Eastern Rail Classic
9 days
Enjoyable for all
Comfortable transport & accommodations. Any physical activities are optional. Temperate environment. Mostly guided. E.g. a train-bus tour
Trip Overview |
Map |
Itinerary |
Options |
Accommodation |
Imagine experiencing the big city of Toronto, bilingual Montreal, historic Quebec City and coastal Halifax – all in just over a week. Travel between each city by train, sitting in comfort as you watch the changing scenery. An overnight train journey – complete with onboard guide – is a highlight of your trip. You’re rocked to sleep in a private cabin, awakening to the sun glinting off the Atlantic Ocean. This is your chance to explore Canada’s east coast like never before.
Outline
Arrive Toronto
2 nights Toronto
2 nights Montreal
1 night Quebec City
1 night VIA Rail
2 nights Halifax
Depart Halifax
Arrive Toronto
2 nights Toronto
2 nights Montreal
1 night Quebec City
1 night VIA Rail
2 nights Halifax
Depart Halifax
Day 1 – Your Canadian Train Vacation Begins – Arrive in Toronto
The sounds of Canada’s largest city welcome you as you step out of your taxi in downtown Toronto. Couples hurry along the sidewalk, rushing to one of Toronto’s big stage productions. A woman quickly shifts all her shopping bags to one arm as she raises a hand to hail a cab, and the smell of Chinese food makes you salivate as a delivery boy bikes along the street in front of you. Toronto beckons and you’re anxious to get out and explore the city.
Day 2 – Urban Exploration – Discover Toronto
Take a step back in Canadian history, see the legislative buildings, witness the pace of life in bustling Chinatown as your onboard guide gives a feel for the history of Toronto.
Heading south, you see the famous harbour and your guide doesn’t stop your bus – you go right into the water! Your amphibious bus bobs around Lake Ontario as you turn to look at the harbour front from an unexpected viewpoint.
Day 3 – A new Culture Awaits – Toronto to Montreal on VIA Rail’s Corridor
Leaving Toronto behind, relax on the Corridor train today as you travel north to Montreal on your Canadian train trip.
Traveling by train is the most scenic option in Canada, relax next to a big picture window as your train passes along the shore of Lake Ontario, through the open farmland of rural Quebec, and beside the St. Lawrence River. The French Canadians of Montreal will happily speak English, but try a little French and the effort is always appreciated in this bilingual city.
Day 4 – French Canada’s Hub - Tour Montreal
The lively residential and financial districts of Montreal are exciting to explore and give you a sense of life in modern Montreal. A visit to the gorgeous Notre Dame Basilica gives a sense of life from the 17th Century.
The view from the top of Mont. Royal may be of a typical North American skyline but this disguises the European feel of this buzzing city.
Montreal is a city with a mix of historic stone architecture and skyscrapers - a modern city with old world charm.
Day 5 – From Metropolis to History – Montreal to Quebec City on VIA Rail’s Corridor
Travel through some of French Canada’s most picturesque countryside as your Canadian train vacation heads toward Quebec City. Step off the train and into a little bit of Europe - right in Canada!
The historic city walls, cobble stone streets, and centuries old buildings give Quebec City its old world air - which can’t be found anywhere else in North America.
Day 6 – Explore Quebec City – Quebec City to Halifax on the Ocean
Visit Place Royale, where the Chateau Frontenac sits grandly on the plateau above, drawing all eyes toward it. Three centuries of Quebec’s military past are on display at the Fortifications, and you can almost see the last battle take place on the Plains of Abraham.
Feel as though you’re stepping into Quebec City’s colourful history as you visit authentic Quebecois shops, sample mouthwatering Tourtiere, and discover the pride that the residents feel for their city. After a full day in Quebec City you’re rocked to sleep on the Ocean train as you leave French Canada and the train heads for Halifax.
Day 7 – Enter the Maritimes – Arrive in Halifax
Wake to views of the Atlantic Ocean, rolling hills, and quaint coastal villages that appear frozen in time.
An onboard guide makes the most of your morning - recounting the history of the Maritimes and describing the region’s unique traditions . Traveling in Easterly class is the best sightseeing tour you’ve ever been on.
Sit in the panoramic dome car and count the colourful sails out on the water before stepping off the train into the upbeat, Celtic atmosphere of the Maritimes’ largest city.
Day 8 – The Coastal Spirit – Tour Halifax
Halifax has a rich Celtic culture a guided tour takes you to the heart of downtown Halifax – the Historic Properties. The district harkens back to Halifax’s early settlers, and stories of these colorful historical characters illustrate their lives.
At the Pier 21 Centre stories are told of the 1.5 million immigrants, war brides, and servicemen who passed through the facility, highlighting the beginnings of modern Canada.
This is the last night of your Canadian train trip - the perfect excuse to treat yourself to fresh seafood – the ultimate regional specialty.
