Train de Charlevoix
A scenic train journey along the St. Lawrence River, offering breathtaking views and a unique hydrogen-powered experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Green landscapes and pleasant weather
Train de Charlevoix
Best Time
Green landscapes and pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic train journey along the St. Lawrence River, offering breathtaking views and a unique hydrogen-powered experience.
"The scenery is amazing and the staff on train was pretty nice, I would recommend people do this activity."
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Seats aren't assigned online; arrive 45 mins early for the best river-side views.
🍎 Pack Your Own Snacks
No food or drinks are served onboard, so bring your own provisions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fleuve Saint-Laurent Views
River side of the train
Breathtaking panoramas of the St. Lawrence River and charming coastal villages unfold along the route.
Baie-Saint-Paul Beach
Baie-Saint-Paul
A picturesque beach perfect for a stroll or relaxation after your train journey.
Hydrogen-Powered Train Experience
Quebec City to Baie-Saint-Paul route
Experience North America's first hydrogen-powered passenger train for a quiet, green journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Prime Seats
Pack Your Own Provisions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Seats aren't assigned online; arrive 45 mins early for the best river-side views.
🍎 Pack Your Own Snacks
No food or drinks are served onboard, so bring your own provisions.
💰 Consider Table Bookings
Tables offer more space for groups but are significantly more expensive than standard seats.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The river-side views are spectacular, especially during fall.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Seats aren't assigned online; arrive 45 mins early for the best river-side views.
🍎 Pack Your Own Snacks
No food or drinks are served onboard, so bring your own provisions.
💰 Consider Table Bookings
Tables offer more space for groups but are significantly more expensive than standard seats.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The river-side views are spectacular, especially during fall.
🚶♀️ Explore Baie-Saint-Paul
Enjoy the charming town, its art galleries, boutiques, and beach. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for the Train de Charlevoix are mixed, with many praising the stunning St. Lawrence River views and the unique hydrogen train experience. However, several travelers found the journey to be expensive for what is offered, citing a lack of onboard services and dated train interiors. The seating arrangement and the 'final sale' ticket policy also drew criticism.
"Terrible experience, our friends booked a seat 2for 331.00 mountain side because they were told they were no more seats on the seaway side . We call to join our friends mini getaway , we were told that no more seats were available only tables. The tables approximately 12” wide with old needing to be reupholstered seats cost $1461.00 for 4 people. We asked can for the seaway side, that’s an extra $40. + but none were left the train was full, only mountain side, bring your lunch nothing is served, and do not expect any service for napkins , utensils etc. none provided. We asked since we are now owners of 4 tickets can you please cancel our friends and we shall sit together. Nope all tickets are final sales. Ouch that’s truly, truly upsetting.
To make matters worse, the train was barely occupied, they were plenty of seats and on both sides.
Bathrooms need a paint job, absolutely no service or help with your carry on and lunch cooler to board on or off. Sadly an elderly man fell down the step it was horrible.
FYI
The drive from the station to La Malbaie is approx. 1.5hrs the train ride at 30km per hr takes 4.5/5hrs
They want us to visit and encourage Canadian economy.,.. SERIOUSLY RECONSIDERING MY FUTURE getaway’s.
We did move on the seaside side on our own, guests that had seats moved to tables without any concern.
Do not do this , there was not one person on board happy."
ghislaine lemieux
"The staff are polite - but we didn’t enjoy the experience. It was a boring ride ! There is diesel smell all through out the journey - The mountain side ride is super dull !! Mountain is too close and so there is nothing but trees to see - the one point in the review is for lakeside view - the price doesn’t justify the experience !"
Bhargavee Koduri
"We caught the train as a family to Baie Saint Paul. The train itself is comfortable and clean and the service is very good. The boarding experience was just slow and painful given everyone had electronic tickets and the train is only two carriages long.
The just over two hour ride between rivet and mountains was very enjoyable. My kids even looked up from their phones a solid three to four times each. End of August the weather was warm, the flowers are out and everything was looking very green.
The train station was also very nice and located close to the centre of town and the rest of the section.
All in all we had a great time. A train ride like this really deserves and older train but that is really my only niggle. Great time had by all."
