Grand Tour of Canada & the Rocky Mountaineer
Grand Tour of Canada & the Rocky Mountaineer
Grand Tour of Canada & the Rocky Mountaineer
17 Days Starting and ending in United Kingdom
Visiting: Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Banff, Kamloops, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler
Tour operator:
Tour code:
UGTRM3
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
15 - 35
Physical rating:
Low
Age range:
18-99
Special diets catered:
Please advise requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
If you want to see Canada’s must-see highlights on one incredible, all-encompassing trip, this is the tour for you! Travelling across the country from east to west, the itinerary includes city tours, opportunities to marvel at breathtaking scenery and a chance to learn about the nation’s fascinating cultural history.
We’ve packed in visits to Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa, Toronto, and Vancouver, and a day trip to see the thundering waters of Niagara Falls. Keep your eyes peeled for bears and other wildlife as you tour the sensational Banff National Park, then prepare to be amazed by the turquoise-coloured water and jaw-dropping beauty of Lake Louise. Sit back, relax and admire the view as you travel in style aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train. Then take a ferry to Vancouver Island, where there’s the chance to get up close to nature on an optional whale-watching adventure.
In between the sightseeing, you’ll have free time to make your own discoveries and sample what’s on offer in Canada’s restaurants and bars. Those who want to do more can even tailor their trip by adding some of our exciting optional excursions.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 Uk - Montreal
Location: Montreal
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Cantlie Suites
Your epic Canadian adventure begins with a flight to Montreal. On arrival, we'll drive you to your well-positioned hotel where you can settle in and explore at leisure.
Day 2 Quebec City
Location: Montreal
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Cantlie Suites
Today, your sightseeing begins in earnest with a full-day trip to Quebec City. Founded by a French explorer in 1608, the city stands proud on the banks of the St Lawrence River and is the only walled city north of Mexico. Inside the fortifications narrow streets lead to an array of historic buildings and as we explore the UNESCO-listed historic district, you’ll feel like you have travelled back to Europe. We’ll see highlights including the iconic Château Frontenac, a picturesque castle built as a hotel in the late 19th century, the Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame and the star-shaped fortress, La Citadelle. Outside the city walls, we'll head to the Plains of Abraham battle site. Now a vast and spectacular park, this is where the British fought the French for control of Canada in 1759. To round off our tour, we’ll take in stunning views of the St Lawrence River from Dufferin Terrace, a wooden promenade that wraps around the Château Frontenac high above the river. From here you can also take in the incredible beauty of the Laurentian Hills.
Day 3 Montreal - Ottawa
Location: Ottawa
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown
Together, we will discover the highlights of Montreal on a sightseeing tour. Located in the French-speaking province of Quebec, Canada's second-largest city was named after Mount Royal, the triple-peaked hill at its heart. It boasts a wealth of 17th-century buildings, beautiful gardens, bustling street markets and open-air cafés, with its most iconic sight probably the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Later, we are going to head to the country's capital, Ottawa, and get our bearings on a tour when we arrive. Highlights include the impressive National War Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Confederation Square, the beautiful grounds of Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal and ByWard Market. After settling in at the hotel, you have a free evening in this great city, so why not enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants close to the hotel.
Day 4 Ottawa - Toronto
Location: Toronto
Accommodation Name: Chelsea Hotel
This morning we will leave Ottawa and drive south to the St Lawrence River where it forms the border between Canada and the USA. Here we find the stunning 1000 Islands, a stretch of over 50 miles of water that’s home to no less than 1864 islands. We will explore the spectacular scenery and serene beauty of this unique archipelago on a sightseeing cruise before continuing our journey to Toronto. Your downtown hotel is centrally located, perfect if you want to start exploring by yourselves this evening.
Day 5 Toronto
Location: Toronto
Accommodation Name: Chelsea Hotel
You're going to discover the bustling metropolis of Toronto on a short sightseeing tour this morning. Once you have your bearings, you will be keen to explore further at your own pace and can do so at leisure this afternoon. Perhaps browse the one-of-a-kind boutiques and eclectic array of galleries and restaurants in the Distillery District, take a harbour cruise for magnificent views of the city’s skyline or visit one of its many acclaimed museums. You may also want to head to the iconic CN Tower and take a high-speed lift to the main observation level. With its floor-to-ceiling windows, on a clear day, the views of the city and surrounding area are incredible. You can also choose to dine in the tower’s rotating 360 Restaurant, admiring the ever-changing view whilst sampling a showcase of Canadian cuisine.
