Great Canadian Rail Journey

Itinerary

Day 1 – London to Halifax

Fly direct from Heathrow to Nova Scotia's capital.

Day 2 – Halifax at Leisure

Enjoy a day exploring this bustling maritime city. Why not take a stroll down the 4km long Harbour walk which winds along the colourful waterfront. Explore the Citadel with its distinctive Clock Tower and be reminded of the city's rich past.

Day 3 – Nova Scotia to Québec

This afternoon, board the VIA rail train to Montreal, travelling along the Maritime Way through Truro, Amherst and Moncton. Overnight onboard in an Economy reclining seat or a Sleeper Plus Cabin for Two. In the latter, all meals are included in the price of your ticket and priority reserved sitting is given in the dining car.

Day 4 – Morning Arrival into Montreal

Montreal was a favourite of Portillo's, he was particularly taken with the 'Frenchness' of the culture.
Expect the French language to be spoken and French cuisine to be served. Old Montreal is picturesque and full of character; some of the buildings date back to the 1600s.

Day 5 – Rail to Québec City

Choose from a morning or lunchtime departure for your journey along the St. Lawrence River to Québec City. The old town here is a UNESCO World Heritage site; a living museum of narrow cobblestone streets, 17th and 18th Century houses and soaring church spires, with the splendid Château Frontenac towering above it all.

Day 6 – Train de Charlevoix

The riverside rail line beyond Québec City was closed to passengers for many years, it now runs as a tourist railway to Baie St Paul and onto La Malbaie. As Montmorency Falls station is out of the town, a shuttle bus runs in summer (included).

Day 7 – Onto Ottawa

Continue by rail along the Corridor route to Ottawa this morning, arriving in time to start exploring Canada's capital.

Day 8 – Ottawa at Leisure

There are plenty of sights to see, including Parliament Hill, the setting of the daily ‘Changing of the Guard’, ByWard Market and the Rideau Canal, another UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 9 – Train to Toronto

Carry on down the Corridor route today to Toronto, there are several services daily. Toronto is a vibrant city, buzzing with activity and packed full of museums and galleries. If city life isn't your thing, take a ferry out to the islands on Lake Ontario for stunning views of the city skyline.

Day 10 – The Canadian

After a day at leisure, board this famous train which runs all the way across Western Canada to Vancouver, taking 4 days. You may wish to break up the journey en route, just remember that there are only two trains a week in each direction.

Days 11 & 12 – Sioux Lookout to Edmonton

Breathtaking forests, rivers and fauna; that's what this route is all about. If you opt to travel in Sleeper Plus Class, you will have a roomy armchair, a comfortable cabin for 1-4 people, access to an in-car shower and the panorama car and all of your meals included to enjoy along the way. It is possible to disembark in Winnipeg to travel up to Churchill along one of VIA's Adventure routes. This journey takes an additional 3 days and 2 nights each way and may need additional nights in Winnipeg and Churchill to fit in with the train schedules.

Day 13 – Jasper to Kamloops

The train arrives into Jasper this morning for a day's travel through the Canadian Rockies. Sit back and take in the spectacular scenery.

Day 14 – Morning Arrival into Vancouver

Arrive in time for a full day to discover the sights of this beautiful and vibrant city. There is plenty to see and do in Vancouver from boat trips to helicopter rides, shopping, restaurants or simply a walk through Stanley Park.

Days 15 & 16 – Fly Home

After another day soaking up everything this city has to offer. This evening, fly direct back to London Heathrow, arriving late morning.

Alternatively, you may wish to extend your trip with a Rocky Mountaineer package, such as their 'Journey Through the Clouds' which we can also book for you.

Please note, the Ocean route, Train de Charlevoix and The Canadian do not operate every day. Additional nights may be needed to fit in with the rail schedules.