Marvellous Escapes · Tailor-made rail holiday

Great Canadian Rail Odyssey

Great Canadian Rail Odyssey, a rail journey with Marvellous Escapes

Experience Canada from coast to coast on this unforgettable 18-day rail adventure, beginning in Halifax and ending in the vibrant city of Vancouver.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: Halifax

    Halifax

    Your journey begins with a flight from the UK to Halifax, the charming gateway to Atlantic Canada. Upon arrival, head to your hotel and settle in for a relaxing evening, perhaps a stroll along Halifax’s scenic waterfront.

  2. Day 2overnight: Halifax

    Halifax

    Today, immerse yourself in the best of Halifax on a guided tour that highlights the city’s historic landmarks and coastal charm, including the iconic Peggy’s Cove and its famous lighthouse.

  3. Day 3railovernight: onboard VIA Rail

    The Ocean: Halifax to Quebec

    Board your VIA Rail train bound for Quebec City. As the journey heads north and west through the scenic Canadian Maritimes, you’ll enjoy captivating views of the rugged coastlines and forested landscapes.

  4. Day 4overnight: Quebec City

    Quebec

    Today, you will arrive in Quebec City, giving you a full day to immerse yourself in this captivating destination, from its centuries-old defensive walls to the charming Old Port district. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a traditional Quebecois restaurant.

  5. Day 5railovernight: Montreal

    Quebec to Montreal

    Today, board VIA Rail's 'The Ocean' for a scenic journey from Quebec City to Montreal, watching charming villages, lush forests and rivers pass by your window. This evening you’re free to explore Montreal’s culinary scene.

  6. Day 6overnight: Montreal

    Montreal

    Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Montreal on this fully-guided tour, visiting the Notre-Dame Basilica, historic Old Montreal, McGill University and panoramic views from Mount Royal.

  7. Day 7railovernight: Toronto

    Montreal to Toronto

    This morning, you’ll board VIA Rail for your journey from Montreal to Toronto, enjoying the scenic views of the Canadian countryside and a meal onboard, arriving in Toronto in the afternoon.

  8. Day 8overnight: Toronto

    Toronto

    Today you’ll enjoy a full-day tour to Niagara Falls, passing through Hamilton and St. Catharines and the Niagara Peninsula wine region, with a scenic drive along the Niagara Parkway and Niagara-on-the-Lake.

  9. Day 9railovernight: onboard VIA Rail

    The Canadian: Toronto to Jasper

    Embark on a remarkable journey aboard VIA Rail's renowned 'The Canadian' sleeper train as you travel from Toronto to Jasper, a scenic 3-day ride through rolling hills, lush forests and tranquil lakes, with meals served in the dining car.

  10. Day 10railovernight: onboard VIA Rail

    The Canadian: Toronto to Jasper

    Embark on a remarkable journey aboard VIA Rail's renowned 'The Canadian' sleeper train as you travel from Toronto to Jasper, a scenic 3-day ride through rolling hills, lush forests and tranquil lakes, with meals served in the dining car.

  11. Day 11railovernight: onboard VIA Rail

    The Canadian: Toronto to Jasper

    Embark on a remarkable journey aboard VIA Rail's renowned 'The Canadian' sleeper train as you travel from Toronto to Jasper, a scenic 3-day ride through rolling hills, lush forests and tranquil lakes, with meals served in the dining car.

  12. Day 12overnight: Jasper

    The Canadian: Toronto to Jasper (arrival in Jasper)

  13. Day 13overnight: Banff

    Banff

    Travel from Jasper to Banff today for an exploration of the Rockies with a breathtaking Icefields Parkway and Rockies Discovery Tour, including the Glacier Skywalk suspended 918ft above the Sunwapta Valley, and lunch at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre.

  14. Day 14railovernight: Jasper

    Jasper

    Today, you’ll enjoy a scenic transfer from Banff back to Jasper, winding through the majestic mountains, with time to rest and unwind ahead of your onward train journey.

  15. Day 15railovernight: onboard VIA Rail

    The Canadian: Jasper to Vancouver

    This morning, you'll board VIA Rail's Canadian for the next leg of your adventure through the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, past Moose Lake and the towering peaks of Mt. Robson, with panoramic 360-degree views from the dome car.

  16. Day 16overnight: Vancouver

    Vancouver

  17. Day 17overnight: Vancouver

    Vancouver

    Today, continue your exploration of Vancouver, from Granville Island's shops and artisans to Chinatown's cuisine and the historic streets of Gastown.

  18. Day 18

    Return home

    Check out of your hotel today and take a private transfer to Vancouver Airport for your overnight flight back to the UK. Alternatively, extend your stay to explore more of Canada.

Included

  • 2-nights hotel accommodation in Halifax, Montreal, Toronto, Jasper and Vancouver
  • Overnight hotel accommodation in Quebec & Banff
  • 5-nights accommodation aboard VIA Rail with meals included
  • Flights from UK to Halifax and return from Vancouver
  • VIA Rail The Ocean and The Canadian
  • Best of Halifax tour with Peggy's Cove
  • Quebec guided cruise
  • Heart of Montreal tour
  • Icefields Parkway and Rockies Discovery Tour from Jasper to Banff
  • 48-hour Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour pass in Vancouver

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