rail travel to canada

Train Across Canada

For travellers wondering if there is a cross Canada train, you’re in luck. Not only does VIA Rail have a passenger train that travels between Toronto and Vancouver, you can take a connecting train to Montreal before heading to Halifax, making for a complete rail trip across Canada.

VIA Rail Canadian train travels through the Canadian Rockies

Popular cross canada train trips in 2024/25.

Trans Canada Train Route and Maps
Train Through Canada - Quick Facts

Top 5 Reasons to Take Rail Trips Across Canada

How to travel across Canada?

Parts of Canada to Visit

Frequently asked questions.

A train trip across Canada shows you the sheer scale and diversity of this vast nation. Watch through a giant picture window as the landscape shifts from expansive lakes to sweeping prairie grasslands, from sky-piercing mountains to lush rainforest, before finally arriving at the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Sleep in your private cozy cabin, take in the views from the dome cars, and linger over tantalizing meals created from regional specialties. There's no other trip quite like it.

Long before air travel was commonplace, or a network of freeways made road trips possible, Canadians went on tour by train. Crossing the country’s vast expanse by rail is just as magical now as it was a century ago — perhaps even more so, in this hurry-up world. The luxurious pace of getting from A to B offers ample time to relax, meet new friends, savour gourmet food and wine, and appreciate the magnitude of this wide land.

There are many options for a trans-Canada rail trip . Journey from Toronto to Vancouver on an epic 13-day adventure or begin in Toronto and arrive on the West Coast in less than a week. No matter what trip you choose, you'll have a unique chance to discover Canada's natural beauty and enchanting culture. All while unwinding in pure comfort.

The local travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations specialize in train travel across Canada. By creating personalized itineraries based on conversations with you, we can help you realize your perfect trip. We are a Canadian company dedicated to helping visitors experience the best of Canada — it’s all we do.

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

The Canadian Prestige Journey

Travel across Canada in VIA Rail's Prestige Class to experience personalized luxury service throughout your journey. The only luxury sleeper train that goes across Canada, VIA Rail’s Prestige on the Canadian train includes a private deluxe cabin with shower and bathroom. Exclusive private tours compliment your experience in each of your stopover destinations.

Miles covered on train : 2,762

Days on train : 4

Nights on train : 4

Canadian Cross-Country Journey

This eight-day exploration of Canada covers some of the country’s big highlights. You’ll spend four-nights on a rail journey on VIA’s iconic Canadian train, travelling from Toronto through the Canadian Rockies to coastal Vancouver. You can also do the trip in reverse. Excursions at either end of your train trip include time in Toronto, with a guided excursion to Niagara Falls, time exploring the beautiful West Coast city of Vancouver, and time in Victoria, where you’ll take in the world famous Butchart Gardens.

Across Canada by Train

This 13-day itinerary will fill a traveller’s desire for both the energy of Canada’s big cities and the calmness of its expansive nature. As you journey by train between Toronto and Vancouver, you'll discovery the diversity off Canada‘s landscape. With travel on both VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer, you’ll experience the best train trips in Canada. You’ll also get five days in the Rockies, including a stay in Lake Louise.

Miles covered on train : 2,428

Days on train : 5

Nights on train : 3

Canada Coast to Coast by Train

For those with more time, take this unforgettable 16-day a train journey across Canada. Starting in coastal Vancouver, travel through the scenic Rocky Mountains, explore the charming mountain town of Jasper, and immerse yourself in the cultural hubs of Toronto and Montreal. This journey across Canada includes a luxurious four-night train ride on VIA Rail’s Canadian, offering stunning views of Canada's diverse landscapes. Highlights include exploring the Rockies, a visit to the iconic Niagara Falls, and discovering the historic charm of Quebec City. While on this cross Canada rail trip, enjoy guided tours and ample leisure time to absorb the beauty and culture of this vast country.

Miles covered on train : 3,554 Days on train: 7 Nights on train: 4

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

Polar bear cartoon looking through a pair of binoculars

Cross-Canada Trains and Routes

1. the canadian.

Route map of VIA Rail’s Canadian train from Vancouver to Toronto

The Canadian Train: Route Map

Hopping a ride on this train is the ultimate way to discover how big and beautiful Canada is. ' The Canadian ' was the flagship of the Canadian Pacific rail line when it began service in 1955. Travelling from Toronto to Vancouver, the Canadian carries you past the Great Lakes, over the granite outcrops of the Canadian Shield, through dense boreal forest, across undulating grasslands, and into the high alpine of the Canadian Rockies, which are crowned by a glacial ice cap. (The only landscape you’ll not see? Tundra.)

“What a wonderful way to see Canada,” said Canadian Train Vacation guest Ellie Haimsohn, of Cleveland, Ohio, in her review. “The Canadian Rockies are unbelievably beautiful, with majestic peaks and glaciers. The diversity is inspiring as you leave the mountains for the prairies.”

The Canadian train is the only route where one can experience VIA Rail’s luxurious Prestige Class . Travellers in this exclusive service level enjoy elegantly appointed cabins featuring private bathrooms with showers, flat-screen TVs, and expansive windows for panoramic views of Canada's stunning landscapes. Prestige Class also offers round-the-clock concierge service, with the option to have the included meals, snacks, and beverages delivered to their cabin. Guests can linger over gourmet meals and premium beverages in the dining car, with menus showcasing the finest local ingredients. Additionally, Prestige Class passengers have exclusive access to the Park Car, a dome car offering a relaxed lounge atmosphere and an upper-level observation deck for unparalleled sightseeing.

#1 Travel tip: Multiple train experiences

If you travel between April and October, you could combine Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail train experiences for an epic across-Canada trip.

2. The Corridor

Route map of VIA Rail’s Corridor train from Toronto to Quebec City

The Corridor Train: Route Map

The Corridor Train runs between Toronto and Quebec City, with stopovers in Ottawa and Montreal. Travel through the heartland of Canada. This scenic commuter train service offers Economy and Business Class. In Business Class, guests receive priority boarding and waiting lounge access as well as onboard meals and drinks served at your seat.

[ Explore: What is the Best Train Trip in Canada? ]

3. the ocean train.

Onboard the Ocean Train , you'll travel from the French-speaking province of Quebec, through the blissful backdrop of lighthouses and seascapes in the Canadian Maritime Province of Nova Scotia, before reaching your final destination of Halifax. As you relax on board, you'll see tiny communities along your route, representing French Canadian, Acadian, Celtic and English heritage.

Route map of VIA Rail's Ocean Train, which is one segment of the train trip across Canada

4. The Skeena Train

The Skeena — the VIA Rail service that connects Jasper, Alberta to Prince Rupert, British Columbia — is another route in the rail system that allows one to see Canada by train. This is a two-day trip that takes passengers through some of Canada’s most breathtaking and varied landscapes. (The popular Skeena Skyline dome car has not been in service since 2020 and there are no updates about its return.) A special add-on offered by Canadian Train allows travellers to enjoy a picturesque portion of this route out of Jasper. During this short day tour, passengers enjoy stunning views of pristine lakes, rushing rivers, and abundant wildlife before returning to Jasper.

Map of the Skeena train route, which connects Jasper and Prince Rupert

5. Rocky Mountaineer

Map of Rocky Mountaineer’s three train routes

Rocky Mountaineer Train: Route Map

The Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight-only train, perfect for experiencing the most spectacular views and optimal photo opportunities of the Canadian Rockies . The train connects British Columbia and Alberta, with stops in Jasper, Banff, Lake Louise, Vancouver and Whistler on three unique routes. Your overnight stay during your journey will be in Quesnel or Kamloops.

Explore: Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips

Facts About Trains Across Canada

Canada is huge. The journey between Vancouver and Toronto is approximately 1.5 times the distance between London and Moscow.
It's fair to say that the railways built Canada, the world's second largest country. They connected Toronto and Ottawa in the east with the western frontier, which became a tourist draw after Banff National Park was established in 1877.
Canada is home to nine of the world's 12 climatic regions. Aboard VIA Rail's The Canadian train, you traverse nearly every landscape on Earth.
The scenic Rocky Mountaineer is the only passenger train to have access to certain special historic Canadian Pacific Railway routes , such as the 1885 Canadian Pacific route between Vancouver and Banff.
Some Canadian trains are designed with glass-dome viewing cars, so that you won't miss a minute of the jaw-dropping scenery.
Canada spans almost 90 degrees of longitude and uses 6 different time zones, so make sure you adjust your watch accordingly!
VIA Rail is the only company that offers service from one coast of Canada to the other.
Passenger and freight trains use the same rail lines in Canada, so be on the lookout for trains carrying raw materials to their final destinations.
Be prepared to enjoy a gourmet meal if your itinerary includes a ride on the Rocky Mountaineer.
In many cases, it's possible to add excursions to your train trip, enabling you to see even more of what Canada has to offer.
You'll see more– On a driving trip you'll have your eyes glued to the highway. On a train trip across Canada , you can sit back and enjoy the view as you travel through swathes of undeveloped forest, vast marshlands, canyons, river valleys and small towns.
Trains go straight to the centre in most Canadian cities– The train was the very first way to get across Canada - therefore it got all of the best real estate. The train arrives in the downtown core of each city, right in the middle of all the top hotels, shopping, dining and sightseeing.
You'll make new friends– A cross-Canada train journey can be wonderfully social. During the trip you can relax in the dining cars and get to know your fellow adventurers. There's nothing like card games, local wine and great views to inspire conversation.
Train travel is comfortable– Sit back in your large reclining chair. Feast on regional cuisine and local wines in the dining car. Drift to sleep to the click-clacking rhythm of the train in your private cabin (VIA Rail).
You'll have plenty of time to relax– Cross-Canada train travel is all about long, leisurely journeys where you simply sit back, read a book and watch the mountains and rivers go past your window. It's a wonderfully calm way to travel.

Other reasons to cross Canada by train:

You're almost guaranteed to see wildlife– You might see moose in Ontario, antelope on the plains, or bighorn sheep in the Canadian Rockies. Sightings of deer and elk are also common in the mountains. And if you don’t see any of Canada’s Big 5 from the train’s viewing areas, it’s a good bet you’ll see our country’s famous mammals when you get to Banff or Jasper.
The excellent onboard service– Since this is train travel, there’s no need to rush through a meal. Breakfast and lunch are served onboard VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains. If you travel on The Canadian train, you can enjoy a three-course dinner. Choose between braised rack of lamb or citrus-glazed salmon, for example, paired with Canadian wine, and served atop a white tablecloth in the dining car.

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#2 travel tip: explore canada's scenery.

Taking the train across Canada is the best way to discover the country’s diverse landscape, especially if you’ve never visited Canada before. See mountains, lakes, prairies, forests, and cities.

How to Travel Across Canada by Train

Man looks out to mountain view from VIA rail train car

As you have read, travelling across Canada by train is a vacation of a lifetime and offers a unique way to experience the country's diverse landscapes. The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations are here to make planning your trip as easy as possible. Here are some of our top tips on booking and packing, as well as our insights into what to expect on your train tour across Canada.

Planning Your Trip

Choose Your Route : VIA Rail, with its passenger train across Canada, offers many options. The most iconic rail route is the transcontinental journey from Toronto to Vancouver on the Canadian train. For East-Coast exploration, consider the Ocean train from Montreal to Halifax.

Book Early : Train travel in Canada is popular, especially in the summer and fall. Booking several months in advance can help secure the best fares and preferred travel dates.

Select Your Class : VIA Rail offers various classes, from comfortable Economy to the luxurious Prestige Class. Decide what level of comfort and service you desire. Prestige Class provides spacious cabins, private bathrooms, and all-inclusive dining and beverages.

