10 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling on Via Rail's The Canadian

Top Tips for Traveling by Train Across Canada

Know What to Expect on Via Rail's The Canadian

Our list of 10 things you need to know before traveling on Via Rail's The Canadian will help you get the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime train journey, whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time rail passenger in Canada. The Canadian is one of Via Rail's most scenic and iconic routes, connecting Toronto, Ontario and Vancouver, British Columbia. A celebration of slow travel, this 4,466 km (2,775 mile) rail journey takes four days and three nights. Along the way, it showcases the best of Canada's stunning natural beauty, from the majestic Rocky Mountains, to the vast expanse of the Prairies, to the seemingly endless forests of northern Ontario. We've made the transcontinental railway journey in every season, including during the winter, which is a personal favorite. Learned through first-hand experience, our expert tips for what to expect when traveling across Canada by train are a guide to everything you need to know about planning, booking, packing for, and riding Via Rail's The Canadian.

10 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling on Via Rail's The Canadian between Toronto ON and Vancouver BC aboard Via Rail's iconic The Canadian.

The Wintery Views while Traveling on Via Rail's The Canadian. Photo Credit Sean Morton.

Get top tips for traveling across Canada by train on board the Canadian from someone who has made this epic journey in all four seasons.

Summer Travel on Via Rail's The Canadian. Photo Credit Sean Morton.

For they looked in the future
and what did they see
They saw an iron road runnin'
from the sea to the sea."
by Gordon Lightfoot

1. The First Thing of the 10 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling on Via Rail's The Canadian is There are Three Ways to Experience the Journey

The first thing to know when traveling on Via Rail's The Canadian between Toronto, Ontario and Vancouver, British Columbia is that there are three classes to choose from. Furthermore, they vary considerably in cost, with Economy Class being the least expensive and Prestige being the most luxurious. Although there are no bad options, the service level you choose when traveling on Via Rail will greatly shape your experience. Here's how:

Economy Class: Guests in Economy Class travel in spacious seats that recline for comfort and offer plenty of legroom. Unfortunately, meals are not included this fare. However, food can be purchased from the snack bar in the Skyline Car at an additional cost. Passengers have access to two shared washrooms with a toilet and sink (but no shower) in each car, as well as a Skyline Car, with a lounge and entertainment room down below and a glass-domed observation deck above.

Sleeper Plus Class: Travelers in Sleeper Plus Class are offered priority boarding and access to a comfortable waiting lounge with free coffee and snacks prior to getting on the train in Toronto or Vancouver. Passengers in this class stay in private 1-person or 2-person cabins, or in berths. Furthermore, cabins have their own toilet and sink, and all guests have access to two shared washrooms and a shower in each Manor Car. Fortunately, meals are included in the cost of the ticket, and they are served three times a day in the Dining Car. In addition, Sleeper Class passengers also have access to their own Skyline Car, and the Park Car.
Prestige Class: Prestige Class offers everything available to Sleeper Plus Class passengers, but this top-tier experience offers the ultimate luxury, with larger suites that are equipped with private bathrooms and showers, a flat-screen TV for playing a selection of movies, TV programs or music, and a fold-out leather sofa. Prestige Class passengers also enjoy gourmet meals and a bar service (alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages), and reserved seating in the Dining Car, Park Car, and Panorama Dome Car.

The Park Car, also known as the Bullet Car, is the final carriage Via Rail's The Canadian is a favorite with passengers for its panoramic views while crossing Canada.

Panoramic view from the Park Car at the back of Via Rail's The Canadian

Economy, Sleeper Class, and Prestige Class passengers all have access to a Skyline Car with a glass observation dome while crossing Canada on Via Rail's The Canadian.

View from the observation dome in the Skyline Car aboard Via Rail's The Canadian. Credit: Sean Morton

Luxurious Interior of Prestige Class Manor Car

Meals on board Via Rail's The Canadian are served in the elegant dining car with its white tablecloths and fine china.

Meals are served in the elegant Dining Car on white table linen and fine china

The Skyline Cars on board Via Rail's The Canadian is a place where passengers can read, play board games, or chat while watching the scenery slip past.

