![Destination: Canada by the VIA Rail Train](/assets/images/destinations_assets/dest_VIA-Rail.jpg)
- Duration
- 7 Days
- Activity Level
- Easy
- Group Size
- 27
Vancouver to Toronto by RailItinerary
VIA Rail Canada operates on tracks owned by freight companies, like other passenger railways in North America. While VIA Rail strives for on-time departures and arrivals, increased freight traffic on the railway will often cause delays. These delays could result in delayed departure from Toronto, delayed arrival in to Vancouver, and shortened / limited time off of the train. The majority of your time on this tour will be spent aboard the train. Simply unplug and embrace the journey. Onboard services are guaranteed. Any changes to the schedule will be communicated and updated throughout the journey.
Day 1: Arrive in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Upon arrival to Vancouver International Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hotel.
As with many Fairmont properties, the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver carries a rich historical legacy, having welcomed dignitaries and celebrities since its opening in 1939.
After settling into your room enjoy leisure time to capture the sights and sounds of this bustling metropolis or perhaps indulge in the luxurious amenities at the hotel.
This evening relax and mingle with fellow travelers during a special welcome reception.
Overnight: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (R)
Day 2: Vancouver | Board VIA Rail’s The Canadian
Friday, August 8, 2025
After breakfast set off on a guided city tour including free time to explore Granville Island.
Later transfer to Pacific Central Station to embark upon The Canadian. Celebrate the departure with a mimosa or orange juice, and toast to the exciting week ahead.
Venture into the Prestige Park car to marvel at the rugged beauty of Eastern Ontario unfolding beyond the windows. Dense forests and pristine lakes provide for endless photography opportunities.
Settle into your luxurious Prestige Class accommodations—a category that redefines train travel through private cabins, panoramic windows and personalized service.
On board, fine dining is a priority. Delight in gourmet meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients served in an elegant dining car.
As you retire for the evening let the rhythmic sound of the rails welcome you to a comfortable night's sleep.
Overnight: The Canadian (B,D)
Day 3: Kamloops | Jasper, Alberta | Edmonton
Saturday, August 9, 2025
Today includes planned but brief stops in Kamloops, Jasper and Edmonton. Friendly reminder that time off the train is contingent on the train's travel schedule. The staff remains dedicated to keeping you informed of excursion options and scheduling.
Navigating through the Canadian Rockies marvel at the scenery along the Fraser River and the incredible obstacles overcome to build a railway here.
One of today's viewing highlights and photography opportunities is Hell's Gate, the most narrow (and very treacherous) part of the Fraser River. An impressive display of power, its narrow cliff walls create a funnel for hundreds of millions of liters of water rushing through every minute—double the volume of Niagara Falls.
While on board perhaps gather for a game of cards in the Prestige Park car or admire the scenery from a comfortable chair in the Skyline car.
Overnight: The Canadian (B,L,D)
Day 4: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan | Winnipeg, Manitoba
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Observe the shift in topography as you glide between the provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Ideally by this point in the journey you have reached a restful feeling of true relaxation—being able to disconnect from devices allowing for more opportunity to connect with each other. Memorable conversations are shared over meals and conviviality abounds in the train's social atmosphere.
Overnight: The Canadian (B,L,D)
Day 5: Hornepayne, Ontario
Monday, August 11, 2025
This morning wake to boundless landscapes as the journey continues to Ontario. Spot for wildlife during breakfast and take advantage of informative discussions led by your Orbridge Travel Director and the on-board staff.
There will be ample time today for introspection, getting lost in a great book or gathering in the Prestige Park car to sample some of Canada's top-tier varietals and freshly made hors d’œuvres.
Overnight: The Canadian (B,L,D)
Day 6: Toronto
Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Today enjoy lunch on board before disembarking in Toronto. Your hotel accommodations are conveniently located across the street from Union Station. The afternoon is yours for city sightseeing or relaxing at the property.
After dinner at leisure rejoin fellow travel companions for a special farewell dessert reception to celebrate this epic cross-country adventure.
Overnight: Fairmont Royal York (B,L,R)
Day 7: Toronto | Depart for U.S.
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Following breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to Toronto Pearson International Airport for flights home.
Guests continuing on the optional post-tour will set out for a city tour of Toronto. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception
Activity Level
Easy
Guests should be comfortable boarding and disembarking trains without assistance, walking and moving between cars while the train is in motion, and navigating steep, narrow stairs to the upper level of the observation car. All hallways are narrow and have handrails, but train travel can be unpredictable and some unexpected movement may occur. Guests who enjoy the relaxed pace of train travel will delight in spending much of the program's time on the railway. At brief train stop locations, ground may be uneven and covered in loose gravel, with no sidewalks.