Canada Coast to Coast by Train
Length
20 days / 19 nights
Time on train
7 days / 4 nights
Train type
Where it goes
When to go
April – October
Price from
Your itinerary is personalized to suit your dreams and needs:
- Decide your desired budget
- Choose your own activities and experiences
- Have all the details of your trip arranged for you
The most scenic trans-Canada train vacation
Discover Canada from coast to coast on the historic trans-Canadian railway. Experience five incredible rail journeys from coast to coast. Enjoy authentic local experiences along the way.
The ultimate Trans-Canada train experience
Choice of unique small group excursions
Spectacular two days on the Rocky Mountaineer train
Four nights aboard VIA Rail sleeper train
Scenic wonders of Lake Louise, Niagara Falls and Peggy's Cove
See inside the trains
Travel on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer
The Ocean Train's Cabin for Two in Sleeper Plus
The dining car on The Ocean train
Business Class on the Corridor Train
The Canadian's Cabin for Two in Sleeper Plus
The dining car on The Canadian train
The upper viewing level on The Canadian Train's Park Car
Glass-domed upper level on Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf service
GoldLeaf’s dedicated lower dining room
Oversized glass-dome windows in Rocky Mountaineer’s SilverLeaf service
SilverLeaf’s in-seat meal service
Sample Itinerary
Arrive in Halifax
Welcome to Halifax, the largest port in Canada’s Maritime Provinces. Discover the blend of Acadian, Irish, and British history as you stroll the historic cobblestone streets.
Discover Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia has a rich sea-faring history and rugged coastlines with fishing villages perched above the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy exploring some of the province's scenic highlights.
VIA Rail - Depart Halifax
Board The Ocean train in Halifax and travel across the rural landscapes of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Pass picturesque farmland, rivers, forests, and small towns near the Bay of Fundy and Chaleur Bay.
VIA Rail - Arrive in Quebec City
After following the shores of the St. Lawrence River, arrive in Quebec City early this morning. This afternoon, discover the old part of the city, or head out to explore the nearby countryside.
Explore Quebec City
With a delicious coffee in hand, spend the day exploring Old Quebec's 17th-century fortifications and winding cobblestone streets.
VIA Rail – Quebec City to Montreal
Journey a short distance by train through Quebec’s picturesque countryside to Montreal. Montreal is unique as it is the largest French-speaking city in North America.
Explore Montreal
Montreal is renowned for its European feel with its rich history, architecture and churches. Explore the city on your choice of tour.
VIA Rail – Montreal to Toronto
The Corridor Train carries you into the next province of Canada – Ontario.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Halifax
Arrive in Halifax
Day 2
Discover Nova Scoti...
Discover Nova Scotia
Day 3
VIA Rail - Depart H...
VIA Rail - Depart Halifax
Day 4
VIA Rail - Arrive i...
VIA Rail - Arrive in Quebec City
Arrive in Halifax
Welcome to Halifax, the largest port in Canada’s Maritime Provinces. Discover the blend of Acadian, Irish, and British history as you stroll the historic cobblestone streets.
- Private Transfer from Halifax Airport
Bypass the crowds and start making the most of your vacation. A friendly driver welcomes you to the city and takes you to your destination.
Discover Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia has a rich sea-faring history and rugged coastlines with fishing villages perched above the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy exploring some of the province's scenic highlights.
- Private Peggy's Cove and Halifax Sightseeing
With a private driver, enjoy the scenery as you travel along Nova Scotia’s unique coastline to Peggy's Cove. Later, explore historic Halifax.
- Halifax Food Walking Tour
Taste your way through downtown Halifax on a small group walking tour. This delicious food journey includes five stops at culinary vendors along the Halifax waterfront. At each stop, enjoy a snack inspired by the local area.
- Private Lunenburg, Mahone Bay and Aspotogan Peninsula Tour
Explore Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, Chester, and the Aspotogan Peninsula on today's tour. Please remember that this is your tour, and you can stop when and where you wish. Your guide will show you as much as possible in the time allowed.
- Dinner in Halifax
Tonight, we have taken the guess work out of where to dine and included a delicious dinner for you at one of our favourite restaurants in downtown Halifax.
VIA Rail - Depart Halifax
Board The Ocean train in Halifax and travel across the rural landscapes of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Pass picturesque farmland, rivers, forests, and small towns near the Bay of Fundy and Chaleur Bay.
- Transfer to Train Station
A friendly driver will meet you at your hotel and take you to the train station.
- The Ocean Train, Sleeper Plus Class
Your private cabin features comfortable seating next to a large picture window. Hot meals are served in the dining car.
