While train travel is a popular and efficient way to get around in Europe or parts of Asia, it’s far less common in Canada. Our country’s sheer size and focus on air and car travel mean that rail routes are fewer and slower. That said, traveling across Canada by train offers some of the most scenic and memorable rail routes in the world.
Canada is a land of vast landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unforgettable views. And for those willing to slow down and take the scenic route, train travel offers a unique and immersive way to experience it all. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about enjoying the ride, the views, and the stories along the way.
Why Choose Train Travel in Canada?
Traveling across Canada by train might not be the fastest or most common option, but it offers something that planes and highways can’t: an unforgettable journey through some of the country’s most stunning and remote landscapes.
Comfort and Convenience
Spacious seating, room to move, and panoramic windows make rail travel feel luxurious—especially when compared to cramped airplanes or long drives. Many long-distance trains include dining cars, Wi-Fi, and even sleeper cabins for overnight travel, with space for luggage, CPAP masks, and other essentials.
A More Sustainable Option
If you’re looking to lower your travel carbon footprint, trains are a great choice. They use significantly less energy than planes and offer a more environmentally friendly way to see the country.
Epic Views
From the towering peaks of the Rockies to the quiet charm of eastern coastal towns, Canada’s train routes deliver jaw-dropping scenery you won’t get from 30,000 feet.
Must-Try Train Routes in Canada
Canada’s rail network isn’t vast, but the routes that do exist are bucket list-worthy. Here are a few of the most iconic:
Toronto to Vancouver (The Canadian)
If you are looking at traveling across Canada by train, the Canadian train is it.
This legendary four-day journey aboard The Canadian is one of the most iconic rail experiences in North America. Linking Toronto in the east to Vancouver on the Pacific coast, the route cuts across a stunning slice of Canada’s diverse geography—from the golden prairies of Manitoba and Saskatchewan to the boreal forests of northern Ontario and the dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains.
It’s not just transportation—it’s an immersive, slow-travel experience. Onboard, passengers can stretch out in spacious cabins or lounges, dine on locally inspired meals in the dining car, and enjoy ever-changing views from panoramic windows. The ride is relaxed and unhurried, inviting you to disconnect from busy schedules and reconnect with the landscape.
The Canadian is a bucket-list trip for rail enthusiasts and travelers seeking a unique way to explore the heart of Canada—without ever having to touch the wheel. For more details, check out this post on the 10 things you need to know before taking the Canadian Train.
Starting price: approximately $500 CAD for economy class (sleeper accommodations available at additional cost)
Vancouver to Banff or Lake Louise (Rocky Mountaineer)
The Rocky Mountaineer offers one of the most luxurious and scenic rail experiences in the world. This daylight-only train connects Vancouver with the stunning mountain towns of Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper, depending on the route chosen. While it doesn’t run all the way to Calgary, many travelers connect onward by road from the Rockies.
Designed specifically for sightseeing, the Rocky Mountaineer features custom glass-domed coaches for uninterrupted views of glacier-fed rivers, lush forests, and snow-capped peaks. Guests are treated to exceptional onboard service, regionally inspired gourmet meals, and fascinating commentary about the history, geology, and wildlife along the way.
The journey is unhurried and immersive, with overnight hotel stays in places like Kamloops or Whistler, allowing travelers to rest comfortably before continuing their adventure the next day.
This is a premium experience meant for those who want to soak up the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies in comfort and style.
Note: As a luxury train, pricing is significantly higher than standard rail routes.
Montreal to Halifax (The Ocean)
The Ocean is VIA Rail’s longest-running route, offering a classic overnight rail experience between Montreal and Halifax. This 23-hour journey travels through the picturesque regions of Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, passing charming towns, Acadian communities, and scenic coastal stretches along the way.
While not as widely known as some western routes, The Ocean offers a relaxed and nostalgic rail experience, complete with sleeper cabins, a dining car, and lounge access for those in higher service classes. The pace is unhurried, giving travelers time to soak in the changing landscapes—from rolling farmland and dense forests to glimpses of the Atlantic coastline.
It’s an ideal option for those wanting to explore Canada’s Maritime provinces without flying or driving, and a great way to experience the slower rhythm and charm of Eastern Canada.
Starting price: approximately $250 CAD for economy class (sleeper and business class options available at higher rates)
Regional Routes
While the cross-country journeys get most of the spotlight, VIA Rail’s regional routes in Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes offer some of the most convenient and culturally rich rail experiences in Canada. These shorter trips connect major cities with charming small towns and lesser-known destinations, making them ideal for day trips or weekend getaways.
Routes like Toronto to Ottawa, Montreal to Quebec City, or Halifax to Moncton deliver reliable service with scenic views and easy access to historic downtowns. Many of these VIA trains offer Business Class service, which has become a personal favorite—think roomy seats, complimentary meals and drinks, priority boarding, and a quieter, more comfortable ride.
If you’re looking to explore Canada at a more local level while enjoying a relaxed and efficient travel experience, these regional routes are well worth considering. They may not be long-haul adventures, but they’re packed with character and convenience.
Essential Travel Tips
A bit of prep goes a long way when it comes to Canadian rail travel. Here’s how to make the most of your trip:
- Book early: Especially during summer or holiday periods, tickets can sell out quickly.
- Pick your seat: Consider window placement, direction of travel, and proximity to amenities.
- Pack smart: Bring snacks, entertainment, layers, and any essentials for long-haul comfort.
- Know your stops: Some routes include overnight layovers or longer breaks—plan accordingly.
- Check the weather: Conditions can shift dramatically across provinces. Be ready for it all.
- Stay Connected on Your Journey with an eSIM: While cell coverage can be limited on some of these remote rail routes, having an eSIM for cities along the way ensures you’re connected when it matters most. With the Canada Travel eSIM (2025 Updated) from providers like TooSim, travelers can easily purchase and activate affordable data plans before their trip. Share your experiences, navigate unfamiliar stops, and stay in touch with loved ones throughout your rail adventure.
Are You Up To Traveling Across Canada by Train?
Canada’s train routes may be fewer than in other countries, but what they lack in quantity, they more than make up for in unforgettable moments and jaw-dropping scenery. From the rugged peaks of the Rockies to the quiet charm of eastern fishing villages, traveling by train offers a front-row seat to some of the most stunning landscapes this country has to offer.
Whether you’re watching snow-capped mountains drift past your cabin window, sipping coffee as coastal towns roll by in the morning light, or stretching out in a comfortable seat with nothing to do but enjoy the view, train travel in Canada invites you to slow down and take it all in.
It’s a uniquely rewarding way to see this vast and beautiful country—not just as a series of destinations, but as a living, changing landscape that unfolds mile by mile. If you’re looking to experience Canada beyond the highways and airport terminals, the rails are waiting.
What say you?
Thoughts on Traveling Across Canada by Train?
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