic Mountains - Narcity ›

Already have an account? Log in

Create an account to keep reading.

1. choose a plan.

Limited access to free articles

Unlimited access to all content, AI summaries, ad-free browsing and directly support our reporting by becoming a Patron 🙏. Cancel anytime.

2. Create your account

Via rail is having a huge summer sale and trips from toronto to montreal are under $40, via rail's all-inclusive vacations from toronto lead to turquoise lakes & majestic mountains, 8 via rail trips from toronto to take this summer that lead to breathtaking natural wonders, 7 via rail trips you can take across canada this summer for less than $250, via rail's all-inclusive vacations from vancouver: see mountains, lakes, and grizzly bears, 7 via rail trips to take from toronto this summer for under $200 round trip, these airlines offer flight passes from toronto that can score you a deal on your next trip, via rail jobs are available all over canada & you could make up to $35 an hour, 6 air canada flight passes that can help you save money on your next vacation, via rail jobs in toronto are available and you get paid almost $30 an hour to travel, you can get cheap flights from toronto to europe this summer and some are under $250, 7 tips for travelling this spring that can save canadians money & time while flying.

Discover the joy of slower travel

Forget busy airports, traffic jams and lack of legroom: rail travel is your ticket to slow down and enjoy the ride. Traveling by train isn't merely a means of getting from A to B – you'll share carriages with the locals and soak up the scenery before stepping off the platform into the heart of the action. Whether you want to embark on an iconic rail journey like the Reunification Express in Vietnam or zip through Japan on a super-speedy Shinkansen, climb aboard for a slower-paced, lower-carbon adventure.

Whether you’re a die-hard rail nerd or a novice train traveler, get on board because trains are the future of travel. Trains generally produce less carbon emissions than airplanes and fuel-powered cars, and by joining a rail trip, not only will you be taking a more scenic route, you'll be skipping those tedious airport commutes and security queues.

Most trains we take are a mode of transport for local people. Whether it’s an overnight train from Delhi to Varanasi or a misty morning ride through the Scottish Highlands, rail travel doubles as an immersive cultural experience. With a local leader to help bridge language barriers, there'll be plenty of opportunities to interact with your fellow passengers.

You might be able to fly between cities or countries, but are you really seeing them when you’re thousands of feet in the air? In a world that feels like it’s always going at full steam, rail travel invites you to settle in, turn to the window and appreciate the destination you’re in rather than rushing through it.

Up there with onsens, sushi and sumo wrestling, the shinkansen (bullet train) is a must-do activity in Japan. The shinkansen was the world's first high-speed rail and is renowned for its comfort and punctuality – the average delay time is less than one minute per year. Despite reaching up to 200 miles per hour, riding the shinkansen is a totally Zen experience with orderly carriages and polite passenger etiquette. Japanese railway meals, or ‘ekiben’, also put soggy train sandwiches to shame.

Spanning over 1000 miles between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the Reunification Express is an iconic railway line that symbolises the reunification of North and South Vietnam after the war. Weaving through sleepy fishing villages, rice paddies, mountains and cities, this hop-on-hop-off journey showcases the diverse beauty of Vietnam and is a great way to glimpse into daily life.

Are you ready to board the world’s highest railway? Hitting an altitude of 17,000 feet in the pristine peaks of the Tibetan Plateau, the Lhasa Express is about as scenic as rail journeys get. With never-ending views of snow-capped mountains, glistening lakes and vast highlands speckled with yaks, you won’t be able to peel your eyes away from the window. 

With over 160,000 miles of railway tracks, Europe has no shortage of train travel adventures. Whether you fancy rumbling along the world’s oldest railway system in Britain, savoring the lush Swiss countryside on the Gotthard Panorama Express, or uncovering the history and mystique of the iconic train route between Paris to Istanbul , there’s so much to see on an overland odyssey across the continent.

Filter by rating

Berlin to Budapest

Highlights of Italy

Barcelona to Paris

Classic Japan

Is rail travel comfortable?

For the most part, long-distance and inter-regional trains are very comfortable. They often provide more legroom than on planes, air-conditioning, snack bars or vending machines, power outlets and occasionally even wi-fi. 

Regional and metropolitan trains that cover shorter distances are a bit more basic, and because they're often filled with locals travelling for work or a weekend away, your group may need to stand for a short time. But what they lack in luxury, they make up for with convenience and great views. 

Are there toilets on board?

Yes, all trains will have toilets on board, though they may not be the Western-style toilets you’re used to. You should always bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

Are there power outlets on board?

Power outlets will be available on many trains, but it’s a good idea to invest in a portable charger before your trip in case the outlets are out of use or hard to reach. Wi-fi will be available on some, but not all, trains.

Is train travel safe?

As with any style of travel, it's important to exercise standard safety precautions while traveling via train. Your leader will brief you on detailed safety measures before your train journey, but keeping your valuables close by, especially your passport and travel documents, is always a good idea. Don't leave daypacks or personal items unattended. Traveling with a money belt will reduce the chance of petty theft or pickpocketing, and keeping a lock on your suitcase will ensure peace of mind on your journey.

