Overview
Great Canadian Rail Journey
All aboard for an epic rail journey across captivating Canada. Settle into your first-class, art deco train car aboard VIA Rail’s The Canadian to cruise and snooze your way through five picturesque provinces. Your epic adventure across Canada begins with two overnights in Toronto, featuring a visit to magnificent Niagara Falls. Then, you’ll board your premier transcontinental train to glide past picturesque panoramas, including the sparkling lakes of Ontario, the golden prairies of Manitoba, the winding rivers of Saskatchewan, and the sun-dappled forests of Alberta. Disembark your train to continue by coach to explore the extraordinary national parks of the Canadian Rockies, including Jasper, Banff, Yoho, and Glacier National Park. Explore historic Kamloops before continuing west for ferry crossings between the very British city of Victoria and cosmopolitan Vancouver. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Victoria so you can plan your day your way.
Embark on VIA Rail's The Canadian for an extraordinary rail journey across the world's second-largest country. Begin with two nights in Toronto and an excursion to magnificent Niagara Falls before settling into the comfort of your Sleeper Plus accommodations for an unforgettable transcontinental adventure.As the train travels westward, watch Canada's diverse landscapes unfold—from Ontario's sparkling lakes and forests to the vast prairies of Manitoba and Alberta, and onward to the dramatic mountain scenery of Alberta. Along the way, enjoy regional cuisine, exclusive lounge access, and the unique experience of crossing the country aboard one of North America's most celebrated rail journeys.Continue into the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, where you'll discover the natural wonders of Jasper, Banff, Yoho, and Glacier National Parks. Cruise across Maligne Lake to iconic Spirit Island, venture onto the Athabasca Glacier aboard a specially designed Ice Explorer and travel the spectacular Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise. Your journey also includes time in historic Victoria and vibrant Vancouver, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Canada's west coast.With expertly planned sightseeing, iconic rail travel, and included Globus Choice excursions in Victoria, this journey offers an immersive way to experience Canada's remarkable landscapes, cultures, and natural wonders.
Highlights of Great Canadian Rail Journey
Related Tours
CZ|Great Canadian Rail JourneyCZI|With Alaska Cruise
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select North America dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
Travelers Notes
Special features included in this tour:• Guided sightseeing in Toronto with Niagara Falls cruise• Train travel aboard VIA Rail Canadian train, featuring private Sleeper Plus premium service with regional cuisine and exclusive access to stylish lounges and performances by local musicians• Maligne Lake cruise to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park • Columbia Ice Explorer ride across Athabasca Glacier at Columbia Icefield • Scenic drive along Icefields Parkway and visit to Lake Louise with heritage walk• Guided sightseeing in Banff National Park, including Bow Falls• Scenic drive through Yoho and Glacier National Parks with photo stops • Visit to local dairy in Sicamous for sweet treat Guided sightseeing in Victoria with visit to [LF] Butchart Gardens • Globus Choice excursions in Victoria – included in your tour with your choice of a visit to the Royal BC Museum and Thunderbird Park or discover the Malahat SkyWalk and TreeWalk • Guided sightseeing in Vancouver, including Stanley Park
Related Option Title
Great Canadian Rail Journey
Notes
• Visiting and participating in activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions.• Maximum elevation on tour is 7,500 ft (2,286 m).• Due to the frequent use of this railroad for other services, delays may occur during the journey.• One guest will be required to climb a ladder to reach the upper berth in a double cabin.• Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. Favorable conditions usually exist from May to mid-October. When weather is unfavorable, a walking tour through the scenic tunnels will be substituted. • Train travel included on VIA Rail Canadian train, featuring private Sleeper Plus premium service with regional cuisine and exclusive access to stylish lounges and performances by local musicians.
