13-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes & Classic Routes in Canada
Embark on a sophisticated journey across the second-largest country in the world, where cosmopolitan flair meets untamed wilderness. This 13-day route is meticulously designed for those who seek the finer things in life—think stays in historic castle-hotels, private helicopter tours over thundering waterfalls, and the unparalleled comfort of first-class rail travel through the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
From the vibrant skyscraper-lined streets of Toronto to the cobblestone alleyways of Old Quebec and the emerald waters of Lake Louise, you will experience the diverse cultural tapestry and breathtaking landscapes of Canada. This itinerary prioritizes comfort, luxury, and exclusive access, ensuring every moment is as seamless as it is memorable.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Toronto, Ontario - Urban Sophistication
Arrival at Pearson International
Touch down in Canada's largest city and enjoy a private limousine transfer to your downtown hotel. Settle into your suite overlooking the city skyline.
Private Gallery Tour at the ROM
Enjoy a curated tour of the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), exploring world-class art and natural history exhibits with a private guide.
Dinner at Canoe
Indulge in a multi-course tasting menu featuring local ingredients at Canoe, located on the 54th floor with panoramic views of Lake Ontario.
St. Lawrence Market Evening Walk
A quiet stroll through the historic district to see the illuminated architecture of one of North America's oldest markets.
Day 2: Toronto, Ontario - Heights and Heritage
CN Tower SkyPod Access
Skip the lines and ascend to the highest observation point in the Western Hemisphere for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the GTA.
Lunch in Yorkville
Dine in the prestigious Yorkville neighborhood, home to high-end boutiques and the city's elite culinary scene.
Distillery District Exploration
Wander the pedestrian-only historic district, known for its Victorian industrial architecture, art galleries, and artisanal chocolate shops.
Theater Night at Mirvish
Enjoy a world-class Broadway production at the historic Royal Alexandra Theatre or the Princess of Wales Theatre.
Day 3: Niagara Region - Falls and Vineyards
Helicopter Tour over Niagara Falls
Take a private flight from Toronto directly to Niagara for a bird's-eye view of the thundering Horseshoe Falls.
Icewine Tasting in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Visit the prestigious Peller Estates for a private cellar tour and a tasting of their world-renowned Icewine in an igloo-like lounge.
Stroll Niagara-on-the-Lake
Explore the quaint 19th-century charm of this well-preserved town, often called the prettiest town in Canada.
Return to Toronto
A scenic drive back along the Niagara Parkway, stopping at floral displays and historic monuments.
Day 4: Travel to Ottawa, Ontario - The Capital Route
VIA Rail Business Class to Ottawa
Board the Corridor train for a 4.5-hour scenic journey. Enjoy complimentary meals and drinks in the comfort of Business Class.
Parliament Hill Private Tour
Explore the Gothic revival architecture of Canada's seat of government, including the stunning Library of Parliament.
ByWard Market Artisan Walk
Sample local treats like the famous BeaverTails and browse luxury Canadian-made crafts in this historic market.
Dinner at Riviera
Enjoy sophisticated Canadian cuisine in a stunningly converted bank building on Sparks Street.
Day 5: Ottawa to Montreal, Quebec - Cultural Immersion
National Gallery of Canada
View the most comprehensive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art in a spectacular glass-and-granite building.
VIA Rail to Montreal
A short, 2-hour luxury train ride brings you into the heart of Montreal, the world's second-largest French-speaking city.
Check-in at Fairmont Queen Elizabeth
Stay at the iconic hotel where John Lennon and Yoko Ono held their famous 'Bed-In' for peace.
Aura Light Show at Notre-Dame
Experience a breathtaking immersive light and sound show inside the historic Notre-Dame Basilica.
Day 6: Montreal, Quebec - Gastronomy and Style
Private Walking Tour of Old Montreal
Wander the cobblestone streets of the 17th-century district with a historian, visiting hidden courtyards and secret boutiques.
Lunch at Joe Beef
Experience the legendary Montreal dining scene at this acclaimed spot, known for its decadent and creative menu.
Mount Royal Viewpoint
A private driver takes you to the summit of Mount Royal for the best panoramic view of the island city.
Dinner at Toqué!
Savor a meal at one of Canada's most celebrated restaurants, a pioneer in the farm-to-table movement.
Day 7: Travel to Quebec City - The European Escape
Train to Quebec City
Continue your luxury rail journey into the heart of French Canada, arriving at the stunning Gare du Palais.
