Canada from Coast to Coast: An Epic Grand Journey Across a Nation of Wonders

There are few travel experiences that can match the sheer scale and splendour of a journey across Canada. From the windswept headlands of Newfoundland to the temperate rainforests of British Columbia, this transcontinental adventure unfolds like a series of living postcards - each destination revealing a different face of this vast and beautiful country.

Embarking on a journey across Canada is a dream for many travellers, but doing so with the guidance of Canadian Sky transforms it into a seamless, unforgettable experience. With 20 years of expertise in crafting bespoke itineraries, our knowledge of Canada’s cities, wilderness, and hidden gems ensures every moment is perfectly timed and every destination is experienced to its fullest. This guide has been crafted through the combined expertise of our company-wide team of specialists. Call to chat through your dream Canada holiday. 

1    Newfoundland
2    Nova Scotia, New Brunswick & Prince Edward Island
3    VIA Rail Ocean Train Halifax to Quebec City
4    Quebec City & Montreal
5    Eastern Rail Experience to Ottawa
6    Toronto & Niagara Falls
7    Manitoba - Winnipeg & the Polar Bears at Churchill
8    Calgary, Banff, Lake Louise & Jasper
9    Rocky Mountaineer rail journey
10    Vancouver, Victoria & Bear Encounters on Vancouver Island

St. John’s, Newfoundland - Where North America Begins
Amy Matthews – Senior Communications Manager

“Our Canadian odyssey begins where the continent itself rises from the sea - St. John’s on the island of Newfoundland. Perched on the edge of the Atlantic, this is North America’s easternmost city, and one of its most distinctive. The first thing you’ll notice are the ‘Jellybean Row’ houses - brightly painted wooden homes tumbling down the hillsides towards the harbour. Their candy-coloured facades reflect a community that celebrates both its rugged maritime heritage and its joyful individuality.
St. John’s is steeped in history. Wander along the waterfront, where fishing boats bob in the harbour that has been welcoming sailors for over 500 years. Visit Signal Hill, the site of the first transatlantic wireless transmission, and take in panoramic views of the city and coastline. Nearby Cape Spear marks the easternmost point of North America - a perfect place to watch the sunrise, or perhaps spot an iceberg drifting silently by in spring.
Local culture here has a charm all its own. Enjoy live folk music in one of George Street’s lively pubs, sample fresh cod or seafood chowder, and perhaps join in a traditional ‘screech-in’ ceremony -a uniquely Newfoundland welcome that ensures you leave an honorary local.”

Discover the beauty of Newfoundland on our Experience St. John's Newfoundland tour

Halifax and the Charms of Nova Scotia
Hazel Welsh, Senior Content Marketing Manager

“A short flight will take you to Halifax, the dynamic capital of Nova Scotia. Though modern and cosmopolitan, Halifax retains its maritime heart. The Harbourfront Boardwalk hums with life - lined with cafes, craft breweries, and museums such as the fascinating Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, where you’ll find poignant exhibits from the Titanic disaster. For panoramic views, climb the ramparts of the Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fortress that has guarded the city since the 18th century. Then relax with a glass of locally made Tidal Bay wine or a craft beer as you watch ships glide past in one of the world’s largest natural harbours.”

From Halifax, take a day to explore the South Shore, where the road winds through picturesque fishing villages and rugged coastline. The most famous stop is Peggy’s Cove, its iconic lighthouse perched atop wave-washed granite rocks, and its village is a cluster of quaint cottages and traditional lobster boats.
Continue to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. Stroll along the waterfront to admire the colourful wooden buildings, visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, and see the Bluenose II, a replica of Canada’s legendary racing schooner.”

Inland to Kejimkujik National Park
Kathryn Glover, Partnerships Marketing Director

“For a taste of the wild, venture inland to Keji (Kejimkujik) National Park, a tranquil sanctuary of forests, lakes, and rivers. Paddle a canoe across mirror-still waters, listen for the haunting call of the loon, and discover ancient Mi’kmaq petroglyphs carved into stone. It’s a serene contrast to the coast - a place where nature takes centre stage.”

Across the Bay of Fundy to New Brunswick

“From here, continue north to the harbour town of Digby and take the scenic ferry across the Bay of Fundy to Saint John, New Brunswick. The crossing offers a chance to spot seabirds and perhaps even whales in the nutrient-rich waters of the bay, home to the world’s highest tides. From Saint John, drive the stunning Fundy Trail Parkway - a ribbon of road hugging the rugged coastline, with sweeping viewpoints, secluded beaches, and forested footpaths leading to waterfalls and sea cliffs. Continue to the famous Hopewell Rocks, where the tides carve towering flowerpot-shaped formations from the red sandstone. Walk along the ocean floor at low tide, then return at high tide to see the same rocks almost submerged - a mesmerising display of nature’s power.”

