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Moscow – Vladivostok

Trans-Siberian Express Eastbound

• Golden Eagle

MOSCOW – KAZAN – YEKATERINBURG – NOVOSIBIRSK – IRKUTSK – LAKE BAIKAL – ULAN UDE – ULAAN BAATAR – VLADIVOSTOK

Please note all Trans-Siberian and Trans-Mongolian departures have been suspended indefinitely due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and the international sanctions that have been subsequently placed on Russia.

Undoubtedly the world’s greatest railway journey, the Trans-Siberian Railway runs like a steel ribbon across mysterious Russia connecting east and west from Moscow over the Urals, across the magnificent and endless steppe and alongside the shore of the world’s largest freshwater lake.

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Day 1 moscow.

Arrive at Moscow Airport, where you are met and transferred to the stylish five-star Four Seasons Hotel Moscow. Located in the historic building of Moskva Hotel and occupying one of the most enviable addresses in the very heart of Moscow, the hotel is a short walk from the Kremlin, Red Square and the Bolshoi Theatre.

On your first evening in Moscow you will be invited to a champagne drinks reception before our exclusive Welcome Dinner. Specially selected international wines are included with dinner, as with all meals during the tour.

DAY 2 Moscow

Our touring programme of Russia’s capital takes us to the grandeur of the Kremlin – the spiritual, historical and political heart of Moscow – and to see the treasures of the Tsars in the Armoury Chamber where we will enjoy an exclusive private viewing.

Our exploration of the city continues with a visit to Red Square, the iconic symbol of Russia’s former military and political might with its eclectic mix of fascinating architecture. Here we visit the ornate St Basil’s Cathedral’s magnificent onion-domed spires and marvel at the beautiful façade of the world-famous GUM department store which was constructed in Tsarist times.

Lunch is served in Café Pushkin, a legendary Moscow restaurant with a décor that revives the atmosphere of an early 19th century mansion and serves traditional Russian cuisine. An essential part of any visit to Moscow is a tour of the opulent and unique stations of the Moscow metro – showpieces of Socialist art furnished with statues, frescoes and mosaics, unsurpassed anywhere in the world.

If you have been to Moscow before we offer an included Freedom of Choice touring programme where we show you other sights of Moscow such as the famous State Tretyakov Gallery (National Museum of Fine Art) or the Space Museum (all subject to opening times).

Upon arrival at Moscow Kazansky Station in the late afternoon, you will be greeted in the ornately decorated Imperial Waiting Room with a cold glass of Russian Champagne and canapes as you mix with the other guests and are welcomed by the train staff. The excitement in the waiting room audibly mounts and, 30 minutes before departure, your car attendants will escort you to Platform 1 where the Golden Eagle awaits ready for departure.

DAY 3 Kazan

Situated on the River Volga, the picturesque and historic city of Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan. Here we see for ourselves its rich tapestry of history and culture. One of the highlights of this city tour is our exploration of the Kremlin Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the walls of this ancient citadel we will explore the stunning mosque and picture-perfect onion-domed cathedral.

As Kazan is the birthplace of one of Russia’s most famous opera singers, Feodor Chaliapin (1873-1938), we honour his memory with a private concert of his music. You will also have time to wander through the main pedestrian area of Kazan and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city.

DAY 4 Yekaterinburg

ounded in 1723 by Peter the Great, Yekaterinburg is the capital of the Urals. Known as the Great Divide, the Ural Mountains create the natural border between Europe and Asia so that the cultural and architectural influences of European and Asian civilisations come together in this fascinating and cosmopolitan landscape. Our city tour takes us to the poignant site where the Romanov, Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, was executed with his family by the Bolsheviks in 1918 following 78 days of imprisonment. Now a church dedicated to their memory, this site provides us with a powerful insight into the turmoil of the Russian Revolution. We will also drive to the obelisk marking the geographical border can drink a glass of champagne with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia.

