rail trips in canada

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Train & Rail Tours in Canada

Relax and admire breathtaking views in Canada only accessible by train journey. With 22 Canada train tours lasting from 5 days up to 23 days, you're sure to find a railway carriage with your name on it on a route that will leave you speechless.

22 Train tour packages in Canada with 1,083 reviews

• Train & Rail
• Coach / Bus

Via Railway Experience｜5-Day Vancouver to Rockies Railway Full Experience Tour Departure

"Good tour overallAll personnel very accommodating" Shirley, traveled in September 2022

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural

Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax

Western Canada by Rail

"Truly stunning mountain scenery through the Rockies to Vancouver with guest appearances from bears, elk, eagles and gophers!" Andrew, traveled in June 2023

Canadian Rockies by Train

"This was s bucket list trip. The scenery was beautiful." Sandra, traveled in May 2022

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton with Ocean Train to Montreal

"Our overall experience was good. The Fairmont Queen Elizabeth in Montreal was very disappointing." Diane, traveled in July 2023

Eastern City Lights: Toronto to Quebec City by Rail

Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta (Classic, 9 Days)

Western Canada’s Grand Rail Circle Tour

Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta (Small Groups, 8 Days)

Great Canadian Rail Journey

"The accommodation was fantastic the meals really good and it was the trip of a lifetime." lynette, traveled in July 2019

French Flair and Coastal Charm: Halifax to Montreal by Rail

Canadian Train Odyssey

"Breakfast in past has been standard. Not use to locating evening meals in unknown city." Diann, traveled in July 2019

• Ocean Cruise

Great Canadian Rail Journey with Alaska Cruise

• Sightseeing

Western Canada By Rail 2024

Rockies Grandeur - Whistler – Kamloops

What people love about train & rail tours in canada.

We enjoyed our tour very much, the sights were beautiful, staff we well informed. A highlight for us was the optional evening photographic tour. The only thing stopping me from giving five stars was the last day felt very rushed, especially at the Banff gondola as the queue to get on took half an hour and not enough time allocated to our lunch at the Lake Louise Chateau, we had to ask the waitress to bring out the dessert while we were eating the main as we only had 15 minutes until the bus left. Allocate a bit more time for those things and you will get five stars.

Truly stunning mountain scenery through the Rockies to Vancouver with guest appearances from bears, elk, eagles and gophers! A well paced and organised trip led by an excellent guide Sibylle. Travelling in style on the Rocky Mountaineer was a memorable experience, even though we were in Silver Leaf. A class operation. A minor gripe that there was so little time at the end of the tour in Vancouver and Vancouver Island, luckily we added a couple of extra nights in Vancouver to explore the city.

This was s bucket list trip. I was really looking forward to taking the train through the Rockies and it did not disappoint. The scenery was beautiful.

Top operators

"Canada is beautiful. I was surprised that people are so environmentally aware and love walking, cycling and indulging in other sports . I enjoying my first try at paddle boarding and kayaking. Each day brought new amazing scenery . Our CEO Jeremy was amazing . He even made a meal for us in the wilderness. Jeremy took us care of us and helped make our trip memorable. I recommend this trip as you get to see the very best in Canada.

Moose Travel Network is an expert in:

"Excellent tour good communication throughout, with top class knowledge from the tour guide.

Discover Canada Tours is an expert in:

• Northern Lights

"Good tour with a good range of sites to see, our driver Alazar and guide Gem were great. Accommodation was good, always clean, some were a little bit noisy

Cosmos is an expert in:

Regions in Canada

• West Coast Canada (12)
• Canadian Rockies (10)
• Alberta (6)
• Icefields Parkway (6)
• The Prairies (6)

Travel Styles

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Canada Train Trips

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

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

Showing results for Canada Train Trips

Canada By Design REVIEWS

"Thank you for the wonderful job you did in setting everything up, and also for your courteous assistance."

Nick Florida, United States

"From day one we felt comfortable that everything was going to be special."

Mark Australia

"Thanks Canada by Design for putting together and planning such a trouble free, smooth running package."

Lutfu - Istanbul

"We cannot thank everyone enough for their professionalism and organisational skills."

Hazel Scotland

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

Ina Dominican Republic

"We did the "Rail & Drive Across Canada" with you & it was wonderful. A Bucket List dream come true!"

Rita Illinois, United States

"Thanks for a great holiday. The Rockies - awesome, Victoria- beautiful. Whistler- magic."

Mark Sydney, Australia

"Thank you so much for a wonderful vacation that created memories for our lifetime! You did a great job!"

Pam Illinois, United States

"Thanks again, we would certainly recommend you to our friends in Florida!"

Thomas Florida, United States

"It was like a Christmas tree fairyland. It was snowing pretty good. So coming from Texas in the summer it was really special, almost magical. "

Anita Texas, United States

"We had a wonderful trip and everything was arranged very well!"

Jacqueline - Netherlands

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

Annette California, United States

"The way we were able to customize our trip drive/train and explore on our own was awesome! "

Melinda - Nevada, United States

"Thanks very much to Jasmine for helping to organise our wonderful holiday from Vancouver across the Rockies to Calgary."

Graham Perth, Australia

"It was a very memorable trip and I highly recommend to all."

Cherie Arizona, United States

"I would definitely recommend this to anyone - but especially to young parents with families. "

Annabelle - Delaware, United States

" The whales very kindly decided to perform when I was whale watching. "

Janet New Eltham, United Kingdom

"Excellent trip. Well planned out. We were able to get all our additional destinations accommodated. "

Paul Williams Canada

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

Joel Yellin - Rochester, United States

"We could not have been more pleased with the trip that was planned by Canada by Design."

Carol Cevolani - Petaluma, United States

"We found our experience with Canada by Design to be most wonderful for our Trans-Canada Rail Trip."

Marjorie Stock California, United States

"We would recommend trips organized by Canada by Design to anyone who is interested in actively exploring parts of the country."

Astrid Ottawa, Canada

"It was a dream come true, I am so happy! "

Joanne Massachusetts, United States

"We had the most fabulous trip to our Winter Wonderland in the Canadian Rockies."

Mary - California, United States

"I don't know how I will ever thank you all at Canada by Design for making our trip of a lifetime!"

Ann - Australia

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

Manuel - United States

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

Kathleen Texas, United States

"We had a marvelous trip. Everything fell into place."

Anne New Jersey, United States

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

Christopher - Zurich, Switzerland

"The staff at Canada by Design could not have been more helpful and friendly."

Clive New South Wales, Australia

"There isn't anyone I would rather use for travel to Canada."

Emily - Tennessee, United States

"I highly recommend this company, They will tailor a trip to meet individual needs."

Mel New Zealand

"I would highly recommend Canada by Design and would certainly use them again when going to another area they service."

Joyce - New Jersey, United States

"Every part of our trip was well thought out and there were no hitches."

Di New Zealand

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

Kim - Pennsylvania, United States

"Thanks again for a well planned and hassle free vacation. We will look forward to future vacations with Discover Holidays. "

Ross - Ontario, Canada

"Paulina organized an awesome trip for us which included Vancouver Island and the Rockies."

Peter - Australia

"We came back with many happy memories and beautiful photos of your breathtaking country."

Johanna Oswald - Little Rock, AR, United States

"My clients and myself most definitely benefited from working with Canada By Design! "

Amanda Central Travel

" We would highly recommend Jennifer and Canada by Design for all of your travel needs. We count ourselves very lucky that we found this 5-star team of travel experts!"

Julie Cass - Brisbane, Australia

"It was such a relief to know that we could trust Canada by Design before and during our trip."

Vered Mei-Tal - Lutherville, United States

" I couldn't be more pleased with the trip! "

Marlene Schillinger - Virginia, United States

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

Jeffrey - California, United States

"We will be recommending you to others and will use you again when we return for more adventure."

Kay - New Zealand

Speak to a Travel Designer

Call +1 604 639 9868 World or Email us

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Canada Train Trips, Luxury Canadian Train Tours & Vacations

Canada Train Trips | Exploring Canada with VIA Rail

Canada Train Trips | Luxury Canada Train Vacations

Get ready for your ultimate Canadian Train Trip designed by Canada's leading Rail Vacation Specialist.

Traveling Canada by train is a truly iconic experience, be it through the majestic Canadian Rockies of Western Canada or across the charming and colorful Eastern and Atlantic provinces. Combining three incredible trains – the renowned Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail (which services routes across Canada), our Canada Train Trips cater to a variety of budget and interests. As always, booking train travel in Canada comes with the expert guidance of our team, customizing your trip to the point of perfection.

Our Featured Canada Train Trips

For the past 23 years our team has been designing dream Canada train trips. Our team regularly travels from coast to coast aboard VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer, discovering new adventures that we can't wait to share with you.

Explore our Canada Train Trips by Type

Feast your eyes on Canada with a train trip that includes the Last Frontier, the Canadian Rockies, Eastern Canada or the Maritimes. In winter, enjoy the magical scenery of Alberta with our popular Snow Train to the Rockies.

Bucket List Top 10 Best Selling Train Trips

View our Bucket List Top 10 Best Selling Canadian Train Trips, these scenic rail journeys are world famous with Canada being home to some of the best train tours on the planet.

Canadian Rockies by Train, Drive or Both ?

A Canadian Rockies road trip is a tempting option or should I take a Train Trip? What if we told you there's no need to choose.

Western Canada Trains, Lodges & Wildlife

Combining prestigious names like the iconic Fairmont Hotels, with one-of-a-kind experiences like Clayoquot and Sonora Resort you can revisit a renowned hotel or immerse in something new.

Overnight Train Trips Across Canada

If you're looking for the trip of a lifetime equally about the journey as the destination, then our overnight train trips across Canada on VIA Rail's sleeper train is perfect.

