Everything you need to know about train travel in Canada

Canada boasts a vast rail network featuring stunning journeys. However, since most of the system is dedicated to freight and many Canadians prefer to travel long distances by car or plane, trains are less frequently used outside the eastern corridor cities of Toronto and Montréal compared to Asia or Europe.

This trend wasn’t always the case. In the 1940s, annual ridership on Canadian trains reached 60 million, but it sharply declined in the 1950s as car ownership rose. Nowadays, approximately 5 million passengers ride 500 weekly trains (excluding commuter services) operated by the government-run Via Rail. Additionally, private companies offer more luxurious experiences, with the renowned Rocky Mountaineer standing out as a five-star hotel on wheels.

Trains tend to be sluggish

Although the Canadian rail network generally offers high-quality service, particularly in business and sleeper classes, its trains are much slower than Japan's bullet trains or France's TGVs. Passenger trains must often wait for freight trains, which dominate the rail traffic, leading to long delays and frequent lateness.

An exception is the rapid intercity trains that connect Toronto, Ottawa, and Montréal, completing the eastern corridor route in just over five hours.

VIA Rail operates the majority of services

Most of the rail network is managed by VIA Rail, while a few private companies run specialized routes, mainly aimed at tourists. Additionally, several services managed by the US company Amtrak cross the border to Vancouver, Toronto, and Montréal.

VIA Rail operates two notable trains: the cross-country Canadian, which is considered one of the world’s premier rail journeys connecting Vancouver and Toronto, and the Ocean, which transports passengers from Montréal to Halifax in Nova Scotia. Additionally, VIA Rail offers five Scenic Adventure routes that cater to both tourists and local residents, featuring flag-stops that allow passengers to board or disembark upon request, often in remote areas.

In addition to VIA Rail, several commuter lines serve the areas around Vancouver, Toronto, and Montréal, collectively accommodating significantly higher passenger volumes—up to 100 million annually. Vancouver features the West Coast Express, Toronto has GO Transit, and Montréal is served by Exo.

The VIA Rail network does not reach Prince Edward Island or Newfoundland and Labrador, nor does it extend to the northern territories. However, the Yukon operates the privately-run White Pass and Yukon Route tourist train, which runs during the summer between Carcross and Skagway, Alaska.

VIA Rail's carriages are typically of high quality, featuring spacious reclining seats and power outlets even in economy class. Long-distance overnight trains are especially roomy, providing access to a skyline car with a dome section for breathtaking views. Passengers can purchase food and drinks from an onboard café. The iconic Canadian train continues to use its original stainless-steel coaches from 1955.

Sleeper plus class is available on the Canadian, the Ocean, and the Winnipeg–Churchill routes. Passengers can select between open berths or private compartments with one or two beds. All overnight services, except for Winnipeg–Churchill, include access to a dedicated restaurant car that offers three meals per day, included in the ticket price.

A notch above sleeper plus is the prestige sleeper, exclusively offered on the Canadian train. It provides luxurious hotel-style accommodations featuring private bathrooms, a complimentary mini-bar, TVs, and access to a private lounge in the so-called “park car” located at the train's rear.

Daytime trains in Canada’s eastern corridor are available in either economy or business class, with the latter offering meals and increased baggage allowances.

Montréal and Toronto serve as key rail hubs for commuters.

Canadian trains are far less congested compared to European countries like the UK or France, which see over a billion passengers annually. However, ridership is notably higher in the rail corridor between Québec City and Windsor, especially between the major hubs of Montréal and Toronto. Outside this corridor, trains are primarily used for scenic trips and see minimal commuter traffic.

Scenic trains primarily cater to tourists.

The five Scenic Adventure routes include the Jasper–Prince Rupert (the Skeena) in British Columbia, Winnipeg–Churchill in Manitoba, Sudbury–White River in Ontario, and the routes from Montréal to Senneterre and Jonquière in Québec. Some services, like the Jasper–Prince Rupert line, attract only about 7,000 passengers annually, making them particularly quiet.

Numerous private companies enhance VIA's offerings, with the most renowned being Rocky Mountaineer. Their luxurious trains operate between Vancouver and either Banff or Jasper. The “First Passage to the West” route is the only passenger train to travel along the historic Canadian Pacific Railway tracks, which were the first cross-continental railway completed in 1885, and it passes through the famous Spiral Tunnels in Yoho National Park.

A similar experience is offered by Royal Canadian Pacific, which provides cruise-like luxury on multi-day trips with hotel stays around the Rockies. Neither company offers sleeper services, as accommodations are arranged in hotels instead.

Ontario features two private rail lines: the Algoma Central Railway, which provides access to the remote wilderness of northern Ontario, and Ontario Northland, which operates the Polar Bear Express five times a week.

The White Pass and Yukon Route, established in 1900, connects Carcross (Yukon) and Skagway (Alaska) and follows the historic path taken by prospectors heading to the Klondike gold fields. Diesel engines pull charming vintage parlor-style carriages.

Make sure to book early for the best ticket prices.

Canadian train fares are quite affordable given the level of comfort, especially when compared to buses and flights. Among Canada’s three primary public transport options (air, bus, and train), rail travel is by far the most comfortable.

