The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the world’s most famous train journeys, and it’s an incredible adventure for those who are ready to explore the vast landscapes of Russia. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your own journey. Let’s dive in!
Step One: Planning Your Route
The classic Trans-Siberian route spans 9,288 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok. If you’re looking for different options, there are two popular alternatives: the Trans-Mongolian (which goes from Moscow to Beijing, passing through Mongolia) and the Trans-Manchurian (also Moscow to Beijing, but bypassing Mongolia). All three routes take around 6-7 days without stops.
Most travelers start in Moscow and head east, but if you’re keen on meeting more locals and possibly improving your Russian, you could start in Vladivostok or Beijing and travel west. This way, you’ll likely encounter fewer tourists and experience the train as it’s used by locals going about their daily lives.
Beijing is probably the better starting or ending point since it offers more travel connections. From Vladivostok, your options for onward travel are limited—either fly back to Moscow (around $250 USD) or take a ferry to Japan or South Korea (prices start around $400 USD).
Keep in mind that you will probably need visas for Russia, Mongolia, and China, depending on your nationality. It’s best to check with the consulate of your home country a few months before your trip to understand the requirements.
Step Two: Where to Stop Along the Way
Unless you’re keen on spending an entire week straight on the train, I highly recommend making a few stops along the way. The Trans-Siberian gives you a unique chance to see more of Russia beyond Moscow and St. Petersburg, and some of my best experiences came from the stops I made.
- Kazan
This city is technically a detour from the main route, but it’s worth it. Kazan, which is over 1,000 years old, has a beautiful Kremlin (a UNESCO World Heritage site) that’s more charming than Moscow’s. You’ll find a mix of Islamic and Russian Orthodox influences, with a large mosque as a focal point. I spent hours exploring the Kremlin, including the Museum of Islam, a natural history museum, and the Russian Orthodox church. - Yekaterinburg
Famous for being the site where Russia’s last tsar, Nicholas II, and his family were executed, Yekaterinburg was a must-see for me, given my interest in Russian history. The Ganina Yama memorial, where the royal family’s bodies were discarded, is now a holy site with seven chapels, one for each family member. It was moving to see the photos of the family’s daily life, making their tragic end feel much more personal. - Krasnoyarsk
While the city itself didn’t impress me much, my reason for stopping was the Stolby Nature Reserve. This reserve is full of fascinating volcanic rock formations scattered throughout the forests. Despite freezing temperatures and snow in late November, I wasn’t the only one hiking through the reserve. My guide kept things lively with stories and even shared a bit of cognac to keep us warm. - Irkutsk
Irkutsk is the gateway to Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest lake. If you’re short on time, you can visit the nearby town of Listvyanka for a day trip. But if you’ve got at least 3 days, head to Olkhon Island, the largest island on the lake. The town of Khuzhir feels like it’s stuck in time, with dirt roads and cows wandering through the streets. I spent a day exploring the island, dipping my hand in the frozen lake, sliding on the icy shores, and enjoying the fresh snow. - Ulan Ude
Located near the Mongolian border, Ulan Ude is the capital of Buryatia, home to Russia’s largest indigenous group, the Buryats. Though I only spent a day and a half here, I visited the Buryat Museum and an open-air museum just outside the city. I also took a trip to the Ivolga Buddhist Monastery, where I learned about Buddhism and the local culture.
Step Three: Booking Your Tickets
If you’re on a tight schedule, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance. You can book tickets up to 45 days ahead through travel agencies, which can save you time. However, if you’re more flexible, you can buy tickets as you go. Just be aware that some trains might already be sold out, and English isn’t widely spoken at the ticket counters. Also, be mindful of time zone differences—train schedules are listed in Moscow time, not local time.
When booking tickets, you’ll find three classes of sleeper cabins:
- Spalny Vagon (1st class): These are the most comfortable, with just two beds in a private compartment.
- Kupe (2nd class): These are four-berth compartments, with two upper and two lower bunks.
- Platskartny (3rd class): These are open-plan, six-berth compartments, which are less private but more social.
Step Four: Budgeting for Your Journey
Your budget will depend on the type of class you choose and how many stops you make. A good estimate is around $1,000 for tickets, food, and accommodation.
For example, a kupe ticket from Moscow to Vladivostok could cost around $900, while a platskartny ticket might be just $360. First-class tickets can cost up to $1,800. If you choose to break your trip into several legs (say, stopping in Yekaterinburg and Irkutsk), expect to spend a bit more—around $1,130 for a kupe ticket.
Look out for deals on tickets. Russian Railways sometimes offers discounts of up to 50% if you book well in advance, but there’s usually a penalty for last-minute bookings.
What to Expect on the Train
When I first boarded the train, I felt a bit out of place—everyone around me seemed to know exactly what they were doing. But by the time I was a few days into my trip, I felt like a pro. Here’s what you can expect:
- Toilets: There’s a toilet at each end of the carriage. They’re usually locked during station stops and border crossings, but they’re kept surprisingly clean and stocked with toilet paper (though it’s always a good idea to bring your own).
- Food and Water: There’s a samovar with boiling water on board, so you can fill up your own water bottle. Food is available for purchase in the dining car, but it can be overpriced. Bringing your own snacks is a good idea for long journeys.
- Electronics: Charging outlets are available in the hallways, and some newer carriages have plugs in the compartments. Most trains also have fold-down seats where you can sit and charge your devices.
During my journey, I shared my compartment with a mix of people—from businessmen and babushkas to a girls’ volleyball team. Everyone had their own routine, and despite the language barrier, most people were friendly and willing to chat. The train ride turned out to be a great way to meet locals and experience life on the road in Russia.
By the end of my trip, I was exhausted but incredibly satisfied. I had seen more of Russia in one month than many Russians see in a lifetime, and I was left with unforgettable memories.
Traveling on the Trans-Siberian Railway is an adventure like no other, and I hope this guide helps you plan your own journey!