Day 6 Niagara Falls
Location: Toronto
Accommodation Name: Chelsea Hotel
Your day begins with a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Often described as Ontario's loveliest town, it is located in the heart of the wine-making region on the shores of Lake Ontario. Next we're going to head to one of the greatest sights in the New World, the incredible Niagara Falls. You'll have plenty of time to explore and can choose how you want to view these thundering waters. One option is to take a thrilling boat ride, or perhaps you'll enjoy a unique view from below and behind, at the 'Journey Behind the Falls' attraction.
Day 7 Toronto - Banff
Location: Banff
Accommodation Name: Mount Royal Hotel
Today you’re heading west to the Rocky Mountains. We'll fly to Calgary and then continue our journey by road. Travelling through some spectacular scenery, we’re heading to the vibrant town of Banff which nestles high in the mountains and is surrounded by dramatic peaks.
Day 8 Banff
Location: Banff
Accommodation Name: Mount Royal Hotel
We’ll tour Banff National Park today, where staggering views appear at every turn. Snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, sparkling streams and swathes of forest are just some of the attractions in this stunning destination. The wildlife is equally as impressive, so look out for black and grizzly bears, wolves, elk and deer on land, then keep your eyes peeled for eagles, hawks and ospreys in the sky. There's plenty to see and do during your free time in Banff, perhaps take a scenic walk along the town’s trails, browse the shops for souvenirs or relax in the soothing waters of the Banff Upper Hot Springs. If you prefer organised sightseeing, our optional excursions include a cable car ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain and an unforgettable helicopter flight over the Rockies.
Day 9 Lake Louise
Location: Banff
Accommodation Name: Mount Royal Hotel
Today we are going to the breathtaking Lake Louise, a glacial, jade-green lake set high in the mountains. Surrounded by dramatic, soaring peaks, it is described as one of Canada's most beautiful locations, so be sure to have your camera ready. There are easy walking trails to explore if you want to appreciate the beauty of the lake from a different viewpoint.
Day 10 Rocky Mountaineer
Location: Kamloops
Accommodation Name: Rocky Mountaineer - Overnight Kamloops Hotel
Meals Included: B, L
A once-in-a-lifetime journey begins this morning as you step aboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train. Sit back, relax, and take in the stunning views as you travel in style through the Canadian Rockies, navigating tunnels and mountain passes on your way to Kamloops. You’ll enjoy SilverLeaf service, which includes seating in a single-level domed coach with oversized windows, giving you great viewing opportunities. Meals, snacks and drinks are all served at your seat, so all you have to do is enjoy. If you wish, you can upgrade to GoldLeaf service and have access to an exclusive outdoor viewing platform and a private dining room. You'll disembark the train in Kamloops and stay in a hotel overnight.
Day 11 Rocky Mountaineer
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation Name: Century Plaza Hotel
Meals Included: B, L
Another exciting day begins as you board the Rocky Mountaineer this morning and travel to the beautiful city of Vancouver. Take your seat and enjoy more sublime views as you travel alongside the Thompson River and through the dramatic canyons of the Fraser River. Keep a lookout for grizzly bears too as you enjoy a fascinating commentary from your onboard hosts.
Day 12 Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation Name: Century Plaza Hotel
Set amongst spectacular natural scenery, the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver is surrounded by coastal waters, lush green forests and majestic snow-capped mountains. Today, a sightseeing tour will introduce you to its many highlights including the historic Gastown district, bustling Chinatown and Stanley Park, one of the world's biggest and best urban parks. Now you have your bearings, this afternoon is at leisure. You could explore what culinary treats are on offer at Granville Island’s Public Market, check out a museum or head to one of the large shopping malls for some retail therapy.
Alternatively, you can join an optional excursion to Vancouver’s Northshore. Here you'll see the spectacular Capilano Suspension Bridge and have the chance to take the cable car up Grouse Mountain for breathtaking views of the city, Vancouver Island and the snow-capped mountains of Washington State.
Day 13 Vancouver - Victoria
Location: Victoria
Accommodation Name: Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza Hotel
We're heading away from the mainland today, to spend two nights in Victoria on Vancouver Island, which we reach by ferry and an onward drive. When we arrive, we'll head off to the famous Butchart Gardens, considered to be one of the most spectacular floral show gardens in the world. Established on the site of a former limestone quarry, the displays include an impressive collection of roses, and plants from as far afield as Japan and the Mediterranean.
Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and is often said to resemble an old English town, with its narrow streets and grand buildings. We’ll see its highlights on an included sightseeing tour this afternoon.
