Explore 5 Stunning Train Journeys in Canada This Summer

Experience the Untamed Beauty of Canada by Train

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Canada than by embarking on a summer train journey. From the pristine beauty of British Columbia and the majestic Rocky Mountains to the charm of Nova Scotia’s coastline and the secluded river canyons of Northern Quebec, train travel seamlessly connects some of Canada’s most unique destinations. Summer is the perfect time to explore the deep wilderness of Canada, as mild temperatures allow access to areas that may be unreachable in winter.

Travelers will also enjoy long daylight hours to take in the stunning scenery outside their train windows. Here are five remarkable train journeys you won’t want to miss this summer.

1. 'Passage to the Peaks' Journey with Rocky Mountaineer

The two-day 'Passage to the Peaks' journey with Rocky Mountaineer will take you through the most breathtaking sights of Western Canada, with stops in Banff, Kamloops, and Jasper. This journey is specially organized for the summer of 2026 to accommodate the influx of visitors to Vancouver during the FIFA World Cup in June and July.

Travelers can expect stunning views throughout the journey, from towering evergreens and crystal-clear glacial lakes to the magnificent Rocky Mountains. From glass-domed coaches and outdoor viewing platforms, you’ll have the chance to admire highlights like Shuswap Lake, Mount Rundle, and the snow-capped peaks of Rogers Pass.

Guests will be taken to hotels along the route for overnight stays, with the option to extend up to nine nights depending on the chosen train package.

2. Ocean Train by Via Rail: Discovering Nova Scotia's Coastline

Via Rail's Ocean train takes you from Montreal to Halifax, traversing Canada’s maritime provinces in just one day. The journey begins in Montreal, and as the sun sets, the train crosses the St. Lawrence River. At dawn, passengers will be treated to the mesmerizing sight of Chaleur Bay's coastline, dotted with hundreds of lighthouses.

For a more comfortable experience, you can opt for the Sleeper Plus class, featuring a private cabin for two, spacious seating, and large windows for scenic views. Onboard, you’ll enjoy a three-course meal paired with Canadian wine, along with a lounge area for relaxation.

3. Journey Through the Abitibi Region with Via Rail

The 13-hour Via Rail journey from Montreal to Senneterre will take you through some of the most beautiful areas of Quebec. The train will cross the Pont de la Riviere du Milieu - the highest railway bridge in Quebec, standing nearly 60 meters above the Milieu River. You'll also have the chance to see serene lakes like Lac-Chat and Lac-a-Beauce, along with opportunities to spot wildlife such as black bears and moose.

The train features comfortable seating with large windows in a 2x2 configuration. Passengers can purchase snacks like sandwiches and other light meals onboard.

4. 'Rainforest to Gold Rush' Journey with Rocky Mountaineer

The three-day 'Rainforest to Gold Rush' journey takes travelers from Vancouver through the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. The train departs from Horseshoe Bay, winds through the fjords of Howe Sound, and explores waterfalls, sparkling lakes, and the majestic Mount Robson - the highest peak in the Rockies.

You can upgrade your ticket to GoldLeaf Service, which offers seating on the upper level with larger windows for an even better view.

5. Cross-Canada Journey with Via Rail

Finally, Via Rail's Canadian Train will take you across five provinces of Canada on a four-day, four-night journey. This adventure covers nearly 3,000 miles and showcases diverse landscapes from Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, to British Columbia.

Highlights of the trip include areas like the Yellowhead Pass, Mount Robson, and stunning waterfalls. The train also offers Prestige Class cabins, providing over 50% more private space compared to standard cabins.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

When planning your train trip to Canada, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, as a Vietnamese citizen, you will need to apply for a tourist visa for Canada, which typically takes 15 to 30 days for approval. For flights, you can fly from Hanoi (HAN) or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Toronto (YYZ) or Vancouver (YVR) with ticket prices ranging from 12 to 20 million VND depending on the time of booking.

The currency in Canada is the Canadian Dollar (CAD), with an exchange rate of approximately 1 CAD to 17,000 VND. Summer, from June to August, is the ideal time to explore train journeys, with pleasant weather and beautiful landscapes. Be sure to keep an eye out for promotions and book your tickets in advance to secure the best prices!

Article sourced and edited from: Condé Nast Traveler