Plan Your Stops : Make the most of your trip by planning stops at major cities and attractions along the way. Consider spending a few days in Toronto, exploring the Rockies in Jasper, or visiting Vancouver’s vibrant waterfront.

Packing Tips

Pack Light : Space on trains can be limited, so pack only what you need. A small suitcase or backpack is ideal. Remember, you can check your larger luggage separately on the longer routes.

Layered Clothing : Canada’s weather can vary greatly in every season. Layered clothing will keep you comfortable whether you’re in the mountains or by the coast. Don’t forget a good pair of walking shoes for excursions.

Essentials : Pack travel-sized toiletries, a reusable water bottle, and any medications you need. A small first-aid kit can also be handy.

Entertainment : Bring books, magazines, or download movies and music for the journey. While the scenery is captivating, there are times when you’ll appreciate having something to do. There will be sections when you won’t have access to cell or internet service.

What to Expect

Scenic Views : One of the highlights of travelling by train is the ever-changing landscape. From vast prairies to towering mountains, and dense forests to bustling cities, the views are spectacular.

Relaxed Pace : Train travel is slower than flying but infinitely more relaxing. Enjoy the journey, take in the views, and socialize with fellow travelers.

Onboard Services : VIA Rail trains offer a variety of services. Sleeper Plus and Prestige Classes offer more amenities, including fine dining, lounge access, and private cabins or berths.

Dining : Meals on the train are an experience in themselves. Depending on your class, you can enjoy anything from simple snacks to gourmet multi-course meals, often featuring local ingredients.

Stops and Excursions : Trains make several stops, allowing for brief excursions or extended stays. Take advantage of guided tours or simply explore on your own. As the train only runs every 3 to 4 days, if you do get off the train for an extended stay, you will have to wait for the next run.

For major stops along the cross-Canada route , you can request a four-day stopover in a destination — this is because The Canadian train (VIA Rail) only runs every four days.

No matter which trip you choose, you can bookend your train journey with bucket list experiences.

Consider this: you can kick off a once-in-a-lifetime Toronto to Vancouver train trip with a visit to Niagara Falls, a natural wonder, and end it with a day tour to Victoria and the beautiful Butchart Gardens. If you stop in Jasper, enjoy a boat trip on Maligne Lake, one of the world’s prettiest bodies of water.

1. Vancouver

Many cross-Canada train trips begin in Vancouver, the perfect jumping-off point for a tour. What makes Vancouver so unique is that it's a bustling city surrounded by natural wonders. Whether you prefer fine dining and shopping or kayaking and hiking, Vancouver has something to offer everyone.

People walk across Capilano Suspension Bridge in the forest in North Vancouver

2. Winnipeg

Make sure your cross-Canada rail trip goes through Winnipeg, Manitoba, which includes a combination of quiet prairies and metropolitan amenities. Winnipeg is the ideal place to visit if you enjoy museums and other cultural attractions.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a landmark in Winnipeg

3. Jasper

Many Canadian cross-country train trips include stops in Jasper, the site of Jasper National Park. If you're looking to get out of the city and connect with nature, Jasper is the place to do it. The town has plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities.

“For me the best part was all the wildlife — elk, just walking down the street in Jasper,” effused Australian Hazel Prosser, who travelled from Toronto to Vancouver, with stops in Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff along the way.

A person paddles a canoe across a lake in Jasper National Park

4. Montreal

Immerse yourself in the French culture without ever leaving Canada by including Montreal on your Canadian cross-country train tour. Located on an island in the St. Lawrence River, Montreal is a cosmopolitan city with museums, high-end restaurants and eye-catching architecture.

The Notre-Dame Basilica and other historical buildings in Montreal

5. Quebec City

When you take a luxury sleeper train across Canada , look for an itinerary that includes Quebec City. Immerse yourself in French-Canadian culture as you walk along cobblestone streets or sun yourself on Baie de Beauport, the local beach.

A sandy beach in Quebec City by the St. Lawrence River with rolling hills in the background

6. Halifax

The coastal city of Halifax is the perfect place to conclude a train ride across Canada . Steeped in Celtic history, Halifax is a major port, so be sure to have some fresh lobster before you board your cross-Canada train for the return trip home.

A group of people enjoying a lobster dining experience at Shuck Seafood + Raw Bar in Halifax

What Our Customers Say

Fresh tracks were very helpful in helping us plan and carry out our train trip across canada.

We thoroughly enjoyed seeing Canada from the east (Toronto) to the west (Vancouver) from the perspective of the trains. We also appreciated the quality of the food, the accommodati... read more

Richard and Carol

From West to East, a truly remarkable trip

Helen and I have just returned and have finished the packing away. Now we have time to delve back into particular aspects and dwell on the best bits. Starting with organisation and... read more

David and Helen

TAS, AUSTRALIA

A great experience not to be missed

Firstly we thank Fresh Tracks for the excellent organization of our trip and dealing so efficiently with the minor problem we had with our car rental. Travelling in winter does hav... read more

Peter, Diane, Steph and Bev

The accomodations, food and staff were really great

Our expectations were fully met. The accommodations, food and staff were really great. We had several delays on our flights, but the train experiences were fantastic. Since we are... read more

Dave and Julia

Why book your across-Canada rail trip with Canadian Train Vacations?

We take care of all the details

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

Independent travel with expert support

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

Get help when you need it

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

Is the train across Canada worth it?

Yes, a train ride across Canada is worth it for those who appreciate scenic landscapes, a relaxed pace, and a unique travel experience. The journey offers unparalleled views of the country's diverse geography, from the Rocky Mountains to the prairies and coastal regions. Additionally, the comfort and amenities provided, especially in higher classes, make it a luxurious and memorable trip.

How much does it cost for a train ride across Canada?

The cost of a train ride across Canada depends on the length of the tour and any upgrades you choose. Our recommended trips start at $4,380 to $15,390 per person for anywhere between 9 and 13 days of travel.

How long does it take to cross Canada by train?

Without stops, it takes five to six days to cross Canada by train, if you go coast to coast. Travelling between Toronto and Vancouver takes four days.

What is the most scenic train across Canada?

Several rail lines offer scenic routes across Canada, but one of the best is 'The Canadian,' which takes you through forests, fields and snow-capped mountains.

What is the best time of year to take a train across Canada?

The best time of year for a cross-Canada train trip depends on what you want to see and what type of weather you prefer. Summer brings large crowds to many of Canada's tourist attractions, along with high temperatures, but it's a great time to swim, fish, canoe or take part in other activities on one of the country's many lakes and rivers. Late September and early October are ideal for travellers who want to see fall foliage at its peak. May is a good time to enjoy warmer weather without encountering the summer crowds. Winter in Canada is a unique experience with much to see and do, from holiday festivals to snow sports.

About the author: Lisa Kadane is a travel journalist based in Kelowna. Her writing has been published in BBC Travel, CNN Travel, enRoute Magazine, and more. Highlights of her adventures in Canada include joining a polar bear safari in Churchill, heli-hiking in the Bugaboos,... Read more

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Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia.

Canadian long-distance trains are run by VIA Rail Canada, www.viarail.ca . They're a great way to see the country, whether you travel on the inter-city trains between Toronto, Montréal and Québec, the Océan from Montréal to Halifax or Canada's classic trans-continental train, The Canadian from Toronto to Winnipeg, Edmonton, Jasper & Vancouver. As well as VIA Rail, there's the excellent Rocky Mountaineer through the Rockies between Vancouver & Banff, Calgary or Jasper. This page explains routes, timetables, prices & what the trains are like.

Train times, fares & tickets

On other pages

Interactive map: click a route, useful country information, toronto - winnipeg - vancouver.

The greatest train in Canada and one of the world's great train journeys, VIA Rail's Canadian runs 2 or 3 times a week, linking Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Jasper National Park in the Rockies & Vancouver. See schedule, fares, how to buy tickets & a guide to the train & journey .

Montreal - Halifax

Three times a week, a train runs the 836 miles between Montreal and Halifax Nova Scotia. See the Montreal to Halifax page for train times, fares, info, and an illustrated account of the journey .

Toronto - Ottawa - Montreal - Quebec

There's no need to fly. Comfortable VIA Rail inter-city trains link Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal & Quebec, centre to centre with no airport hassle. If your budget permits, upgrade to VIA's Business Class with complimentary hot meal and wine, attentive steward service and access to VIA Rail's Business Lounges at major stations. It impressed me, it's as good as anything we have here in Europe. Since October 2019 only credit cards have been accepted as payment on board, not cash.

Toronto to Montréal by train in 5h10

VIA Rail's fast inter-city trains link Toronto, Ottawa & Montréal. Montréal to Toronto takes around 5h10 city centre to city centre. Use the times below as a guide and check current train times at www.viarail.ca . See the photos . Watch the video .

Montréal to Québec by train in 3h15

From Montréal to Québec, air-conditioned trains run several times daily, taking around 3h15. Check current times, fares & book online at www.viarail.ca .

Montreal to Ottawa & Toronto to Ottawa, www.viarail.ca

Montreal to Ottawa takes 1h50. Toronto to Ottawa takes about 4h20.

How much does it cost?

Montréal to Toronto starts at around Can$ 61 if you book in advance, fares vary like air fares.

Montreal to Quebec starts at around Can$ 48 if you book in advance, fares vary like air fares.

How to buy tickets

Option 1, buy at www.viarail.ca

Booking opens 11 months (331 days) in advance. You print your own tickets.

Payment problems on viarail.ca?

There are recent reports of VIA's payment system refusing non-Canadian cards.

One theory is that they have a standard for card verification higher than most foreign cards.

Option 2, buy at Omio.com or 12go.com

You can easily buy economy or business class tickets at Omio.com in multiple currencies & languages, with no payment problems.

You can also buy tickets at 12go.com , also in multiple currencies & languages.

To buy tickets by phone , call VIA Rail on 1 888 VIA-RAIL (1 888 842-7245).

Toronto Union Station

Union Station sits in the centre of Toronto in the shadow of the CN Tower, just across the road from the wonderful and highly-recommended Royal York Hotel . One of the world's classic railway stations, the current structure was built 1914-1920, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Union_Station_(Toronto) .

Via Rail's Inter-city trains. See the video

Montreal central station, watch the video : toronto to montreal, toronto to niagara falls, take a day trip by train to niagara falls.

You can easily take the train from Toronto to Niagara Falls (Ontario) either as a day trip, longer trip or as a stopover en route to New York. The Canadian side of the Falls gives great views of the Falls themselves and features both a boat ride (the Hornblower cruise, www.niagaracruises.com ) and a walk behind the Falls, www.niagaraparks.com/niagara-falls-attractions/journey-behind-the-falls.html . For trains between Niagara Falls and New York, see the section below .

Option 1, by once-daily VIA Rail train from Ca$28

A daily direct VIA Rail train called the Maple Leaf links Toronto Union Station and Niagara Falls Ontario on its way to & from New York. It's ideal for a day trip, and uses comfortable Amtrak Amfleet cars with coach class, a small business class section and a cafe car, even though it is operated by VIA Rail Canada on the section between Toronto and Niagara - an Amtrak crew take over at Niagara.

Outward: Toronto Union Station depart 08:20 every day, Niagara Falls Ontario VIA station arrive 10:20.

Inbound: Niagara Falls Ontario VIA station depart 17:45, Toronto Union arrive 19:43.

Fares from around $28 each way including taxes.

Buy tickets at www.viarail.ca , or buy at Omio.com or 12go.com in multiple currencies & languages .

Reservation is compulsory but it's usually possible to get tickets on the day.

