Experience the mountain passes and rocky lakeshores on board of the world famous Rocky Mountaineer.
CANADIAN RAIL HOLIDAYS
An unforgettable and scenic adventure with Rocky Mountaineer
Expect to find
Breathtaking Scenery
See glaciers, sparkling lakes and towering mountain peaks
Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for bears, eagles, elk and other local wildlife
Onboard Luxury
Enjoy spacious coaches, panoramic windows and gourmet meals
Overview
Discover Canada by Rail
Embark on a timeless rail journey past coastal forests, roaring rivers, and snow-capped peaks! There is an old-fashioned, evocative romance that comes with travelling by train. Our Canadian Rail Tours allow you to experience life on board a luxurious rail carriage with plenty of stops at some great locations along the way.
Cross the entire country of Canada from Toronto to Vancouver, travel through the Canadian Rockies. Visit the great cities of Eastern Canada or travel to the Maritime on our selection of rail tours featured here.
Call us to Plan Your Unforgettable Trip
We have some amazing rail journeys that cover beautiful destinations suitable for various budgets. If you can’t find something you like, please contact us and we will do our best to find a trip you’ll love.
Our Top Canadian Rail Holidays
Discover the beauty of Canada by rail.
Rocky Mountaineer First Passage to the West
Rocky Mountaineer First Passage to the West
8 Nights From €2975 per person
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Alaska Cruise & Rocky Mountaineer Train Tour
Alaska Cruise & Rocky Mountaineer Train Tour
12 Nights From €4999 per person
Set off on the holiday of a lifetime to Canada with this fantastic package that combines an Alaskan cruise and a rail tour through the Rocky Mountains.
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Places to See
Banff National Park
Towering Peaks and an Iconic Lake
Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, Banff National Park is a must-see for any traveller. Dramatic peaks and turquoise lakes make every view unforgettable. Whether you stroll along Lake Louise, explore the town of Banff, or ride the Banff Gondola for sweeping vistas, there’s plenty to keep you inspired.
Jasper National Park
Explore the Wilderness
Jasper offers a quieter, more wild side of the Rockies. Glaciers, waterfalls and expansive forests that stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s also an excellent destination for wildlife spotting, so keep a keen eye out for bears, eagles and more!
Kamloops
Riverside Views and Sunshine
A quaint town in British Columbia, Kamloops is known for its sunny weather, beautiful rivers and outdoor activities. It is a great place to stretch your legs, enjoy a coffee in a local café or explore the surrounding hikes before continuing your journey.
Vancouver
City Life with Mountain Views
You can start or end your rail journey in Vancouver, a bustling city surrounded by mountains and water. Take a stroll along the waterfront, explore Stanley Park, or wander the markets and try some of the local food. It’s a brilliant way to kick off or finish your Rockies adventure.
Guides
Staff Tips
Don’t forget to pack a camera and binoculars so you can snap pictures of wildlife and the stunning scenery around you! Keep an eye out for eagles, bears, and elk on your journey.
Linda CollinsPersonal Travel Planner
If your itinerary includes stopovers, make sure you make the most of them. Plan to see a couple of sights at each stop, whether that’s taking a ride on the cable cars in Banff or heading to Heritage Park Historical Village, a living history museum showcasing life in Western Canada.
Linda CollinsPersonal Travel Planner
Make sure you layer up, even during the summer. Mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cool in the Rockies, so a light jacket or jumper will keep you cosy on your travels.
Linda CollinsPersonal Travel Planner
Canadian Rail Frequently Asked Questions
Which routes travel through the Canadian Rockies, and what cities do they start and end in?
The Rocky Mountaineer offers several routes through the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. The most popular journeys travel between Vancouver and Banff, Lake Louise or Jasper.
When is the best time of year to travel on the Rocky Mountaineer?
The Rocky Mountaineer runs from April to October, and the best time to go depends on what you want to see. April to May is cooler, with snow still on the peaks and fewer crowds. June to August is the warmest period, characterised by clear skies and long days that are ideal for sightseeing. September to October offers comfortable temperatures and beautiful autumn colours across the Rockies.
How long does a typical Rocky Mountaineer journey take?
Most Rocky Mountaineer routes take two or three days to complete, depending on the itinerary. The train only travels during daylight hour so that you can make the most of the incredible views, with overnight stays in comfortable hotels along the way.
Is the train an overnight experience, or do passengers stay in hotels along the route?
The Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight-only train. Instead of sleeping on board, you’ll spend the night in hotels that are included in your package. Your luggage is transferred for you, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the journey.
How far in advance should I book a Rocky Mountaineer holiday?
The Rocky Mountaineer is a very popular experience, so it’s best to book as early as possible. Booking in advance ensures you get your preferred dates, route, and hotel options, especially during peak travel months from June to September.
What level of comfort and service can I expect on board?
Expect friendly hosts, exceptional service and spacious, comfortable seating. You can enjoy delicious meals and drinks served at your seat, along with fascinating commentary about the sights along the way. Large windows and glass-domed carriages make sure you never miss a view.
What’s the difference between the SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf Service levels?
SilverLeaf offers spacious single-level coaches with large windows and meals served at your seat, giving you a comfortable way to take in the Rockies. GoldLeaf takes the experience further with bi-level glass-domed coaches, gourmet dining, and an exclusive, large outdoor viewing platform.
What should I pack for a Rockies rail holiday?
Bring layers, as temperatures can change quickly in the mountains. Comfortable shoes, a jacket for cooler mornings or evenings, and a camera are essential. You’ll be sitting most of the day, so a small bag with anything you need close at hand works best.
How is luggage handled during the journey — do I need to carry my bags on the train?
You don’t need to worry about your main luggage. It’s transferred between your hotels and the train for you, so all you need is a small day bag for snacks, a camera, or a jacket.
Is there Wi-Fi or mobile signal available onboard?
Wi-Fi isn’t available on the train, and mobile signal can be patchy through the mountains. It’s a great chance to switch off and enjoy the scenery without distractions.
Are special dietary requirements or accessibility needs accommodated on the train?
Yes, the team can cater for dietary needs and accessibility requirements. It’s best to let your Personal Travel Planner know when booking so everything can be arranged in advance.
What’s included in a Rocky Mountaineer package?
Your package includes all daytime train travel, gourmet meals and drinks onboard, overnight hotel stays and luggage transfers between the train and your hotel. Depending on your itinerary, additional sightseeing options may also be included.
Can I combine my rail journey with extra nights in cities like Vancouver, Banff, or Jasper?
Absolutely. It’s easy to add extra nights before or after your rail journey, just speak to one of our friendly Personal Travel Planners, who will be happy to help.
Are Rocky Mountaineer holidays suitable for families, couples, or solo travellers?
Most Rocky Mountaineer guests are adults, although a small number of children travel with them each season. The journey is ideal for couples and solo travellers looking for a relaxing, scenic holiday, while families with older kids can also enjoy the adventure together.
What kind of scenery will I see on a Rockies rail trip?
Think glaciers, lakes, rushing rivers and dramatic mountain passes. Keep an eye out for wildlife too, including elk, eagles and even bears!
Are there any excursions or experiences available at stopover points along the route?
Yes, depending on your itinerary, optional experiences are available at some stopovers. This can include guided tours, wildlife spotting, or visits to nearby national parks.
Can I connect my Rocky Mountaineer journey with an Alaska cruise or other Canadian destinations?
Absolutely. Many travellers combine the rail journey with an Alaska cruise from Vancouver, or extend their holiday to explore more places, such as Vancouver Island.
