Journey on the legendary Trans-Siberian route – one of the world’s greatest travel adventures. From Beijing to Moscow, across the Gobi Desert and Mongolian Steppes, through Siberia, this is an unforgettable experience.
- UK/Beijing - 1 to 2
After flying to Beijing, arriving on Day 2, relax at your comfortable hotel, home for the next two nights. In the afternoon visit Tian an Men Square, and experience the tranquillity of the Temple of Heaven.
- The Great Wall - 3
Walk along the historic ramparts of the Great Wall which winds like an immense dragon through the hills of northern China. Discover treasures of the Ming Tombs and stroll along the Sacred Way. Dine on delicious Peking Duck at one of Beijing’s renowned restaurants tonight.
- The Forbidden City & Overnight Train - 4
Explore the courtyards and pavilions of the mysterious Forbidden City from where imperial dynasties once ruled. This evening your rail adventure begins when you board a modern Chinese train for the overnight journey to the Mongolian border.
- The Gobi Desert - 5
As you journey through China watch as rural life unfolds, donkeys draw carts along dusty roads and oxen turn waterwheels. At noon arrive at the Chinese-Mongolian border. Explore the colourful market at 1Erlian before boarding The Tsar’s Gold private train and you start your journey through the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert and onto the great steppes of Mongolia.
- Ulaanbaatar - 6
Arrive in Ulaanbaatar this morning for an overnight stay in the city. The mountains that surround this colourful capital hint at the thrilling landscape beyond. Start your exploration with a visit to the Choijin Lama Temple. An evening folklore performance introduces you to traditional Mongolian music and dance.
- Ulaanbaatar - 7
Discover the Gandan Monastery and visit the railroad museum which puts the Mongolian railway in context. Travel out to unique mountain landscape and meet a nomadic family, visit a yurt and watch a demonstration of Mongolian horsemanship and a traditional wrestling match, the brave can even try the ’beer of the nomads’, fermented mare’s milk.
- Ulan Ude - 8
Bid farewell to the Mongolian steppes and roll on through the valley of the mighty River Selenga. At Ulan Ude the train joins the main route of the Trans-Siberian Railroad. Stroll through the city streets or join a guided tour.
- Lake Baikal - 9
Travel through soaring mountains and evergreen forests along the shores of Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world. Travel along the ancient closed rail track of the original rail route along its shores. There will be time for a visit to a charming Baikal village and a dip in the cool waters. Enjoy a wonderful lakeside picnic dinner (weather permitting) before re-boarding the train for the overnight journey to Irkutsk.
- Irkutsk - 10
The train pulls into Irkutsk this morning. Join a city tour and see traditional wooden houses and Orthodox churches, visit the drama theatre and admire the newly erected statue of the Tsar. Siberian life of an earlier era is revealed with a visit to the open-air museum. Explore a local village and take a short cruise for a different perspective of Lake Baikal. Stay in a city hotel tonight.
- Across Siberia - 11
Re-join the train and spend a relaxing day as you journey through the mountainous landscape of eastern Siberia. Talks on the history of the area will entertain and a traditional Russian get- together with a tasting of caviar and vodka sets the mood for the evening.
- Novosibirsk - 12
The melodic rhythms of the balalaika accompany a welcome of bread and salt as you arrive in Novosibirsk. Explore the oldest areas of the city and the lively market. Re-board the train for the overnight journey to Ekaterinburg.
- Ekaterinburg - 13
Capital of the Ural Mountains, Ekaterinburg marks the border between Asia and Europe, and is famous for the Church of Blood built on the spot where Tsar Nicholas II and members of his family were executed. A short exploration of the city is included. Your journey by rail continues as you travel on into Europe.
- Kazan - 14
The old Tartar capital of Kazan is the destination today and a visit to the historic Kremlin reveals a turbulent and bloody past, hear tales of violent battles between Tartars, Cossacks and Russians. Take a cruise on the Volga with an included lunch. Board the train for a final evening of hospitality and the overnight journey to Moscow.
- Moscow - 15
Your spectacular rail adventure ends this morning in Moscow, one of the world’s most dynamic cities, where you spend one night. Explore the Kremlin with its glorious cathedrals and discover jaw dropping treasures in the Armoury. Take a magical evening tour, ride the Metro to two of Moscow’s most beautiful stations and stand in atmospheric Red Square.
- Moscow/UK - 16
More of the city is revealed today. Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and see the New Virgin Monastery. Revisit Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral and discover the former location of the notorious KGB before your flight back to the UK.
All rooms feature private facilities, air-conditioning, telephone and TV. Hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar.
All rooms feature private facilities, air-conditioning, telephone and TV. Hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar.
This hotel enjoys a location overlooking the Angara River. Facilities include a bar and restaurant. Guest rooms all have private facilities, TV and telephone.
This modern, recently refurbished hotel is located close to the heart of Moscow’s attractions. Hotel amenities include a selection of bars and restaurants as well as a gym with large indoor swimming pool. The comfortable guest rooms all have private facilities, TV, telephone and air-conditioning