Option 2, by GO Transit direct train from Ca$21

GO Transit operates three daily trains from Toronto to Niagara Falls (Canada) every day, including a useful morning one. The trains are distinctive green & white double-deck GO Transit trains, see the photos below.

Departures from Toronto : Weekdays at 09:52, 17:12, 22:40. Saturdays at 09:03, 13:03, 18:21. Sundays at 09:03,

Departures from Niagara Falls Canada : Weekdays at 06:32, 13:10, 21:10. Saturdays at 12:05, 16:05, 21:05. Sundays at 12:05, 16:05, 20:05.

Journey time 2h15.

Fares start at Ca$21.15 each way.

If the timing of these few direct trains doesn't suit you, use the hourly train+bus combo shown in option 3 below.

Check times & buy tickets at www.viarail.ca or www.gotransit.com .

When using www.viarail.ca , the direct GO Transit trains are shown in the search results with as green GO logo. The train+bus combo departures (option 3 below) are shown with a grey train & bus icon.

Option 3: By GO Transit train/bus combo from Ca$21 each way

Roughly every hour through the day, distinctive double-decker GO trains link Toronto Union Station with Burlington station, from where a connecting bus runs to Niagara Falls Bus Terminal (located directly across the road from Niagara Falls Ontario rail station). Total journey time 2h47 - roughly 1h05 train and 1h30 bus. This is a simple turn-up-and-go service, no reservation is necessary, it cannot sell out, just buy a ticket for Ca$18 at the station (or bus terminal) immediately before departure. As it needs no pre-planning it's ideal for the return part of a day trip from Toronto, as you don't need to commit to a specific time to come back.

You can check bus-rail times at either www.viarail.ca or www.gotransit.com . When using www.viarail.ca , the train+bus combo departures are shown in the search results with a grey train & bus icon. Any direct GO Transit trains (option 2 above) will be shown with as green GO logo.

Where are the station & bus terminal? See map showing station, bus terminal & Falls

Niagara Falls (Ontario) Station & Niagara Falls Bus Terminal are just across the road from each other in the old downtown area. The falls themselves (and all the tourist attractions) are a mile or two to the south, a taxi to the Falls costs around Ca$14 + tip and take 5-10 minutes. You'll find plenty of taxis waiting at the station and bus terminal. The station is sometimes called the GO Station, but it's the same one used by VIA Rail. Map showing location of Niagara Falls VIA Rail station, Bus Terminal & the Falls .

Visiting the Falls

Vancouver to victoria & seattle, vancouver to victoria by bus & ferry.

If you're going to Vancouver, don't miss a trip to the British Columbia provincial capital Victoria, on Vancouver Island. Regular buses link Vancouver with Victoria in about 3½ hours, going on board a ferry to reach the Island.

See bcfconnector.com for times, fares & online booking.

Vancouver to Seattle by train

Two daily articulated Spanish-designed Talgo trains link Seattle with Vancouver, one morning, one evening. For details, see www.amtrakcascades.com or www.amtrak.com .

You can also travel between Vancouver and Seattle via Victoria, using bus to Victoria ( bcfconnector.com ) , then the fast ferry to Seattle ( www.clippervacations.com ).

Victoria to Seattle by fast ferry

There is an excellent daily fast catamaran service between Victoria and Seattle, see www.clippervacations.com .

Vancouver Island train service: Victoria-Nanaimo-Courtenay The Malahat

Railcar service. This used to run every day on the 225 km route, leaving Victoria 08:00 Mon-Sat, 10:00 Sundays, returning in the afternoon. Unfortunately, this service has been suspended for some years now due to the condition of the track.

New York to Toronto & Montreal

Two excellent trains link New York with Montreal & Toronto every day, with inexpensive fares, comfortable reclining seats, a café car & great scenery along the Hudson River Valley. It's a day well spent, highly recommended. The Adirondack from New York to Montreal is run by Amtrak, the Maple Leaf from New York to Toronto is run by Amtrak whilst in the USA then by VIA Rail when in Canada. Watch the video . Map showing location of Niagara Falls VIA Rail & Amtrak stations & the Falls .

Update summer 2024: The Adirondack will not run from 20 May to 9 September 2024, due to trackwork.

New York-Montreal starts at $70 in coach class.

New York to Toronto starts at $134 in coach class or $169 in business class.

Buy tickets at www.amtrak.com or www.viarail.ca

You print your own ticket or (if booked with Amtrak) you can show it on the Amtrak app on your phone.

Tip: The booking systems show the Maple Leaf as two separate trains either side of the Canadian border with two different train numbers. But rest assured that it is indeed one direct train, run by Amtrak in the USA and taken over by VIA Rail when in Canada. You get off at the border to go through border formalities, see the border controls paragraph below.

What are the trains like?

The New York-Toronto Maple Leaf has two coach class cars with extra-legroom long-distance reclining seats which are prioritised for passengers to/from Canada, two coach class cars with regular seats & a cafe-car with a tables area, serving counter and 17 business class seats - see the photos below. The café car accepts USD & credit cards but not CAD whilst in the USA. Business class offers leather seats arranged 2+1 across the car width and complimentary tea, coffee or soft drinks from the cafe car, although leg room is no more generous than in the long-distance coach class cars where it is already excellent.

The New York-Montreal Adirondack has coach class seats with extra-legroom long-distance reclining seats & a cafe car. The café car accepts USD & credit cards but not CAD whilst in the USA.

Luggage arrangements

These trains don't have checked baggage, you simply take your luggage with you onto the train and put it on the racks just as you would on any European train. There are floor-standing racks and spacious racks above all seats. Luggage limits are far more generous than for planes, you can take one personal bag and two large bags with you, see www.amtrak.com/baggage-policy .

Border control arrangements

Northbound : When leaving from New York Penn Station Moynihan Train Hall, you must first go to the Canada check-in desk, open an hour or two before departure. Staff at that desk will check your ticket and passport and ask how many bags you’re taking. They'll give you a luggage tag for each of your bags plus a boarding pass that says you've been checked in for Canada. Lines then form for the train, one for domestic passengers and one for international passengers, the latter are allowed to board first, waved forward to the two extra-legroom long-distance coach class cars at the front of the train. Approaching the border, the train calls at Niagara Falls USA, then rumbles slowly across the bridge over the Niagara River to Niagara Falls Canada station. Here, all passengers get off with their luggage, enter the station building and file through Canadian border control (which is pretty painless) and re-board the train. There's usually plenty of time for this.

Southbound: Leaving from Montreal or Toronto, passengers bound for the USA are given numbered luggage tags for their bags whilst waiting to board, there's then a brief ticket & ID check on the platform. At Niagara Falls USA passengers get off with their luggage, go through US border controls and re-board the train.

What's the journey like?

The most important tip of all is to get a seat on the left hand side of the train going north out of New York, right hand side going south from Canada , so you are on the side with all the Hudson River views. These trains are all-reserved, meaning the number of passengers cannot exceed the number of seats, but you don't get a specific assigned seat. If a group of you want to sit together, or you want seats on the left hand side, it pays to queue up early and get on first.

Historically, trains heading along the Hudson River towards Albany would have left from New York's wonderful Grand Central Station, but a connecting line opened in the early 1990s allows all Amtrak trains to use Penn Station. The train leaves Penn station heading northwest, but shortly afterwards it turns northeast on what was originally a freight line in tunnels under the west side of Manhattan. It emerges into daylight alongside the Hudson River, joining the line that came out of Grand Central.

Both the Maple Leaf & Adirondack then travel along the scenic Hudson River Valley with the rails often right next to the river, passing West Point Military Academy, Bannerman's Island, Storm King Mountain and other sights. You'll even see the occasional historic lighthouse in mid-Hudson!

At Albany Rensselaer station the locomotive is changed from an electro-diesel (which can operate on electric power in the Penn Station tunnels) to a regular diesel, both Maple Leaf and Adirondack stop here long enough for you to stretch your legs on the platform.

After leaving Albany, the Maple Leaf turns west and crosses the Hudson on a vast steel bridge with great views of the city of Albany on the left hand side on the far bank. It then leaves the Hudson behind and starts following the Mohawk River. Look out for the vast derelict Buffalo Central Terminal , a railroad station operational from 1929-1979, on the right hand side just before the train reaches the current Buffalo Exchange Street station. After calling at Niagara Falls USA, the train rumbles slowly across the bridge over the Niagara River separating the United States from Canada. You can't see the falls themselves from the train, but can see the spray in the distance. The train then rounds Lake Ontario into Toronto.

After leaving Albany, the Adirondack heads north through the scenic Adirondack Mountains which give the train its name. You'll get views of Lake Champlain on the right of the train going north to Montreal, left heading south from Montreal.

Watch the video: New York to Toronto

The rocky mountaineer.

Rocky Mountaineer trains run regularly from mid-April to mid-October on the following routes:

Other trains in Canada

Jasper - prince george - prince rupert: the skeena.

Runs 3 times a week, departing Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays from both Jasper & Prince Rupert.

It's an amazingly scenic 2-day journey, the train stopping overnight at Prince George so you see it all in daylight (you will need to book a hotel separately, it's not included in the fare). Economy class seating is available all year round, 'Touring' class seating is available mid-June to late September. There's a 'Park' lounge-observation-dome car attached at the rear, for all passengers off-season, only for Touring class passengers in peak season (June-Sept). For times, fares & online booking, see www.viarail.ca .

Winnipeg to Churchill: The Hudson Bay

Runs 3 times a week, to the land where the polar bears live. See www.viarail.ca .

Toronto-North Cochrane-Moosonee (Ontario Northland)

Long-distance train service due north out of Toronto, run by Ontario Northland, see ontarionorthland.ca . Their Toronto to Cochrane route closed from 28 September 2012 with replacement by bus, some Cochrane to Moosonee train service seems to hvae continued. Please check the current situation at ontarionorthland.ca .

Railpasses for Canada

CanRail passes for unlimited travel on VIA Rail in Economy Class seats were discontinued during the pandemic and have not reappeared, check with VIA at www.viarail.ca .

Even when a pass existed, you still needed to make reservations, you could not hop on and off without reserving. And it was for seats, not sleepers. You could make reservations online at www.viarail.ca , but you could only use your pass where an Economy or Escape fare was available, if these were sold out and the only fare available was an Economy Plus fare, you couldn't use the pass. Although if you bought an 'Extra' type pass, you could also book Economy Plus tickets starting from the day before departure.

Europe to Canada by ship

Southampton - new york - toronto or montreal via cunard's queen mary 2.

There are no regular direct passenger ships from the UK to Canada. However, Cunard's superb Queen Mary 2 sails from Southampton to New York roughly once a month between April & November taking 7 nights, see the Queen Mary 2 page for details . Once in New York, there are excellent daily trains to Toronto and Montreal, see the USA to Canada section above .

Tours across Canada by train

Custom-made tours with railbookers.

Train travel specialists Railbookers can arrange custom-made holidays to Canada including flights, hotels and a trip on the Canadian right across Canada. They know their stuff, look after their clients well and get a lot of repeat business.

Buy Lonely Planet from Amazon.co.uk (UK) or Amazon.com (USA)

Buy Rough Guide from Amazon.co.uk (UK) or Amazon.com (USA)

Alternatively, download just the chapters or areas you need in .PDF format from the Lonely Planet Website , from around £2.99 or US$4.95 a chapter.

The Trans-Canada Rail Guide

Trailblazer's Trans-Canada Rail Guide is well worth buying if you're planning a trans-Canada train trip.

It will help you plan your journey, has city information for all the major cities served by VIA & Rocky Mountaineer, and best of all it includes mile-by-mile lineside route guides showing what to see from the train on all the main VIA Rail & Rocky Mountaineer services.

Buy online from Amazon.co.uk .