The Skyline Cars offer a place for passengers to hang out and socialize

Cabin for one on board Via Rail's The Canadian

Lower Berth in Sleeper Class folded down for night

Upper and lower berth in Sleeper Class offer cozy beds at night and comfy benches during the day on board Via Rail's The Canadian.

During the day upper and lower berths convert into cozy benches. Photo credit: Sean Morton

When beds are made up for Sleeper Class passengers on board Via Rail's The Canadian a chocolate is left on the pillow.

Each night a chocolate is left on your pillow when your bed is made up

Passengers in Economy Class on board Via Rail's The Canadian can relax in comfortable seats with lots of leg room.

Economy Class offers spacious seats that recline for comfort. Photo credit: Sean Morton

Traveling in Economy Class on board Via Rail's the Canadian can be a comfortable alternative to traveling by air.

Seats in Economy Class can be turned to accommodate family groups. Photo credit: Sean Morton

2. Dining Experience On Board Via Rail's The Canadian

Another thing to know before traveling on Via Rail's The Canadian is that dining is an integral part of the experience for Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class passengers. Furthermore, for these passengers meals are included in the ticket price. Conveniently, travelers are offered a choice of early or late sittings for lunch and dinner when they board the train, and breakfast is available at a set time. Amazingly, three-course meals are served in the elegant dining car, which features white linen and fine China. Furthermore, the onboard fare is freshly prepared using local ingredients, and often features regional specialties. For example, we had a chance to sample salmon while traveling through the mountains of British Columbia and to taste succulent Canadian-raised beef while enjoying a sunset somewhere in Alberta, Canada. Interestingly, the menu changes daily, and there is always at least one vegetarian option. If given prior notice, the chefs are typically happy to prepare alternatives for passengers with specific food allergies. In our experience, the meals have always been excellent, and represent a highlight of every trip. It is important to note that Economy Class passengers do not have access to the dining room, but can purchase food from the Snack Bar in their Skyline Car.

Waffles with fresh berries, pancakes with syrup, or bacon and eggs were among the breakfast dishes served aboard Via Rail's The Canadian.

Breakfast is the first of three delicious meals served each day on board Via Rail's The Canadian. Photo Credit Sean Morton.

One of my favorite lunches on board Via Rail's The Canadian consisted of couscous and fresh salad.

All meals are prepared from fresh, local ingredients on board Via Rail's The Canadian

Chefs on board Via Rail's The Canadian prepare meals daily, a vegetarian option is always available, and food allergies can usually be accommodated with advance notice.

The menu on board Via Rail's The Canadian changes daily and always includes a vegetarian option.

Lunch and dinner on board Via Rail's The Canadian involve three courses and leave Sleeper Class passengers very full.

Three-course meals, with fresh bread, soup or salad, a main course, and dessert are delicious

For anyone with a sweet tooth, the desserts on board Via Rail's The Canadian are too die for.

Desserts like chocolate mouse cake are hard to resist when crossing Canada by train

The desserts on board Via Rail's The Canadian are delicious and even after a delectable meal they are hard to resist.

For anyone with a sweet tooth, the cheesecake is to die for!

A selection of snacks is available throughout the day

Passengers in Sleeper Class on The Canadian can sample local wines and taste the produce of micro breweries during tastings in the Skyline Car.

Wine or beer tasting in the Skyline Car on board Via Rail's The Canadian

3. What to Pack When Crossing Canada by Train

A big part of knowing what to expect on a cross-Canada train trip is knowing what to pack. Baggage allowances vary on Via Rail depending on the type of ticket you purchase, your route, and whether you are traveling long-distance or not. While I would say that luggage allowances are generous compared to most Canadian airlines, it is still essential to pack smart. So, one of the 10 things you need to know before traveling on Via Rail's The Canadian is: what are the essentials to pack?

