Canadian Train Odyssey

Canadian Train Odyssey

Toronto

Toronto Skyline at night

Day 1
Niagara Falls

Enjoy a Niagara Falls cruise

Day 2
Montreal

Aerial view of Montreal Biosphere

Day 4
Jasper National Park

Amazing views in Jasper National Park

Day 6-7
Banff

Incredible scenery in Banff National Park

Day 8-10
Victoria

Aerial view of Victoria

Day 11-12
Vancouver

Aerial view of downtown Vancouver

Day 13-15
Lake Louise

Lake Louise

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

VIA Rail Observation Car

VIA Rail Observation Car

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park

Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park

Map
79K Views
15 Days From

$5375

$5050

Tour Overview

Embark on the Canadian Train Odyssey, a breathtaking journey through the heart of Canada. Experience the charm of refurbished art deco rail cars and domed observation cars as you traverse the stunning landscapes from Toronto to Vancouver. Marvel at the majestic Niagara Falls, explore the serene beauty of Jasper and Banff National Parks, and witness the turquoise waters of Lake Louise. Travel through the historic Yoho and Glacier National Parks, and enjoy the vibrant cities of Toronto and Vancouver. This tour offers a unique blend of nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences, with comfortable accommodations and chef-prepared meals on board VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, The Canadian. Whether you're cruising past waterfalls or hiking through alpine meadows, this adventure promises unforgettable memories. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Marvel at hypnotic Niagara Falls on your boat cruise past the falls.

  • Stop in breathtaking Lake Louise where cold waters mirror the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

  • Spend time in stunning Jasper National Park with its rugged mountains, glaciers, alpine meadows, rivers, and abundant wildlife.

  • Travel through Yoho National Park with its famous fossils and Glacier National Park with its abundant wildlife.

  • Enjoy views of the ever-changing landscapes from refurbished art deco rail cars and domed observation cars.

  • Experience the Ice Explorer on the Columbia Icefield, traveling on ice measuring 750 feet thick.

  • Explore the vibrant cities of Toronto and Vancouver.

Places You'll See

Jasper, Canada

Jasper, Canada

Vancouver Island Daniel Vogel

Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island EY

Vancouver Island

Aerial view of Vancouver downtown Coal Harbour

Aerial view of Vancouver downtown Coal Harbour

Lake Louise

Lake Louise

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

VIA Rail Observation Car

VIA Rail Observation Car

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park

Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Toronto

Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto

Location: Toronto, Eaton Centre, Toronto, Hockey Hall of Fame, Toronto, St. Lawrence Market, Toronto

Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto

Welcome to Toronto! Your Tour Director is on hand from 3pm-6pm to answer any questions.Toronto is considered the most culturally diverse city in the world with its population representing a wide range of ethnicities and languages. Once checked into your hotel, perhaps do some shopping at nearby Eaton Centre or venture a little further and check out the Hockey Hall of Fame or try some local culinary treats at St. Lawrence Market, a city landmark over two centuries old. ...more ...less

Day 2: Toronto. Excursion To Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls
Niagara waterfalls
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Canadian side view of Niagara Falls
Toronto
Niagara waterfalls
Canadian side view of Niagara Falls
Toronto

Location: Toronto, Niagara Falls

Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto

Begin the day with an orientation tour of Toronto that includes City Hall, the downtown banking district, Rogers Centre, and the stunning CN Tower. Leave the city and travel along the shores of Lake Ontario to Niagara Falls. Sightseeing here includes a Niagara Falls cruise for an exhilarating ride to see the thundering Falls up close. Fall even more in love with the falls with an optional excursion to Skylon Tower for spectacular views and a buffet lunch. Return to Toronto and spend the evening exploring the city sights on your own.NOTE:Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. Favorable conditions usually exist from May to October. When conditions are unfavorable, a visit to Journey Behind the Falls will be substituted.

Day 3: Toronto,Via Rail The Canadian

Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto

Location: Toronto

Accommodation Name: On board The Canadian

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

This morning, transfer to Union Station for a departure on The Canadian, VIA Rail’s premier transcontinental train. Spend the next three days and nights on this classic trip across Canada’s heartland. Your Sleeper-Plus class rail cars are refurbished art-deco cars from the 1950s. Domed observation cars let you enjoy views of the Canadian countryside as you roll past Ontario’s landscapes. Chef-prepared meals offer a tempting array of soups, salads, main courses, and desserts.

