What is the most luxury train in Canada?

The Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf and VIA Rail Prestige class are two popular luxury train services and our Canadian Insiders can help you book the right service level for you.



The title for the most luxury train in Canada in 2026 is a tie between the Rocky Mountaineer (GoldLeaf Service) and VIA Rail’s The Canadian (Prestige Class), depending on your travel style. The Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight-only sightseeing train featuring bi-level glass-dome coaches and gourmet dining; it is arguably the most luxurious way to see the Rockies, but you stay in high-end hotels overnight. For a true sleeper experience, VIA Rail’s Prestige Class is the gold standard, offering private cabins that are 50% larger than standard sleepers, featuring a full en-suite bathroom with shower, a flat-screen TV, and a leather sofa that converts into a double bed. Prestige guests also enjoy a dedicated concierge and all-inclusive premium alcohol. In 2026, these "land cruises" are highly sought after, often requiring bookings a year in advance for the peak summer and autumn seasons.

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Train holidays with VIA Rail are a more economical way to experience Canada. Unlike the Rocky Mountaineer which offers daylight only services, the VIA Rail trains operate throughout the day and night getting you to your destination sooner.

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To recap, here's a list of the most luxurious trains in the world:
  • Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
  • Palace on Wheels.
  • Eastern & Oriental Express.
  • The Deccan Odyssey.
  • The Flying Scotsman.
  • Golden Chariot.
  • Belmond Royal Scotsman.
  • Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express.


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Which is the most luxurious train in the world? Considered to be one of the most luxurious trains not only in India but in the entire world, The Maharajas' Express is your ticket to a whimsical world of royal luxury and exclusive experiences.

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Go international onboard the Maple Leaf from New York City to Canada's equally urban metropolis, Toronto.

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The best time of year to ride the Rocky Mountaineer depends on what you want to see. Late September is the best time if you want to view stunning fall foliage, while May is the best time to avoid summer crowds.

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Does Rocky Mountaineer have sleeper cars? No. Our daylight rail journeys through the Canadian Rockies and American Southwest are scheduled to show guests all of the scenery. We offer packages with hotel accommodation options pre- and post- your rail journey, and all include accommodation in the mid-point destination.

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Elegance on the line – the world's most expensive trains
  • Maharajas' Express, India – $3,385 per night. ...
  • Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, Russia – $2,142 per night. ...
  • Royal Scotsman – $2,126 per night. ...
  • Rovos Rail Pride of Africa, South Africa – $2,075 per night. ...
  • Venice Simplon Orient Express, Europe – $1,900 per night.


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Luckily, Canadian train trips cross most of it, and the journeys allow you to take in some of the world's most spectacular scenery, stress-free. Some of the country's most remote—and beautiful—spots lack road access, so a train ride may also be the only way to visit.

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Shower amenities are provided in your cabin (towels, shampoo and soap).

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The whole journey takes 4 nights and the train consists of the original stainless-steel coaches built for the Canadian Pacific Railway's Canadian in 1954-55.

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