Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (2024)

By Louise Weiss

Published

Sep 18, 2023

8

min read

Experience an overnight train ridethrough Canada's most iconic scenery. See wildlife and the best sights from the train's glass-domed viewing cars. Enjoy your own private cabin where you can sleep, relax, and enjoy the views.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (11)

Table of contents

  • 5 Most Popular Sleeper Car Train Trips
  • Canadian Trains with Sleeper Cars
  • Types of Sleeper Trains in Canada
  • Comparison: Sleeper Train Service Levels
  • Places to visit by Sleeper Trains
  • Frequently Asked Questions

There's something special about sleeping on the train. Stretch out in your soft, plush bed in your private cabin and let the gentle rocking of the car lull you into a deep sleep. Depending on the train, your cabin will either have separate beds, or sofa that will be folded down into a luxurious bed for two at night.

At Canadian Train Vacations, we create personalized trips to Canada. Our travel experts have slept on many trains across the country. If you have any questions about Canadian train trips with sleeper accommodations, cost, destinations or options, please get in touch. We’d love to answer your questions.

5 Most Popular Sleeper Car Train Trips

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (12)

Keep reading or chat with one of our local travel experts. We’re passionate about Canada and can help you at any stage of your vacation planning.

Get in touch
Vancouver to Toronto Train Tour

Looking for a Canadian train tour with sleeper cars? Travel on VIA Rail’s The Canadian sleeper train from Toronto all the way to Jasper. This train has several sleeper options. Watch as the scenery dramatically changes across Canada. You’ll start in the Canadian Shield. Then move through the expanse of the prairies, before exploring the sky-grazing Rocky Mountains. You’ll then take the Rocky Mountaineer, the daylight train, from Banff to Vancouver.

Miles covered on train: 2,775

Days on train: 5

Nights on train: 3

Canadian Rockies Voyage by Train

Ride a Rocky Mountain sleeper train on the overnight trip from Jasper to Vancouver on VIA Rail. This is an ideal sleeper vacation for people wanting to try a sleeper train but not wanting to spend days on board. You’ll also have time to explore the Canadian Rockies and explore the Icefields Parkway.

Miles covered on train: 532

Days on train: 1

Nights on train: 1

The Canadian Prestige Journey

This is the ultimate trip for travellers wanting a luxury sleeper train across Canada. Enjoy a private modern cabin in VIA’s top-of-the-line Prestige Class on The Canadian. You’ll travel between Toronto and Vancouver, seeing all of the country’s top sites, and also have time to discover Banff and Jasper.

Miles covered on train: 2,740 miles

Days on train: 4

Nights on train: 4

Canada Coast to Coast by Train

Experience two different Canadian sleeper trains on this tour from Halifax to Vancouver. You’ll sleep on VIA’s Ocean and Canadian routes, and will also have time on the daylight train, the Rocky Mountaineer. If you only get to Canada once, this will take you from coast to coast, immersing you in the country.

Miles covered on train: 3,561 miles

Days on train: 6

Nights on train: 4

Rockies Rail Winter Wonderland

Also known as the “Snow Train,” this cozy winter trip takes you on the sleeper train between Vancouver and Jasper. As active or as relaxing a vacation as you like, add-on activities include wildlife tours, snow shoeing, wine tastings and more.

Miles covered on train: 532 miles

Days on train: 1

Nights on train: 1

Download a brochure

Get inspired with sample itineraries, train information, route maps, and travel advice from our local experts.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (13)

Get your brochureSchedule a call

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (14)

Canadian Trains with Sleeper Cars

There are two VIA Rail routes in Canada where you can travel overnight on the train. Both these Canadian sleeper trains are available all year long. Travel across Canada between Vancouver to Toronto on the Canadian Train or visit the east coast of Canada and travel overnight on the Ocean Train from Montreal to Halifax.

The Canadian is equipped with special panoramic viewing cars to provide you with the best view of the scenery day or night.