Day 4: Via Rail The Canadian

Montreal, Canada
View over the skyline of the city of Montreal
View over the skyline of the city of Montreal
Montreal Olympic stadium
Montreal Olympic stadium
Historic Montreal City Hall
Historic Montreal City Hall

Location: Montreal

Accommodation Name: On board The Canadian

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, watch the scenery as you whisk by the ever-changing Canadian landscape and travel the full length of the Canadian National Railway’s breathtaking mainline.

Day 5: Via Rail The Canadian

Winnipeg, Canada
Winnipeg skyline at night

Location: Winnipeg, Saskatchewan

Accommodation Name: On board The Canadian

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The Canadian glides through Winnipeg, before continuing the journey through Manitoba’s prairies and into Saskatchewan.

Day 6: Via Rail The Canadian,Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park
Jasper, Canada
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park
Jasper, Canada
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park

Location: Jasper National Park, Jasper

Accommodation Name: Tonquin Inn or Lobstick Lodge

Arrive in Jasper this morning and enjoy an orientation tour of the townsite. The remainder of your day is free to enjoy the ambiance of this wonderous mountain setting. Go with the flow on an optional scenic float trip on the Athabasca River.

Day 7: Jasper National Park

Jasper, Canada
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park
Jasper, Canada
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park

Location: Jasper National Park, Maligne Lake, Maligne Canyon, Jasper

Accommodation Name: Tonquin Inn or Lobstick Lodge

Today is at leisure. Make your day magical with an optional narrated cruise on Maligne Lake to the much-photographed Spirit Island*. On the return journey, stop to view mighty Maligne Canyon. This afternoon, perhaps hike on the trails and watch for wildlife, or stroll the streets of Jasper. *This optional excursion begins operating in late May/early June.

Day 8: Jasper National Park,Columbia Icefield,Lake Louise,Banff National Park

Jasper National Park
Banff National Park
Jasper National Park
Banff National Park
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Columbia Icefields Skywalk Valley
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Jasper National Park
Banff National Park
Athabasca Glacier
Banff National Park
Jasper National Park
Banff National Park
Lake Louise
Glacier Skywalk
Jasper National Park
Banff National Park
Jasper National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Jasper National Park
Banff National Park
Jasper National Park

Location: Jasper National Park, Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise, Banff National Park

Accommodation Name: Rundlestone Lodge or Irwin's Mountain Inn

Board your motorcoach this morning and journey through Jasper National Park, stopping along the way at the Columbia Icefield to experience the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 750 feet (250 meters) thick! Continue down Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise, known for its stunning turquoise waters that mirror the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Arrive in Banff National Park for a leisurely 2-night stay. An orientation tour highlights Banff’s unspoiled beauty.

Day 9: Banff National Park

Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park

Location: Banff National Park

Accommodation Name: Rundlestone Lodge or Irwin's Mountain Inn

The day is free to independently explore. Perhaps stroll Banff Avenue, the main thoroughfare with boutiques and souvenir shops in this resort town or hike in some of the surrounding 2,564 square miles of parkland which are home to wildlife, including elk, deer, and grizzly bear. Take your day higher with an awe-inspiring optional helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies! Your Tour Director can offer many suggestions for activities and dinner.

Day 10: Banff National Park,Yoho National Park,Glacier National Park,Kamloops

Yoho National Park
Yoho National Park
Kamloops
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Kamloops
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Glacier National Park
Yoho National Park
Yoho National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park
Banff National Park

Location: Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Glacier National Park, Kamloops

Accommodation Name: Best Western Premier Kamloops

This morning, leave Banff National Park and travel over Kicking Horse Pass on the Continental Divide. Travel through Yoho National Park, where pre-Cambrian fossils were discovered, and Glacier National Park, where recreational mountain climbing was introduced to North America a century ago. Late this afternoon, arrive at the cattle-ranching center of Kamloops.

Day 11: Kamloops,Ferry Crossing,Victoria

EY Vancouver Island
Daniel Vogel Vancouver Island
Victoria, Canada
Victoria, Canada
Kamloops
Daniel Vogel Vancouver Island
EY Vancouver Island
Victoria, Canada
Kamloops
Victoria, Canada

Location: Kamloops, Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens, Victoria

Accommodation Name: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites

As you travel through the Coast Mountain Range to its majestic Pacific coastline, the vegetation changes from desert landscape to lush alpine forest. Board your afternoon ferry for the spectacular crossing to Vancouver Island. Upon arrival, take time to smell the roses on an optional excursion to see the 55-acres of incredible floral displays at world famous Butchart Gardens. Later, enjoy sightseeing in Victoria including the Inner Harbour, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park. This evening, consider taking a relaxing stroll along the lovely Waterfront Promenade.