Prince Edward Island - A Pastoral Gem

“From New Brunswick, cross the 13-kilometre long Confederation Bridge, an engineering marvel, onto the gentle landscapes of Prince Edward Island (PEI). The scenery here is softer and more pastoral: rolling green fields, red-sand beaches, and charming villages framed by white-painted churches. Follow the north coast to Cavendish, where fans of literature can visit Green Gables, the farmhouse that inspired L. M. Montgomery’s beloved Anne of Green Gables. Continue down to Charlottetown, the island’s capital, where the Canadian Confederation was born in 1864. The city’s waterfront and heritage buildings exude old-world charm, while local restaurants serve up the island’s famous mussels and fresh lobster. When it’s time to leave, board the ferry from Wood Islands back to Nova Scotia, sailing into the scenic highlands of Cape Breton Island.”

Cape Breton Island – Where mountains meet the sea
Hazel Welsh, Senior Content Marketing Manager

“No visit to Nova Scotia is complete without a trip to Cape Breton, an island of soaring cliffs, Gaelic heritage, and world-class scenery. The Cabot Trail, which loops around the island’s northern coast, offers some of the most spectacular drives in North America. The road winds through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where mountains plunge dramatically into the sea. Stop at lookouts, hike a forest trail, or sample fresh lobster in a seaside village.
Cape Breton’s cultural mix - Scottish, Acadian, and Mi’kmaq - is reflected in its music. You might hear fiddles and bagpipes at a local ceilidh, where the warmth of the island’s people shines through.”

Click here for our suggested self-drive tour of the region, and call to chat through how we can tailor-make this for you Self-Drive A Taste of the Maritimes

The Legendary Ocean Train from Halifax to Quebec City

Kathryn Glover, Partnerships Marketing Director

“From Halifax, your journey continues on one of Canada’s most scenic rail routes - The Ocean, a VIA Rail train linking Halifax and Montreal. Settle into your comfortable cabin and watch as the landscapes unfold: the tidal flats of the Bay of Fundy, the rolling farmlands of New Brunswick, and the river valleys of Quebec. Overnight on the train, lulled by the rhythm of the rails, and wake to views of the mighty St. Lawrence River. You’ll disembark in Quebec City, where old-world charm meets North American vitality.”

Quebec City - Old-World Elegance in the New World
Chris Hawkins, Programme Director

“Quebec City feels like a slice of Europe transported across the Atlantic. Its cobblestone streets, stone walls, and graceful architecture evoke centuries of French history and culture. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is divided into the Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville), linked by steep streets and funiculars.

At the heart of it all stands the grand Chateau Frontenac, one of the world’s most photographed hotels. Wander through Place Royale, where Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608, and along Rue du Petit-Champlain, lined with boutiques and cafes. Explore the Citadel and the Plains of Abraham, where the battle that shaped Canada’s destiny took place in 1759, then indulge in classic Quebecois cuisine,  perhaps poutine, tourtière, or maple-syrup desserts, paired with a glass of local cider.”

Montreal - Culture, Cuisine, and Creativity
Chris Hawkins, Programme Director

"A comfortable train ride brings you to Montreal, Canada’s cultural capital. This bilingual metropolis blends French flair with international energy. The Old Port is a lively area of cobbled streets, galleries, and restaurants housed in elegant stone buildings. Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, famed for its dramatic blue interior, and take a stroll up Mount Royal, the hill that gave the city its name, for a breathtaking panorama.

Montreal thrives on creativity. Explore the Plateau neighbourhood with its murals and trendy cafes, or the Jean-Talon Market, bursting with local produce. In the evening, savour a multi-course meal at one of the city’s world-class restaurants, or catch a live performance - jazz, circus, or theatre - in one of its many venues.”

The train is a great way to explore eastern canada and here is a suggested itinerary - Eastern Rail Experience - call to discuss how we can tailor-make this for you.

Ottawa - The Nation’s Capital
Alan Facer, Senior Canada Specialist

“Take the train west to Ottawa, Canada’s capital. This city gracefully balances stately institutions with natural beauty. The Parliament Buildings dominate Parliament Hill, where the Changing of the Guard and evening light shows bring the neo-Gothic architecture to life. Visit the National Gallery of Canada, home to an outstanding collection of Indigenous, Canadian, and international art.

Enjoy a walk or cycle along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In summer, boats glide between locks; in winter, the frozen canal transforms into the world’s longest skating rink. Across the river, Gatineau Park offers tranquil trails and scenic viewpoints, perfect for an afternoon escape.”

