VIA Rail Pricing Guide

VIA Rail is Canada’s national passenger rail service, offering scenic and comfortable train travel across the country. Whether you're taking a short trip through Ontario’s Corridor or embarking on a cross-country adventure from Toronto to Vancouver, understanding VIA Rail prices can help you plan your journey effectively.

The cost of a VIA Rail ticket depends on several factors, including the distance travelled, class of service, and seasonality. Prices fluctuate based on demand, with peak summer fares being higher than off-season winter rates. Additionally, travel in Sleeper Plus or Prestige Class includes amenities like private cabins, gourmet meals, and panoramic views, leading to a higher fare compared to Economy or Business Class.

The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations by Fresh Tracks Canada specialize in planning trips on VIA Rail. In this guide, we give an overview of VIA Rail prices. Please note: the prices listed on this page refer to rail tickets only. Our curated Canadiantrainvacations.com itineraries offer personalized experiences, combining VIA Rail travel with premium accommodations, airport transfers, guided excursions, and an exclusive welcome dinner. You’ll also enjoy support from our local experts from planning through travel. 

As stated above, the price of a VIA Rail ticket varies due to several factors. Understanding these elements can help you find the best fares and plan your trip accordingly. 

1. Distance and Route Complexity 

Regional routes in Ontario and Québec tend to be lower in cost compared to transcontinental adventures. For example, shorter routes (e.g., Toronto–Montreal on the Corridor train) are priced less than long-haul journeys on a sleeper train, such as between Toronto and Vancouver on The Canadian Train. The Canadian is the longest VIA Rail route, spanning 4,466 km and offering multiple travel classes with varying price points. 

2. Class of Service 

• Economy Class: The most affordable option, offering standard seating and onboard food for purchase. 
• Business Class: Higher ticket cost due to spacious seating, complimentary meals, and lounge access. 
• Sleeper Plus Class: Private cabins and berths available with included meals, showers, and exclusive access to observation cars. 
• Prestige Class: The most premium and expensive option, featuring full-size beds, ensuite showers, 24/7 concierge service, and all-inclusive dining. 

3. Seasonal Demand 

Peak Season (June–September): Higher fares due to increased demand for summer rail travel. 

Off-Peak Season (October–April): More affordable fares, especially for long-distance routes like The Canadian and The Ocean. 

Winter Travel Discounts: VIA Rail often offers promotions on sleeper cabins during the low season. 

4. Promotional Periods and Advance-Booking Discounts 

• Booking Early: VIA Rail prices fluctuate based on availability; booking 3–6 months in advance often secures better fares. 
• Last-Minute Deals: Occasionally, VIA Rail offers discounted last-minute fares, but availability is limited. 
• Multi-Destination Packages: Bundling train tickets with hotels, transfers, and sightseeing excursions through CanadianTrainVacations.com provides additional value. 

By considering these factors, you can maximize value while planning your VIA Rail journey, whether opting for Economy Class affordability or Prestige Class luxury.

VIA Rail offers multiple fare classes, each tailored to different travel styles and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly seat for a short trip or an all-inclusive luxury rail journey, understanding the key differences between Economy, Business, Sleeper Plus, and Prestige Class will help you choose the right option. 

Below is a detailed breakdown of VIA Rail pricing and what each class includes.

VIA Rail Class Comparison Table 

1. Economy Class – Budget-Friendly Travel 

The most affordable way to travel on VIA Rail, Economy Class offers comfortable reclining seats and large windows for scenic views. 

✔️ Standard seating with tray tables and power outlets 

✔️ Wi-Fi available on select routes (The Corridor: Toronto–Ottawa–Montréal–Québec City) 

✔️ Food and beverages available for purchase in the café car  

Note: This class is not offered with Canadian Train Vacation by Fresh Tracks Canada itineraries. 

2. Business Class – Comfort and Convenience 

A step up from Economy, Business Class provides a premium travel experience with spacious seating and complimentary meals. This class experience is only offered on The Corridor trains in Ontario and Quebec.  

✔️ Meals, snacks, and beverages (including wine) included in fare 

✔️ Access to Business Lounges at major stations 

✔️ Priority boarding and comfortable workspaces

3. Sleeper Plus Class – Private Overnight Travel 

Available on both of VIA Rail sleeper trains (The Ocean and The Canadian) Sleeper Plus Class includes private cabins or sleeper berths, turning your journey into a comfortable, overnight experience. 

✔️ Private cabins with seating that converts into beds 

✔️ All meals included in the dining car 

✔️ Showers available in sleeper cars 

✔️ Exclusive access to scenic dome cars and Sleeper Plus lounges

4. Prestige Class – VIA Rail’s Most Luxurious Experience 

Available only on The Canadian (Toronto–Vancouver), Prestige Class is VIA Rail’s top-tier offering, featuring spacious private suites with ensuite bathrooms. 

✔️ Gourmet meals, wine, and premium spirits included 

✔️ Personal concierge service available 24/7 

✔️ Priority check-in, boarding, and luggage handling 

✔️ Private shower and full-size bed in a spacious suite

Sample VIA Rail Pricing for Each Class on Popular Routes 

Note: These VIA Rail prices are for rail tickets only. Canadian Train Vacations offers personalized itineraries that include hotels, airport transfers, guided excursions, a premium dining experience, and support from local experts from planning through travel.  

Below is an overview of VIA Rail prices for key routes, including The Canadian, The Ocean, and The Corridor—three of the most popular rail journeys in Canada. Do note that these prices are based on information at the time of publication and are subject to change.  