Karl Crisafulli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The train departs from Quebec City and travels to Baie-Saint-Paul and La Malbaie. You can drive to the departure station in Quebec City or fly into Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport.
Information on parking availability at the departure stations is not widely detailed, but it's advisable to check the official Train de Charlevoix website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the Train de Charlevoix offers routes that can originate from Quebec City, providing a scenic journey along the St. Lawrence River.
The train journey from Quebec City to Baie-Saint-Paul takes approximately 2 hours, offering a leisurely pace to enjoy the scenery.
While the train itself is a form of public transport, reaching the departure points might require other modes of transport depending on your starting location. Driving or flying into Quebec City are common options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, with standard seats and more expensive table bookings available. Some reviews suggest it's quite pricey for the experience offered. +1
Yes, tickets can be booked online, but seats are not assigned. It's recommended to arrive early for the best seating choices.
Yes, there are standard seats and more premium table bookings. River-side seats are highly sought after for their views.
The train operates seasonally, typically from spring through fall. Check the official schedule for specific operating dates.
Tickets are generally final sales, so ensure your travel dates are firm before purchasing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The train offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River, coastal landscapes, and picturesque villages. The mountain side can be less engaging with just trees.
No, food and drinks are not served on the train. Passengers are advised to bring their own.
Yes, the train is equipped with bathrooms, though some reviews mention they could use an update.
The ride from Quebec City to La Malbaie can take around 4.5 to 5 hours, significantly longer than driving the same route.
Families can enjoy the scenic ride, though some children might get bored if not engaged. Bringing entertainment is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The river-side of the train offers the most dramatic and scenic photo opportunities, capturing the St. Lawrence River and coastline.
Photos from the mountain side are generally less impressive, often showing just trees. It's recommended to prioritize river-side seating for better visuals.
Morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the beauty of the Charlevoix region. Consider the direction of the sun relative to the river.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be mindful of other passengers' privacy.
Yes, the hydrogen-powered train itself is a unique subject for photography, representing sustainable tourism.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since no food is served onboard, packing a generous supply of snacks and drinks is essential for keeping everyone happy and energized. The train does have bathrooms, which is a plus for families. Consider booking seats on the river side for the most visually engaging experience for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider if the train journey aligns with your overall budget for the trip. If you're looking for a more economical way to see the Charlevoix region, exploring options like driving or taking local buses might be more suitable. However, if the unique experience of a scenic train ride is a priority, planning ahead and being mindful of the costs associated with seating can help manage your budget.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for morning or late afternoon light to enhance the scenic beauty. Be prepared for the train's slow pace, which can be advantageous for capturing steady, sweeping vistas. While the hydrogen train is an interesting subject in itself, the real photographic draw is the natural scenery.
Remember that seats are not assigned, so arriving early to secure a prime river-side spot is crucial for photographers. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Route: What to Expect
While the river side is undeniably the star, the mountain side offers a different, though less dramatic, view. Some find it 'super dull' with only trees to see, suggesting that securing a river-side seat is crucial for maximizing the visual experience.
It's important to note that the train's pace is significantly slower than driving, with a journey that can take several hours. This extended travel time is part of the charm for many, allowing for a more immersive experience, but it's something to consider when planning your itinerary.
Navigating Tickets and Seating
For groups or those seeking a more comfortable and spacious experience, table bookings are available. However, these come at a considerably higher price point compared to standard seats, a factor that has led to some dissatisfaction among visitors who felt the overall value didn't match the cost.
It's also crucial to be aware that tickets are generally considered final sales, so double-checking your travel dates and times before purchasing is highly recommended to avoid any issues.
The Hydrogen Train Initiative
This innovative approach to rail travel not only reduces the environmental impact but also contributes to a more serene journey, as hydrogen engines are typically quieter than traditional diesel ones. Travelers have the opportunity to experience this cutting-edge technology while enjoying the same stunning scenery that the Train de Charlevoix is known for.
The hydrogen train represents a forward-thinking step for the region's tourism, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and offering a unique selling point for visitors interested in eco-friendly travel options. It's a testament to how heritage railways can adapt and innovate for the future.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit