Bucket List Canadian Train Trips
These scenic train rides are world famous
Canada is home to some of the best train trips on the planet. And our Canadian travel experts have put together this carefully curated list of the most popular, well-reviewed train vacations available today.
These journeys take you through awe-evoking scenery, while ensuring that you are pampered with great service and delicious food along the way. Whether you are looking for a whirlwind weeklong tour through unmissable highlights, or a longer odyssey across prairies, mountains, coast and beyond — you'll find your perfect experience in the list below.
So take a look at our suggested itineraries, get inspired and then contact us to start planning your dream scenic train vacation.
WANT TO MAKE IT BETTER?
A guide for those researching a Canadian train journey
Train travel in Canada is like a tour. If you're wanting to see the best of Canada then there's no better way than by taking the train.
Most of the trains run every few days. This allows you to enjoy a scenic train journey, then get off to explore in the best destinations. You'll stay in hotels overnight when you're not on the train.
- Discover unparalleled views – See wildlife and the best sights in the Canadian Rockies where there are no roads.
- Achieve ultimate relaxation – Melt back into your luxurious seat. Enjoy the exquisite food, wine, and views.
- Enjoy opportunities to explore – At almost every destination. From trekking through ancient glaciers to helicopter tours.
TRAIN TRACKS
There is one true trans-continental train route across Canada, travelling through most major destinations.
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The Canadian
Vancouver to Toronto
Hopping a ride on this train is the ultimate way to discover how big and beautiful Canada is. 'The Canadian' was the flagship of the Canadian Pacific Rail line when it began service in 1955. Travelling from Toronto to Vancouver, the Canadian carries you from the forests of Ontario, through the sweeping fields of the Prairies and past the dramatic snow-capped Rocky Mountains
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The Ocean
Montreal to Halifax
Onboard the Ocean Train you'll travel from the French speaking province of Quebec, through the blissful backdrop of lighthouses and seascapes in the Canadian Maritime Province of Nova Scotia before reaching your final destination of Halifax. As you relax onboard, you'll see tiny communities along your route, representing French Canadian, Acadian, Celtic and English heritage.
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Rocky Mountaineer
Vancouver to the Rockies
The Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight only train, perfect for experiencing the most spectacular views and optimal photo oppotunities of the Canadian Rockies. The train connects BC and Alberta, with stops in Jasper, Banff, Lake Louise, Vancouver and Whistler on three unique routes. Your overnight stay during your journey will be in Quesnel or Kamloops.
EXPERIENCES
These are some suggested train experiences for your Canadian adventure
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Rocky Mountaineer
Daylight Train
The Rocky Mountaineer connects British Columbia and Alberta, with stops in Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff, Vancouver, Whistler, Quesnel and Kamloops. The train runs from mid-April until mid-October. The Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight only train designed so that passengers can experience the most spectacular views and optimal photo opportunities.
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VIA Rail Train
The VIA Rail trains connect Canada from Vancouver to Halifax, with four different train routes. Major city stops include Vancouver, Prince Rupert, Jasper, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec and Halifax. The trains run year round. Depending on the route, they offer daylight or overnight sleeper train experiences.
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Sleeper Train
VIA Rail
There are two train routes in Canada which allow you to sleep on the train. Travel between Vancouver and Toronto on [The Canadian](https://canadiantrainvacations.com/explore/the-canadian-train), with stops in Jasper or Winnipeg. Or travel the East Coast of Canada on the Ocean train [from Montreal to Halifax](https://canadiantrainvacations.com/explore/train-trips-east-coast). Both sleeper train routes are available all year long. Sleeper trains in Canada are equipped with special panoramic viewing cars to provide you with the best view of the scenery day or night.
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Alaska Cruise
The rail portion of your trip can come before or after your Alaska cruise. There are two types of cruise ships to choose from: a larger, more luxurious vessel or a smaller ship that allows you to visit more coves and inlets. Each type of ship has its advantages and it depends on your style of travel and what you want to get out of your Alaska cruise adventure.
Recommended Bucket List Train Tours
Start by exploring one of these regions
Canadian Rockies & West Coast
Where old growth forests, Haida totem poles, ice-blue glacier lakes, and dramatic mountain landscapes welcome you.
Across Canada
A rail adventure unlike any other. Our Insiders help craft the perfect trip based on your interests.
Eastern Canada & Maritimes
History and culture provide the charm on your Eastern Canada adventure. Find out more.
North & Arctic
A once in a lifetime experience. Our Insiders help craft the perfect northern adventure for you.
Or choose from our train travel experiences
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