If you live in the USA, buy from Amazon.com .

Recommended hotels

In toronto: fairmont royal york.

The Fairmont Royal York Hotel is Toronto's most famous place to stay and one of the world's classic grand hotels with over 1,000 rooms. It started life as a railway hotel, opened by the Canadian Pacific Railway in June 1929 - at that time the tallest building in the British Empire. Today it's easily the most convenient, comfortable and historic place to stay before or after catching a train, being directly across the road from Toronto Union Station. I've stayed there several times now! There's more historical information about the hotel at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairmont_Royal_York .

In Vancouver: Fairmont Vancouver Hotel

In the centre of downtown Vancouver, next to Christ Church Cathedral and only a few blocks from the Waterfront, the Fairmont Vancouver Hotel is a former railway hotel. It was started by Canadian National Railways but completed in partnership with rival Canadian Pacific, opened in 1939 by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. It's another iconic Canadian chateau-style hotel, a true Vancouver landmark. And if your budget will stretch, Fairmont won't disappoint. If you want something a bit cheaper, try the St Regis Hotel , also excellently located downtown and also a historic Vancouver landmark, opened in 1913.

Backpacker hostels: www.hostelworld.com

www.hostelworld.com : If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels. Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in most cities at rock-bottom prices.

Flights to Canada

1) check flight prices at opodo, www.opodo.com, 2) use skyscanner to compare flight prices & routes worldwide across 600 airlines.

3) Lounge passes

Make the airport experience a little more bearable with a VIP lounge pass, it's not as expensive as you think, see www.loungepass.com

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover. It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit. An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself. Here are some suggested insurers. Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected. Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list . Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top. A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing. The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works: 1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android . 2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses. 3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card. 4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app. You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader. The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out). I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great. See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing. W hy you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure. A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi. It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply. See VPNs & why you need one explained . ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription. I get a small commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged. I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet. Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from buy from Amazon.com .

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Complete Guide to Taking the Train Across Canada

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: February 10, 2022 - Last updated: July 5, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking and making a purchase through the links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my disclaimer for more information. This and display ads allow me to keep the site up to date and give back .

Wondering about taking the train across Canada? I’ve done it twice in each direction, and it truly is one of my favorite adventures of all time.

Taking the passenger train across Canada is the best way to travel through my beautiful country.

This scenic journey will take you through the Atlantic Coast, Ontario’s great lakes, the Prairies, and the stunning Rocky Mountains of Alberta and British Colombia.

If you’re planning a trip to Canada, taking the train is a wonderful way to get around the country and see all the incredible landscapes.

In this guide, I’ll lay out everything you need to know about the cross-Canada train, including routes, prices, and why this experience should be on your Canada bucket list.

How I took the Train across Canada Twice (for free)

I always dreamed of a rail trip across Canada, but I could never justify it on my budget. Then, the most fortunate turn of events happened to me.

I was mid-way through my trip around the world in Vancouver for a family wedding. I wanted to spend the summer going across the country to my hometown, St. John’s , and was trying to figure out the cheapest way to get across the country by land as I was on a tight budget.

Then I got a call from VIA Rail Canada, who told me that I had won their 40th-anniversary contest! The prize was two round-trip tickets for VIA Rail across Canada train tickets. I couldn’t believe it; the timing was perfect.

Even though I had two years to use the tickets, I wanted to go almost immediately. VIA Rail was surprised at how quickly I wanted to redeem my prize, but they kindly accommodated me. Before I knew it, I was off on a VIA Train across Canada!

Canada Train Routes

You have to take two different routes to get across Canada by train.

The Canadian , the Vancouver to Toronto train (or visa versa), and the Ocean , the Montreal to Halifax train.

You can take a regular VIA Rail commuter train to get between Toronto and Montreal. They aren’t as nice but run every day, and it only takes about five hours. By Canada distances, five hours is basically next-door.

The Canadian Train from Vancouver to Toronto

The train that brings people between Vancouver and Toronto (or vice versa) is The Canadian. It starts in Toronto at Union Station or in Vancouver at Pacific Station.

Toronto and Vancouver are both lovely cities to explore while traveling in Canada .

Toronto was my home for years, and I never get bored of exploring the city with so many things to do.

If you’re looking for a nice place to stay in Toronto, check out my post about the best boutique hotels in Toronto.

Vancouver is one of Canada’s most beautiful cities, sitting at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains . It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, especially with so many options for weekend trips from Vancouver.

Check here for the best rates on accommodation in Vancouver.

girl holding train tickets in train station downtown vancouver

During the train ride from Vancouver to Toronto, you will pass through the Canadian Rockies with stops in Kamloops, Jasper, and Edmonton – Alberta’s capital city.

The views are breathtaking along the way, passing through some of the most beautiful places in Alberta.

After leaving Alberta, you enter Saskatchewan. The train journey across Canada was my first time seeing Saskatchewan, and I was pleasantly surprised at how beautiful the landscapes were. The bright green endless canola fields are gorgeous in the summertime.

From there, the Canadian train stops in Winnipeg, Sioux Lookout, and a long but beautiful journey through Northern Ontario with a stop in Sudbury before arriving in Toronto.

I loved this train route, especially the part between Vancouver and Edmonton.

In Edmonton, they add on an extra panoramic window train cart with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, so you get the most stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.

girl staring out of train in British colombia

The Ocean Train from Montreal to Halifax

The Ocean train route map from Montreal to Halifax

The train journey between Montreal and Halifax is called The Ocean. It starts at either Montreal’s Central station or Halifax, and has many stops throughout Quebec and New Brunswick.

This train route only takes 23 hours, which doesn’t give you as much time to get to know the staff and other guests compared to The Canadian .

The train they use for the Ocean route is slightly different from the Canadian. It’s a newer train, but the rooms felt smaller.

The food is excellent (yay seafood!), and the scenery is stunning—especially the section closer to Halifax that goes along the water.

I loved my experience on both trains, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be the Canadian train route.

What to Expect On the Train Ride Across Canada

Accommodation on the train.

Your accommodation on the train depends on the ticket class you have. There are three tiers:

Economy. An economy ticket will get you a regular seat on the train. However, economy passengers don’t have access to the dining/activity carts. There is a place to buy food onboard the economy section, but it’s an additional cost.

Sleeper class. All passengers in this class have access to the dining/activity cars. Plus, meals come with the sleeper class ticket, which is great because the food on the train is amazing. There are various bed options in sleeper class:

The best (and most expensive) option within the sleeper class is the one or two-bed private cabin with a bathroom.

The other sleeper class options are only semi-private. One of them is a bench seat that folds out into a bed, with a curtain to close at night. The bathroom is shared.

I also saw semi-private rooms with a similar bench/bed combo, but with a toilet inside with a lid that goes over it to turn it into another seat. Sleeping/sitting next to a toilet all day didn’t appeal to me, so I’d probably go with one of the other options.

Prestige Class: The ultimate class. The private cabins used to be first-class, but recently VIA Rail has made upgrades with new prestige carts. This is the luxury train across Canada!

The prestige rooms are soundproof, which is a massive plus because it can be noisy on the train. Inside the rooms, there is an l-shaped couch that folds out into a double bed, a large flat-screen TV, and massive windows to take in the views. And the best part – the rooms come with unlimited alcohol.

The catch? The VIA rail Prestige class price is around $10,000, and they are only available on the Toronto to Vancouver route. Unfortunately the prestige cart didn’t come as part of my prize, but VIA Rail was kind enough to let me see inside one of the prestige carts.

girl staring out window in prestige cart via rail

My prize was the two-person cabin which felt prestigious for a backpacker. It had a set of bunk beds, a sink, and a separate room with a toilet (showers are outside of the room). It’s a tight fit with two people, but I found it perfect when coming back as one person.

Another perk of prestige class is having access to an exclusive lounge. This cart is much nicer than any of the other viewing carts on the train.

After 4 pm, they allow all the other sleeper class passengers access to the prestige car. However, there are limited seats, so it’s a good idea to get there at 4 pm or even a few minutes before if you want to guarantee a seat.

The best part about the cart is that it’s at the back of the train, so you get views like this.

views of the rocky mountains from back of via rail train across canada

Amazing Scenery

The scenery is the best part of a Canada train trip. Getting to see the changing landscapes from coast to coast is an unforgettable experience. I feel lucky to come from such a beautiful and diverse country.

Some of my highlights on the train ride across Canada were passing through Jasper National Park, Mount Robson, Fraser Canyon in British Colombia, the Canola fields of Saskatchewan, the never-ending lakes and trees of Northern Ontario , and along the ocean near Halifax. All of the sunsets on the train were magical.

sunset on the vancouver to toronto train

The best part about taking the train both ways across Canada is that you get to see parts of the country where it may have been dark before.

For example, coming back on the Toronto to Vancouver train, we passed a beautiful stretch near the border of Manitoba and Winnipeg, which I hadn’t seen before.

The most beautiful part of the train ride is between Vancouver and Jasper. If you can only do one section of the train, this is what I’d recommend.

views of forest on the Panoramic train cart canada

Incredible Food

Dining on the train tour across Canada was one of my favorite parts of the experience. I wasn’t expecting much, but the food was incredible. They serve you three meals a day and do not skip out on quantity or quality.

At each meal, you get a menu with four options. Some examples of the entrees we ate included veal, braised lamb, duck, and salmon, and they always have one vegetarian option on the menu.

They tailor the menu to the region you’re traveling through in Canada, adding to the experience. Expect great beef through Alberta and fantastic seafood on the East Coast.

Dessert comes with lunch and supper, which almost felt cruel because the desserts are SO GOOD. Like millions of decadent calorie good. Train calories don’t count, right?

They also provide snacks on the activity cart 24 hours a day, including fruit, pastries, juice, and water. You likely won’t get hungry between meals because the food is filling, and being on the train is a pretty sedentary activity. I actually gained several pounds on the train!

Activities on the train across Canada East to West

The staff at VIA Rail are fantastic. They go above and beyond to make sure you have a great experience.

There are two activity carts on the train where the staff will do onboard activities, many of which are alcohol-related.

When you depart from Vancouver, Toronto, and Jasper, the staff organize a champagne departure toast (Pro tip: you can get seconds or thirds. Just ask).

They also have daily beer and or wine tastings where you can get a chance to sample local brews. There is also a paid bar on the train, but it’s not the cheapest. A beer is $10 CAD.

Champagne toast rail travel across canada

In the activity carts, there are board games and cards to play. Sometimes they play movies or host trivia and bingo games with prizes of Canadian souvenirs. Not going to lie; I got pretty into bingo on the train.

Sometimes they have live entertainment on the train in the activity carts. If you are an artist, you can apply to VIA Rail as a performer.

If you get accepted, you’ll get free accommodation and food in exchange for performing a few sessions on the train. What a great opportunity for traveling artists!

Admiring the beautiful scenery along the train ride is the best way to spend time. One thing I loved about the train ride is that the staff will come on the intercom and give visitors information about any points of interest you pass through.

They even slow down for scenic spots, like Pyramid falls in Alberta

Wi-Fi on the Canada train

There is no Wi-Fi on the Canadian train, and there are many points where your cell phone reception won’t work.

During the stretch through Northern Ontario, I didn’t have any signal for about 24 hours. You will have plenty to see and do during the day, but it’s a good idea to bring some entertainment for nighttime after dinner.

I recommend a Kindle E-reader with a Kindle Unlimited Subscription, which gives you access to 1 million titles for just $9.99 a month. As a frequent traveler, I love having the Kindle unlimited subscription since it gives me access to so many books for less than the cost of one.

