Luxury Trains Across Canada

On a luxury train vacation, you'll not only be dazzled by the scenery outside — you'll also be delighted by the level of pampering you'll get inside as well. The Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf and VIA Rail Prestige classes are two examples of popular luxury train trips in Canada. 

The Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight-service train, while VIA Rail's Prestige class offers luxury sleeper train service with private cabins. Both feature gourmet meals prepared with fresh local ingredients by professional chefs, as well as a great selection of Canadian-made wines. 

The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations have planned more than 25,000 personalized trips. They are specialists in creating customized itineraries designed around the activities you want to do, including luxury train tours in Canada. We can promise you that it's the most elegant and enjoyable way to see the untamed landscapes of Canada.

What popular train-trip itinerary is best for you?

The Canadian Prestige Journey 

Travel across Canada on The Canadian in VIA Rail's Prestige class and experience personalized luxury service throughout your journey. Your deluxe cabin includes a private bath and shower, a television, and comfortable furnishings. This trip takes you from Toronto to Vancouver and can also be done in the reverse. Exclusive private tours compliment your experience in each of your stopover destinations. We recommend a 12 to 13 day itinerary to fully explore while you’re here.  

Miles covered on train: 2,762  

Days on train: 4 

Nights on train: 4 

Complete Canadian Rockies by Train

This luxury train ride in Canada is our most popular Rockies vacation for a reason. It includes two full days on a sightseeing dome car on the Rocky Mountaineer. This trip has the option of going eastbound, from Vancouver to Calgary, or westbound. On this eight-day itinerary, you’ll have time to explore Jasper, Banff and Lake Louise. Your travel advisor can arrange personalized activities for you, such as spa treatments, private tours and fine-dining meals.

Miles covered on train: 594 

Days on train: 2 

Nights on train: N/A 

Essential Rockies by Train with Alaska Small Ship Cruise 

Take the luxury to the next level by adding a small ship cruise to your train vacation. On this 14-day itinerary, you travel by plane, train and cruise ship. After experiencing the comfort and high-end service of the Rocky Mountaineer, along with some time exploring Banff and Lake Louise, you’ll fly to Sitka for your champagne welcome on board your small ship.  

Miles covered on train: 594 

Days on train: 2 

Nights on train: N/A 

Days on boat: 7 

Nights on boat:  6 

What to expect on a Luxury Train Ride

• Your luxury train vacation will include valuable upgrades and extras, from the train service and hotel classes to fine dining and exclusive activities. Here’s what you can expect on your luxury train trip in Canada:  
• Premium accommodation when not on the train, such as Fairmont hotels. This can also include upgraded room levels.  
• Oversized cabins and concierge service of Prestige Class 
•  Unique choice of privately guided sightseeing experiences
• Feature dining experiences in destinations such as Toronto and Vancouver 
• Airport and train station transfers with a private driver 

Quick Facts About Luxury Train Travel in Canada

• Canada's luxury train services connect BC and Alberta by daylight train, or travel all the way to Toronto with a sleeper train. 
• Luxury sleeper train service runs year-round and daylight service trains from mid-April to mid-October. 
• Both the luxury sleeper train and daylight services provide spectacular views and optimal photo opportunities 
• Chef prepared meals and local BC wines are included on the train as well as gourmet snacks. 
• Every need is taken care of by attentive onboard hosts or exclusive concierge service. 

Luxury Train Experiences

These are some suggested train experiences for your Canadian adventure

VIA Rail Prestige Service 

Prestige class sleeper service on VIA Rail’s Canadian train operates year-round and you can travel all the way from Vancouver to Toronto or vice-versa. Both luxury train services provide spectacular views and optimal photo opportunities. 

Rocky Mountaineer 

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. 

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. 

Explore: Rocky Mountaineer Train and Alaska Cruise Trip

Luxury Train Types

Both Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail offer luxurious train services across Canada. Let our Canadian Insiders help you choose the train service that is right for you, or combine both styles of luxury into one trip.

Luxury Services on the Rocky Mountaineer

The GoldLeaf Service 

Rocky Mountaineer's premium GoldLeaf Service is, quite simply, as good as it gets. The custom designed coach with fully-domed, panoramic windows ensure you'll get a superior viewing experience of the Canadian Rockies. And with hot, gourmet meals prepared from regional cuisine by Rocky Mountaineer's executive chefs, you'll experience luxury at its finest along the way. 