Time permitting, our Freedom of Choice programme features a visit to the recently opened Museum of Military Machinery. The museum houses an amazing collection of different types of military hardware including tanks, aircraft, boats and even armoured trains. The museum is a real treat for anyone with an interest in the Soviet past, unparalleled by anything else along the route. Alternatively, we will make a short stop at the Boris Yeltsin Presidential Centre, recently opened in Yekaterinburg, which is dedicated to the contemporary political history of Russia and its first president.

DAY 5 Novosibirsk

A modern ‘Soviet’ city, we experience the life and character of Novosibirsk’s rich culture where the arts and science predominate. The city is located in the heart of Russia and is situated on both banks of the River Ob. Our city tour takes us to Lenin Square where the imposing Opera House is located. An architectural marvel, it houses two permanent ballet and opera companies and is one of the largest opera houses in the world. In front of the Opera House, we visit an impressive statue of Lenin – a marvellous opportunity to have your photograph taken with this iconic political leader.

Time permitting, south of the city we will visit Novosibirsk’s excellent Railway Museum. The museum displays locomotives and rolling stock from the late 1800s, including carriages of the Tsars, through to the Soviet era. Alternatively, as part of our Freedom of Choice programme, you may choose to visit the Mineralogical Centre with its fine display of Siberian minerals.

DAY 6 On Board

A day to unwind and reflect on the many sights and sounds we have experienced on our journey so far.

Chat to your fellow passengers, perhaps learn a few words of Russian or simply enjoy the ever-changing landscape outside your window as it unfolds.

DAY 7 Irkutsk

Our visit to Irkutsk, the ‘Paris of Siberia’, takes in the most significant sites and museums in this fascinating city, including an exploration of the classic wooden architecture with its intricately carved lace-like decorations that has given many of this region’s buildings such a distinctive and unique appearance. We also visit the Volkonsky House Museum, which is dedicated to the memory of the aristocrats who were exiled to this remote outpost after the failed Decembrists uprising of 1825. We recreate the atmosphere of that time with a champagne reception and private concert.

You could learn to cook some traditional Russian dishes with a local chef and prepare your own lunch with our Freedom of Choice option. Or you might also wish to visit a traditional Russian Dacha (summer house) to get an insight into the everyday life of an average Russian family.

Please note: Freedom of Choice touring options may be subject to variations dependent on finalised train timings and local weather conditions.

DAY 8 Lake Baikal

Few natural sights can surpass the beauty and grandeur of Lake Baikal, a major highlight on our Trans-Siberian journey. Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and holds 20 per cent of the world’s freshwater. Also known as the ‘Pearl of Siberia’, it is home to a unique breed of freshwater seal and over 50 species of fish including omul. For five hours we wind our way through tunnels along cliff hugging tracks above the lake. With a vista of snow-capped peaks along the far shore forming a picture-perfect backdrop, we gain a full appreciation of the engineering achievement which produced this part of the railway in the early twentieth century. To add to the grandeur of the day our Golden Eagle train will be hauled by a Soviet Era steam locomotive on this beautiful section of line. There will be plenty of opportunities to take photographs as the train winds its way along the lake.

Weather permitting, we stop in an extremely picturesque location by the lake for photographic opportunities. For the brave hearted, there is time for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear and ice-cold waters of Baikal. Travelling onwards to the end of the Baikal branch line, we leave the train and travel by boat on the lake to Listvyanka, a small Baikal settlement nestling at the base of the surrounding hills and visit the Lake Baikal Museum and Aquarium where you can learn about the flora and fauna of the lake.

We will enjoy a delicious barbecue prepared by our own chefs, including freshly smoked omul fish, in the delightful covered dining area on the shore of Lake Baikal to complete a memorable day.

As part of our Freedom of Choice excursion programme you can choose a hiking opportunity up Chersky Mount or you can choose to take the chair lift, which offers some spectacular and panoramic hillside views of the grandeur of the lake below.