Onboard these trains, the main level of service is Sleeper Plus Class, which has different sleeper options. On the Canadian route passengers can also upgrade to Prestige Class for a higher level of luxury.

#1 Travel tip: Best for Families

If you're travelling with small children, you may want to try one of our one-night sleeper-train journeys before committing to multiple nights on the train.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (15)

Louise Weiss

Director of Legendary Hospitality

VIA Rail’s The Canadian

Discover how big and beautiful Canada is on The Canadian. This is a great way to see the country if you’re only visiting Canada once. Travelling from Toronto to Vancouver, the Canadian carries you from the forests of Ontario, through the sweeping fields of the Prairies and past the dramatic snow-capped Rocky Mountains. Ask your Canadian Train Vacation advisor about getting off the train for four days in Jasper.

VIA Rail’s The Ocean

Onboard the Ocean Train you'll experience the East Coast of Canada. This route takes you through Quebec and the seascapes of the Canadian Maritime Province of Nova Scotia before reaching your final destination of Halifax. As you relax onboard, you'll see tiny communities along your route, representing French Canadian, Acadian, Celtic and English heritage.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (16)

Download our Brochures and Mini GuidesFind out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. Our brochures are here to help.Explore our brochures

Types of Sleeper Trains in Canada

Sleeper Plus Class: Semi-Private Berth

In the daytime, you get a couch like seat which faces another passenger. At night the space converts into an upper and lower bunk. The upper berth does require using a ladder. There is access to a shared shower.

Sleeper Plus Class: Sleeper Cabin for One

This small private cabin features a pull-out bed. There is a toilet and sink, but the bed covers the toilet at night. There is access to a shared shower.

Sleeper Plus Class: Sleeper Cabin for Two

These typically include bunk-style beds. With comfortable armchairs that converts to the lower bed in the evenings, travel with complete comfort and privacy. Each cabin has its own private washroom, with toilet and sink.

Prestige Class: Sleeper Cabin Suite

The Prestige Sleeper cabin is 50% larger than the cabin for two in Sleeper Plus class. It features an extra-large window and has its own private washroom with shower. A modular leather L-shaped couch transforms at night into a Murphy bed for two facing the window.

Comparison: Sleeper Train Service Levels

Sleeper Plus Class

  • Three different styles: berths (lower or upper), a cabin for one or a cabin for two. Two cabins for two can be joined to create larger units for four.
  • Typically include bunk-style beds. With a comfortable armchair that converts to a bed in the evenings.
  • Cabins have a private toilet. The cabin for one has a toilet hidden under a chair, while the cabin for two has a separate toilet.
  • On the Canadian Train, sleeper plus passengers have access to a shared in-car shower.
  • Meals in the dining car are included, and complimentary fruits and cookies in the lounge cars between meals
  • . Priority boarding and access to the station lounges in Vancouver/Toronto.
    Access to the Panorama and Skyline on the Canadian Train.

Prestige Class

  • Luxury sleeper train across Canada, only available on VIA Rail’s Canadian Train from Toronto to Vancouver.
  • All-inclusive service: all meals, pre-dining appetizers, complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
  • An exclusive concierge service tends to your every need and provides a turndown service every night.
  • Reserved seating in the Panorama and Prestige Park Cars.
  • The Prestige Sleeper cabin is 50 per cent larger than the cabin for two in Sleeper Plus class, with an extra-large window.
  • Private washroom with shower.
  • A modular leather L-shaped couch transforms into a Murphy bed for two facing the window.

