Trans-Siberian Express with Exeter International

The Golden Eagle is the finest train travelling through Russia, Crimea, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Mongolia, and features four routes, including the classic Trans Siberian and Silk Route. The train provides an oasis at the end of a day’s sightseeing.

On board are two beautifully appointed restaurant cars serving meals using local ingredients. Meals are complemented by wines from around the world, as well as – naturally – vodka.

The social heart of the train is the bar car, a great place to relax and settle into the unhurried pace of life on board. Unwind in comfortable surroundings and watch the world go by as you get to know your fellow passengers which are usually a very international mix.

Classic Train Travel - The Itinerary

The construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway began in 1891, and a year later the Tsarevitch Nicholas (later Nicholas II) laid the first stone of the eastern station in Vladivostok, Russia. When it was completed in 1916 the track was almost six thousand miles long, it covered over one third of the globe, and passed through eight time zones. The train was famous for its five-course French meals, and its glamorous passengers.

You will experience the beauty of Siberia and mystical Lake Baikal and the historical towns outside of the main centres of Moscow and St Petersburg. The route starts in Moscow, and passes through Yaroslavl on the Volga, Exaterinburg in the Urals, Irkutsk near Russia’s Lake Baikal’s southern extremity, Khabarovsk and Vladivostok.

Day 1 MOSCOW

Arrive at Moscow airport, where you are met and transferred to the luxurious five-star Marriott Royal Aurora hotel located in the heart of this vibrant city for a one-night stay. We enjoy a welcome reception dinner at our hotel, whilst you meet your fellow travellers and anticipate the epic 15 day voyage that lies ahead.

Day 2 MOSCOW

Our morning city tour of Moscow principally takes us to Red Square, an iconic symbol of Russia’s former military and political might. Here we see an eclectic mix of fascinating architecture, such as the ornate St Basil’s Cathedral with its magnificent onion-domed spires, the grandeur of The Kremlin and the sombre and evocative site of Lenin’s tomb. Early afternoon sees us boarding the luxurious Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express. After settling into our modern, stylish cabins, we enjoy dinner in one of the beautifully designed restaurant cars as our rail adventure eastwards to Vladivostok begins.

Day 3 KAZAN

We arrive at the picturesque and historic city of Kazan by mid-morning. Situated on the River Volga, Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan. Here we have the opportunity to 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 its stunning mosque and onion-domed cathedral. After enjoying a relaxing dinner on the Golden Eagle, you may wish to retire to our welcoming bar car where you can enjoy drinks with new friends whilst listening to our resident pianist.

Day 4 YEKATERINBURG

We cross the Europe/Asia divide before arriving in the historic city of Yekaterinburg. Founded in 1723 by Peter the Great, the third largest Russian city is also the capital of the Urals. 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, Nicholas II of Russia was executed with his family by the Bolsheviks in 1918. Now a church dedicated to their memory, this site provides us with a powerful insight into the turmoil of the Russian Revolution.

Day 5 NOVOSIBIRSK

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

Day 6 ONBOARD

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

We arrive in Irkutsk, the ‘Paris of Siberia’, and our visit today takes in the most significant sites and museums in this fascinating city, including an exploration of the classic wooden architecture that has given many of this region’s buildings such a distinctive and unique appearance. Next, we visit the Decembrist House museum which is dedicated to the memory of the exiled aristocrats who were forced to flee to this remote outpost after the failed revolution of 1825. Here we enjoy a private concert before returning to our waiting train for dinner.

Day 8 LAKE BAIKAL

Few natural sights can surpass the beauty and grandeur of Lake Baikal. 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. Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and holds 20% of the world’s freshwater. Also known as the ‘Pearl of Siberia’ it is home to a unique breed of freshwater seal and over fifty species of fish including omul which we will be serving in the dining car for some of our meals. Weather permitting, we stop at one of Baikal’s picturesque and secluded bays to enjoy a delicious BBQ including freshly smoked fish prepared by our own chefs. For the brave hearted, there is even time for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters. In the afternoon, we visit Listvyanka, a small Baikal settlement nestling at the base of the surrounding hills.

Day 9 ULAN UDE

This morning we arrive in Ulan Ude, capital of the Buryat Republic. The ethnic and cultural diversity of this area offers a unique insight into its heritage. As we tour the area you will notice the different faces and dress styles of these welcoming 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 traditional meal and enjoy a concert featuring local dancers and musicians.

Day 10 ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA

Our Trans-Siberian adventure takes us into Mongolia, home of Genghis Khan, undoubtedly the most feared and revered Mongol and we visit the capital city of Ulaan Baatar. Lunch is taken Mongol style in a traditional Ger (Yurt) where we experience an authentic meal, enjoying excellent local dishes and entertainment providing a unique opportunity to encounter this time-honoured nomadic way of life. We board the train in time for dinner as we head back into Russia.