There was Wi-Fi advertised on the Montreal to Halifax train, but I couldn’t get it to work for me. Nevertheless, the train is the perfect way to detox from life – so make sure to bring a good book and enjoy the ride!

How long does it take traveling across Canada by train?

To go from Vancouver to Halifax, you can expect to be on the train for five to six days.

The Vancouver to Toronto train is three nights/four days, and the train from Montreal to Halifax is one full day (24 hours). The commuter train between Montreal and Toronto takes about five hours.

Delays on the train are common because the Canadian National Railway owns the railway tracks, and VIA Rail rents the use of them.

Since there is only one track, CN Railway has the right of way, and therefore VIA Rail has to stop to get out of the way when a freight train is coming.

They don’t know how much freight traffic there will be, so delays are common. On my first trip across the train from Vancouver to Toronto, we were 12 hours delayed by the scheduled time.

However, in November 2018, they updated the schedule to more accurately reflect how long it will take.

When I came back on the train from Toronto to Vancouver the new times were in effect, and we were right on schedule. Just prepare yourself to frequently stop because of freight traffic and that a delay can still occur. VIA Rail Canada doesn’t advise booking any onward travel the same day as scheduled to arrive.

You can view the most recent train schedule times on the VIA Rail Website.

Can you get off at stops?

Presuming the train is on schedule, they allow you to get off at some stops. Unfortunately, because we got so delayed on the train from Vancouver to Toronto, we only had time for quick 10-minute stops.

However, coming back West from Toronto to Vancouver, we had longer stops. The two main stops on the train ride from Toronto to Vancouver are a two-hour stop in Winnipeg and a three-hour stop in Jasper.

Both train stops are in great locations for exploring. The train stop in Winnipeg is centrally located, and they even make arrangements with a tour guide that will meet you at the station for a sightseeing tour of the downtown area for an additional $10.

Jasper is a small town, and the train station is right off the main strip, so you will have time to explore the charming downtown area of Jasper .

You can even head into some nearby trails in Jasper National Park if you feel like a hike. If you can, I suggest getting off at Jasper and spending a few nights . It’s one of my favorite places in the world.

train station at sunset in jasper alberta canada

Best time to take a train ride through Canada

The train across Canada runs year-round, and there’s no “perfect” time to take it. All the seasons have pros and cons.

I love summer, so taking the train in June/August was perfect for me. I loved the sunny days and long nights, allowing lots of time to soak in the scenery.

On the other hand, taking the train during winter would be a pretty magical experience. Imagine seeing the snow-covered mountains while being warm and cozy inside the train. But you’d need to bring warm winter clothes with you!

Then you have autumn when the leaves are changing color. One of the staff members told me this was their favorite time to be on the train, and I can imagine why.

One of the best parts about Canada is that we experience all four seasons, so pick your favorite one and take the train then!

Cross Canada Train Ride Cost

Taking the train in Canada is not the cheapest thing to do, but there are ways to make it work even on a budget.

The sleeper train across Canada cost varies significantly between economy, sleeper, and prestige class. Economy is the cheapest but has the fewest amenities.

I haven’t taken the train in economy class, so I can’t speak too much about it, but I know others who have said they enjoyed the experience. You get the same scenery, and it’s easier to meet people since you’re all on the same cart.

Check the VIA Rail website for the most recent prices. They frequently have sales, so it’s good to keep your eyes out (and for contests)! Tuesday is the cheapest day of the week to buy train tickets.

Downsides of Cross Canada train trips

While taking a train across Canada is a magical experience, there are some downsides.

It isn’t a quick way to travel across Canada. If you’ve got limited vacation time and want to see a lot of the country, flying may be a better option.

The reality is that Canada is a massive country, and it takes a long time to get between places. The train is also prone to delays, so if you’ve got a tight schedule, it may not be the best option.

My biggest pet peeve with the train is that it doesn’t truly go across Canada because Newfoundland isn’t part of the train route. This is no fault to VIA Rail, the Toronto to Newfoundland train stopped working years ago due to a foolish decision by the government.

If you want to experience all of Canada, then you’ll have to include Newfoundland on your itinerary because it’s unlike anywhere else in the country.

The best way to visit Newfoundland after taking the train cross Canada is to rent a car in Halifax, spend a few nights , and then go on an East Coast Canada road trip.

From Halifax, you can drive to Cape Breton Island (which is home to one of Canada’s most scenic road trip s). And from Sydney, Cape Breton , there is a ferry that goes to Newfoundland.

The shorter ferry option is to go to Port Aux Basque, which is on the West coast of Newfoundland. This is a great place to start your trip if you want to visit Gros Morne National Park , just three hours away. From there, you can drive through Central Newfoundland all the way to St. John’s.

Tips for a Train Trip Across Canada

Book on Tuesday. VIA Rail has the cheapest offers posted on Tuesdays, so wait to book then. They also run promotions frequently, so keep an eye out for deals.
Pack light! The cabins are cozy so there won’t be much room for extra luggage. We shared a two-bed cabin with a 75L backpacking bag each and managed, but there wasn’t much additional space.
Expect delays. Although the train times are updated, delays are still prevalent due to the unpredictably on the freight trains.
Don’t book onward travel for the same day of arrival in case of delays . Instead, spend a couple of days exploring these amazing Canadian cities
Be prepared to disconnect. The train does not come equipped with Wi-Fi, and there are large parts of the journey where your cell phone won’t work. Embrace this time and enjoy the views!

Facts about Canada

Canada has two official languages – English and French. English is widely spoken throughout the country, but French is the main language in Quebec.

Visa requirements: Many countries, including the United States and those within the EU, can enter Canada for six months without a visa.

Consult the Government of Canada website to see what your country’s requirements are. An electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for all visa-free travelers except Americans. It cost $7, and you can apply online.

Staying Connected – Canada has some of the worst cellular data rates in the world. The cheapest plans are with low-cost carriers like Sprint, but the service will be spotty outside of major cities. Bell, Rogers, and Telus/Koodo are the three main carriers that provide coverage across the country. The easiest and cheapest way to get data in Canada is to get an eSIM from one of these providers.

lora wearing a bright blue winter jacket standing in front of lake louise. the mountains in the background are covered in snow.

Arriving in Canada

Flying: Canada has 17 international airports, with the biggest being Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver International Airport (YVR), and Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL).

If you are flying from another country you will likely land in one of these airports and connect to the other provinces via a regional flight, although sometimes you can get a direct international flight.

Land: Canada shares the world’s largest unmanned border with the United States. There are several points of entry in each province. Road-tripping is one of the best ways to visit Canada.

By Boat: Canada is connected to both the Atlantic and Pacific ocean as well as some of the biggest lakes in the world. Thousands of cruises come here every year. There are port authorities in Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and British Colombia.

travelers standing on the skywalk in jasper national park. in the distance are large mountain peaks covered in snow.

Safety and solo travel in Canada

One of the best parts about traveling to Canada, especially for solo female travelers, is that it is incredibly safe! Canada ranks six on the Global Peace Index , making it one of the safest countries in the world to visit.

Canadians have a reputation for being some of the friendliest people in the world, and I like to believe this is true (I’ve also been told it is by many people).

We LOVE to help people, so if you’re lost or have a question, don’t be afraid to ask. Locals are friendly and love to chat. If you ask a local a question in Newfoundland, you’ll probably end up having your ear talked off and then be invited in for a cup of tea (which is perfectly safe to do).

It’s easy to meet people in Canada, making it a great country for solo travelers.

lora wearing a hiking backpack with arms wide open overlooking a beautiful view on top of gros morne mountain in newfoundland. in the background are winding rivers through the mountains.

Other Canadian Train Trips

There is another Canadian train trip you can take called the Rocky Mountaineer.

It’s a separate train with three rail routes through the Rocky Mountains in British Colombia and Alberta, including stops in Banff National Park , Lake Louise, and Jasper National Park. I haven’t had a chance to take this train yet, but it’s definitely on my bucket list.

How long does a trip across Canada by train?

What is the best train trip in canada.

The Canadian train, which goes from Vancouver to Toronto, is the best way to travel across Canada. You’ll get a taste of all the diverse landscapes in Canada, from the rocky mountains of the west to the great lakes of Ontario.

Is there a train that goes across Canada?

Does via rail go across Canada? Almost! There is a train that goes from Vancouver to Toronto and a train from Montreal to Halifax, but there is no train to Newfoundland from Toronto.

I loved my experience taking the cross Canada train. I can’t thank VIA Rail enough for this incredible opportunity; it made my entire year! It’s one of the best ways to see the diverse landscapes of this country without having to worry about driving.

Have you taken the train in Canada before? Or do you have a similar train route in your own home country? Let me know in the comments below!

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Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

A Guide to Train Travel in Canada

Train travel is a comfortable, convenient, relatively affordable way to get around Canada, though visitors should realize the Canadian rail system has nowhere near the reach, regularity, or overall convenience of, for example, the European rail service. In addition, train travel tends to be relatively expensive in Canada, though this is changing in some of the more major corridors.

VIA Rail is the only major train operator in Canada. It transits across Canada from the most eastern point in Halifax, Nova Scotia, to Vancouver , B.C. in the west. For the most part, it travels across the southern part of the country, where the population is the most concentrated, with occasional forays more north. The busiest VIA Rail route is the Quebec to Windsor corridor, which includes Montreal and Toronto .

VIA does not operate in any of Canada's three territories or the Atlantic provinces of Prince Edward Island or Newfoundland and Labrador.

VIA Rail has economy and a VIA 1, or business class, sections. Sleeper cars are available on the long routes. VIA's reputation among passengers is average. The most frequent complaints are that trains are late or have to make long stops (often waiting for the freight trains with track priority to pass by). WiFi is available but historically spotty.

Most metropolitan areas in Canada, like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal , also have commuter train networks taking passengers from major cities to smaller, outlying cities and towns one or two hours away.

In addition to VIA Rail and local commuter trains, train operators in Canada include those of historic rail cars, novelty trains and special scenic trains, such as the Rocky Mountaineer on the West Coast.

Western Canada/Prairies: British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan

The Canadian VIA Rail network does not always make sense. For example, Calgary does not have a VIA Rail stop even though it is a major hub for people visiting Alberta and British Columbia. In contrast, VIA Rail offers service to rural communities with relatively small populations, like Churchill; however, these, routes are mandatory and government subsidized because year-round alternative transportation is not possible. Many of these off-the-beaten-track destinations can be interesting, worthwhile stops for tourists. Churchill, Manitoba, for example, is famous for its polar bear population.

The major train routes on Canada's West Coast and Prairies are between Edmonton, Jasper, and Vancouver and Edmonton, Saskatoon and Winnipeg.

The Jasper-Vancouver train provides an excellent opportunity to soak in some exquisite Rocky Mountain scenery. An overnight train with glass-domed passenger car is a lovely Canadian excursion.

Translink offers regional train service between Vancouver and its neighbouring municipalities.

Central Canada: Ontario and Quebec

Ontario and Quebec have the most active network of VIA Trains, including the busy Quebec City -Winnipeg corridor, which includes the popular run between Montreal and Toronto.

Ontario destinations of interest to visitors on the VIA Rail route include Kingston, Belleville, and Stratford (home to the popular Stratford Festival ).

GO Transit is a commuter train between Toronto and localities, including Niagara Falls , Hamilton, and Barrie. GO Trains run regularly 7 days. GO Transit also has a network of buses that run similar routes.

In Quebec, VIA Rail has a route along the Saint Lawrence River that runs from Montreal all the way northeast to Gaspe.

Atlantic Canada: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Eastern Quebec

The most common way of getting around the Maritimes (Atlantic provinces of New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia) is to rent a car or join a bus tour. Train travel is not a major means of transportation in this region of Canada VIA Rail, in fact, does not operate in PEI or Newfoundland and Labrador.

