Great Canadian Rail Odyssey
This coast-to-coast Canadian rail holiday reveals Canada in all its scale and diversity, travelling from the Pacific coastline of Vancouver through the dramatic peaks of the Canadian Rockies and across the vast landscapes of the country to the Atlantic shores of Nova Scotia. Combining world-renowned Rocky Mountaineer holidays with VIA Rail’s iconic long-distance routes, including The Canadian and The Ocean, the journey blends breathtaking scenery with time in some of Canada’s most vibrant cities.
From: UK Airport
Overview
This coast-to-coast rail itinerary showcases the very best of Canada, travelling from the Pacific shores of Vancouver to the Atlantic coastline of Nova Scotia. The journey combines Canada’s most iconic rail experiences, including the world-renowned Rocky Mountaineer through the Canadian Rockies and VIA Rail’s iconic long-distance routes, The Canadian and The Ocean.
Along the way, dramatic mountain scenery, glacier-fed lakes and vast open landscapes unfold from the comfort of panoramic rail carriages. Time is also spent in some of Canada’s most distinctive cities, from the vibrant west coast of Vancouver to the historic streets of Quebec City and the maritime charm of Halifax. Seamlessly blending iconic rail journeys, unforgettable landscapes and carefully selected overnight stays, this itinerary offers a truly immersive and memorable way to experience Canada by rail.
Trip Highlights
- Enjoy 48-hour Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing in Vancouver
- Marvel at the beauty of the Canadian Rockies, including Jasper, Banff, and the Icefields Parkway.
- Take a spectacular day trip to Niagara Falls, one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.
- Discover the maritime magic of Halifax, including the picturesque village of Peggy’s Cove.
What's Included
Accommodation
- 2-nights hotel accommodation in Vancouver, Jasper, Toronto, Montreal and Halifax
- Overnight hotel accommodation in Kamloops, Banff and Quebec
- 4-nights accommodation aboard VIA Rail with meals included
Transport
- Flights from UK to Vancouver and return from Halifax
- Rocky Mountaineer, VIA Rail The Canadian & The Ocean
Excursions
- Hop-on, hop-off bus tour in Vancouver
- Icefields Parkway and Rockies Discovery Tour from Jasper to Banff
- Daytrip to Niagara Falls
- Heart of Montreal tour
- Best of Halifax and Peggy's Cove
Day’s Itinerary
Get PricesVancouver
Depart the UK and arrive in Vancouver. Transfer to your hotel, settle in, and enjoy your evening exploring the city’s waterfront, or relax after your flight. (Overnight in Vancouver)
Vancouver
Enjoy a 48-hour Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour to discover the best of Vancouver — from Stanley Park and Granville Island to Gastown’s charming cobbled streets. (Overnight in Vancouver)
Vancouver to Kamloops
This morning, with a package transfer you'll head to the railway station to begin your journey aboard the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer. Travelling from Vancouver to Kamloops, the route winds through dramatic scenery, passing coastal mountains, deep canyons and rushing rivers as the landscape gradually transforms into the rugged interior of British Columbia. Enjoy attentive service and panoramic views throughout the day before arriving in Kamloops for an overnight stay. (Overnight in Kamloops
Jasper
Continue your journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer as you travel from Kamloops to Jasper, passing through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Canadian Rockies. Highlights along the route include pristine lakes, towering mountain peaks and dramatic river valleys, with ever-changing landscapes unfolding from the comfort of the train. On arrival in Jasper, a package transfer will take you to your hotel, where the remainder of the day is at leisure. (Overnight in Jasper).
Banff
Today you travel along the world-famous Icefields Parkway, one of Canada’s most scenic mountain routes, on a guided Rockies Discovery Tour from Jasper to Banff. The journey showcases towering peaks, turquoise lakes, ancient glaciers and sweeping alpine vistas, with opportunities to stop at key viewpoints along the way. Arriving in Banff, you’ll have time to settle into your hotel and enjoy the charming mountain town at leisure. (Overnight in Banff).
Jasper
Travel by shuttle transfer back to Jasper, taking in more stunning views of the Rockies along the way. (Overnight in Jasper).
Jasper to Toronto
Join The Canadian for a spectacular transcontinental rail journey across Canada’s heartland. Relax and enjoy the comfort and beauty of life onboard. (Overnight onboard VIA Rail).
Jasper to Toronto
Watch as the dramatic Rockies give way to the vast, golden plains of Alberta and Saskatchewan. (Overnight onboard VIA Rail).
Jasper to Toronto
Continue eastward, passing through tranquil lakes and forests as you approach Toronto. (Overnight onboard VIA Rail).
Toronto
Arrive in Toronto, Canada’s largest city. Check into your hotel and enjoy the evening exploring at your own pace. (Overnight in Toronto).
Toronto
Take a full-day excursion to the world-famous Niagara Falls. Experience its power up close before returning to Toronto in the evening. (Overnight in Toronto).
Montreal
Board VIA Rail for your journey to Montreal, a city known for its European flair and cultural richness. (Overnight in Montreal).
Montreal
Discover the “Heart of Montreal” on a guided motorcoach city tour, visiting highlights such as Old Montreal, Mount Royal, and the Notre-Dame Basilica. (Overnight in Montreal).
Quebec City
Travel by train to Quebec City, the only walled city in North America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Overnight in Quebec City).
Quebec City to Halifax
Board The Ocean, VIA Rail’s iconic overnight sleeper train, for your journey along Canada’s east coast. (Overnight onboard VIA Rail).
Halifax
Arrive in Halifax, the maritime gem of Nova Scotia, and transfer to your hotel. (Overnight in Halifax).
Halifax
Enjoy a guided tour of Halifax’s highlights, including a visit to the postcard-perfect fishing village of Peggy’s Cove. (Overnight in Halifax).
Return home
Transfer to Halifax Airport for your return overnight flight to the UK, marking the end of your incredible coast-to-coast journey.
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Testimonials & Reviews
Got questions about your rail holiday?
What makes Marvellous Escapes’ rail holidays different?
All our trips are 100% tailor-made. We design your journey around your interests, pace, budget, and preferred travel style.
Can you customise my itinerary?
Absolutely. Nothing is off the shelf. Whether you want a scenic rail journey through the Alps, a cultural city break, or a multi-country adventure, we design your itinerary from scratch.
What happens if my train is delayed or cancelled?
If your train is delayed or cancelled, don’t worry, we’re here to help. You’ll have access to our 24-hour on-trip support, and our team will assist with rebooking your journey, adjusting connections, or arranging alternatives where needed. We’ll make sure you can continue your trip with as little disruption as possible.
Do I need to print my train tickets?
We’ll send you a full printed ticket pack 2–3 weeks before departure, which includes all your train tickets, itinerary and travel documents. You’ll also receive a digital copy of your tickets, so you can choose whichever format you prefer when travelling.
What financial protection do you provide?
We protect every booking with our ATOL licence, the UK Package Travel Regulations, and a secure trust account (Protected Trust Services), ensuring your money and your holiday are safe.
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