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7 Day East Coast Train Explorer Fall Colours
Highlights: Toronto, Montreal, Halifax
Trip start: Toronto
Trip end: Halifax
Trip Available:
From 05-Jan-2010
Price Range from $700,000pp *
* USD per person based on 2-4 people, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.

National Geographic Adventure Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth '98.33 Client Satisfaction Rating'

Winner National Geographic 'Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth'
2008 & 2009

Trip Summary
Map of Itinerary
Expand [+]

See the top sites of Toronto on a city sightseeing and harbor tour followed by a gourmet dinner in the top of the CN tower. Then take the train to Montreal and enjoy the cosmopolitain city. View the magnifcent Fall colors in the Laurentian mountains as you take a day trip which includes a cruise along the St Lawrence river. Let the sound of the tracks lull you to sleep as you have a restful sleep in a private cabin onboard the overnight train to Halifax. Marvel at the beautiful countryside as you cross through New Brunswick and into Nova Scotia. Visit the UNESCO town of Lunenburg outside of Halifax and learn about the rich history of the city on a guided tour before being transfered to the airport for your departure.

With 24/7 local support, you can relax knowing that every little detail will be looked after for you.


Day Activities Hotel
Day 1
Toronto
  • Toronto: Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
  • Global: Pre-departure Materials
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Toronto: Optional Evening Entertainment Activities
  • Meal at 360 - CN Tower - Dinner: 3 course prix fixe menu
Fairmont Royal York (4*)
(Alt: SoHo Metropolitan)
(Alt:
Day 2
Toronto
  • Shared - 1/2 d Toronto City Tour and Harbour Cruise (2hr) - Coach
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Optional Activities: Toronto
  • Dinner (not included)
Fairmont Royal York (4*)
(Alt: SoHo Metropolitan
Day 3
Montreal
  • Local taxi
  • Train - Toronto - Montreal [5 hrs] - Train 1st class
  • Lunch (included)
  • Montreal: Self-Guided - Hop-on Hop-off Tour - Double Decker
  • Dinner (not included)
Hotel St Paul
(Alt: Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth)
(Alt: ) (B)
Day 4
Halifax
  • Shared - Laurentian Mountains (9 hours) - Coach/Cruise
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Train - Montreal - Halifax [Overnight ] - Sleeper touring - cabin for Two with shower
VIA Rail - The Ocean 
Day 5
Halifax
  • Activities onboard Train to Halifax
  • Lunch (included)
  • Local taxi
  • At Leisure
  • Dinner (not included)
Marriott Harbourfront
(Alt:
Day 6
Halifax
  • Halifax: Shared - Lunenburg & Mahone Bay (6 hrs) - Coach
  • Lunch (not included)
  • Self-Guided - hop-on hop-off city tour - Coach
  • Dinner (not included)
Marriott Harbourfront
(Alt:
Day 7
Halifax
  • Shared - 1/2 d City tour with Titanic 100 Year Experience (3hrs) - Coach
  • Transfer - Private - Airport - Sedan/Driver
  • Kensington Cares - 2
Depart (Int`l Airport) (standard) 
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive

Trip Options
All of our itineraries may be customized as you wish, add extra days, change a hotel, see different sights. Contact one of our expert consultants for your free, no-obligation vacation plan.

Itinerary

Day 1 Toronto

Toronto is a cosmopolitan city with a wonderful network of parks, recreational and cultural facilities. It is the largest city in Canada, with a population consisting of over 2.5 million people. Toronto is the home of seven professional sports teams and the third largest English-speaking theatre district in the world, behind New York and London. It is one of the world's most multicultural cities, home to more than 80 ethnic communities (half of people living in Toronto were born outside Canada). A dominant force in the business and economy of the nation, it is also the cultural centre of English-speaking Canada. Toronto is known as a city of neighborhoods. Districts are often centered one of the main streets (Queen, College, Bloor etc), and packed tightly together, with each having something different to offer each visitor. The relative compactness of these neighborhoods makes exploring on foot easy and pleasant, especially in the warmer months.

