The Canadian Train: Experience VIA Rail's Iconic Journey (2024)

Table of contents

• Popular trips featuring the Canadian Train
• The Canadian Train Route Map
• Train Stops
• History
• Inside the Canadian Train
• Service Levels
• Quick Facts
• Top Places to Visit
• Frequently Asked Questions

Follow the historic rail route that made Canada what it is today. Built in the 19th century to connect the nation, the Canadian National Railway stretches across the endless fields of the prairies and then carves through the Rockies before arriving on the West Coast. Savor stunning views from the train and then explore the country's best destinations at extended stops.

Whether you want to see Canada’s wildlife in its natural habitat or dip your toes in a glacier-fed lake, the travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations can help. We have local knowledge of The Canadian Train and its routes. Our speciality is creating custom itineraries tailored to your interests. We love to travel, and we want to share that love with you as you explore all that Canada has to offer.

Vancouver to Toronto Train Tour

Spend 11 days exploring some of Canada's most popular destinations. This itinerary with the Canadian Train has the option of starting in Vancouver or Toronto. It includes stops at Banff and Jasper National Parks, giving you plenty of opportunities to see local wildlife and snap photos of all the attractions.

Miles covered on train: 2,775

Days on train: 5

Nights on train: 3

Canada Coast to Coast by Train

The Canada Coast to Coast itinerary includes four nights on The Canadian Train and two days on the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer. Hop on board to experience a trans-Canada journey like no other. You'll see Peggy's Cove, Lake Louise, Niagara Falls and more with this itinerary featuring The Canadian Train trip.

Miles covered on train: 3,240

Days on train: 5

Nights on train: 4

Trans Canada by Rail in Winter

Forget about walking in a winter wonderland; the Trans Canada by Rail in Winter route offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and prairies sparkling with frost. This itinerary includes accommodations in one of The Canadian Train cabins, stops at Jasper and Banff National Parks and a guided transfer along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

Miles covered on train: 2,762

Days on train: 4

Nights on train: 4

Download a brochure

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

VIA Rail's The Canadian Train follows this route:

Toronto > Winnipeg > Saskatoon > Edmonton > Jasper > Kamloops > Vancouver

It can also be done in reverse.

This is the classic Canadian journey. Rumble through boreal forest, prairies and mountains on what National Geographic called one of the best train trips in the world. And along the way, you'll get to experience some uniquely Canadian destinations.

Explore Toronto, Canada's largest metropolis and a cultural and artistic hub. Or visit Winnipeg, the most under-the-radar city in the prairies, with world-class museums, art galleries and a diverse dining scene.

Cross through Saskatchewan's huge blue skies and bright-yellow fields of canola, and watch the terrain outside your window grow from foothills to the towering peaks of the Rockies. The serene coastline of Vancouver — where you will either start or end your journey — provides the perfect mix of urban luxuries and outdoor escapes.

Travel on the Canadian Train offers an immersive journey across the heart of Canada. The Canadian train stops are built into the schedule for refueling and crew changes. Sometimes there is time to get out for a quick exploration, depending on the location and if the train is on time. You can also get off the train for a multi-day stay until the next scheduled train comes through.

The stops along the route include:

• Vancouver: Start or end your Canadian train journey in this vibrant city, known for its stunning coastal scenery and bustling urban life. This is an ideal stop to add a couple days.
• Kamloops: A gateway to outdoor adventures, Kamloops is famed for its rugged landscapes and vibrant cultural scene.
• Jasper: Nestled in the heart of Jasper National Park, this stop offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and abundant wildlife. You should get a couple hours to walk around the town. Many of the Canadiantrainvacation.com itineraries include stop-overs in Jasper, allowing you to explore the Rockies.
• Edmonton: Alberta’s capital, Edmonton, boasts a rich cultural heritage and lively festivals throughout the year.
• Saskatoon: Known for its picturesque riverfront and vibrant arts community, Saskatoon is a charming prairie city.
• Winnipeg: One of the longer stops on the Canadian train schedule — passengers could have up to four hours to explore the nearby attractions — Winnipeg features historic sites, diverse neighborhoods, and the stunning Forks National Historic Site. There is usually a complete Canadian train crew change in Winnipeg.
• Sioux Lookout: This small town offers a glimpse into Northern Ontario’s serene wilderness and pristine lakes.
• Capreol: A quaint community in Northern Ontario, Capreol is surrounded by scenic natural beauty.
• Toronto: Canada’s largest city, Toronto, is the other terminal city on this route. Known for its iconic skyline, diverse culture, and bustling urban life, it’s the ideal destination to spend a couple days during your vacation.

The Canadian Train, an integral part of Canada’s rich railway heritage, dates back to the mid-20th century. Officially launched on April 24, 1955, the train was introduced by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) as a premier transcontinental passenger service. Its establishment was part of a broader national effort to promote Canadian tourism and provide a luxurious travel experience across the country’s vast and scenic landscapes.