Exploring Fairmont's Grand Railway Hotels

The blending of rail travel and luxury accommodation has a long history in Canada, dating as far back as 1886.

Explore by Train | VIA Rail & Rocky Mountaineer

There is no better way to explore Canada than by train. From VIA Rail's famous overnight continental train to Rocky Mountaineer's journey through the Canadian Rockies, explore over 20 of our best rail vacations by train.

VIA Rail Canada has perfected the art of ferrying passengers across the country's vast and diverse landscapes, all year round.

Rocky Mountaineer

Travelers with a passion for historical adventure should consider the Canadian Rockies Train Tour with Rocky Mountaineer.

The Latest Stories From Our Team

Our vacations are inspired by our own adventures, be it heli-hiking in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, taking the train through a winter wonderland, driving along the rugged east coast or searching for polar bears on Manitoba's tundra.

How to Plan a Winter Wonderland Rail Trip Through the Rockies

With over 23 years of experience planning customized dream trips to the Canadian Rocky Mountains, will make your trip even more exceptional than you imagined.

The Best Canadian Train Trips for 2023

As we wind down what has been an unprecedented year, we begin to strategize: What are the best Canadian train trips to book for 2023? The answer, as always, lays in the uniqueness of the individual.

6 Classic Rail Vacations in Canada

Discover 6 classic rail vacations in Canada onboard both VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer as we take you through the Rocky Mountains, along the East Coast and over to the Maritimes.

Canada Train Trips REVIEWS

"Thank you so much for a wonderful vacation that created memories for our lifetime! You did a great job!"

Pam Illinois, United States

"We cannot thank everyone enough for their professionalism and organisational skills."

Hazel Scotland

"I highly recommend this company, They will tailor a trip to meet individual needs."

Mel New Zealand

"It was a very memorable trip and I highly recommend to all."

Cherie Arizona, United States

" The whales very kindly decided to perform when I was whale watching. "

Janet New Eltham, United Kingdom

"We had a marvelous trip. Everything fell into place."

Anne New Jersey, United States

"Thanks very much to Jasmine for helping to organise our wonderful holiday from Vancouver across the Rockies to Calgary."

Graham Perth, Australia

"Thanks for a great holiday. The Rockies - awesome, Victoria- beautiful. Whistler- magic."

Mark Sydney, Australia

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

Manuel United States

" I couldn't be more pleased with the trip! "

Marlene Schillinger Petersburg, Virginia, United States

Speak to a Travel Designer

Call +1 604 639 9868 World or Email us

Explore Across Canada

Be immersed in this vast country on a personalized train vacation.

Personalized trips

Local travel experts

Seamless vacations

Trips that bring you all the best of the true north

Watch through a giant picture window as the landscape shifts from quaint lakes to sweeping prairie grasslands, from sky-piercing mountains to lush rainforest before finally arriving at the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Our Canadian Insiders help craft your perfect trip, stopping points and experiences. There really is no other adventure like an across Canada train adventure.

Highlights of the region

Vibrant cities from coast to coast

Canada is home to some of the most beautiful and culture-rich cities in North America. From Vancouver to Halifax and every point in between, each city has its own unique character and our Canadian Insiders can give you the info you need.

Landscapes you can only see by rail

Kick back and enjoy the views as you travel through swathes of undeveloped forest, vast marshlands, canyons, river valleys and small towns, some of which can only be seen by train.

Vast open lands are waiting to be explored

Canada is a vast country and our Canadian Insiders help you decide which stops along the way are right for you. We handle booking all connections and accommodations because your trip across Canada should take as long as you want it to.

Refresh in the crisp air of the Rockies

Take in more than stunning views with Rocky Mountain excursions that will leave you feeling refreshed, re-connected and invigorated.

The full pacific to Atlantic journey

This trip has everything Canada has to offer. Landscapes move from towering mountains to prairie grasslands, vibrant cities, quaint lakes and charismatic maritimes fishing villages. Our Canadian Insiders help create the best routes and experiences for you.

Travel in luxury for epic journeys

With everything a trip across Canada has to offer, you want to experience it in style. There are multiple service options to choose from on your adventure and our Canadian Insiders help you choose the perfect levels of service for your trip.

Most Popular Trips

The insider difference.

Our Canadian Insiders talk with you to match what you love and what you want to experience with the best of Canada – from all those can’t miss sights to the hidden gems you can only discover from someone who really knows the region.

We plan and book your entire trip so you can just enjoy, after all, it’s your adventure. And, if you need any advice or assistance during your trip, we’re only a phone call away and always more than happy to help.

8 reasons to book with Fresh Tracks Canada

Canada is a vast and beautiful country, bordering three oceans and encompassing nearly every landscape on earth, from temperate rainforest to high arctic. In between those wild places you’ll find cosmopolitan cities and authentic towns brimming with culture and history.

It’s also one of the top places to visit, according to CNN Travel, thanks to our Indigenous culture, access to the Northern Lights, the chill surf town of Tofino, and the new Fundy Trail Parkway in New Brunswick.

Discover More

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• – Rocky Mountaineer Train Information –
• Rocky Mountaineer: Journey Through The Clouds
• Rocky Mountaineer: First Passage to the West
• Rocky Mountaineer – Rainforest to Gold Rush
• – VIA Rail Train Information –
• VIA Rail ‘The Canadian’ Train
• Hotel Information
• Rocky Mountaineer Trains
• VIA Rail Trains
• Private Tours
• Custom Tours
• Tour Add-Ons
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Current Travel Updates
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• 4 Day Tour: Rockies Passage
• 5 Day Tour: Rockies Passage Plus
• 6 Day Tour: Rockies Essentials
• 7 Day Tour: Lake Louise Explorer
• 7 Day Tour: Rockies Nostalgic
• 7 Day Return Tour: Lake Louise Escape
• 8 Day Tour: Rockies Adventurer
• 9 Day Return Tour: Rockies Circle Essentials
• 9 Day Return Tour: Train Lover’s Dream
• 10 Day Tour: Rockies Relaxer
• 12 Day Return Tour: Rockies Circle Adventurer
• 13 Day Tour: Rockies Glaciers & Gardens
• – View All –
• 7 Day Canadian Nostalgic: Vancouver to Toronto
• 7 Day Canadian Nostalgic: Toronto to Vancouver
• 7 Day Canadian Prestige: Vancouver to Toronto
• 7 Day Canadian Prestige: Toronto to Vancouver
• 12 Day Canadian Adventurer: Vancouver to Toronto
• 12 Day Canadian Adventurer: Toronto to Vancouver
• 16 Day Canadian Trip of a Lifetime: Vancouver to Halifax
• 16 Day Canadian Trip of a Lifetime: Halifax to Vancouver
• Canadian Rockies Winter Tours
• Eastern Canada Tours
• Rockies Golf Tours
• Southwest USA Tours
• – Rocky Mountaineer Train Tickets –
• Rocky Mountaineer: Vancouver to Banff Train
• Rocky Mountaineer: Vancouver to Jasper Train
• Rocky Mountaineer: Vancouver, Whistler, Jasper Train
• Rocky Mountaineer: Banff to Vancouver Train
• Rocky Mountaineer: Jasper to Vancouver Train
• Rocky Mountaineer: Jasper, Whistler, Vancouver Train
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The Canadian Trip of a Lifetime: Westbound

16 day trans canada train tour with via rail and rocky mountaineer.

from Halifax to Vancouver with Montreal, Toronto, Jasper, Lake Louise & Banff

You’ll start at the Atlantic Ocean and end at the Pacific Ocean. Over 16 days, you’ll see the full breadth of our great country. From the rugged East Coast to lake country, to Canada’s Prairies, to remote glaciers atop mountains, to lush West Coast rainforests, you’ll see Canada in a way that few people ever have. The highlights of this trip are nine days of life-changing train travel and four nights total in the Rocky Mountain towns of Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff. Over the course of this trip, you will travel through eight provinces, and places you would never dream existed: this is our Canadian Trip of a Lifetime.

Travel Dates in 2024 & 2025

2024 start dates - westbound.

Starting on Thursdays

2025 Start Dates - Westbound

Travel summary.

• Day 1: Halifax Arrival - overnight in Halifax
• Day 2: Free morning in Halifax. Board “The Ocean” train - overnight aboard the train
• Day 3: "The Ocean" Train to Montreal - arrival in Montreal - overnight in Montreal
• Day 4 : Montreal Hop on, Hop off tour - overnight in Montreal
• Day 5 : VIA Rail Business Class from Montreal to Toronto. Complimentary CN Tower Admission - overnight in Toronto
• Day 6: Niagara Falls Sightseeing Day Tour - overnight in Toronto
• Day 7 : Board "The Canadian" Train from Toronto to Jasper - overnight aboard the train
• Day 8 : "The Canadian" Train - Ontario - overnight aboard the train
• Day 9 : "The Canadian" Train - Manitoba and Saskatchewan - overnight aboard the train
• Day 10 : "The Canadian" Train - arrival in Jasper, Jasper Skytram passes - overnight in Jasper
• Day 11 : Sightseeing Tour from Jasper to Lake Louise including Columbia Icefields Excursion - overnight in Lake Louise
• Day 12 : Lake Louise to Banff Sightseeing Tour - Mountains, Lakes and Waterfalls - overnight in Banff
• Day 13 : Banff Sightseeing Tour including Banff Gondola - overnight in Banff
• Day 14 : Rocky Mountaineer Train from Banff to Kamloops - overnight in Kamloops
• Day 15 : Rocky Mountaineer Train from Kamloops to Vancouver - overnight in Vancouver
• Day 16 : Vancouver Departure

What's Included

• 11 nights hotel accommodation
• 3 nights private bedroom accommodation on board "The Canadian" train in Sleeper Plus Class
• 1 night private bedroom on board "The Ocean" train
• 2 day Rocky Mountaineer SilverLeaf Service or GoldLeaf Service
• 6 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 4 dinners
• Montreal Hop on, Hop off tour
• Montreal to Toronto VIA Rail train (Business Class)
• Complimentary CN Tower admission
• Full day Niagara Falls excursion with meal
• Jasper Skytram admission
• Icefields Parkway Tour including Ice Explorer
• Banff Tour including Banff Gondola
• Banff and Yoho National Park Tour from Lake Louise to Banff
• Rail station transfers in Banff, Kamloops and Vancouver
• *Complimentary Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tour of Vancouver provided when an additional night in Vancouver is added to your vacation package
• Gratuities/tip for Rocky Mountaineer train staff
• Independent Tour

Not Included

• Rail station transfers in Halifax, Toronto and Jasper
• Transportation to/from Halifax and Vancouver airports
• Meals other than onboard the Rocky Mountaineer, VIA Rail and Niagara Falls day trip
• Gratuities/tip for hotel, VIA Rail and transfer staff
• Canadian 5% sales tax

Daily Itinerary

Day 1 - halifax arrival.

