Eastern Canada Rail Expedition

11 Nights

Iceland and Eastern Canada Rail Experience

Iceland and Eastern Canada Rail Expedition: Exploring Scenic Landscapes and Vibrant Cities by Rail

28
£2,279pp

Explore Reykjavik and discover the wonders of the Golden Circle and the unique offerings of Iceland. Afterwards, embark on an enthralling journey along a historic rail route that commences in the vibrant maritime hub of Halifax. Traverse through Quebec and Ontario, following the majestic St. Lawrence River into the abundant Great Lakes region. Quebec City seamlessly blends modernity with traditional Quebecois culture, boasting art, exquisite cuisine, and renowned hospitality. Delve into the history of Montreal, one of Canada's foundational cities, shaped by the railway, steel, and manufacturing giants of the colonial era. Conclude your adventure with a stay in Toronto, where dynamic urban vibes effortlessly blend cultural influences from around the globe.

Day 1-3 Reykjavik

Commence your journey with a three-night sojourn in Reykjavik, the northernmost capital. During your stay, delve into the wonders of Iceland's South Shore and embark on a captivating tour of the Golden Circle. Marvel at erupting geysers, admire cascading waterfalls and witness the convergence of tectonic plates. Subsequently, set forth towards Canada to continue your adventure.

Day 4 Halifax

On day four, depart from Reykjavik for a brief flight to Halifax. Independently transfer to your downtown hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Consider exploring the local culinary delights at one of the numerous waterfront restaurants and eateries.

Day 5 Halifax

Take a whole day to independently discover Halifax's rich maritime heritage. As a hub for East Coast arts and culture, the city showcases galleries and local artists who beautifully depict the essence of Canadian Maritimes life. Consider exploring the meticulously restored Historic Properties, the 18th-century Citadel that has stood as a guardian of the city, and the charming Public Gardens, or opt for a day cruise around the harbour for a scenic oceanside view of the city.

Day 6 VIA RAIL/The Ocean - Halifax to Quebec City

On day six, stroll from your hotel to the Halifax rail station. Board VIA Rail’s The Ocean in the early afternoon (13:00) for your railway adventure to Quebec City via Sainte-Foy. Savour a delightful lunch as you traverse Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, passing through the scenic hills of the Baie des Chaleurs. As the evening unfolds, enjoy the elongated shadows cast over the landscape while relishing a sumptuous on-board dinner. The gentle rock and sway of the train set the stage for a tranquil night's sleep on your overnight journey. Stay in a cabin for two on board VIA Rail, where your private space boasts a roomy sofa for daytime relaxation, transforming into two retractable stacked beds for the night, complemented by a private bathroom.

Day 7 Quebec City

Witness the sunrise as you trace the shores of the majestic St. Lawrence River, reaching Quebec City where you disembark to commence the next phase of your holiday. Make your way independently to your hotel, check in, and then immerse yourself in the allure of this historic city that captivates thousands of visitors annually. Take the day to explore renowned destinations and attractions like the Latin Quarter, the Plains of Abraham, the Fortifications, the National Assembly, Place Royale, or the Basilica.

Day 8 Quebec City to Montreal

On day eight, embark on VIA Rail’s Corridor service towards Montreal, tracing the scenic shoreline of Canada’s busiest waterway, the St. Lawrence River. Arrive in the vibrant metropolis of Montreal, the second-largest French-speaking urban centre after Paris, celebrated for its passion for music, art, and hospitality. Stroll along the bustling St. Catherine Street, teeming with shops and cafes, or, as the sun sets, indulge in exquisite cuisine at one of the numerous restaurants and perhaps catch a lively jazz performance at a local club.

Day 9 Montreal

Today, seize the entire day to uncover the charms of Montreal. Opt for a guided walking tour through Old Montreal, venturing off the conventional path to immerse yourself in the economic vibrancy of the city during the 19th century and witness its contemporary dynamics. Explore notable landmarks such as the exterior of Notre-Dame Basilica, Place d'Armes, St-Jacques Street and its banks, McGill Street, Place d'Youville, Place Royale, and more. Consider adding a unique touch to your experience by boarding the Cavalier Maxim, where you can discover Montreal from a fresh perspective, guided by the tales of the renowned explorer, Paul Chomedey de Maisonneuve. Alternatively, embrace the city's cycling culture by renting a bike and pedaling through Montreal. Make the most of the sunny terraces, relax, and soak in the panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Day 10 Montreal to Toronto

Embark on the final leg of your rail adventure, journeying through the quaint townships and communities of Quebec and Ontario, heading toward Canada's largest city, Toronto. Once you arrive, complete your check-in at the hotel and spend the rest of the evening either indulging in the amenities offered by your accommodation or exploring one of the city's numerous restaurants and nightspots.

Day 11 Toronto

On the final day of your journey, you have the option to spend the day exploring Toronto by utilizing the hop-on-hop-off bus, visiting popular attractions such as the Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma, CN Tower, Hockey Hall of Fame, The Distillery Historic District, Toronto’s Harbourfront, Eaton Centre, Bloor-Yorkville Village, Chinatown, St. Lawrence Market, Entertainment District, and the Bata Shoe Museum. Alternatively, you can choose a full-day excursion to Niagara Falls, one of Canada’s most spectacular sights. The route to Niagara takes you through the towns of Hamilton, known as "the steel capital of Canada," St. Catharines, recognized as "the fruit basket of Ontario," and the wine region of the Niagara Peninsula. Ample time will be allocated at the falls, allowing opportunities for photography, exploration of attractions, and appreciation of the thundering waters. Additional highlights include a scenic trip along the beautiful Niagara Parkway, winding through the Niagara Gorge and passing through the historic town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Day 12 Depart

Today you’ll check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your home flight.

Included:

- Three nights at Centerhotel Klopp (or similar), Reykjavik
- Two nights at The Westin Nova Scotian (or similar), Halifax
- One night in a two-person Cabin on board Via Rail’s The Ocean (overnight from Halifax to Quebec City) with Breakfast/Lunch/dinner included
- One night at Hotel Manoir Victoria (or similar), Quebec City
- Two nights at Hotel Novotel Montreal Centre (or similar), Montreal
- Two nights at Sheraton Centre Toronto (or similar), Toronto
- VIA Rail’s The Corridor (Economy class) rail ticket from Quebec City to Montreal and Montreal to Toronto
- A classic Golden Circle Tour in Iceland
- Flights are included from your selected airport to Reykjavik, Iceland returning from Toronto, Canada via Iceland.
- Direct Flights from Reykjavik to Halifax, Canada
- One piece of hand luggage per person included
- One piece of hold luggage per person included
- Shared airport transfers in Reykjavik
- Shared transfers from Toronto Hotel to Toronto Airport.

Travel Details:
From London Heathrow with Icelandair:

Outbound from London Heathrow to Reykjavik:
departing between 07.30 and 21.25, arriving between 09.45 and 23.40

Internal Flight from Reykjavik to Halifax:
departing at 18.35, arriving at 20.30.

Inbound Flight from Toronto to London Heathrow via Reykjavik:
departing between 21.00 and 23.10, arriving between 11.55 and 20.20 (following day)