What's included in GoldLeaf: 

• Fully domed windows that give you unparalleled panoramic views from your seat in the upper-level of a custom-designed bi-level dome coach 
• Reclining seats that rotate to accommodate groups of four 
• 36 dining room seats with picture windows (four guests per table) 
• Spiral staircase and ADA elevator to dome level 
• Complimentary beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) throughout the journey, along with gourmet snacks. 
• An exclusive outdoor vestibule in the lower-level of your dome 
• Overnight hotel accommodation in Kamloops or Quesnel with luggage delivered to your hotel 
• Two daily gourmet meals with full table service 
• Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your journey 
• Transfers to and from the train 

Luxury Services on VIA Rail

Prestige Class 

Available between Toronto and Vancouver, Prestige Class offers a refined experience with completely revamped cars and accommodations. This unparalleled encounter with nature comes with thoroughly personalized attention. It's an inspiring way to admire Canada's beautiful landscapes. Enjoy attentive, personalized concierge service throughout your trip. Prestige Sleeper class is designed to offer passengers complete peace of mind, with priority reservations in the dining car and priority boarding. Savour the all-inclusive treatment, with refined dining and complimentary drinks service. 

What's included in Prestige Class: 

• Personalized concierge service throughout your trip 
• The Prestige Sleeper cabin is 50% larger than the cabin for two in Sleeper Plus class 
• It features a comfortable sectional couch during the day, facing an extra-large picture window for incredible views 
• Private washroom with shower 
• Get a good night's rest in a deluxe fold down bed with turndown service 
• A flat-screen TV with video selection 
• Minibar stocked with a selection of beverages 
• Priority reservations in the dining car, offering delicious breakfast, lunches and dinners prepared by onboard chefs. 
• Access to the Prestige Park Car, which offers spectacular views, complimentary bar service, snacks, activities such as wine tastings, and interactive talks on local history and culture 

What Defines a Canadian Luxury Train Trip?

Canadian luxury train trips offer an unforgettable vacation, combining comfort and elegance with the country’s breathtaking scenery. Here’s what sets these journeys apart:

Private Cabins or Suites

Some luxury train trips in Canada feature spacious, well-appointed cabins, such as the suites on VIA Rail’s Prestige Class. Guests can relax in their private cabins with comfortable beds, plush linens, and thoughtful touches. Prestige cabins also offer en-suite bathrooms, with a shower, ensuring privacy and convenience throughout the journey.

Gourmet Dining

Dining on a luxury Canadian train trip is a culinary delight. Guests on both VIA Rail and GoldLeaf on Rocky Mountaineer enjoy multi-course meals crafted with locally-sourced ingredients, served in elegant dining cars. Curated wine pairings complement the gourmet cuisine, making each meal an unforgettable experience.

Personalized Service

The hallmark of luxury train travel in Canada is the personalized service. Dedicated staff and concierge services ensure an exceptional experience that exceeds guest expectations. From arranging special requests to providing detailed information about the journey, the service is impeccable.

Panoramic Views and Dedicated Viewing Areas

Luxury trains in Canada are designed for optimal sightseeing. Expansive windows, domed observation cars, and outdoor platforms offer panoramic views of the stunning landscapes. Whether passing through the Rocky Mountains or gliding alongside glacier lakes, it’s one of the best ways to take in Canada’s scenic beauty. 

The Appeal of Luxury Train Travel in Canada

Luxury train travel in Canada embraces the romance and nostalgia of train travel and offers a memorable way to engage with the splendour of the Canadian landscape. Here’s why it’s so appealing to many travellers:

Slow Travel and Scenic Immersion

Luxury train rides in Canada allow travelers to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The leisurely pace of the train offers time to take in the changing landscapes outside the windows and truly enjoy the beauty of the journey. It’s a chance to relax to the rhythm of the train as it glides through some of the most scenic parts of Canada.

Unique Social Experience

Luxury Canadian train trips provide a unique social environment. Guests can mingle with other travellers from around the world in shared lounge spaces and dining cars. These settings foster a sense of camaraderie, making it easy to share stories and experiences with fellow passengers.

Beyond the Train

A luxury train ride across Canada is just the beginning. Many of the personalized itineraries at Canadiantrainvacations.com offer opportunities for pre- or post-trip extensions in iconic cities, National Parks, or luxury resorts. Whether exploring vibrant cities like Vancouver and Toronto or delving into the natural beauty of the Rockies, there’s so much to see and do beyond the train.

Planning Your Luxury Train Adventure

Proper planning ensures a seamless and memorable luxury train journey. Here’s what to consider:

Booking and Cost Considerations

When planning luxury train travel in Canada, booking in advance is crucial. Popular routes and dates can fill up quickly, especially in summer and early fall. Our local travel experts can help travellers take care of all of the details, booking train services, accommodations, and tours and excursions. 

Best Time to Travel

The best time for luxury train trips in Canada depends on personal preferences. Summer offers warm weather and vibrant landscapes, but it’s also the busiest season. Fall provides stunning foliage and fewer crowds. Winter trips showcase Canada’s magical, snow-covered landscape, while spring brings blooming flowers and milder temperatures.

Packing for Comfort and Ease

Packing for a luxury train ride in Canada requires a balance of comfort and style. Essentials include comfortable clothing for daytime, warm layers for the evenings, and weather-appropriate outerwear. The luxury trains in Canada are not formal, and most travellers wear casual attire even at dinner.  Layering is key, as temperatures can vary.