Canada
General train travel information for CANADA. Rail travel tours, accommodation, sightseeing.
Brief History
In 1836, talk of building railroads in Canada began, with the goal of improving transportation. In 1853, the first railroad company, the Grand Trunk Railway, was founded and began building transcontinental highways.
A significant moment in the history of passenger railroads in Canada came in 1885 when the Canadian Pacific Railway, a transcontinental railroad, was completed. This ambitious project connected the country from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.
An important period in the history of passenger rail in Canada is the 1950s-1970s, when rail transportation faced strong competition from road and air travel. This led to a reduction in passenger train routes and a decrease in demand for rail services.
In 1978, VIA Rail Canada was created, a national passenger carrier that provides travelers with the ability to travel comfortably across Canada. VIA Rail Canada provided a variety of routes, including long cross-country and regional trains.
In the following years, a new era of tourist trains in Canada has emerged. In 2012, the Rocky Mountaineer, a famous tourist train, was inaugurated, offering travelers exciting routes through the Canadian Rockies and other beautiful parts of the country.
Today, rail passenger transportation in Canada may not be as widespread as air and bus travel, but rail passenger transportation still provides unique opportunities for travelers who want to enjoy panoramic views and unique travel experiences through Canada's beautiful landscapes.
General Information and Statistics
Currently, the main passenger rail operator in Canada is VIA Rail Canada. With over 3,000 employees, VIA Rail carried 5 million passengers in 2019, 1.1 million in 2020, and 1.5 million in 2021.
Canada's rail network has 49992 kilometers of track, of which only 129 kilometers are electrified, which are mostly on European gauge track. VIA Rail serves more than 410 train stations.
What connections to other countries there are.
There are several notable railroad routes from Canada to the United States.
Are trains fast in Canada in general? How much time to cross the country?
In general, trains in Canada do not have high speeds compared to some other countries with developed high-speed rail networks. Canada's huge size, complex geography and relatively low population density make it difficult to implement high-speed rail service throughout the country.
Canada's main passenger train operator, VIA Rail Canada, operates on conventional rail lines, and the average speed of its passenger trains is generally slower than what is considered high-speed rail in other regions. On most routes, train speeds range from 100 to 160 km/h . These speeds are suitable for connections between major cities and popular destinations in Canada.
The train from Toronto to Vancouver takes 4 days 1 hour and from Winnipeg to Churchill 44h 55min.
What railway companies are available?
In Canada, several railway companies operate both freight and passenger train services. The major railway companies in Canada are:
Canadian National Railway (CN): CN is one of the largest railway companies in North America, operating an extensive network of freight and intermodal services across Canada and the United States. While CN focuses primarily on freight transportation, it also operates some passenger train services through VIA Rail Canada.
Canadian Pacific Railway (CP): CP is another major freight railway company in Canada, with a network that spans the country and connects to key locations in the United States. Similar to CN, CP provides passenger train services in partnership with VIA Rail Canada.
VIA Rail Canada: VIA Rail is the national passenger train operator in Canada. It offers a network of passenger services connecting major cities and regions across the country. VIA Rail operates on both CN and CP tracks and provides long-distance and regional train travel options for passengers.
Rocky Mountaineer: While not a traditional railway company, Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury tourist train operator that offers scenic train tours through the Canadian Rockies and other picturesque regions of Western Canada.
What train types are available in Canada
Via Rail Canada: VIA Rail Canada operates the majority of passenger train services in the country. They offer several train types, including:
The Canadian: VIA Rail's flagship train, offering an iconic cross-country journey from Toronto to Vancouver, passing through the Canadian Rockies.
Corridor Services: These are frequent and convenient trains connecting major cities within the Quebec City-Windsor Corridor, such as Montreal, Toronto, and Ottawa.
Regional Services: VIA Rail also provides regional trains connecting smaller towns and cities across different provinces.
Are there high-speed-trains available?
Canada does not have dedicated high-speed trains like some other countries with a developed high-speed rail network.
Most important train stations / hubs.
The main railway hubs in Canada are Union Station (Toronto, Ontario), Central Station (Montreal, Quebec), Pacific Central Station (Vancouver, British Columbia), Jasper Station (Jasper, Alberta), Churchill Station (Churchill, Manitoba), Gare du Palais (Quebec City, Quebec).
Websites to buy train tickets for Canada?
viarail.ca/en, omio.com
Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Canada?