Your journey across Canada begins in the beautiful city of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Soak up the Atlantic air as you go for a stroll along the harbour walk, visit the Seaport Farmers’ Market or the Halifax Public Gardens. Spend tonight in your Halifax downtown hotel room.

Day 2 - Halifax Sightseeing. Board “The Ocean” train

You have the morning to explore Halifax on your own. A midday departure of “The Ocean” train will have you heading northwest across Nova Scotia and into New Brunswick. Tuck into your cosy bed aboard the train and be rocked to sleep by the motion of the train.

Day 3 - "The Ocean" Train to Montreal

Say bonjour as you cross into the culturally-rich province of Quebec on Day 3. From there you will travel past the Saint Lawrence Seaway and in the afternoon you will arrive in Montreal—the second-largest French speaking city in the world! You’ll be spending the next two nights in a charming hotel in downtown Montreal.

Day 4 - Montreal Sightseeing Tour

Spend the day exploring this true Canadian treasure. As you get to know the city you will find that it’s highly cosmopolitan without losing its historical old-world charm. Choose from a variety of sit-down cuisine or snack on some authentic poutine—some of Canada’s favourite food!

We have included Montreal city tour passes and admission to the Notre-Dame Basilica to enjoy today.

Day 5 - VIA Rail Business Class from Montreal to Toronto

Today you’re riding in business class along Canada’s Corridor route to Toronto, the largest city in Canada. Toronto is home to many attractions including the CN Tower, the Hockey Hall of Fame and Little Italy.

Complimentary admission passes to the CN tower are included today. You may choose to experience fine dining at the rotating restaurant located at the top of the tower or get a birds eye view of the city through the glass floor. Spend the next two nights in your Toronto hotel room.

Day 6 - Niagara Falls Sightseeing Day Tour

Travel through wine country where Niagara Falls, one of the Seven Great wonders of North America, is waiting for you! Board the Hornblower boat and feel the mist on your face as you cruise along the roaring base of Horseshoe Falls. You’ll also get the chance to experience the falls from above, standing within feet of its Lip.

End the day tour with a visit to Niagara on the Lake, a pretty little village overflowing with flowers. Return to Toronto in the early evening.

Day 7 - Board "The Canadian" Train from Toronto to Jasper

Today is the beginning of your three nights aboard VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” train. The train offers a truly unique experience of Canada’s diverse scenery. All meals are included and can be enjoyed in the dining car. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to take in the scenery in the glass dome. At night you will retire to your private cabin as the gentle sway of the train rocks you to sleep.

Day 8 - "The Canadian" Train - Ontario

The entire day is spent travelling across Canada’s second largest province, Ontario. Your route is north of the Great Lakes and the entire day can be spent watching the countryside pass by. Lakes and never ending forests are out your window throughout the day as you glide across our great country on the route the early settlers once took.

Take the time to get to know the train and all of its services. There are regular scheduled talks about local areas of interest. Or get to know all about the various personalities aboard the train, you’ll certainly meet some interesting characters during these four days of adventure. Read a book, watch a movie or catch up on some writing, as there is plenty of time for it.

Day 9 - "The Canadian" Train - Manitoba and Saskatchewan

Enter the peaceful prairies of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. A stop in Winnipeg gives you the option of getting off the train and taking a look around. As you head further west, swaying grasslands and fields of gold stretch out before you in every direction underneath a never ending sky.

Day 10 - "The Canadian" Train - Arrival in Jasper

Enter Alberta and pass through its capital city of Edmonton before continuing west. A milestone moment has been reached. You’ve entered the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Enjoy your breakfast on board as you snake through the snow-capped mountain peaks and winding rivers our country is famous for. Welcome to the cozy little resort town of Jasper.

All your amenities here are within walking distance, and you’re nestled in between some fantastic mountain ranges. You are free to enjoy your day as you please. Spend the night in your Jasper hotel room before the adventure continues the next day.

Day 11 - Sightseeing Tour from Jasper to Lake Louise including Columbia Icefields Excursion

Today you’re riding along the most beautiful highway in Canada—the Icefields Parkway. Highlights include stops at the powerful Athabasca Falls, the Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake and Crowfoot Glacier. Pose for your new profile picture at one of these breathtaking locations.

Arrive at the Athabasca Glacier and climb aboard the Ice Explorer—a specialized bus that travels directly on to the glacier. Relax and listen as your guide explains all about its natural wonders. Tonight, you’ll be sleeping in style in your room at the picturesque Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Day 11 - Lake Louise to Banff Sightseeing Tour - Mountains, Lakes and Waterfalls

Your motorcoach leaves in the morning and offers you a guided tour of the area between Lake Louise and Banff. Cross the Continental Divide, and pass through Yoho National Park, with sights such as Takakkaw Falls, Kicking Horse Pass, Emerald Lake and the Natural Rock Bridge that spans across the Kicking Horse River. You will spend the next two nights in your hotel in the famously friendly town of Banff.

Day 13 - Banff Sightseeing Tour including Banff Gondola

Today you’ll be on a 5-hour guided tour through the towering Rundle, Tunnel, Cascade and Norquay Mountains. Learn about the wind-shaped hoodoos and experience Surprise Corner along Tunnel Mountain Drive.

Take a gentle gondola ride up to the top of Sulphur Mountain for fantastic views, interpretive boardwalks and photo opportunities. The rest of the afternoon in Banff is yours to spend walking some local trails, playing golf or relaxing as you choose.

Day 14 - Rocky Mountaineer Train from Banff to Kamloops

Toast to your first day aboard the Rocky Mountaineer! Today you’ll pass by the snow-peaked mountains and crystal-clear waters that our country is famous for. Highlights include; the Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon and Rodgers Pass.

A dramatic change of scenery will take place as you approach the ranchlands of the interior plateau. Stop and spend the night in your hotel room in the city of Kamloops.

Day 15 - Rocky Mountaineer Train from Kamloops to Vancouver

You’re on your way to the coast today. Dine on a locally-sourced, gourmet breakfast and lunch as you wind through the changing scenery and step out on the outside deck to take in that fresh mountain air.

Arrive in Vancouver and spend the night in your downtown hotel.

Day 16 - Vancouver Sightseeing Tour and Departure

Your vacation concludes upon checking out of your hotel. If your schedule permits, purchasing “Hop On Hop Off” bus passes is a great way to see the city at your leisure. You may also add a second night in Vancouver to your vacation package and receive complimentary Hop On Hop Off passes through Canada Rail Vacations!

Thank you for traveling with Canada Rail Vacations!

16 Day Tour Pricing 2024 & 2025

• 2024 Prices
• 2025 Prices

2024 Pricing - Canadian Dollars

2025 pricing - canadian dollars.

*Book your 2025 Canada Rail Vacation now and receive 2024 pricing for 2025 travel **You’ll also receive complimentary hotel room upgrades where available

Please contact us for additional details

Pricing Details:

• Prices are per person in Canadian Dollars and are subject to an additional 5% Canadian sales tax.
• Prices are based on double occupancy. For single and triple sharing, please request a quote .
• To qualify for any current Specials , please request a quote .
• Upgrades to Premium hotel rooms (5 stars) and Private Tours/Transfers are available. Please  request a quote .

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Rail Trips Across Canada

One of the greatest adventures you can take is one of our iconic rail trips across Canada departing from Vancouver to Toronto and Montreal to Halifax.

We’ve tried, tested and perfected these journeys to include some of the most stunning scenery in the country, from the mountains and ocean of western canada through to the prairies and eclectic towns of the east., complete with customized aspects to suit your own unique style, sit back in a glass-domed viewing car by day and sink into sleep in your cozy quarters by night – more gourmet meals and picturesque views will be waiting again tomorrow..

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Canada Rail Vacations REVIEWS

"Thank you for the wonderful job you did in setting everything up, and also for your courteous assistance."

Nick Florida, United States

"From day one we felt comfortable that everything was going to be special."

Mark Australia

"Thanks Canada Rail Vacations for putting together and planning such a trouble free, smooth running package."

Lutfu Istanbul

"We cannot thank everyone enough for their professionalism and organisational skills."

Hazel Scotland

"We did the "Rail & Drive Across Canada" with you & it was wonderful. A Bucket List dream come true!"

Rita Illinois, United States

"Thanks for a great holiday. The Rockies - awesome, Victoria- beautiful. Whistler- magic."

Mark Sydney, Australia

"Thank you so much for a wonderful vacation that created memories for our lifetime! You did a great job!"

Pam Illinois, United States

"Thanks again, we would certainly recommend you to our friends in Florida!"

