The Canadian Train Onboard Experience and Service Levels
The Canadian train has different levels of service. There is Economy, Sleeper Plus, and Prestige class available on VIA Rail from Vancouver to Toronto. We recommend Sleeper Plus Class or Prestige Class.
In Sleeper Plus Class, you can choose an upper or lower berth, a cabin for one, or a cabin for two. For the long journey between Vancouver and Toronto, we recommend booking a private cabin. Cabins for one feature a comfortable armchair next to a large window. At night, sleep well in a cozy lower bed. Cabins for two feature comfortable armchairs next to a large window. At night, the chairs are replaced with retractable upper and lower beds (bunk beds). Cabins have a private toilet, sink, and mirror. There is not a private shower in your cabin, though there are shared showers available.
Prestige Class is a luxury all-inclusive experience on the Vancouver to Toronto train. The cabin is spacious and features an L-shaped leather couch which converts to a lower bed for two. Wake up from a good night’s sleep and instantly look out the large window in front of you. Your cabin also has a private bathroom with a shower and heated floors. Prestige guests enjoy a range of perks including priority boarding, priority meal reservations, unlimited snacks, and turn down service. There is also a dedicated concierge who will attend to your needs while on the train.
In addition to their onboard accommodation, Sleeper Plus and Prestige passengers have access to the train’s dining car and the viewing cars. There is the Skyline Car, which has a glass-dome viewing area, and the Prestige Park Car. Prestige guests have priority access to the Park Car during peak season. These viewing areas are fantastic places to sit and admire the scenery outside.
Meals are included for Sleeper Plus and Prestige guests. Non-alcoholic drinks are included for Sleeper Plus and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. Both non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks are included for Prestige. Freshly made three-course meals are served at lunch and dinner. Meals are prepared by onboard chefs in the train’s kitchen. There are usually four main meals options to choose from, including a vegetarian option. The menu changes each day, so you won’t get the same meal twice.
A sample breakfast menu features these four options:
Chef’s omelette
Cranberry orange pancakes
Tofu scramble
Continental
A sample lunch menu features these four options:
Ginger beef on rice
Shrimp and scallops
Pulled turkey wrap
Couscous salad
A sample dinner menu features these four options:
Prime rib of beef
Sole filet with fruit salsa
Chicken with lentils
Marinated tofu
Tea, coffee, juice, and water are always available.
Special dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, are easily accommodated with advance notice.