Experience Comfort on Canadian Sleeper Train Across Canada

Published Dec 3, 2024
13 min read

 Imagine riding a Canadian sleeper train across Canada from Vancouver to Toronto! It’s an amazing train trip where you can see beautiful sights and animals from special glass-domed cars. VIA Rail’s Prestige cabins are like cozy rooms on wheels where you can sleep and relax while enjoying the views.

Side view of a VIA Rail sleeper train as the sun sets

Sleeping on a train is super cool. You get your own soft bed in a private cabin. The gentle rocking of the train helps you fall asleep easily. Some cabins have separate beds, while others have a comfy sofa that turns into a big bed at night. It’s like having a moving hotel room while you travel through Canada’s most beautiful places!

At Canadian Train Vacations, we create personalized trips to Canada. Our travel experts have slept on many trains across the country. If you have any questions about Canadian train trips with sleeper accommodations, cost, destinations or options, please get in touch. We’d love to answer your questions.

Canadian Trains with Sleeper Cars

There are two VIA Rail routes in Canada where you can travel overnight on the train. Both these Canadian sleeper trains are available all year long. Travel across Canada between Vancouver to Toronto on the Canadian Train or visit the east coast of Canada and travel overnight on the Ocean Train from Montreal to Halifax.  

The Canadian is equipped with special panoramic viewing cars to provide you with the best view of the scenery day or night.  

Onboard these trains, the main level of service is Sleeper Plus Class, which has different sleeper options. On the Canadian route passengers can also upgrade to Prestige Class for a higher level of luxury. 

1. VIA Rail’s The Canadian

Discover how big and beautiful Canada is on The Canadian. This is a great way to see the country if you’re only visiting Canada once. 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. Ask your Canadian Train Vacation advisor about getting off the train for four days in Jasper. 

Route map of the Canadian Train

#1 Travel tip: Best for Families

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If you're travelling with small children, you may want to try one of our one-night sleeper-train journeys before committing to multiple nights on the train.

Louise Weiss
Director of Legendary Hospitality

2. VIA Rail’s The Ocean

Route map of the Ocean Train

Onboard the Ocean Train you'll experience the East Coast of Canada. This route takes you through Quebec and the seascapes of 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. 

Types of Sleeper Trains in Canada 

1. Sleeper Plus Class: Semi-Private Berth 

In the daytime, you get a couch like seat which faces another passenger. At night the space converts into an upper and lower bunk. The upper berth does require using a ladder. There is access to a shared shower. 

2. Sleeper Plus Class: Sleeper Cabin for One 

This small private cabin features a pull-out bed. There is a toilet and sink, but the bed covers the toilet at night. There is access to a shared shower. 

3. Sleeper Plus Class: Sleeper Cabin for Two 

These typically include bunk-style beds. With comfortable armchairs that converts to the lower bed in the evenings, travel with complete comfort and privacy. Each cabin has its own private washroom, with toilet and sink. 

4. Prestige Class: Sleeper Cabin Suite 

The Prestige Sleeper cabin is 50% larger than the cabin for two in Sleeper Plus class. It features an extra-large window and has its own private washroom with shower. A modular leather L-shaped couch transforms at night into a Murphy bed for two facing the window. 

Comparison: Sleeper Train Service Levels

Each service level on Canadian sleeper trains provides a unique blend of comfort, luxury, and opportunities to immerse yourself in Canada’s stunning landscapes.

Sleeper Plus Class

  • Three different styles: berths (lower or upper), a cabin for one or a cabin for two. Two cabins for two can be joined to create larger units for four. 
  • Typically include bunk-style beds. With a comfortable armchair that converts to a bed in the evenings.
  •  Cabins have a private toilet. The cabin for one has a toilet hidden under a chair, while the cabin for two has a separate toilet.
  • On the Canadian Train, sleeper plus passengers have access to a shared in-car shower.