Meet your driver for a private airport transfer with vehicle and driver.

You will be provided with a pre-departure package which will include all necessary information that you will need for your trip including materials such as vouchers, maps, train tickets (if relevant) etc.

There is always plenty on in terms of theatre and entertainment in Toronto. All of the main theatres and entertainment venues in Toronto can be found at http://www.showmetoronto.com/toronto_theatres.htm

Enjoy a prix fixe menu at the 360 restaurant at the CN Tower, one of Toronto's finest landmarks featuring unforgettable food combined with a magnificent revolving view of Toronto more than 351 metres (1,151 ft) below. 360 offers market-fresh cuisine, featuring regional ingredients to ensure an incomparable culinary experience. You can take the elevator up to the top of the tower on a complimentary basis since you are having a meal at the restaurant. (includes 3 courses and all taxes and gratuity).

Toronto is a city that has grown up around this grand landmark - The Fairmont Royal York Hotel (4*). It is just steps away from the hub of Toronto and a major access port to Canada is Union Station. If you're here to relax and take in the sights, this hotel has everything you need; luxurious surroundings, refined guest rooms and suites, and a knowledgeable Concierge are some of the services and amenities you will find while staying at The Fairmont Royal York Hotel.

Overnight at Fairmont Royal York (4*).


Toronto
Toronto
Dundas Square at Night
Dundas Square at Night
The Fairmont Royal York
The Fairmont Royal York
Day 2 Toronto

Enjoy a 2 hour shared tour of Toronto taking in all of the highlights including the Eaton Centre, Chinatown, CN Tower, as well as the Old and New City Halls with opportunity for pictures along the way. You will be picked up from your city centre hotel and dropped off at the departure point for your Harbour & Island Boat Tour. Take advantage of the lakeside location of Toronto and enjoy a 1 hour cruise in the harbour with a visit to Centre Island (weather allowing). Take in the city skyline and changing views en route as you listen to the on board commentary.

Enjoy some time exploring the many things to see and do in the cosmopolitan city of Toronto. If you are interested in art and culture, be sure to visit the newly expanded Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) which has an extensive permanent collection as well as ever changing temporary exhibitions. The newly revamped Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) showcases the best of Canadian and international art, all housed under an impressive building designed by Frank Gehry of Guggenheim fame - consider a private guided tour of the gallery. The Ontario Science centre is a fascinating museum which appeals to both adults and children. The Distillery district, one of Toronto's most historical areas makes for a pleasant morning or afternoon stroll as you can check out the many artisanal studios and galleries or take a shared or a private tour. There are often live musical performances on weekends during the summer. For shopaholics, Toronto's Rodeo drive equivalent is along Bloor street, on either side of Yonge street. Here you will find all of the top boutique names from Gucci to Tiffany's to Prada as well as the upscale department store Holt Renfrew. For a more eclectic shopping experience, head to Queen street west, where there are many independently run stores. Alternatively, escape it all and take the short ferry crossing over to the Toronto Islands where you can enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk or through the residential area with many traditional beach style houses. With a no car policy on the island, it is indeed a tranquil escape from the metropolis of Toronto. If you would like to do a tour, consider a shared or private walking tour of one of the interesting neighbourhoods of the city. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if any of these are of interest to you.

Overnight at Fairmont Royal York (4*).


Toronto Island Ferry
Toronto Island Ferry
Royal Ontario Museum
Royal Ontario Museum
Day 3 Montreal

Montreal is the cultural capital of Quebec and the second largest city in Canada. For over a century and a half, Montreal was the industrial and financial centre of Canada, leaving a legacy of architecture and wealth. It has a well-deserved reputation as one of the liveliest cities in North America, with an inordinate number of attractive, fashionably dressed people. Tourism is centered in Old Montreal's historic and quaint riverfront, downtown's shopping, and museums, and the Latin Quarter's restaurants, boutiques, cafes, and pubs. Summer brings a seemingly endless stream of festivals, celebrations, and musical events.

