The world's longest continuous railway — seven legendary nights crossing Russia's immense heartland, taiga, and the shores of Lake Baikal.
The Trans-Siberian Railway is not just the world's longest railway — it's a philosophical journey. From the grand domes of Moscow to the Pacific port of Vladivostok, the train passes through the entire breadth of Russia's unfathomable landscape: birch forests, industrial cities, the mirror-like surface of Lake Baikal, and the endless Siberian steppe.
There are three main routes: the classic Trans-Siberian from Moscow to Vladivostok; the Trans-Mongolian, which branches south to Ulaanbaatar and Beijing; and the Trans-Manchurian, which takes a different path into China. Each offers a profound and distinct experience.
Most travellers don't ride non-stop. Instead, they break the journey at key cities — Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Irkutsk, and Ulan-Ude — spending days exploring before catching the next train eastward. This approach turns a railway ride into a multi-week expedition.
The departure point — Russia's grand capital. Allow 2–3 days to see the Kremlin, Red Square, and the extraordinary Moscow Metro.
The gateway to Siberia and burial site of the Romanovs. Marks the crossing of the Ural Mountains — the symbolic border between Europe and Asia.
Recommended stay: 1 daySiberia's largest city and cultural capital. Home to a world-class opera house — remarkable given its remote location.
Recommended stay: 1 dayThe most popular stopover — the "Paris of Siberia." Gateway to Lake Baikal, 60km away. Don't miss a night at Olkhon Island.
Recommended stay: 2–3 daysCapital of the Buryat Republic with Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and Russia's largest Lenin head. The Trans-Mongolian branches off here.
Recommended stay: 1 dayRussia's Pacific gateway and the dramatic terminus of the world's longest railway. A vibrant port city with superb seafood and Golden Horn bay views.
Final destinationMay–September for mild weather and long days. Winter (Dec–Feb) offers dramatic snow scenery but extreme cold.
Book via RZD (Russian Railways) website or agents. Book at least 60 days ahead for summer trains.
The dining car serves Russian staples. Stock up on instant noodles, bread, and snacks at station kiosks along the way.
WiFi is limited or absent. Download maps, e-books and offline content before you board. Embrace the disconnect.
Open-plan sleeper berths. The authentic experience — shared with locals, no privacy, maximum adventure.
4-berth private compartments. The most popular choice for independent travellers — comfortable and social.
2-berth private cabin with more space and privacy. Recommended for comfort-focused travellers.