Canada: The Rocky Mountaineer & the Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary
Canada, Eh?—another dream destination high up on our bucket list that we finally decided to tackle in the summer of 2024. But right off the bat, we faced a dilemma: “This is going to be one seriously expensive trip.” Probably one of the priciest we've done so far, especially with two weeks of traveling planned. Realistically, this might be our one shot at seeing Canada, so we had to make it count.
With that in mind, we knew we wanted to explore Vancouver and Toronto. But here's the kicker—they're on opposite sides of the map! And then there’s Sara, our resident nature lover and rock enthusiast, who just had to experience the Canadian Rockies. After tons of research, she stumbled across the Rocky Mountaineer, a dreamy train ride you’ve probably seen on Instagram, featuring stunning lakes, vibrant colors, snow-capped peaks, and views straight out of a postcard.
So, we thought, why not do it all? We’re here to bring you the ULTIMATE GUIDE for your Canadian adventure! Buckle up as we dive into itineraries, must-see spots, and what to expect budget-wise (spoiler: start saving now). Let’s make this an exploration odyssey you’ll never forget!
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Dates, Accommodation and Flights
We chose to travel between the 7th and 21st of June, hoping to catch some of those comfortable early summer temperatures. Sure, we expected the occasional tropical storm, but nothing too wild. Plus, there’s still snow in spots like Banff, which is always a win. Traveling in June also meant avoiding the peak season crowds, so we managed to score slightly better prices.
Accommodation-wise, most of our stays were included in the Rocky Mountaineer package (we’ll get into the details soon), but the nights we booked ourselves—three in Vancouver and another four in Toronto—were still pretty steep. We went for budget-friendly hotels like the Ibis Budget, but even then, we ended up dropping 1,100 euros for rooms with breakfast. Not exactly cheap, right?
For flights, we paid 830 euros per person to fly from Portugal with a stopover in Paris. On top of that, we had to book a flight from Calgary (where the Rocky Mountaineer experience ends) to Toronto, which added another 260 euros per person to our tab.
One thing that really helped us manage the costs was a payment plan we arranged with our local travel agency. We highly recommend looking into something similar, especially for a big-ticket item like the Rocky Mountaineer. It allowed us to pay off the trip in manageable monthly installments instead of getting hit with a massive bill all at once.
Hotels
Vancouver
Hotel Belmont Vancouver Cost: Approximately €180 per night
Toronto
We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express Toronto Downton 3* Cost: Around €200 per night, including breakfast
Dining Out in Canada: A Flavorful but Pricey Adventure
Canada’s food scene is a bit of a rollercoaster—delicious, but with a price tag that might make your eyes water. Here’s what we discovered about eating out:
Prepare for a Price Shock: Eating out in Canada can give your wallet a workout. We were in for a surprise when we found that even a simple meal for two could easily cost around 100 dollars. Even something as basic as two wraps set us back 40 dollars. For a more budget-friendly approach, consider hitting up the supermarket for snacks and save those restaurant outings for special treats, like the memorable dinner at Lake Louise.
The Tipping Tradition: Canada’s tipping culture is pretty robust. You might be asked for a tip even before you’ve received your coffee or snacks. Taxi drivers, pre-booked transfers, and various service staff will all expect a little extra. It’s all part of the Canadian experience, but if you’re not used to it, it might catch you off guard. Just budget a bit more for those surprise tips and go with the flow.
Rocky Mountaineer Experience and Package
Now for the showstopper: the Rocky Mountaineer! We opted for the Journey Through the Clouds Discovery Lake Louise, Eastbound package. We went with the SilverLeaf service, which is their standard offering. Trust us, it’s more than enough, and the price difference from the higher tiers is pretty significant.
Even with a Black Friday discount (definitely something to watch out for), the whole package set us back €7,745 for the two of us. That price covered two days of luxurious train travel with breakfast, lunch, and all the snacks and beverages you could want. It also included hotel stays along the route, although breakfasts weren’t part of the deal, plus transfers between airports and hotels.
While the package boasted 11 days of adventure, only two were spent entirely on the train. The rest involved exploring by private motorcoach, complete with guides. At first, we were a bit bummed about this, but it ended up making perfect sense. The motorcoach tours allowed us to experience nature in a whole new way, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife up close.