DAY 9 Ulan Ude

The ethnic and cultural diversity of Ulan Ude, the capital of the Buryat Republic, offers a unique insight into its heritage. As we tour the area you will notice the different faces of these welcoming Buryat people.

During our exploration of the Old Believers’ Village we have the opportunity to learn about the culture and history of these religious people as we are treated to a concert featuring local traditions and folk singing.

DAY 10 Ulaan Baatar

Our Trans-Siberian adventure takes us into Mongolia and a visit to its capital, Ulaan Baatar. Mongolia, once the very centre of an enormous empire led by Genghis Khan, is a country of beautiful landscapes and nomadic people, rich in culture and history. Mongolia is famous for its endless green Steppes, grazing livestock and white, nomadic Gers (Yurts) dotted across the countryside.

We start the tour at Gandan Monastery, one of Mongolia’s most important Buddhist Monasteries housing a community of over 500 monks. The full name, Gandantegchinlen, translates as ‘the great place of complete joy’. At Chinggis Square (formerly Sukhbaatar Square) we can see the central monument to Genghis Khan, undoubtedly the most feared and revered Mongol. We then drive out of the city to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park and enjoy the beautiful scenery of wild Mongolia, having the opportunity to visit a traditional Ger and meet a nomadic family or try our hand at horse-riding, an intrinsic part of Mongolian life.

Alternatively, there is an option to stay in the city as part of our Freedom of Choice touring. After Gandan Monastery and Chinggis Square we visit the National Museum where we learn about the country’s intriguing history. We will also see Bogd Khan Winter Palace Museum, the winter residences of Bogd Khan, the last Mongolian emperor, built between 1893 and 1903.

We can also explore the city and have some free time for shopping for Mongolian souvenirs and their specialty cashmere. We will also enjoy a performance of traditional Mongolian throat singing and contortionists.

Please note, depending on final timings provided by the railway authorities we may substitute the railway journey from Russia into Ulaan Baatar with a private jet charter from Irkutsk or Ulan Ude so that we can maintain the advertised programme for Mongolia.  This will be advised to you in your final documentation.

DAY 11  On Board

Enjoy a more leisurely pace today as we travel through the beautiful landscape of the Russian Far East.

You may wish to attend one of the interesting lectures or Russian language lessons.

DAY 12  On Board

It’s the perfect opportunity to practice your Russian or simply relax as our journey today follows the Shilka and Amur rivers, close to the Chinese border.

Enjoy Russia at its most dramatic and remote, as the Golden Eagle eats up the miles on our way to Vladivostok.

DAY 13  On Board

Passing directly north of Seoul, Darwin and Osaka, we spend our last full day on board the Golden Eagle today as the most easterly point of this mammoth journey is reached passing through Khabarovsk, where we cross the River Amur.

Tonight we enjoy our final dinner on board our private train that has been our home for the last twelve days as we approach our final destination on this unforgettable journey.

DAY 14  Vladivostok

Vladivostok is a military port located on the western shores of the Sea of Japan and is home to the Russian Navy’s Pacific Fleet. Due to its military importance, the city was closed to foreigners between 1930 and 1992. Vladivostok (literally translated as ‘Ruler of the East’) offers visitors an interesting opportunity to explore its principal military attractions including a visit to a preserved World War Two submarine. Our city tour will also take us to the iconic suspension bridge over Golden Horn Bay, one of the largest of its kind worldwide, which opened in 2012 for the APEC conference.

This evening you are invited to our farewell dinner. Specially selected international wines are included with dinner, as with all meals during the tour. Our hotel in Vladivostok, where we stay for one night, is the five-star Lotte Hotel Vladivostok.

DAY 15  Vladivostok

Following breakfast, spend the remaining time in Vladivostok at your leisure, followed by your transfer which will take you to the airport to begin the return flight home.

Tour Inclusions

Accommodation.

