.js-required { display: none; }

A Guide to Trains in Canada

Published Sep 16, 2024

10 min read

Train travel in Canada provides an allure that other modes of transportation just can't match. Travel in comfort and style while you enjoy the slower pace that lets you truly appreciate the wonder of nature. The uniqueness of the Canadian landscape includes majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, sprawling forests, and rolling plains. Each area is home to some of the most fascinating wildlife, like polar bears, moose, and bighorn sheep. Choosing rail travel allows you to see these wonders from a unique vantage point as you enjoy the ever-changing panorama of beauty outside the train windows.

man taking a photo with a camera from the inside of the Rocky Mountaineer's iconic glass-dome coach in broad daylight

The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations by Fresh Tracks Canada have decades of experience helping travellers plan their train trip. This guide will give you a closer look at some of the best rail routes, train services, and experiences that Canada has to offer. Book a trip to travel Canada by train for a memorable experience that offers unparalleled scenic views of some of the country's most popular spots, while enjoying the luxurious amenities and fine dining.

The History of Train Travel in Canada

Train travel in Canada began with the opening of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad in 1836. Over time, train travel grew in popularity and expanded beyond freight trains in Canada to include luxurious passenger options. It expanded to include the Canadian Pacific Railway, founded in Montreal, by 1881. In 1916, the Canadian government nationalized several companies to create Canadian National.

Luxury train history in Canada has created an enthusiasm for this style of transportation. While passenger trains are no longer the number one mode of transportation for frequent travellers, they remain an excellent choice for vacationers looking for an exciting experience that provides a connection to history with modern amenities and the gorgeous sights Canada has to offer. Today, you can enjoy accommodations on the best trains in Canada. Whether your desired destination is to view the Northern Lights from one of the top locations in the country, get close up with wildlife, or travel the historical train routes of Canada, modern train travel has something to offer everyone.

Types of Trains Operated in Canada

Trains in Canada provide many essential services. Along with freight trains to transport goods, passenger trains give guests the option for luxury accommodations and sleeper trains in Canada to make travel more efficient.

Luxury sleeper trains in Canada are a popular travel option for couples and friend groups looking for a special trip that focuses on enjoying the scenes of nature and wildlife, while still having access to comfortable accommodations, fine dining, and fun activities. VIA Rail runs both sleeper and day-time trains in Canada.

Taking a Canada train ride is a wonderful opportunity for groups as it has something for the nature lover, the adventure enthusiast, and those who want to relax and be pampered. Luxury train operators like VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer, Canada’s day-light only sightseeing train, offer routes that provide plenty of photo-worthy scenery with stops at charming mountain towns and bustling cities.

Popular Train Routes for Luxury Travel

Luxury trains are a special way to travel with your significant other to some of the most sought-after rail routes in Canada. VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer provide luxury trains in Canada with routes to popular destinations.

VIA Rail connects the country from coast to coast and runs both sleeper trains and daytime connector routes between cities. It’s routes include:

1. The Canadian Train between Toronto and Vancouver

The Canadian train travelling across the Prairies between Toronto and Vancouver

From the Rocky Mountains to the open Prairies, the journey between Toronto and Vancouver includes views of diverse landscapes and stops in exciting cities.

This route is part of many of our exciting Canadian Train Vacation itineraries. Do the route in one go or get off the train in certain stops, like Jasper and Winnepeg, to explore for a few days. Ask your travel advisor about trips that include the Canadian train.

2. The Ocean Train between Montreal and Halifax

The Ocean train travelling between Halifax and Montreal in the autumn

If quaint fishing villages, stunning ocean views, and some of the best seafood you can find sounds like the perfect vacation for you, then you'll want to book passage on VIA Rail's Montreal to Halifax route. Montreal to Toronto is a convenient add-on, enabling you to connect to The Canadian and travel coast to coast.
Ask your travel advisor about trips that include the Ocean train.

3. The Skeena between Jasper and Prince Rupert

VIA Rail Skeena train between Jasper and Prince Rupert traveling through Winter landscape.

Travel from the eastern Rockies in Alberta to the Pacific Coast, with impressive views of Jasper National Park on the way to whale watching, boating, and more at Prince Rupert.

Rocky Mountaineer specializes in themed luxury routes that highlight the scenery and local history. It’s routes in Canada include:

1. First Passage to the West

Rocky Mountaineer in Banff National Park on the First Passage to the West route

Travel through the Canadian Rockies from Vancouver to Banff and experience the Rockies, Lake Louise, and diverse wildlife sightings.