Yes, the price tag might seem steep, but when we compared it to what we’d already spent on accommodation alone, we realized it was worth every penny. The Rocky Mountaineer offers an experience like no other, with views and natural beauty that we simply weren’t prepared for.
Our itinerary started in Vancouver (with one night there included in the package, which meant switching hotels after three days) and ended in Calgary, taking us through breathtaking landscapes and stopping at stunning spots like Kamloops, Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise. Now, let’s dive into the details of our full itinerary and the must-see highlights if you’re planning a similar journey!
Extra Tours to consider
A boat tour at Maligne Lake in Jasper, and the Spirit Island
Tickets for a shuttle to Lake Moraine (if you are staying at the Fairmont please book at reception)
Itinerary
Welcome to the ultimate Canadian adventure!
Our journey kicks off in vibrant Vancouver, a city that greets you with stunning skylines and a splash of jet lag. After a long flight with a layover, we arrived at 11 a.m. local time—right on the same day we left. Time travel, anyone? Despite the fatigue, we had a day to explore before crashing at our hotel. So here’s how our Vancouver days panned out:
Day 1: Welcome to Vancouver!
Hotel Belmont Vancouver is where we dropped our bags and refreshed ourselves. Located near downtown, this hotel put us right in the middle of the action. After a quick regroup, we were on the hunt for some good food.
Lunch at Meat & Bread: We opted for a quick bite at Meat & Bread , where the sandwiches are legendary, and the kale salad made us feel like we were off to a healthy start.
Gastown Steam Clock: Just a short walk from the restaurant, we found ourselves at the Gastown Steam Clock. Watching it whistle away was oddly satisfying, and we took our time strolling through the nearby souvenir shops, picking up a few quirky mementos before calling it a day.
Day 2: The Great Vancouver Workout
Refreshed and ready, Day 2 was all about hitting as many spots as possible. This was a serious leg day, so wear your comfiest shoes and get ready to clock some steps! Here’s how our day unfolded:
BC Place: We started our day by taking a quick look at BC Place, home to some epic sports events and concerts. The stadium is massive and worth a peek even if you’re not catching a game.
A-maze-ing Laughter: This quirky art installation in Morton Park will definitely put a smile on your face. The giant bronze laughing statues are perfect for some silly photos.
Second Beach & Third Beach: We took a leisurely walk through Stanley Park, stopping first at Second Beach and then continuing to Third Beach. The views are unbeatable, and it’s a great spot to people-watch or even dip your toes in the water if the weather's right.
Hollow Tree: An iconic spot in Stanley Park, the Hollow Tree is a 700-year-old tree stump that’s become a bit of a tourist attraction. It’s one of those spots that’s much cooler in person than it sounds!
Robson Street: Time for some shopping! Robson Street is Vancouver’s answer to Fifth Avenue. We took our time browsing the shops and maybe even indulged in some retail therapy.
Lunch at Steamworks Brewery: We grabbed lunch at Steamworks Brewery , where the tacos were a standout. The atmosphere is chill, and it’s a great place to unwind.
Chinatown & Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden: Our afternoon took us to Chinatown, where we explored the serene Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. It’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city and definitely worth a visit.
St. Rose of Lima Cathedral: We wrapped up our day with a visit to St. Rose of Lima Cathedral. The architecture is stunning, and it’s a quiet spot to take a breather.
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art: Finally, we ended our day at the Bill Reid Gallery. It’s small but packed with incredible Indigenous art—definitely a cultural highlight.
Day 3: Adventure Out of Town
For Day 3, we headed out of the city and into the wild! We started with a taxi ride but quickly realized that navigating Vancouver’s public transport can be an adventure in itself. Here’s where we ended up:
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: If you’re afraid of heights, like Sara is, this might be a challenge, but the views are worth every shaky step. We even grabbed lunch at the Cliff House Restaurant at Capilano—do yourself a favor and order the salmon, because when in Canada!
Grouse Mountain: After Capilano, we headed to Grouse Mountain. The Skyride cable car takes you up, and from there, it’s all about stunning views and maybe even spotting some wildlife. It’s a fantastic way to cap off your Vancouver experience before moving on to the next leg of your journey.