Day 12: Victoria

Victoria, Canada
Victoria, Canada
Victoria, Canada
Victoria, Canada

Location: Victoria, Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Building, Empress Hotel, Government Street

Accommodation Name: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites

Enjoy a day at leisure with time to discover some of the attractions this splendid city has to offer. Visit the Royal British Columbia Museum, tour the Parliament Building, have Afternoon Tea at the Empress Hotel, or shop along Government Street. Perhaps have an adventure at sea on an optional whale and wildlife watching cruise.

Day 13: Victoria,Ferry Crossing,Vancouver

Vancouver, Canada
Aerial view of Vancouver downtown Coal Harbour
Victoria, Canada
Aerial view of Vancouver downtown Coal Harbour
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Victoria, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Victoria, Canada
Victoria, Canada

Location: Victoria, Vancouver, Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown

Accommodation Name: Sandman Suites on Davie

This morning, set sail across the Strait of Georgia and through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an archipelago known for its Mediterranean-like climate. In Vancouver, city sightseeing includes Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, and many other famous landmarks. The remainder of the day is free to explore Robson Street and experience British Columbia’s premier shopping and entertainment location.

Day 14: Vancouver

Aerial view of Vancouver downtown Coal Harbour
Aerial view of Vancouver downtown Coal Harbour
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Skiing in Whistler mountain resort
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Whistler Village in Summer
A beautiful view of Lost Lake in Whistler
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada

Location: Vancouver, Sea to Sky Highway, Whistler, Grouse Mountain, Capilano Suspension Bridge

Accommodation Name: Sandman Suites on Davie

Today is at leisure for independent sightseeing or join us for unforgettable optional excursions, featuring one of the world’s most scenic drives along the Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler or elevate your adventure on an optional aerial tram ride up the mountain for exquisite views and a walk through a rainforest canopy at Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Day 15: Vancouver

Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Aerial view of Vancouver downtown Coal Harbour
Aerial view of Vancouver downtown Coal Harbour

Location: Vancouver

Your vacation ends this morning.

What's Included

  • Accommodations

    Stay in comfort at selected hotels including Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto, Marmot Lodge, Lobstick Lodge, Rundlestone Lodge, Best Western Premier Kamloops, Royal Scot Hotel & Suites, and Sandman Suites on Davie.

  • Sightseeing Highlights

    Enjoy the breathtaking views of Canada's landscapes from refurbished art deco rail cars and domed observation cars, marvel at Niagara Falls, explore the stunning Jasper National Park, travel through Yoho and Glacier National Parks, and experience the vibrant cities of Toronto and Vancouver.

  • Transportation

    Travel aboard VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, The Canadian, for a classic trip across Canada's heartland. Experience the Ice Explorer on the Columbia Icefield and enjoy ferry crossings to Vancouver Island.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites

    Visit stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Yoho National Park.

What's Not Included

  • Airfare

    International and domestic airfare not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is recommended but not included.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours and activities not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Items of a personal nature, including souvenirs, laundry, and telephone calls, are not included.

  • Meals not mentioned

    Any meals not listed in the inclusions are not covered.

Meals

2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Notes

Early departures may not be able to visit Columbia Icefield, which opens in early May, or take the Maligne Lake & Spirit Island optional excursion, which opens in mid to late May. Visiting and participating in other activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions and vendor dates of operation.

Furnishings in your VIA Rail train cabin are arranged in armchair style by day. By night, beds are configured to upper and lower bunkbed-style arrangement requiring one guest be able to climb a ladder to the upper bed.

Maximum elevation on tour: 7,500 ft.
...more ...less

UNESCO Sites

Banff National Park|Jasper National Park|Yoho National Park

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at selected hotels including Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto, Tonquin Inn, Lobstick Lodge, Rundlestone Lodge, Irwin's Mountain Inn, The Thompson Hotel & Conference Centre, Royal Scot Hotel & Suites, and Sandman Suites on Davie.

Mode of Transport

Travel aboard VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, The Canadian, for a classic trip across Canada's heartland. Experience the Ice Explorer on the Columbia Icefield and enjoy ferry crossings to Vancouver Island.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of train accommodations are provided on the Canadian Train Odyssey?

