Eastern Canada by Rail

Welcome to Canada! Your adventure begins in Toronto – the capital of Ontario, set along the lake’s northwestern shore. With soaring skyscrapers, this metropolis is known for the freestanding 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.

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Today you’ll take the train 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 hop on a boat to get closer to the thundering cataract – cruise past the American and Bridal Veil Falls and into the mist of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. After, have some more free time, then head back by train to Toronto in the late afternoon.

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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 and 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 St 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.

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Set out on a cruise through the Thousand Islands this morning and learn about this area’s history, wars and rebellions. You’ll see fifth- and sixth-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 Brockville station and take the train to Ottawa, Canada’s capital. Arrive at Ottawa station, then transfer by local light rail to your hotel. Once settled, you’re free to explore the city’s restaurant and bar scene – your leader will always have some great recommendations!

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Get pedalling (with some electric help) on an e-bike tour of Ottawa. You’ll spend half the day exploring the city centre and green spaces both on foot and on two wheels along the extensive bike paths. 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 (140 sq mi). A favourite for nature-lovers, this huge park 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.

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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 St 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.

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This morning, you’ll head out on a daytrip to Ile d’Orleans – this island and National Historic Site in the middle of the St 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). Then, head to Wendake to join an Indigenous guide on a tour of the Huron-Wendat museum and Ekionkiestha’ longhouse, gaining insight into Wendat traditions, art and way of life. Later, return to Quebec City for the night.

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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.

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Today, 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, take the subway to your hotel before heading 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.

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With no further activities planned after breakfast today, your trip comes to an end and you’re free to leave at any time after checkout. If you’d like to stay longer, just speak with your booking agent ahead of time.