Nevertheless, VIA Rail does have a popular overnight train from Montreal to Halifax, with more than 20 stops in between.

Rocky Mountaineer

Since 1990, the Rocky Mountaineer has been taking passengers through some of Canada's most beautiful landscape while continually raising the standards of rail travel. More than just a mode of transportation, the Rocky Mountaineer offers complete packages that include fine dining, deluxe accommodation and a two-level glass domed coach with full-length windows through which you can take in the glacier-fed lakes, majestic mountains and raging rivers of Alberta and British Columbia.

Scenic, Novelty, and Heritage Trains

Canada has a fair number of heritage and novelty trains that are more about the experience than getting from point A to point B.

Canada's 4 best train trips

Nov 9, 2023 • 6 min read

See Canada from a unique vantage point – by rail © Boxcar Media / Shutterstock

Canada’s railways, operated by government-run VIA Rail , are a pillar of the country’s late 19th- and early 20th-century history. Impressive feats of engineering, the railways united the nation, delivered news and supplies to isolated communities and brought prosperity and mobility to the masses.

While passenger services may have dwindled since their high point in the 1940s, a well-oiled transcontinental rail network still spans the country's entire breadth from Vancouver in the west to Halifax in the east.

Outside the Toronto–Montreal commuter corridor, the trains remain a perennial favorite with tourists, slow travelers and those looking to sit back in a comfy carriage and absorb an endless conveyor belt of dramatic scenery.

Here are four of the best overnight train journeys in Canada you won’t want to miss.

The city of Toronto on Lake Ontario at dusk in summer

1. Vancouver to Toronto on The Canadian

4466km (2775 miles), 94 hours

When The Canadian debuted in 1955, the flagship train was a prime example of post-war railway style. Stainless steel carriages outfitted with art-deco furnishings, 360-degree observatory domes and spacious sleeping cars were The Canadian's calling card. Except for a few sporadic refurbishments, little has changed in the years since.

The train offers three different classes: Economy (seat only), Sleeper Plus (sleeping berth) and Prestige (private compartment). In contrast to planes, reclining seats are large with plenty of legroom; bathrooms are invariably well-scrubbed, and musicians, presenters and wine tastings break up the journey.

The luxury sleeper train’s restaurant offers gourmet meals from prime rib of beef to pan-roasted halibut, plus alcoholic beverages to sip while the train rocks and sways through the countryside.

Heading east, The Canadian departs late on the Vancouver -to- Toronto leg, so travelers have to wait until the following day to enjoy the scenery: flashes of evergreen British Columbian forests, mountain peaks (including – if you’re lucky – Mt Robson, the Canadian Rockies’ highest peak), dozens of river valleys and waterfalls, and animals like grazing elks, moose and, maybe, a bear or two (train staff will announce sightings).

The train passes through Mt Robson Provincial Park and Jasper National Park , where it stops for 90 minutes in the mountain town of Jasper. The scenery from here on flattens out with the line bisecting vast prairie land that continues for hours – across Alberta , Saskatchewan and Manitoba , also known as the breadbasket of Canada.

Yellow canola flowers, hemp and flax form massive carpets of color. Wooden grain elevators stand like track sentinels against the flat landscape where – locals joke – they can see a stray dog running away for three days. Finally, the train rattles into Toronto, where this mammoth overland odyssey ends.

More info: VIA Rail Canada – The Canadian

2. Montréal to Halifax on The Ocean

1346km (836 miles), 20 hours

This two-day, one-night journey runs along the Gulf of St Lawrence and through New Brunswick before terminating on Nova Scotia ’s eastern coast. In operation since 1904, it’s North America’s oldest named route in continuous service.

When traveling west to east, evening falls just after the train leaves Québec , meaning riders miss some of the scenery. Morning, however, reveals the beautiful Gulf of St Lawrence (a few are lucky enough to spot whales in the St Lawrence River).

From here, it’s vista overload: from water (the train crosses the wide Miramichi River, famous for its Atlantic salmon); to the Sugarloaf Mountain, an ancient volcano; then on to quaint Acadian communities that fly blue-and-red flags reflecting their French roots. And speaking of colors, fall is a stunning time to make this trip when the leaves turn rich shades of red, gold and yellow.

More info: VIA Rail Canada – The Ocean

Two polar bears standing in snowy coastal brush

3. Winnipeg to Churchill

1697km (1054 miles), 36 hours

Billed as one of VIA Rail's five "adventure routes," this two-day, two-night journey from Winnipeg to the waters of the Hudson Bay is considered a "remote service journey."

Once you're north of the tiny town of Gillam, there's no road or plane access. The train is an essential lifeline for the First Nations people, from whose communities the route is accessible. Along this route, anyone can come up to the track and hold up their hand. The driver must stop and let them on (along with their canoes under 5.5m/18ft long).

Beyond Gillam, the landscape gradually morphs into tundra: an expansive, treeless, flat muskeg (an Algonquin word for bog). It’s slow-going here – the train track dips and shifts because of an extraordinary 12m (39ft) of permafrost that thaws and freezes repetitively.

As for those strange white poles in the landscape: they’re tripods supporting communication posts. If you’re lucky, you might spot herds of caribou and, closer to Churchill , polar bears, the ursine beasts for which the town is famous.

When night falls, keep your blinds up. Low light pollution ensures excellent stargazing and a good chance to be dazzled by the aurora borealis (northern lights).

More info: VIA Rail Canada – Winnipeg to Churchill

A woman looks out the window of a train car at the scenery in Jasper National Park

4. Jasper to Prince Rupert on The Rupert Rocket

1160km (721 miles), two days

This lesser-known sojourn across the unheralded wilds of central British Columbia is little frequented by the international set. The exception is those on organized day trips from Jasper , who'll join the train for the first three hours as far as McBride in British Columbia.

To maximize daylight vistas, the trip is split over two days with an overnight in the nondescript town of Prince George. You'll have to organize your own accommodation .

Conceived in the early 20th century, the Jasper-to- Prince-Rupert service combines unadulterated backcountry scenery with plenty of chances to meet the northern British Columbia locals. Folks will flag the three-times-a-week service to call on "neighbors," visit the dentist or get to the nearest hardware store.

Glassy lakes, gritty backcountry and diminutive lumber and agricultural towns where the only civic buildings are a gnarly station and a generic Tim Hortons (Canada’s ubiquitous doughnut cafe) speckle the route.

Adding to the excitement are plenty of wildlife-spotting opportunities, plus vintage steel-sided carriages that echo the golden age of streamlined travel. The train is fondly nicknamed the Rupert Rocket.

Touring class, including all meals, staff commentaries and access to a panoramic car, only runs from June through September. In the off-peak months (ie, the ones without touring class availability), Economy passengers have access to the sightseeing lounge with swivel chairs.

More info: VIA Rail Canada – Jasper to Prince Rupert

Planning Tips

The earlier you book, the cheaper the fare you’re likely to get; book tickets through VIA Rail .
One complimentary stopover is allowed on a long-haul train ticket, giving you a chance to wander around (and catch the next train coming through) or head off on a multiday hike.
On-board luggage is limited to one small carry-on and two larger checked bags (max 23kg / 50lbs each). Overweight bags won't be allowed to board.
Don’t book any other activity or onward travel on the day of arrival due to possible delays (with the exception of the more straightforward city-to-city routes, such as Toronto to Quebec City).
Any time of the year is good for train travel. Winter snows provide a stunning dimension, especially over the Rockies (regular freight train traffic ensures the tracks are always clear).
Canadian trains qualify as slow travel. Don’t expect Japanese bullet trains or French TGVs. Passenger trains in Canada defer to freight, so you'll often spend 30 minutes or more waiting in a siding for another train to pass.
Seniors over the age of 60 with a CAA can save up to 20% on fares.

On-board tips for a more comfortable trip

If heading west, take the last dinner sitting to maximize the daylight hours to watch the scenery.
Don’t miss some of the special activities offered on some services, from the heritage interpretations talks (on prairies, potash etc) to beer tastings.
Wi-fi is not available on The Canadian, Rupert Rocket and Winnipeg–Churchill services

This article was first published Jul 1, 2019 and updated Nov 9, 2023.

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The 11 Best Canadian Train Trips

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Canada is second only to Russia when it comes to land mass, which means seeing the country's vast wilderness can be overwhelming. Luckily, Canadian train trips criss-cross most of it, and these rail journeys allow you to take in some of the world's most spectacular scenery, stress-free. Just imagine: the nation's vistas unfolding before you slowly (or swiftly, depending on your chariot) while you remain in the comfort of your seat. On top of that, some of the Canada's most remote—and beautiful—spots lack road access, so a train ride may also be the only way to visit. All the more reason to climb on board .

Read on to learn more about 11 of the most beautiful Canadian train trips you can take across the Great White North, as well as some recommendations for where to stay at the beginning or at the end of your railroad adventure. (And for more fabulous train rides, check out the results of Condé Nast Traveler 's Readers' Choice Awards 2023 to see which trains our readers voted the best in the world .)

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Via Rail passenger train travelling through Rocky Mountains British Columbia Canada.

Via Rail’s Winnipeg to Churchill

This 1,054-mile trip north feels more interplanetary than provincial, whisking you from urban Winnipeg to the tundras of Churchill , known as the polar bear capital of the world. Accessible by plane or train only, it’s also prime turf for beluga whale-watching , and possibly the world’s best perch to view the northern lights. Landscapes en route are breathtaking, with stops including tiny river towns The Pas, Thompson, and Weir River. Splurge on Via’s Sleeper Plus class for access to a bed and shower.

Where to stay: In Winnipeg, check into the impressive and century-old Fort Garry Hotel , a prime example of twentieth-century châteauesque architecture, including prominent cornices and a steep sloping copper roof. In case you needed a bit more of that old-world feel to your trip.

View of cattle grazing in front of Rocky Mountains from Foothills near Cochrane Alberta Canada

Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express, Cochrane to Moosonee

Ontario is larger than France and Spain combined, but most visitors stick to its big southern cities. Embarking from tiny Cochrane—nearly 500 miles north of Toronto —the Polar Bear Express chugs five hours further north to Moosonee, so remote it lacks road access. The route mimics a path fur traders favored centuries ago, through a primeval landscape of thick forests and winding rivers. Note that reaching Cochrane involves a flight to northeastern Timmins and an overnight bus ride.

Where to stay: Break up your adventure with a night at Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa in Timmins, Ontario. The place is all about rural and cozy vibes, letting you bask in the natural beauty of nearby Gillies Lake Park and Hollinger Park.

Agawa Canyon Tour Train, Ontario

It’s only accessible by trail or rail, which makes Agawa Canyon Wilderness Park near Sault Sainte-Marie such a thrill to visit. Hop on and off this 90-minute ride as you pass four dramatic waterfalls and a trail system that overflows with pristine natural beauty. Bonus: Beavers, the most Canadian of critters, traipse through here frequently.

Where to stay: Since this tour train takes just an hour and a half, you'll need a place to rest your head in Sault Sainte-Marie before continuing your journey. Luckily, the Delta Hotels by Marriott Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront is near the station, and offers cool views of Saint Mary's River and the United States beyond.

Royal Canadian Rockies Experience, Banff to Calgary, Alberta

Canada’s glitziest train ride is also one of its most cinematic, passing through splendid Banff and Lake Louise, along with jaw-dropping sights like Alberta’s Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a World Heritage Site where Indigenous people hunted ruminants by enticing them to leap off a cliff. Still eager to see more? At the end of the line, you can book a helicopter trip over the Rockies for a bird's eye view.