Product Group
Great Canadian Rail Journey
UNESCO Sites
Banff National Park|Jasper National Park|Yoho National Park
Related Tours
CZ|Great Canadian Rail JourneyCZI|With Alaska Cruise
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select North America dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
Travelers Notes
Special features included in this tour:• Discover Toronto's iconic landmarks on guided sightseeing and experience the power of Niagara Falls on an exhilarating sightseeing cruise• Travel aboard VIA Rail's legendary Canadian in Sleeper Plus Class, featuring private accommodations, regional cuisine and exclusive lounge access• Cruise the turquoise waters of Maligne Lake to Spirit Island, one of the most photographed landmarks in the Canadian Rockies• Venture onto the ancient Athabasca Glacier aboard a specially designed Columbia Ice Explorer at the Columbia Icefield• Travel the spectacular Icefields Parkway and visit iconic Lake Louise, including a heritage walk along its stunning shoreline• Explore Banff National Park on guided sightseeing featuring Bow Falls and the breathtaking scenery of the Canadian Rockies• Journey through Yoho and Glacier National Parks with scenic drives and photo stops showcasing mountain peaks, waterfalls, and alpine landscapes• Visit a local dairy in Sicamous and enjoy a sweet treat while experiencing a taste of British Columbia's agricultural heritage• Discover Victoria's elegant gardens and historic charm, including a visit to the spectacular [LF] Butchart Gardens• Personalize your experience with a Globus Choice excursion in Victoria: choose a visit to the Royal BC Museum and Thunderbird Park or a historic walking tour of Victoria• Explore Vancouver with a Local Guide, including Stanley Park's scenic waterfront vistas and renowned totem poles
Related Option Title
Great Canadian Rail Journey
Notes
Visiting and participating in activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions.Maximum elevation on tour is 7,500 ft (2,286 m).Due to the frequent use of this railroad for other services, delays may occur during the journey.One guest will be required to climb a ladder to reach the upper berth in a double cabin.Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. Favorable conditions usually exist from May to mid-October. When the weather is unfavorable, a walking tour through the scenic tunnels will be substituted.
Product Group
Great Canadian Rail Journey
UNESCO Sites
Banff National Park|Jasper National Park|Yoho National Park
Meals
Breakfast daily, 5 Lunches, 6 Dinners
Meals
Breakfast daily, 5 Lunches, 6 Dinners
Itineraries
Day 1
ARRIVE IN TORONTO, ONTARIO Welcome to Toronto! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.
Day 2
TORONTO. EXCURSION TO NIAGARA FALLS Taking the Plunge Drive along the shores of Lake Ontario to Niagara Falls. Take a Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise for a thrilling boat ride to view the thundering falls from river level. Enjoy lunch in Niagara Falls then return to Toronto for an orientation tour and evening at leisure. (B,L) TOUR HIGHLIGHT NATURAL WONDERS The famous natural wonder of Niagara Falls consists of three massive waterfalls – American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls – plummeting from the southern end of Niagara Gorge. Spanning the border between Canada’s Ontario and America’s New York State, the largest of the falls is Horseshoe Falls–also known as the Canadian Falls –which straddles the border of both countries. Take a thrilling sightseeing cruise on the waters below the thunderous cascades of Niagara Falls and feel the mist and magic of this stunning spectacle of nature.
Day 3
TORONTO–VIA RAIL THE CANADIAN–ONTARIO All Aboard in Toronto! After breakfast, head to Union Station for departure on the Canadian, VIA Rail’s premier transcontinental train. (B,L,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT TRAIN SPOTLIGHT All aboard for a 3-day/3-night journey by train on this classic trip across Canada’s heartland, courtesy of VIA Rail’s Sleeper Plus service. Ride in nostalgic style in the comfort of refurbished 1950’s art-deco-style interiors and domed observation cars providing panoramic views of Ontario’s beautiful landscapes and Canadian countryside.
Day 4
VIA RAIL THE CANADIAN–ONTARIO–WINNIPEG, MANITOBA Riding the Rails Your exciting travel on the VIA Rail train continues through Ontario and Manitoba. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTEPIC RIDE Watch the scenic countryside from your train as you glide past sparkling lakes and sun-dappled forests of Ontario. Try the observation dome for unparalleled views or enjoy quiet conversation in one of the comfortable lounges. Enter Manitoba with its endless golden prairies and vast cultivated fields.
