Day 1 - Toronto
Arrive in Toronto, and make your way to the Sheraton Center Toronto Hotel to meet your group and Tour Manager. Check-in for the first of two nights here, and then take some time to get acquainted with this cultural melting pot of a city. Toronto is brimming with fantastic museums, including the Hockey Hall of Fame and the Art Gallery of Ontario, and has an inviting atmosphere that welcomes exploration. Overnight Toronto.
Day 2 - Niagara Falls
This morning, we embark on a full-day excursion to one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders, Niagara Falls. Take in vistas of the roaring water as we lunch in the Falls View Restaurant at the Sheraton Hotel. Following, we have plenty of time to explore the falls, which somehow, are even more dramatic in the winter. Thick snow lies upon the ground, and icicles frame the waterfalls. Overnight Toronto. (L)
Day 3 - The Canadian
The journey of a lifetime awaits as we transfer to Union Station this morning and board VIA Rail’s iconic Canadian. We follow a route that travels across plains and through the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, eventually arriving in coastal Vancouver. Settle into your berth, and watch as the urban landscape fades into the distance. Overnight train. (D)
Day 4 - Toward Winnipeg Aboard the Canadian
Sweeping views of the Canadian Shield surround as we spend our first full day on the Canadian. Views of frozen lakes and vast snowy wilderness are complemented by lush evergreen forests. You may wish to savor these scenes from the glass-enclosed lounge car or from the dining car, where fantastic chef-prepared cuisine is served. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife near the track, including moose, elk and possibly even bear. Overnight train. (B, L, D)
Day 5 - En Route Aboard the Canadian
We continue through the province of Saskatchewan today, passing through snow-covered plains and enjoying views of coniferous forests. The train makes a quick stop in Saskatoon this morning and then presses on toward Edmonton. Take the day to enjoy the amenities of the train, including the onboard entertainment options and the wonderful views from the sightseeing cars. Overnight train. (B, L, D)
Day 6 - Jasper and the Canadian Rockies
Before the sun comes up, VIA Rail’s Canadian begins its climb into the rolling foothills of the Canadian Rockies. We arrive in Jasper early this morning and enjoy time to take in the quiet ambiance of this resort town before the hustle and bustle begins. Settle back into your seat on the train, and enjoy the mountainous scenery as we continue toward the coast. This stretch of the journey is incredibly scenic as we pass along broad glaciers and plunging canyons. Icy lakes and frozen waterfalls come into view as we wind through the rugged landscape. Overnight train. (B, L, D)
Day 7 - Vancouver Sightseeing
Enjoy a delicious chef-prepared breakfast onboard this morning as the gleaming buildings of Vancouver come into view. We depart our train and begin our time in the city with a guided sightseeing tour. Highlights of the excursion include Gastown, Chinatown and Stanley Park, with its beloved Seawall and famous totem poles. Following, we transfer to our hotel, the Sheraton Wall Centre, for the first of three nights. The remainder of the day is yours to continue sightseeing at leisure. This city is filled with immense culture and offers an exemplary gastronomic scene. Overnight Vancouver. (B)
Day 8 - Vancouver at Leisure
Vancouver enjoys an idyllic natural setting, with beautiful snow-capped mountains and deep blue ocean framing the modern skyscrapers of the city. Today is yours to explore Vancouver at your own pace. You may wish to visit one of the fantastic museums that dot the city or to further explore the offerings of Stanley Park. Alternatively, you have the option to escape the city with a visit to Grouse Mountain, where you can ride up the mountain on the Skyride Cable Car or try your hand at winter sports, such as skiing or snowboarding. Tonight, we join together once again for a dinner at the “Top of Vancouver,” a revolving restaurant that offers spectacular views of the city.Overnight Vancouver. (D)
Day 9 - Independent Explorations in Vancouver
Take the day to continue your explorations at leisure. This is a great opportunity to seek out the murals throughout the city or to seek out some of Vancouver’s famous seafood. You could also walk across the beautiful Lion’s Gate Bridge and take in the iconic views that surround. Overnight Vancouver.
Day 10 - Tour Conclusion
As you check out of your hotel, you are free to make your way to Vancouver’s international airport for your return home at leisure.
Destination & Sightseeing
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