Discover Canada by Rail
Experience Canada's extraordinary landscapes from the comfort of some of the world's most iconic train journeys.
There's something timeless about exploring Canada by train. Picture black bears foraging along a riverbank, a bald eagle circling overhead or a herd of elk grazing beside the tracks, all seen from the comfort of a glass-domed carriage as glaciers, forests, mountain peaks and vast open plains unfold beyond your window. Whether you're travelling through the Canadian Rockies aboard the Rocky Mountaineer or crossing the country on The Canadian, rail travel offers a relaxed and immersive way to experience one of the world's most spectacular landscapes, and the journey becomes just as memorable as the destinations themselves.
Travelling by rail allows you to slow down and let Canada come to you, with panoramic views, exceptional onboard service and a genuine sense of occasion to every mile. Every itinerary is tailor made, combining these iconic rail journeys with time to explore Canada's cities, national parks and wilderness at your own pace.
Canada's Greatest Rail Journeys
The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the world's most celebrated rail journeys. Travelling by daylight between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies, it passes towering mountains, rushing rivers and dramatic canyons before arriving in Banff, Lake Louise or Jasper. With glass-domed coaches, outstanding service and locally inspired dining, this is a journey where the champagne toast at breakfast and the mountain goats spotted from the window are as much a part of the holiday as the destinations at either end.
For travellers wanting to experience Canada's immense scale, The Canadian offers a classic transcontinental adventure. Travelling between Toronto and Vancouver, it crosses forests, lakes, prairie landscapes and the Rockies over several days and nights, revealing parts of the country that few visitors ever see and giving you time to properly unwind as the scenery changes outside your window.
Where to Combine Your Rail Journey
Most rail holidays begin in Vancouver before continuing into the Rockies, where Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper offer spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and countless opportunities to explore on foot or by canoe. Many travellers combine the Rocky Mountaineer with a self-drive through the Rockies, while others extend their journey aboard The Canadian to experience even more of Canada's remarkable landscapes and vibrant cities, from the mountains of Alberta to the streets of Toronto.
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Our Canada Rail Holiday specialist, Sophie, says:
“Travelling by rail lets you experience Canada at a completely different pace. Instead of concentrating on the road, you can simply watch the landscape unfold, spotting black bears, elk and bald eagles, following rivers through mountain valleys and appreciating just how vast the country really is. I often recommend combining the Rocky Mountaineer with time in Banff and Jasper, or extending the journey on The Canadian if you want to experience Canada's incredible scale. The train is never just a way of getting from A to B, it's one of the highlights of the holiday.”
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Canada Rail Holiday FAQs
Planning a Canada Rail Holiday? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
Is a rail holiday a good way to see Canada?
Absolutely. Canada's rail journeys are among the most scenic in the world, allowing you to enjoy spectacular landscapes without driving. They combine beautifully with stays in cities, national parks and luxury lodges, creating a relaxed and memorable way to explore the country.
What's the difference between the Rocky Mountaineer and The Canadian?
The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury daylight train through western Canada, famous for its glass-domed coaches, exceptional service and spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery. The Canadian is VIA Rail's classic transcontinental journey, travelling between Toronto and Vancouver over several days, showcasing the immense scale and diversity of Canada.
Where does the Rocky Mountaineer go?
The Rocky Mountaineer operates several routes through British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies, connecting Vancouver with destinations including Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper. Each route is designed so that the most spectacular scenery is experienced during daylight hours.
Can I combine rail travel with a self-drive holiday?
Yes. Many travellers combine a rail journey with a self-drive through the Canadian Rockies or British Columbia, giving you the best of both worlds: unforgettable rail travel alongside the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
When is the best time for a rail holiday in Canada?
Most rail journeys operate between spring and autumn, with June to September offering long daylight hours, excellent weather and spectacular mountain scenery. Autumn is particularly beautiful as the forests turn shades of red and gold and wildlife such as elk and bears become more active before winter.
How long should a Canada rail holiday be?
We usually recommend ten to sixteen nights. This allows plenty of time to enjoy your rail journey while exploring destinations such as Vancouver, Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise, with the option to continue east on The Canadian or combine your trip with a self-drive or wildlife adventure.
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