    The tour includes travel aboard VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, The Canadian, in Sleeper-Plus class rail cars, which are refurbished art-deco cars from the 1950s. The train features domed observation cars for scenic views and chef-prepared meals.

  • What activities are available at Jasper National Park during the tour?

    In Jasper National Park, you can enjoy an orientation tour of the townsite, and have free time to explore the area. Optional activities include a scenic float trip on the Athabasca River and a narrated cruise on Maligne Lake to Spirit Island.

  • What is the Ice Explorer experience at the Columbia Icefield?

    The Ice Explorer is an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 750 feet thick at the Columbia Icefield. This experience is part of the journey through Jasper National Park to Lake Louise.

  • What are some optional excursions available in Victoria?

    In Victoria, optional excursions include visiting the Butchart Gardens to see its floral displays and a whale and wildlife watching cruise.

  • What can I expect during the ferry crossing to Vancouver Island?

    The ferry crossing to Vancouver Island offers spectacular views as you travel through the Coast Mountain Range to the Pacific coastline, transitioning from desert landscape to lush alpine forest.

  • What are some highlights of the city sightseeing in Vancouver?

    City sightseeing in Vancouver includes visits to Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, and other famous landmarks. You will also have free time to explore Robson Street, known for shopping and entertainment.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1961

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.

Reviews of this operator

Mrs Susan Hyland  

We have just returned from a Cosmos…

28-Sep-2022

We have just returned from a Cosmos tour- Gourmet Tuscany. We stayed in Montecatini Terme and traveled from there to many wonderful places, in towns and the fabulous Tuscan countryside. We visit Vineyards for wine tastings, farms for cooking lessons and lunches and dinners in authentic Italian restaurants. All assisted by a friendly, informative tour director. First class holiday ...more ...less

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Rick  

Excellent in every respect

08-Dec-2022

I recently did a 2-week "best of Italy" tour with this company. Our guide, Daniella, was fantastic, the itinerary was excellent and they catered for my rather difficult dietary requirements really well. Really happy and will certainly book with them again ...more ...less

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John Lomanno  

A wonderrful experience

09-Nov-2022

WE saw so much. The tour director Mladin was very knowledgeable and made the experience so enjoyable. The bus driver Paul was so nice and helpful. A couple of the hotels had no refrigerators to keep the water cold. We had to carry our own luggage to and from the rooms. There should have been porters to help us. Over all we had a great time. ...more ...less

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Bruce  

Old South &Florida tour

27-Oct-2022

Great organisation, tour guide(Kris) and driver(Tony) who went extra mile and good group of people from all over world. The hotels were excellent in New Orleans and Nashville and very good in other cities. The itinerary was well thought out with visits to Gracelands and Grande ole Oprey topping the bill. We added 3extra nights in New Orleans (giving us 6nights) which was absolutely fab and would advise anyone doing this tour that they consider some extra nights to see and do as much as you can ...more ...less

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Francine Ramos  

The tour director expertise and…

18-Dec-2022

The tour director expertise and personality made the trip all the more pleasant. No stress. The local guides as well added to the beauty of this trip. They were knowledgeable and personable. I also have to mention the travelers (the group of 21). The people were friendly an accommodating. This is my third trip with this tour company and I will continue to travel with this company due to excellent planning and customer service. Thank you ...more ...less

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1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Friday

May 09, 2025 - May 23, 2025
$5375 $5050 (USD)

Barrhead discount: -$325 (USD)

Friday - Friday

May 30, 2025 - Jun 13, 2025
$5450 $5126 (USD)

Barrhead discount: -$325 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Canadian Train Odyssey

15 Days Starting in Toronto, Canada and ending in Vancouver, Canada

Visiting: Toronto, Eaton Centre, Toronto, Hockey Hall of Fame, Toronto, St. Lawrence Market, Toronto, Niagara Falls, Montreal, Winnipeg, Saskatchewan, Jasper National Park, Jasper, Maligne Lake, Maligne Canyon, Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Glacier National Park, Kamloops, Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens, Victoria, Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Building, Empress Hotel, Government Street, Vancouver, Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, Sea to Sky Highway, Whistler, Grouse Mountain, Capilano Suspension Bridge ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Cosmos

Tour code:

8960-2025

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

High

Special diets catered:

Please Advise Request

Tour operated in:

English
From: $5375 $5050 (USD) Barrhead discount: -$325

NB: Prices correct on 18-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

Why book with Barrhead?

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