Looking for an unforgettable way to experience Canada’s vastly scenic views? From coast to coast, train travel in Canada belongs on every traveller’s bucket list. 

Travelling across Canada by train

When you picture Canada, chances are you think of scenic landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and bright turquoise lakes. As the second biggest country in the world, there’s no shortage of sights to explore, but getting from one region to the next isn’t an easy feat. 

Flying is the most convenient option, but it means you’ll miss all the breathtaking scenery in between. Road trips are another great option, but they come with long driving days and plenty of planning. Travelling by train lets you slow down, sit back, and relax as you take in the country’s views without worrying about navigation or airport lines.

Major carriers offer train routes across the country, all suited to different budgets, schedules, and travel styles. For many travellers, taking the train through Canada’s soaring beauty is a truly once-in-a-lifetime slow-travel experience. 

VIA Rail Canada train travel

Whether you want to visit Canada’s fun, bustling cities or take in pristine, jaw-dropping views, VIA Rail makes it easy to travel across the country in comfort. As Canada’s top long-distance train network, VIA Rail serves more than 400 stations across eight provinces and operates routes ranging from city-to-city trips to cross-country journeys.

Most trains offer free Wi-Fi and power outlets on board so you can stay connected while you travel. Depending on your route, you can choose from Economy, Business, Sleeper Plus, or Prestige class for an upgraded experience with added amenities. 

With routes across the nation, there are countless ways to experience train travel in Canada. Below, we’ve put together some of the top train routes—sure to blow you away with unforgettable views along the way. 

The Canadian Route

Toronto to Vancouver: 4 nights / 4 days 

Popular stopovers: Winnipeg, Edmonton, Jasper, Kamloops

The Canadian is one of VIA Rail’s most popular cross-country train journeys. This train trip starts in Toronto and quickly takes travellers through enchanting forests, grand prairies, and unbelievable mountain passes before arriving in Vancouver. 

Covering 4,466km across five provinces, this route showcases the natural diversity and quaint communities across Canada. Travellers can choose from Economy, Sleeper Plus, and Prestige classes, with onboard amenities like comfortable seating, sleeper cabins, dining cars, lounge areas, and panoramic dome cars. 

Hotel recommendations

The Ocean

Montreal to Halifax: 1 night / 1 day

Popular stopovers: Ste-Foy, Rivière-du-Loup, Rimouski, Mont-Joli, Campbellton, Bathurst, Moncton, Truro 

The Ocean connects two of Eastern Canada’s most vibrant cities–Montreal and Halifax. Both destinations offer a mix of culture, history, and charm that makes for an unforgettable journey.

The trip begins in Montreal and travels through the scenic landscapes of Quebec and Atlantic Canada. Passing through the Montérégie Hills and the coast of Baie-des-Chaleurs, you’ll see rolling hills, forests, and coastal stretches along the way. After arriving in Halifax, you’ll be in the perfect hub to explore Nova Scotia and get your dose of that warm Maritime hospitality. 

Hotel recommendations

The Corridor 

Quebec City to Windsor

Potential stopovers: Sainte-Foy, Montreal, Ottawa, Kingston, Toronto, Niagara Falls, London, and Windsor

If you want to experience world-class cities, natural wonders, and understated views, the Corridor route is for you. As the busiest passenger rail route in Canada, it links many of the country’s most popular cities and destinations. Travellers can easily move between destinations without traffic or airport stress, making it an easy way to explore Central Canada.

Along this train route, you’ll pass through east coast cities like Montreal, Ottawa, Kingston, Toronto, and the natural wonder of Niagara Falls. With frequent departures and flexible scheduling, you can customize your trip to spend the most time in places you want to explore most. 

Hotel recommendations

The Best of Manitoba

Winnipeg to Churchill: 2 days / 2 nights 

Potential stopovers: The Pas and Thompson

This 1,700km train route in Canada showcases some of the country’s most overlooked and underrated regions. Starting in Winnipeg, the route travels deep into Northern Manitoba and into the subarctic landscapes around Churchill. 

Nearly every season offers something special along this route. Winter travellers may catch the Northern Lights, autumn offers the chance to see polar bears, and summer is one of the best times to spot beautiful belugas. 

Hotel recommendations 

The Pacific North Coast 

Jasper to Prince Rupert: 2 days / 1 night

Potential stopovers: Prince George 

This 1,160km rail journey through British Columbia showcases some of the province’s most stunning landscapes and will leave you feeling enchanted by nature’s mastery. Starting in Jasper National Park, breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and emerald trees will sweep you away. The route then travels through remote communities, farmland, and the rugged landscapes of the Canadian Rockies and Pacific Northwest.

Once you arrive in Prince Rupert, you can continue your adventure with activities like whale-watching and coastline explorations. It’s an unforgettable way to experience some of the Great North’s panoramic landscapes that look almost too good to be true!

Hotel recommendations

Ready to explore Canada by rail?

Travelling through Canada by train is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the country’s scenic landscapes, vibrant cities, and natural beauty. Whether you’re journeying through the Rockies, exploring the Maritimes, or venturing into Northern Manitoba, every route offers a unique look at the Great White North. 

If you’re ready to start planning your rail journey, explore Skyscanner to find the best rates on flights, hotels, and car rentals throughout your trip.