Day 11 ONBOARD

Enjoy a more leisurely pace today as we travel through the beautiful landscape of the Russian Far East. You may like to attend one of the interesting lectures or Russian language lessons.

Day 12 ONBOARD

It is 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 ONBOARD

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 our mammoth journey is reached passing through Khabarovsk, where we cross the River Amur. Tonight, we enjoy our final dinner onboard 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

After travelling through 8 time zones and covering an amazing 6,600 miles (10,600km) along this epic route to the end of the Trans-Siberian line, the Golden Eagle pulls into Vladivostok, a military port located on the western shores of the Sea of Japan. Vladivostok (literally translated as ‘Ruler of the East’) offers visitors an exciting opportunity to explore its principal military attractions including a tour of a restored submarine before we transfer to the centrally located four-star Hotel Hyundai. The final evening is spent saying our goodbyes to our fellow travelling companions and friends at the Farewell Dinner.

Day 15 VLADIVOSTOK

Following breakfast, you will be transferred to Vladivostok airport to begin your journey home.

Accommodation

Moscow

One (1) night at the Marriott Aurora or similar; Tax and Buffet Breakfast included daily.

Golden Eagle, Trans Siberian Express

One Cabin for Twelve (12) nights on board the Golden Eagle Trans Siberian Express.

Vladivostok

One (1) night at the Hotel Hyundai or similar; Tax and Buffet Breakfast included daily.

Tickets

All museum tickets as described in the programme.

Transfers

All transfers to and from airports are included in the programme.

Experienced Tour Managers

Experienced tour managers and their assistants are selected for their travel knowledge and organisational abilities allowing you to relax and enjoy your voyage of a lifetime.

Welcome and Farewell Dinners

On Board Service

Throughout your tour you can expect service which is attentive, friendly and unobtrusive. The high ratio of staff to passengers means there is always someone available should you need assistance.

Guided Off-Train Excursions

All touring services are operated by and arranged by GW Travel and touring is with other train guests. All tours include a wide-ranging sightseeing schedule to make the most of the time you have off the train and bring you closer to the culture, people and history of your destinations.

Personal Headsets

On all the off–train excursions, to enhance your enjoyment and comprehension of the places you visit, you will be provided with a lightweight personal headset on which to listen to your tour guide as you take in the sights. So you do not need to worry about missing any of the interesting details on your excursions.

On Board Doctor and Medical Facilities

To give you peace of mind the tours are accompanied by a doctor who travels with us for the entire journey; so you can rest assured that medical assistance is always available. On call 24 hours a day, the doctor is on hand to give primary care as required. Normally, the doctor will be English speaking and be registered with the General Medical Council in the UK.

24 Hour Service Attendant

Your car attendants provide 24-hour housekeeping and bedding turndown services, with one attendant always on duty to assist you and to ensure you are comfortable in your cabin. Complimentary tea, coffee and bottled drinking water are available in your cabin 24 hours a day.

Porterage

Porterage is included between the hotels and stations.

All gratuities

All gratuities are included in the tour price.

Not Included

Flights

Will be quoted for separately.

Visas

A visa is required for entry into Russia & Mongolia. Please note that your passport will have to be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of travel and you will need to have three blank pages available.

Optional Expenses

Charges for extra meals, transport, sightseeing services or other optional additions to your established itinerary are your responsibility and must be paid locally in the local currency.

Insurance

It is a booking condition that every passenger holds a valid travel insurance for the entire duration of the trip.

The Cabins

All cabin types include complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water.

GOLD CLASS

With five cabins per carriage, Gold Class is the Premier Class on board, with drinks from the bar included as part of your amenities, (standard brands) plus a full bathroom en suite.

77 sq ft (7 sq metres)

Sleeps 2 in either lower standard (4ft 6) double bed or bunk style

Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating

Recessed lighting and wardrobe

Personal safe

Private en-suite bathroom with full power shower and underfloor heating

DVD/CD player with LCD screens

SILVER CLASS

With 6 cabins per carriage Silver Class have a slightly smaller cabin, bar drinks are not included and bathrooms have combined facilities.

60 sq ft (5.5 sq metres)

Sleeps 2 in lower small double bed (4ft) or bunk style

Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating

Recessed lighting and wardrobe

Personal safe

Private en-suite bathroom with ‘wet-room’ style shower and toilet

DVD/CD player with LCD screens

HERITAGE CLASS

With eight cabins to a carriage and shower and toilet facilites shared at the end of the carriage.

39 sq ft (3.6 sq metres)

Sleeps 2 in bunk style

Remote controlled air-conditioning and heating

Recessed lighting and wardrobe

Washbasin

Itinerary avaliable in reverse on selected dates:

21 May - June 4

August 11 - August 25

September 8 - September 22

For more information please call us on 020 8956 2756 or email us at enquiries@exeterinternational.co.uk