The Canadian was known for its iconic stainless steel cars manufactured by the Budd Company. Some of the Canadian’s key train cars feature domes that offer passengers panoramic views of the journey’s surrounding beauty. This unique design is a hallmark of the service, distinguishing it from other rail travel options of the time. The original Canadian train route connected Montreal and Vancouver, covering approximately 2775 miles (4,466 kilometers) and showcasing Canada's diverse geography from the rugged Rocky Mountains to the expansive prairies.

Over the years, VIA Rail has maintained and upgraded the train, blending historical charm with modern amenities to cater to contemporary travellers. Today, the Canadian train ride remains a beloved journey, celebrated for its historical significance and the unforgettable experience it offers to passengers exploring Canada's breathtaking landscapes.

Sleeper Plus Class

Sleeper Class offers both upper and lower berths, and private cabins. We recommend a comfortable private cabin, where you can stretch out and watch the sunset (or sunrise, if you're an early bird). Depending on the size of your group, you can book a cabin for one, two or four travelers. You'll have your own toilet and sink, plus a shower that is only shared with a handful of other people.

The perks of Sleeper Plus include:

• Three gourmet fine dining meals per day.
• Complimentary fruit and cookies between meals.
• Priority boarding and access to the station lounges in Vancouver and Toronto.
• Access to the Panorama and Skyline viewing cars.
• Non alcoholic beverages included; alcoholic beverages available for sale.
• Cabins includes a toilet and sink, with access to a shared shower.

Sleeper Class offers both upper and lower berths, and private cabins. We recommend a comfortable private cabin, where you can stretch out and watch the sunset (or sunrise, if you're an early bird). Depending on the size of your group, you can book a cabin for one, two or four travelers. You'll have your own toilet and sink, plus a shower that is only shared with a handful of other people.

The perks of Sleeper Plus include:

• Three gourmet fine dining meals per day.
• Complimentary fruit and cookies between meals.
• Priority boarding and access to the station lounges in Vancouver and Toronto.
• Access to the Panorama and Skyline viewing cars.
• Non alcoholic beverages included; alcoholic beverages available for sale.
• Cabins includes a toilet and sink, with access to a shared shower.

The Canadian offers the country’s only luxury train service across Canada. Prestige Class is like a cozy home on rails. You'll have 50% more space in your cabin compared to Sleeper Plus class and a 60% larger window for admiring those views.

When night falls, you can retreat to your elegant cabin with a glass of wine, curl up in your Murphy bed for two and catch a movie on your personal flat-screen monitor — or simply watch the stars. Your room includes a private bathroom, with toilet, sink, and shower.

The perks of Prestige Class include:

• The attention of a personal concierge.
  Access to the exclusive Park Car, a lounge on the rails.
• Complimentary coffee, tea, fruit and cookies.
• All meals and drinks included.
• Priority reservations in the dining car.
• Pre-dinner appetizer service.

• The Canadian connects Toronto and Vancouver, with stops in Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Jasper. This route can also be travelled in reverse.
• This train covers a total of 2,762, which takes about 86 hours.
• Enjoy sweeping views from the top-floor observation area in the Skyline car.
• Travellers can dine on the train and sleep in their own private cabins.
• The menu features dishes that pay tribute to regional specialties: Saskatoon berry salad, Alberta beef and B.C. salmon are just a few examples.
• The Canadian Train Ride takes you through bustling cities, flat prairies and everything in between.
• The Canadian train run every four days. You can arrange to get off in certain destination to explore for the time in between. You'll stay in hotels overnight when you're not on the train.
• You’ll have a good chance to see wildlife and the best sights in the Canadian Rockies where there are no roads.

1. Jasper

Jasper truly has something for everyone, making it one of the most popular destinations on The Canadian Train route map. If you're looking for adventure, this national park has no shortage of options, from helicopter tours to ice climbing. Its mountain town is also ideal for low-key travellers who want to sit back and relax. There’s even a luxe Fairmont resort in the middle of all this stunning nature. Downtime and forest therapy await.

2. Vancouver

Vancouver has just the right blend of city amenities and natural wonders, making it the perfect place to begin your Canadian adventure. Start the day with some kayaking, have lunch at one of the city's many restaurants or spend the afternoon looking for wildlife. You'll never run out of things to do.

3. Toronto

An integral destination on the Canadian route, you’ll love exploring Toronto's diverse neighborhoods. As the capital of Ontario, Toronto has almost every amenity you can imagine, from Broadway-style theatre performances to Michelin-rated dining establishments. It's also filled with historic landmarks and has activities for travellers of all ages and activity levels.

4. Winnipeg

Immerse yourself in Canadian culture with a visit to Winnipeg. A gem on the prairies, the city has trendy neighborhoods, interesting museums and parks galore. It even has an 80-acre conservation centre for travellers who love animals.

Discuss your Canadian train vacation with a local travel expert