Toronto - Canada’s Urban Heartbeat
Stephanie Bowell, Senior Canada Specialist

“The train journey continues to Toronto, a vibrant metropolis and the country’s largest city. Toronto’s skyline, crowned by the CN Tower, rises beside Lake Ontario, reflecting the city’s modern confidence.Spend a morning exploring the Distillery District, a beautifully restored collection of Victorian industrial buildings now filled with galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Visit St. Lawrence Market, one of the world’s great food markets, where local vendors offer everything from artisan cheeses to butter tarts, a regional speciality.

Art lovers should not miss the Art Gallery of Ontario or the Royal Ontario Museum, while sports enthusiasts might catch a baseball or ice-hockey game. Toronto’s neighbourhoods each have their own personality - from the bohemian Kensington Market to elegant Yorkville and the multicultural Greektown and Chinatown.”

A Day Trip to Niagara Falls
Rachel McAnaspie, Senior Canada Specialist

“Just 90 minutes from Toronto lies one of the world’s great natural spectacles - Niagara Falls. The sheer power of the water as it thunders over the Horseshoe Falls is awe-inspiring. Take a boat cruise to feel the mist on your face, or enjoy the view from above on the Skylon Tower. Nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a gentler pace, with its wineries and charming boutiques.”

Book your epic journey now: Experience Toronto, Niagara Falls and Ottawa by Rail

Toronto to Winnipeg - Gateway to the Prairies
Chris Hawkins, Programme Director

“A flight west from Toronto lands in Winnipeg, the lively capital of Manitoba and a gateway to Canada’s prairie heart. Often called the “cultural cradle of the prairies,” Winnipeg combines history, art, and cosmopolitan flair in a surprisingly compact city.
Start your exploration in The Forks, where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet. This historic trading site has evolved into a vibrant hub of markets, cafes, and cultural attractions. Stroll along the riverfront, sample locally made cheeses or maple treats, and admire public art installations that pay homage to Manitoba’s Indigenous and Metis heritage.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is an architectural marvel offering moving exhibitions on the struggle for human rights around the world. Meanwhile, Exchange District charms visitors with cobblestone streets, early 20th-century architecture, and galleries showcasing contemporary art.”

Churchill - The Arctic Wildlife Capital
Jade Pearson, Senior Canada Specialist

“The next stage is an incredible remote outpost, Churchill, a tiny community on the western shores of Hudson Bay. Accessible only by air or train (the road stops 1000km short!) Churchill is famous worldwide as a front-row seat to some of the Arctic’s most remarkable wildlife phenomena. Depending on the season, travellers can witness polar bears, beluga whales, or the northern lights-each offering an unforgettable spectacle.
Churchill is often called the Polar Bear Capital of the World, and with good reason. As October and November approach, the bears congregate along the coast, preparing for the sea ice and the hunt for seals. Guided tundra vehicle tours allow visitors to observe these majestic creatures safely from a short distance. The thrill of seeing a polar bear in its natural habitat is matched by the stark beauty of the surrounding tundra.”

Call to talk to Jade about your perfect polar bear adventure Polar Bear Churchill and Tundra Experience

Encounters with Bears, Whales and the Aurora
Kathryn Glover, Partnerships Marketing Director

“Summer brings a very different side of Churchill’s wildlife. From mid-July to August, the waters of Hudson Bay teem with beluga whales, as hundreds of these friendly, white whales gather in Churchill’s estuary to feed and calve. Boat tours and kayaking excursions offer the chance to see them up close - pods of curious whales often swim alongside vessels, their distinctive singing voices echoing beneath the surface. You might even be lucky enough to spot a polar bear sunning itself on the rocks.

In late winter, Churchill becomes a prime destination for the aurora borealis. February and March offer long, dark nights with clear skies, providing ideal conditions to witness the shimmering green, purple, and red ribbons of the northern lights.”

A once-in-a-lifetime adventure is yours with our Birds, Bears and Belugas tour

The Western Adventure -From Calgary to the Pacific
Kevin Ryan, Senior Canada Specialist

“Your journey now leaps westward as you fly to Calgary - gateway to the Canadian Rockies. The landscape shifts dramatically: prairies stretch to the horizon, and in the distance, the jagged peaks of the mountains emerge.
Spend a night in Calgary, exploring its vibrant downtown and riverside paths. Visit the Calgary Tower for panoramic views, and enjoy dinner in the lively Stephen Avenue district. Calgary’s mix of cowboy heritage and modern vibrancy sets the tone for the adventure ahead.”