Day 9 – With Fond Memories Made – Depart Halifax
Much too soon, you bid farewell to the scent of salt water in the air and depart from the Halifax Airport.
The sounds of Canada’s largest city welcome you as you step out of your taxi in downtown Toronto. Couples hurry along the sidewalk, rushing to one of Toronto’s big stage productions. A woman quickly shifts all her shopping bags to one arm as she raises a hand to hail a cab, and the smell of Chinese food makes you salivate as a delivery boy bikes along the street in front of you. Toronto beckons and you’re anxious to get out and explore the city.
Day 2 – Urban Exploration – Discover Toronto
Take a step back in Canadian history, see the legislative buildings, witness the pace of life in bustling Chinatown as your onboard guide gives a feel for the history of Toronto.
Heading south, you see the famous harbour and your guide doesn’t stop your bus – you go right into the water! Your amphibious bus bobs around Lake Ontario as you turn to look at the harbour front from an unexpected viewpoint.
Day 3 – A new Culture Awaits – Toronto to Montreal on VIA Rail’s Corridor
Leaving Toronto behind, relax on the Corridor train today as you travel north to Montreal on your Canadian train trip.
Traveling by train is the most scenic option in Canada, relax next to a big picture window as your train passes along the shore of Lake Ontario, through the open farmland of rural Quebec, and beside the St. Lawrence River. The French Canadians of Montreal will happily speak English, but try a little French and the effort is always appreciated in this bilingual city.
Day 4 – French Canada’s Hub - Tour Montreal
The lively residential and financial districts of Montreal are exciting to explore and give you a sense of life in modern Montreal. A visit to the gorgeous Notre Dame Basilica gives a sense of life from the 17th Century.
The view from the top of Mont. Royal may be of a typical North American skyline but this disguises the European feel of this buzzing city.
Montreal is a city with a mix of historic stone architecture and skyscrapers - a modern city with old world charm.
Day 5 – From Metropolis to History – Montreal to Quebec City on VIA Rail’s Corridor
Travel through some of French Canada’s most picturesque countryside as your Canadian train vacation heads toward Quebec City. Step off the train and into a little bit of Europe - right in Canada!
The historic city walls, cobble stone streets, and centuries old buildings give Quebec City its old world air - which can’t be found anywhere else in North America.
Day 6 – Explore Quebec City – Quebec City to Halifax on the Ocean
Visit Place Royale, where the Chateau Frontenac sits grandly on the plateau above, drawing all eyes toward it. Three centuries of Quebec’s military past are on display at the Fortifications, and you can almost see the last battle take place on the Plains of Abraham.
Feel as though you’re stepping into Quebec City’s colourful history as you visit authentic Quebecois shops, sample mouthwatering Tourtiere, and discover the pride that the residents feel for their city. After a full day in Quebec City you’re rocked to sleep on the Ocean train as you leave French Canada and the train heads for Halifax.
Day 7 – Enter the Maritimes – Arrive in Halifax
Wake to views of the Atlantic Ocean, rolling hills, and quaint coastal villages that appear frozen in time.
An onboard guide makes the most of your morning - recounting the history of the Maritimes and describing the region’s unique traditions . Traveling in Easterly class is the best sightseeing tour you’ve ever been on.
Sit in the panoramic dome car and count the colourful sails out on the water before stepping off the train into the upbeat, Celtic atmosphere of the Maritimes’ largest city.
Day 8 – The Coastal Spirit – Tour Halifax
Halifax has a rich Celtic culture a guided tour takes you to the heart of downtown Halifax – the Historic Properties. The district harkens back to Halifax’s early settlers, and stories of these colorful historical characters illustrate their lives.
At the Pier 21 Centre stories are told of the 1.5 million immigrants, war brides, and servicemen who passed through the facility, highlighting the beginnings of modern Canada.
This is the last night of your Canadian train trip - the perfect excuse to treat yourself to fresh seafood – the ultimate regional specialty.
Day 9 – With Fond Memories Made – Depart Halifax
Much too soon, you bid farewell to the scent of salt water in the air and depart from the Halifax Airport.
Options & Upgrades
This trip can be customized for your perfect vacation - call us for friendly local advice
This trip can be customized for your perfect vacation - call us for friendly local advice
- Upgrade to VIA 1 service for access to the Panorama Lounge at the train station, priority boarding, and meals and bar service, including alcoholic drinks served by an attendant on board the
train - Upgrade to an ‘Easterly Class’ Deluxe bedroom onboard The Ocean - facilities include an in-cabin shower, all meals and access to the Dome Observation car
- Add extra nights in Toronto and Halifax as well as day-trips and tours for great additions to this trip
Accommodation
Standard, Superior or Deluxe hotels
Standard, Superior or Deluxe hotels
Request A Booking |
Dates + Prices |
HIGHLIGHTS
- Travel aboard VIA Rail
- See Eastern & Atlantic Canada's diverse landscapes
- Sightseeing city tours of Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City & Halifax
- Great choice of hotels
Testimonials
Absolutely fantastic holiday, in no small part due to your work. All of the transfers were completely seamless and both trains and accommodation were first class. It would never have been possible for us to organise such a trip alone. Many thanks and I will certainly be reccomending you to all here in Ireland who are thinking of going to Canada on holiday. Best and thanks
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Reserving Your Trip Is Easy
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Call us toll free
1 800 667 4744 (US/Can)
0 800 917 5924 (UK)
1 800 992 872 (Aus.)
