Full Steam Ahead: Discovering Russia by Train – An Austrians Manual

Train Travel in Russia

Exploring Russia by train promises an adventure you’ll never forget, especially if you’re coming from Austria. Russia’s sprawling countryside, with its dramatic backdrops, offers train rides that capture both the nation’s rich past and its stunning natural scenes. So whether you’re up for a legendary rail escapade or just zipping between cities, Russia’s got you covered.

Iconic Rail Journeys

Russian trains aren’t just about getting from point A to B—they’re about the journey itself. At the heart of it all is the famous Trans-Siberian Railway. This monster track stretches 9,289 kilometers, from Moscow to Vladivostok—oh yes, the longest on planet Earth (Russian Trains). Think diverse cabin choices and stops in cool cities like Perm, Novosibirsk, and Irkutsk, all while skimming past the breathtaking Lake Baikal.

Next up, step it up with some vintage glamour on the Red Arrow train. On its nightly journey from St. Petersburg to Moscow, you’re in for luxuries like posh pillows, hot showers, and a swanky dining carriage. Departing just a tick before midnight, this train lets you snooze in style, offering everything from VIP to cozy 4-bed and 2-bed cabins (Russian Rail).

If speed’s more your thing, consider the Sapsan train— a modern speedster slicing through the Moscow to St. Petersburg trip in under 4 hours. It’s decked out with Wi-Fi, plug sockets, and heck, even a conference room, making it a top pick for both work and play (Russian Rail).

And for those eyeing Helsinki, hop on the Allegro train. Sprinting between St. Petersburg and Helsinki in just around 3 hours, it’s all about convenience. Think services like onboard passport controls and a dining area whipping up made-to-order treats. Enjoy some online browsing with the free Wi-Fi and let the kids have a ball in their playroom, as Mother Nature speeds by your window (Russian Rail).

Quick Inter-City Trips

Russia’s equipped with a nifty network of trains for nipping between cities faster than you can say Caviar! Check out these routes:

• Moscow to St. Petersburg: Zooming in on a Sapsan train, you’re there in under 4 hours, sitting comfortably with quick service and internet access for those short adventures or visits.
• St. Petersburg to Helsinki: Allegro whisks you off in about 3 hours. It’s efficient travel with lots of perks on the train.
• Moscow to Nizhny Novgorod: High-speed trains handle this dash in just about 4 hours, perfect when you’re mixing business with your trips or just in for some leisure.

Choose the right train for your Russian romp. For the nitty-gritty on tickets, check our guide on how to book train travel tickets in Russia from Austria and discover top train travel packages in Russia for Austrian tourists. Don’t miss out on our train travel tips for Austrians touring Russia—ready, set, travel!

Trans-Siberian Adventure

Moscow to Vladivostok Route

Buckle up for a legendary ride from Moscow to the mighty Vladivostok on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Stretching 9,289 kilometers (about 5,771 miles) long, this line is the longest in the world. It was put together between 1890 and 1916, thanks to the Russian Tsars Alexander III and Nicholas II. Get ready for an epic six-day journey on the Rossiya Trans-Siberian Express. You’ll travel through a mix of historic places, tranquil countryside, and natural wonders.

Highlights Along the Way

The Trans-Siberian isn’t just a train ride—it’s a feast for your eyes and soul. Here are some must-sees:

Perm

This city is chilling on the banks of the Kama River, an industrial heavyweight with a love for culture. It’s where you head to if you’re interested in checking out the Ural Mountains, various museums, theatres, and parks.

Novosibirsk

Siberia’s biggest city is all about energy, with a cultural scene that pops and architecture that harks back to the Soviet era. Don’t leave without catching a show at the colossal Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre.

Irkutsk

Known as the “Paris of Siberia,” Irkutsk flaunts lovely wooden architecture and is just a stone’s throw from Lake Baikal. This lake is not only mind-blowingly deep but also the oldest freshwater lake on Earth.

Lake Baikal

This bad boy is a high point on the journey. Feast your eyes on jaw-dropping views or dive into hiking and fishing amid a UNESCO World Heritage environment brimful of fascinating flora and fauna.

Vladivostok

End your grand rail adventure in Vladivostok, a bustling port city where Russia meets Asia. Check out the Vladivostok Fortress and catch spectacular views over the Pacific Ocean from Eagle’s Nest Hill.

