Why is the train so expensive in Canada?

Limited competition: In Canada, most long-distance train routes are operated by a single company, Via Rail. This lack of competition can make it difficult for travelers to find lower prices.



The high cost of rail travel in Canada, primarily through VIA Rail, is driven by a combination of geographic, economic, and structural factors. Unlike the densely populated corridors of Europe, Canada's rail network spans massive, sparsely populated distances, making the "per-kilometer" cost of maintaining infrastructure and service extremely high. Furthermore, VIA Rail operates on tracks primarily owned by freight companies like CN and CP, meaning passenger trains often face delays and must pay significant access fees. In late 2023, VIA Rail overhauled its reservation system, introducing more advanced yield management (dynamic pricing); this means that as a train fills up or the departure date nears, prices can skyrocket, sometimes making a short trip cost as much as a flight. Additionally, as a Crown Corporation, VIA Rail faces pressure to minimize government subsidies by maximizing revenue from passengers. While "Escape" fares offer some affordability if booked early, the lack of a high-speed dedicated rail line and the premium nature of long-haul sleeper services keep prices high for the average traveler.

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Our packages with The Canadian train start at $5,280 and include the train, your meals on the train, your hotels before and after the train tour, transfers to and from the airport or hotel, sightseeing tours and activities, and some additional meals.

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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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Many of the lines don't make any money or are operated at a loss. To accommodate the money-losing routes, Amtrak uses profits from its popular lines, such as the Northeast Corridor. Since this is one of the most popular routes, Amtrak can charge higher prices and send those profits to other, less profitable lines.

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Nowhere in Europe is the cost disparity between rail and air travel more pronounced than in the U.K., according to the research. Across the continent, trains are on average twice as expensive as flying, but in the U.K. they are four times more expensive, the research notes.

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Nowhere in Europe is the cost disparity between rail and air travel more pronounced than in the U.K., according to the research. Across the continent, trains are on average twice as expensive as flying, but in the U.K. they are four times more expensive, the research notes.

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Pair your meals with local wines, craft beers, or just a relaxing cup of tea—all beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are included. While onboard, you'll also be treated to morning and afternoon snacks.

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While most people would think that Summer is the best traveling season, in reality, the best time of year to take a train across the Canadian countryside is in the Fall or early Wintertime. This time of year offers cheaper hotels, fewer crowds, and beautiful weather.

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The Toronto to Vancouver sleeper train cost depends on the train class you select and the date you choose to travel. Fares for a cabin for two in Sleeper Plus Class start at approximately $2000 per person. Fares for Prestige Class cabins start at approximately $5000 per person.

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There are many scenic train rides in Canada, but The Canadian, i.e. the train between Toronto and Vancouver, offers the most varied landscapes. The most popular section of this train journey is the ride in the Rocky Mountains, before, during, and after the train's stop in Jasper.

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“Generally speaking, traveling by plane is faster and more convenient, but can be more expensive and stressful. On the other hand, traveling by train is usually cheaper and more comfortable, but can take much longer.”

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Though it lacks long distances, tiny Luxembourg was named cheapest for both train and bus routes owing to the country's decision to make public transport free in 2020.

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