Thomas Florida, United States

"It was like a Christmas tree fairyland. It was snowing pretty good. So coming from Texas in the summer it was really special, almost magical. "

Anita Texas, United States

"We had a wonderful trip and everything was arranged very well!"

Jacqueline Netherlands

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

Annette California, United States

"The way we were able to customize our trip drive/train and explore on our own was awesome! "

Melinda Nevada, United States

"Thanks very much to Jasmine for helping to organise our wonderful holiday from Vancouver across the Rockies to Calgary."

Graham Perth, Australia

"It was a very memorable trip and I highly recommend to all."

Cherie Arizona, United States

"I would definitely recommend this to anyone - but especially to young parents with families. "

Annabelle Delaware, United States

" The whales very kindly decided to perform when I was whale watching. "

Janet New Eltham, United Kingdom

"Excellent trip. Well planned out. We were able to get all our additional destinations accommodated. "

Paul Williams Canada

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

Joel Yellin Rochester , United States

"We could not have been more pleased with the trip that was planned by Canada by Design."

Carol Cevolani Petaluma, United States

"We found our experience with Canada by Design to be most wonderful for our Trans-Canada Rail Trip."

Marjorie Stock California, United States

"We would recommend trips organized by Canada Rail Vacationsto anyone who is interested in actively exploring parts of the country."

Astrid Ottawa, Canada

"We had the most fabulous trip to our Winter Wonderland in the Canadian Rockies."

Mary California, United States

"I don't know how I will ever thank you all at Canada by Design for making our trip of a lifetime!"

Ann Australia

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

Manuel United States

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

Kathleen Texas, United States

"We had a marvelous trip. Everything fell into place."

Anne New Jersey, United States

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

Christopher Zurich, Switzerland

"There isn't anyone I would rather use for travel to Canada."

Emily Tennessee, United States

"I highly recommend this company, They will tailor a trip to meet individual needs."

Mel New Zealand

"I would highly recommend Canada by Design and would certainly use them again when going to another area they service."

Joyce New Jersey, United States

"Every part of our trip was well thought out and there were no hitches."

Di New Zealand

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

Kim Pennsylvania, United States

"Thanks again for a well planned and hassle free vacation. We will look forward to future vacations with Discover Holidays. "

Ross Ontario, Canada

"Paulina organized an awesome trip for us which included Vancouver Island and the Rockies."

Peter Australia

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

Lorraine Squamish, Canada

"We came back with many happy memories and beautiful photos of your breathtaking country."

Johanna Oswald Little Rock, AR, United States

"My clients and myself most definitely benefited from working with Canada By Design! "

Amanda Central Travel

" We would highly recommend Jennifer and Canada by Design for all of your travel needs. We count ourselves very lucky that we found this 5-star team of travel experts!"

Julie Cass Brisbane, Australia

"It was such a relief to know that we could trust Canada by Design before and during our trip."

Vered Mei-Tal Lutherville, United States

" I couldn't be more pleased with the trip! "

Marlene Schillinger Petersburg, Virginia, United States

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

Jeffrey California, United States

"We will be recommending you to others and will use you again when we return for more adventure."

Kay New Zealand

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Canada Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Canada is often skipped over on many round-the-world trips owing to its proximity to the US, poor flight connections, and few budget cross-country travel options.

But those people miss out on so much! Canada is one of the best countries in the world for RVing and road trips and it’s brimming with outdoor activities for all levels. Backpacking Canada is an amazing experience.

I love my friendly neighbor to the north and believe Canada is a really underrated destination. There’s a reason everyone around the world loves Canadians after all.

To top it all off, it’s also easy to get a working holiday visa here so you can stay longer and make money while you explore (there are huge seasonal industries across the country).

This travel guide to Canada can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this friendly natural wonderland!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Canada

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in canada.

1. Tour Toronto

Toronto is often considered the most multicultural city in the world, as over half of the city’s population is foreign-born. It’s an awesome, hip, artsy city. Don’t miss Kensington Market for good eats and cool shops, and there are plenty of tasty eats to be found in the city’s massive Chinatown as well. If you want to play tourist, head up the CN Tower for the best views of the city. For a bit of swimming in the summer, check out some of Canada’s easily accessible beaches on Lake Ontario where you can go kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding, and more. And if you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the nearby amusement park Wonderland.

2. Explore Jasper and the Columbia Icefield

The Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper in Western Canada and is one of the most scenic drives in the country (if not the world). Stop along the way at the Columbia Icefield, an enormous icefield that feeds into eight glaciers. You can travel onto the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier where you can hike around and even drink from the crystal-clear icy glacial water. If you’re not squeamish about heights, walk out to the cliff-top glass-floored Skywalk to get a spectacular panorama of the entire area. It’s easy to reach via an enormous bus or opt for a hiking tour where you can walk the glacier. There’s even a restaurant at the top that’s a bit expensive but worth at least a coffee for the view.

3. Road trip the Maritimes

Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick make up Canada’s east coast. If you want to spend your days hiking, relaxing by the ocean, and whale watching, this is the place to do it. Nova Scotia is sometimes considered the most beautiful province with rolling hills leading to lush green coastal cliffs over frothy shores. There are colorful little fishing villages like Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site considered one of the “Prettiest Painted Places in Canada.” It boasts delicious fresh seafood and friendly locals to chat with. Be sure to set aside a few days for an incredible road trip on the 298-kilometer (185-mile) Cabot Trail around Cape Breton and spend in the Highlands National Park where you can hike, camp, or fish. The east coast is stunning and sees very few tourists compared to other areas of the country.

4. Hang out in Montreal

Montreal offers a look at the French side of the country. Old Montreal is thriving with culture and a mix of old and new architecture within its European-style cobblestone streets, the Notre Dame Cathedral, museums, and river cruises. The other side of Montreal is extremely modern with an underground city and mall, funky jazz clubs, and amazing cuisine, which make this the hippest and most romantic city in the country. It’s also cheaper than most of the other large cities in Canada. Don’t forget to try the poutine and bagels when you visit!

5. Have fun in Vancouver

Other things to see and do in canada, 1. celebrate the calgary stampede.

During July, over 1 million people descend on Calgary for this multi-day rodeo, drinking festival, and carnival where everyone gets to be a cowboy. It’s a lot of fun, and you’ll meet tons of people from around the world. It’s one of Canada’s premier events so book early — prices rise and accommodation disappears fast! Also, wear cowboy boots and a hat if you want to fit in.

2. Hit the slopes

The mountains in Canada offer great skiing and snowboarding during the winter. Banff is a popular mountain town known for its excellent trails. It’s quite busy during the winter as locals and visitors alike hit the slopes, but it’s popular for a reason. While Banff is the most popular place to go, there are tons of other great skiing destinations in the country. Sunshine Village, Whistler Blackcomb, Lake Louise, Kicking Horse, and Mont Tremblant are just a few to check out (they stretch from British Columbia to Quebec so you’ve got lots of choices).

3. Discover Vancouver Island

Take a few days off from Vancouver to explore nearby Vancouver Island . Eat delicious seafood, hike, spot some whales (lots of orcas live near here), shop, and lounge on the beach. This is a place to just sit and relax. Since it is so close to Vancouver, it’s a popular getaway with the locals during the summer. Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is located on the island. It’s a quiet but gorgeous little city worth a couple days of exploring. From here you can also visit places like Tofino, where the bustling surf community has evolved into a fun hippie town. If you’d rather hike an incredible yet challenging trail, the West Coast Trail is famous for its rugged beach and rainforest trails, man-made ladders through the trees, and rare wildlife.

4. Hike the rainforest

Hike the Pacific Rim National Park for a wonderful look at some temperate rainforests on Vancouver Island. It’s one of the most popular parks in Canada, home to Western Red Cedars, Pacific Silver Firs, and tons of wildlife including deer, wolves, bears, and cougars. The Long Beach area is one of the most accessible places for hiking, but the sand dunes behind Wickaninnish Beach on the South Beach Trail are also worth the trek.

5. Explore Calgary

Often skipped over by travelers since it’s not on the coast, Calgary actually has a lot to offer when it comes to free and low-cost activities. Have a picnic in one of its many parks, go rollerblading, watch a hockey game, or head up to the top of the surrounding peaks. There’s great hiking, kayaking, skiing, water rafting, and camping here and you can easily rent a bike and explore the city via its many bike paths. Although it’s been long dismissed as an oil town, it’s one of the liveliest cities in Canada.

6. Visit the galleries of Toronto

Toronto has some of the best museums and galleries in the country, so take a day or two to admire the art of the city. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) are the two most famous art museums, but there are a plethora of smaller, specialty galleries too, like the Textiles Museum of Canada and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Galleries often offer discounts on certain days of the week, so check before you go to save some cash.

7. Take a road trip

This huge country is best explored by car or RV. It’s the ideal way to find yourself in tiny little towns, majestic mountains, amazing countryside, and plenty of off-the-beaten-track places. If you have a lot of time, this is your best and cheapest option to see the country. The Trans-Canada Highway stretches from coast to coast, making a road trip relatively easy to plan. Just keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable (especially in the winter). Of course, you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and you’ll want to be prepared for long stretches of driving without any rest stops or gas stations. However, it’s worth it — the changing landscapes and scenic vistas are out of this world! you could easily spend weeks or months touring the country and still barely scratch the surface. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

8. Stroll the nation’s capital

Ottawa is a very easy city to explore on foot. Home to museums, art galleries, and plenty of shops, it’s a charming city worth visiting for a couple days. You can take a tour of Parliament Hill (the historic buildings where the Canadian government operates) or cross the Ottawa River and visit Quebec (the great Museum of Civilization is just across the bridge). The Canadian War Museum and the National Gallery of Canada are two must-visit museums in Ottawa. Also, don’t miss the busy Byward Market, and be sure to check out the craft breweries in Westboro. Try a beavertail (a sweet pastry with sugary toppings) when you’re here!

