Train & Rail Tours & Trips in North America
Could you see yourself boarding VIA Rail to Jasper, exploring Jasper National Park, cruising Maligne Lake, visiting Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and discovering Banff? Keep going and cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge, ride the famous Rocky Mountaineer through the Rockies, and walk the Columbia Icefield Skywalk? Canadian rails are calling you!
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Diane • traveled in July
Our overall experience was good, but were very disappointed by our stay in the last hotel, the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth in Montreal.
Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton with Ocean Train to Montreal - K
Karla • traveled in September, 2024
The overall organization was excellent and seamless as was the guide. Our original itinerary was side blinded because of the shutdown of Jasper, so our hotel accommodations for two nights ended up being at a casino somewhere in the plains of Alberta- pretty far from any city center. There were endeavors so keep us entertained although the location for those two nights was less than ideal although the accommodations were bright and clean. The journey on the Royal Mountaineer was elegant, but each day ended up being 14 hours which was way too long. The description said 9-10 hours and I didn't realize that meant each day, and that those days ended up being longer. The service was excellent as was the scenery, just way too long on the train.
Western Canada by Rail - P
Pamela • traveled in August, 2024
Interesting tour, hitting all the high points on the east coast if Canada. Will come back again to spend more time in the cities as the tour touches on everything but not enough time which is expected. Very comfortable hotels and transport. The train to Halifax was great, excellent service and well worth doing, would recommend adding this on to all the trips.
Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax
10 best Train & Rail North America tour packages
Compiled by
NinaNorth America travel expert at TourRadar
- Western Canada by Rail
- Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax
- Canadian Rockies by Train
- Great Canadian Rail Journey
- Eastern Canada by Rail
- Magnificent Canadian Rockies & Rail
- Canadian Train Odyssey
- Colorful Colorado: Parks, Peaks & Panoramas with Canyon Spirit
- Western Canada by Rail with Calgary Stampede
- Coastal Charm and French Flair: Halifax to Montreal by Rail
Western Canada by Rail
108 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Truly stunning mountain scenery through the Rockies to Vancouver with guest appearances from bears, elk, eagles and gophers!”
Andrew, traveled in June
The Rocky Mountaineer passes Mount Robson and Hell's Gate along North America's scenic rail routes. Fraser Canyon's vistas, North Thompson River valleys, and Monashee Mountains unfold with SilverLeaf Service and overnight stay in Kamloops.
Duration 9 days Destinations Calgary, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Mount Robson Provincial Park, Kamloops, Vancouver, Victoria Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Cosmos From $4,327
8% Off- US$3,977+$153 upfront costsYou save $350
Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax
171 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Guide and driver excellent. Would have like portage at the hotels and availability of walk in showers.”
Linda, traveled in October
The VIA Rail's Ocean train offers an overnight journey from Montréal to Halifax in private Sleeper Plus class. The rail route winds through scenic New Brunswick and Nova Scotia landscapes, complemented by deluxe motorcoach travel between major cities.
Duration 11 days Destinations Toronto, Niagara Falls, Kingston, Thousand Islands National Park, Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Cosmos From
8% Off- US$2,862+$167 upfront costs
Canadian Rockies by Train
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Everything was well organized from the lodging to the food to the activities. We recommend Tours of Distinction to everyone.”
Robert, traveled in July
VIA Rail's 'The Canadian' presents premier views from Jasper through the Rockies to Kamloops via dome cars. Vancouver's Stanley Park and Gastown await exploration. Package includes train tickets and hotel stays.
Duration 8 days Destinations Calgary, Banff, Jasper, Kamloops, Vancouver Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Tours of Distinction From $3,999
5% Off- US$3,799You save $200
Great Canadian Rail Journey
177 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Excellent itinerary and well thought out. A wonderful experience.”
Steven, traveled in August
VIA Rail's restored art-deco cars transport passengers across North America, featuring Sleeper Plus cabins and dome car viewing. The route spans five provinces with gourmet dining, followed by Rockies' national parks exploration via luxury motorcoach.
Duration 14 days Destinations Toronto, Winnipeg, Jasper National Park, Banff National Park, Kamloops, Victoria, Vancouver Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Globus From $7,853
3% Off- US$7,603+$185 upfront costsYou save $250
This 10-day train trip through Eastern Canada features comfortable rail travel with air-conditioning and power points, covering Toronto to Montreal with scenic routes past Lake Ontario and the Saint Lawrence River. A boat cruise takes you through the Thousand Islands and its narrow channels. E-bike Ottawa's extensive bike paths through Gatineau Park. Ride the historic Old Quebec Funicular connecting Upper and Lower Town. Sample local wines in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Try BeaverTails pastries in Quebec City and classic poutine on Ile d'Orleans while traveling between 7 destinations.
