Train Connections

The scenic Ocean journey takes less than 24 hours but transports you 1346 km from the Atlantic Ocean to the shores of the St. Lawrence River.

Enjoy French charm and East Coast hospitality on a getaway that links Halifax and Montreal by train. You’ll explore coastal Halifax before boarding VIA Rail’s ‘Ocean’ train for a scenic journey to energetic Montreal. 

See the top sites in Halifax, including an excursion to famous Peggy’s Cove. In Montreal, join a guided bicycle tour of the city’s diverse neighbourhoods and must-see attractions. Excellent food and lively culture abound in both cities. The connecting train journey, one of the oldest in North America, is an excellent experience in itself with included meals and cozy cabins.

Day 1: Halifax

Welcome to Halifax, a charming coastal city with a rich maritime history. After arriving at the airport, you'll make your way to the hotel in downtown Halifax. Take some time to relax and explore the city on your own.

You may wish to head to the Halifax Waterfront, one of the province's most-visited destination. You can stroll on the boardwalk, which stretches out for nearly 4 km, and visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.

The city has plenty of dining options, including many that specialize in seafood.

Day 2: Halifax & Peggy's Cove

Get ready for a full day of adventure as you explore the best of Halifax and Peggy’s Cove with a local guide.

Your guide will pick you up directly from your hotel and take you on a scenic drive to Peggy’s Cove, a picturesque fishing village located about an hour from Halifax.

Here, you’ll have the opportunity to take a picture with the most photographed lighthouse in Canada – the iconic Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse.

Afterward, head back to Halifax to visit historic Citadel Hill and learn about the military history of the hill. See the interpreters dressed in traditional uniforms from the 1800s.

You’ll also head out on a narrated driving tour of downtown Halifax, passing by some of the city’s most notable points of interest including the Titanic cemetery (Fairview Lawn Cemetery), City Gardens, Pier 21, Halifax Farmers Market, and Point Pleasant Park.

In the evening, try another seaside restaurant or head out for a walk on Argyle Street, which is a hot spot for live music, al fresco dining and nightlife.

Day 3: Free Day in Halifax

Spent the day enjoying more of what the city has to offer. You can take the ferry across to Dartmouth to see the city from the water or head for a day at the beach. Rainbow Haven Beach Provincial Park has a spectacular beach and is just 35 minutes from downtown Halifax.

Optionally, you can rent a car and visit the Annapolis Valley for an immersive experience. Located a short drive from Halifax, the Annapolis Valley is a lush region known for farmland, wineries and access to the Bay of Fundy.

Here, you'll find a series of experiences offered by the community that showcase the region. We encourage you to make time on your trip to visit this region and partake in one or more of the Food Art Nature experiences.

Read more about Food Art Nature in our feature Growing Experiential Tourism.

Day 4: VIA Rail's The Ocean

After enjoying one more breakfast in Halifax, head to the train station for your journey aboard VIA Rail's The Ocean train.

Experience the scenic beauty of the Canadian coast as you travel from Halifax to Montreal. You’ll have your own private bedroom for two and meals are included in the dining car.

You'll pass through Truro and Amherst in Nova Scotia before entering the province of New Brunswick.

The train passes through Moncton, Bathurst and Campbellton on its way to Quebec.

Day 5: Arrive in Montreal

Wake up in the morning in the beautiful province of Quebec. Have breakfast as the train zips along towards Montreal.

Upon arrival at Montreal Central Station, you'll make your way to your downtown Montreal hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the second largest French-speaking city in the world.

Discover the city’s rich culture and history, excellent shopping, lively nightlife, and renowned restaurants.

For a classic meal, try L'Express, a Montreal staple. Reservations are highly recommended.

Day 6: Biking in Montreal

After breakfast, head out on a guided cycling tour of Montreal’s principal sites and diverse neighbourhoods. Discover the city’s history, architecture, and urban vitality by visiting its must-see attractions and some of its hidden gems.

You’ll cover about 10 km on the tour and can keep the bike for the rest of the day.

Day 7: Montreal

Enjoy a full day exploring the city on your own.

Discover Montreal’s vibrant arts and culture scene, visit its numerous museums and galleries, or simply stroll through its charming neighbourhoods.

Climb the stairs to the lookout at Mount Royal, meander through the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal or explore the cafes and bars in the Plateau neighbourhood.

Day 8: Departure

Enjoy one more breakfast in Montreal before making your way to the airport for your return flight home.