Day 4: Farewell to Vancouver
Our last full day in Vancouver before boarding the Rocky Mountaineer, and it was time to soak up as much of the city as possible! We had switched hotels (thanks to our Rocky Mountaineer package), but that didn’t slow us down. Here’s how we spent our final day in this vibrant city:
Granville Island Public Market: We kicked off our day with a visit to Granville Island Public Market. If you’re a foodie, this place is heaven. Fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious treats are everywhere you look. We grabbed some local cheese and fresh fruit to snack on as we explored the island. Don’t miss the handmade crafts and quirky souvenirs—perfect for picking up something unique to remember your trip by.
Bonus Tip: If you have time, check out the Granville Island Brewing for a tasting session of some local brews. It’s a fun way to wind down your Vancouver adventure.
Day 5: All Aboard the Rocky Mountaineer!
The adventure truly began today with the start of our Rocky Mountaineer experience! Excitement was in the air as we met the friendly team onboard. Here’s a glimpse into our first day on the train:
Departure from Vancouver: We were greeted with a small, delicious treat—a lemon and berry tart—before settling in for breakfast. The train slowly pulled away from Vancouver, and we watched as the city skyline gave way to lush green pastures, with towering mountains looming in the distance. The transition from urban to wild was breathtaking.
Through Sasquatch and Blue Sky Country: The landscapes shifted as we entered Sasquatch Country, a region rich with legends and dense forests. But it was Blue Sky Country that really took us by surprise. Imagine the Wild West with a twist—rocky terrain, endless blue skies, and a vibe straight out of a Red Dead Redemption game. We were on the lookout for wildlife, and sure enough, we spotted our first deer! We kept our eyes peeled, hoping for a glimpse of bears or elk as the journey continued.
Lunch on the Train: Lunch was an absolute treat, with a variety of options including vegetarian and vegan dishes. The culinary experience onboard is top-notch, so don’t be shy about indulging.
Arrival in Kamloops: By late afternoon, we rolled into Kamloops, a charming town with a cozy downtown area. The sunset painted the sky in hues of pink and orange as we explored the local shops, picking up a few more souvenirs to add to our growing collection. Afterward, it was time to head to our hotel for a well-deserved rest, dreaming of the adventures yet to come.
Day 6: Scenic Marvels on the Rocky Mountaineer
Our second day on the Rocky Mountaineer was like stepping into a nature documentary, except we were the stars and didn’t have to deal with camera crews following us around. Here's how the day unfolded:
Morning on the Train: We kicked things off with pancakes and oatmeal, because what better way to fuel up for a day of epic views than with a stack of carbs? Fully charged, we cozied into our seats, ready to be wowed.
Thompson-Nicola River & Hell’s Gate: As the train chugged along the Thompson-Nicola River, we passed through Hell’s Gate—don’t worry, no actual gates to hell here, just some seriously impressive rapids. The water was wild, the canyon walls were steep, and we were officially in awe.
North Thompson & Snow-Capped Mountains: Next, we glided along the North Thompson River where snow-capped mountains made their grand entrance. Cue Sara, practically bouncing out of her seat with excitement at the sight of all that snow. For someone whose snow experience is mostly limited to the freezer section, this was pure magic!
Alberta Steak and Ravioli Lunch & Jaw-Dropping Views: Just when we thought the day couldn’t get better, lunch was served—a juicy Alberta steak that was as big as the mountains outside. As we devoured our meal, we were treated to the kind of scenery that made us question if this was real life or some kind of Canadian fairy tale.
Arrival in Jasper: By late afternoon, we rolled into Jasper and were greeted by a rainbow stretching over snowy peaks. Talk about a grand entrance! We dropped our bags at the hotel and had just enough time to wander around Jasper’s adorable little town. With its cute shops and laid-back vibe, Jasper quickly won us over. I mean, who wouldn’t love a place where even the mountains seem to smile at you?