• Five-star pre and post tour accommodation
• Private en-suite accommodation on the Golden Eagle train
• 24-hour cabin attendant service
• Experienced Tour Management team
• Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
• Arrival and departure transfers
• All gratuities – on and off the train
• Luggage porterage throughout the journey
• Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
• Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
• Generous drinks allowance, including international wines with lunch and dinner
• Golden Eagle Gala Caviar dinner
• 14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 14 Dinners
• Expertly guided off-train excursions as detailed in the itinerary
• Freedom of Choice touring options

Tour Highlights

• Champagne reception on departure with a military brass band performance
• Private viewing of the Kremlin armoury in Moscow
• Soviet-era steam locomotive haulage at Lake Baikal
• Barbecue on the shores of Lake Baikal, plus the opportunity to swim in its ice-cold waters
• See Mongolia’s three national sports in action in a mini-Naadam showcase
• Authentic performances showcasing traditional Russian and Mongolian culture

GOLDEN EAGLE

The Golden Eagle, comprising three categories of cabins, featuring state-of-the-art amenities and en-suite facilities, is the only private train of its kind operating in these regions of the world.

All prices are per person

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From China, Mongolia and Russia with love: Join Joanna Lumley’s Trans-Siberian Adventure

British actor and activist Joanna Lumley takes one of the world’s most celebrated train journeys across Asia and Europe.

Watch Joanna Lumley's Trans-Siberian Adventure and more acclaimed documentaries on BBC Select today. Restrictions apply*.

Joanna Lumley's Trans-Siberian Adventure on BBC Select

Activist, actor and adventurer Joanna Lumley last visited the Soviet Union on a modelling job in 1966. Fast forward almost 50 years and she finds herself back in the USSR on a romantic railway trip which takes her from Hong Kong to Moscow via China and Mongolia in this BBC Select travel documentary.

This epic train journey takes Joanna from east to west on a journey of nearly 6,000 miles, as she revels in a rich panorama of vistas, people and places and explores three very different superpowers steeped in fascinating history and centuries of radical change.

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A Trans-Mongolian adventure: riding the rails from Moscow to Beijing

Oct 5, 2017 • 6 min read

Lake Baikal is one of the most popular destinations along the Trans-Mongolian route © Katvic / Shutterstock

Click-clacking along the tracks for thousands of kilometres, getting a glimpse into some of the most intriguing places on earth – it’s easy to understand why the Trans-Siberian Railway is right up there as one of the world’s most dreamed about train rides. There are several routes to choose from when deciding on your itinerary, but the Trans-Mongolian is arguably the standout one.

Crossing three vast countries, each as fascinating as the next, the train trundles through the seemingly endless birch forests of Russia , skirting impressive Lake Baikal and the wilds of the Siberian taiga, into an entirely different world of steppes dotted with gers (traditional yurts) and the stark Gobi Desert in Mongolia , before nature makes way for the urban landscape and skyscrapers of Beijing .

You can make this epic journey in either direction, starting or ending in Moscow or Beijing. Here we outline the route starting from Moscow. The train follows the Trans-Siberian Railway until Ulan-Ude, where it splits off and takes the Trans-Mongolian route. All up, the journey from Moscow to Beijing takes six nights and five days, spanning 7826km. While you can do the trip direct, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Mongolia. If you plan to do stopovers, this has to be pre-arranged and tickets organised accordingly.

Moscow to Ulaanbaatar

This part is the crux of the journey. Starting from Moscow’s Yaroslavsky station, you travel through Russia for five nights and four days before arriving in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital. If time is on your side, there are plenty of towns to break the journey. If you opt for a direct trip, you’ll only see the stations as you stop for usually 15 to 30 minutes – enough time to restock on water and instant noodles or local snacks on the platform, take some photos, stretch your legs and hop back on.

