Train services: Eurostar Neo vs. Rocky Mountaineer
Quick Verdict
Eurostar Neo is a practical choice for city-to-city travel in Europe, while Rocky Mountaineer provides a luxury, scenic experience.
- Eurostar Neo offers more frequent services and connects major European cities, while Rocky Mountaineer focuses on scenic routes through the Canadian Rockies and American Southwest.
- Rocky Mountaineer is significantly more expensive than Eurostar Neo, but includes meals and accommodations.
- Both services offer accessibility features and sustainability initiatives.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Eurostar Neo | Rocky Mountaineer |
|---|---|---|
| Destination Cities and Routes | Connects London with major European cities. Serves France, Belgium, Netherlands, and Germany. | Canadian Rockies (Vancouver to Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper), American Southwest (Denver to Moab, transitioning to Canyon Spirit in 2026 and expanding to Salt Lake City). |
| Ticket Pricing and Fare Options | Standard, Standard Premier, Business Premier. Prices vary substantially. Advance booking recommended. Wheelchair discounts may apply. | Varies by route, service level (SilverLeaf, GoldLeaf), and season. Two-day SilverLeaf ~$2,500-2,900 CAD, GoldLeaf ~$3,500-3,900 CAD. Denver-Moab SilverLeaf ~$1,725 USD. |
| Onboard Amenities (Wi-Fi, Power Outlets) | Wi-Fi available. UK and European power sockets at every seat. USB sockets in Eurostar Plus and Premier classes. | Most carriages have plug sockets. Wi-Fi availability and reliability is not mentioned. |
| Luggage Allowance | To/From London: No weight limit, manageable luggage. Standard/Premier: 2 bags (85cm max), 1 hand luggage. Business Premier: 3 bags (85cm max), 1 hand luggage. Other Routes: Max 2 bags, €30 per extra bag. Max 75x53x30cm, 32kg per bag. | 2 checked bags (total 30kg, max 23kg per piece). Checked luggage not accessible during journey. Small day packs recommended. |
| Food and Beverage Options | Standard: Café Métropole (sandwiches, snacks, drinks). Standard Premier: Complimentary light meal and drinks. Business Premier: Michelin-starred menus, lounge access. | Included in ticket price. Local ingredients, regional specialties. GoldLeaf: Menu choices, 3-course lunch in dining car. SilverLeaf: Fewer options, meals at seat. Dietary restrictions accommodated. |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair spaces in Standard Premier and Business Premier. Discounted rates for wheelchair users. Ramps provided. Accessible restrooms. | Assistance for mobility issues, wheelchair lifts, ADA-compliant washrooms. Wheelchair width limit: 23 inches. Full-time wheelchair users accommodated in SilverLeaf only. |
| Environmental Impact and Sustainability | Aims for 100% renewable energy by 2030. Reducing plastic consumption and waste. Donates unsold food. | Focuses on protecting the environment, using resources wisely, and supporting local communities. Aims to decrease waste and carbon emissions, uses reusable tableware, energy-efficient equipment, and recycling programs. |
Overall Comparison
Destinations: Eurostar (Europe), Rocky Mountaineer (Rockies/Southwest); Price: Eurostar (Lower), Rocky Mountaineer (Higher); Scenery: Eurostar (Countryside), Rocky Mountaineer (Mountains/Canyons)
Pros and Cons
Eurostar Neo
Pros:
- Multiple destination cities and routes
- Various ticket pricing and fare options
- Onboard Wi-Fi
- Power outlets at every seat
- Different seating class options
- Dedicated luggage racks
- Food and beverage options available
- Views of the countryside
- Frequent services
- Accessibility for passengers with disabilities
- Sustainability initiatives in place
Cons:
- Wi-Fi connectivity can be unreliable
- Customer service responsiveness issues
Rocky Mountaineer
Pros:
- Spectacular scenery and views
- Comfortable seating in both SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf classes
- High-quality food and beverage options with local ingredients
- Accommodations for dietary restrictions
- Attentive onboard hosts and customer service
- Sustainability initiatives to reduce environmental impact
- Assistance for passengers with mobility issues
Cons:
- High ticket prices
- Potential for delays due to construction and cargo train backups
- Wi-Fi reliability not guaranteed
- Checked luggage is not accessible during the journey
- Limited meal options in SilverLeaf Service compared to GoldLeaf
User Experiences and Feedback
Eurostar Neo
What Users Love
- Comfortable seating, especially in Standard Premier and on E320 trains
- Availability of power outlets
- Scenic views of the countryside
- Accessibility features
Common Complaints
- Standard seating can be a little tight
- Unreliable Wi-Fi connectivity
- Negative feedback regarding customer service responsiveness
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- Seats on the new E320 trains are more comfortable and supportive than airline seats.
Rocky Mountaineer
What Users Love
- Comfortable seats with ample legroom
- Excellent views of mountains, canyons, lakes, forests, and wildlife
- High-quality food and beverage options
- Helpful and attentive onboard hosts
- Efforts to accommodate passengers with mobility issues
Common Complaints
- Delays due to construction and cargo train backups
- Uncertain Wi-Fi reliability
Value Perception
- Prices vary by route, service level, and season
- Prices are higher during peak season and lower during shoulder season
- Tickets are generally non-discountable
User Recommendations
- GoldLeaf seats are comparable to business class seats on airlines
- Menus focus on local ingredients and regional specialties
- Onboard hosts provide stories and information about the route