Office hours:
M-F, 6am - 6pm Pacific Time.
Sat 10am - 4pm.
A personal trip advisor will help you book your perfect trip.
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Reserve Online using the form at left.
We will contact you as quickly as we can and you will not be under any obligation until after we have confirmed all details with you.
At that time a US$500 per person deposit is payable and you will be subject to our usual terms and conditions.
Reserve your spot without obligation for 48 hours. Our consultants will contact you to confirm details before you pay a deposit.
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2009 Package Start Dates
• Package is available daily
• This package is not available for arrivals in Montreal during the Grand Prix (June dates TBA)
Price Notes
• Prices are per person
• Double means two people occupying a room
• Triple, quad and child rates are available
Includes
• 8 nights accommodation (including 1 night on board The Ocean)
• 2-hour sightseeing tour of Toronto
• Toronto to Montreal rail transfer on VIA Rail’s Corridor (comfort class)
• 3-hour sightseeing tour of Montreal
• Montreal to Quebec City on VIA Rail (comfort class)
• Quebec City ( Charny) to Halifax rail transfer on VIA Rail’s The Ocean (Comfort class standard bedroom accommodation)
• 1 breakfast and 1 lunch on board VIA Rail (only available on Easterly train departures between June 15 – October 18, 2008)
• Choice of a 3-hour sightseeing tour of Halifax or Whale-watching cruise
• Provincial taxes
• Documentation package
Not Included
• Meals and attractions, unless otherwise specified
• Airport and rail station transfers
• Trip Cancellation Insurance
• GST (Goods & Services Tax)
• Package is available daily
• This package is not available for arrivals in Montreal during the Grand Prix (June dates TBA)
| STANDARD | USD $ | CAD $ | Upgrade | |||
| Double | Single | Double | Single | USD $ | CAD $ | |
| May 25 2009 - Jun 8 2009 | 1,278 | 1,932 | 1,444 | 2,183 | 225 | 255 |
| Jun 9 2009 - Sep 2 2009 | 1,441 | 2,152 | 1,628 | 2,432 | 225 | 255 |
| Sep 3 2009 - Oct 9 2009 | 1,278 | 1,932 | 1,444 | 2,183 | 225 | 255 |
| SUPERIOR | USD $ | CAD $ | Upgrade | |||
| Double | Single | Double | Single | USD $ | CAD $ | |
| May 25 2009 - Jun 8 2009 | 1,448 | 2,252 | 1,636 | 2,544 | 225 | 255 |
| Jun 9 2009 - Sep 2 2009 | 1,661 | 2,571 | 1,877 | 2,906 | 225 | 255 |
| Sep 3 2009 - Oct 9 2009 | 1,494 | 2,345 | 1,689 | 2,650 | 225 | 255 |
| DELUXE | USD $ | CAD $ | Upgrade | |||
| Double | Single | Double | Single | USD $ | CAD $ | |
| May 25 2009 - Jun 8 2009 | 1,679 | 2,738 | 1,897 | 3,094 | 225 | 255 |
| Jun 9 2009 - Aug 30 2009 | 1,912 | 3,070 | 2,160 | 3,469 | 225 | 255 |
| Aug 31 - Sep 3 2009 | 2,025 | 3,312 | 2,289 | 3,743 | 225 | 255 |
| Sep 4 2009 - Oct 9 2009 | 1,858 | 3,087 | 2,100 | 3,489 | 225 | 255 |
• Prices are per person
• Double means two people occupying a room
• Triple, quad and child rates are available
Includes
• 8 nights accommodation (including 1 night on board The Ocean)
• 2-hour sightseeing tour of Toronto
• Toronto to Montreal rail transfer on VIA Rail’s Corridor (comfort class)
• 3-hour sightseeing tour of Montreal
• Montreal to Quebec City on VIA Rail (comfort class)
• Quebec City ( Charny) to Halifax rail transfer on VIA Rail’s The Ocean (Comfort class standard bedroom accommodation)
• 1 breakfast and 1 lunch on board VIA Rail (only available on Easterly train departures between June 15 – October 18, 2008)
• Choice of a 3-hour sightseeing tour of Halifax or Whale-watching cruise
• Provincial taxes
• Documentation package
Not Included
• Meals and attractions, unless otherwise specified
• Airport and rail station transfers
• Trip Cancellation Insurance
• GST (Goods & Services Tax)