#2 Travel tip: Use train stops for showering

Sometimes the train needs to stop for freight traffic. This is a great time to go for a shower if you're worried about the train motion.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (17)

Athena McKenzie

Content Manager

Places to visit by Sleeper Trains

Canada was built along the historic Canadian Rail system, so it makes sense that many major Canadian cities are easily accessible by train. With train stations often centrally located within these cosmopolitan cities or remote towns, it is easy to explore the best of Canada by train.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a delightfully liveable city throughout the year, but it really shines in the summertime. You'll have the best of both worlds — the culture, dining and shopping of a world class metropolis and mountains and hiking trails right on the doorstep. The climate of Vancouver is also ideal in the summer — not too cold, but also not scorching hot. It's just the right temperature to treat yourself to some ice cream as you wander around the city.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (18)

Jasper

This small mountain town at the centre of Jasper National Park offers visitors a laid-back mountain experience – with lots of options for adventure, discovery or relaxation. While we recommend visiting any time of year, it’s truly magical in winter, which is why it is part of our Rockies Rail Winter Wonderland sleeper train vacation.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (19)

Banff

The town of Banff, established in 1885, is the hub of Banff National Park. A lively mountain town with great restaurants, Banff is a welcome change of pace. Enjoy strolling Banff Avenue or try one of the numerous outdoor adventures offered in this outdoor playground. Banff was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for the mountain peaks, glaciers, lakes, and waterfalls.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (20)

Lake Louise

The quaint hamlet in the heart of the Rockies is named after the nearby lake. Known for its sparkling turquoise blue waters and impressive glacier-clad peaks, Lake Louise offers a surreal paddling experience in the warm summer months and one of the most scenic skating rinks in the world in winter. It’s a must-do on any of our train packages to the Rockies.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (21)

Montreal

The French-speaking city of Montréal is located on island in the Saint Lawrence River and named after Mt. Royal. Its 19 boroughs, many of which were once independent cities, include neighbourhoods such as French colonial Vieux-Montréal – with imposing Notre-Dame Basilica at its center – to industrial Sud-Ouest and artist-friendly Plateau. Speak to your Canadian Train Vacations travel advisor about adding a few days in the city to your trip to Eastern Canada.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (22)

Quebec

The tiny cobblestone streets, steep hills and welcoming squares of this European-esque city are a delight to explore under blue summer skies. Once you have had your fill of the quaint, French-Canadian charm after wandering through the streets, you can head to the The Baie de Beauport, the city's beach. Watch the locals play beach volleyball as the sunlight sparkles on the water.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (23)

Toronto

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and is a cultural hub. There are great neighbourhoods, wonderful restaurants, bars and museums, Broadway shows, concerts and galleries. Along with landmarks, such as the CN Tower, Rogers Centre (better known as the Skydome), you’ll want to discover its hidden gems. Walk its vibrant, quirky neighbourhoods that reflect the incredible diversity of Canada's population. Niagara Falls is also an easy day trip from Toronto and a must-do if you’re only getting to this area once.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (24)

Halifax

Halifax is the largest port in Canada's Maritime Provinces. Stroll along the cobbled streets exploring galleries and shops and dine out on fresh lobster on your visit.

The city’s ties to the sea and the Celtic people are evident in the dialect of the locals, the songs and fiddle music played in the pubs, and the wonderful maritime museum on the harbourfront. Talk to your Canadian Train Vacation Advisor about a day trip to explore Cape Breton and to Peggy’s Cove, one of Canada’s iconic destinations.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (25)

Churchill

Located on the edge of the Arctic, Churchill offers the feel of a rugged frontier town with all the amenities of an international tourist destination. Known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, visitors flock to Churchill in October and November to view polar bears in the wild, and again in June and July to watch beluga whales in the Churchill River. The sleeper train to Churchill from Winnipeg is a truly unique opportunity to meet the locals — and maybe even see the Northern Lights.

Check Out: Northern Lights Train Trip Vacation

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (26)

Ottawa

Immerse yourself in Canadian culture in the capital city of Ottawa. Take a walking tour of the Gothic Parliament buildings and the downtown core, a vibrant mix of neighbourhoods at the confluence of three rivers. This city offers something special at every time of year. There’s a multitude of festivals in Summer, stunning Fall colours, skating on the Rideau Canal in Winter, and the world-famous tulip festival in Spring.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (27)

What Our Customers Say

We all loved taking the sleeper train from Vancouver to Jasper

The day trip to Victoria was long, but memorable. Butchart Gardens is a world class treasure. We all loved taking the sleeper train from Vancouver to Jasper best. It was such a dif...