Day 5
VIA RAIL THE CANADIAN–MANITOBA & SASKATCHEWAN Spectacular Saskatchewan Continue through the picturesque prairies and winding rivers of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTSCENIC WONDERS View the ever-changing landscape with ease and comfort as you meet and mingle with fellow passengers and enjoy freshly prepared meals that showcase Canadian cuisine and regional specialties courtesy of your VIA Rail first-class train service.
Day 6
VIA RAIL THE CANADIAN–SASKATCHEWAN–JASPER, ALBERTA Rocky Mountain Trails Travel from Saskatchewan to Jasper. Admire the scenery as your train roughly parallels the famed Yellowhead Route, Canada’s historic trail of westward expansion. Arrive in Jasper for an orientation drive and free time this evening. (B)ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Jasper with free time to taste the traditions of Alberta’s gorgeous town nestled in the Canadian Rockies. Take your pick of an abundance of local eateries serving everything from Mediterranean cuisine to wood-fired pizza to good old-fashioned comfort food like smokehouse brisket, mac-and-cheese, venison sausage, bison short ribs, and baked beans, of course! Your Tour Director can recommend the best spots to satisfy your adventurous appetite, and your GlobusGO mobile app has maps and tips for a terrific night under the Dark Sky stars.
Day 7
JASPER. EXCURSION TO MALIGNE LAKE Untamed Beauty Travel through Jasper’s unspoiled beauty to glacial Maligne Canyon to stunning Maligne Lake for lunch and a narrated scenic cruise to Spirit Island. Return to Jasper where the balance of the day is at leisure to explore Jasper on your own. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTNATURAL WONDERS Spanning nearly 4,250 square miles of spectacular natural beauty, Jasper is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Its vast wilderness, majestic peaks, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking panoramic sights lie below an incredible Dark Sky to thrill stargazers as well. A cruise to Spirit Island on the turquoise waters of Maligne Lake is a spectacular sight to behold as one of the most photographed locations in the world for its jaw-dropping beauty.
Day 8
JASPER–COLUMBIA ICEFIELD–LAKE LOUISE–BANFF Moving Mountains and Lifting Hearts Head south through Jasper National Park on Icefields Parkway to the Columbia Icefield for a thrilling Ice Explorer ride on Athabasca Glacier. Climb Sunwapta Pass to savor stunning vistas of alpine meadows, waterfalls, and massive glaciers. Next, stop at Lake Louise, where turquoise waters form a perfect mirrored reflection of Mount Victoria. Continue into Banff. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT EPIC RIDE Be moved by an expedition across the Athabasca Glacier! Traverse this massive ice field aboard the all-terrain Columbia Ice Explorer and walk on the surface where the Earth’s geology is changing beneath your feet. Feel the force of nature’s strength on an ancient glacier that still carves the face of the Rocky Mountains today.
Day 9
BANFF Breathtaking Banff Guided sightseeing includes Bow River and Falls. The balance of the day is at leisure. Consider an optional flightseeing trip for a bird’s-eye view of the Rockies. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT PICTURE PERFECT Get ready for a spectacular adventure to explore the beauty of Rocky Mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes in Banff National Park—Canada’s first national park. This awe-inspiring natural wonder, where soaring peaks and sapphire lakes meet the heavens for a breathtaking experience like no other on Earth!
Day 10
BANFF–SICAMOUS, BRITISH COLUMBIA–KAMLOOPS Heavenly Heights This morning, travel through the spectacular beauty of Yoho National Park, one of Canada’s most popular recreational areas and site of pre-Cambrian fossil finds. On to Canada’s Glacier National Park, where the motorcoach climbs 4,379-foot-high Rogers Pass, a perfect spot for photos of the surrounding mountain cliffs and glaciers. Visit Sicamous, British Columbia, for a sweet treat at a local dairy. Continue to Kamloops for western hospitality, dinner, and a relaxing evening at your riverside resort, South Thompson Inn. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Put your feet up in historic elegance in this beautifully rugged setting at the South Thompson Inn in Kamloops. Once home to a thoroughbred-racing stable, the 55-acre riverfront property retains its original Manor and Carriage Houses, renovated into first-class luxury lodging.
