Operating year-round, the VIA Canadian is one of the world’s great train journeys. Travelling 4466km, VIA Rail’s signature train journey takes four days to travel between Toronto and Vancouver, offering comfortable sleeping carriages, outstanding dining, double-story panoramic dome cars, and a peaceful, elegant ambiance. With its wide viewing windows, watch the country’s landscape transform before you, from the lakes of Ontario, across the prairies and through the mighty Rockies. Guests can explore key towns or cities along the way, or just sit back in comfort and enjoy the views.
Length of Trip : 4 Days
Cost : Price depends on whether you’re travelling Economy Class, Sleeper Plus Class (with meals included), Upper berth, lower berth or want your own cabin. Prices range from $1000 – $4000 per person one way. Click here for more info
Best time to go : The Canadian runs year-round, with limited service in winter months. The views change with the seasons, so can be as spectacular (if not more) in fall as they are in the spring. Summer brings longer days with more chance to look out the window.
Wheelchair friendly : Yes
Family friendly : Yes, although make sure the kids bring books and games to keep them entertained.
Where to eat : The renovated dining cars serve outstanding full-course meals. Meals are included in the price of the Sleeper Plus class ticket. Cold drinks, snacks and other beverages are always available in the Skyline car. Other than baby food and formula, passengers are forbidden to bring their own food on board.
Official Site : Click here for more information about The Canadian
Getting There : The Canadian departs from either Toronto Union Station or Vancouver Pacific Central Station, although it can be joined at various stops along the way.
Note from Robin : VIA have invested more than $22million into refurbishing the Canadian, with all-new designs, carpets, and cabins (some with double beds). Staff are wonderfully friendly and offer various activities throughout the journey, such as beer tastings, games and talks about the landscape.