Where to stay: In Banff, you shouldn't miss the Fairmont Banff Springs . This Scottish Baronial fortress grants you a million-dollar view of those majestic snow-dusted mountain tops, which makes the moniker “the Castle in the Rockies” all the more fitting.

Image may contain Cushion Transportation Vehicle Couch Furniture and Passenger Car

Via Rail’s The Canadian, Toronto to Vancouver

A single train journey can’t capture Canada’s magnificence, but this four-night/three-day adventure from Toronto to Vancouver comes close. You’ll take in prairies, lakes, peaks, valleys, hamlets, waterfalls, and, if you’re lucky, cameos by local wildlife like deer, elk, and bears. If you can, book a seat in Prestige Class—think concierge, superb meals, private lounges—for one of the most comfortable train trips you’ll ever take.

Where to stay: Once you're in Vancouver, keep the plush and casually fabulous energy going with a night or two at the dreamy Shangri-La Vancouver , where those who appreciate the subtleties of luxury travel won't be disappointed.

Image may contain Outdoors Nature Scenery Landscape Road Aerial View Mountain Fir Tree Abies Plant and Slope

White Pass and Yukon Route, Yukon

Even today, building a railway through the mountains, glaciers, and gorges of Gold Rush country remains an impressive feat, let alone in 1898, when this route was first built. Survey views of the Yukon, BC, and Alaska , as your train rises a gut-churning 3,000 feet in just 20 miles to the summit of White Pass. Touring such treacherous terrain will leave you appreciating how the railway helped knit a nascent Canada together.

Where to stay: There aren't many hotel options in Skagway, Alaska, where this train journey begins. That said, there are a handful of cruises that call at this Alaskan port town, including options aboard Celebrity Cruises , so you can make this a two-for-one adventure.

Rocky Mountaineer's First Passage to the West, Western Canada

If there’s one Canadian train ride that should make your bucket list, it’s the journey on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff . The whole ride is scenic, offering glimpses into the Great White North’s wildlife as well as its important Indigenous history. Thoughtful guides and storytellers onboard talk you through the locales and vistas from the comfort of your plush leather seats underneath the train cars’ glass-domed roofs. Meals here are delicious too, no matter which class of service you’re in, whether it’s SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf (though the latter’s linen-covered tables are a classy touch).

Where to stay: The Rocky Mountaineer is often spoken about in the same breath as other famous luxury train rides across the world: the Orient Express , Seven Stars Kyushu , or the Royal Scotsman . But unlike those, this isn’t a sleeper train. It travels exclusively by daylight, making the most of the scenery. At night, guests check into a hotel along the route—so your comfort throughout the journey is assured.

Image may contain Transportation Train Track Railway Rail Vehicle Train Outdoors Scenery and Nature

Train de Charlevoix, Quebec

Inaugurated in 1889, when it connected Quebec City to remote Charlevoix, this train line cruises along a glorious section of St. Lawrence coastline. Much of the scenery en route seems unchanged a century and a half later, with the mighty river on one side and lush landscapes on the other. Stops include enchanting coastal villages like Baie-St-Paul; consider splitting the journey over two days to explore. The route runs June through October.

Where to stay: Before you climb onboard the train in Quebec City, prep for your journey in old Basse-Ville (meaning “lower city”) at the boutique hotel Monsieur Jean , which offers bright and breezy digs melded with friendly Quebecois hospitality.

This image may contain Vehicle Transportation Train Train Track Railway and Rail

Via Rail, Jasper, Alberta to Prince Rupert, BC

The windows-only Dome Car on this nature-filled route offers 360-degree views of the regal Canadian Rockies. During the seven-hour train ride, you’ll also get an ocean’s worth of lakes, including beautiful Yellowhead, Lucerne, and Moose. Have more time? The train heads to coastal Prince Rupert the next morning, where whale-watching and grizzly-bear-viewing are highlights. Bonus: At the Alberta-British Columbia border, the train crosses the Continental Divide.

Where to stay: Once you're on Kaien Island and the train pulls into the port city of Prince Rupert, head for the Crest Hotel , where you can wake up to beautiful waterfront views of—what else?—Prince Rupert Harbour.

Image may contain Nature Mountain Outdoors Mountain Range Human Person Peak Ice and Snow

Rocky Mountaineer's Journey Through the Clouds, British Columbia and Alberta

The Canadian Rockies’ tallest peak, majestic Mount Robson, is the star of this ten-day journey from Vancouver to Calgary. But it’s hard to pick a highlight when your trip spans sights like British Columbia’s astonishing Hell’s Gate—twice the width of Niagara Falls—and Moose Lake, home to plenty of its namesake. You’ll also get a glimpse of the gargantuan Albreda Glacier, a landscape dating back eons.

Where to stay: When in Canada, you can't go wrong with a Fairmont, and the Fairmont Palliser in Calgary is a true beaut. Plus, it's sandwiched between the city's downtown and the Calgary Design District, so you'll have plenty of sightseeing options when you get off the train.

Image may contain Transportation Vehicle Train Train Track Rail Railway Locomotive and Building

Via Rail’s The Ocean, Montreal to Halifax

Climbing north into remotest Quebec and east into New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, this aptly-named, 836-mile trip lets the wide-open spaces and clear-blue waters unfold like aqua-tinted postcards. Bonus: The Ocean is the oldest continuously running named passenger train in North America, rolling along since 1904.

Where to stay: In Montreal you've got the pick of the litter, but the stately yet modern Hotel Birks Montreal and the classically luxurious Four Seasons Montreal take the cake. Meanwhile, in Halifax, you've got the super sleek Muir, Autograph Collection in the downtown waterfront area, and the richly cozy The Pebble Bed & Breakfast in the South End for an inn-in-the-city experience.

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The Chanler at Cliff Walk

North America Travel Guide

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5 Bucket List Train Experiences in Ontario

Northern Ontario is a landscape that is a traditional image of Canada: rugged mountains and boreal forests, maple trees, and thousands of lakes and rivers. Much of the landscape remains rural and access to remote areas may be limited—but the adventure is limitless!

In this article, we’re sharing 5 bucket list train experiences in Ontario that you can take to explore the landscape, reminiscent of the days of settlers, prospectors, miners and adventurers.

1. Agawa Canyon Tour Train – A Canadian Signature Experience

The Agawa Canyon is a world-famous attraction in the Algoma region, welcoming visitors worldwide annually. In fact, since 1952 over 3 million people have visited the Agawa Canyon. The one-day rail excursion to the Agawa Canyon begins from the train station in Sault Ste. Marie and follows 114 miles of track through pristine Canadian wilderness. It begins its descent into the canyon, formed over 1.2 billion years ago, the track winding alongside the Agawa River. The original track was laid by the Algoma Central Railway for passengers and freight, and the beauty of the canyon quickly became a much-sought attraction for tourists.

Visitors see views of rugged mountainous landscapes, lakes and rivers, views of Lake Superior, and the remnants of railway towns. Once you arrive in the Agawa Canyon, explore on foot to see Bridal Veil Falls, Black Beaver Falls, and the panoramic view of the canyon from the top of the Lookout Trail (a 300-stair climb!). Two interpretive panels in the canyon are dedicated to members of the Group of Seven who took the ACR passenger train over 100 years ago and stayed in the canyon to paint the wilderness, including Bridal Veil Falls. GPS-triggered commentary tells this story and more throughout the journey.

The newest edition to the tour train is The Stone Gardner, a historic wood-panelled business car with theatre-style seating and luxury. The plate glass windows offer expansive views of the natural beauty as the train journeys to and from the Agawa Canyon. A private full-service kitchen and facilities tend to passengers in this exclusive coach.

Quick Facts:

The season for the tour train is August to October.
Fall tour train tickets are popular, so we encourage visitors to book early.
Passengers can bring their lunches, or order from the menu. Both breakfast and lunch are served (there's a kids' menu too).
Book your stay in Sault Ste. Marie at one of the many accommodations or campgrounds.

2. VIA Rail Budd Car – A Canadian Wilderness Vacation

The Budd Car remains a nostalgic experience when train travel was the only way to cross Canada. Lodges and resorts along this rail line cater to those who love the outdoors. Generations of anglers have ridden the line to fish for trophy walleye and northern pike still teeming in lakes today, on the ready for a hook and rod. If fishing is not your true interest, you’ll find rest and relaxation amongst the pines to kayak and canoe, beaches to swim or picnic, hike and birdwatch.

VIA Rail Budd Car passengers unloading remote location

The Budd Car , or the Sudbury-White River Train, and for some, the former Lake Superior , is operated by VIA Rail and serves these northern communities and tourism businesses between Northeastern Ontario and Algoma Country . The train provides flag stop service which means the train stops only on request. There are three main stations along this line: Sudbury, Chapleau and White River with the remaining flag stops assigned by Mile number or a named destination. The train is comfortable provides a comfortable journey with views of vast wilderness, through abandoned mining and logging towns, and past pristine lakes and rivers.

Bring a packed lunch for the train ride as the snack service is limited.
Purchasing train tickets before your remote lodge trip is advised. This can be done on the Via Rail website.
Carry-on baggage includes 1 personal item and 1 large item (or 2 small). Checked baggage is available but fees may apply on types and weights of items.

3. The Polar Bear Express – An Excursion Steeped In Heritage And History

Operated by Ontario Northland, The Polar Bear Express Passenger Train is an essential service for Moosonee and Moose Factory residents and allows access to visitors who love to fish, camp and want to visit the most northern parts of Northeastern Ontario .

The Polar Bear Express train service began in 1964 as a link to serve remote communities bringing essential supplies, services and connections for passengers. The train journey starts in the town of Cochrane , and there are several flag stops in between before reaching its final destination, Moosonee , one of Ontario's northernmost communities.

The train cars have panoramic windows, large seating areas, and dining car services.

The Polar Bear Express dining car offers a broad menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner changes with the season, and is freshly prepared on board.
Free WiFi and on board entertainment is provided.

4. CPKC Holiday Train – Bringing Holiday Cheer Across Canada

The CPKC Holiday Train rolls into the holiday spirit one community at a time across Canada! Decorated with thousands of Christmas lights, the CPKC Holiday Train travels nationwide collecting money and food donations for its annual Food Bank fundraising program. In Northern Ontario, the Holiday Train makes stops in communities where a modified railcar transforms into a stage for live musical performances in a mix of original, traditional and modern holiday-themed songs. There are over 190 stops on this train in both Canada and the United States with a fleet of 14 railcars measuring about 1,000 feet long.

Since 1999, the Holiday Train has raised more than $22.4 million and 5.15 million pounds of food for community food banks.
CPKC asks for donations of food and money for your local food bank in place of admission fees
You can find the November and December schedule for stops on the CPKC Holiday Train website
Find more CPKC Holiday Train FAQs
Stops in Northern Ontario are: Sudbury, Cartier, Chapleau, White River, Pic Mobert, Heron Bay, Marathon, Schreiber, Nipigon, Thunder Bay, Ignace, Dryden, Vermillion Bay, and Kenora.

5. Superior Fall Colours & Northern Ontario By Rail

The Superior Fall Colours & Northern Ontario by Rail is a group travel trip allows visitors to see the breathtaking fall colours of Northern Ontario by rail from Toronto to Sudbury and Train #185 (Sudbury to White River). This 5-day - 4 nights group tour sees you meeting at Toronto's Union Station to meet the guide and fellow travellers. Once aboard, the train heads north through the Muskoka area to Sudbury, with the guide pointing out interesting scenery and highlights. You'll enjoy a full day enjoying Sudbury attractions like Science North, the R & R Restored Classic Cars and the Northern Ontario Railway Museum. From Sudbury to White River, you'll travel aboard the VIA Rail (Budd Car) through rugged wilderness, past pristine inland lakes and historic places like Biscotasing, Chapleau and White River. On the return trip to Sudbury, you'll have the opposite view and a chance to see local wildlife and enjoy the nostalgic train travel once used by prospectors, miners and adventurers along this historic rail line.