1. The Canadian (Toronto–Vancouver) 

Route Overview: 

• Distance: 4,466 km 
• Duration: Approximately 4 days, 4 nights 
• Scenic Highlights: The Canadian Shield, Prairies, Canadian Rockies, and Fraser Canyon 

Estimated VIA Rail Prices for The Canadian:

Note: VIA Rail Toronto to Vancouver Prestige Class price varies by season, with peak summer fares being the highest. These prices are for rail only.

2. The Ocean (Montreal–Halifax) 

Route Overview: 

• Distance: 1,346 km 
• Duration: 22 hours 
• Scenic Highlights: St. Lawrence River, New Brunswick coastline, Maritime villages 

Estimated VIA Rail Prices for The Ocean: 

Note: VIA Rail Ocean Sleeper cost is typically lower in winter and spring, making it a great time to book. These prices are for rail only. These prices are for rail only.

3. The Corridor (Toronto–Ottawa–Montreal–Québec City)  

Route Overview: 

• Distance: Varies (500–1,150 km) 
• Duration: 3–5 hours per segment 
• Scenic Highlights: Lakes, rivers, and historic urban skylines 

Estimated VIA Rail Prices for The Corridor: 

Note: VIA Rail ticket prices in The Corridor vary depending on departure time and seat availability. These prices are for rail only.

• Book Early: Prices fluctuate based on availability, so booking three to six months in advance secures better fares.  
• Travel Off-Peak: Winter and early spring tend to have the lowest VIA Rail prices, while summer is peak season.  
• Look for deals on sleeper trains: VIA Rail often offers discounts on Sleeper Plus Class during off-peak months. 

While the prices listed above reflect rail-only fares, our customized Canadian train vacations include: 

 ✔️ VIA Rail tickets in your preferred class 

 ✔️ Hotel stays before and after your journey 

 ✔️ Airport transfers and sightseeing excursions 

 ✔️ Exclusive welcome meals and guided tours 

For a seamless travel experience, book your VIA Rail journey with CanadianTrainVacations.com, where we handle everything from train tickets to accommodations and excursions.

Train travel is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s an experience. Our curated itineraries combine scenic train routes, premium accommodations, guided excursions, and seamless transfers, offering stress-free, inclusive rail vacations. Below are three samples of our itineraries showcasing the best of Canada. These trips can be personalized to your needs and interests.  

Classic Eastern Canada by Train 

You're right again—I appreciate your patience. I was using incorrect assumptions based on VIA Rail's general routes rather than strictly following the Canadian Train Vacations itinerary. Now, I will strictly base this on the details from the official itinerary page. 

Here is the correct description based solely on the actual itinerary for the Eastern Canada Railway Adventure: 

Eastern Canada Railway Adventure 

• Route: Montréal – Québec City – Halifax 
•  Duration: 8 Days 
• Best For: Travellers who want to experience the history, culture, and coastal charm of Eastern Canada by train. 

This inclusive rail vacation takes you through French Canada’s cultural centres and the stunning Atlantic coast. Travel aboard VIA Rail’s Corridor routes and The Ocean, enjoying the perfect mix of city exploration, scenic rail travel, and coastal heritage. 

Trip Highlights: 

• Discover Old Montréal on a private guided tour, exploring Notre-Dame Basilica, cobblestone streets, and the lively Old Port. 
• Explore Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a private tour of the Château Frontenac, Place Royale, and the historic fortifications. 
• Travel overnight aboard The Ocean in Sleeper Plus Class, enjoying a private cabin, full-service dining, and access to panoramic observation cars. 
• Arrive in Halifax and explore its maritime heritage, including Citadel Hill, Pier 21, and the scenic waterfront. 
• Visit Peggy’s Cove, home to one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, and take in the stunning coastal scenery of Nova Scotia. 

Approximate Price: From $5,990 per person (double occupancy) 

Inclusions: 

• VIA Rail Business Class tickets (Montréal–Québec City) 
• VIA Rail Sleeper Plus Class ticket (Québec City–Halifax on The Ocean) 
• Six nights in premium hotels, plus one overnight onboard The Ocean 
• Private guided tours in Montréal, Québec City, and Halifax 
• All airport and train station transfers 
• Exclusive welcome dinner 

View Full Itinerary 

Canadian Cross-Country Journey 

This nine-day, coast-to-coast train journey takes you from Toronto to Vancouver, through the rugged Canadian Shield, the sweeping Prairies, and the Canadian Rockies. Travel aboard The Canadian, VIA Rail’s premier long-distance train, and experience luxury rail travel combined with expertly curated city tours. 

Trip Highlights: 

• Begin in Toronto, with a private city tour featuring the CN Tower, Harbourfront, and the city’s historic neighbourhoods or choose a day tour to iconic Niagara Falls.  
• Board The Canadian train, travelling west through the forests of Northern Ontario and the vast Prairies, enjoying panoramic views from glass-dome observation cars and gourmet meals in the dining car. 
• Continue into the Canadian Rockies, travelling along the Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise and Banff, with time to enjoy glacial lakes, mountain views, and guided sightseeing. 
• End your journey in Vancouver, with a private guided tour of Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the city’s waterfront, offering a perfect conclusion to this coast-to-coast rail adventure. 

Inclusions: 

• VIA Rail Sleeper Plus Class tickets (Toronto-Vancouver) 
• Eight nights in hotels and onboard accommodations 
• All onboard meals while on The Canadian 
• Small group guided tours in Vancouver and Toronto 
• Transfers between train stations, hotels, and airports

Approximate Price: From $5,860 per person (double occupancy)