Day 14 Victoria At Leisure
Location: Victoria
Accommodation Name: Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza Hotel
You can soak up Victoria's old-world charm at your own pace today as you explore at leisure. Maybe you’ll head to the renowned Royal BC Museum or visit one of the city’s craft breweries for a tasting. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you won’t want to miss today’s optional whale-watching excursion. The waters around Vancouver Island offer the ideal opportunity to get closer to the delights of the natural world and there's a chance you'll see orca, or killer whales, in their natural environment.
Day 15 Victoria - Whistler
Location: Whistler
Accommodation Name: Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre
As we leave Victoria behind, we’ll visit Vancouver Island’s incredible Malahat Skywalk, a wooden treetop walkway leading to a spiral tower. Rising 250 metres above sea level, the tower offers incredible, panoramic views over forest-clad mountains and the inlets of the Salish Sea. Along the way, you’ll learn about the nature, culture, and history of Vancouver Island and the more adventurous can opt to descend from the tower on a thrilling spiral slide!
Later, after taking the ferry back to the mainland, we’ll drive through stunning scenery on the Sea-to-Sky highway and make our way to the mountain resort of Whistler.
Day 16 Vancouver - Uk
Meals Included: B
This morning, you’ll learn about the cultural history of Whistler’s Indigenous people at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, a museum, art gallery and café. Located on the shared territories of the Squamish and Lil'wat Nations, the centre shares and celebrates the traditions of these two unique communities. It also provides youngsters who live on nearby reserves with valuable employment and training opportunities.
Finally, we’ll have one more chance to soak up Canada’s spectacular scenery as we drive back to the airport in Vancouver and check in for our flight home.
Day 17 Uk
After an unforgettable trip, you'll arrive back in the UK today.
What's Included
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Accommodation
As detailed in the itinerary
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Airport Transfers at Destination
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Fully Guided
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International Travel
Return flights from London
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Meals
4 meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and welcome drink
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Return flights from London
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15 nights in great quality hotels plus 1 night in flight
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Scenic Train: 2-day half-board rail journey in SilverLeaf Service on board the Rocky Mountaineer (Crew gratuities included).
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5 meals: 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches and welcome drink
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Travelsphere Holiday Director and Specialist Local Guide
What's Not Included
Check out our Q&As
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
No
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
As detailed in the itinerary
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
A reasonable level of fitness is required for all Travelsphere holidays as some walking will be involved.
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
Yes
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
Yes
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What is the maximum group size?
For most Travelsphere Tours, the maximum group size is 35
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Travelsphere’s Flexibility Promise has been created to give you complete peace of mind and make you feel confident when booking your holiday with us. We have also been awarded the WTTC safe travels stamp which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Travelsphere has been operating escorted touring holidays for 60 years
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Travelsphere, we are committed to operating our business operations responsibly, with integrity and always act ethically in all our business dealings and relationships. We are committed to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure slavery and human trafficking does not take place in our own business or in any of our supply chains
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
You will receive Holiday conformation upon booking, and then several documents detailing any adddiotnal information and the optional excursions that you can book before you travel. The final information covering your flights, hotels and itinerary will be sent to you around 14 days before your departure date.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
No, we do not offer single share options
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
No, Im afraid not
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If we can accomadate a change in date - we will always do our best to help you. Just pick up the phone and ask one of our friendly advisors - and make sure you have your booking number to hand.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Our Travelsphere Cares programmes, in partnership with the Planeterra Foundation, support local projects and social enterprises by helping them earn an income from tourism. We simply donate a portion of the funds from our tours, so it’s great to know that when you travel with us you are helping to change lives and turn travel into real impact.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Like minded travellers
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
All of our accommodation providers will be working to the very highest standards of hygiene – you already always enjoy a private room of your own on all of our trips, all of our partners will be guided by local government operational standards of hygiene and the new protocols we have issued to them.
Reviews of this Operator
Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Travelsphere allows you to make 4 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 75 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Travelsphere allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform travelsphere, 75 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Travelsphere requires a minimum deposit of 21% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 84 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travelsphere charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Book with Confidence
When you book your holiday with Just You, you can have complete peace of mind. Your money is 100% protected through our Independent Trust Fund, any money you pay to us is held by them & governed by 3rd?party trustees. It is also a condition of our ATOL license and is regularly monitored by the Civil Aviation Authority. We don’t receive any money until after you’ve come back from your holiday – so your money is 100% protected no matter what. If you have any questions you can speak to one of our friendly and knowledgeable holiday advisors.