Smart Casual with Options for Layering. Canada is a very large country, and no matter what time of year you travel, you will need to dress for a range of weather conditions along the route. Rain is always a possibility on the West Coast, cooler temperatures can be expected in the Rocky Mountains, and the prairies are a landscape of extremes that can include heat, wind, or cold depending on the season. Therefore, the best option is to bring a few items that can be layered as needed. In addition, while there is no dress code on board The Canadian, smart casual is a good option for meals in the dining car. It is also a good idea to bring sleep attire that you don't mind being seen wearing.
Snacks and drinks. In Economy Class the options for food are limited, and all food and drinks must be purchased. There is a tiny kitchen area with hot water and a small microwave in the bar car, so bringing a few food items or snacks is one way to add variety to your meals and reduce costs while onboard. In Sleeper Class there is a table with free coffee, tea, fruit, and packaged pastries or cookies available at all times. Typically, the snack car in Economy Class is not accessible to Sleeper Class or Prestige passengers. Therefore, in the unlikely event you find yourself feeling peckish between meals, and you prefer specific snacks like chips or candy bars, you may want to pack accordingly.
Entertainment. Although The Canadian does offer onboard WIFI, most of the train trip occurs in remote areas where the signal is unavailable. Therefore, downloading some offline entertainment prior to boarding, bringing a book, crossword puzzle, travel board game, journal, or knitting project might be part of your smart packing strategy. If you're looking for some ideas, check out our list of Top 10 Canada Travel Books, or our list of Top Canadian-Themed Board Games.
Bedding and toiletries. In Economy Class no bedding is provided, so bringing a small blanket, sleeping bag, or travel pillow is one way to make your trip more comfortable. In Sleeper Class very comfortable bedding is provided, as is a small toiletry kit with fresh towels, soap, and a small bottle of shampoo for use in the shower. Any additional toiletries you require should be packed.
Medications. Any prescription medications you might need should be packed, as well as travel sizes of any medications you might need along the way (i.e. Tylenol, Gravol, etc.). Opportunities to purchase necessities along the route are typically highly limited, with Jasper, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Hornepayne being the most likely options for resupplying. If you are a heavy smoker, nicotine patches may be something to consider, as smoke breaks along the way are limited and smoking and vaping are prohibited while on board.

4. When is the Best Time to See Canada by Train?

Knowing when is the best time to see Canada by train is next on our list of top tips for railway travel in Canada. The Canadian operates year-round, and the train journey is epic no matter when you choose to travel. As a result, each season offers a distinct experience. Here's what you should know:

Summer (June–August): Summer is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy warmer temperatures, longer days, and lush green landscapes. This is peak season for travel in Canada, and trains are often longer, sometimes including up to 20 carriages.

Fall (September–November): Autumn is perfect for leaf-peeping with vibrant fall colors, especially in Ontario and Manitoba. Traveling in autumn can also be less busy than the height of summer.

Winter (December–February): Traveling across Canada in Winter on Via Rail's The Canadian is the perfect way to avoid the airport crowds and the the icy roads. Although the days are shorter, much of Canada is transformed into a magical winter wonderland during this season.

Spring (March–May): Traveling in spring can be great for avoiding crowds, while still experiencing some early blooms and viewing the bright, fresh colors of spring.

Traveling on board Via Rail's The Canada is a great way to explore Canada in winter. Photo credit: Sean Morton

Crossing Canada by train is a great way to experience the magical winter wonderland and snowy landscapes of the north.

Train Travel is the perfect way to explore Canada's tranquil winter wonderland. Credit Sean Morton

Snowy landscapes are a highlight of crossing Canada in winter aboard Via Rail's The Canadian.

Snowy landscapes are a highlight of train travel during winter in Canada. Credit: Sean Morton

Waterfalls are spectacular in spring. Credit: Sean Morton

Canadian landscapes are vibrant in spring when seen from the train. Photo credit: Sean Morton

Summer is peak season for traveling across Canada on board Via Rail's The Canadian due to warm temperatures, long days, and good weather.

Long days filled with sunshine are part of traveling across Canada by train in summer. Credit: Sean Morton

Romantic sunsets are a highlight of traveling on board Via Rail's The Canadian during an season, but especially summer.