VIA Rail has its own app, but the reviews for it are not very good at the moment.
Possible to buy a ticket at a railway station in Canada?
In addition to buying tickets online, travelers have the option of buying tickets At train stations. If you are going to a small station, be sure to call in advance, some stations do not sell tickets. It is also possible to purchase tickets through a travel agency in Canada or the United States. Or through one of our international travel agents.
Can I buy my ticket by phone?
You can also buy tickets by phone
Call 1 888 VIA-RAIL (1 888 842-7245) or TTY 1 800 268-9503 (for the hearing impaired). The call is free from anywhere in Canada or the United States.
Return the ticket.
To cancel an online reservation, log in to your profile and click on My Bookings, then click Cancel next to the reservation you wish to cancel. The next screen will show you how much will be refunded to your debit or credit card (minus the applicable service charge). Clicking Cancel this trip is the last action required to activate the cancel and refund process. Please note that this will cancel the entire trip (not just part of it). A cancellation confirmation number will then appear on the screen.
Train ticket prices
Viarail offers different types of discounts. Book in advance! It's always a good idea to buy your tickets in advance - you'll have more departure options and a better chance of finding low fares. Every Tuesday, train lovers have the chance to buy discounted tickets using the promo code "Tuesday". A ticket from Toronto to Vancouver will cost about €400.
Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?
Canada has train connections to America. A ticket price from Vanukwera to New York would cost 155 and take 13h 55m.
Where to find timetables.
Find train schedules on https://www.viarail.ca/en/plan/train-schedules
Buying tickets in advance or right before the train.
Book in advance! It's always a good idea to buy your tickets in advance - you'll have more departure options and a better chance of finding low fares.
Types of tickets.
ESCAPE - Exchange Exchangeable with fees of 50% of fare or minimum of $20 (per direction), any difference in fare will also be charged if you have to book a more expensive fare.Non-refundable
ECONOMY Exchangeable with fees of 25% of fare or minimum of $20 (per direction), any difference in fare will also be charged if you have to book a more expensive fare. Refundable with fees of 25% of fare or minimum of $20 (per direction)
ECONOMY PLUS Completely flexible. Exchangeable. No service charge. Any difference in fare will also be charged if you have to book a more expensive fare.Completely flexible. Fully refundable. No service charge
BUSINESS Exchangeable with fees of 25% of fare or minimum of $20 (per direction), any difference in fare will also be charged if you have to book a more expensive fare.Refundable with fees of 25% of fare or minimum of $20 (per direction.
BUSINESS PLUS Completely flexible. Exchangeable. No service charge. Any difference in fare will also be charged if you have to book a more expensive fare.Completely flexible. Fully refundable. No service charge.
Interrail/Eurail Passes in Canada.
Interrail/Eurail passes are not available in Canada.
Saver price.
The most profitable fare is ESCAPE. You get the best price, but you will not be able to return the ticket.
Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?
Buy single tickets, not return tickets. This will give you more flexibility if you need to change your travel plans. It is not cheaper to buy return tickets.
Flexible tickets.
ECONOM PLUS and BUSINESS PLUS tariffs Fully flexible, exchangeable and fully refundable.
Rules of boarding.
Bring a valid ID card issued by a federal, provincial, territorial or foreign government that shows your details, as proof of identity can be made before boarding the train.
Discounts for group travel.
If you organize a trip for 10 or more people, train travel will be twice as enjoyable for you! When traveling in economy class, group members are entitled to a discount off the regular adult fare on most routes.
Group leaders receive one free ticket for each block of 20 tickets purchased for travel in economy class.
To find out if your group is eligible, call 1 888 VIA-RAIL (1 888 842-7245) or simply fill out the form online. One of Via Rails' representatives will contact you shortly.
Age groups and discounts.
Children under 24 months travel for free
Kids aged between 2 and 11 travel at 50% off in Economy class and at 25% off in other classes (not applicable in Business and Prestige classes). A 10% discount is available for seniors 60 years of age and older.
You can also get an additional 10%* with your CAA card.
Age limitations for minors.
Children between 8 and 11 years of age may travel independently, but only under certain conditions:
The child may only travel in economy or business class.
Travel only on direct trains (no connections), unless an adult can meet the child at the transfer point.
The child must depart no earlier than 5:25 a.m. and the train arrival must be before midnight the same day.