9. Get off the beaten path in Nova Scotia

The locals boast that Nova Scotia is home to the friendliest people in Canada. They might be right. That, combined with over 100 beaches, picturesque lighthouses, great sailing, mouth-watering seafood (this area of Canada is the main fishing region), and a marvelous coastline, makes Nova Scotia an amazing place to visit in Canada. Plus, the province doesn’t see lots of tourists so it’s far less crowded and unspoiled compared to other regions. It’s perfect for road trips and camping.

10. Admire Quebec City

Quebec City’s Old Town offers cobblestone walkways, well-preserved 17th-century architecture, and the only North American fortress, the Citadel. The historical Quartier Petit Champlain is stunning and gives you an authentic French feeling with little cheese shops, bistros, creperies, and boutiques. It’s especially magical in December as it’s fully decorated with twinkling lights, snow-covered canopies, and lined with beautiful Christmas trees. In the warm weather, you can easily lose track of time wandering the streets admiring the flowers everywhere and colorful window shutters and storefronts. Don’t forget to sample the local ice ciders, head out for drinks on Grande Allée, and explore the streets below the stunning Château Frontenac.

11. Visit Kelowna

Warm in the summer and mild in the winter, this glacial valley has some of the best weather in the entire country. It’s no wonder that this is where many Canadians spend their vacations. There’s a marina and a few golf courses, not to mention that the Okanagan Valley is home to Canada’s best vineyards and wineries (a four-hour wine tour costs around 125 CAD). In the summer, Canadians rent fancy houseboats complete with waterslides to vacation on nearby Okanagan Lake. Overall, this is just a gorgeous slice of the country that shouldn’t be missed.

12. Head north to Churchill, Manitoba

This might be a small town in the middle of nowhere, but it also happens to be the Polar Bear Capital of the World, the Beluga Whale Capital of the World, and one of the best places to view the Aurora Borealis. You can ride in a tundra buggy (a special bus raised on giant wheels to keep you out of reach from polar bears) and head out on the open plains to see polar bears in their natural habitats. Mother nature is alive and thriving here. Day tours in a tundra buggy during the summer start at around 250 CAD, including lunch.

13. See the iconic Niagara Falls

This is one of the most visited attractions on the entire continent. You can never imagine how big it is until you see it up close (you never envision so much mist either). To see it up close, on a boat tour and head out into the waterfalls (be prepared to get soaked). Walks runs a daily boat tour that has exclusive access to the best spots and includes access to behind the falls (tours are 107 CAD). The town itself is touristy and cheesy so don’t spend more than a day or two (it’s fun for kids though).

14. Get lost in the Yukon

The Yukon is the perfect place to get your nature fix. The chances of seeing a bear, elk, or deer are incredibly high (or you can tour the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where you’re guaranteed to see them). Go hiking in Tombstone Territorial Park, soak in a mineral hot pool at the Takhini Hot Springs, or swing by the Sign Post Forest with its unique collection of over 77,000 signposts. Hardly anyone ever visits the Yukon as visitors tend to stick to the major cities in the south of the country. Because of that, you’ll find yourself surrounded by unspoiled nature.

  For more information on specific cities in Canada, check out these guides:

• Calgary Travel Guide
• Montreal Travel Guide
• Nova Scotia Travel Guide
• Ottawa Travel Guide
• Quebec City Travel Guide
• Toronto Travel Guide
• Vancouver Travel Guide
• Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Canada Travel Costs

Accommodation – Rates vary a lot depending on what city you’re staying in. On average, you’ll end up paying 35-45 CAD per night for a dorm room at a hostel. Expect to pay at least 90-120 CAD for a budget hotel room. Prices rise drastically in larger cities (notably Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa).

Airbnb is available across the country, rivaling budget hotels for price and convenience. Expect to pay an average of 60-90 CAD per night for a private room, while entire homes/apartments start around 100 CAD. Keep in mind that many smaller towns won’t have many options. However, there are usually locally owned hotels or motels that are generally quite cheap. Also, Airbnb prices can double (or triple) when not booked in advance so book early.

If camping is your thing, you’ll have plenty of options across the country. Prices vary depending on the grounds but expect to pay between 25-35 CAD per night for a basic pitch for two people. Many of the major national and provincial campgrounds sell out early in the summer, so be sure to book in advance during the peak season (June-August).

Food – Overall, the food here is a collage of dishes from other cultures, owing to the country’s diverse history of immigration. On the coasts, seafood is king while the prairies have more of a meat and potatoes diet. Be sure to sample some of Canada’s famous staples like poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds), beaver tails (fried dough with maple syrup), Canadian bacon, and the oddly tasty ketchup chips.

Overall, food can be inexpensive if you stick to cooking for yourself, eating street food, and dining at cheap fast-food places. Cheap sandwich shops and fast food are your best bet, usually costing less than 13 CAD per meal.

Pizzas cost 15-20 CAD while Asian food is usually 10-15 CAD for a main dish.

A meal out at a casual restaurant costs 20-35 CAD for a main dish and a drink. Casual fine dining costs double that.

Beer is around 7 CAD while a latte/cappuccino is around 4.60 CAD. Bottled water costs 2 CAD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay 50-75 CAD per week for groceries. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, veggies, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Canada Suggested Budgets

How much does it cost to visit Canada? Well, it’s complicated. How much you spend largely depends on where in Canada you’re going to visit. For example, Canada’s biggest cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver are considerably more expensive than the smaller ones (like Halifax, St. John’s, and Quebec City). The rural areas are even cheaper but getting around costs more as you may need to rent a car or take expensive buses.

On a backpacking budget, you should plan to spend around 70 CAD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all your meals, using public transportation, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free activities like hiking and enjoying nature.

On a mid-range budget of 185 CAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, take buses between destinations, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, and do more paid activities like visiting museums or taking a food or wine tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 310 CAD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though, the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CAD.

Canada Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Given the size of Canada, there are plenty of ways to save money when you travel, but it varies by region (as I’ve been repeating). The general tips below can help but for specific tips visit our city guides!

• Stay with a local – As Canada is not the most budget-friendly destination owing to its inconvenient size, you’ll be able to cut down on your costs by using Couchsurfing . While not huge in smaller towns, you won’t have a hard time finding a host in the major cities. Just be sure to plan ahead during the summer as that is prime tourist season and it’s much harder to find a host then.
• Enjoy outdoor summer festivals – Since Canadians are stuck indoors all winter, they love to make the most of hot days by packing in lots of festivals into the short summer. Many of these, like Heritage Days (Edmonton), Kits Days (Vancouver), and Caribana (Toronto), are free. Check out upcoming events online by visiting the local tourism board’s website.
• Embrace the outdoors – A vast country with a relatively minuscule population leaves lots of potential for outdoor activities. Rent a pair of cross-country skis or snowshoes in the winter and enjoy the free use of many trails (versus expensive downhill lift passes). In the summer, you can bike, hike, kayak, or canoe. The cost of most equipment rentals is around 25-100 CAD for a day, and you can explore many areas at no further cost.
• Take the bus – Megabus runs in Ontario and Quebec (with connections into the U.S., including NYC). You can find tickets for as little as 1 CAD if booked in advance. This is the most affordable way to get between Toronto and Montreal (or into the U.S.).
• Use ride-sharing services – If you are going to be traveling between cities or provinces, keep an eye out for people sharing their vehicles. Craigslist, Couchsurfing, Kangaride, and Facebook all have ride-share pages for most major cities. If you can find someone traveling in your direction you can tag along and share the cost of gas.
• Eat street food – Every major Canadian city has plenty of street vendors selling hot dogs, sausages, and veggie dogs for as little as 3 CAD. You won’t find a cheaper lunch!
• Take a free walking tour – Most major cities in Canada offer free walking tours. They are a great way to explore and get a feel for each location and its history. Most last a couple of hours and don’t need to be booked in advance. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Buy gas on native reserves – If you are driving around the country, keep your eyes peeled for native reserves — they are the cheapest places to buy gas in Canada. With lower taxes, you’ll find gas prices significantly cheaper than anywhere else. They are also great places to stop and experience the vibrant cultures of Canada’s First People.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Canada

Hostels are not that plentiful across Canada, but generally, they’re high quality and clean. Here are my suggested places to stay in Canada:

• The Only Backpacker’s Inn (Toronto)
• The Parkdale Hostellerie (Toronto)
• Cambie Hostel Gastown (Vancouver)
• Samesun Vancouver (Vancouver)
• HI Calgary City Centre (Calgary)
• HI Lake Louise (Banff)
• HI Montreal Hostel (Montreal)
• Alexandrie-Montréal (Montreal)

How to Get Around Canada

Public transportation – Within city limits you’ll find great public transportation networks. Toronto and Montreal are the only two cities in Canada with subway systems (although Vancouver has SkyTrain), but even the smallest Canadian cities have extensive bus routes. It usually costs about 3.25 CAD for a one-way ticket.

Larger cities have passes designed for tourists to make the most of the metro system. For example, Toronto has a daily pass for unlimited travel for 13.50 CAD.

Bus – There’s no singular country-wide bus system here. Instead, regional operators vary per location. Megabus is the cheapest option when it comes to traveling between cities in Ontario and Quebec. Fares can be as low as 1 CAD if booked in advance. Red Arrow is primarily an Alberta coach line. On the east coast, Maritime Bus is the main coach company (except in Newfoundland where it’s DRL Group).