Banff & Lake Louise - The Jewel of the Rockies
Holly Reid, Senior Canada Specialist

“A short drive takes you into Banff National Park, Canada’s first and perhaps most famous national park. The town of Banff sits amid towering peaks, with every street offering postcard views.
Stroll along Banff Avenue, browse the galleries and boutiques, or relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, where naturally heated mineral waters bubble up against a mountain backdrop. Ride the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for breathtaking vistas, or explore nearby Bow Falls and Tunnel Mountain trails.

Just 45 minutes from Banff lies Lake Louise, one of the world’s most photographed lakes. Its turquoise waters, framed by snow-capped peaks and the Victoria Glacier, seem almost unreal. Stay at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (in a lakeview room naturally), where you can watch dawn break over the water from your window. Take a gentle walk along the lake’s edge, or for a more adventurous outing, hike up to Lake Agnes Tea House, perched high above with stunning views below. In summer, the wildflowers are glorious; in autumn, golden larches glow against the mountain slopes.

Jasper - Wild Beauty and Tranquillity
Chris Hawkins, Programme Director

“From Lake Louise, follow the legendary Icefields Parkway north to Jasper, a drive often described as one of the most beautiful in the world. Along the way, stop at the Columbia Icefield, where you can walk on the Athabasca Glacier or admire the vast expanse from the Skywalk viewpoint suspended above the valley.
Jasper National Park feels wilder and more remote than Banff. Here, elk and occasionally black bears wander through town and the night skies blaze with stars. Visit Maligne Lake, take a cruise to the ethereal Spirit Island, or enjoy the serenity of Pyramid Lake. The pace is unhurried - perfect for soaking in the grandeur of nature.”

The Rocky Mountaineer - A Train Journey Through the Clouds
Brendan White, Senior Canada Specialist

“From Jasper, board the legendary Rocky Mountaineer, one of the world’s great train journeys. Over two days, this luxury train carries you through mountain passes, alongside rushing rivers, and past soaring cliffs and waterfalls. Glass-domed carriages ensure uninterrupted views, while impeccable service and fine dining enhance the experience.

An overnight stay in Kamloops breaks the journey, then the train descends through fertile valleys towards the Pacific coast. As the landscape softens and evergreens thicken, anticipation builds for your arrival in Vancouver.”

This is one of our most popular holiday's for good reason - Canadian Rockies at Leisure plus Rocky Mountaineer - call today to take advantage of our great special offers.

Vancouver - The Pacific Gem
Jenn Hillyar, Senior Canada Specialist

“Vancouver is a city where urban sophistication meets outdoor adventure. Nestled between mountains and ocean, it’s endlessly photogenic. Spend your day exploring Stanley Park, cycling the Seawall, and visiting Granville Island Market for artisanal food and crafts.
Downtown, the glass towers reflect the surrounding peaks, while neighbourhoods like Gastown and Yaletown blend heritage with style. As evening falls, enjoy fresh Pacific seafood at a waterfront restaurant, watching the sunset over English Bay.”

Book now: Experience Vancouver

Victoria, BC - Gardens, Harbour Views and Coastal Charm
Kevin Ryan, Senior Canada Specialist

“From Vancouver, a scenic ferry crossing through the Gulf Islands leads to Victoria, the elegant capital of British Columbia. Set on Vancouver Island, Victoria exudes old-world charm and garden-city beauty. The Inner Harbour is the heart of the city, framed by the stately Fairmont Empress Hotel and the grand Parliament Buildings. Take afternoon tea at the Empress, then explore the Royal BC Museum, whose immersive exhibits trace the province’s natural and cultural history.

Other highlights around Greater Victoria include the Butchart Gardens, a horticultural masterpiece of blooming terraces, fountains and fragrant pathways, and the striking Malahat Skyway for breathtaking views of the Saanich Peninsula and Gulf Islands”

Discover this incredible region with our Encounter BC - Vancouver and Victoria tour

Coastal Drives and Grizzly Encounters on Vancouver Island
Alan Facer, Senior Canada Specialist

“The final leg of this Canadian adventure takes you on a scenic drive upwards through Vancouver Island, where the landscapes shift from lush forests and rugged coastlines to remote wilderness. Travel along winding coastal roads to Tofino, a haven of wild beaches, surfing spots, and old-growth rainforests. Continue north to Campbell River, the “Salmon Capital of the World,” where riverbanks teem with wildlife and the surrounding mountains offer hiking and kayaking opportunities. From there, venture into the pristine wilderness of Knight Inlet for an unforgettable bear-watching experience. Staying in a lodge tucked into the inlet’s secluded shores, you’ll observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat, fishing along the riverbanks and roaming the forested edges - a perfect, immersive finale to your journey.”

Sensational wildlife sightings are yours with Bear and Wildlife Watching at Knight Inlet

Other holidays suggestions:

The Ultimate Tour of Eastern Canada

The Ultimate Tour of Western Canada