An unaccompanied child may not be boarded or disembarked at an unstaffed station.
The child does not have life-threatening food allergies, such as allergies to peanuts or peanut products.
Handicapped passengers.
Special and adapted services may vary from region to region, depending on the equipment of stations and train cars. To ensure that your individual needs are met and your journey is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, please consider the following recommendations:
Book your trip at least 48 hours in advance.
You can purchase tickets by calling us 24 hours a day at 1 888 VIA-RAIL (1 888 842-7245) or TTY 1 800 268-9503 (for the deaf and hard of hearing), or by visiting one of our ticket offices at a station near you;
When booking your trip, let your agent know if you require any special services.
VIA Rail recommends that all customers requiring special services arrive at the departure station early to ensure safe and timely access to the correct platform. Please check our station hours of operation as some stations open 30 minutes prior to scheduled departures.
Seat reservations in Canada trains.
Seat allocation in economy class.
Via Rails does not limit the number of seats on the train. If you are traveling on one of the busiest trains, you will most likely be seated next to another passenger.
Seat allocation
Depending on the type of carriage, the number of seats may vary. If you are planning to travel soon, you will want to know the configuration of the carriages.
How to know your seat number
When you book a seat on a suitable train, a boarding pass with a barcode will be sent to you by e-mail. The carriage number and seat number will be indicated on the boarding pass.
Comfort classes on the trains.
A few years ago, VIA Rail renamed its classes to make it easier to understand the difference between the various classes and to help you make a more informed decision.
The following classes are now available:
Economy Class
Business Class
Tourist Class
Sleeper Plus Class
Prestige Class
Food and drink in Canada trains / train restaurant.
• Ontario and Quebec
Business Class
Meals and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are included in the price of a business class ticket.
For lunch and dinner, Via Rails provides a choice of entrees including bread, an appetizer, dessert, a glass of Canadian wine and hot beverages.
For breakfast, a choice of entrees including fresh fruit and hot beverages are provided.
Economy Class
Offers an on-board menu with inexpensive sandwiches and lunchboxes
• The Canadian
Sleeper Plus Class
In the dining car you can sample a gourmet three-course menu from breakfast to dinner. When purchasing a Business Class ticket, you can order a meal adapted to your dietary restrictions by phone 10 days before departure. specialties prepared by our chefs on board the train for each meal.
Local beers and wines by the glass are available to accompany your meals.
Economy Class
You can choose appetizers, entrees, hot and cold beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, available at affordable prices
• The Ocean
Sleeper Plus Class
When traveling in Sleeper Plus class, meals are included in the ticket price and served in the dining car. The number of portions depends on the departure time:
Breakfast: 06:30-09:00. Not available if departure is at 08:00 or later (local time)
Lunch: 11:00-14:00. Not available if departure is at 12:30 or later (local time). (Exception is for passengers on train #15 departing from Halifax, who will be eligible for lunch)
Dinner: 17:00-19:00 Not eligible if departure occurs at 18:30 or later (local time). (Exception: passengers on train #14 departing from Montreal and St. Lambert who will be entitled to dinner)
Economy Class
The takeaway menu offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals. There is something for everyone, from light and healthy dishes to heartier comfort food. Bar service is also available with a selection of local beers and Canadian wines.
• The Adventure Routes
Economy Class
Montreal-Jonquière
Montreal-Senneterre
Jasper - Prince Rupert
Light meals, snacks, hot drinks, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available throughout the journey
Sudbury to White River
Snacks, hot drinks and water are offered throughout the trip.
Night trains in Canada?
On board The Canadian train, passengers are offered a 2-bed Sleeper class and a 2-bed Sleeper Plus cabin. This two-person sleeping compartment has 1 upper and 1 lower berth, a private bathroom with toilet and sink (in addition to the showers in the coach) and is designed for two travelers.
Important train routes in Canada
TORONTO-MONTREAL / from 5:01 hours / from 91.7 EUR / every 1-2 hours
TORONTO - WINNIPEG / 34:35 hours / from 239.6 EUR / 1 train per day
MONTREAL – SENNETERRE / 13:19 hours / from 99.7 EUR / 1 train per day
WINNIPEG-CHURCHILL/ 44:55 hours / from 1553.6 EUR / 1 train per day
VANCOUVER-TORONTO / 92:29 hours / from 627.1 EUR / 1 train per day
JASPER-PRINCE RUPERT / 32:40 hours / from 157.6 EUR / 1 train per day
International train routes.
