What is the experience like on Rocky Mountaineer?

Rocky Mountaineer offers relaxed, scenic train journeys between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies. You travel during daylight hours in a glass-dome coach, and enjoy panoramic views, commentary by onboard hosts, world-class hospitality, and gourmet meals. You’ll stay overnight at hotels, then reboard the train the next morning.

What are the different service levels on Rocky Mountaineer?

There are two service levels on Rocky Mountaineer: SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf. SilverLeaf offers spacious seats next to large windows in a single-level glass-dome coach, and meals are served at your seat. There is a small outdoor viewing area between train coaches. GoldLeaf includes travel in a bi-level glass-dome coach, where seating is on the upper level, and a dining room is on the lower level. There are more food choices on the menu, and an exclusive outdoor viewing platform so you can get closer to the scenery.

Are meals included on Rocky Mountaineer?

Yes, multi-course breakfasts and lunches are included onboard Rocky Mountaineer in SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf service levels. Snacks, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages are also included. You’ll enjoy locally inspired cuisine as well as local wines and beers. Dietary requirements can be accommodated by Rocky Mountaineer with advance notice, so make sure you mention any allergies or requests at the time of booking.

Do I need travel insurance for my Canadian Rockies train trip?

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your Canadian Rockies train trip. It protects your investment and provides peace of mind in case of delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost baggage. We partner with a trusted travel insurance provider and can recommend options based on your trip. Please ask your Vacation Advisor for more details at the time of booking.

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Vancouver and Banff Getaway

Length

4 days / 3 nights

Time on train

2 days

Train type

Rocky Mountaineer

Destinations

When to go

April – October

Price from

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Our no-fuss packages make exploring the Canadian Rockies easy

Experience Canada's most scenic train routes
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Overview

FAQs

Itinerary

Dates

Prices

Accommodations

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4-day train trip from Vancouver to Banff

Discover the history of the Canadian Pacific Railway on an incredible Rocky Mountaineer rail journey from Vancouver to Banff. Travel on the most famous, historic section of the railway — Rocky Mountaineer is the only passenger train to travel this iconic route — and admire stunning scenery at every turn. Overnight stays at each destination ensure that you feel well rested and ready for another day of adventure.

Route map for Vancouver and Banff Getaway

Highlights of your trip

Travel on a historic rail route through dramatic canyons, valleys, and mountains
Wind through the Spiral Tunnels, an engineering marvel in Kicking Horse Pass National Historic Site
Spot the striking peaks of Castle Mountain, located between Lake Louise and Banff
Enjoy an overnight stay in the heart of Banff National Park

Top experiences and features

Rocky Mountaineer train going through Banff National park with mountains

Admire the epic scenery between Lake Louise and Banff

An iconic moment on this historic railway route is when the train winds round Morant's Curve, providing excellent views of the Bow River.

A guest taking a photo of the scenery from the GoldLeaf outdoor viewing platform of the Rocky Mountaineer train

Discover Castle Mountain in Banff National Park

Named after its castle-like appearance, Castle Mountain is one of the most famous peaks in the Canadian Rockies. Head to the train's outdoor viewing area to get the perfect photo!

Onboard Host speaks about the scenery from GoldLeaf dome on the Rocky Mountaineer Train

Hear stories of the Rockies from your train hosts

Rocky Mountaineer's friendly staff entertain you along the way, pointing out the top sights and providing commentary about the history and wildlife.

A close up of a meal cart loaded with dishes of Salmon.

Enjoy regional cuisine onboard Rocky Mountaineer

Delicious, multi-course breakfasts, lunches, and snacks are served on the train. Each dish is crafted with local ingredients — like BC salmon or Alberta beef — and reflects the regions the train travels through.

Series of shops next to Banff Avenue and Caribou Street in the town of Banff, Alberta

Explore the lively town of Banff in the Canadian Rockies

Pick up a souvenir from one of the many gift shops, grab a drink and some Canadian food at a cozy eatery, or simply take in the mountain views as you walk along Banff Avenue.

Long exposure shot of Gastown steam clock at night

Spend an evening in the beautiful city of Vancouver

Stroll the streets of downtown Vancouver and the waterfront area, before treating yourself to a delicious dinner at one of the city's excellent restaurants.