Included with Sleeper Plus: 

  • Meals are included, featuring regional Canadian cuisine served in the dining car, where you can enjoy scenic views as you dine.
  • Sleeper Plus also grants access to the Skyline Car, whose upper domed area is the perfect spot for wildlife viewing or soaking in the vastness of the Canadian wilderness. From Fall through Spring, Sleeper Plus travellers can also access the upper level of the Park Car. In summer, accesss to the Park Car is limited to the evenings. 
  • Priority boarding and access to the station lounges in Vancouver/Toronto.

Prestige Class  

  • Luxury sleeper train across Canada, only available on VIA Rail’s Canadian Train from Toronto to Vancouver. 
  • The Prestige Sleeper cabin is 50 per cent larger than the cabin for two in Sleeper Plus class, with an extra-large window. 
  • Private washroom with shower. 
  • A modular leather L-shaped couch transforms into a Murphy bed for two facing the window.
  • All-inclusive service while on the train. 

Included with Prestige Class:

  • All meals, pre-dining appetizers, complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. 
  • An exclusive concierge service tends to your every need and provides a turndown service every night. 
  • Reserved seating in the Panorama and Prestige Park Cars. 

#2 Travel tip: Use train stops for showering

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Sometimes the train needs to stop for freight traffic. This is a great time to go for a shower if you're worried about the train motion.

Blog Author - Athena McKenzie
Athena McKenzie
Content Manager

See inside the Canadian sleeper train

An aerial view of the Prestige cabin onboard the Canadian train.

Prestige cabin during day

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Get inspired with sample itineraries, train information, route maps, and travel advice from our local experts.

Planning Your Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations

Embarking on a overnight train journey across Canada offers a unique and unforgettable experience. VIA Rail offers Canada’s only sleeper train, but its Prestige class is the epitome of luxury. These sleeper train cabins are designed to provide the utmost comfort and elegance, featuring modern accommodations, private bathrooms, and personalized service. Travelling on a luxury sleeper train across Canada allows you to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities while enjoying top-tier amenities.

Booking Tips

When planning your journey on a sleeper rail across Canada, it's crucial to book well in advance. Lead times can vary, but securing your spot several months ahead is advisable, especially for peak travel seasons. Canadiantrainvacations.com offers numerous itinerary options throughout the year, from shorter regional trips to the iconic cross-country journey from Toronto to Vancouver. Our local experts provide expert advice and can tailor your trip to match your preferences and schedule.

Cost Considerations

Luxury sleeper train travel in Canada comes with a higher price point, but the value it offers is unparalleled. The cost of Canadian train trips with sleeper accommodations includes all-inclusive amenities such as gourmet meals, wind and beer, exclusive access to lounges, and personalized service. While the investment is significant, the experience of traveling in a Prestige class cabin—with its luxurious comforts and breathtaking views—justifies the expense for many travelers seeking a memorable adventure.

Best Times to Travel

The best time to embark on a Canadian sleeper train depends on what you hope to experience. Spring and summer offer vibrant landscapes, with lush greenery and blooming flowers, while autumn showcases Canada's famous foliage in stunning shades of red and gold. Winter, though colder, provides a serene and snowy backdrop that transforms the scenery into a winter wonderland. Consider the pros and cons of each season in terms of scenery and passenger volume. Summer tends to be busier, while fall and winter offer a quieter, more intimate travel experience.

The available activities and excursions will also depend on the season. If you want to do something like dog-sledding in the Rockies (December through March) or whale watching on the West Coast (best in May through September), you’ll have to plan accordingly.

What to Pack

Packing for a luxury sleeper train trip in Canada requires some thoughtful preparation. Here’s a tailored packing list to ensure you have everything you need:

  • Comfortable Clothing: Bring casual, comfortable attire for daytime wear. The trains in Canada are fairly casual though some people do change for supper.
  •  Layered Clothing: The weather can change quickly, especially when traveling through the Canadian Rockies. Pack layers to adjust to different temperatures.
  • Personal Toiletries: While Prestige class cabins provide essentials, your favorite toiletries can add a personal touch of comfort.
  • Entertainment: Bring books, magazines, or download movies and music for downtime in your cabin.
  • Camera: The scenic vistas you'll encounter are worth capturing, so a good camera is a must.
    Travel Documents: Ensure you have your tickets, identification, and any other necessary travel documents handy.