Summer is a great time to experience a romantic sunset on board Via Rail's The Canadian. Credit: Sean Morton

Leaf peeping is a popular activity in autumn and there is no better way to experience Canada's fall colours than on board Via Rail's The Canadian.

Traveling on The Canadian is a great way to see Canada's spectacular fall colours. Credit: Sean Morton

One of my favourite times of year to travel across Canada on board Via Rail's The Canadian is during the autumn when fall colours are at their peak.

Autumn foliage is a highlight of travling across Canada by train in fall.

5. Wi-Fi, Connectivity, and Power Outlets on VIA Rial Train

While The Canadian is equipped with Wi-Fi, connectivity is limited or unavailable during much of the journey. Additionally, while traditional power outlets are located throughout the train, accessibility depends on what class you are traveling in, and your type of accommodations. Economy Class seats have an outlet at each seat. Sleeper Class cabins also all have an outlet, but passengers traveling in berths only have access to a single outlet in the shared washroom, and a second one in the Skyline Car. There are power outlets at each seat in the lower level of the Prestige Class Dome car, but in our experience Sleeper Class passengers only have access to this part of the train during off-peak times, or when Prestige Class isn't too busy. In all cases, if you anticipate using your Smartphone or laptop while on board, it is a good idea to bring a multi-charger that can be used with several devices on one outlet, and one that has a USB slot if needed.

On board Via Rail's The Canadian WiFi is often limited and connectivity patchy, which gives passengers the perfect opportunity to unplug and disconnect.

Connectivity is limited, so it is time to unplug and enjoy a digital detox. Credit: S Morton

6. Stopovers Along the Way

The Canadian serves around 66 communities across the country, but some are flag stops only, and at others the stop is too brief for passengers to disembark. When the train is operating on schedule, the main stopovers are in Jasper, Alberta (2-3 hours) and Winnipeg, Manitoba (2 hours). Prior to the wildfires in 2024, passengers could easily explore the shops, cafes, and Jasper National Park Visitor Center during the stop in Jasper. In Winnipeg, the Via Rail station is located at The Forks, one of Winnipeg's top tourist destinations. This 'meeting place' features a large, historic market filled with local shops and unique restaurants, and a dynamic outdoor space located at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. The park features art exhibits in summer, a winter skating rink and trail of lights in winter, and spectacular views of the modern Canadian Human Right Museum. It is also on our list of Best Hikes in Manitoba.

Other stops along the route where it may be possible to step off the train for some fresh air include Kamloops BC, Edmonton AB, Saskatoon SK, Melville SK, Sioux Lookout ON, Hornepayne ON, and Capreol ON.

Winnipeg is a major stop on The Canadian's schedule. Sean Morton.

Passengers have a chance to disembark and explore The Forks outside the Via Rail's station in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Iconic Via Rail station at The Forks in Winnipeg, Manitoba where The Canadian makes a stop

The Via Rail station inside Jasper National Park is a historic building and well worth exploring for passengers aboard Via Rail's The Canadian.

Via Rail station in Jasper Alberta, another stop on The Canadian's cross-country route. Credit: Sean Morton

Longer stops are made along The Canadian's route in places where the Via Rail crew needs to refuel, restock, or clean the train.

Via Rail's The Canadian is refueled and cleaned in Jasper, AB allowing passengers time to explore the town.

Some stops during The Canadian's trans Canada crossing offer passengers a chance to get some fresh air and stretch their legs, but they are in remote locations.

Via Rail station in Saskatoon SK is in a remote location. Photo Credit: Sean Morton

Melville Saskatchewan is a stop for passengers traveling across Canada on board Via Rail's The Canadian where they can step off and stretch their legs.

Melville, SK offers passengers another chance to get some fresh air while crossing Canada by train.

