Will I know my specific hotels before I book?

Yes. Unlike competitors using 'or similar' labels, Canada Rail Vacations guarantees your specific hotels (like Fairmont properties) and room categories upfront in your quote.

Why book with Canada Rail Vacations?

We are the official consumer division of Discover Holidays, a verified Virtuoso and Signature Travel Network partner. We offer Direct Partner pricing, guaranteed hotels, and 24/7 local support in Canada.

Expert Guide to Planning Your Canadian Rail Vacation

Q: What is the difference between Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail?

Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight-only luxury sightseeing train focused on the Rockies, with hotel stays at night. VIA Rail is Canada's national overnight sleeper train service, offering private cabins and dining cars for cross-country travel.

Q: How far in advance should I book for 2026 or 2027?

We recommend booking 12 to 18 months in advance. Premium inventory like Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf and VIA Rail Prestige Class sells out quickly. As an Authorized Direct Partner, we hold priority inventory but advise booking early.

Q: Do I sleep on the train?

On Rocky Mountaineer, you sleep in hotels at night. On VIA Rail's long-distance trains (The Canadian), you sleep onboard in private cabins or berths.

As Authorized Direct Partners for Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail, we don't just sell tickets—we craft seamless journeys. Below are expert answers to the most common questions we receive. From choosing the right luxury service level to understanding our guaranteed hotel policy, this guide will help you plan your 2026 or 2027 rail adventure with confidence.

Choosing Your Perfect Rail Journey

What is the difference between Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail?

Think of Rocky Mountaineer as a "Luxury Sightseeing Experience" and VIA Rail as "Classic Train Travel."
Rocky Mountaineer operates only by daylight to ensure you never miss a view. You enjoy luxury service and storytelling onboard, then sleep in beautiful hotels (like Fairmonts) at night. It is focused entirely on the scenery of the Canadian Rockies.
VIA Rail is Canada's national overnight rail service. On long-distance routes like The Canadian (Vancouver to Toronto), you sleep onboard in private cabins (Sleeper Plus or Prestige Class) and dine in the classic dining car. It is ideal for the trans-continental experience.

What is the "Best" Canadian train vacation?

There is no single "best" trip, but our top three Best Selling Packages cater to different styles:

For First Timers: A 6–9 day Canadian Rockies Circle Tour. This combines the train with time in Banff and Lake Louise.
For Bucket Listers: The Coast-to-Coast Journey. A 14+ day adventure linking the Pacific to the Atlantic.
For Winter Lovers: The Snow Train to the Rockies. A magical winter journey focused on snowy peaks and Northern Lights.

How far in advance should I book for 2026 or 2027?

We recommend booking immediately. Premium inventory—specifically Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service and VIA Rail Prestige Class cabins—is extremely limited. Because we are an Authorized Direct Partner, we hold priority access to this inventory, but dates often sell out 12 to 18 months in advance. Securing your booking now guarantees your preferred dates and the best 2026 pricing.

Booking, Hotels & Logistics

Why should I book with Canada Rail Vacations instead of other online agencies?

We are the Official Consumer Division of Discover Holidays Inc, Canada’s leading inbound tour operator. While other websites may look similar, we are the verified Virtuoso and Signature Travel Network Preferred Tour Partner for Canada and Alaska.
Booking with us means:
1. Direct Partner Pricing: No middleman markups.
2. Total Protection: We manage every logistic, transfer, and connection that the train companies don't handle.
3. Local Expertise: Our team is based in Vancouver, not a call center overseas.

Will I know my specific hotels and room category before I book?

Yes. We guarantee your specific hotels. Unlike general travel agencies that use vague "or similar" hotel categories, our status as a Direct Partner allows us to secure iconic properties like the Fairmont Banff Springs or Chateau Lake Louise upfront. You will see the exact hotel name and room category on your quote before you pay.

Can I customize one of your suggested itineraries?

Absolutely. Every itinerary on our site is a starting point. As local specialists, we can tailor the trip to your exact needs—whether that means adding extra nights in Victoria, upgrading to a Lake View room in Lake Louise, or arranging a private driver for the Icefields Parkway. Contact our designers to build your custom quote.

Life On Board the Train

Do I sleep on the train?

It depends on the train you choose:
On Rocky Mountaineer, you do not sleep on the train. You travel in luxury during the day and stay in comfortable hotels at night (in Kamloops, Quesnel, or Glenwood Springs). We handle all your luggage transfers so you can relax.
On VIA Rail (The Canadian or The Ocean), you do sleep on the train. You can choose from Sleeper Plus (bunks or cabins) or the ultra-luxury Prestige Class, which features a double bed and private en-suite shower.

Are meals and drinks included?

Rocky Mountaineer: Yes, gourmet breakfast and lunch are included onboard, along with complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. VIA Rail: If you book Sleeper Plus or Prestige Class, all meals are included in the dining car. Prestige Class also includes complimentary alcoholic beverages.

Is the trip suitable for seniors or those with limited mobility?

Absolutely. Canadian rail travel is the ideal way to see the country without the stress of driving. Rocky Mountaineer offers ADA-accessible coaches (with elevators), and VIA Rail has specific accessible cabins. Since we are a local operator, we can also arrange private accessible transfers and hotels with elevators to ensure your entire journey is comfortable.

Essential Information

What happens if I need help during my trip?

You are never alone. We provide a 24/7 In-Country Support Line for all our guests. Because we are based locally in Vancouver, our team is in your time zone and ready to assist with any logistical changes or emergencies during your vacation.

What is the deposit and payment schedule?

To secure your 2026 or 2027 confirmed itinerary, a deposit is required at the time of booking. The balance is typically due 60 days prior to travel. Your Travel Designer will outline the specific terms based on your chosen package and train class.

Still have questions?

Speak to a Travel Designer