Peak season runs from June to mid-October, during which ticket prices can be approximately 40% higher. Purchasing tickets in advance can lead to significant savings of up to 30%. The earlier you book, the better. Tickets can be purchased online through the official VIA Rail website or at stations, and you can also call 1-888-842-7245 for assistance.

It is strongly advised to make seat reservations, particularly during summer, weekends, and holidays. In peak season, popular sleeping accommodations can sell out months ahead, especially on long-distance routes like the Canadian. The Winnipeg–Churchill service tends to fill up quickly during polar bear season, from late September to early November. You can select a specific seat in advance.

You can upgrade from economy to business class on daytime trains and from economy to sleeper class on overnight journeys, though this upgrade costs more than double the original fare.

Some limited discounts are available for travelers.

Discounts are offered for children under 12 (50%), members of Hosteling International (12.5%), Canadian military personnel (25%), Indigenous individuals (33%), Canadian Automobile Association members (up to 20%), and groups of ten or more. Children under two travel for free. Make sure to carry all necessary ID while traveling. Currently, there are no rail passes available for Canadian trains, but frequent travelers can enroll in the “VIA Preference” program to earn points for future trips. Ticket prices are reduced on Tuesdays.

The cost of a train ticket is similar to that of renting a car and purchasing fuel.

Like the US, Canada is predominantly car-centric. Many Canadians, especially in the west, may never use an intercity train throughout their lives. Renting a car is straightforward, and the road network is extensive. However, trains produce less carbon emissions per passenger (55kg of CO² versus 104kg for a car) and are slightly faster on the quick intercity routes in the eastern corridor. When fuel costs are considered, renting a car often matches the price of a train ticket.

Most major urban train stations are conveniently located near downtown areas with excellent connections to other transport options. Additionally, larger stations typically feature car rental services.

Onboard amenities are generally of good quality.

All VIA Rail trains offer some form of onboard dining, ranging from cafes and trolleys on daytime routes to full restaurant cars on overnight journeys like the Canadian and Ocean. Every train is equipped with restrooms, which are generally well-maintained. Most trains also provide free wi-fi, although service may be inconsistent in certain areas.

VIA Rail's baggage policies are akin to those of airlines. Passengers can take a carry-on bag weighing up to 23kg at no extra charge. For checked luggage, there is a fee of C$25 per bag. Small folding bikes are considered carry-on, while other bikes are subject to a C$25 checked baggage charge.

While Canadian trains may be slower and less frequent than their European equivalents, they tend to offer greater comfort. This applies across all classes, from economy to business, sleeper plus, and prestige. Blankets and pillows are supplied for overnight trips, and business class offers added comfort, especially in the southern Ontario/Québec corridor and on the Canadian and Ocean trains. For the highest level of luxury, choose prestige class on the Canadian.

Facilities at stations can differ widely.

Urban train stations are typically located in or near city centers and often feature a few food and beverage options, though they are far from the mini-airports seen in European cities. Both Toronto and Montréal have dedicated lounges for business class passengers, while rural stations are generally small with minimal staffing and may serve only as flag-stops.

Here’s our selection of the finest train journeys in Canada.

The Canadian

Renowned as Canada’s most iconic train, the Canadian traverses an impressive cross-continental journey that spans four days and covers 4466km (2775 miles) from Vancouver to Toronto, with stops at Jasper, Edmonton, Saskatoon, and Winnipeg. Passengers are treated to a breathtaking array of the country’s diverse ecosystems, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the vast prairies, and the tranquil lakes and forests of the Canadian Shield. Traveling westward offers extended stops in Jasper and Edmonton.

White Pass and Yukon Route

This brief yet breathtaking journey takes you along the steep slopes of White Pass, tracing the historic path of the Klondike gold rush. The heritage railway features original parlor carriages from the 1880s. Don’t miss the chance to stand on the outdoor viewing platform as you make your way down into Skagway.

Winnipeg–Churchill

As Canada’s northernmost passenger train service, this route travels through flat prairies and patches of boreal forest, serving as the only overland access to the polar bear viewing hotspot of Churchill, located on the shores of Hudson Bay.

The Skeena: train number 5

Traversing the heart of British Columbia, VIA Rail’s train number 5, previously known as the Skeena, provides an extraordinary two-day journey between Jasper and Prince Rupert. This route showcases coniferous forests, rolling farmland, and snow-capped mountains, with locals utilizing the many flag-stops along the way. A standout feature is the stunning view of the towering southeast face of Mt. Robson, just an hour west of Jasper.

First Passage to the West

The pinnacle of Canadian train journeys is the Rocky Mountaineer, which offers services as breathtaking as the views, complete with gourmet breakfasts, knowledgeable guides, and luxurious leather seats. This original and most sought-after route connects Banff and Vancouver, including an overnight stay in Kamloops.

Advance booking is recommended for those with accessibility needs or special requirements.

All trains accommodate wheelchairs and feature washrooms equipped with grab-bars. Most stations provide wheelchair lifts. Passengers unable to reach the restaurant car can enjoy meals served at their seats. Service dogs are permitted on board and may occupy an extra seat at no additional cost.

It’s advisable to book early for accessible facilities and to mention any specific requirements ahead of time, as availability may be limited. For further details, visit VIA Rail’s accessibility page.