Places to visit by Sleeper Trains

Canada was built along the historic Canadian Rail system, so it makes sense that many major Canadian cities are easily accessible by train. With train stations often centrally located within these cosmopolitan cities or remote towns, it is easy to explore the best of Canada by train. 

Vancouver 

Vancouver is a delightfully liveable city throughout the year, but it really shines in the summertime. You'll have the best of both worlds — the culture, dining and shopping of a world class metropolis and mountains and hiking trails right on the doorstep. The climate of Vancouver is also ideal in the summer — not too cold, but also not scorching hot. It's just the right temperature to treat yourself to some ice cream as you wander around the city. 

People walking across at an intersection in Vancouver’s Gastown neighbourhood

Jasper 

This small mountain town at the centre of Jasper National Park offers visitors a laid-back mountain experience – with lots of options for adventure, discovery or relaxation. While we recommend visiting any time of year, it’s truly magical in winter, which is why it is part of our Rockies Rail Winter Wonderland sleeper train vacation. 

Athabasca Falls in Jasper National Park covered in snow with mountains in the background

Banff 

The town of Banff, established in 1885, is the hub of Banff National Park. A lively mountain town with great restaurants, Banff is a welcome change of pace. Enjoy strolling Banff Avenue or try one of the numerous outdoor adventures offered in this outdoor playground. Banff was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for the mountain peaks, glaciers, lakes, and waterfalls. 

Banff Avenue, a busy street in Banff, is in front of towering mountains 

Lake Louise 

The quaint hamlet in the heart of the Rockies is named after the nearby lake. Known for its sparkling turquoise blue waters and impressive glacier-clad peaks, Lake Louise offers a surreal paddling experience in the warm summer months and one of the most scenic skating rinks in the world in winter. It’s a must-do on any of our train packages to the Rockies. 

Turquoise blue waters of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Montreal 

The French-speaking city of Montréal is located on island in the Saint Lawrence River and named after Mt. Royal. Its 19 boroughs, many of which were once independent cities, include neighbourhoods such as French colonial Vieux-Montréal – with imposing Notre-Dame Basilica at its center – to industrial Sud-Ouest and artist-friendly Plateau. Speak to your Canadian Train Vacations travel advisor about adding a few days in the city to your trip to Eastern Canada.  

Groups of people walk through a busy street in Old Montreal

Quebec 

The tiny cobblestone streets, steep hills and welcoming squares of this European-esque city are a delight to explore under blue summer skies. Once you have had your fill of the quaint, French-Canadian charm after wandering through the streets, you can head to the The Baie de Beauport, the city's beach. Watch the locals play beach volleyball as the sunlight sparkles on the water. 

A couple having a picnic on a grassy hill in front of the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac

Toronto 

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and is a cultural hub. There are great neighbourhoods, wonderful restaurants, bars and museums, Broadway shows, concerts and galleries. Along with landmarks, such as the CN Tower, Rogers Centre (better known as the Skydome), you’ll want to discover its hidden gems.  Walk its vibrant, quirky neighbourhoods that reflect the incredible diversity of Canada's population. Niagara Falls is also an easy day trip from Toronto and a must-do if you’re only getting to this area once.  

Toronto’s city skyline is across from Lake Ontario and a green park with trees

Halifax 

Halifax is the largest port in Canada's Maritime Provinces. Stroll along the cobbled streets exploring galleries and shops and dine out on fresh lobster on your visit. 

The city’s ties to the sea and the Celtic people are evident in the dialect of the locals, the songs and fiddle music played in the pubs, and the wonderful maritime museum on the harbourfront. Talk to your Canadian Train Vacation Advisor about a day trip to explore Cape Breton and to Peggy’s Cove, one of Canada’s iconic destinations.