How fast do the trains go?

Train speeds vary depending on the destination you're visiting. Bullet trains in Japan and China can reach a staggering 220 miles per hour, making them fast and efficient. Trains in Europe tend to be a bit slower, travelling around 125 miles per hour in Switzerland and Italy, but slower is OK when you've got epic views out your window. Vietnam’s Reunification Express averages around 30 miles per hour. 

At times, we do use local/regional trains as transport, which tend to move at a more leisurely pace and make lots of stops.  

How fit must I be to participate in an Intrepid rail trip?

Rail trips can be enjoyed by just about anyone with a reasonable level of fitness, and good general mobility will play a big part in making your trip more enjoyable. 

You are expected to be able to carry your own bags for up to 30 minutes and lift them onto the train. Transport hubs may be crowded, and elevators aren't always available, so you'll need to be comfortable handling your belongings on stairs as you navigate from platform to platform. 

Sometimes you'll need to move quickly with your bags, especially if trying to make a tight connection... you do have a train to catch, after all! More info about pacing and physical rating can be found in the Essential Trip Information section of your itinerary. 

How much luggage can I bring?

On Intrepid's rail trips, you will be responsible for carrying your own bags, so it's a good idea to opt for luggage you can easily lift and move around. Many travelers prefer to carry a backpack, as public transport can often be cramped and may not have luggage racks for large suitcases. Luggage is stored in overhead racks on many trains, so the smaller the bag, the easier it will be to lift above your seat.

Be prepared to pack light, as storage space on trains is often limited, and you'll want to avoid blocking aisles or taking up extra seats. In Japan, luggage may be subject to strict size and weight restrictions on the Shinkansen, and oversized bags may incur an additional fee. You can find specifics under the "Packing" section of your Essential Trip Information. 

What are overnight trains like?

Although the idea of taking an overnight train can be overwhelming, it's an exciting way to immerse yourself in local culture... and it often ends up as a highlight for many travelers. 

Overnight trains are clean, comfortable and safe, and depending on the region you're traveling in, compartments typically hold anywhere from four to six passengers in bunks. Clean sheets and a pillow are provided, but you can bring your own if it makes you more comfortable. There are basic washroom facilities with toilets and sinks in each carriage, but it's good practice to bring your own supply of toilet paper, just in case.

Refer to your Essential Trip Information for more detailed descriptions of overnight trains.

What should I pack for an overnight train?

For the most part, overnight trains are comfortable, and you'll be able to survive with the basics. If you're looking to make the journey a bit more pleasant, consider packing:

Extra toilet paper and hand sanitizer 

A lightweight sleep sheet and pillowcase 

A portable device charger 

An eye mask 

Snacks and drinks 

Meals may be provided, but it’s a good idea to supplement, especially if you have dietary restrictions. 

A luggage lock or lockable bag 

Will I have my own cabin or compartment on an overnight train?

While we do our best to keep groups together on overnight trains, there may be circumstances where travelers are split between compartments and carriages. In some cases, you may share with other travelers in addition to group members, which is a great way to meet locals and experience the local culture firsthand. Your leader will always be close by to help you settle in and answer any questions once you're on board.

If you've booked a single supplement, overnight trains are an exception and you will be sharing a compartment with other members of your group.

Are the trains on time?

The punctuality of trains often depends on the local cultural perception of time. While it's very likely that the Shinkansen in Japan will depart and arrive exactly on time, trains in Italy may take a more flexible approach when it comes to timekeeping. The best way to handle this is to simply go with the flow and enjoy the journey. Delays are often minimal, but in the case of a longer delay, there's not much a deck of cards and a few local snacks can't fix. 

Can I take a rail trip with children?

Train travel can be fun and relaxing, and large windows are perfect for spotting popular landmarks. A dining car, snack trolley, or vending machine can provide good respite for hungry kids and adults alike, plus, onboard bathrooms mean fewer emergency toilet situations (we've all been there). Check out our range of Family trips to see which destination suits your family adventure best.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid's rail trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We're committed to making travel widely accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We ask that you carefully consider whether you are physically and mentally able to complete the itinerary you have chosen, recognising that on many trips, you will be required to carry your own bags on public transport. 

Where we can, we will make reasonable adjustments to the operation of our trips to facilitate the requirements of disabled travellers. Many travelers with disabilities have been able to enjoy our trips by traveling with a friend or companion who can assist with specific needs.

5 things I loved about my car-free journey through Switzerland 

12 epic rail journeys from Intrepid’s brand-new rail theme

Tips and hacks for train travel in Europe

Why train travel is the one experience you won’t want to miss in Japan 

Everything you need to know about a night (or two) on an overnight train

Everything you need to know about overnight trains in India

What to expect when you’re travelling by train in China (and why you should definitely do it!)