There are several notable rail routes from Canada to the United States:
Amtrak Cascades: This train runs between Vancouver, British Columbia and Seattle, Washington in the United States. The train offers a scenic journey through the Pacific Northwest, passing through dense forests and stunning scenery.
Amtrak Adirondack: The Adirondack train connects Montreal (Quebec) and New York City, providing a scenic journey through the beautiful Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York.
Amtrak Maple Leaf: The Maple Leaf route connects Toronto, Ontario, and New York, passing through Niagara Falls, making it popular with tourists who want to see this natural wonder.
Tourist / scenic routes in Canada.
Canada offers several breathtaking tourist and scenic train routes that allow travelers to experience the country's natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Some of the most popular tourist and scenic train routes in Canada include:
1. Rocky Mountaineer: This luxury tourist train offers several routes through the Canadian Rockies in British Columbia and Alberta. The most popular routes include:
• First Passage to the West: This route travels between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Banff or Lake Louise, Alberta, showcasing stunning mountain vistas and iconic landmarks.
• Journey through the Clouds: This route runs between Vancouver and Jasper, Alberta, taking passengers through the scenic Fraser Valley and the majestic Rocky Mountains.
• Rainforest to Gold Rush: This route connects Vancouver to Jasper, highlighting the beautiful Pacific rainforests and the history of the Gold Rush.
2. Agawa Canyon Tour Train: This train departs from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, and takes passengers on a scenic journey through the Agawa Canyon, offering breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and waterfalls.
3. White Pass and Yukon Route: This historic narrow-gauge railroad travels from Skagway, Alaska, to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. The route passes through rugged wilderness and offers a glimpse of the Gold Rush era.
4. The Ocean: Operated by VIA Rail Canada, The Ocean runs between Montreal, Quebec, and Halifax, Nova Scotia. The journey provides passengers with stunning coastal views and a chance to experience the charm of the Maritime provinces.
5. The Canadian: VIA Rail Canada's flagship route, The Canadian, connects Toronto, Ontario, to Vancouver, British Columbia. Passengers can witness the beauty of the Canadian Rockies, prairies, and forests during this epic cross-country journey.
Luggage information.
Passengers are allowed 2 large suitcases for check-in with a maximum weight of 23 kg and maximum dimensions of 158 cm. Luggage weighing more than 32 kg and measuring more than 180 cm is prohibited, except for some large sports equipment (bicycles, canoes, skis, etc.). Additional items are allowed for an additional fee. Battery-powered vehicles and devices are allowed with some restrictions.
Bicycle on the train.
The fee for a non-folding bicycle is $25, plus taxes, in each direction. VIA Rail accepts 1 bicycle per passenger.
Folding bicycles
A folding bicycle should be packed in a bag whose dimensions can be easily determined. Once the bicycle is packed, the dimensions of the bag should be smaller than the accepted dimensions, i.e. 62 linear inches.
Ski or snowboard on the train.
Skis and snowboards.
Skis and snowboards can be brought aboard the train. These items, together with a bag containing boots and bindings, will be considered as one piece of hand luggage.
Luggage lockers on the stations in Canada.
In some stations in the network, a luggage storage service is available, allowing personal belongings to be left in a secured area with lockers and controlled access. Only passengers holding a ticket confirmed for departure on the same day may use this service.( https://www.viarail.ca/en/explore-our-destinations/find-a-train-station).
Lost and Found Items.
You can contact the Lost and Found department at 1 888 VIA-Rail (1 888 842-7245), TTY 1 800 268-9503 (for the hearing impaired). However, if you have lost your checked baggage or forgotten your hand luggage on board, please go to the baggage check-in room or ticket counter immediately upon arrival at the station to inform the staff. They will do their best to help you find your lost items.
VIA is not responsible for items stolen or left on the train or at the station.
Pets on the trains.
Pets are allowed on VIA Rail Canada's corridor trains (Quebec City-Windsor) if they can comfortably fit in a carrier that meets size standards. Small dogs and cats are permitted, and the total weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 10 kg. Passengers must reserve pet transport in advance, and a fee of $50 per direction applies. Pets must stay in their carriers and under control at all times, and specific conditions apply for their transport. Certain breeds, like pit bulls, are not allowed, and pets are prohibited on certain trains and with specific passenger types.
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