2. Journey Through the Clouds

The Rocky Mountaineer train passing Pyramid Falls on the Journey Through the Clouds route.

See the highest mountain peaks the Rockies have to offer on your journey from Vancouver to Jasper.

3. Rainforest to Gold Rush

The Rocky Mountaineer Train travels along Howe Sound on the Rainforest to Gold Rush route.

Another Vancouver to Jasper favorite, this route takes you through coastal rainforest, the Cariboo Gold Rush area, and Fraser Canyon.

All of these routes can be incorporated into a personalized train vacation, making trains in Canada tours a great option for any special occasion trip, like an anniversary or retirement.

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. Our brochures are here to help.

Explore our brochures

Seasonal Variations in Train Travel

Your experience with Canadian train travel will vary based on the season. Winter train journeys will offer different benefits and considerations than springtime travel. The best time to travel by train in Canada depends largely on your travel goals and wish list items.

Winter brings cold temperatures but is the best time of year to travel to Canada to see the Northern Lights – a great add-on excursion to your vacation. It's also a good time of year if you enjoy festivals and other community events. Plus, the views of the snow-covered landscape from the train are truly magical.

Spring can be rainy, so you need to plan accordingly. Despite the unpredictable weather, this season is excellent for anyone who loves to see the flowers and plants coming to life and the wildlife emerging from winter hibernation. Spring is also a great season for bird-watching.

Summer brings the warmest temperatures, well-suited for outdoor activities like boating, kayaking, hiking, and fishing. July and August are also great months to see whales.

Fall is typically a popular travel time, with the sights of the changing leaves and cooler, but comfortable temperatures. October and November are ideal for polar bear watching and there are many great polar bear watching tours. No matter what time of year you choose to travel, Canada train journeys will provide you with a trip you'll remember forever.

Canadian Insider Tip: Bring your binoculars
The amazing scenery is close enough to see with the naked eye, but binoculars give you that up-close view. They also make wildlife watching more enjoyable.

Athena McKenzie
Content Manager

Comparing Train Travel with Other Modes of Transportation in Canada

There are both pros and cons of train travel when compared to air or car travel. Trains offer eco-friendly travel in Canada. Public transportation always has less of an environmental impact, plus trains can take you places that cars can't and afford you views you can't get on a plane.

If you are concerned with train vs. plane travel efficiency, while planes are faster, trains provide a more immersive experience by connecting you with nature and the towns along the route. Part of the experience is the journey, making train travel special.

Cost Analysis of Luxury Train Travel in Canada

The cost of luxury train travel varies depending on your desired destination, the length of your trip, and the type of package you book. For example, an eight-day tour through the Rockies starts at $5,020USD. This includes your train fare and meals, along with off-train hotel accommodations along your route and certain activities. Each package will be different, so you'll need to do some research into typical costs for your desired route.

Book the trip of your dreams by budgeting for train trips in Canada. It's well worth the effort to put some thought into how you can afford a luxury trip by rail. Many railways also offer discounted rates for various packages or seasonal destinations.

Planning Your Train Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide

Rail travel planning in Canada is easy. The key to train travel in Canada is to decide where you want to go and what you want to see. This will help you narrow down the season you should travel and which scenic trains in Canada are best. Talk to a vacation advisor at Canadian Train Vacations by Fresh Tracks Canada to get helpful advise and a no-obligation quote.

When booking luxury train travel, try to do so as early as possible. Ten months in advance is a good timeline to follow to ensure you secure your seat.

What to Pack for a Train Journey

Make sure you have all the necessities for a comfortable and enjoyable train ride by following a packing list. The Canada train system provides amenities and accommodations to keep you safe, warm, and comfortable, your train travel packing list can make the difference between an okay trip and an amazing trip:

Weather-appropriate clothing
Camera
Entertainment options like books or board games
Headphones and earplugs to enjoy music or block out noise
Charges and adapters for all your electronics

Bringing the essentials for train journeys ensures you have the chance to relax and take in the sights without worry. Remember to adjust your list according to the season. Snow trains in Canada require different items than summer trips.

Onboard Amenities and Services on Trains in Canada

A lounge car in Prestige class service on the VIA Rail Train

The amenities in Canadian trains can vary from the basic to the luxurious. You can expect different options for dining, sleeping accommodations, and viewing cars depending on the package you book. Most economy railways have a la carte dining options where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and meals. The more luxurious have chefs that prepare exceptional dinner cuisine served in an elegant dining car. Sleeper cars range from semi-private berths to luxury private rooms similar to a hotel.

