Q: What's the experience like on Rocky Mountaineer, and what are the differences between service levels?

Rocky Mountaineer is an all-daylight luxury train , offering breathtaking views of the scenery between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies. You’ll enjoy gourmet meals, world-class service, and commentary on the wildlife, landscapes, and historic sites. You’ll stay in a hotel at night , then rejoin the train the next morning, refreshed and ready for more stunning scenery. Service Levels: SilverLeaf: Travel in a single-level glass-dome coach with oversized windows, assigned seats, and meals served at your seat. SilverLeaf coaches offer great wildlife viewing opportunities at eye-level. GoldLeaf: Travel in a bi-level glass-dome coach with lounge seating on the upper level, a dining room on the lower level, and an exclusive outdoor viewing platform. GoldLeaf features taller coaches for unobstructed views above the treeline. For more information and a detailed comparison of the Rocky Mountaineer service levels, please speak to one of our local travel experts.

Question 1

Are these vacation packages all inclusive? What is included in the price?

Accepted Answer

Our trips include your train travel, meals on the train, accommodations, guided tours or excursions each day, and airport and train station transfers. The price does not include any flights or insurance, though you can purchase specialized rail trip insurance through our travel advisors.

Question 2

Which luxury trains go across Canada?

Accepted Answer

The only luxury train which goes across Canada is VIA’s Canadian Train. While it has other service levels, its Prestige Class is a luxury option with private cabins, concierge service, exclusive viewing and lounge cars, and fine-dining meals in the dining car.

Question 3

What is the most luxurious train in Canada?

Accepted Answer

The most luxurious train in Canada is the Rocky Mountaineer. Renowned for its GoldLeaf Service, the train offers bi-level dome coaches with panoramic views, gourmet dining, and top-tier personalized service.

Question 4

What is the difference between VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer?

Accepted Answer

Rocky Mountaineer provides luxury train journeys through the Canadian Rockies, whereas VIA Rail offers scenic trips across the country. Rocky Mountaineer is daylight-only travel, whereas VIA Rail runs both day and night with sleeper accommodations. Both have glass-dome viewing cars allowing passengers to fully enjoy Canada’s breathtaking landscapes.

Question 5

What's the experience like on Rocky Mountaineer, and what are the differences between service levels?

Accepted Answer

Rocky Mountaineer is an all-daylight luxury train, offering breathtaking views of the scenery between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies. You’ll enjoy gourmet meals, world-class service, and commentary on the wildlife, landscapes, and historic sites. You’ll stay in a hotel at night, then rejoin the train the next morning, refreshed and ready for more stunning scenery.

Service Levels:

SilverLeaf: Travel in a single-level glass-dome coach with oversized windows, assigned seats, and meals served at your seat. SilverLeaf coaches offer great wildlife viewing opportunities at eye-level.

GoldLeaf: Travel in a bi-level glass-dome coach with lounge seating on the upper level, a dining room on the lower level, and an exclusive outdoor viewing platform. GoldLeaf features taller coaches for unobstructed views above the treeline.

For more information and a detailed comparison of the Rocky Mountaineer service levels, please speak to one of our local travel experts.

Question 6

Are these escorted group tours for seniors?

Accepted Answer

No, these itineraries are for independent travellers of any age and you will not have a group or guide travelling with you. If you’re hoping to meet other travellers, pick the small-group tour options for your daily activities. The train can also be quite social, especially in the dining and glass-dome viewing cars. We also offer private excursions if you prefer a quieter travel experience on your independent tour.

Question 7

Can the trip's length be modified to spend more or less time in certain destinations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most trips can be customized to extend or shorten your stay in certain destinations, so your itinerary best suits your interests and schedule. This is dependent on the train schedule as some routes do not run every day.

Question 8

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 9

Where do I sleep 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. Some train journeys with VIA Rail include sleeper cars with private berths and cabins.

Question 10

What types of hotels will I stay in, and what are the options for comfort levels?

Accepted Answer

We offer a range of carefully selected hotels to suit your preferences for comfort, location, and experience. Our accommodation options are typically categorized as follows:

Comfort Level: Quality 3-star hotels with great locations and excellent service.
Superior/Boutique Level: Upscale 4-star properties that offer additional character and charm, providing a memorable experience without the premium price.
Deluxe Level: Luxurious 5-star properties, often iconic Fairmont hotels with rich history, exclusive amenities, and unforgettable views.

Sometimes we use the same hotel for more than one category and distinguish the room by size, floor level, or view. Our team can help you choose the ideal hotel level based on availability, your preferences, and the experience you’re looking for. For more examples, check out the accommodation section of the trip page or ask one of our Canadian Insiders for recommendations.

Question 11

Are these trips suitable for people with restricted mobility?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many of our trips are suitable for people with restricted mobility. It's best to inform the booking agent of any special requirements to ensure a comfortable experience.

Question 12

Are there private cabins on Canada’s sleeper trains?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There are three different types of private cabins. VIA Rail’s Sleeper Plus has private cabins for one or two people. VIA Rail’s Prestige Class is a luxury cabin for two with a private shower.

Question 13

What are the options for service levels on VIA Rail's Canadian train?

Accepted Answer

For VIA Rail's Canadian Train, we recommend Sleeper Plus Class and Prestige Class. Both these service levels offer private cabins, meals in the dining car, and access to viewing cars. Here’s what sets them apart:

Sleeper Plus Class

Cabin: Comfortable seating converts to upper and lower bunks; includes a sink and toilet, with a shared shower down the hall.
Meals and Drinks: All meals and non-alcoholic drinks included; alcoholic drinks available for purchase.
Viewing Access: Access to the Skyline Car and restricted access to the Prestige Park Car.

Prestige Class

Cabin: Larger cabin with an L-shaped couch that converts to a double bed, plus a private washroom and shower.
Meals and Drinks: All meals, snacks, and drinks (including alcoholic) are included. Afternoon tapas is served between lunch and dinner.
Exclusive Perks: Unlimited access to the Prestige Park Car, priority meal reservations, turndown service, and a dedicated concierge.

Luxury train vacations in Canada

Luxury train vacations in Canada

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Frequently asked questions

Are these vacation packages all inclusive? What is included in the price?

Which luxury trains go across Canada?

What is the most luxurious train in Canada?

What is the difference between VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer?

What's the experience like on Rocky Mountaineer, and what are the differences between service levels?

Are these escorted group tours for seniors?

Can the trip's length be modified to spend more or less time in certain destinations?

Am I on the train the whole time?

Where do I sleep on my trip?

What types of hotels will I stay in, and what are the options for comfort levels?

Are these trips suitable for people with restricted mobility?

Are there private cabins on Canada’s sleeper trains?

What are the options for service levels on VIA Rail's Canadian train?

Luxury trains in Canada

Rocky Mountaineer

VIA Rail's Prestige Class

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