VIA Rail - Arrive in Quebec City
After following the shores of the St. Lawrence River, arrive in Quebec City early this morning. This afternoon, discover the old part of the city, or head out to explore the nearby countryside.
- Quebec Countryside Tour by Motorcoach
On today's tour, visit the countryside area surrounding Quebec City by motorcoach. Discover everything from spectacular Montmorency Falls and the world-famous shrine at Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre to traditional villages and local artisans.
- Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac Walking Tour
On this guided walking tour, uncover the history of the prestigious Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. Learn about the famous people and historical events that have shaped the hotel's identity and see the recent architectural improvements.
- Quebec City Sightseeing Cruise
Discover Quebec City from the water, with a fantastic guided cruise on the St. Lawrence River. Sail from Old Quebec to Montmorency Falls, passing by Ile d'Orleans and enjoy views of the famous Château Frontenac.
- Transfer from Sainte-Foy Train Station
A friendly driver will meet you at Sainte-Foy train station and take you to your hotel.
Explore Quebec City
With a delicious coffee in hand, spend the day exploring Old Quebec's 17th-century fortifications and winding cobblestone streets.
- Gourmet Food Walking Tour
On this guided food tour, visit some of the best restaurants in Old Quebec and savour delicious Canadian cuisine. Discover local history and folklore as you explore the city.
- Old Quebec City Walking Tour
Walk the streets of Old Quebec and marvel in the historic feel of one of the oldest cities in North America.
- Quebec City Sightseeing Bus Tour
Discover Quebec City's history on a guided sightseeing bus tour. See the Plains of Abraham, the Château Frontenac, the Notre-Dame Basilica, and more.
VIA Rail – Quebec City to Montreal
Journey a short distance by train through Quebec’s picturesque countryside to Montreal. Montreal is unique as it is the largest French-speaking city in North America.
- Transfer to Train Station
A friendly driver will meet you at your hotel and take you to the Gare du Palais train station.
- The Corridor Train, Business Class
Relax in your spacious business class seat as you follow the St. Lawrence River from Quebec City to Montreal. Meals and full-bar service are included onboard the train.
- Transfer from Train Station
- Dinner in Montreal
Try traditional French cuisine at one of our favourite Montreal restaurants.
- Suggested Evening Activity – Aura Lightshow at Notre-Dame Basilica
If you have time this evening, discover the artwork of the Notre-Dame Basilica through multimedia installations. A combination of light, orchestral music, and stunning architecture provides an unforgettable experience.
Explore Montreal
Montreal is renowned for its European feel with its rich history, architecture and churches. Explore the city on your choice of tour.
- Small Group Sightseeing Tour of Montreal
Explore Montreal's must-see areas and attractions on this fully guided tour. Visit Mount Royal, Old Montreal, the Notre-Dame Basilica, St. Joseph's Oratory and more.
- Private Walking Tour of Old Montreal
Explore the winding cobblestone streets of Old Montreal on a privately guided walking tour. Journey through time, from Fort Ville-Marie in 1642 to today’s modern city, and learn about Montreal's fascinating history.
- Private Food Walking Tour
During this private tour, sample local delicacies in Old Montreal as you visit restaurants, patisseries and food boutiques with a passionate local foodie.
VIA Rail – Montreal to Toronto
The Corridor Train carries you into the next province of Canada – Ontario.
- Transfer to Train Station
- The Corridor Train, Business Class
Travel by train from Montreal to Toronto. Relax in your spacious business class seat as you pass by quaint farms, villages and towns, dense greenery, and beautiful lakes.
Explore Toronto or Niagara Falls
You have the day to explore Toronto or venture out to see the famous Niagara Falls.
- Niagara Falls Day Tour
On this full-day small-group tour, get up close to Niagara Falls on a Hornblower boat ride and explore the quaint town of Niagara-On-The-Lake.
- Food Walking Tour in Toronto
Taste your way through Toronto on a small group walking tour. This delicious food journey guides you from the St. Lawrence Market towards the famous Distillery District. At each stop, enjoy a snack inspired by the local area.
- Toronto Sightseeing Tour and CN Tower Dinner
On a small guided tour by motorcoach, explore the vibrant city of Toronto, where modern skyscrapers meet historic neighbourhoods. Highlights could include Yorkville, the Harbourfront, Distillery District, and more. Later this evening, enjoy dinner at the CN Tower.
VIA Rail - Depart Toronto
Board The Canadian train in Toronto and begin your transcontinental journey west. Admire the views as you leave Canada's largest city behind and travel north into Ontario’s picturesque lake country.
- The Canadian Train - Onboard Service
Watch the changing scenery from the train's viewing cars and enjoy hot meals in the dining car. Ask your Vacation Advisor about the differences between Sleeper Plus Class and Prestige Class.
