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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Yes, a train ride across Canada is worth it for those who appreciate scenic landscapes, a relaxed pace, and a unique travel experience. The journey offers unparalleled views of the country's diverse geography, from the Rocky Mountains to the prairies and coastal regions. Additionally, the comfort and amenities provided, especially in higher classes, make it a luxurious and memorable trip.

The best time to travel across Canada by train is when the weather is most conducive to enjoying the stunning landscapes, which falls between May and October. Travellers experience mild temperatures, extended daylight hours, and access to most of the country's outdoor attractions during May and October. Late spring or early autumn is ideal for travellers wanting to avoid crowds, as the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is beautiful with fall foliage in the later months. Travelling during the winter months is the best time to travel to Canada for winter enthusiasts because it offers a unique experience and allows them to witness a winter wonderland in the Rockies. VIA Rail trains operate year round so choosing the right season depends on personal preference, and whether travellers are seeking warm-weather exploration or snowy landscapes.

We highly recommend insurance as our trips are non-refundable. Insurance coverage will protect your investment and offer peace of mind! Depending on the insurance you purchase, it may cover costs due to flight delays or cancellations, lost luggage,and health issues.