Onboard services in luxury train cars can include fine dining options and panoramic viewing cars perfect for taking in the scenery and capturing some great photos.

Dining on Rails: Culinary Experiences

Around the world, train dining experiences can run the spectrum from passable to spectacular. If you are booking luxury train travel in Canada, then you can expect the latter with locally inspired Canadian cuisine on rails. Chefs typically prepare various specialty dishes using local ingredients to feature local flavors.

An example of a meal on VIA Rail’s Canadian is their three course Prime Rib dinner, with soup or salad to start, and a choice of dessert. You will also have a fish and a vegetarian option.

VIA Rail Canada serves regionally inspired meals in the dining car on The Canadian

On GoldLeaf on Rocky Mountaineer, a sample lunch menu offers a foccacia starter, main course choices of sirloin steak, chicken paillard, steelhead trout or a chickpea nourish bowl. There are also tempting desserts such as chocolate torte.

Meals options on GoldLeaf on Rocky Mountaineer include Alberta Striploin Steak and Crispy Skin Lois Lake Steelhead.

Unique Train Travel Experiences in Canada

Luxury train tours in Canada provide many unique train experiences. Your trip might include wine tastings, musical performances, and other special events on board the train. A traveller favourite are the glass-domed carriages that provide an uninterrupted view of the scenery.

a man looks out at the scenery from the inside of the Rocky Mountaineer glass dome train car

Looking at the trains in Canada map shows how many of the routes are ideal for photography and wildlife viewing, as they pass through scenic regions like the Rockies --particularly popular for the stunning views of the sky-high peaks.

Accessibility and Family Travel on Trains

Passenger train travel in Canada provides accessibility accommodations for various needs, along with some great options for family travel by train. Accessibility on Canadian trains includes access to wheelchairs, easy-to-navigate train configurations, and onboard communication services. Families can book seats within the same car, or share a sleeper car to keep everyone together.

Comparison with International Luxury Train Experiences

You may wonder how Canadian trains vs. global luxury trains stack up in an international train travel comparison. Each country has something unique to offer, but Canada's luxury train experiences provide something that international options can't, which is a look into the history of Canada and memorable views of some of the most impressive natural scenery in the world.

Future of Train Travel in Canada

The history of trains in Canada shows the benefits of this mode of transportation. As passenger trains in Canada become more popular with an increased demand for more luxurious accommodations and recreational destinations, so too does the need for sustainable train travel in Canada influence the future of train travel. Major rails continue to look into innovative ways to reduce their environmental impact, like VIA Rail's fleet replacement program, which is adding accessibility features like wheelchair lifts into the train cars.

Safety Protocols and Onboard Security

Train safety in Canada is a priority with all the railways. Staff members receive training on how to handle emergencies and enforce safety measures. Onboard security features meant to keep passengers safe may include restrictions on carrying certain goods, onboard regulations and behavior protocols, and monetary penalties for violators. You can learn about specific luxury train security measures from your railway's website.

Eco-Friendly Practices in Canadian Train Operations

Many travelers have some concern over the impact their travel choices have on the environment. Fortunately, sustainable train travel practices make it possible to continue to enjoy the experience and scenery of the Canadian rail system with green luxury travel in Canada.

Partnerships and Collaborations with Local Businesses

Many of the most favored routes have inspired a variety of Canadian train partnerships that can make your trip even more enjoyable. Both the local economy and the passenger experiences get elevated from these partnerships.

Local collaborations on train routes are nothing new. In fact, many hotels, resorts, and other interesting sights were built due to the railway, such as many of the Fairmont properties along the routes.

In Winnepeg, The Forks Market is located next to the train station and many of the businesses inside cater to train travellers looking for souvenirs and travel necesssities.

Train Travel for Special Occasions

Rail travel is for more than couples getaways. It's the perfect option for booking an unforgettable wedding, anniversary celebration, or corporate event. Just look at a Canada train map to get an idea of the amazing wedding locations you could choose from when you book train travel for weddings. Check out your favorite railway's customizable packages and special offers to get inspiration for special occasion train trips in Canada.

Experiencing Canada through its luxury train services is a trip unlike any other. Enjoy the benefits of comfortable lodgings, exquisite dining, exceptional services, and once-in-a-lifetime scenic views by booking a rain package for your next Canadian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you travel through Canada by train?

Yes, train travel is a popular mode of transportation for luxury travel and unique sightseeing opportunities.

What is the best luxury train trip in Canada for first-timers?

Canadian rail routes have memorable trips that appeal to a wide range of interests. For travelers new to train trips, you can't go wrong with a route that journeys through the Rocky Mountains. You'll not only see the impressive mountain peaks, but also get gorgeous views of Canada's lakes, rivers, forests, and prairies.

How far in advance should I book my train journey?

Most travelers should aim to book their accommodations about eight to 10 months in advance. This ensures the route and rail package you prefer is available. Since seating is limited, bookings for popular destinations can fill up quickly.

What are the cancellation policies for luxury train tickets in Canada?

VIA Rail offers exchanges or refunds for most tickets before departure. The railway is unable to offer refunds after departure. Certain packages, sleeper cars, or luxury travel options offer partial refunds while others are non-refundable. You should learn the cancellation policy of your particular booking when you make it.

Rocky Mountaineer's train tickets typically have a per-person cancellation fee based on the time before departure. The fee is 20% of the itinerary price at 61 days or more before departure, 50% at 46-60 days, and 100% at 45 days or fewer.

What Our Customers Say

Excellent overall rating based on 240 reviews

Fresh Tracks were very helpful in helping us plan and carry out our train trip across Canada

We thoroughly enjoyed seeing Canada from the east (Toronto) to the west (Vancouver) from the perspective of the trains. We also appreciated the quality of the food, the accommodati...

Richard and Carol

TN, USA

We loved every minute of our trip

We enjoyed all of our trip. The scenery up in the Rockies was amazing. The train journeys were superb, we were well looked after by nice people. The highlight for us was probably t...

Mike and Maureen

Aberdeen, Scotland

Everything went like clockwork

Everything went like clockwork. We especially appreciated the clear and complete instructions which were provided from Fresh Tracks. The Rocky Mountaineer was the highlight with it...

Charles and Kathryn

AZ, USA

A wonderful trip

Yesterday we reached Victoria after a wonderful trip you arranged for us from Toronto to Vancouver as part of our Canadian ocean-to-ocean excursion. We learned a lot and saw a lot...

Mary and Edwin

AZ, USA

Many, many wonderful memories

Many, many wonderful memories. Capilano Suspension Bridge, sleigh ride at Lake Louise, shopping in Banff, nature tour in Jasper and Banff, use of spas in the hotels in Vancouver, J...

Michael and Lucinda

PA, USA

Every arrangement you made was perfect

Anna and I arrived home last night wishing we had many more days to spend in your beautiful country. Every arrangement you made was perfect, from getting picked up at the Toronto a...

Ron review of their [object Object] trip

Ron

CA, USA

We could not have asked for more!

I cannot thank you enough for the wonderful vacation that the two of you put together for us. From the very beginning you, Meaghan, seemed to sense exactly the kind of vacation tha...

Karen, Enrique and Celeste

TX, USA

See more customer testimonials

About the author: Katherine is Director of Product with Fresh Tracks Canada. Having worked in the Canadian travel industry for almost 20 years, she enjoys sharing her local expertise with visitors. She is based in Calgary and one of her favourite Canadian destination is... Read more

Discover More

About Canadian trains

Trips by interest

Explore regions

Useful Links

Train Trip Finder Where to go in Canada Journeys Across Canada Canadian Rockies and West Coast Eastern Canada and The Maritimes Canadian North and Arctic Summer Train Trips Winter Train Trips Fall Color Train Trips Tours for Seniors Road Trips and Self Drives Family Adventures Vacations for Active Seniors History and Culture Trips Wildlife Viewing Trips

Explore Canada

The Canadian Train Train Across Canada Canadian Sleeper Train Luxury Trains Across Canada VIA Rail Vacations Rocky Mountaineer Train Tours Canadian Rockies Train Tours Train Tours for Seniors Canadian Pacific Railway Best Train Trips in Canada National Park Train Tours Train Tours from Vancouver Canadian Snow Train Alaska Cruise and Train Tours Canadian East Coast Train Tours Canadian West Coast Train Tours

Popular Train Trips

Vancouver to Toronto Train Journey Across Canada by Train Complete Canadian Rockies by Train Canadian Cross-Country Journey Classic Eastern Canada by Train Trans Canada Rainforest Route Canadian Rockies Voyage by Train Canada Coast to Coast by Train Rockies Winter Wonderland by Train Discover Whistler and the Canadian Rockies by Train Montreal and Quebec City Getaway by Train Canadian Cross-Country Journey in Winter Lords of the Wilderness Bear Viewing Trans Canada by Train in Winter Essential Rockies with Alaska Cruise

Canadian Train Vacations

| |

HomeTrue North Blog