VIA Rail - Ontario
Head west through the rugged landscape of the Canadian Shield and into the province of Manitoba. See ancient, exposed rock, boreal forest, and countless lakes. Keep an eye out for fishing cabins perched on tiny islands, as well as moose and bears.
VIA Rail - Canadian Prairies
Journey across the undulating plains of the Prairie provinces — Saskatchewan and Alberta. Fields of green and gold stretch endlessly under an immense blue sky. When you look out the window, spot rustic barns and small farming towns.
VIA Rail - Arrive in Jasper
See the magnificent Rocky Mountains early this morning as you get close to Jasper. This laid-back mountain town lies in the heart of Jasper National Park.
- Jasper Evening Discovery Tour
Learn how Jasper's animals contribute to the rich diversity of the national park and how they survive the summer weather. Your guide shows you the park's most scenic sites as you travel by small tour bus through the Athabasca Valley.
- Jasper Skytram
Ride on the longest and highest aerial tramway in the Rockies! Stroll the interpretive boardwalks or hike the Summit trail and explore the alpine's unique flora and fauna.
- Jasper Orientation Tour and Transfer
As you step off the train, a friendly local guide meets you at the station. Enjoy an introductory tour of Jasper's highlights before arriving at your hotel.
Icefields Parkway - Jasper to Lake Louise
Travel from Jasper to Lake Louise along the world-famous Icefields Parkway — one of the most scenic roads in North America.
- Icefields Parkway Tour to Lake Louise
Travel along the Icefields Parkway on this full-day tour. Walk on the Athabasca Glacier, stop for lunch, and step bravely onto the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
- Private Icefields Sightseeing with Heli-Tour (Extra Cost)
Explore the Icefields Parkway at your own pace with a private guide. Stop to soar over Cline Pass in a helicopter.
Lake Louise to Banff
Spend the morning admiring Lake Louise's turquoise waters and glacier-clad peaks. Relax, stroll by the lake, or browse the hotels' souvenir shops. Later on, a transfer takes you to the bustling mountain town of Banff.
- Lake Louise to Banff Sightseeing Transfer
Spend the day in Lake Louise before a late afternoon sightseeing transfer to Banff. During peak season and when road access permits (end of May/early June to early October), there is a half-hour stop at Moraine Lake.
Explore Banff National Park
Fill your lungs with cool, fresh Rockies air and head out for a day of exploration.
- Banff Sightseeing Tour and Gondola Ride
Discover Banff’s folklore and natural history on a small group tour, then ride the gondola up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
- Banff E-Bike Tour
Cycle through Banff and the wonderful Bow Valley area on an e-bike tour.
- Cowboy Cookout Lunch by Horse-Drawn Wagon
Embrace the fresh mountain air on a morning wagon ride along the base of Sulphur Mountain. Midway, relax at 3 Mile Cabin by the Sundance Canyon Trail and enjoy a tasty BBQ lunch.
Rocky Mountaineer Train - Banff to Kamloops
Board the Rocky Mountaineer train and begin your Canadian Rockies rail journey. Just sit back and admire the breathtaking beauty as you pass Banff and Yoho national parks.
- Motorcoach Transfer to Train Station
- Rocky Mountaineer Train Service
Rocky Mountaineer daylight trains feature glass-dome cars with oversized windows, gourmet meals, and friendly, attentive staff. Ask your Vacation Advisor about the differences between SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf.
Rocky Mountaineer Train – Kamloops to Vancouver
Enjoy another day of delicious food and excellent service on Rocky Mountaineer. See dramatic changes in the landscape as you travel from Kamloops, in the heart of British Columbia's interior, to the beautiful coastal city of Vancouver.
- Motorcoach Transfer to Hotel
Explore British Columbia
Discover Vancouver's top attractions, visit the famous resort town of Whistler, or take a day trip to Vancouver Island.
- Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour
Begin your day with a scenic ferry sailing between the mainland and Vancouver Island. Enjoy leisure time in Victoria, then visit world-renowned Butchart Gardens.
- Whistler Day Tour
Explore the Sea to Sky highway with a guide — pass stunning mountain ranges, the world's second-largest granite monolith and Shannon Falls, and discover the beauty of Howe Sound's coastal fjord.
- Vancouver and the North Shore Tour
Visit Vancouver's main attractions and neighbourhoods. Highlights include Stanley Park, Granville Island, Vancouver Lookout and Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Depart Vancouver
After travelling thousands of miles by train, say farewell to Canada as your trip comes to an end.
- Private Transfer to Vancouver Airport
A friendly driver will pick you up and take you to the airport in time for your flight.