Toronto to Ottawa costs about 30-50 CAD with Flixbus, while Ottawa to Montreal is around 35-50 CAD. A longer ride — like the 13-hour drive from Calgary to Vancouver — costs around 125-165 CAD.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – There is a train service (VIA Rail) that runs from coast to coast and is very scenic, albeit not cheap. Many train routes are currently suspended or running with limited space due to COVID-19, meaning that journeys take even longer. It takes over 24 hours to get from Halifax to Ottawa, costing about 150-170 CAD. On the other hand, shorter routes like between Montreal and Quebec City (a 3.5-hour journey) are more affordable and start at 36 CAD.

Flying – As your last alternative, you can fly, but since the country has only two major airlines (WestJet and Air Canada) prices are often high. Round-trip flights from Toronto to Vancouver usually start at around 200 CAD when booked early but they can easily cost triple that price. Round-trip from Ottawa to Calgary is around 270 CAD, but again, this is when booked in advance. Expect to pay at least double that price if you don’t book early.

Overall, flying is worthwhile only if you want to see specific cities and have limited time. For shorter routes (like Montreal to Ottawa) you’ll save a lot of money if you just take the bus or train.

Car Rental – If you’re going between provinces or staying a while in the country, consider renting a car for 35-50 CAD per day. This is one of the best, most convenient ways to get around the country — especially if you’re interested in getting out of the cities and into Canada’s wilderness (ideally if you have someone to share the cost with too).

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

Ridesharing – If you are traveling between cities or provinces, keep an eye out for people sharing their vehicle. Check these websites for rides:

• Couchsurfing

When to Go to Canada

Since Canada is such a large country, climate and temperature vary drastically from coast to coast. Canada has very defined seasons, and winter can be harsh and long in some places. For example, winters in the Northern Territories begin early and end late, and places like Newfoundland and Labrador can experience snow until late May.

On the other hand, winter in the Canadian Rockies is epic and people from all over the world flock to British Columbia and Alberta to hit the slopes around Whistler, Banff, and Revelstoke. Prepare for cold temperatures, though. In some places, like on the prairies, it can get as cold as -40°C (-40°F). In short, only visit in the winter if you’re planning to do winter sports.

Summer in Canada is beautiful, but it’s also the busiest time of year. June to the end of September is the main tourist season, with inflated prices and large crowds. On the other hand, the temperatures are lovely during this time, often in the high 20s°C (70s°F). There are music festivals galore and it’s a great time to hike, bike, and explore the Great Lakes.

Shoulder season is also a fantastic time to visit Canada, although spring (March-June) can be quite wet. Fall (September-October) is highly recommended, as temperatures are still warm enough and the autumn foliage is really something special. Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces are well worth an autumn trek.

How to Stay Safe in Canada

Canada is a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent attacks are rare and tend to be confined to certain areas (generally where drug and gang violence are a problem). You may encounter petty crime, like theft, around popular tourist landmarks, though that isn’t super common. Nevertheless, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially while taking public transportation, just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If visiting in the winter, dress warmly. It gets so cold here that people literally freeze to death so take precautions and always keep an eye on the forecast.

If you’re going out hiking, always check the weather beforehand and ensure you have enough water. Bring sunscreen and a hat too. It can get humid here!

Canada’s cannabis legalization has a whole lot of rules and restrictions. The CBC has a great outline on everything you need to know if you’re thinking of consuming cannabis while in Canada.

Scams here are rare, but it never hurts to be prepared. Read about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Canada Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Canada Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Canada travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Toronto

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

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I'm a seasoned Amtrak rider who spent 6 hours in business class on a Canadian train for the first time. It was better than any train I've taken in the US.

• I booked a business-class ticket on a Via Rail Canada train from Toronto to Montreal in 2022.
• For $200, I sat in a business-class seat with two tables and complimentary meal and drink service.
• I thought it was nicer than most US trains I've been on, worth the price, and I'd gladly ride again.

In the last three years, I've spent over 150 hours traveling 5,000 miles on trains, from 30-hour overnight rides to quick, three-hour journeys. 

I've taken trains along the East Coast of the US, into the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Québec, and between the European countries of Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. Along the way, I've tried out a wide range of seating options, from business and first classes to shared bunks and private rooms. 

In August of 2022, I spent six hours traveling in business class from Toronto to Montreal on Via Rail , Canada's main railroad system. It was my first time using Via Rail, and I was surprised by all the business class offerings, from comfy seats to snacks and meals. It was better than my business-class Amtrak experiences in the US — and totally worth the $200 ticket.

Similar to Amtrak, Via Rail is one of the most accessible and popular ways to travel by train in Canada.

ViaRail serves more than 400 stations in eight provinces across Canada with economy seating, business class, and sleeper accommodation, according to the train line's website.

My journey began at Toronto's Union Station.

I arrived at 7 a.m. for my 8:30 a.m. train to Montreal.

I arrived early because my business-class ticket included access to an exclusive lounge at the station with plenty of seating and free refreshments.

According to its website, Via Rail's lounges are available to passengers traveling in business class, sleeper plus, prestige, and VIA Rail Premier members traveling in economy.

Amtrak has lounges at select stations too, but they're only free to access for first-class passengers .

The lounge was mostly empty on a Friday morning.

I thought it was a quiet and peaceful place to enjoy a coffee and get some work done.

Around 8 a.m., I made my way to the track where my train was boarding.

My business-class ticket came with priority boarding , so I was able to skip a long line of passengers.

When I got to my assigned single seat, I was surprised to find that I had a side table in addition to a tray table that pulled out in front of me.

No train I've ever been on in the US has offered two tables per passenger.

Throughout the trip, I used the side table to hold my coffee while working and to store my laptop while taking work breaks. Beneath the side table, a conveniently placed outlet charged my devices.

Right away, I thought that my Via Rail seat was one of the most comfortable I've ever experienced on a train.

The Toronto Star reported that Via Rail business-class seats are 18.5 inches wide with a 39-inch seat pitch. 

An Amtrak representative told BI that their business-class seats are about an inch wider than Via Rail's with an additional three inches of legroom, but I don't think they're nearly as comfortable.

Unlike Amtrak seats I've sat in, the top of my Via Rail seat was curved, so I was able to rest my head in a comfortable position for lounging.

The seats reclined, too, just like in the US. This made them even more comfortable.

I also noticed that, unlike on my rides with Amtrak, Via Rail's seat back compartments held a safety pamphlet with directions for what to do in an emergency situation.

I found this comforting.

The train started moving right on time at 8:32 a.m.

Shortly after leaving, a train attendant came around with a complimentary drink service. I ordered a coffee.

Then it was time for breakfast. Unlike Amtrak's business-class fares, Via Rail's ticket comes with complimentary meals brought to my seat.

The train served a warm bagel with cream cheese. It was no New York bagel , I thought, but it was decent and filled me up.

An hour later, an attendant came back around with savory snack packs filled with nuts, pretzels, and crackers.

Then, train attendants came around again with warm hand wipes before lunch service, which I thought was a nice touch.

Lunch was another business-class perk. The menu was announced over the loudspeaker. The entree choices were trout, chicken, or pasta.

I went with the pasta. It was a rigatoni dish with sides of corn salad, bread, and carrot bread for dessert. The meal was better than I expected with an al dente cook on the pasta. I also thought it was much better than the pasta I've tried on Amtrak trains.

After lunch, I went to the bathroom and was impressed by how clean it was compared to most train bathrooms I've used.

I often find overflowing trash cans in train bathrooms, but VIA Rail's looked like it was cleaned recently.

Due to some delays at stops along the way, the train arrived in Montreal about an hour later than scheduled at 2:30 p.m.

While I thought this was frustrating, at least I was comfortable.

This 6-hour business-class ride cost $200, while a recent 10-hour Amtrak business-class ride cost $163. Although it was more expensive, I think the Via Rail ride was worth the additional cost since I found it to be so comfortable.

Even though we were late, I found business-class train travel to be more comfortable and pleasant in Canada than I typically do in the US. Now I want to explore more of Canada by train.

• Main content

24 of the world’s most incredible train journeys

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

As you cross the continental US aboard the California Zephyr, you’ll see prairies, deserts, mountains and canyons galore © Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

From cutting through the countryside to connecting a country’s great cities, the world’s best railway journeys offer entirely new perspectives on a destination.

Train travel always delivers plenty of magic. Sometimes it’s in the cars, as you meet fellow travelers, or as you eat and sleep with the sound of wheels rolling on the steel rails beneath you. Sometimes it’s outside, in the landscape the train traverses – offering an adventure, an experience, an insight into the heart of a nation.

Our upcoming book,  Amazing Train Journeys ,  rounds up the world’s greatest railway rides. Pulled from its pages, these 24 train journeys are truly first-class.

1. The Reunification Express, Vietnam

Start:  Ho Chi Minh City End:  Hanoi Departs: Daily Distance:  1072 miles (1726km) Duration:  Two days

This is one of Southeast Asia ’s best-loved railways – and one of the  most epic overnight train journeys in the world . There is no more atmospheric way to haul into Vietnam ’s twin metropolises as this train rattles through historic cities and swooshes beside spectacular coastlines.

2. The California Zephyr, USA

Start:  Chicago End:   San Francisco Departs: Daily Distance:  2438 miles (3924km) Duration:   52hrs 40mins

For soaking up the scenic grandeur of the North American continent, nothing compares with Amtrak ’s California Zephyr , one of the US’ best train journeys . This classic three-day ride travels across prairies, deserts, the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada on its way from the Midwest to the West Coast.

3. The Lake Titicaca Train, Peru

Start:  Puno End:  Cuzco Departs: Three times a week Distance:  241 miles (388km) Duration:  10 hours

Traversing the Altiplano, from the shores of Lake Titicaca to the bustling heart of the ancient Incan empire, the railway from Puno to Cuzco cuts a ponderous but picturesque path through the snow-dusted peaks and voluptuous valleys of the Andes, across the epic Peruvian plains , passing hardy bowler-hatted llama farmers and traveling through remote towns and villages.

