Canada is a vast country with such a diversity in landscapes. The east coast of Canada evokes the charm and atmosphere of the British Isles, while the mountains of the west coast make it feel more like Switzerland or New Zealand.
One of the most memorable ways to experience Canada is by train. You can get up close and personal with one or two provinces, or take a train trip across the entire country. These are the best train trips in Canada to provide you with future travel inspiration.
Whether you choose to see Canada via one long, epic train journey or split it up into smaller adventures, I am sure you'll quickly fall in love with travel here. These Canada rail tours will have you ready to pack your bags in no time.
Why I Love Train Travel in Canada
There are so many reasons to plan your adventures in Canada around train travel.
- Natural Beauty: There are endlessly beautiful views when you gaze out the window, watching the world go by. Mountains, sparkling lakes, dense forests, I love it all!
- Delectable Culinary: On some luxury train trips in Canada, you'll taste delicious meals by talented chefs.
- Comfortable and Convenient: Train travel is so comfortable. There's much more space to stretch out than a plane or a bus. Plus, the journey is so much more enjoyable.
The Best Train Trips in Canada
Alright, let's get to it! These are the best train trips in Canada that I know you'll love. They extend from coast to coast to coast. I'm sure you'll find one that's suitable based on where you're looking to travel in Canada.
Rocky Mountaineer: First Passage to the West
One of the most famous Canadian bucket list train adventures is hosted by Rocky Mountaineer. Soak up panoramic views from glass-domed coaches, savor gourmet dishes crafted by skilled chefs, and indulge in world-class hospitality.
I embarked on their "First Passage to the West" itinerary from Vancouver to Banff. This two-day journey is all about slowing down and enjoying the adventure.
Passengers travel during daylight hours past snow-capped mountains, glacier-fed rivers and lakes, captivating waterfalls and a wide array of wildlife. In the evening, we sleep in comfortable hotels and have the opportunity to explore Kamloops and Banff on foot.
The chefs on board Rocky Mountaineer trains create culinary delights for every taste. Even if you have a food allergy or dietary preference, it's no problem at all. Enjoy breakfast and lunch in the dining cart, snacks and beverages during this luxury train trip.
As I follow a vegan diet, the chefs and staff on Rocky Mountaineer prepared delicious vegan meals and treats, often going the extra mile to make creative and yummy dishes.
The Canadian on VIA Rail: Toronto to Vancouver
VIA Rail's The Canadian offers the ultimate cross-country train trip in Canada. This was Canada's first transcontinental train, debuting in 1955 when it was owned by Canada Pacific (CP). Nowadays, the Canadian transports rail passengers from Toronto to Vancouver in its comfortable carriages and sleeper cars.
It offers 360-degree panoramic viewing domes by day, and a cozy rest by night when you choose the Sleeper Plus and Prestige options. Sleeper Plus has a sleeping berth, and Prestige provides a private compartment to rest your head.
It generally takes about four nights to travel between Toronto and Vancouver on The Canadian. The journey ventures across 4406km of the country, and it's one of the very best train trips in Canada.
The Ocean on VIA Rail: Montreal to Halifax
Now, venturing in the opposite direction, let's embark on another incredible train trip in Canada from Montreal to Halifax. Also operated by VIA Rail, The Ocean has actually operated for well over a century. Dating to 1904, The Ocean is North America's oldest train route in continuous service.
Similar to The Canadian, travelers can opt for an Economy Seat or Sleeper Plus option, with the latter being the most comfortable. Enjoy majestic scenery of the St Lawrence River, a prime whale watching location. Continue through Gaspesie, Moncton, and ultimately arrive in Halifax.
While there's no panoramic dome on The Ocean, passengers can enjoy meal service in the dining car, and there are also lounge cars to relax and soak up the views. This is a one night, two day train trip from Quebec to the Maritimes.
Winnipeg to Churchill (Polar Bear Experience)
Did you know that Churchill, Manitoba is one of the only human settlements in the world where you can view polar bears in the wild? Known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, travel by train to witness these magnificent creatures from Winnipeg to Churchill.
VIA Rail makes this adventure possible with their trains between Winnipeg and Churchill, operating twice weekly. This journey takes nearly two days, with one overnight on the train. Economy seats and Sleeper Plus options on sleeper cars are available.
View the stunning wilderness from the train along the way. This is truly one of the best train trips in Canada and an unforgettable journey for wildlife and nature lovers.
Leave a Reply