Download Itinerary
Get more details in a sample itinerary that includes day-tour options and descriptions, departure dates, and suggestions for personalizing your trip
Prices
Get your personalized quote as prices vary by departure date, train-service level and hotel class. Prices shown are our lowest rates per person, based on double occupancy, and exclude taxes.
Accommodations
These are examples of the places you can stay on this trip. Please get in touch to discuss your options and to check availability.
Elk + Avenue Hotel
Conveniently located in downtown Banff, the Elk and Avenue Hotel combines Banff’s alpine history with a sleek modern design. After a day of exploring, unwind in the hotel’s jacuzzi or dry sauna, then enjoy fresh Canadian cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
Sutton Place Hotel Halifax
The Sutton Place Hotel Halifax is an elegant, modern property featuring spectacular views of downtown Halifax, the waterfront harbour and historic Citadel Hill. Highlights of the hotel include floor-to-ceiling windows, spa-inspired bathrooms and an outdoor patio with a hot tub and fire pits.
Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Said to be the world’s most photographed hotel, the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is an iconic landmark that overlooks the St. Lawrence River and Old Québec City. Experience the hotel’s enchanting history on a guided tour, then unwind with a relaxing spa treatment.
Personalize This Itinerary
Here are some of the most popular ways to personalize this journey.
Upgrade to Prestige Class
Prestige Class is a luxury experience. Available on VIA Rail’s The Canadian Train between Vancouver and Toronto, this spacious double cabin includes a special concierge service throughout your journey. This is one of our most popular upgrade options.
Celebrate an occasion
Honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, or the fulfillment of a lifelong goal, our team is ready to make it a celebration to remember. From arranging a bottle of champagne to putting together a helicopter picnic for two on top of a mountain at sunset, we're ready to make your dreams a reality.
Add a visit to PEI
Pay a visit to beautiful Prince Edward Island, home of red sandy beaches, great seafood, picturesque farms and - of course - Anne of Green Gables. We can include a car rental, or transfers with guided experiences.
Add an Alaska Cruise
Ask us to pair you up with your style of cruise and discover Alaska's spectacular Inside Passage.
What Our Customers Say
The scenery was beautiful
Rocky Mountaineer was great (people and food). The scenery was beautiful. Everyone remembering our anniversary and personalizing it with cards and small gestures was special. The g...
![Bob and Judy review of their [object Object] trip](https://cdn.bfldr.com/UAHFH8T4/as/mj4vxhrf39z5z5jppvm3zs/Bob_Judy_556?auto=webp&format=webp&width=75)
Bob and Judy
GA, USA
Everything was put together perfectly
Everything was put together perfectly. It's difficult to say what was the best part of the trip. It was all put together so well. The Banff Gondola was unbelievable.
![Dave and Marilyn review of their [object Object] trip](https://cdn.bfldr.com/UAHFH8T4/as/jr4spqnb7p6twgvm4jzn5ct/Dave_Marilyn_555?auto=webp&format=webp&width=75)
Dave and Marilyn
NY, USA
Fresh Tracks put together a wonderful itinerary
Fresh Tracks put together a wonderful itinerary. It was a seamless experience, with all tours and pickups reliable and on time. All excursions organized were first class and so enj...
![Rod and Nettie review of their [object Object] trip](https://cdn.bfldr.com/UAHFH8T4/as/nf24mbh73f3jtnmt46rpj6gx/Rod_Nettie_538?auto=webp&format=webp&width=75)
Rod and Nettie
NSW, Australia
The Canadian Rockies were amazing!
The landscape and scenery were some of the most beautiful we've ever seen. And the only way to see it is by train. The Canadian Rockies were amazing!
![Susan and Brian review of their [object Object] trip](https://cdn.bfldr.com/UAHFH8T4/as/km9cj7cw6nhs5xp8nqxnwqg9/Susan_Brian_521?auto=webp&format=webp&width=75)
Susan and Brian
LA, USA
Our trip was very well organized
Our trip was very well organized. We were very pleased. We saw great scenery and wildlife and the staff on the trains spoiled us.
![Susan and Kevin review of their [object Object] trip](https://cdn.bfldr.com/UAHFH8T4/as/sft9smtjfn4gth94vx9tgzrn/Susan_Kevin_491?auto=webp&format=webp&width=75)
Susan and Kevin
MN, USA
Insider Tips
From the snow capped mountain peaks to the vibrant lakes, dense forest, and alpine meadows you will not find a more diverse landscape with so much to offer! Skiing and hiking are just a couple of my favorite things; there is no other place I would rather call home.
Ashley
Canadian Insider
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