Iconic Cities and the Amalfi Coast
Canada With touches of Italy’s celebrated food and wine throughout, this north-to-south journey through the heart of the country unveils the breathtaking beauty of il bel paese, from its historic cities to its timeless countryside.
Offer Highlights
- Visit vibrant Vancouver, where world-class dining and shopping unfold against a backdrop of ocean views, city beaches, and mountain peaks.
- Travel in style aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, a two-day luxury rail journey through the arid landscapes of British Columbia and the soaring peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
- Discover Jasper and Banff, where glacier-fed lakes, thundering waterfalls, and dramatic mountain scenery define some of Canada’s most iconic national parks.
- Trace the Icefields Parkway, pausing at ancient glaciers and sweeping viewpoints along one of the world’s most breathtaking drives.
- Set beneath towering peaks, Lake Louise is a true alpine gem, its vivid turquoise waters and serene surroundings leaving a lasting impression.
Itinerary
Continue east to Calgary for a final night. This vibrant city offers excellent shopping and sweeping views from the revolving restaurant atop the Calgary Tower. Return your hire car at the airport on day 13 in time to catch your flight home.
Our signature stay – Fairmont Palliser, Calgary,
What's included
When Can You Go?
The best time for a Rocky Mountaineer journey through the Canadian Rockies depends on the type of scenery and experience you want. The core operating season runs from April to October.
Late spring (April–May)
- Quieter departures and better availability
- Snow still visible on mountain peaks
- Rivers and waterfalls at their most powerful due to snowmelt
- Some higher-altitude areas may still be partially snow-covered
Early summer (June)
- Mix of lingering snow on peaks and green valleys
- Wildflowers begin to appear in alpine regions
- Good balance between scenery and crowd levels
Peak summer (July–August)
- Warmest and most stable weather
- Lakes such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake display their brightest turquoise colours
- Full access to viewpoints and mountain roads
- Also the busiest and most expensive period
Autumn (September–early October)
- Larch forests turn golden across the Canadian Rockies
- Clear air and excellent visibility for photography
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Cooler but still comfortable temperatures
Winter
- The Rocky Mountaineer does not operate in winter
- However, destinations such as Vancouver and Banff are popular for skiing and winter scenery
Overall recommendation
- Best overall timing: mid-September
- Best for lush green scenery: July–August
- Best for fewer crowds and autumn colours: September to early October