7. Cost and Booking Tips for Via Rail

In a nutshell, one of our top tips for traveling on board The Canadian is to book early for the best rates, and take advantage of promotions for savings. Fares on The Canadian vary considerably by class, season, and how far in advance you book. Typically, per person fares between Toronto and Vancouver range from around $550 for a one-way Economy Class ticket to over $10,000 for a spot in a Prestige Class suite. In all classes, booking early, and taking advantage of promotions like Discount Tuesdays can bring some decent savings. In addition, if you are already a Via Rail customer, traveling on the Corridor, The Ocean, or any of its other routes, it is a good idea to sign up for a free Via Preference account, which not only lets you collect points, but also gives you access to e-coupons that can translate into some pretty good deals.

8. Embrace Slow Travel, Expect Delays

The next item on our list of things to know before traveling on Via Rail's The Canadian is that if you want a stress-free experience crossing Canada by train, it is best to embrace slow travel. Canada is a very large country, and not only does Via Rail share the railway tracks with hundreds of freight trains, but the CN Rail freight trains have the right-of-way. Freight train breakdowns, derailments, and collisions with vehicles are not uncommon, and floods, landslides, or fires can also cause disruptions or delays. In short, unlike rail travel in Europe, Canada's long-distance passenger trains are frequently delayed, sometimes by half a day or more. Therefore, whether you're traveling to Toronto or Vancouver, leaving at least one full day to explore the city you arrive in before boarding a cruise ship or a flight will not only allow you to explore more of Canada, it will also ensure your train trip is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

Embracing slow travel is a good idea when traveling across Canada by train because delays can be expected along the way.

Via Rail's passenger service shares the tracks with wildlife and freight trains which can cause delays.

Via Rail's passenger service shares the tracks with CN freight trains, which have the right of way and can cause delays in the passenger service.

CN freight trains are constant companions on the tracks when traveling across Canada on Via Rail

While hearing the whistle of oncoming trains and seeing their headlights approach is quite romantic, the freight trains can sometimes cause delays.

Train whistles and the shine of oncoming lights are part traveling across Canada by train.

9. Prepare to be Social when Crossing Canada by Train

Our next top tip for traveling on Via Rail's The Canadian is that the journey not only offers four days of spectacular scenery, it also offers a chance to interact with your fellow passengers. In fact, even if you've booked a private cabin or a luxury suite, unless you are in a party of four, you will find yourself sharing a table while dining with other passengers at mealtimes. Furthermore, in between meals you will likely spend time enjoying the panoramic views in the Skyline dome cars, having a drink in the Park Car, or hanging out in the activities room with your fellow passengers. As such, you'll soon discover that your fellow travelers are an international and highly entertaining bunch of characters, full of interesting insights and memorable stories. Among our favorite characters are Dan from Uranium, who invited us all over for dinner, a young couple from Mongolia who were going home to help their family with yak farming, and a man who made chain mail armor for a living.

10. What to Expect in Terms of Service and Customer Support

The final thing on our list of top things to know before traveling on The Canadian is that Via Rail is well-regarded for its friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive staff. Whether it's room attendants, chefs, or guides, the crew strives to ensure passengers have an enjoyable trip. In the case of issues or special requests (such as dietary preferences), Via Rail's customer service is typically responsive and reasonable. In the case of delays or service disruptions, in our experience, passengers are typically well taken care of by Via Rail. Customer Service does everything it can to get passengers where they need to go, whether that involves booking an airline or bus ticket to the final destination, or re-booking a VIA Rail train connection. Keep in mind that for more complex needs or requests, advance booking and communication are advised.

Traveling across Canada between Toronto and Vancouver on Via Rail's The Canadian is a unique and not to be missed experience.

Traveling aboard Via Rail's The Canadian is an unforgettable experience. Sean Morton

Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling across Canada between Toronto ON and Vancouver BC on Via Rail's iconic The Canadian is an unforgettable journey. Viewing the stunning natural beauty of Canada while relaxing and enjoying the luxury, comfort, and camaraderie of the train is a truly unique experience. We have traveled across Canada by plane, by car, and by walking 14,000 km on the Trans Canada Trail, and the train is by far our favorite way of seeing the country. Our list of 10 things to know before you travel on Via Rail's The Canadian will help you make the most of this epic rail adventure.

If you think we missed something, please let us know in the comments!