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (28)

Lisa, Michael and Family

OH, USA

Everything we hoped for

We can't thank you enough for the fabulous arrangements that you made for our long-anticipated trip to Western Canada. We're unable to take very many vacations, so we're duly appre...

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (29)

Tom and Teresa

SC, USA

The hike was the highlight of the trip

The suggestion that I stay 2 nights in Jasper was inspired. The hike was the highlight of the trip and the guide was the best. Her knowledge of the flora and fauna and the history...

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (30)

Mary

WI, USA

See more customer testimonials

Why book your sleeper train in Canada with Canadian Train Vacations?

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (31)

We take care of all the details

You want to relax and enjoy your trip, not get overwhelmed by the planning. Let us make all of the bookings for you, including rail tickets, hotels, excursions and activities, meals and transfers.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (32)

Independent travel with expert support

Enjoy local expertise and guidance with a personalized itinerary. Your preferences and needs are our priority. We take care of you from the moment you land until the moment you leave.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (33)

Get help when you need it

You’ll receive the inside scoop before you even leave home. And you can relax during your vacation because we’re only a phone call away if you have any questions while you’re in Canada.

Schedule a call

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. There are three different types of private cabins. VIA Rail’s Sleeper Plus has private cabins for one or two people. VIA Rail’s Prestige Class is a luxury cabin for two with a private shower.

Yes, you can shower on Canada’s sleeper trains. VIA Rail’s Sleeper Plus class has shower in each train car. VIA Rail’s Prestige Class cabins have a private shower.

Yes. Except for Economy Class tickets, all meals are included on VIA Rail’s sleeper routes. In Economy Class, meals and snacks are available for purchase.

The cost depends on the route, service class and length of your trip. Our packages that include a sleeper train start at $3,230 per person.

About the author: Louise Weiss is Director of Legendary Hospitality with Fresh Tracks Canada. Having worked in the Canadian travel industry for more than 25 years, she enjoys sharing her local expertise with visitors. She is based in North Vancouver and has spent time...Read more

Explore More Tours

The Canadian train Tours for Seniors Rocky Mountaineer trips Vancouver train tours Bucket list trains Explore Rockies trains

Discuss your Canadian train vacation with a local travel expert

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (40)

Schedule a callSend us a message

Or call us toll free

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (41)

Current promotions

Sign up for special offers, monthly Canadian Insider tips, and vacation inspiration.

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations (2024)

FAQs

Top 5 Canadian Train Trips with Sleeper Accommodations? ›

The cost varies between routes and the time of year but for the 2024 season for travel between Toronto and Vancouver, it will cost around CAD $2500 per person in the winter months and $4500 per person in the summer months for a Sleeper Plus cabin.

How much does it cost to ride a train with sleeper accommodations in Canada? ›

The cost varies between routes and the time of year but for the 2024 season for travel between Toronto and Vancouver, it will cost around CAD $2500 per person in the winter months and $4500 per person in the summer months for a Sleeper Plus cabin.

What is the most beautiful train journey in Canada? ›

1. Canada Coast to Coast by Train. The Coast to Coast by train tops the list of best Canadian rail trips. You'll see the country's top highlights, including Peggy's Cove, Niagara Falls and Lake Louise.

How much is the luxury Canadian sleeper train from Toronto to Vancouver? ›

The Toronto to Vancouver sleeper train cost depends on the train class you select and the date you choose to travel. Fares for a cabin for two in Sleeper Plus Class start at approximately $2000 per person. Fares for Prestige Class cabins start at approximately $5000 per person.

What is the luxury train in Canada? ›

The most luxurious train in Canada is the Rocky Mountaineer. Renowned for its GoldLeaf Service, the train offers bi-level dome coaches with panoramic views, gourmet dining, and top-tier personalized service.