Transfer using a local taxi (available and economical).

Enjoy the train ride from Toronto to Montreal. Train duration is approximately 5hr.

Enjoy seeing the city on board the hop-on hop-off bus that takes you to all of the major sites of the city including the architectural masterpiece that is Notre Dame bascilica, Science centre, casino, the shopping street of St. Catherine's street, St. Joseph's oratory (Montreal's most popular cultural attraction), the wide open green space at Mount Royal Park, Crescent Street and Dorchester square. Stop off and spend time at any of the sites en route and simply hop on the next bus to continue your exploration of the city.

Hotel St Paul is located in the old Montreal district. You will be sure to love the proximity to St Catherine Street Shops, Old Montreal attractions, the Subway and all highways. The hotel is a heritage building, beautifully restored and features surprisingly modern and serene interior. The design awards are many, but it is the comfort and highly personalized service that completes the experience for guests. Rest and relax in one of 120 guestrooms and suites, experience the culinary delights of the award winning restaurant Cube and work it off in the gym with a personal trainer.

Overnight at Hotel St Paul.


Montreal
Montreal
St. Joseph's Oratory
St. Joseph's Oratory
Hotel St Paul
Hotel St Paul
Day 4 Halifax

Halifax is a city in Canada, which was the capital of the province of Nova Scotia. It was the largest city in Atlantic Canada until it was amalgamated into Halifax Regional Municipality in 1996. Halifax Harbour is among the largest natural harbours in the world, and settlement here by the British was originally planned with strategic military protection in mind. Local sights include Halifax Citadel, Pier 21 (Canada's Ellis Island), Maritime Museum, and a tidy collection of parks, shops and restaurants. The Waterfront in particular has a great variety of historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and other entertainment.

Enjoy a full day shared excursion to the pretty Laurentian Mountains. After departing Montreal, the first port of call is St Agathe where you will get to embark on a 50 minute cruise along the Lac Des Sables (Sandy Lake). Enjoy the spectacular views of the seven islands and homes of the rich and famous before continuing on to the European style village of Mont St. Sauveur. Enjoy some free time at leisure for lunch (not included) or some shopping. Mid to late afternoon sees you returning to Montreal.

The Montréal-Halifax train makes an overnight journey along the St. Lawrence River before crossing the provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Year round, choose the relaxing ambience and attentive service of budget travel in Economy class, or opt for Sleeper class for more cosy overnight accommodations. If you upgrade to Sleeper Touring class (available mid-June to mid-October), you’ll also enjoy delicious meals included in the price of your ticket, exclusive access to the Park car and informal presentations and activities on the Maritimes (not applicabale during Christmas season). As the train departs from Montréal in the evening, you’ll watch the sun set over fertile farmlands carpeting the southern shores of the St. Lawrence River and the Matapédia Valley.

Enjoy an overnight journey by train with VIA Rail on The Ocean- one of the finest train services in the world. There are 3 options to choose from:

- Economy class - Comfortable seats with room to move, stretch and relax. Pillows and blankets provided during the night. Meals, snacks, hot and cold drinks, and alcoholic beverages available for purchase.

- Sleeper class - In stainless steels cars, enjoy cosy accommodations in a berth, a cabin for one, two, three or four people. Special in-room touches, including shower kit, bottled water and ear plugs are provided. Full-course and light meals, snacks, hot and cold drinks, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

- Sleeper Touring class (available from mid-June to mid-October). Cosy accommodations in a cabin for two or a cabin for two with shower. Delicious meals highlighting regional specialties. Exclusive access to the Park car, with its lounges and 360-degree panoramic views.

Overnight at VIA Rail - The Ocean.


Halifax
Halifax
Laurentian Mountains
Laurentian Mountains
VIA Rail
VIA Rail
Day 5 Halifax

The train will have covered hundreds of kilometres while you will have slept, and upon waking, your eyes will alight upon Chaleur Bay in all its misty, early-morning glory. After breakfast, wander to the Park car to learn about lobster traps, ghost ships and Acadian traditions (for those in Sleeper Touring class only). Take in the beautiful Fall colors as you whisk through the countryside.

Transfer using a local taxi (available and economical).

Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Located in downtown Halifax, the Marriott Harbourfront hotel overlooks the harbour and connects to Casino Nova Scotia via an indoor skyway. The hotel is 1 block from the shops and restaurants of Historic Properties and offers spacious rooms with harbor or city views. Guestrooms feature luxury Revive Collection bedding with down comforters, turndown service, and both high-speed and wireless Internet access. The hotel has a 5,000-square-foot spa with personal trainers, and yoga and Pilates classes. Enjoy a dip in the indoor pool, soak in the spa tub, or head for the Scottish pub.

Overnight at Marriott Harbourfront.


Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
Day 6 Halifax

Join a kilted guide in "New Scotland" for an enchanting shared, half day tour of Lunenburg and Mahone Bay. Explore the South Shore filled with history of fishing, boat building, the pirates of 'Oak Island' and the rum running along this craggy coastline. Lunenburg is home to Nova Scotia's largest fishing fleet, Lunenburg Academy, extraordinary architecture, supreme shops and more. From Lunenburg, continue with a drive through Mahone Bay, famous for its churches along the shore and its picturesque beauty. There will be plenty of time for exploring these remarkable seaside towns before you are brought back to Halifax at the end of the day.

Enjoy seeing the highlights of the city of Halifax at your own pace on board a hop-on hop-off coach. Board the authentic British Double Decker at any one of 15 designated pick up locations around the city and "hop-on" or "hop-off" as many times as you would like during that day. Highlights that you will see and can explore at leisure on the tour include: Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, historic properties, Duke Street, Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, Province House, authentic british double decker bus with Halifax Clock Tower in background, Alexander Keith’s Nova Scotia Brewery, Pier 21, Cruise Ship Pavillion, Pier 20, Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, Point Pleasant Park, Golden Gates, Our Lady of Sorrows Cemetery, Halifax Public Gardens, Museum of Natural History, Spring Garden Road Shopping District, Halifax Citadel National Historic Park and Grand Parade and St. Paul's Church.

Overnight at Marriott Harbourfront.


Lobster traps in Lunenburg
Lobster traps in Lunenburg
Nymph Fountain in Halifax Gardens
Nymph Fountain in Halifax Gardens
Day 7 Halifax

Join a kilted driver/guide for a delightful shared, 3 hour tour taking in the highlights of Halifax which will provide an excellent overview of the city. This history and anecdote filled ride through the streets of Halifax will introduce you to one of North America’s most unique and captivating cities. Hear of Halifax’s war years and of the exploits and heroism of the citizens who lived through the devastating Halifax Explosion. View Historic properties, the Spring Garden Road area, Province House, Old Town Clock, St. Paul’s Church, City Hall, Grand Parade, Government House, the busy port, Victorian Halifax Public Gardens, residential areas, and much more. Then enjoy the tour as you are taken to the Titanic Burial site. Learn about the lives of the people buried here and the role Halifax played in the days after the sinking of the Titanic. (Includes The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site (admission included) and a stop at the Titanic Grave Sites].

Meet your driver for a private airport transfer with vehicle and driver.

Kensington Tours donates a portion of proceeds to our charitable initiative www.kensingtoncares.com which supports education-based initiatives in disadvantaged communities.

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport) (standard).


Old Town Clock
Old Town Clock
Kensington Cares
Kensington Cares

Trip Includes
Guaranteed departure – Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

Trip Excludes
Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.