4. The Beijing-to-Lhasa Express, China

Start:   Beijing End:   Lhasa Departs: Daily Distance:  2330 miles (3750km) Duration:  40 hours

From the futuristic architecture and imperial wonders of Beijing, the Z21 train transports its passengers from the neon lights of urban China  across the Tibetan plateau , where it glides past grazing yaks, fluttering prayer flags, snow-capped mountains and boundless blue skies. At your destination, magenta-robed monks await. 

5. The TranzAlpine, New Zealand

Start:   Christchurch End:  Greymouth Departs: Daily Distance:   139 miles (223km) Duration:  4hrs 30mins

Under five hours, this journey is surely one the world’s finest and most scenic one-day train rides. Commence the TranzAlpine experience in Christchurch, before speeding along the Canterbury Plains and climbing quickly through the snow-capped mountains of the Southern Alps, then descend through a thrilling tunnel to emerge among the lakes, streams and rainforests of the South Island ’s West Coast. 

6. The Bergensbanen, Norway

Start:  Oslo End:   Bergen Departs: Four times a day Distance:  308 miles (496km) Duration:   6hrs 30mins

This astonishing train is one of Europe’s best railway rides  – and one of the least well known outside of Norway . It covers the spectrum of the Nordic country’s natural splendor: climbing canyons, crossing rivers, burrowing through mountainsides and traversing barren icescapes.

7. Tazara Railway, Tanzania and Zambia

Start:  Dar es Salaam End:  Kapiri Mposhi Departs: Twice a week Distance:  1160 miles (1860km) Duration:   46 hours

Few trains in the world offer the chance – and we should point out that it’s a chance rather than a guarantee – of spotting big game from your seat. The Tazara ( Tanzania and Zambia Railway Authority) does just that. The highlight, though, is the chance to spend two days watching everyday life out of the window, and enjoying the clamor and chaos when the train pulls to a halt – scheduled or unscheduled.

8. The Sunset Limited, USA 

Start:   New Orleans End: Los Angeles Departs: Three times per week  Distance: 1995 miles (3211km)  Duration:  Two days

The ultimate American railroad ride: east to west, coast to coast, clean through from the bars of New Orleans to the breakers of the Pacific Ocean. If you’ve always dreamed of crossing the States, but don’t much relish the prospect of two weeks spent cooped up in an automobile, then a ride on the Sunset Limited is the answer. Sit back and let America’s landscapes buzz by: from Louisiana’s bayous, past the high-rises of Houston, across the deserts of Texas and Arizona , over the Californian hills all the way to LA’s golden beaches. Saddle up, partner: it’s gonna be quite a ride.

9. The Caledonian Sleeper, UK

Start:  London (Euston) End:   Fort William Departs: Daily Distance:  509 miles (819km) Duration:  13hrs 30mins

Segueing from the sooty suburbs and crowded concrete-lined cul-de-sacs of central London to the crisp air and soaring vistas of the Scottish Highlands via one overnight train journey epitomizes the romance of rail travel. Enjoy the buffet-car banter, be lulled to sleep by the rhythm of the rails, then wake up to bedside views of towering granite peaks. 

10. Mombasa to Nairobi, Kenya

Start: Mombasa Ends:  Nairobi Departs: Daily Distance:  360 miles (579km) Duration:  5hrs 10mins

The Nairobi–Mombasa railway route is among Africa’s most legendary: it even helped foster the modern concept of safari. The rickety old railway has undergone a rebuild in recent years with smart new stations and a new track laid across the Kenyan savannah . What hasn’t changed is the spellbinding journey, with trains departing from Mombasa and passing in the shadow of Kilimanjaro to the cusp of the Great Rift Valley.

11. Tangier to Marrakesh, Morocco

Start:   Tangier End:  Marrakesh Departs: Daily Distance:  360 miles (580km) Duration:  5hrs 15mins

Nothing can fully prepare you for the magnificence Morocco ’s most evocative city – from the clamor and spectacle of the central square, Djemaa El Fna , to the primary colors of the Jardin Majorelle ; and from the peaceful madrassa of Medersa Ben Youssef to the mad profusion of alleyways. There’s no doubting that a railway journey down the spine of this North African nation is a profoundly uplifting experience.

12. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Start:   Vancouver End:   Banff Departs: Twice a week Distance:  594 miles (957km) Duration:  37 hours

Clattering across the wild Rocky Mountains along a pioneering 19th-century railroad, this train journey is all at once a geological field trip, sightseeing adventure and wildlife safari. It promises cinematic views of Canada ’s quintessential mountain landscapes, plus a bevy of engineering marvels, from dizzying bridges to logic-defying tunnels. And with luck, you might even spy a bald eagle, moose or grizzly bear. 

13. Alexandria to Aswan, Egypt

Start:   Alexandria End:  Aswan Departs: Daily Distance:  670 miles (1100km) Duration:  16 hours

A ride from Alexandria to Aswan means you will travel the length of Egypt 's rail network – and also undertake an odyssey in the company of the great Nile River , with chances to disembark and explore the relics of empires along its banks . Do keep in mind that, for all their plus points, Egyptian trains are not always known for punctuality. 

14. The Serra Verde Express, Brazil

Start:   Curitiba End:  Morretes,  Paraná Departs: Daily Distance:  42 miles (68km) Duration:  3hrs 30mins

One of Brazil ’s most spectacular train journeys, the Serra Verde Express starts in the architecturally bold city of Curitiba and winds its way through dramatic mountain passes covered with tropical rainforest before it drops you in Morretes in the lush state of Paraná. The half-day trip takes in canyons, jagged mountain peaks and verdant lowlands, and the slow-going locomotive allows plenty of opportunities to photograph the cinematic backdrop while traversing some 30 bridges and chugging through 14 tunnels. Aside from the captivating scenery, the journey provides a fascinating glimpse into the past as it trundles through tiny stations dating back to the late 1800s.

15. The Darjeeling Toy Train, India

Start:   New Jalpaiguri End:   Darjeeling Departs: Daily Distance:  55 miles (88.5km) Duration:  7–8 hours

India ’s narrow-gauge steam railways are the stuff of legend, and the bottle-blue Darjeeling Toy Train is the nation’s lead engine. The ride from the Bengal plains to Darjeeling travels past emerald-green tea plantations and precariously balanced, tin-roofed townships, while clouds tumble down the looming massif of Mt Khangchendzonga. Steam engines are now only used for a small section of the route, yet this iconic mountain journey still serves up a sizable slice of history.

16. The Hokkaidō Shinkansen, Japan

Start:  Tokyo End:  Hakodate Departs: Daily Distance:  512 miles (824km) Duration:  4 hours

The Hokkaidō Shinkansen , one of Japan’s iconic bullet trains , takes you from Tokyo to Hakodate, the southern port of Hokkaidō . Along the way, it zooms past picturesque scenes of rural Japan , through mountains and under the sea. The route is only part of it, though: riding the shinkansen – with its food trolleys and staff who bow upon entering and exiting the train car – is a classic Japanese experience.

17. Colombo to Badulla, Sri Lanka

Start:  Colombo End:  Badulla Departs: Daily Distance:  181 miles (292km) Duration:  9–10 hours

One of many unforgettable things about Sri Lanka is the variety and intensity of the color green throughout the year . And for train aficionados, there is no better way to appreciate the country’s full, verdant spectrum than an all-day rail journey from Colombo’s urban gardens at sea level to tea plantations in the Hill Country , via brain-spinning sensory doses of jungle and forest, paddy field and palm tree, mountain and valley, national parks…and human habitation, too. Expect to move slowly – and enjoy one of the most scenic train trips in the world.

18. Bangkok to Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore

Start:   Bangkok End:  Singapore Departs: Weekly Distance:  1200 miles (1900km) Duration: Three days

A railway journey from Bangkok to Singapore spans three countries, three capital cities, and – without disembarking once – can be completed in under three days. But to go so fast would be to miss the point of this artery along the Malay Peninsula – a line suited to capricious roaming. You always have the option to hop off – to see tropical islands, to scale the cool heights of tea plantations, and to linger in a trio of metropolises that are each entirely different.

19. The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Start:  St Moritz End:  Zermatt Departs: Daily (in season) Distance:  180 miles (290km) Duration:  8 hours

Switzerland is a nation of rail fanatics . And if the Swiss could pick one definitive ride, the honor would surely go to the Glacier Express . This eight-hour journey from ritzy St Moritz to Matterhorn-topped Zermatt unzips the lovely Alpine terrain in the country’s south, corkscrewing up to wind-battered mountain passes, teetering across 291 bridges and rumbling through 91 tunnels. It intentionally moves at a snail’s pace so you take in those out-of-this-world views of meadows, forest, falls and mountains – all through panoramic windows. 

20. The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy

Start:   Chur End:  Tirano Departs: Daily Distance:  96 miles (156km) Duration:  4hrs 30mins

We can wax lyrical about the glacier-capped mountains, waterfall-draped ravines, jewel-colored lakes and endless spruce forests glimpsed through panoramic windows on Switzerland’s Bernina Express – but seeing is believing. Rolling from Chur in Graubünden to Tirano in northern Italy , this narrow-gauge train often tops polls of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys. The line has even made UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites – and with good reason.

21. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, England, France, Switzerland and Italy

Start:  London End:  Venice Departs: One to six times per month Distance:  1300 miles (2090km) Duration:  Two days

The promise of traveling from London to Venice cocooned in luxury while sitting in twinkly dining cars with fine china and silver cutlery is surely one that endures in the hearts of all rail enthusiasts. While the Orient Express’ various other 20th-century routes are sadly long gone, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers a tantalizing sample of the original on a trip that is surely the best journey back in time ever. But this route gained a new rival in 2023 with the Orient Express La Dolce Vita service  – and, in 2025, a new service on the original route is scheduled to hit the rails .

22. Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia

Start:  Nova Gorica End:   Jesenice Departs:  Daily Distance:  55 miles (89km) Duration:  Two hours

Here is a near-perfect railway adventure that most people have never heard of. The Bohinj Railway connects two places whose significance can be lost to modern travelers. An unassuming regional train rattling out of a faded-grandeur halt on the Italy– Slovenia border doesn’t even hint at what’s to come. The journey is a spectacular tour of Slovenia’s upland highlights from Nova Gorica, climbing through mountain towns and villages along the Soča River , passing through superb Alpine scenery close to Lake Bohinj , and on past world-famous Lake Bled to Jesenice.

23. The Ghan, Australia

Start:   Adelaide End:  Darwin Departs: Twice a week Distance:   1851 miles (2979km) Duration:  54 hours

Cutting vertically across the Outback heart of Australia , straight through the desolate deserts of the Red Centre, the Ghan is one of the southern hemisphere’s most unforgettable train journeys. This cross-country train service has provided a vital link between Australia’s north and south coasts, traveling north across the country from well-to-do, orderly Adelaide to the tropical, croc-filled creeks of Darwin. Luxurious and legendary, it’s Australia’s elegant version of the Orient Express.

24. Cannes to Menton, France

Start:   Cannes End:  Menton Departs: Daily Distance:  34 miles (55km) Duration:  1hr 20mins

It’s the stuff that travel dreams are made of: a slow train skirting the French Mediterranean coast, through towns whose very names resonate with glamour – Cannes, Antibes , Monaco . On one side of the tracks lies that sparkling sea; on the other, dramatic cliffs interspersed with the gorgeous coastal towns of the French Riviera . You can make a long day of this short trip, hopping on and off to explore a street market, linger at an outdoor terrace, take a breath of history and get a taste of luxury.

This article was first published Aug 5, 2019 and updated Jan 2, 2024.

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29-year-old mother killed while attempting selfie near oncoming train

HIDALGO, Mexico (WKRC) - A mother was killed after she attempted to snap a selfie near an oncoming vintage train.

According to The Daily Mail , 29-year-old Dulce Alondra had taken her young son to see a vintage train pass through Hidalgo, Mexico when she was struck and killed by the locomotive. Per TMZ, the CPKC's Final Spike Steam Tour train was due to pass through the town and had attracted a crowd of onlookers.

The train is famous for making a trip from Canada to Mexico City and was described by TMZ as a major attraction for locals in Hidalgo. Alondra can be seen stepping out of the crowd with her son, but pushing him away before lifting the phone to snap the picture.

Video shows the woman being struck, with several other individuals rushing over to help. Citing reports, TMZ wrote that first responders pronounced Alondra dead at the scene. The outlet added that other members of Alondra's family had been present at tracks aside from her son.

According to TMZ, CPKC launched an investigation into the incident.

"We are deeply saddened by this loss of life and wish to express our condolences to the woman’s family and loved ones," CPKC said in a statement obtained by TMZ. "For their own safety and that of the crews, all spectators looking at any train must always remain at least 10 meters back from the train and the tracks. Spectators must never stand on railway tracks, try to board rail equipment or climb on rail infrastructure."

Alternate travel options to consider if TTC strikes

Strike planned for friday could bring buses, streetcars and subways to a halt.

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Commuters who rely on public transit to get to work, school or elsewhere in Toronto will have to find other ways to get around the city if a public transit strike goes ahead as planned later this week.

• Head to this story for the latest news about the potential strike by TTC workers

Nearly 12,000 TTC workers could walk off the job  Friday at 12:01 a.m. if negotiations between the transit agency and the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) 113 don't produce a new contract — which could disrupt travel plans for tens of thousands of commuters.

ATU Local 113 president Marvin Alfred said there hasn't been enough progress on the union's wage, benefit and job security demands, while TTC spokesperson Stuart Green said a deal is possible as long as the parties remain at the bargaining table.

A strike would mean subways, buses and streetcars won't run, but the Wheel-Trans service for people with disabilities would continue to operate.

If you're one of the people who normally takes public transit in Toronto, here is some information to help you plan ahead.

TTC users talk about their options to get to work if the transit service goes on strike

Other transit systems.

Metrolinx, the provincial transit agency that operates the GO Transit bus and train networks, said in an email it "always has contingency plans in place" in the event of service disruptions.

The agency added that GO trains and the UP Express will continue to operate as normal, and its stations will remain open, but it wouldn't say whether those plans include increasing the frequency of trains and buses.

Durham Region Transit (DRT) said in a news release Tuesday that it "does not anticipate significant impacts to our local transit services," although it is planning to make alternative stop arrangements for its PULSE 900 (Highway 2) and Route 920 services near the Scarborough Town Centre and Centennial College, if required.

"If a disruption occurs, customers who usually transfer to/from TTC services may wish to consider GO Transit options to reach their destinations. DRT does offer connection opportunities to GO Transit train stations and bus stops within Durham Region," the statement said.

• Union says TTC workers will strike on June 7 if no deal reached
• TTC workers could strike. Here's what they want

Mississauga's MiWay said by email it's also preparing contingency plans for stops it serves that could be affected by a TTC strike, including the Kipling Bus Terminal and Long Branch Bus Loop.

"As part of these plans, we are reviewing possible detour options for routes servicing Kipling Bus Terminal (i.e. Routes 1/1C, 3, 11, 20, 26, 35, 70, 71, 76, 101/101A, 108, & 109) and Long Branch Bus Loop (i.e. Routes 5 & 23)," said Eve Wiggins, director of MiWay Transit, in an email statement.

Kristine Hubbard, operations manager at Beck Taxi, said she expects the company's entire fleet of around 1,300 vehicles to be on the roads. However, she said with demand expected to surge, the company won't be able to guarantee arrival times.

"We'll try to do our best to help, but we are no replacement for TTC," she said.

Beck Taxi has stopped booking scheduled trips for Friday, but customers can still request taxis on-demand by hailing them down on the street, via phone or by using the Beck Taxi app or website . 

"We won't forget about you. We won't overcharge you, but pack your patience and if you don't have to go, you know, don't," she said.

Uber Canada said in a statement that if the strike goes ahead it will use surge pricing, which means prices will increase in response to higher demand, although it will put a cap on prices.

The exact price of each fare will be based on factors such as the length of the trip, the amount of traffic in the area and how many riders are requesting rides versus the number of Uber drivers on the road, the company said.

Uber said it will also offer incentives to its drivers to entice them to increase the number of trips available. 

It recommends riders also use its "group ride" feature to carpool and split fares with friends, or use UberX Share, which pairs different riders together. 

Cycling, walking or driving

Commuters who normally leave their cars at home will likely choose to get behind the wheel and drive to their destinations, which could lead to more congestion than normal . 

The Toronto Parking Authority (TPA) said it encourages anyone driving downtown to visit the Green P website for a list of municipally-run parking locations, including those with electric vehicle charging spots.

Where negotiations stand as potential TTC strike looms

Others may choose to ride their own bikes or to rent one.

Bike Share Toronto has more than 9,000 bikes available at 700-plus stations across the city that are available to rent for short trips. Riders can access these bikes by creating an account through the Bike Share website , mobile app  or at a station kiosk. Pricing options include pay-as-you-go, day passes or annual memberships.

Michael Longfield, executive director of advocacy group Cycle Toronto, said the city's network of bike lanes have expanded rapidly over the past few years, particularly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"A lot of folks did start dusting their bikes off in the early weeks and months of the pandemic. I'm sure some folks will be tempted to take them out again," Longfield said.

Longfield said it's important to make sure your bike is in working order, so make sure to check the air in your tires, that your brakes work and that your chain is functional and not too rusty.

David Simor, director of the Centre for Active Transportation, said for those whose bikes have been sitting in a garage for the winter or longer, there are lots of bike repair shops to get it fixed up. He also pointed to community bike hubs where cyclists can learn do-it-yourself repairs. The city maintains a list of both here .

Simor pointed to the city's "amazing and under-advertised" multi-use trail and ravine systems .

"It might not be quite as direct as on streets, but certainly very comfortable and really, you know, beautiful and gorgeous to boot at this time of the year," he said.

Finally, Simor said, those who are fortunate to live close to work, grocery stores and other amenities can go for an old-fashioned walk.

"It's actually a really helpful thing for those who need to drive by keeping your car off the road. And also it's great for your mental and physical health," he said.

The airport

Toronto Pearson Airport issued a statement Thursday saying its aware a strike would be a problem for air travellers.

It said some 4,700 people per day use the TTC to get to and from the airport via the 900 Airport Express route that runs from Kipling Station.

It urged those travellers to instead consider the UP Express, taxis or other ride-hailing services or a GO bus (routes 40 and 94 service the airport).  

Elementary school students at Toronto's public and Catholic school boards won't attend class Friday due to a scheduled PA Day, but high schools will be open for a regular school day.

The Toronto District School Board told parents and caregivers Wednesday that school buses will operate normally for secondary school students, but warned of possible delays due to increased traffic.

"All other students should explore alternate methods of transportation including carpooling or biking and/or walking in order to get to school," the note said.

"Thank you for your understanding as we all prepare for what could be a challenging time to get around in our city."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ryan is a reporter with CBC Toronto. He has also worked for CBC in Vancouver, Yellowknife and Ottawa, filing for web, radio and TV. You can reach him by email at [email protected].

• Follow Ryan Patrick Jones on Twitter

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