Day 7: Exploring Jasper’s Greatest Hits
With a whole day to play with, we were ready to dive headfirst into Jasper’s natural wonders. We booked a tour that promised to hit all the best spots, and let’s just say, it didn’t disappoint, so we definitely would recommend looking into that:
Maligne Canyon: First stop, Maligne Canyon, where we finally spotted some local wildlife—a pregnant elk just hanging out like it was no big deal. Meanwhile, Sara was geeking out over the canyon’s crazy-deep gorges and thundering waterfalls. If you’re into dramatic landscapes and getting your mind blown by nature, like she is, this place is for you.
Medicine Lake: Next up was Medicine Lake, a serene spot that could give any screensaver a run for its money. The lake was so peaceful, it almost felt like time had stopped. Then, just to keep things interesting, we spotted our first bear! This guy was clearly living his best life, and we were here for it. Plus, there was a marmot sunbathing nearby, just casually soaking up the rays.
Maligne Lake: Our final stop was Maligne Lake, the crown jewel of Jasper and, honestly, the kind of place you dream about when you think of the Rockies. With its glassy water and towering peaks, it was pure perfection. We spent our time just staring at the scenery, wondering how we’d ever top this experience. Spoiler alert: you can’t. Maligne Lake is as good as it gets.
Bonus Tip: Boat Rides at Maligne Lake
If you’re looking to take your Maligne Lake experience to the next level, you’ve got to check out the boat tours they offer. These tours take you deep into the heart of the lake, all the way to the iconic Spirit Island, one of the most photographed spots in the Canadian Rockies. If you’re into photography, this is your moment to capture some seriously Instagram-worthy shots. The tours usually run about 90 minutes.
And a pro tip: book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, because these tours are super popular and spots fill up fast.
Day 8: Glaciers, Lakes, and Bears
We’re officially hitting the road through Jasper National Park, and our next stop is the legendary Lake Louise Chateau. Yes, the one with the views that make your Instagram followers swoon with envy. But before we check in and pretend we’re royalty, here’s what our day looked like:
Jasper National Park: If you like bears, you’re in luck. We saw so many that we were half expecting them to start a conga line. And the views? Just your average stunning lakes and mountains, no big deal (except it totally is).
Athabasca Glacier: Ever walked on a glacier? Neither had we. This experience was so surreal, especially for Sara who’s more accustomed to beaches than frozen landscapes. But hey, when in Canada, right?
Glacier Skywalk: Imagine standing on a glass walkway suspended high above the valley floor. Now imagine Sara, who’s terrified of heights, clutching onto Vasco for dear life while he’s casually snapping photos. Talk about opposites attract!
Peyto Lake: This one is a hidden gem, folks. Not as famous as the others, but absolutely worth the visit. The turquoise waters are the stuff desktop wallpapers are made of.
Lake Louise: And then, the grand finale—Lake Louise. It’s everything you’ve heard and more. We treated ourselves to dinner with a view on the hotel’s balcony, and let’s just say it was chef’s kiss worth every penny. If you’re ever here, splurge a little—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime vibe.
Day 9: Snow in June? Yes, Please!
With a free day at Lake Louise, we couldn’t resist going to Lake Moraine, one of the most iconic spots in the Canadian Rockies. We booked a shuttle bus and headed out, not quite prepared for what was waiting for us.
And then, the magic happened—it started to snow. In June! Sara was practically doing cartwheels. It was like walking into a postcard.
But here’s the thing: Lake Moraine is as popular as it is beautiful. The crowds can be a bit much, especially if you’re looking for that peaceful, reflective moment with nature. So, our pro tip? Get there as early as possible.
While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to hike up the Rockpile Trail. It’s a short but steep climb that rewards you with one of the best views in the Rockies. Trust us, it’s worth every step. If you’re into photography, this is where you’ll get those jaw-dropping shots.
Day 10: From Snowy Peaks to City Streets
Our journey continued by motorcoach towards Calgary, but not before soaking in some more incredible spots:
Banff Gondola: More snow, and more excitement from Sara. The gondola ride gives you sweeping views that feel like they belong on a holiday card. It’s like stepping into a winter wonderland.
Bow Falls: Just another gorgeous waterfall. NBD.
Banff: If you love charming villages, you’ll adore Banff. We had only a few hours, but it left us wanting more. Seriously, if you have time, spend a night here. The vibe is straight out of a Hallmark movie.
Surprise Corner & Hoodoos: Caught another glimpse of an elk and saw these cool rock formations called Hoodoos. Nature’s got some serious skills.