For the most part, you’ll be staring at vast birch forests (which has quite a meditative effect when coupled with the swaying train), drinking lots of tea or vodka, reading, playing cards, and chatting to other travellers and locals on the train. The final day brings a well-deserved change of scenery – just as you start to get a bit delirious from endless rows of the spindly trees, you’ll be twisting your neck from left to right to see mountains on one side of the train and the glistening Lake Baikal on the other. And the next landscape change, on arrival in Mongolia, is nothing short of surreal.

The train departs at 11:55pm from Moscow. If this is your first sleeper train, you might get little shut-eye the first night as your body is jerked around a bit (it takes some time getting used to). If you wake bleary-eyed from a restless night, don’t stress – you have nothing to do but sit back and stare at the forests of Russia whirring past, remembering how to pass the time without the internet. There are a few station stops throughout the day; you can stretch your legs for 15 to 20 minutes at each one.

More birch trees roll past as you start to settle into the rhythm of train life. In the afternoon, the train stops in the Siberian town of Omsk, known as the place where Dostoevsky was exiled back in 1849. You’ll have roughly 20 minutes, so you can hop off and take a look at the Lenin statue in front of the station.

Time zones start to get a bit disorienting. The main stop is at Irkutsk early in the morning (local time) for 45 minutes, while people hop on and off. Irkutsk is a great base for visiting Lake Baikal, 70km southeast of the town, and it’s the most popular Siberian stop on the journey, not only for its proximity to the lake but also for its historical architecture, museums and churches.

Say goodbye to those birch trees: day four offers the best scenery of the entire trip when Lake Baikal , the largest freshwater lake in the world, comes into view on one side and mountains on the other. The train twists around some tight turns near the lake and skirts the edge just metres away, so you can take some great photos.

Next, get ready for your first border crossing. The train stops at Ulan-Ude for about 45 minutes, then later in the day crosses the border at Naushiki. There are some scary stories about Russian officials and border crossings on the Trans-Mongolian, but generally it should be quite straightforward with professional and efficient staff. (Note that the toilets will be closed during the crossing, which can last for hours.) The Russian dining car is changed over for the Mongolian one, which is quite impressive with its wooden carving features.

Wake bright and early and pull up your cabin blind to witness a dramatic change in scenery as you get your first look at Mongolia – rolling hills, wild horses dashing along with the train and nomad gers spread out along the open steppe. The train stops at Ulaanbaatar early in the morning for 45 minutes. This is one stopover you don't want to miss. Spend a couple of days in the capital checking out some of the  museums and taking a break from cup noodles and Russian bliny (pancakes) to enjoy Buddhist vegetarian cuisine or feast on khorkhog (Mongolian lamb cooked on hot stones). If you have more time, get out into the countryside, staying in gers, interacting with locals, trying out yak milk and horse trekking for days.

Ulaanbaatar to Beijing

The train departs Ulaanbaatar early in the morning and reaches Beijing mid-morning the next day. This is the final leg of the trip and you’ll no doubt start to feel both anxious to get off and melancholy that it’s about to end. Crossing from Mongolia into China is no fun, unless you’re a train-mechanics fan. Mongolian and Chinese railroads have different track gauges, so all the bogies must be changed in a painstaking process that takes hours late at night and requires passengers to stay on the train. You may be allowed to get off once your passports have been checked, and you can grab some food near the station – if you’re still awake! The Mongolian dining car is also replaced with the Chinese one, and you’re served a set Chinese breakfast in the morning before alighting the train.

This leg of the journey crosses the Gobi Desert , and you’ll get a brief insight into this harsh environment. As you cross into China, there’s another surprise shift in the scenery as huge gorges come into sight. Then, before you know it, you’re whizzing past packed station platforms, endless apartment buildings and into the frenetic pace of Beijing, feeling fortunate to have experienced this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Make it happen

Planning the Trans-Mongolian trip as an independent traveller is a bit of a logistical nightmare, but it can definitely be done with some good organisation. Otherwise you can use an agency to do it for you, such as Real Russia who are highly recommended and provide excellent support. For more practical tips, see our feature How to pack for the Trans-Siberian Railway .

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