Question 1

Is this an escorted tour?

Accepted Answer

Our vacations are not typically ‘escorted.’ You are not tied into a specific group, or a rigid daily itinerary but rather have the freedom of ‘independent’ travel.

This allows you, with the help of our Canadian Insiders, to personalize your trip to suit your occasion, interests, timeframe and budget. We’ll guide you through the process and provide the reassurance of seamless connections, customer service support, and scheduled activities tailored to your taste.

Question 2

Can I customize this trip?

Accepted Answer

Your trip can be as rich as you’d like, and completely arranged around your interests and needs. The greatest benefit of working with us is our local knowledge. You can customize your trip and decide what you’d like to see and do.

If your trip is a special occasion, we’ll make sure it is unforgettable. Or if you’re traveling with a group, we’ll take care of the logistics so you can share time together stress-free.

Question 3

Can I modify the trip's length by spending more or less time at certain locations?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We personalize all our clients’ trips to fit their exact tastes and needs. You can add days at locations that you’d like to explore and spend more time at. Or leave out certain areas that don’t interest you as much. Discuss your travel goals with our Vacation Advisors who make sure that your trip fits your needs and budget.

Question 4

Where do I stay on my trip?

Accepted Answer

We partner with many hotels across the country that offer a variety of service levels and unique experiences. Choosing a hotel is based on local availability and personal preference, and our Insiders will help you find the perfect place to rest your head so that you can have the best experience possible.

Question 5

What amenities will my hotel have?

Accepted Answer

Hotel amenities can vary by property, so your Vacation Advisor will discuss what’s most important to you, such as air conditioning, parking, laundry, swimming pool, spa, onsite restaurants, or 24-hour room service.

Question 6

How much does my trip cost?

Accepted Answer

All our trips are personalized to fit our clients’ schedule and budget. The price of your trip generally depends on the travel season, train service, accommodations, and the sightseeing tours you take. When you request a quote you’ll be provided with the detailed information you need

Question 7

Am I on the train the whole time?

Accepted Answer

Most of our trips include stops to get off the train to explore Canada’s beautiful locations, national parks and unique cities. However, if you’re keen to maximize your time onboard, we’ll pair you up with the perfect train experience.

Question 8

Can I purchase an individual train ticket?

Accepted Answer

Our personalized trips include much more than just train tickets. When you book with Fresh Tracks Canada, you receive expertly curated hotel accommodations and excursions tailored to your interests, plus airport, train and hotel transfers — ensuring a seamless travel experience from start to finish.

Question 9

Where do I sleep on the train?

Accepted Answer

All of our overnight train journeys feature a private cabin on board the train. In addition, you'll typically enjoy the train's viewing areas, common lounges, and dining cars where you can socialize with fellow travelers.

Question 10

What are the features of Sleeper Plus Class and Prestige Class on VIA Rail?

Accepted Answer

Sleeper Plus Class and Prestige Class are offered on VIA Rail’s Canadian train between Toronto and Vancouver. While both class levels include priority boarding, private cabins, meals in the dining car, and access to the train’s viewing cars, there are some key differences.

Sleeper Plus cabins have comfortable daytime seating for one or two people. At night, this seating converts into upper and lower bunks. There is a sink and toilet in the cabin, and a public shower is available down the hall. All meals and non-alcoholic drinks are included, with alcoholic drinks available for purchase. Sleeper Plus passengers can access the Park Car (specific times only during peak season) and other viewing cars, like the Skyline Car.

Prestige Class cabins are larger than Sleeper Plus cabins. Prestige cabins feature an L-shaped leather couch that converts into a large lower bed for two. There is a private washroom and shower in the cabin. All meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks are included. Prestige Class guests receive unrestricted access to the Park Car and other viewing cars, as well as priority meal reservations, turndown service, and a dedicated concierge.

For more information on the sleeper-train experience, please speak to one of our local travel experts.

Question 11

What kind of winter clothing and gear is recommended for this journey?

Accepted Answer

On this trip, you will spend most of your time on the train which has heating and air conditioning. For your time in Vancouver and Toronto, we recommend bringing warm layers, a winter coat, and comfortable footwear. The weather conditions and temperatures can vary, depending on your month of travel. It’s best to check the weather forecast a few days before you travel so you can pack accordingly.

Average winter temperatures in Toronto range from -7 degrees C to 8 degrees C (19 to 46 degrees F). Rain and snow are very common.

Average winter temperatures in Vancouver range from 0 degrees C to 10 degrees C (32 to 50 degrees F). Rain is very common, with occasional snow.

Canadian Cross-Country Journey in Winter

Sleeper train journey in winter

See icy Niagara Falls on a guided tour

Sleep on board the famous 'Canadian' train

Travel through the Canadian Rockies covered in snow

Explore beautiful coastal Vancouver

Your Questions Answered

What’s Included

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this an escorted tour?

Can I customize this trip?

Can I modify the trip's length by spending more or less time at certain locations?

Where do I stay on my trip?

What amenities will my hotel have?

How much does my trip cost?

Am I on the train the whole time?

Can I purchase an individual train ticket?

Where do I sleep on the train?

What are the features of Sleeper Plus Class and Prestige Class on VIA Rail?

What kind of winter clothing and gear is recommended for this journey?

Sample Itinerary

Begin Your Canadian Winter Vacation

Explore Niagara or Toronto

VIA Rail - Depart Toronto

VIA Rail - The Canadian Shield

VIA Rail - Canadian Prairies

VIA Rail - Canadian Rockies

VIA Rail - Arrive in Vancouver

Discover Vancouver

Sample Itinerary

Prices

View full itinerary

Accommodations

Fairmont Royal York

Personalize This Itinerary

Upgrade to Prestige Class

What Our Customers Say

Truly a memorable trip that we all will cherish for many years to come

It was perfect

Discuss your Canadian train vacation with a local travel expert

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