Are sleeper trains worth it? ›

Sleepers trains can be a great way to travel long distances overnight as you rest up in comfort, arriving ready for action the next day. We recommend you book your sleeper train early to secure your cabin, as there is limited sleeper train availability.

What is the difference between sleeper plus class and prestige class? ›

The Prestige Sleeper cabin, which is 50% larger than the cabin for two in Sleeper Plus class, for the duration of your train journey. Priority reservations in the dining car. Delicious meals prepared by onboard chefs every day (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Are Canadian train trips worth it? ›

Luckily, Canadian train trips criss-cross most of it, and these rail journeys allow you to take in some of the world's most spectacular scenery, stress-free. Just imagine: the nation's vistas unfolding before you slowly (or swiftly, depending on your chariot) while you remain in the comfort of your seat.

Why is Rocky Mountaineer so expensive? ›

With the limited supply of space and the high demand, the cost of this train journey makes it a bucket-list item, not an everyday mode of transportation.

What is the difference between VIA Rail prestige and Rocky Mountaineer? ›

With its more affordable ticket options and comprehensive network covering various destinations, VIA Rail offers a cost-effective means to explore the stunning landscapes of the Rockies. On the other hand, if you're seeking luxury and indulgence amidst breathtaking scenery, Rocky Mountaineer beckons.

What is the best month to go on the Rocky Mountaineer? ›

The Canadian Rockies are a must- see destination during any season, especially from April to October onboard Rocky Mountaineer. While the summer months tend to be the most popular, the spring runoff and fall colours both offer compelling views for anyone visiting the area.

Is the train ride from Vancouver to Banff worth it? ›

Train travel from Vancouver to Banff is the best way to see Canada's most famous sites. When you drive your own vehicle, you have to pay attention to the road instead of the beautiful sights around you. Even if you're not driving, it's tough to enjoy the scenery when you're surrounded by other vehicles.

How much does a prestige ticket cost on the Canadian train? ›

Compare fares by class
ROUTES Fares valid for both directionsECONOMY CLASS Escape farePRESTIGE CLASS Prestige cabin for two with shower, fare per person
WINNIPEG—VANCOUVERSTARTING AT $322 *STARTING AT $3366
WINNIPEG—EDMONTONSTARTING AT $174 *STARTING AT $2201
TORONTO—WINNIPEGSTARTING AT $253 *STARTING AT $2783
4 more rows

How much does a train trip across Canada cost? ›

Fares
One way per person in CAD inc taxEconomy Class reclining seatPrestige class sleeper***
Toronto to Vancouver (or vice versa):From $444From $4,655
Toronto to Winnipeg (or vice versa):From $218From $2,601
Toronto to Jasper (or vice versa):From $367From $3,507
2 more rows

Are there sleeper cars on Canadian trains? ›

Yes, two trains in Canada, VIA Rail's The Canadian and The Ocean, offer sleeper cabins with beds. The Canadian's Prestige class cabins come with a private bedroom, en-suite bathroom, and top-notch amenities.

What is the fare of sleeper? ›

How many persons can be in one ticket?
ClassMin Dist for Charge (Kms)Basic Fare at Min Dist (INR)
123
Sleeper Class200120
AC Chair Car150205
AC 3- Tier300428
14 more rows
Apr 12, 2018

What is sleeper plus on the Canadian? ›

This is a sleeper compartment for two people has 1 upper and 1 lower bunk berth, a private bathroom with a toilet and a sink (in addition to shower facilities in the coach), and is suitable for two travelers.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Wyatt Volkman LLD

Last Updated:

Views: 5917

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (66 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Wyatt Volkman LLD

Birthday: 1992-02-16

Address: Suite 851 78549 Lubowitz Well, Wardside, TX 98080-8615

Phone: +67618977178100

Job: Manufacturing Director

Hobby: Running, Mountaineering, Inline skating, Writing, Baton twirling, Computer programming, Stone skipping

Introduction: My name is Wyatt Volkman LLD, I am a handsome, rich, comfortable, lively, zealous, graceful, gifted person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.