Eastern Canada by Rail

Toronto

Welcome to Canada! Your adventure begins in Toronto – the capital of Ontario along the lake's northwestern shore. With soaring skyscrapers, this metropolis is known for the free-standing CN Tower, its green spaces and its sports culture. You'll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight at your hotel to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. After, maybe head out for dinner with your group and get to know each other.

Niagara Falls / Toronto

Today you'll take a day trip to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. Part of the UNESCO-listed Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve, the falls are also one of the honorary Natural Wonders of the World. You'll take an orientation tour with your leader, then have free time to take on one of the optional cruises. This afternoon, head to a wine tasting in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Later, return to Toronto for the night.

Toronto / Gananoque

This morning, head out for an orientation walk of Toronto with your local leader. Then, hop on the train to the small town of Gananoque – home to the Thousand Islands, known as the 'Garden of the Great Spirit' by the Iroquois Nation. On arrival you have a free afternoon to relax or explore – maybe visit the 1000 Islands History Museum or head to a theatre show at the Thousand Islands Playhouse. Travel time approximately 3 hours.

Thousand Islands / Ottawa

Set out on a cruise through the Thousand Islands this morning and learn about this area's history, wars and rebellions. See 5th and 6th-generation family cottages as you cruise through the narrow channels to the Admiralty and Navy groups of islands. This afternoon, transfer by taxi to Brockville station and take the train to Ottawa, Canada's capital. Travel time approximately 2 hours.

Meals: Breakfast

Ottawa

Set out on an e-bike tour of Ottawa. Spend half the day exploring downtown, both on foot and by electric bike. Visit Gatineau Park – the largest green space in the region, occupying over 362 sq km, home to bats, frogs, raccoons, squirrels and even black bears. After, you have a free afternoon to relax or visit one of the city's 29 museums. Cycling time approximately 4 hours.

Quebec City

Today you'll take a train to Quebec City – the largest province in Canada known for its French-speakers, European architecture, narrow streets and the Saint Lawrence River. This is a long travel day (approximately 6 hours), so soak up the views along the way. When you arrive, you're free to explore the city at your own pace.

Ile d'Orleans / Jacques Cartier National Park / Quebec City

This morning you'll take a private vehicle to Ile d'Orleans for a daytrip – this island and heritage site in the Saint Lawrence River was one of the first places in the province to be colonised by the French. Explore with your leader, then head to a local spot for classic poutine. Then head to the gorgeous Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier for a hike through the Vallee de la Jacques-Cartier glacial valley. Look out for moose and beavers.

Quebec City

Head out on a walking tour of Quebec City with a local guide. Visit BeaverTails for a delicious local pastry, then hop on The Old Quebec Funicular – a historic railway connecting the Upper and Lower Town, offering views across the city. The main entrance is the House Louis Jolliet, built in 1683. This afternoon is free to explore the charming city.

Meals: Lunch

Montreal

Take the train to Montreal – the largest city in the province of Quebec, named after Mt. Royal, the triple-peaked hill at its centre. Travel time approximately 3.5 hours. When you arrive, take the subway to your hotel before heading out for an orientation walk. Tonight, maybe join your group for dinner and toast to an excellent Canadian exploration.

Montreal

With no further activities planned after breakfast today, your trip comes to an end and you're free to leave at any time after check-out.