Why you should consider a winter adventure in Russia

China Train Schedule & Tickets Booking

• International Train from China
• Select Seats for Free
• 100% Refund for Failed Purchases
• Easy Changes and Cancellations
• One-to-one Service in English
• Expert Booking Consultation
• 3000+ 5-star Reviews on TripAdvisor
• Hong Kong Guangzhou 1h from $30
• Hong Kong Shenzhen 15mins from $9
• Hong Kong Shanghai 8.5h from $141
• Hong Kong Beijing 9h from $150
• Hong Kong Guilin 3.5h from $53
• Hong Kong Xiamen 4h from $36
• Hong Kong Hangzhou 7.5h from $131
• Hong Kong Humen 46mins from $25
• Beijing Shanghai 4.5h from $77
• Beijing Xian 4.5h from $72
• Beijing Pingyao 4h from $26
• Beijing Tianjin 30mins from $8
• Beijing Guangzhou 8h from $120
• Beijing Luoyang 3.5h from $51
• Beijing Datong 6h from $7
• Beijing Harbin 7h from $43
• Shanghai Beijing 4.5h from $77
• Shanghai Xian 6.5h from $94
• Shanghai Hangzhou 45mins from $8
• Shanghai Nanjing 1h from $10
• Shanghai Suzhou 30mins from $4
• Shanghai Huangshan 4h from $42
• Shanghai Yiwu 1.5h from $17
• Shanghai Ningbo 2h from $15
• Guangzhou Shenzhen 30mins from $10
• Guangzhou Yangshuo 2.5h from $15
• Guangzhou Zhuhai 1h from $8
• Guangzhou Shanghai 7.5h from $111
• Guangzhou Beijing 8h from $120
• Guangzhou Zhangjiajie 14h from $24
• Guangzhou Guilin 2.5h from $23
• Guangzhou Hong Kong 2h from $28
• Xian Beijing 4.5h from $72
• Xian Shanghai 7.5h from $94
• Xian Chengdu 3.5h from $37
• Xian Luoyang 1.5h from $17
• Xian Pingyao 2.5h from $21
• Xian Huashan 30mins from $5
• Xian Chongqing 5h from $39
• Xian Lanzhou 3h from $24
• Hangzhou Shanghai 1h from $8
• Hangzhou Suzhou 1.5h from $15
• Hangzhou Beijing 4.5h from $75
• Hangzhou Huangshan 3h from $32
• Hangzhou Nanjing 1.5h from $16
• Hangzhou Ningbo 1h from $8
• Hangzhou Xian 6.5h from $91
• Hangzhou Guangzhou 6.5h from $101
• Suzhou Shanghai 30mins from $4
• Suzhou Hangzhou 1.5h from $15
• Suzhou Beijing 4.5h from $73
• Suzhou Nanjing 1.5h from $10
• Suzhou Xian 6.5h from $89
• Suzhou Huangshan 9.5h from $11
• Suzhou Ningbo 3h from $18
• Suzhou Hefei 2.5h from $21
• Shenzhen Guangzhou 30mins from $10
• Shenzhen Guilin 3h from $33
• Shenzhen Xiamen 3.5h from $25
• Shenzhen Beijing 9h from $132
• Shenzhen Shanghai 12h from $79
• Shenzhen Changsha 3.5h from $54
• Shenzhen Fuzhou 5h from $36
• Shenzhen Chaoshan 2h from $15
• Nanjing Shanghai 2h from $19
• Nanjing Beijing 3.5h from $62
• Nanjing Hangzhou 1.5h from $16
• Nanjing Suzhou 1.5h from $10
• Nanjing Xian 5h from $75
• Nanjing Wuhan 3h from $28
• Nanjing Huangshan 6h from $7
• Nanjing Guangzhou 7.5h from $92

Quick Guide on Train Travel in China

High Speed Trains

First Class Seat vs. Second Class Seat

Which type of train and which class to choose

How to buy China rail tickets

How to take a train in China

Weight & size limit for carry-on luggage

• Admission Tickets Booking
• Railway Stations
• Food Onboard
• Useful Chinese Phrases
• China Railway
• Railway Map
• Travel Tips
• International Tickets
• Booking FAQ
• China Train App
• Tips during Holidays

Best China Train Travel Routes:

• Beijing-Shanghai : 4.5 - 6 hours
• Hong Kong-Guangzhou : 1 hour
• Beijing-Xian : 4.5 - 6 hours
• Beijing-Guangzhou : 8 - 10 hours
• Shanghai-Guangzhou : 7 - 8.5 hours
• Shanghai-Hangzhou : 1 hour
• Shanghai-Suzhou : 23 - 44 minutes
• Guangzhou-Guilin : 2.5 hours
• Guangzhou-Hong Kong : 1 hour
• Guangzhou-Shenzhen : 30 minutes
• Xian-Shanghai : 6 - 7.5 hours
• Xian-Chengdu : 3 - 4.5 hours

Schedule of Top Chinese Cities: