The Canadian is VIA Rail’s flagship train, offering an epic journey from Toronto to Vancouver (or vice versa) that traverses some of Canada’s most iconic landscapes. The route passes through the northern Ontario lakelands, the vast Saskatchewan prairies, the dramatic Canadian Rockies, and the river valleys of interior British Columbia. The entire journey takes five days and is best suited for dedicated train enthusiasts—while some sections offer breathtaking scenery, others see little change, and there are faster ways to cross these immense distances.
For those who prefer a shorter and equally scenic experience, the section between Jasper and Vancouver is a fantastic way to enjoy VIA Rail’s excellent service. This leg of the journey, taking around 20 hours, offers an incredible alternative to the Rocky Mountaineer, showcasing diverse and spectacular landscapes as you travel from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Coast.
Sleeper Class provides travellers with a private cabin featuring comfortable seating during the day that converts into upper and lower berth beds overnight. Each cabin includes a washroom and toilet, while shared shower facilities are available in each sleeper carriage. Travellers in Sleeper Class also enjoy access to the Park and Skyline carriages, which feature a glass-domed roof for stunning panoramic views. All freshly prepared meals are included, offering a truly relaxing and comfortable way to travel. For families, larger cabins accommodating up to four passengers are available.
