A reservation is a guaranteed seat on a specific train, assigned to you personally.

Whether you need a reservation or not depends on the train you're on and what type of ticket or rail pass you have. There are essentially three types of trains that run in Europe, each with different requirements.

The first type of train is 'Reservations Required.' This generally applies to high speed and overnight trains. Tickets sold for these trains always include a reservation. If you are traveling with a rail pass, you must purchase a seat reservation separately, at an additional cost. If you try to board these trains with your rail pass only, you will most likely get fined.

The second type of train is 'Reservations Recommended.' These trains offer you the possibility of a reserved seat, but a reservation isn't mandatory. Even on 'reservation recommended' trains, our tickets always include a reservation whenever possible. We feel it's a small price to pay for the convenience and peace of mind of knowing a reserved seat is waiting.

Finally, 'Non-Reservable' trains are trains where a reservation is NOT needed or possible. When purchasing a ticket for these trains, you will receive an 'open ticket', typically valid for any non-reservable train operating on a given route. If you're traveling with a rail pass, reservations are still not available. Simply get on board and sit in any open seat in the class of service of your pass.

In general, point-to-point tickets include a reservation whenever possible. It's when you're traveling with a rail pass that the question of reservations is most important. Please read our dedicated section on Rail Passes for more information.

When it comes to the ticket class, there are 4 ticket options:

Economy: Where you sleep in the seat and bring your own food or can buy some snacks (also no showers). Economy class has two rows of seats. The comfort of these chairs is enhanced with reclining footrests and they have enough legroom as well as a comfortable seat. During this class of train ride, passengers receive the opportunity to enjoy a spectacular view of the terrain from the Skyline Car, which is fitted with a panoramic glass dome ceiling, allowing passengers to always see the views as they travel.

Additional features of The Canadian Economy class include:
-Carry-on and checking baggage
-Comfortable and spacious seats
-Wi-Fi and power outlets
-Passengers can purchase affordable snacks and meals on board
-Bar service for passengers to choose local beers and wines, or non-alcoholic beverages

Economy Plus: Offers an upgraded experience compared to Economy Class. Passengers in this class benefit from enhanced seating comfort, including additional legroom and wider seats. This class is an excellent option for those seeking a bit more comfort and amenities at an affordable price.

Additional features of the Canadian Economy Plus include:
- Spacious seats equipped with a reclining backrest and headrest, and a power outlet.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Selection of affordable light meals, snacks & beverages for purchase throughout the trip.
- Carry-on baggage allowance: one (1) personal article of up to 11.5 kg (25 lb.), AND either one (1) large article of up to 23 kg (50 lb.) OR two (2) small articles of up to 11.5 kg (25 lb.)

Business Class: Is designed to cater to the needs of business travelers and passengers seeking a higher level of comfort and service. The seating in Business Class is spacious and offers increased legroom, adjustable headrests, and more privacy. Passengers in this class enjoy a welcome service, which includes a selection of beverages and snacks upon boarding. During the journey, complimentary hot meals, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, are served at your seat. Business Class passengers also have access to dedicated waiting areas in select stations and priority boarding. Additionally, they can take advantage of onboard amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reading materials. The overall experience in Business Class is tailored to provide a productive and comfortable environment for travelers.

Sleeper Plus Class: For long-distance travel, VIA Rail offers Sleeper Plus Class, providing passengers with the ultimate overnight experience. In this class, passengers have the option to choose from various types of sleeping accommodations, including private cabins and shared accommodations. Private cabins typically feature a bed, a small washroom with a sink and toilet, and a large window for enjoying the scenic views. Shared accommodations are available in the form of roomettes or bedrooms, with access to shared showers and restrooms on each car.

Sleeper Plus Class passengers have access to exclusive lounges at select stations, priority boarding, and gourmet meals served in the dining car. Bedding, towels, and toiletries are also provided, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing journey.

Additional Features of the Canadian Sleeper Plus Class include:

-Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, coffee/tea
-Access to the lounge in Vancouver or Toronto train station upon departure (with light snacks and drinks)
-Access to 2 panorama cars with glass ceilings
-All the bedding and towels
-Onboard entertainment - it's not much, but honestly, the views are so captivating that you don't need much more than that. There are scheduled musical acts, bingo games, beer tastings, etc. There are also a few cardboard games that you can play with. We didn't participate in most of the stuff, but we enjoyed the live band.

Sleeper Plus - Cabins (for 1, 2, or 4 people): This is a little room with a bunk bed, sink, and a tiny washroom, you share showers with a few other cabins, you get 3 freshly cooked meals included.

Cabin For Two: Each cabin features two armchairs, a small closet, fan, power outlet, a private toilet and a sink. At night, the cabin converts into comfortable bunk beds. Shared shower facilities are available close by.

Cabin For One: The smallest of the sleeper options, offering the privacy of a cabin with a seat during the day, converting to a cozy bed. Each cabin provides an electric fan, power outlet, private toilet and sink. Shared shower facilities are available.

Upper and Lower Berths: The most cost-effective sleeper option offered on the VIA Rail network. With a daytime layout of two double seats opposite each other, converting to a bunk bed with a privacy curtain. Shared washroom, toilet and shower facilities are available in each Sleeper Car. Also meals included in dining car and access to lounges & observations dome.

Note: Sleeper Plus is only available on The Canadian and The Ocean.

Prestige Class: This is a relatively new option and it's the true first class; you get a room with its own bathroom and shower, a concierge, first-row seats in the scenic cart, and all-inclusive food options including alcoholic drinks.

Additional features of the Canadian Prestige Class include:
-Daytime layout: a modular L-shaped couch
-Night-time layout: bed for two people facing the window
-Private washroom with shower
-Flat-screen TV with video selection
-Minibar
-Heated cabin floors and walls for a comfortable environment

Exclusive Service Benefits:
-Personalized service from the Prestige Concierge
-Access to the Prestige Park, Skyline and Panorama Viewing Cars
-Priority access to checked luggage
-Reservations in the Dining Car
-All-inclusive bar service

Note: Prestige Class is only available on The Canadian train.

Each VIA Rail class offers its own unique benefits, allowing passengers to tailor their travel experience to their specific needs. Whether you prioritize affordability, additional comfort, productivity, or a luxurious overnight experience, VIA Rail's classes provide options to enhance your journey across Canada's beautiful landscapes.

Answers to frequently asked questions about booking seat reservations.

Once the train departs, you can check with the conductor to see if there are any other available seating options. Please note that you should stay in the same class of service as your ticket or you may incur a surcharge. If you change seats and the seat you move to is reserved by another traveler, they will have priority. Of course, you will come across plenty of friendly travelers who may not mind switching seats with you if you ask politely.