Pickford and Black restaurant with a patio on the waterfront in Halifax at sunset

Churchill 

Located on the edge of the Arctic, Churchill offers the feel of a rugged frontier town with all the amenities of an international tourist destination. Known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, visitors flock to Churchill in October and November to view polar bears in the wild, and again in June and July to watch beluga whales in the Churchill River. The sleeper train to Churchill from Winnipeg is a truly unique opportunity to meet the locals — and maybe even see the Northern Lights. 

Check Out:  Northern Lights Train Trip Vacation

A person watches a polar bear walking in the snow in Churchill

Ottawa 

Immerse yourself in Canadian culture in the capital city of Ottawa. Take a walking tour of the Gothic Parliament buildings and the downtown core, a vibrant mix of neighbourhoods at the confluence of three rivers. This city offers something special at every time of year. There’s a multitude of festivals in Summer, stunning Fall colours, skating on the Rideau Canal in Winter, and the world-famous tulip festival in Spring. 

Three people walk across a street in downtown Ottawa on a summer’s day

What Our Customers Say

We all loved taking the sleeper train from Vancouver to Jasper

The day trip to Victoria was long, but memorable. Butchart Gardens is a world class treasure. We all loved taking the sleeper train from Vancouver to Jasper best. It was such a dif... 

Lisa, Michael and Family review of their [object Object] trip

Lisa, Michael and Family

OH, USA

Why book your sleeper train in Canada with Canadian Train Vacations?

We take care of all the details

You want to relax and enjoy your trip, not get overwhelmed by the planning. Let us make all of the bookings for you, including rail tickets, hotels, excursions and activities, meals and transfers.

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Independent travel with expert support

Enjoy local expertise and guidance with a personalized itinerary. Your preferences and needs are our priority. We take care of you from the moment you land until the moment you leave.

Get help when you need it

You’ll receive the inside scoop before you even leave home. And you can relax during your vacation because we’re only a phone call away if you have any questions while you’re in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there private cabins on Canada’s sleeper trains?

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.

Can I shower on the train?

Yes, you can shower on Canada’s sleeper trains. VIA Rail’s Sleeper Plus class has shower in each train car. VIA Rail’s Prestige Class cabins have a private shower.

Are meals included on Canada’s overnight train?

Yes. Except for Economy Class tickets, all meals are included on VIA Rail’s sleeper routes. In Economy Class, meals and snacks are available for purchase.

How much does a Canadian train trip with sleeper accommodations cost?

The cost depends on the route, service class and length of your trip. Our packages that include a sleeper train start at $3,230 per person.

What trains can you sleep on in Canada?

Two trains in Canada offer sleeper accommodations, VIA Rail's The Canadian and The Ocean.

Do trains in Canada have beds?

Yes, two trains in Canada, VIA Rail's The Canadian and The Ocean, offer sleeper cabins with beds. The Canadian’s Prestige class cabins come with a private bedroom, en-suite bathroom, and top-notch amenities.

How much is a sleeper car from Toronto to Vancouver?

The cost of a sleeper car from Toronto to Vancouver varies depending on the class and time of booking. On average, sleeper cabins range from $1,500 to $10,000 CAD per person.

Are Canadian sleeper trains worth it?

Sleeper trains are worth it for those seeking a unique travel experience that combines comfort, luxury, and scenic views. The convenience of overnight travel and the all-inclusive amenities make it a valuable choice for many travellers.

Is Rocky Mountaineer a sleeper train?

No, the Rocky Mountaineer is not a sleeper train. It offers luxury daylight train journeys with overnight stays in hotels along the route.

Is there a sleeper train from Quebec City to Toronto?

There is no direct sleeper train from Quebec City to Toronto. VIA Rail offers comfortable day train services between these cities.

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About the author: Louise Weiss is Director of Legendary Hospitality with Fresh Tracks Canada. Having worked in the Canadian travel industry for more than 25 years, she enjoys sharing her local expertise with visitors. She is based in North Vancouver and has spent time... Read more

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