Grand Canadian Explorer – duration: 21 days / 20 Nights

Day 1: Arrive in Montreal

On arrival, you’ll transfer to your hotel in the heart of this European-influenced city.

Day 2: Montréal

You’ll begin to understand why Montréal is often called Canada's' Capital of Culture' during a half day downtown tour, taking in Vieux Port, Mont Royal and the magnificent Notre Dame Basilica. This afternoon is at leisure.

Day 3: Montréal to Ottawa

Cross the Ottawa River and arrive into Ottawa where you’ll enjoy an orientation tour of the Canadian capital including the UNESCO listed Rideau Canal, Confederation Park and the colourful Byward Market.

Day 4: Ottawa

Today is free to explore at your own pace. We recommend a tour of the Parliament Buildings (free entry, must be pre-booked).

Day 5: Ottawa to Toronto

A four-hour train journey awaits as you journey south to Toronto. Pass through landscapes dotted with small villages surrounded by maple forests and follow the shores of Lake Ontario before arriving in the modern lakeside city of Toronto.

Day 6: Toronto

Tour all the highlights of Canada’s largest city, including Old and New City Hall, the trendy Yorkville area, High Park and the Harbourfront with its impressive skyline. Lunch today will be in the revolving restaurant of the CN Tower, with its amazing views of the city and Ontario Lake.

Day 7: Toronto

On your way to the magnificent Niagara Falls, you'll travel through the rich and fertile Niagara Peninsula with time to explore picturesque Niagara-on-the-Lake. After a look at the impressive Whirlpool Rapids, you'll board the Hornblower Niagara for a boat ride to the thundering Horseshoe Falls. The day ends with a tour and wine tasting at Rockway Vineyards before returning to Toronto.

Day 8: Toronto to Banff

Fly west to Calgary and travel on to Banff in the Canadian Rockies.

Day 9: Banff

A morning tour of this lovely town includes the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, the classic viewpoint of Surprise Corner along Tunnel Mountain Drive, Bow Falls and the wind-shaped rock formations known as the Hoodoos. Explore at your own pace in the afternoon – perhaps take the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain (local charge).

Day 10: Banff

On today’s free day, your Tour Manager will suggest a range of optional excursions that include the Valley of Ten Peaks, Lake Louise, the ‘Oh Canada Eh?’ musical show, or even a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs (all local charge).

Day 11: Banff to Jasper

Depart on the Rockies’ most scenic road, the Icefields Parkway, keeping an eye out for local wildlife such as bighorn sheep, moose, elk and maybe even a bear. Stops will be made en route at Bow and Peyto Lakes as well as at the Columbia Icefield. After lunch at Sunwapta Falls Resort, continue on to Jasper.

Day 12: Jasper

Travel through the rugged scenery of Jasper to Pyramid and Patricia Lakes, with breathtaking views as you cross the valley to Maligne Canyon. At Maligne Lake, you’ll have free time to relax, take a walk, or cruise on the lake (cruise local charge).

Day 13: Jasper to Clearwater

Leaving Jasper behind, you’ll reach Mount Robson Park, dominated by Mount Robson - the second highest peak in the Rockies. Heading south, you’ll reach the rustic resort of Alpine Meadows. On arrival, there’s time to explore Wells Grey Park.

Day 14: Clearwater to Whistler

Travelling through the land of the Gold Rush Trail and the Old Caribou Wagon Road, you’ll reach Lillooet and continue through coastal mountains to the resort town of Whistler.

Day 15: Whistler

You’ll have a day at leisure in Whistler today, with optional trips including the Peak 2 Peak Gondola or a visit to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (local charge).

Day 16: Whistler to Victoria

Follow the scenic Howe Sound on the Sea to Sky Highway with a stop at Shannon Falls. From Vancouver, take the ferry to Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island and arrive into British Columbia’s capital, Victoria, late afternoon.

Day 17: Victoria

Today’s tour of Victoria includes the Inner Harbour, Beacon Hill Park, Chinatown and the Parliament. You’ll also visit the stunning 50-acre Butchart Gardens. The afternoon is free for relaxation or more sightseeing.

Day 18: Victoria to Vancouver

Returning by ferry, transfer to downtown Vancouver and tour the city’s key sights including English Bay, Canada Place, Gastown and the vibrant market.

Day 19: Vancouver

This morning, cross Lions Gate Bridge to the North Shore and visit Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park, 230ft above the Capilano River. Take the gondola high up Grouse Mountain where lunch will be served with a breathtaking view of the serene West Coast rainforest.

Day 20: Vancouver

Today is at leisure to explore the markets and boutiques of this beautiful city before a farewell dinner tonight with your fellow travellers.

Day 21: Vancouver

Transfer to the airport for your return flight.