Duration 10 days Destinations Toronto, Niagara Falls, Thousand Islands National Park, Ottawa, Quebec City, Jacques Cartier National Park, Montreal Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $4,590
15% Off- US$3,902You save $689
Travel through UNESCO-listed Jasper National Park and Banff National Park with stays at Fairmont properties including Fairmont Banff Springs and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Take a 90-minute cruise to Spirit Island on Maligne Lake, soar above Whistler on a 12-minute helicopter flightseeing tour, and ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. This fully escorted 15-day trip for up to 36 guests includes 4 Scenic Enrich activities, 19 Freechoice excursions, and all tipping and gratuities.
Duration 15 days Destinations Vancouver, Kamloops, Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Sun Peaks, Whistler, Victoria Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours From
15% Off- US$15,610
Canadian Train Odyssey
47 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great places and accommodation. Totally satisfied with the itinerary.”
Alexandera, traveled in September
VIA Rail's Canadian offers premier views plus ferry rides through Gulf Islands. The journey features Niagara Falls cruise, Columbia Icefield expedition, and visits to five national parks including Banff and Jasper.
Duration 15 days Destinations Toronto, Niagara Falls (USA), Winnipeg, Jasper National Park, Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Kamloops, Victoria, Vancouver Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Cosmos From $5,363
2% Off- US$5,263+$116 upfront costsYou save $100
What our customers ask about Train & Rail Tours & Trips in North America
What are the most scenic train routes in North America?
North America's railway network offers exceptional routes that showcase the continent's diverse landscapes. The Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Jasper winds through the Coast Mountains and Canadian Rockies giving passengers front-row views of glaciers waterfalls and wildlife. The VIA Rail's "The Canadian" connects Toronto to Vancouver passing through changing terrains from the lakes of Muskoka to the sprawling Prairies and mountain ranges. A TourRadar traveler described their Rocky Mountaineer experience: "The scenery was absolutely breathtaking as we traveled through the Canadian Rockies. The glass-dome cars provided incredible panoramic views of snow-capped peaks glacial lakes and rushing rivers."
What are the top stops or destinations along the most popular train routes in North America?
Each route features carefully selected stops that highlight Canada's natural and urban attractions. The Rocky Mountaineer's journey includes key destinations like Vancouver Kamloops and the national parks of Banff and Jasper. Passengers on VIA Rail's The Canadian experience major urban centers including Toronto Winnipeg Edmonton and Vancouver while traveling through remarkable landscapes. The Ocean Train route between Montreal and Halifax provides views of the Maritime provinces and St. Lawrence River. A TourRadar reviewer noted: "The stops in Jasper and Banff were highlights with stunning mountain scenery. We had time to explore the historic Banff Springs Hotel and take a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for incredible views of six mountain ranges."
What accommodation options are available on overnight train journeys?
Train accommodations across North America range from basic to luxurious. VIA Rail's The Canadian features Upper and Lower Berths for budget-conscious travelers private cabins with washbasins for couples or solo travelers and upscale Prestige Class cabins with en-suite bathrooms. The Rocky Mountaineer provides two service levels: GoldLeaf with its distinctive bi-level dome cars and SilverLeaf featuring large viewing windows. According to a TourRadar traveler: "The Prestige Class cabin on VIA Rail was incredibly comfortable - we had our own private washroom and the large windows were perfect for viewing the passing landscapes."
What type of meals and dining experiences are offered on train tours?
Long-distance trains across North America take pride in their dining service. VIA Rail's The Canadian provides three daily meals in an elegant dining car complete with white tablecloths for sleeping car passengers. The Rocky Mountaineer differentiates its service levels with GoldLeaf passengers eating in a dedicated dining room while SilverLeaf guests enjoy meals at their seats. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The food on the Rocky Mountaineer exceeded our expectations - from fresh Canadian salmon to local wines every meal was a culinary journey through the region."
How long are typical North American rail journeys?
Rail journeys vary from single-day excursions to extended cross-country adventures. The Rocky Mountaineer's First Passage to the West takes 2-3 days between Vancouver and Banff while VIA Rail's cross-continental route from Toronto to Vancouver spans 4-5 days. Most rail tour packages run 8-14 days including scheduled stops for local exploration. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The journey on the Royal Mountaineer was elegant with each day being about 14 hours of stunning views through the Canadian Rockies."
When is the best time to take a train tour in North America?
Train tours reach their peak from May through September when weather conditions are most reliable. The Canadian Rockies show their best colors in July and August as wildflowers bloom and hiking paths open up. Fall brings spectacular foliage viewing opportunities in Eastern Canada and New England during September and October. Winter journeys offer unique perspectives of snow-covered landscapes though service may be limited on some routes. A TourRadar traveler observed: "The scenery was stunning - through the Rockies to Vancouver with guest appearances from bears elk eagles and gophers!"