Canada Cities by Train

Itinerary

Day 1 – Travel to Toronto

Early lunchtime flight from London direct to Toronto, arriving early afternoon local time. Our traveller took the ‘Union Pearson Express’ train from the airport’s Terminal 1 into the city’s Union Station in just 25 minutes. His accommodation for the next 3 nights was a mere 5 minutes from the railway station. The Strathcona Hotel is located in the Financial District, an eco-friendly hotel just a 15-minute walk from The Path, CN Tower and Rogers Centre.

Days 2 & 3 – Explore Toronto

Toronto is a major Canadian city along Lake Ontario’s northwestern shore. It's a dynamic metropolis with a core of soaring skyscrapers and probably one of the most diverse cities in the world with over 140 languages spoken by its residents. The result is a vibrant place buzzing with activity and home to some of the world's finest restaurants. As well as admiring its urban architecture there are lots of green havens to relax in and it is worth taking a ferry across the lake to a nearby island to see stunning views of the city skyline.

Day 4 – To Ottawa

A mid-morning departure from Union Station for a 5 hour rail journey across southern Ontario, with stops in Guildwood and Kingston, before reaching Ottawa Railway Station at 1500. The station is located outside the downtown of Ottawa – a 10 minute taxi ride to the Novotel Hotel where our traveller stayed for 2 nights. This eco-friendly hotel is steps away from the Ottawa Art Gallery, Department of National Defence and the Rideau Centre.

Day 5 – Explore Ottawa

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada and stands on the south bank of the Ottawa River in the eastern portion of southern Ontario. Its Gothic Parliament buildings monopolise the city’s downtown centre, contrasted by the various arty districts around the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of sights to see, including Parliament Hill where the ‘Changing of the Guard’ occurs daily, ByWard Market, the Rideau Canal and world-class museums and galleries.

Day 6 – By Rail to Montreal

A mid-morning departure by train for a two hour journey to Montreal for a 3-night stay at the Bonaventure Hotel, just a 10-minute walk to The Underground City, Bell Centre and Christ Church Cathedral.

Day 7 – Day Trip to Quebec

Quebec is a 3 hour and 20 minute train journey from Montreal so it is possible to spend a full afternoon exploring this wonderful city with its historic quarter and fortified colonial core. It is wonderful to wander around its stone buildings and narrow streets that sit on a cliff-top position overlooking the scenic St. Lawrence River. Depart Quebec on the 1745 train.

Day 8 – Explore Montreal

Montreal is a charming city with a strong French influence and a metro system modelled on the Paris style, making it easy to explore the city. At its heart is Mont Royal peak delivering superb views of the city and the river beyond. Old Montreal is picturesque and full of character with some of the buildings dating back to the 1600s. Immerse yourself in the city’s French culture and expect the French language to be spoken and French cuisine to be served.

Day 9 – Flight Home

Another day to enjoy the city before an evening flight home to London Heathrow, arriving early morning the next day.