Trains offer a stress-free, comfortable and scenic way to explore Canada. And while train travel isn’t as easy or cheap as flying, there are many ways to get great value from VIA Rail tickets with a little planning and flexibility.
VIA Rail is a Canadian train operator that serves eight provinces and territories. They run five trains that have no counterpart on Amtrak and serve a mix of railfans, adventurous tourists and people from remote areas in parts of the country not well-served by other transportation modes.
There are a lot of routes and fare types to choose from, including Economy, Business, Sleeper Plus and Prestige class. VIA’s cheapest fare is their Economy option, which offers airline-style reclining seats and meals on the most popular routes. Business fares add more spacious seating and lounge access. Sleeper Plus fares allow you to sleep in a private room, while Prestige classes offer first-class service with a room and a bed, but at a much more expensive price tag.
The best way to save money on a VIA Rail ticket is by booking early. As VIA’s website explains, booking more than 11 months in advance can reduce the cost of your trip by up to 25%.
Besides booking early, you can also find good deals Canada Rail Vacations on certain routes by waiting for VIA’s Discount Tuesday sale, which is offered each week. The train company has also been known to run special promotions or discounts during the holidays.
When you book online, you can select different dates and travel options to get the cheapest possible price. You can even include a stopover on some routes, which is useful for those who want to see more of the country but don’t have time to go all the way across it.
A note on pricing: Be aware that there are some Escape fares available only through the website and are non-refundable or changeable. These fares are generally cheaper than regular economy tickets, but be sure you read the fine print before purchasing.
One last thing to keep in mind: Some VIA Rail routes have limited availability, especially if you’re travelling on a weekend. If you’re planning to take the train on a popular route, it’s worth checking out the availability on the train company’s website to make sure you can secure a seat.
VIA Rail is an official partner of Wanderu, making it easy to search and compare routes and prices effortlessly. With more than 410 stations in eight provinces, you’ll be able to get your dream train adventure underway quickly and easily.
Ready to take the next step in planning your VIA Rail journey? Get started by searching all available routes and comparing departure dates on Wanderu. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to be the first to hear about the best deals and latest news from the world of train travel!