Your Questions Answered

Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. We are here to help.

What’s Included

Rocky Mountaineer daylight train journey
Gratuities for Rocky Mountaineer
Meals onboard the train
Hotel accommodation
Train station transfers
Electronic travel documentation package

Frequently Asked Questions

Sample Itinerary

Indicates featured inclusions

Day 01

Arrive in Vancouver

Welcome to Vancouver! This west coast city on the mainland of British Columbia is surrounded by stunning scenery — towering mountains, temperate rainforest, and the Pacific Ocean.

Day 02

Rocky Mountaineer Train - Vancouver to Kamloops

Bright and early this morning, board the Rocky Mountaineer in Vancouver and begin your journey north. Travel through the lush Fraser Valley, then pass the Coast Mountains, the powerful Fraser River and Hell’s Gate. See how the landscape becomes more arid as you approach British Columbia’s interior and the city of Kamloops.

Motorcoach Transfer to Train Station

Rocky Mountaineer Train Service

Day 03

Rocky Mountaineer Train - Kamloops to Banff

Your second day onboard Rocky Mountaineer begins! Depart the ranchlands of British Columbia and continue your journey towards the beautiful Canadian Rockies. Discover the history of the Canadian Pacific Railway as you pass Craigellachie, where the last spike was driven, and go through the remarkable Spiral Tunnels, an engineering marvel.

Motorcoach Transfer to Hotel

Day 04

Depart from Banff

Your Canadian Rockies train vacation ends today as you depart from Banff. Return home with amazing memories of your time in Canada.

Sample Itinerary

Indicates featured inclusions

Day 1

Arrive in Vancouver...

Arrive in Vancouver

Day 2

Rocky Mountaineer T...

Rocky Mountaineer Train - Vancouver to Kamlo...

Day 3

Rocky Mountaineer T...

Rocky Mountaineer Train - Kamloops to Banff

Day 4

Depart from Banff

Arrive in Vancouver

Welcome to Vancouver! This west coast city on the mainland of British Columbia is surrounded by stunning scenery — towering mountains, temperate rainforest, and the Pacific Ocean.

Rocky Mountaineer Train - Vancouver to Kamloops

Motorcoach Transfer to Train Station

Rocky Mountaineer Train Service

Rocky Mountaineer Train - Kamloops to Banff

Motorcoach Transfer to Hotel

Depart from Banff

Your Canadian Rockies train vacation ends today as you depart from Banff. Return home with amazing memories of your time in Canada.

Scheduled Departure Dates

Our itineraries are planned around train-service schedules. Ask one of our Canadian Rockies experts about available dates.

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August 2026

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Scheduled departures

No scheduled departures

Prices

Prices vary by departure date, train-service level and hotel class. Prices shown are our lowest rates per person, based on double occupancy, and exclude taxes.

Classic

Hotel Accommodation

3 to 3.5 Stars

Rocky Mountaineer Train Service

SilverLeaf

From

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Premium

Hotel Accommodation

4 to 4.5 Stars

Rocky Mountaineer Train Service

GoldLeaf

From

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Accommodations

These are examples of the places you can stay on this trip. Please get in touch to discuss your options and to check availability.

Banff Ptarmigan Inn

Example of a 3-star hotel in Banff

Banff Ptarmigan Inn is steps away from the shops, restaurants, and attractions in Banff town centre. The property offers comfortable guest rooms, indoor hot pools, a steam room and sauna, plus a complimentary ROAM bus pass.

A panoramic view of a cloudy sunrise over mountains and forest by the Banff Springs Hotel.

Fairmont Banff Springs

Example of a 4-star hotel in Banff

Known as the "Castle in the Rockies," the Fairmont Banff Springs is an iconic landmark in Banff National Park, just one kilometre away from Banff town centre. The luxury, chateau-style hotel has multiple on-site bars and restaurants, an outdoor pool, spa, fitness centre, and more.

Pan Pacific Hotel towers over Vancouver harbour. A cruise ship is docked nearby.

Pan Pacific Vancouver

Example of a 5-star hotel in Vancouver

One of Vancouver's iconic landmarks, the Pan Pacific Hotel provides guests with a waterfront retreat in the heart of the city. Amenities include a heated outdoor salt-water pool, on-site restaurants, and a fitness centre.