Stroll Petit Champlain
Explore one of the oldest commercial streets in North America, filled with charming boutiques and bistros.
Funicular Ride to Dufferin Terrace
Take the historic funicular up the cliff for views of the St. Lawrence River and the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.
Dinner at Restaurant Chez Muffy
Located in a historic maritime warehouse, this restaurant offers incredible garden-to-table French cuisine.
Day 8: Quebec City - History and Grandeur
Citadelle de Québec Tour
Witness the Changing of the Guard at this active military installation and the secondary residence of the Governor General.
Plains of Abraham Picnic
Enjoy a luxury catered picnic on the site of the historic 1759 battle, overlooking the river.
Afternoon Tea at Le Château Frontenac
Indulge in a traditional high tea service at the most photographed hotel in the world.
Montmorency Falls Visit
Visit this massive waterfall, which is actually higher than Niagara Falls, via private transfer.
Day 9: Flight to the Rockies - Calgary to Banff
Flight to Calgary
Board a morning flight from Quebec City to Calgary, the gateway to the Canadian Rockies.
Private Transfer to Banff
A luxury SUV awaits at Calgary International to whisk you into the heart of Banff National Park.
Banff Gondola Sunset
Ascend Sulphur Mountain for a dramatic 360-degree view of the surrounding peaks as the sun begins to set.
Dinner at Eden
Dine at Canada’s only 5-diamond restaurant, located within the Rimrock Resort Hotel.
Day 10: Banff National Park - Emerald Lakes
Lake Louise Early Access
Be among the first to see the turquoise waters of Lake Louise before the crowds arrive.
Moraine Lake Exploration
Visit the Valley of the Ten Peaks and see the iconic view found on the old Canadian twenty-dollar bill.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Tea
Enjoy lunch with a view of the Victoria Glacier at this legendary lakeside castle.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Soak in the natural mineral waters while surrounded by the majestic Rundle Mountain.
Day 11: The Icefields Parkway - Glaciers and Gaps
Drive the Icefields Parkway
Set out on one of the most scenic drives in the world, passing hanging glaciers and turquoise alpine lakes.
Columbia Icefield Adventure
Board a massive Ice Explorer to drive onto the Athabasca Glacier and stand on ice thousands of years old.
Glacier Skywalk
Walk out onto a glass-bottomed platform 918 feet above the Sunwapta Valley for a thrilling perspective.
Return to Banff
Keep a lookout for wildlife such as grizzly bears, elk, and bighorn sheep on the return drive.
Day 12: Travel to Vancouver - West Coast Bound
Flight to Vancouver
A short flight from Calgary takes you to the vibrant Pacific coast city of Vancouver.
Seaplane Tour of the Coast
Take off from Coal Harbour for a flight over the city, Stanley Park, and the surrounding mountains.
Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Carriage
A classic and luxurious way to see the totem poles and scenic seawall of North America’s largest urban park.
Farewell Dinner at Hawksworth
Celebrate your final night with modern Canadian cuisine at one of the country's top-rated restaurants.
Day 13: Vancouver - Departure and Relaxation
Granville Island Private Foodie Tour
Sample the freshest Pacific seafood and artisanal cheeses with a local chef as your guide.
Gastown Historic Walk
See the famous Steam Clock and explore the trendy galleries in Vancouver's oldest neighborhood.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
Cross the iconic bridge and explore the Treetops Adventure for a final taste of Canadian nature.
Departure Transfer
A private chauffeur takes you to Vancouver International Airport for your journey home.
Best Time to Visit Canada
The best time for this luxury cross-country route is between late June and early September. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, all mountain roads in the Rockies are open, and the vibrant festivals in Montreal and Toronto are in full swing. If you prefer the magic of winter and world-class skiing, December to March is ideal, though the itinerary would focus more on winter sports and cozy lodge experiences.
Currency & Money
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). While major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) are accepted everywhere from luxury hotels to small boutiques, it is helpful to carry a small amount of cash for tips. Tipping is standard practice in Canada, with 15% to 20% being the norm for good service in restaurants and for tour guides. Contactless payment is widely available across the country.
Getting Around Canada
For a luxury itinerary, the best way to bridge the vast distances between Eastern and Western Canada is via domestic flights in premium cabins. Within the Ontario-Quebec corridor, VIA Rail’s Business and Prestige classes offer a relaxing and scenic alternative to flying. For regional exploration in the Rockies, a private luxury SUV rental or a chauffeured service is highly recommended for maximum flexibility and comfort.