Here’s a handy table for the highlights:

As you discover these amazing spots, you’ll get a true sense of Russia’s vastness and variety. For more tips and tricks on train routes in Russia for Austrians, check out our guide.

And don’t miss out on booking tips for your journey in our piece on how to book train travel tickets in Russia from Austria and why not explore top train travel packages for Austrians to make your trek smooth and easy?

Popular Train Options

Taking a train trip through Russia is like opening up a magical storybook. For Austrian travellers wanting this adventure, there are a couple trains that really stand out: the Red Arrow and the Rossiya Trans-Siberian Express.

Red Arrow Train Experience

All aboard the Red Arrow train! This beauty zips you from St. Petersburg to Moscow on a stunning overnight journey. The train’s been spinning its wheels since 1931, leaving each night at 11:59, and offers different levels of comfort, like VIP cabins, 4-bed cabins, and 2-bed cabins (Russian Rail).

It’s not just a train; it’s a slice of luxury on rails. You get plush pillows, a refreshing shower, and dining that’ll make ya feel like a royal. If you’re all about that high-life travel with a dollop of history, then this ride is a no-brainer. Sound interesting? Have a peek at the best train routes in Russia for Austrians to see why this one’s a must.

Rossiya Trans-Siberian Express

Now let’s talk about the Rossiya Trans-Siberian Express: it’s the stuff of legends. This train drags you from Moscow to Vladivostok in a whopping 6 days, taking you right through Russia’s belly (Russian Rail).

Forget the fancy frills of the Red Arrow, this baby’s all about solid and neat features. Think about sipping tea with fellow wanderers and tossing back some vodka shots with the locals. Perfect for folks craving the real Russian vibe.

Check out how to book train tickets in Russia from Austria for step-by-step info on snagging your spot on these unforgettable rides.

If chucking yourself into a Russian rail adventure sounds like your kind of gig, you can’t go wrong with either the Red Arrow or Rossiya. These trains offer experiences as different as jeans and a tuxedo, catering to just about every vibe you might have. Plus, don’t skip out on train travel tips for Austrians touring Russia to smooth out any bumps on your trip.

Safety and Etiquette Tips

When wandering through Russia by train, keeping an eye on safety and cultural manners will make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Here’s the lowdown for our friends from Austria.

Protecting Yourself

Traveling to new places is exciting, but a little caution goes a long way. Here’s how you can keep your trip trouble-free and fun:

• Guard Your Stuff: Don’t let your passport or phone grow legs and wander off! Stuff like passports, money and gadgets deserve a cosy, safe spot. A money belt or a special anti-theft bag might just become your new travel buddy.
• Keep Your Eyes Peeled: Be alert and wise to your whereabouts. Dimly lit, quiet corners are best left alone, especially when it’s late.
• Travel Insurance: An all-in-one travel insurance can save the day if unexpected trouble knocks. Think medical surprises, lost treasures, or any wild bumps along the way.
• Local Lifelines: Note down your embassy or consulate’s details. They’re your go-to folks if things get a bit hairy.

Cultural Norms to Follow

Embracing customs opens doors and builds warm friendships with locals. Here’s how to walk the walk in Russia:

• Greetings: Forget “Guten Tag” for a moment. In Russia, a smile paired with a simple “Здравствуйте” (zdravstvuyte) can score good points. No need for the formal act we Austrians love, but politeness is always welcomed.
• Shoes Off Indoors: As you walk into a Russian home, shoes come off and indoor slippers go on. It’s a house rule, showing you care about keeping their floors spotless.
• Public Manners: Gazing deep into a stranger’s eyes or random grins? Might be odd or even perceived as rude here. Stick to familiar territory with your smiles.
• Lingo Leg Up: While English chat is pretty common, tossing in a “Здравствуйте” (zdravstvuyte) or two could charm the socks off locals. It’s the little things that often make a big difference.
• Social Etiquette: Bright hellos and goodbyes are great in Austria, but in Russia, a sprinkle of reservation does wonders, especially with brand new folks or formal company.

Bear these tips in mind, and your Russian rail adventure should be a treat. For those planning every detail, peek at our guide on best train travel routes in Russia for Austrians. You can also find out how to book train travel tickets in Russia from Austria and explore top train travel packages in Russia for Austrian tourists. Enjoy your ride!