Day 11
KAMLOOPS–VICTORIA British Columbia Treasures Continue west and catch a BC Ferry to Vancouver Island. A city tour of Victoria includes the gardens of Beacon Hill Park, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park. Free time this evening to enjoy dinner on your own at one of the many restaurants in this harbor city. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT EPIC RIDE Cruise on the BC Ferry from Vancouver to Victoria for a 90-minute journey across the water and keep a watchful eye on this bracing crossing to spy sea birds, seals, dolphins, or maybe even a humpback whale or a pod of orcas. Arrive in the very British city of Victoria on Vancouver Island–also known as the Garden City for its amazing array of blooming flowers. Wander the quaint downtown core with its British colonial architecture to shop and admire the heritage buildings and stunning gardens, then relax over proper British afternoon tea.
Day 12
VICTORIA Spend your day your way in Victoria Explore more of Victoria with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.
Day 13
VICTORIA–VANCOUVER British Columbia Treasures Take the BC Ferry through the Gulf Islands, an archipelago known for its Mediterranean-type climate. Arrive in Vancouver for a city tour that includes the Waterfront, Chinatown, and Stanley Park with remarkable towering evergreen forests and totem poles. Free time this evening to enjoy this vibrant city on your own. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT CITY SIGHTS Created in 1888, Stanley Park is considered the 'crown jewel' of Vancouver. The oldest park in the city of Vancouver, the dramatically beautiful and panoramic setting of Stanley Park spans more than 1000+ acres right next to downtown Vancouver. Native culture is preserved with a striking collection of First Nations totem poles carved from western red cedar, each telling a story of a real or mythical event bearing significant meaning–the eagle representing the kingdom of air; the whale as the lord of the sea; and the wolf as the genius of the land – to name a few.
Day 14
VANCOUVER Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Departures
Hotels
| # | Name | Description | City | Address | Rating |
| 1 | Westin Harbour Castle Toronto | The Westin Harbour Castle Toronto Hotel is located on the vibrant waterfront of Lake Ontario and within short walking distance to the theatre and entertainment districts. The hotel features two restaurants, a lounge, coffee bar, full service fitness center and spa, as well as full service concierge services. This Four diamond property is a landmark downtown Toronto Hotel. | Toronto | 1 Harbour Square | Deluxe |
| 2 | Chateau Jasper | The Chateau Jasper offers an excellent variety of accommodations and facilities. This conveniently located hotel offers 119 fully air-conditioned guestrooms and suites, pleasantly furnished with mountain decor in mind. | Jasper | 96 Geikie Street Jasper | First-Class |
| 3 | Banff Park Lodge | The hotel offers an indoor pool, steam room, Jacuzzi, Hot Plunge Pool, several boutiques, concierge desk, restaurant, and room service. Guestrooms feature cable TV, coffee maker, Internet access, iron/ironing board, hairdryer, and in-room safe. | Banff | 201 Lynx Street | First-Class |
| 4 | South Thompson Inn & Conference Centre | Quietly nestled on 55 scenic acres in the Thompson Valley, this riverfront hotel offers 57 individually decorated guestrooms and is beloved for its southern Kentucky style, western hospitality, and cozy atmosphere. | Kamloops | 3438 Shuswap Road East | Superior First-Class |
| 5 | Inn at Laurel Point | Located in downtown Victoria, the Inn at Laurel Point balances clean, classic design elements with a modern style. The hotel features guestrooms that offer private balconies with harbor views, indoor pool, on-site restaurant and bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi. | Victoria | 680 Montreal Street | First-Class |
| 6 | Sheraton Wall Centre Hotel | Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, the hotel is a short walk to business and entertainment neighborhoods. Traditional Rooms include floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views, signature Sheraton Signature Beds, and crisp linens. Each guestroom has been revitalized to offer a sophisticated, classic look with a modern touch and elegant feel. These guestrooms feature a 55-inch flat screen LCD television and seating area to enjoy the views of Vancouver. | Vancouver | 1088 Burrard St | Moderate Deluxe |
