tom d

the printed material makes via rail from toronto to montreal seem really nice for a vacationing couple. has anybody taken this trip and how was it. it costs about the same as by air but appears to be a more interesting way to go. i'd appreciate any comments. thanks tom

Vic

It's a nice ride. But if you are expecting great scenery forget it. Basically, its flat, no mountains a lot of farms.

laura

It depends on what time of year you are going, and if you've travelled by train through a lot of other countries. The trip winds from lakeside through farm country, and it is quite relaxing and the scenery can be pretty - it's especially stunning in summer and fall. But it's not like taking the train through Switzerland or Germany. Not as dramatic, no sweeping mountain etc. If you have the time and haven't seen much of Canada, it would be a good idea.

guylaine

If you are going from downtown to downtown, the train is much more convenient, since both the Toronto and Montreal train stations are right in the hearts of their cities. If you fly, you have to either bus it or cab it into civilization, which adds many more dollars and much more time to the trip. Works out to be about the same time in fact.

Donna

So true...train eliminates the expense of taxis and hassle of getting to and from the airports to downtown. Lots of hotels in each city within walking distance of the train stations. No matter where you're going, seeing the scenery along the way is better...

Brian in Atlanta

How long is the train ride from Toronto to Montreal? Is the reliability/service as bad as on Amtrack? Is there similar service between Montreal and Quebec City? Thanks.

guylaine

Toronto to Montreal on the express train is about 4 hours 15 min. Long route, with stops at various towns along the way is about 5 and 1/2 I think. I can't compare the reliability with Amtrak. In general, it's much better than it used to be, and it's usually on time.

sue

Not any scenery to see. Basically if the plane is faster take a plane. I would think the time would be similar counting check in etc. The train is more comfortable though. Don't go for the scenery though, there really isn't any. I went from Toronto through Montreal right to Quebec City and there was nothing to see the whole way. <BR>

Brian Kilgore

I took this train from Toronto to Montreal and back once a week,more or less, for two years. Buy your tickets in advance, to save some money. Do not spend the extra for First Class unless you are rich. Earlier postings about scenery are right; not great but better than the tops of clouds. If you want to be downtown in Montreal and Toronto, it is much more convenient than airplanes. Buy some food to take on the tain. Food from the service carts is OK, but not any better than OK, and sometimes it takes forever for the attendant to arrive at your seat. The fast food places in Central Station in Montreal are excellent. In Toronto, you'll need to look a bit harder for good on-train snacks. Fastest trains are four hours; others, making more stops, can run up to about six hours. In good weather, trains are usually within 15 minutes of being on time. If I was going to Montreal again, I'd take the train, but I no longer commute. For a tourist, driving is even better, though. <BR>BAK <BR>

james loken

Via Rail has recently introduced a new overnight train service between Toronto and Montreal, leaving just before midnight and arriving in early morning. The trains are refurbished stainless steel Budd cars from the 1950's and include sleeping cars and a lounge/dome car. It's a retro style rail experience and a nice way for travelers with limited time to visit Canada to get from one city to the other while saving on a hotel.

Susan

I have done the trip from Montreal-Toronto often as I used to live in Montreal. I have also flown several times between these cities. The advice you have been given so far is pretty accurate. By the time one gets out to and back from airports, if your destination is downtown, you are better off on the train. Schedules are very reliable and there are several trains a day in each direction. Booking 7 days ahead is a considerable saving. Scenery is not a reason to take this train. Some of the trains stop more than others so check this out. Minimum time is 4.5 hours but it could be closer to 6 if you take the 'milk run'. If money is no problem I WOULD get a first class ticket, more comfort, better food. However, regular class is entirely adequate and comfortable but I always bring food/drinks. They are available but they're pretty indifferent.

Daniel Williams

I'm pretty much in agreement with other travellers...it's a good way to get from Montreal to Toronto and vice-versa. The views are mostly unspectacular, although the shoreline of Lake Ontario can be quite lovely. I also enjoy seeing the waterfront at Kingston and the waterfall at Belleville. The trip takes approx. 4 hours on the EXPRESS train which leaves both cities at 5pm. I'd recommend taking the EXPRESS if you can. <BR> <BR>As for Amtrak vs. VIA comparison: having taken Amtrak many times, in my opinion VIA Rail is nicer-looking than most Amtrak trains and moderately more reliable (although I think Amtrak has gotten much more reliable of late). The seats and cars are generally cleaner and the windows are more panoramic on VIA. Food is comparable Amtrak vs. VIA. <BR> <BR>Good luck and have fun! Montreal and Toronto are great cities to visit! <BR> <BR>Dan.

Tanya

I take the train from Toronto to Montreal often to see my sister. If you are a student I would get an International Student Card (just need a picture the size of a passport and some proof that you are enrolled in school). It is only $16 and I saved $50 on my ticket. Also I would stop at a store to bring pop, snacks, etc on the train. The scenery is flat, but there are lots of interesting contrasts to see, farms to cities, wetland to upland forests. I enjoy and choose it over driving my car to Montreal any time. <BR> <BR>Tanya