A motorcoach transports visitors around communities and to attractions.
Round trip includes some meals and overnight stays.
The train travels along the South border of the Chapleau Crown Game Preserve - the largest in the world.
VIA Rail’s dome car train The Canadian

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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
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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
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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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Winter Specials

Book your canadian winter train tour and receive a 10% discount on all of our advertised tours for travel between november 1, 2024, and april 10, 2025, winter train travel deals for 2024.

Winter Train Travel Special

10% off all tour packages.

Book your Canadian Winter Train Tour with Canada Rail Vacations and receive a 10% discount on all of our advertised tours for travel between November 1, 2024, and April 10, 2025!

Offer includes All Canadian Winter Tours as well as The Canadian Nostalgic and The Canadian Prestige Tour Options.

*This offer is not valid in combination with any other offers.

Winter Tours

Canadian Rockies Tours
Trans Canada Tours
Eastern Canada
Most Popular
Grand Railway Hotel Tours

Rockies Winter Wonderland

Step back in time and board “The Canadian” winter train to Jasper through the snowy Canadian Rockies. At night, nestle into bed aboard this 50s-era train and be rocked to sleep as you travel through canyons and along riversides. This tour moves at a comfortable pace with lots of time in the National Parks for the winter activities of your choice. The perfect romantic getaway or adventure tour. Spend five total nights in the Rockies with stays in Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff.

The Canadian Prestige: Eastbound

Combine nostalgia and luxury to get prestige: with one week of unparalleled customer service, five-star accommodation, and the finest attention to detail. The Prestige rail cars aboard VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” train are a masterpiece of design and a once in a lifetime travel experience. This tour includes private transfers, private tours, Fairmont Gold Floor hotel rooms with all-inclusive service aboard the train.

The Canadian Nostalgic: Eastbound

Step back into a golden past aboard “The Canadian” train – destination Toronto. With five days aboard the train, you’ll be mesmerized by Canada’s Rocky Mountains, Prairies and lake country, you’ll be rocked to sleep by the motion of the train and you’ll savour made to order meals as you glide across our great country. This nostalgic journey from Vancouver to Toronto aboard this 50’s era train is one you’ll never forget.

Eastern Canada by Rail

Explore Canada’s cultural cities with this relaxing tour of Eastern Canada by rail. Highlights of this journey of exploration include: the “Centre of the Universe” in Toronto; our nation’s capital in Ottawa; trendy, chic Montreal; the European flare of Quebec City; an overnight train journey along the St Lawrence River to the maritime city of Halifax on Canada’s East Coast. Every component of this tour can be customized to suit your specific needs and desires.

The Canadian Prestige: Westbound

Combine nostalgia and luxury to get prestige: unparalleled customer service, five-star accommodation, and the finest attention to detail. The Prestige rail cars aboard VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” train are a masterpiece of design and a once in a lifetime travel experience. This tour includes private transfers, private tours, Fairmont Gold Floor hotel rooms with all-inclusive service aboard the train.

The Canadian Nostalgic: Westbound

Step back into a golden past aboard “The Canadian” train – destination Vancouver. With five days aboard the train, you’ll be mesmerized by lake country, Prairies, and Canada’s Rocky Mountains, you’ll be rocked to sleep by the motion of the train, and you’ll savour made to order meals as you glide across our great country. This nostalgic journey from Toronto to Vancouver aboard this 50’s era train is one you’ll never forget.

The Canadian Prestige Train

10% discount during off-peak travel season.

Book your Canadian Prestige tour with Canada Rail Vacations and receive a 10% discount off all tour departures before April 15, 2023 or after October 15, 2023.

*This discount only applies to the base price of the trip and is not applicable to any tour add-ons or additional nights **This discount is not valid if any items are removed from the tour package *** This offer is not valid in combination with any other offers and is for direct bookings only

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A Guide to Train Travel in Canada
An Epic Rail Adventure in the Canadian Rockies
Rocky Mountaineer: Grand Rail Circle in Canadian Rockies
What is the best train trip in Canada?
Canadian Rail Journey
Rocky Mountain Train Trips

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Historic train hits the rails from Calgary to Mexico
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VIA Rail Train The Canadian Arriving in Toronto
Why is This Canada's LEAST Popular Train? #travel #viarail #traintravel #vlog #canada #quebec #trip
Via Rail from Montreal To Toronto
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COMMENTS

Travel by Train to Canada from USA
Departing from historic King Street Station, the Amtrak Cascade train will take you over the border into Canada, passing stunning vistas of the Cascade Mountains, Mount Baker and the Pacific Northwest shoreline along the way. You'll travel through Chuckanut Bay, where the mountains of the Cascade Range meet the sea, and along the shimmering ...
Best Canadian Train Vacations, Trips & Rail Tours
Plan your Canadian Train Vacation with us and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Canada by train. Travel with Canada's largest specialist in rail journeys.
US-Canada Border Crossing Guidelines for Amtrak Train Travelers
Crossing the US-Canadian Border. If your trip involves travel across the US-Canadian border on a train or Thruway bus, you can help ensure a safe and speedy passage by reviewing the following requirements and guidelines. Amtrak services that cross the US-Canadian border are subject to inspection by Canadian and American law enforcement officials.
Taking an Amtrak Train to Canada From the United States
Visit New York and Niagara Falls. Travel Amtrak to Canada from NYC on this thrilling roundtrip journey from New York City to Niagara Falls. Soak in the forested scenes of Upstate New York as Amtrak's Maple Leaf weaves through the mountains en route to Ontario. At Niagara Falls, enjoy two full days to experience the awe that comes with visiting ...
Canada Rail Vacations
Book your 2025 Canada Rail Vacations tour package before September 11, 2024, and receive 2024 rates for 2025 travel, as well as complimentary hotel upgrades! Read More.
Maple Leaf Train
Albany. New York. 12 hours 30 minutes Daily Departure. Go international onboard the Maple Leaf from New York City to Canada's equally urban metropolis, Toronto. Along the way, you'll travel through the beautiful Hudson River Valley, New York's wine country, and the incredible gorges of the Finger Lakes region near the dramatic spectacle of ...
Train Across Canada: The Ultimate VIA Rail Journey Guide
Hopping a ride on this train is the ultimate way to discover how big and beautiful Canada is. 'The Canadian' was the flagship of the Canadian Pacific rail line when it began service in 1955. Travelling from Toronto to Vancouver, the Canadian carries you past the Great Lakes, over the granite outcrops of the Canadian Shield, through dense boreal forest, across undulating grasslands, and into ...
Cross Canada Train
These trains will make the natural beauty and history of Canada real to you. Great for train enthusiasts, adventure seekers, families, and those celebrating milestone moments, travel aboard VIA Rail will deliver opportunities to see untamed wildlife, Canada's exquisite natural wonders, hand-crafted local cuisine, and meet new friends on the ...
VIA Rail The Canadian Sleeper Train Across Canada
Total Travel Distance: 1346 Kilometers or 836 Miles from Montreal, 1084 Kilometers or 674 Miles from Quebec City. Total Travel Time Across Canada: Approximately 125 hours (5 nights spent onboard the train plus 1 or 2 nights spent in hotels required) Total Distance Covered on the Train Across Canada: Approximately 6354 Kilometers or 3948 Miles ...
Train travel in Canada
Train travel in Canada. Canadian long-distance trains are run by VIA Rail Canada, www.viarail.ca.They're a great way to see the country, whether you travel on the inter-city trains between Toronto, Montréal and Québec, the Océan from Montréal to Halifax or Canada's classic trans-continental train, The Canadian from Toronto to Winnipeg, Edmonton, Jasper & Vancouver.
The essential guide to train travel in Canada
Canada has an extensive rail network and some spectacular rides. However, with the bulk of the system given over to freight and most Canadians preferring to travel long-distance by car or plane, trains outside the eastern corridor cities of Toronto and Montréal are little used compared to countries in Asia or Europe.. It wasn't always so. Annual ridership on Canadian trains peaked at 60 ...
Canada Coast to Coast by Rail
Canada Coast to Coast. Explore Canada coast to coast by train and settle in for the adventure of a lifetime. This epic train trip takes travelers from the coastal city of Vancouver across seven provinces to Halifax on the Eastern Seaboard. Select tour packages travel from east to west, as well. No matter which direction your tour follows, enjoy ...
Across Canada By Train
An open mind and an empty memory card are the best accessories for this epic vacation. Itinerary is also available from Halifax to Vancouver based on your travel preference. View Dates & Pricing. Call to book 1-877-929-7245. Enquire about this tour.
Complete Guide to Taking the Train Across Canada
Canada Train Routes. You have to take two different routes to get across Canada by train. The Canadian, the Vancouver to Toronto train (or visa versa), and the Ocean, the Montreal to Halifax train. You can take a regular VIA Rail commuter train to get between Toronto and Montreal.
A Guide to Train Travel in Canada
Train travel is a comfortable, convenient, relatively affordable way to get around Canada, though visitors should realize the Canadian rail system has nowhere near the reach, regularity, or overall convenience of, for example, the European rail service. In addition, train travel tends to be relatively expensive in Canada, though this is ...
Best train journeys in Canada
Here are four of the best overnight train journeys in Canada you won't want to miss. 1. Vancouver to Toronto on The Canadian. 4466km (2775 miles), 94 hours. When The Canadian debuted in 1955, the flagship train was a prime example of post-war railway style. Stainless steel carriages outfitted with art-deco furnishings, 360-degree observatory ...
Does Amtrak go to Canada?
August 13, 2023 Travel Guide. Three Amtrak routes travel to and from Canada: Adirondack, Cascades and Maple Leaf. Proper documentation is required to cross the US-Canadian border, such as a passport (view rules and requirements). Learn more about each Amtrak route below, all of which offer connections to VIA Rail for train travel across Canada.
7 of the Best Train Trips in Canada and What You'll See Along the Way
Then board VIA Rail's Canadian for the cross-country trip to the west. Capture the pure beauty and majestic sights of the many plains, mountains, lakes, and glaciers as you travel through the Canadian countryside. With so much to take in on your cross-Canada trip, the travel becomes the destination on this Canadian Rail Experience! 7.
The 11 Best Canadian Train Trips
The 11 Best Canadian Train Trips. Ride the rails through the wilds of Canada, past the mountains of Banff and the Arctic's Northern Lights. By Michael Kaminer and Matt Ortile. November 30, 2023 ...
Five Bucket List Train Experiences in Ontario
2. VIA Rail Budd Car - A Canadian Wilderness Vacation. The Budd Car remains a nostalgic experience when train travel was the only way to cross Canada. Lodges and resorts along this rail line cater to those who love the outdoors. Generations of anglers have ridden the line to fish for trophy walleye and northern pike still teeming in lakes ...
Winter Train Tour Specials
Winter Rail Travel in Canada deals and discounts. Book now to get the best prices on this year's rail tours! ... Book your Canadian Prestige tour with Canada Rail Vacations and receive a 10% discount off all tour departures before April 15, 2023 or after October 15, 2023.
Trains From Stoke-On-Trent To Canada Water
Save money when you travel to Canada Water by train. Railcards offer value for money if you travel by train, saving you at least 1/3 on most rail fares. With a bit of planning, buying tickets in advance can save you a pretty pound, and if the travel bug has you travelling a lot then a Railcard might be worth your while!. The Railcards available include: