Eastern Canada by Rail

Welcome to Canada! Your adventure begins in Toronto – the capital of Ontario along the lake’s northwestern shore. With soaring skyscrapers, this metropolis is known for the free-standing CN Tower, its green spaces and its sports culture. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight at your hotel to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. After, maybe head out for dinner with your group and get to know each other.

Today you’ll take a day trip to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. Part of the UNESCO-listed Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve, the falls are also one of the honorary Natural Wonders of the World, straddling both Canada and the United States across three massive cascades. You’ll take an orientation tour with your leader, then you have free time to take on one of the optional cruises on offer. Feel the mist of the falls on your face, then this afternoon, head to a wine tasting in Niagara-on-the-Lake – this town on the Niagara Peninsula is home to some excellent wineries. Later, return to Toronto for the night.

This morning, head out for an orientation walk of Toronto with your local leader, seeing some of the sites you may not have seen yet. Then, you’ll hop on the train to the small town of Gananoque – home to the Thousand Islands, known as the ‘Garden of the Great Spirit’ by the Iroquois Nation. Straddling the border, this archipelago sits at the outlet of Lake Ontario at the head of Saint Lawrence River. When you arrive, you have a free afternoon to relax or explore at your own pace. Maybe explore the parkway, visit the 1000 Islands History Museum or head to a theatre show at the Thousand Islands Playhouse.

Set out on a cruise through the Thousand Islands this morning and learn about this area’s history, wars and rebellions. Referred to by the Iroquois Nation as the Garden of the Great Spirit, see the 5th and 6th-generation family cottages as you cruise through the narrow channels to the Admiralty and Navy groups of islands, soaking up the scenery. This afternoon, transfer by taxi to the Brockville station and take the train to Ottawa, Canada’s capital. When you arrive, you’re free to explore the city’s restaurant and bar scene – your leader will always have some great recommendations!

Set out on an e-bike tour of Ottawa. This city is a great spot to explore on two wheels, home to many bike paths through both the city centre and through nature, so you’ll spend half the day exploring downtown, both on foot and by electric bike. Visit Gatineau Park – this park focuses on conservation and is the largest green space in the region, occupying an area of over 362 sq km. A favourite for nature-lovers, this huge space celebrates its biodiversity, and you can look out for bats, frogs, raccoons, squirrels and even black bears (when the season’s right). After, you have a free afternoon to relax or visit one of the city’s 29 museums.

Today you’ll take a train to Quebec City – the largest province in Canada known for its French-speakers, European architecture, narrow streets and the Saint Lawrence River on which it sits. This is a bit of a long travel day, so soak up the views along the way, get stuck into a good book or play card games with your fellow travellers. When you arrive, you’re free to explore the city at your own pace. Maybe walk the cobblestone streets in the evening and find a warmly lit bistro for dinner or head to a comedy show.

Head out on a walking tour of Quebec City this morning with a local guide and get to know more about the city and its culture. Head to the popular chain BeaverTails and tuck into a delicious local pastry, then hop on The Old Quebec Funicular – a historic railway connecting the Upper and Lower Town, offering views across the city. The main entrance of the funicular is the House Louis Jolliet, in the heart of Old Quebec, which was built in 1683! This afternoon is free to explore this charming city however you like.

This morning you’ll take a private vehicle to Ile d’Orleans for a daytrip – this island and heritage site in the Saint Lawrence River was one of the first places in the province to be colonised by the French and has been described as ‘the microcosm of traditional Quebec.’ When you arrive, you’ll explore with your leader, then head to a local spot for some classic poutine (fries and cheese curds covered in brown gravy). When you’re justifiably full of carbs, you’ll head to the gorgeous Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier for a hike. This park is home to one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in Quebec, the Vallee de la Jacques-Cartier. Look out for moose and beavers as you walk through the scenic landscape, then later, return to Quebec City.

Take the train to Montreal – the largest city in the province of Quebec named after Mt. Royal, the triple-peaked hill at its centre. The neighbourhoods here all offer unique draw cards, with French cobblestone streets and bohemian vibes. When you arrive, you’ll head out for an orientation walk to get your bearings. Known for its rich cultural history, art, theatre and music, there is plenty to explore here with your free afternoon and evening. If in doubt – just ask your handy local leader! Tonight, maybe join your group for dinner and toast to an excellent Canadian exploration.

With no further activities planned after breakfast today, your trip comes to an end and you’re free to leave at any time after check-out.