Calgary: And finally, we rolled into Calgary, ready for the next leg of our journey. The city is most famous for the Calgary Stampede, a massive rodeo event held every July, where you can see cowboys and cowgirls in action. Downtown Calgary is a lively mix of skyscrapers and historical buildings. If you’re a fan of heights, don’t miss the Calgary Tower, where you can step out onto a glass floor and get a bird’s-eye view of the city.
Day 11: Hello, Toronto!
We hopped on a flight from Calgary to Toronto, and arrived with plenty of time to explore. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express Toronto Downton 3*. Here’s what we got up to:
Lunch at the Distillery District: Super cool area with great food. Highly recommend it for a chill afternoon.
Old Toronto Church: Just a bit of history and architecture to round out the day.
Day 12: Toronto Takes
Time to tackle Toronto! We walked our feet off and saw all the must-see spots:
CN Tower: You can’t miss this one. The views are insane, and if you’re feeling brave, try the glass floor. (Sara skipped this one, obviously.)
St. Lawrence Market: Perfect spot to grab some local eats. The peameal bacon sandwich is a must-try.
Toronto Sign: You know the one. Grab a selfie here because, when in Toronto!
Kensington Market: Quirky, colorful, and full of life. Perfect for wandering and grabbing a coffee.
Toronto Center Island: Escape the city buzz and catch a ferry over for some beautiful greenery and beaches. You can easily go by ferry and spend a lovely afternoon here, it doesn’t even feel like you are in Toronto.
Day 13: Niagara Falls—Tour Tips and Tricks
We booked a Niagara Falls tour, but here’s the scoop: skip the motorcoach tour. It takes forever and you’ll be stuck in traffic more than you’d like. Instead, hop on a boat—it’s way faster and you can book a tour on-site if you want to explore further.
Niagara on the Lake: A cute little town with wineries and charm for days. Try some local ice cream here and make sure you check the Prince of Wales Hotel. This place is like a living museum, with its elegant Victorian architecture and old-world charm. Fun fact: this is where the British Royal Family stays whenever they’re in town.
Smallest Church in the World: Blink and you’ll miss it, but it’s quirky and worth a quick stop.
Niagara Falls: The main event. You’ll get drenched, but it’s so worth it. And if you’re planning to film the whole thing, bring an action cam—your phone will not survive the soaking.
Bonus Tip: Capture the Fireworks!
If you can, book a dinner with a view of the Falls for the evening. Watching the fireworks light up the sky over the rushing water was the perfect end to our day. Just make sure you have your camera ready because it’s a sight you won’t want to forget!
Day 14: The Final Toronto Tour—Pretending We’re Art and History Connoisseurs
So here we are, our last full day in Toronto before jetting back home. We decided to switch gears and dive into some culture, giving our inner art and history buffs a chance to shine. Or at least pretend to, right?
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): We kicked off the day with a visit to AGO, and boy, did we luck out! There was a KAWS Family exhibition happening, and it was absolutely fantastic. We got our fill of cool, contemporary art, and yes, we even managed to snag some pretty awesome souvenirs. If you’re into street art vibes mixed with highbrow culture, this place is a win.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Next up was the ROM, and Sara was over the moon. She’s got a soft spot for museums, especially anything involving rocks and fossils, thanks to her geologist dad. Vasco, on the other hand, was a good sport, tagging along and snapping pics of every shiny rock and dinosaur skeleton. If you’re a history buff or just enjoy staring at ancient artifacts, this place is a must-see.
High Park: To round off our day, we ventured a bit out of the city center to High Park. It’s this lush, expansive park that feels like a breath of fresh air—literally. We strolled around, took in the greenery, and even stumbled upon some animals, including a random buffalo! Yeah, you read that right. Who knew Toronto had a little bit of the wild west tucked away in a park?
And just like that, our epic Canadian adventure came to an end. We’ve got to say, even though it took nearly a year of saving, every single penny was worth it. The raw beauty of Canada’s nature—especially those glaciers that won’t be around forever—left us in awe. If you ever get the chance, we highly recommend experiencing it for yourself. It’s the kind of trip that makes you pause and appreciate the world in a whole new way.
